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Celebrating The Life & Legacy Of Wayne Lewis – The Voice Behind Atlantic Starr

AJ Woodson
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Celebrating The Life & Legacy Of Wayne Lewis – The Voice Behind Atlantic Starr

You cannot talk about soulful, timeless R&B music without mentioning the name Atlantic Starr, best known for their hits like, Always – The romantic ballad that became a signature track for the band, Secret Lovers – that popular and upbeat song that showcases their signature sound, Circles – The catchy and memorable song that gained significant popularity and Silver Shadow – A soulful and atmospheric song that highlights their instrumental skills. The group’s founding member, Wayne Lewis, has died at the age of 68. The band confirmed his passing in a social media post on Friday (June 7), noting that the musician died on Thursday. No cause of death has been disclosed.

“It’s with great sadness we have to post the passing of Wayne Lewis on June 5, 2025,” Atlantic Starr wrote on Facebook. “Please keep the family in your prayers and respect their privacy #waynelewis #restinpeace #flyhigh Sunrise 4/13/1957 Sunset 6/5/2025 #restinpeaceWayne.”

Lewis served as a vocalist and keyboardist for Atlantic Starr, which he co-founded in 1976 in Greenburgh, N.Y., alongside his brothers David Lewis (vocals, guitar) and Jonathan Lewis (keyboards, trombone), as well as drummer Porter Carroll Jr., bassist Clifford Archer, and percussionist-flutist Joseph Phillips. Other early members included lead singer Sharon Bryant, trumpeter William Sudderth III, and saxophonist Damon Rentie. Bryant and Rentie were later replaced by Barbara Weathers and Koran Daniels, respectively.

“To Our Atlantic Starr Family and Our Global Facebook Family,

On behalf of my immediate family, I want to extend my deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to each of you who have shared such love, respect, and beautiful memories about my beloved brother Wayne.
The outpouring has been overwhelming—a wave of comfort and compassion that truly feels like a God-sent tsunami, surrounding us with a peace that surpasses all understanding. I can’t explain it, but maybe that’s what happens when a life filled with love is poured out—it comes back in a ferociously beautiful current. Wayne wrote a song when he was about 10 years old called “You’re Beautiful.” In it, he said: “It’s truly beautiful to be important, but it’s more important to be beautiful.” That was Wayne. Beautiful in heart, spirit, and purpose.

He will forever be remembered not only as a gifted composer, producer, artist, and performer—but as someone who simply lived to make another person’s life “better.” Isn’t that our purpose, family? Yes. Yes, it is. Please continue to keep us in your prayers, and remember that Wayne loved and cherished each and every one of you. Wayne, you completed your mission. Your family—spread across the world—is heartbroken, but also deeply grateful that God loved us enough to give us a gift called YOU,” David Lewis shared on Facebook.

“Greenburgh and the world is mourning the passing of Wayne Lewis – a Greenburgh legend and founder of Atlantic Starr,” Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner shared. As Joseph Boykin said in a Facebook post, Wayne was part of a “group filled with super talented, beautiful human beings. His gift was immense, writing, producing, playing, and entertaining and thrilling fans and audiences all over the world. He loved to spread love with the music he blessed us with.”

On Sunday, April 2, 2017, Wayne appeared on Black Westchester Magazine presents The People Before Politics Radio Show Episode 119 to chop it up with host Damon. K. Jones & AJ Woodson and Co-Host Dr. Robert Baskerville about Atlantic Starr’s album Metamorphosis, the Unsung Documentary, local politics, and their upcoming CD Release party and street renaming.

Wayne and Jonathan Lewis of Atlantic Starr came back to People Before Politics Radio again with their younger brother Steven Lewis on Sunday, September 29, 2018

“Rest in power, my brother. You represent God, your family, and the Greenburgh community. It was an honor to call you a brother,” BW Publisher Damon K. Jones, who grew up in Greenburgh, shared. On the show, Damon described hearing the group on the radio for the first time and what they meant to Greenburgh.

Atlantic Starr Honorary Street Naming Ceremony

On Monday, June 5, 2017 from 6:00 to 8:00pm, a held a program Greenburgh Town Hall, 177 Hillside Avenue, White Plains/Greenburgh, NY, 10607 to honor original and current members of Atlantic Starr with a commemorative street sign to be placed along Old Tarrytown Road at the intersections of Hillside Avenue, Manhattan Avenue and Knollwood Road. Students from the Woodlands High School Jazz Band and the Bailey Elementary School Chorus performed, along with other local music and spoken word artists. The street commemorative signs were approved at a Town Board meeting earlier. Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner, Council members Ken Jones, Francis Sheehan, Diana Juettner and Kevin Morgan unanimously voted to approve the street sign designation.

SAMPLE THIS, SAMPLE THAT

Sampling, a core component of hip-hop, involves incorporating snippets of existing music or sounds into a new composition. It’s a technique where artists reuse audio, often from records, to create fresh beats, melodic phrases, or vocal samples. Sampling has played a significant role in hip-hop’s development, allowing for innovation, repurposing of existing sounds, and even creating new narratives.

In my book, “We Got Our Own Thang – A Look At Hip-Hop From The 914,” I showed the great contributions artists from Westchester made to R&B and Hip-Hop, including Greenburgh’s own Atlantic Starr. Our brother Wayne Lewis’ voice lives on not only through his original recordings but continues to live through the next few generations through the artists that sampled them. See a list of tracks I found that sampled Greenburgh’s own Atlantic Starr.

SECRET LOVERS (1985)
I’m Goin Back by Jadakiss feat. Nesha (2004) – Multiple Elements
The Way We Live by Noreaga feat. Chico DeBarge (1998) -Vocals / Lyrics
Problems by Next feat. Koffee Brown (1997) – Vocals / Lyrics
Love in This Club, Part II by Usher feat. Beyoncé & Lil Wayne (2008) – Hook / Riff

LET’S GET CLOSER (1982)
Nobody Does It Better by Nate Dogg feat Warren G (1998) – Multiple Elements
A+Z by A+ feat. AZ (1996) – Hook / Riff
I’ve Changed by Jaheim feat. Keyshia Cole (2007) – Multiple Elements
Closer Than Close by Nipsey Hussle (2008) – Multiple Elements
Closer Than Close by Luniz feat. Dru Down (2002) – Multiple Elements
Let’s Get Closer by Bow Wow (2011) – Multiple Elements
Closer Than Most by French Montana (2009) – Multiple Elements
The Hard Part by Joe Budden (2011) – Multiple Elements
My Arms Are the Brooklyn Bridge by Lil B (2012) – Multiple Elements
Closer Than Friends by Domino and Mo (2006) – Vocals / Lyrics

SECOND TO NONE (1983)
Street Life by Mic Geronimo feat. Monifah (1997) – Multiple Elements
2nd to None by Dolla Boy feat Tity Boi & Raekwon (2007) – Multiple Elements

ALWAYS (1987)
Dead Bent by MF DOOM (1997) – Vocals / Lyrics
Reality Used to Be a Friend of Mine by P.M. Dawn (1991) – Multiple Elements
4 Ever by Method Man feat. Megan Rochell (2006) – Vocals / Lyrics

AM I DREAMING (1980)
Am I Dreaming by Wale (2005) – Multiple Elements
Throw Some D’s (Cookin’ Soul Remix) by Cookin’ Soul (2008) – Multiple Elements

ALL IN THE NAME OF LOVE (1987)
The M.I.C. by MF DOOM (1998) – Hook / Riff

TOUCH A FOUR LEAF CLOVER (1983)
Life on the Line by AZ (2007) – Multiple Elements
4 Leaf Clover by Erykah Badu (1997)

SEND FOR ME (1980)
Shame – by Tyrese (2015) – Vocals / Lyrics
Bladey Mae Beat 47 by 9th Wonder (2013) – Multiple Elements

WHEN LOVE CALLS (1980)
Willing & Waiting by Mary J. Blige (2003) – Multiple Elements

MYSTERY GIRL (1980)
Double Shots by Mobb Deep feat. Big Noyd (2003) – Multiple Elements

Wayne Lewis may no longer be with us in physical form, but through his timeless music, he will live forever.

Funeral Arrangements for Greenburgh’s beloved Wayne Lewis from the internationally acclaimed group “Atlantic Starr” will be held on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at Woodlands High School, 475 Hartsdale Avenue, Hartsdale, NY

              •            11:00 AM – Viewing

              •            1:00 PM – Funeral Service

              •            Repass to follow immediately in the school gymnasium

Black Westchester offers our sincerest condolences and prayers to all his family, friends, fans, and all the lives he touched. He was a true Black Westchester Legend!

Bishop C. Nathan Edwers Backs Mastrogiorgio, Wallace, and Judge Davis in Powerful Father’s Day Call to Action

DAMON K JONES
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Bishop C. Nathan Edwers Backs Mastrogiorgio, Wallace, and Judge Davis in Powerful Father’s Day Call to Action

What began as a Sunday service at Friendship Worship Center turned into a bold political and spiritual charge, as Archbishop C. Nathan Edwers used the Father’s Day platform to endorse three prominent local candidates: retired Police Lieutenant and former PBA President Nicholas Mastrogiorgio, former Mayor André Wallace, and sitting Mount Vernon City Court Judge Peter Davis.

Opening with a sobering truth — “One in three Black men will be incarcerated in their lifetime, compared to one in seventeen white men” — Bishop Edwers reminded the congregation that their silence at the ballot box equates to consent. “We’ve been taught to hate ourselves,” Edwers shared with the congregation. “But it’s a new day. And we thank God for this new day.”

Bishop Edwers emphasized the urgency of supporting male leadership in local government. “I’m not casting shade, I love the ladies,” he said, “but we need some men on that council. If all three women win, we’ll be left with just one man. That’s not balance.”

Nick Mastrogiorgio, a lifelong Mount Vernon resident, former police officer, and union president, spoke of his commitment to bridging gaps between law enforcement and the community. “Instead of sitting back and complaining, I stood up,” Mastrogiogio said. “I was the first union president to reach out to the United Black Clergy. We need unity again in Mount Vernon.”

André Wallace, former mayor, former city councilman, and longtime businessman, addressed what he sees as a fight for the city’s soul. “They’ve removed my face from campaign posters,” Wallace warned. “Developers are spending hundreds of thousands to block me because I know where the money is and what they’re trying to do. Our city is over half a billion dollars in debt. They want our land, and they’re trying to sell us out.”

Judge Peter Davis, a 31-year legal veteran and current city court judge, cautioned against overlooking qualified male judicial leadership. “If I’m voted out, there will be no full-time male judges left in Mount Vernon. You don’t see me often because most of you don’t end up in court — and that’s a good thing. But I’ve served, prosecuted, defended, and done hundreds of pro bono cases for this community.”

He concluded with a spiritual moment, referencing a tragic plane crash in India with only one survivor, seated in 11A — the same seat number listed on his ballot line. “I got chills,” Judge Davis continued. “We are survivors. I am a survivor. And I’m here to keep serving.”

Bishop Edwers closed with a reminder that inclusion must go both ways. “We don’t want to repeat the mistake of excluding women. But we also don’t want to be excluded. Let’s be one people — Black, brown, white, yellow — working together to build a safe, strong, and united Mount Vernon.”

Is Trump Betraying His Base by Joining Israel’s War with Iran?

DAMON K JONES
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Is Trump Betraying His Base by Joining Israel’s War with Iran?

Donald J. Trump built his political brand on a bold promise: no new wars. It was more than a talking point — it was a rejection of the neoconservative playbook that dragged America into costly, endless entanglements in Iraq and Afghanistan. From the moment he launched his 2016 campaign, Trump positioned himself as a peacemaker, a disruptor of the military-industrial complex, and the president who would bring our troops home. In 2024, that promise was renewed and amplified. He told his base he would stay out of Ukraine, avoid World War III, and stop funding other people’s battles.

But now, in the face of escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, that promise is under pressure — and many of Trump’s most loyal supporters are wondering if he’s about to break the very deal that got him elected.

A Subtle Shift — Or a Sudden Betrayal?

Recent reports confirm that Trump has approved strike plans for Iran’s nuclear facilities, even as he stops short of authorizing direct military action. The Fordow enrichment site, buried deep under Iran’s mountains, is being reviewed as a possible target. Meanwhile, Trump’s rhetoric has taken a sharp turn. His demand that Iran accept “unconditional surrender” echoes the Bush-era bravado that once led America into a trillion-dollar quagmire in Iraq — a war Trump himself condemned.

To be clear: Iran is not a saintly regime. It funds terror, suppresses its people, and has repeatedly vowed to destroy Israel. But the question isn’t whether Iran is dangerous. The question is whether military intervention by the United States is necessary, justified, or wise — and whether it violates Trump’s covenant with the voters who put him back in the White House.

The MAGA Dilemma

Among Trump’s America First base, the idea of joining another foreign war — especially one on behalf of another nation — is a red line. Steve Bannon, one of the ideological architects of the movement, recently warned that escalating military action would “tear the soul out of MAGA.” Many veterans, nationalists, and working-class voters who supported Trump didn’t do so out of love for political theater. They did it because he promised to put America first — not Israel, not NATO, not Saudi Arabia.

And let’s be real: Israel has the most powerful military in the region, nuclear weapons, and overwhelming U.S. financial support. If they choose to strike Iran, that’s their call. But why should American troops, American tax dollars, and American credibility be put on the line?

From Peacemaker to Warmonger?

If Trump greenlights a U.S. strike on Iran, he will join the same club he once denounced: Bush, Cheney, and the interventionist wing of the Republican Party. And no matter how strategic or “limited” the strike may seem, the consequences could be catastrophic — from retaliatory attacks on U.S. embassies and oil infrastructure, to another generation of wounded veterans and wasted treasure.

The betrayal wouldn’t just be political. It would be moral and generational. It would tell every young American who believed in his anti-war message that the swamp won again.

The Choice Ahead

Trump still has a choice. He can double down on diplomacy, remind the world that peace through strength doesn’t require bombs, and stand firm on the principles that made him an outsider. Or he can join the globalist chorus, strike Iran, and become the very thing he warned us about.

His base is watching. History is watching. And if he breaks this promise, it won’t be forgotten.

SGA & The Oklahoma City Thunder Poised to Make History

DAMON K JONES
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SGA & The Oklahoma City Thunder Poised to Make History

In a series that has defied expectations, the Oklahoma City Thunder are now just one win away from etching their names into the NBA record books, and capturing their first championship in franchise history. Holding a 3-2 series lead over the Indiana Pacers, the Thunder have leveraged youth, speed, and chemistry to overpower their more experienced opponents. Game 5 saw breakout performances from Jalen Williams, who dropped 40 points, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who added 31, as OKC cruised to a blowout win.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) is also on the cusp of making NBA history. With a potential NBA Finals win and Finals MVP, he could join a very exclusive club of players who have won both the regular season MVP and Finals MVP in the same year. The three-time NBA All-Star and three-time All-NBA First Team member could become the first player since LeBron James in 2013 to win both the regular season MVP and Finals MVP in the same year. This would also solidify his place as the greatest player in Thunder history, surpassing Russell Westbrook, making him the first player in Thunder history to lead the franchise to an NBA title, further cementing his legacy. 

Furthermore, winning the Finals would make him only the fourth player to achieve a scoring title, MVP, and hoisting the Larry O’Brien trophy in the same season, alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 1971, Shaquille O’Neal in 2000, and Michael Jordan four times, in 1991, 1992, 1996, and 1998. 

SGA continues to make history with the torrid NBA Finals series he’s been having, scoring-wise. This was the fourth game of this year’s Finals in which he scored 30 or more, but on Monday, he didn’t just fill up the scoring column. He also added 10 assists, two steals, and four blocks, and in so doing, he became just the fourth player in the history of the NBA Finals to record at least 30 points, 10 assists, two steals and two blocks in a single game, joining LeBron James, Michael Jordan, and Jimmy Butler in that exclusive club (according to StatMuse)

Led by head coach Mark Daigneault, this Thunder team has built its identity on unselfish basketball and aggressive defense. With role players like Chet Holmgren, Lu Dort, and Isaiah Joe stepping up on both ends of the floor, the Thunder have emerged as one of the most balanced teams in the league. The front office’s long-term vision, executed through the draft and player development, has culminated in this defining moment.

 Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams have done more than lead Oklahoma City to the brink of the Thunder’s first NBA championship. They have scored their way into elite company, ranking among the most prolific tandems in Finals history. Through the first five games against the Indiana Pacers, Gilgeous-Alexander (32.4 ppg) and Williams (25.8) have combined for 58.2 points. That ranks 10th all-time for the most points per game by a pair of teammates, with at least one game left to climb or slip on that list. The Thunder hold a 3-2 lead over the Indiana Pacers in these NBA Finals heading into Game 6 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse Thursday (8:30 p.m. ET, ABC). A potential Game 7 would be played Sunday in Oklahoma City.

The Pacers, however, are not going down without a fight. Star guard Tyrese Haliburton is listed as questionable for Game 6 with a calf strain, but insiders say he’s pushing hard to play. With Indiana hosting the next game, the energy at Gainbridge Fieldhouse is expected to be electric. Pacers big man Myles Turner has vowed to bring a physical edge, while Benedict Mathurin could provide the scoring punch needed to extend the series. Whether the Thunder can rise above the noise and close the series—or whether the Pacers will force a Game 7—remains to be seen. Either way, fans are witnessing the dawn of a new era in NBA basketball.

BOE Commissioner Set Record Straight On Accusations Of Ignoring Complaints About Kenneth Plummers Residency

AJ Woodson
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BOE Commissioner Set Record Straight On Accusations Of Ignoring Complaints About Kenneth Plummers Residency

On June 17th, Black Westchester Publisher, “Two separate complaints—one dated February 28, 2025, and another on June 12, 2025—have been submitted to the Westchester County Board of Elections and local Democratic officials, yet neither has received a response. The February letter detailed allegations that Plummer no longer resides at his claimed address of 14–16 Martens Place in Mount Vernon and has not lived there for several years. The more recent June letter included a text message from Plummer himself, in which he clearly admits that he and his wife do not live in Mount Vernon. Despite this written admission, Democratic leadership has failed to take any action or even acknowledge receipt of the complaints,” in his column From The Publisher’s Desk, titled What Is The Democratic Party Hiding” Kenny Plummer Case Ignored Despite Evidence & Legal Precedent.

On Wednesday, June 18th, at around 4:43 PM, BOE Democratic Election Commissioner Tajian Nelson contacted Black Westchester to rectify the situation and make things clear. First thing is the accusation of not responding to the February 28th and June 12th complaints that were emailed to her.

Commissioner Nelson shared with Black Westchester her responses. To the February 28, 2025, email, Nelson responded a little over two weeks later on Monday, March 17, 2025, 12:37 PM and furnished Black Westchester with the email. To the June 12, 2025, email, while there was no response before the BW Publisher wrote his editorial on June 17th (5 days after the email), Ms. Nelson did respond on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, 11:59 AM. Commissioner Nelson shared with Black Westchester that she received the email 5 days before the editorial was written and hadn’t had a chance to respond yet.

“The Board is under no specific timeline to respond to you, as this was not a FOIL request, which would have required a response to you within 5 business days,” Commissioner Nelson stated in the June 18th response. In both emails, Commissioner Nelson responded,

Please be advised that NYS Election Law does not allow the Board of Elections to arbitrarily cancel or change a voter’s registration status.  Please see below the NYS Election Law §5-220 regarding registration challenges.  I am attaching the post-registration challenge affidavit form for your completion.  Once our office has received a properly completed form, we will proceed with an investigation regarding Kenneth Plummer’s registration status.  After the investigation is concluded, if the findings determine that Mr. Plummer does not reside at his address in the City of Mount Vernon, the Board per NYS Election Law will proceed with the cancellation of his registration at that address.    

NYS Election Law §5-220. Registration; challenge after registered

1. Any person may challenge the registration of a voter by executing and delivering to the board of elections or a board taking registrations his affidavit that he had reason to believe that such voter’s registration should be cancelled. Such affidavit shall contain the affiant’s full name, residence, and business address, the name of his employer, the registration serial number of the person challenged and a recital of the reasons and the facts supporting affiant’s belief that the person challenged lacks the qualifications for voting prescribed in this chapter and specified in such affidavit. The affidavit shall state if the reasons for challenge are based upon the affiant’s personal knowledge or upon information received from another person. If the affiant’s belief is based upon information furnished by another, the affidavit shall recite the name of the person furnishing the information and the basis for his information. After the affiant has signed such affidavit a member of such board shall read to him and request him to sign the following oath, which shall be subscribed by such affiant: ‘‘I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that the foregoing statement made by me on (insert day, month and year) is a truthful disclosure of the reasons for my belief that the registered voter therein named is not qualified to continue to be registered in the election district in which he is now registered.’’ If the affiant shall take and sign such oath, the members of the board shall sign their names as witnesses below the affiant’s subscription to such oath. Each such affidavit shall be directed toward the challenge of only one registrant. The board shall give full assistance to any person desiring to execute such an affidavit. The board of elections shall furnish the necessary forms. Upon receipt of such affidavit, the board of elections forthwith shall conduct an investigation of the voter’s qualifications to remain registered in the same manner as provided for applications for personal registration by mail. Any person whose registration is so challenged shall be notified thereof by the board of elections by registered or certified mail within five days after the affidavit is received by it.

2.  If the board of elections cannot complete its investigation, or cannot make a determination before the next election at which the registrant could vote, it shall place his name on a challenge list as a person to be challenged when voting.

It is beyond the purview of the Board to intercede in matters relating to Mr. Plummer’s status as a County Committee member “aka” District Leader in the City of Mount Vernon. Additionally, please note you will have to address that matter directly with the Mount Vernon Democratic City Committee leadership.

I am also providing the section of the NYS Election law and additional information as it relates to eligibility for a County Committee member “aka” District leader.  

According to NYS Election Law Section 2-104(1) of the New York State Election Law “Each member of a county committee shall be an enrolled voter of the party residing in the county and the assembly district from which or in the assembly district containing the election district in which such member is elected.”  Therefore, a County Committee member is not required to live in the same municipality where they reside but can be a County Committee member in any municipality that includes their Assembly District. Sincerely, Commissioner Tajian Nelson

In the same email thread, it shows that Mount Vernon Democratic City (MVDCC) Chair Mary Graves also responded to the June 12th email three days later on Sunday, June 15, 2025, stating: In receipt of your letter regarding Kenny Plummer. My understanding your inquiry regarding Mr. Plummer’s residency would require a form to be filed with the Westchester County Board of Elections.  I suggest you call the Westchester County Board of Elections to find out the proper form required for any action to be taken. I am not familiar with which form is required; otherwise, I would tell you which form to ask for and submit.  

While I had Commissioner Nelson on the phone, I wanted clarification about Mr. Kenneth Plummer serving as an MVDCC District Leader but living in the City of White Plains. So since the City of Mount Vernon is in New York’s 89th State Assembly District and White Plains, NY is split between two New York State Assembly districts: Assembly District 88 and Assembly District 93, according to NYS Election Law Section 2-104(1) of the New York State Election Law,

“Each member of a county committee shall be an enrolled voter of the party residing in the county and the assembly district from which or in the assembly district containing the election district in which such member is elected.”  Therefore, a County Committee member is not required to live in the same municipality where they reside but can be a County Committee member in any municipality that includes their Assembly District.

So for the record, Kenneth Plummer does not reside in the same Assembly District, he is not qualified to be a District Leader in the City of Mount Vernon. Anyone can challenge his residency, and here is the process

You must go to the Westchester County Board of Elections, located at 25 Quarropas St Unit 1, White Plains, and fill out the Post-Registration Challenge Affidavit New York State Election Law § 5-220 form (see below)

After filling out the affidavit in person it has to be signed following taking an oath: ‘‘I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that the foregoing statement made by me on (insert day, month and year) is a truthful disclosure of the reasons for my belief that the registered voter therein named is not qualified to continue to be registered in the election district in which he is now registered.’’

After the affiant shall take and sign such oath, the members of the board shall sign their names as witness. Again ANYONE can go to the BOE and make a formal complaint in person by filling out the above form.

Once that is done, “we will proceed with an investigation regarding Kenneth Plummer’s registration status.  After the investigation is concluded, if the findings determine that Mr. Plummer does not reside at his address in the City of Mount Vernon, the Board per NYS Election Law will proceed with the cancellation of his registration at that address,” Commissioner Nelson shared with Black Westchester.   

Fleetwood Citizen Society Mount Vernon City Court Judge Candidate Forum

AJ Woodson
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Fleetwood Citizen Society Mount Vernon City Court Judge Candidate Forum

The Fleetwood Citizen Society (FCS) in collaboration with the Chester Hill Neighbors Association and the Fleetwood Neighborhood Association, held a candidate forum for the Mount Vernon City Court Judge candidates at the Portuguese American Club (130 Prospect Avenue) on Tuesday, June 17th. Candidates Danielle R. Browne and Peter Davis were each given 5 minutes to tell residents why they were the candidate they should vote for, and then answered a few questions from the audience (see video below).

Also, check out Black Westchester presents People Before Politics Radio special Virtual Judicial Candidate Forum, on Sunday, June 1, 2025.

Also, check out the 2025 WESTCHESTER UNOFFICIAL PRIMARY CANDIDATE LIST, 2025 EARLY VOTING SCHEDULES AND LOCATIONS, the Fleetwood Citizens Society Mount Vernon Comptroller Debate and Mount Vernon City Council Debate at the Portuguese American Club, and if you missed it or haven’t seen the latest newspaper, check out the digital edition.

Get Up, Get Out & VOTE!!!

Politics is a participatory sport, do not just complain, do your part and get out and VOTE!!!

To support the Black Westchester, which provides the News With The Black Point Of view and gives you the real talk for the community for free, donate via PayPal. In the words of Ray Charles, “One of these days, and it [might not be] long, You’re gonna look for [us], and [we’ll] be gone.” Support independent, Black-owned, Free Media! At Black Westchester, we always put People Before Politics!

As always, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube

Contributions and Donations can be made via PayPal.

Fleetwood Citizens Society Mount Vernon Comptroller Debate

AJ Woodson
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0
Fleetwood Citizens Society Mount Vernon Comptroller Debate

The Fleetwood Citizen Society (FCS), in collaboration with the Chester Hill Neighbors Association and the Fleetwood Neighborhood Association, held a candidate forum for the Mount Vernon City Council candidates at the Portuguese American Club (130 Prospect Avenue) on Wednesday, June 18th.

The Mount Vernon Comptroller candidates Darren M. Morton and Benjamin A. Montgomery participated and answered questions from the moderators. Below is a video of the debate, posted so you can hear from all the candidates and make informed decisions at the ballot box!!!

This was a follow-up to the FCS Mount Vernon City Council Candidate Debate the night before.

To support the Black Westchester, which provides the News With The Black Point Of view and gives you the real talk for the community for free, donate via PayPal. In the words of Ray Charles, “One of these days, and it [might not be] long, You’re gonna look for [us], and [we’ll] be gone.” Support independent, Black-owned, Free Media! At Black Westchester, we always put People Before Politics!

As always, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube

Contributions and Donations can be made via PayPal.

Also, check out the 2025 WESTCHESTER UNOFFICIAL PRIMARY CANDIDATE LIST, 2025 EARLY VOTING SCHEDULES AND LOCATIONS, and if you missed it or haven’t seen the latest newspaper, check out the digital edition.

Get Up, Get Out & VOTE!!!

Politics is a participatory sport, do not just complain, do your part and get out and VOTE!!!

Fleetwood Citizen Society MV City Council Debate at the Portuguese American Club

AJ Woodson
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0
Fleetwood Citizen Society MV City Council Debate at the Portuguese American Club

The Fleetwood Citizen Society (FCS) in collaboration with the Chester Hill Neighbors Association and the Fleetwood Neighborhood Association, held a candidate forum for the Mount Vernon City Council candidates at the Portuguese American Club (130 Prospect Avenue) on Tuesday, June 17th. The debate was moderated by Karen Dockery and Mitzi Ambrose Washington, with timekeeping duties being handled by Karen Scacchi

All seven council candidates, Andre D. Wallace, Cathlin B. Gleason, Tanesia M. Walters, Nicholas Mastrogiorgio, Bill A. Schwartz, Elvira M. Castillo, and Cynthia A. Turnquest, participated and answered questions from the moderators and those in attendance. Below is a video of the debate, posted so you can hear from all the candidates and make informed decisions at the ballot box!!!

This event will be followed by a debate on Wednesday, June 18th at 7 PM, featuring the Mount Vernon Comptroller candidates, Darren M. Morton and Benjamin A. Montgomery, and a candidate forum for the Mount Vernon City Court Judge candidates, Danielle R. Browne and Peter Davis, immediately following. Black Westchester will be streaming live once again on Facebook. This event will also be at the Portuguese American Club. Come out and hear from the candidates so you can make informed decisions at the ballot box.

To support the Black Westchester, which provides the News With The Black Point Of view and gives you the real talk for the community for free, donate via PayPal. In the words of Ray Charles, “One of these days, and it [might not be] long, You’re gonna look for [us], and [we’ll] be gone.” Support independent, Black-owned, Free Media! At Black Westchester, we always put People Before Politics!

As always, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube

Contributions and Donations can be made via PayPal.

Also, check out the 2025 WESTCHESTER UNOFFICIAL PRIMARY CANDIDATE LIST, 2025 EARLY VOTING SCHEDULES AND LOCATIONS, and if you missed it or haven’t seen the latest newspaper, check out the digital edition.

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What Is the Democratic Party Hiding? Kenny Plummer Case Ignored Despite Evidence and Legal Precedent

DAMON K JONES
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What Is the Democratic Party Hiding? Kenny Plummer Case Ignored Despite Evidence and Legal Precedent

Mount Vernon, NY — Mount Vernon Democratic District Leader Kenny Plummer is facing mounting allegations of residency fraud, political manipulation, and ethical misconduct—but despite multiple formal complaints and even a written admission from Plummer himself, the Democratic Party has remained silent. The question now: What are they hiding?

Two Formal Complaints, Zero Response

Two separate complaints—one dated February 28, 2025, and another on June 12, 2025—have been submitted to the Westchester County Board of Elections and local Democratic officials, yet neither has received a response. The February letter detailed allegations that Plummer no longer resides at his claimed address of 14–16 Martens Place in Mount Vernon and has not lived there for several years. The more recent June letter included a text message from Plummer himself, in which he clearly admits that he and his wife do not live in Mount Vernon.

Despite this written admission, Democratic leadership has failed to take any action or even acknowledge receipt of the complaints.

Clear Violation of New York State Election Law

Under New York State law, district leaders must reside in the districts they represent. This isn’t optional or symbolic—it’s a legal requirement. Residency is defined by domicile: your true, fixed, and permanent home. By continuing to hold office while living elsewhere, Plummer is not only violating party ethics—he is potentially violating state election law.

This isn’t speculation. The law is clear. And so is the precedent.

There Is Already Case Precedent: Chris Johnson

The case of former Westchester County Legislator Chris Johnson serves as a direct legal precedent. Johnson was forced to resign after it was determined that he no longer resided in the district he was elected to represent. The ruling was swift and decisive because the law left no room for ambiguity. If you don’t live where you serve, you are ineligible—period.

So why is Kenny Plummer still sitting in power?

Political Influence and Developer Deals

Adding to the concern is Plummer’s dual role as a registered lobbyist. According to the complaints, he has allegedly used his political influence to steer candidate endorsements and push developer-backed projects, raising serious ethical concerns. Several sources allege a “quid pro quo” arrangement where Plummer uses his power within the party to deliver favorable outcomes to developers in exchange for political support.

This creates a dangerous overlap between private interest and public power, especially in a city already struggling with gentrification, housing instability, and political distrust.

Adding to the concern is a potential conflict of interest within the local Democratic infrastructure itself. The current Mount Vernon City Committee Chair is also reportedly employed under the Westchester County Board of Elections Commissioner—the very office tasked with investigating election law violations. This dual role raises serious ethical questions: how can complaints against District Leader Kenny Plummer be handled impartially when the person responsible for party oversight may also answer professionally to the same system being challenged? It creates a dangerous overlap of political loyalty and administrative authority, where legitimate complaints can be ignored, buried, or quietly dismissed to protect internal interests. At minimum, this relationship undermines public trust and demands that all future complaints bypass internal party channels and be directed to independent authorities.

A Deafening Silence

The silence from Democratic officials—particularly from the Westchester County Board of Elections and Mount Vernon Democratic leadership—has become deafening. They have not responded to letters. They have not addressed the evidence. They have not clarified their position on whether Plummer should remain in office.

Their inaction sends a troubling message: that some political operatives are above the law if they serve the right interests.

If the Westchester County Board of Elections continues to ignore the complaints and documented evidence—including Kenny Plummer’s own written admission that he does not reside in Mount Vernon—then the responsibility to uphold the law must fall to the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office. The DA has a legal and ethical obligation to investigate potential violations of New York State Election Law, including voter fraud, false registration, and unlawful participation in party leadership under false pretenses. This is not a matter of political preference—it is a matter of protecting the public trust and ensuring that our democratic institutions operate under the rule of law. Allowing an individual to unlawfully hold political power while misrepresenting their legal residence not only corrupts the electoral process but also sets a dangerous precedent that erodes accountability at every level. When local oversight fails, the criminal justice system becomes the final line of defense for fair elections. The DA must act—not for politics, but for principle

And if the Westchester County District Attorney refuses to act—whether out of political caution or party loyalty—then this matter must escalate beyond county lines. All roads will then lead to U.S. Special Counsel Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice, whose job it is to uphold federal election integrity and investigate public corruption when local officials are compromised or unwilling to do so. This is bigger than Mount Vernon. When a political figure openly admits to violating election laws and yet faces no consequences, it becomes a federal issue—especially when that individual influences elections, candidate endorsements, and development deals tied to public policy. If local Democratic leaders and county prosecutors choose silence over accountability, they effectively become complicit. At that point, it becomes the duty of the Department of Justice to intervene and restore the rule of law where local enforcement has failed.

The Public Deserves Answers

Mount Vernon residents deserve leaders who play by the rules, not power brokers who manipulate the system. They deserve a party that protects the integrity of the process, not one that hides behind silence while clear violations go unaddressed.

The evidence has been presented. The legal precedent is established. Still, nothing is being done.

If local officials continue to ignore these violations, the next step will be to formally submit all documentation—including Plummer’s written admission—to the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for independent investigation.

This story is far from over. Black Westchester will continue to follow every development and hold every official accountable—no matter how high their position.

See BOE Commissioner Tajian Nelson Set Record Straight On Accusations Of Ignoring Complaints About Kenneth Plummer’s Residency

PBP Radio – Sunday, June 15, 2025 – Kenny Plummer, Relia Fogliano & What RISEUP Mount Vernon Represents

AJ Woodson
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PBP Radio – Sunday, June 15, 2025 – Kenny Plummer, Relia Fogliano & What RISEUP Mount Vernon Represents

Black Westchester recently reported on the questionable activities involving Kenny Plummer, developer Rella Fogliano, and the Political Action Committee Rise Up Mount Vernon. Our investigation uncovered a troubling pattern of political influence and financial maneuvering, including sizable developer donations funneled through party structures and PACs that appear designed to secure control over Mount Vernon elections. These activities raise serious concerns about transparency, conflicts of interest, and whether campaign finance laws are being deliberately circumvented to serve private development agendas under the guise of political progress. Sam Rivers joins Damon K. Jones & AJ Woodson to discuss Kenny Plummer, Relia Fogliano & What RISEUP Mount Vernon represents on this episode of Black Westchester presents The People Before Politics Radio Show

People Before Politics Radio, Giving You Real Talk For The Community Since 2014!

Black Westchester presents the People Before Politics Radio Show every Sunday night, 6-8 PM, simulcasting live on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube, and archived on BlackWestchester.com. Giving you that Real Talk For The Community since 2014.

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