Yonkers Insider: Statement from Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano.

 

Dear Neighbor,

This week, we made two big moves—one to protect a Yonkers gem, and one that proves the world is watching.

We finalized a land swap that clears the way for major upgrades at Untermyer Gardens, including restoring its historic features and improving access for everyone.

And if you watched "Severance" or "The Penguin," you saw Yonkers. Both shows—and a few others filmed right here—just scored Emmy nominations. Hollywood on Hudson is alive and well!

Have a great weekend!

MIKE SPANO

Mayor 

News from MPAC.

10th Annual Arab American Heritage Day Draws Hundreds in Celebration of Culture and Community

Hartsdale, New York — The 10th Annual Arab American Heritage Day took place on Sunday, July 20, bringing together nearly 300 attendees for an afternoon of vibrant celebration, cultural pride, and community connection.

Despite the warm weather, families, friends, and community members of all ages came out to enjoy a lively event filled with music, dancing, and laughter. The energy was palpable as guests experienced traditional performances, dazzling belly dancing, and a variety of delicious Arab cuisine and desserts all showcasing the richness and diversity of Arab culture.

“This milestone year was truly special,” John Khader president MPAC People and Communities said. “We’re so proud of how this event has grown over the past decade into a beloved tradition for our community.”

The success of this year’s event would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors and the dedication of participating vendors. Organizers extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped bring the celebration to life.

Yonkers Insider: Event: City of Yonkers Community Calendar.

Christine Peters

Yonkers Insider: US Congressman George Latimer 16th District: Rep. Latimer, Local Electeds Push Amtrak on Bronx Metro North Station Delay.

 

Rep. Latimer, Local Electeds Push Amtrak on Bronx Metro North Station Delay.

WHITE PLAINS, NY – Today Congressman George Latimer (NY-16) announced that he is pushing Amtrak for answers after it was reported yesterday that the four new Bronx Metro North stations will not be opened until 2028 at the earliest. The project will extend Metro North access to Penn Station. This is the third time this project has been delayed since breaking ground in 2022.

“This is an incredibly frustrating setback for many of my constituents who will greatly benefit from access to these stations. East side Metro North access will cut work commutes, open up new job opportunities, and increase economic development in the Bronx,” said Rep. Latimer. “Many of us who commute on Amtrak through Penn Station understand these benefits and how a new world would open up if Metro North ran to Penn Station. This project needs to get done.”

In the letter Rep. Latimer sent to Amtrak, he requests additional information for yet another delay to this critical project and what it will mean for the project’s future. When the project broke ground in 2022, Amtrak contributed $500 million to the project while also committing to pay delay costs if Amtrak was unable to meet its labor and outage commitments. In the letter Rep. Latimer cites that President Trump’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2026 cuts Amtrak’s budget by 25%, so any subsequent delay could have compounding consequences for the future of this project.

“I thank Congressman Latimer for his focus on this critical issue. The Penn Station Access project is one of the most transformational infrastructure investments our region has seen in decades. Residents along Westchester’s Sound Shore have waited far too long for equitable, efficient transit access. This delay is deeply disappointing, and I urge all partners—especially Amtrak and the MTA—to work together to accelerate the timeline. Establishing a one-seat ride into Penn Station is essential. The economic opportunity, improved healthcare access, and enhanced quality of life this project promises are simply too important to delay any further,” said Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins.

“Any derailments to the Metro-North Penn Access Project is absolutely unacceptable and cause for concern. This plan is a once-in-a-generation investment that will finally deliver the transit access, good-paying union jobs, and economic growth the East Bronx has been denied for far too long. The families of the East Bronx don’t just want this, they have waited long enough, and they deserve nothing less than all of us working together to move this project forward without further setbacks,” Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson.

"The delay of the Penn Station Access Project hampers equity, opportunity, and long-overdue investment in the East Bronx. Every delay deprives our communities of shorter commutes, access to good-paying jobs, and critical regional connections. The people of the Bronx have waited long enough. It is time for all stakeholders to treat this project with the urgency it deserves and deliver on the promises that were made," said State Senator Nathalia Fernandez.

"We represent several communities that are classified as ‘transportation deserts’, our constituents have some of the highest commute times in the City of New York, and they have been waiting for over a decade for these needed Metro-North stops to be constructed in the East Bronx. We need Amtrak to recognize these factors, and to immediately come to the table and work with the MTA and Metro North Railroad in a productive manner to reduce unneeded delays to this project," said Assemblyman Michael Benedetto.

“The continued delays to the Bronx Metro North stations are unacceptable. Our communities deserve reliable, timely access to public transportation that connects them to opportunity—not broken promises,” said Council Member Kevin C. Riley. “Expanding Metro North access in the Bronx is not just a transit issue, it’s a matter of economic and social equity. We stand with Congressman Latimer in calling for accountability and urgency from Amtrak to deliver the infrastructure our residents were promised,” Councilman Kevin Riley.

“Many New Rochelle residents commute on Metro North and will benefit from direct access to Penn Station. Each delay means lost time at work or with their families. I urge Amtrak and the MTA to work together to expedite the work needed and get this project back on track,” said New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert.

Yonkers Insider: Westchester County Legislator Shanae Williams 16th District running for relection.

Thank you to the Westchester Community College Federation of Teachers for your endorsement!

Higher education is of utmost importance to me and making sure that our teachers are properly supported so they can prepare the workforce of our future to be the best and brightest matters.

#endorsed #wccft #westchestercountyny #yonkersny

Yonkers Insider: News from A Better Yonkers GOP.

 

Thanks to your support, A Better Yonkers GOP has successfully secured over two dozen seats across the City & County Republican Committees. This milestone marks the beginning of a movement, one led by energized Young Republicans and committed grassroots leaders aimed at restoring our party’s strength and credibility in Yonkers and beyond.

Our mission is clear: end one-party rule, revitalize local Republican leadership, and ensure that Democrats are no longer left unchallenged. The days of complacency and financial mismanagement within our party are behind us.

 

In the spirit of unity, we’ve extended our hand to those who claim to want reconciliation. But unity cannot mean preserving the status quo. It’s time for those who have stalled our momentum for years to step aside so that true Republican candidates can rise and hold Democrats accountable, without interference from within our own ranks.

Stay tuned for details on our first official meeting and the launch of our Youth Sub-Committee, a bold step in building the next generation of GOP leadership.

 

Please Visit Us: https://www.abetteryonkersgop.com/

Sincerely,

Brandon J. Neider

Committee Member-Elect 

Westchester & Yonkers Republican Party

 

News from MPAC:

 

Arab American Heritage Day. The weather was warm, but that didn’t stop nearly 300 people from coming out to celebrate — children and adults of all ages, families, friends, and community members all joined together for an incredible night.

The atmosphere was full of energy, music, dancing, and laughter. From traditional performances and belly dancing to the amazing food and desserts, every part of the evening reflected the richness and beauty of Arab culture.

We are so proud of what this event has become over the past decade. And we couldn’t have done it without our generous sponsors and dedicated vendors. Thank you for helping us bring this celebration to life.

Yonkers Insider: General Election 2025: Race for Westchester County Executive.

The race for Westchester County Executive in the General Election in November is a rematch of the special election from February between Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and Republican Challenger Christine Sculti.

County Executive Jenkins defeated Christine Sculti in the special election to win the County Executive seat in Westchester County.

County Executive Jenkins has been a Westchester County Legislator, Deputy Westchester County Executive and former head of Yonkers NAACP and former head of the Yonkers Democratic City Committee as well. 

This is Christine Sculti third try for Westchester County Executive. She ran in 2021 for Westchester County Executive against County Executive George Latimer and ran in special election in February this year against Ken Jenkins for Westchester County Executive. 

Sculti has worked as an assistant to Former Yonkers Mayor Phil Amicone, an assistant under Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino and also was a Executive director for the Westchester County Republicans and She currently works as Deputy Commissioner at the Westchester County Board of Elections. 

We will keep our readers posted on the race for Westchester County Executive. 

Yonkers Insider Publisher Delfim Heusler 

Yonkers Insider: Letter from US Congressman George Latimer 16th District to Postmaster General.

 

Postmaster General Steiner:

 

I write to you with serious concerns regarding the closure of the Bronxville Post Office, as well as several other issues pertaining to poor conditions that have been reported at this location. I respectfully request that you provide answers to the questions below and urge you to take immediate action to remedy these issues that are affecting my constituents.

 

My office first received reports from constituents on July 17, 2025 that the Bronxville Post Office was closed with no explanation to residents or the Village of Bronxville. As a result, some of my constituents have been unable to receive important parcels, including medications, posing an immediate and unacceptable risk to their health. When my constituents inquired about this issue, they received a response that the Bronxville Post Office is closed and that the timeline for reopening is unknown.

 

I have also received reports regarding poor conditions at this location, posing risks to both USPS staff and patrons. At present, USPS staff and patrons must rely on two small portable fans to cool the front office and lobby areas. This temporary solution is inadequate during the hot summer months, when indoor temperatures rise to uncomfortable and potentially dangerous levels. The current conditions not only compromise employee well-being but also create an unpleasant environment for the many residents who rely on postal services daily.

 

Additionally, one of the exterior light fixtures at the main entrance has been non-functional for over a year. As a result, the steps and entryway remain poorly lit during the late afternoon and evening hours, posing a safety concern. The only working fixture remains continuously on, suggesting there may be a broader malfunction in the lighting system.

Furthermore, my office has received constituent reports about the possible presence of mold and maintenance issues with the boiler at the Bronxville Post Office. USPS has an obligation to ensure that it provides employees with a safe and healthy work environment as well as prompt, reliable, and efficient services for patrons.

 

Given the concerns shared above, I request answers to the following questions:

 

What is the reason for the closure of the Bronxville Post Office?

Is mail delivery for patrons of the Bronxville Post Office still being conducted?

How can residents and business owners access their post office boxes?

Will another local post office receive and distribute mail on behalf of the Bronxville Post Office during its closure?

Some reports have indicated that mail to Post Office Boxes in the Bronxville location was redirected to the Yonkers Main Post Office. Can you confirm this report, and if so, explain how and when customers were made aware?

When will the Bronxville Post Office reopen?

What is being done to ensure that the temperature at the Bronxville Post Office is not resulting in uncomfortable and potentially hazardous conditions for USPS staff and patrons?

What is being done to ensure that the exterior light fixtures at the main entrance of the Bronxville Post Office are not posing a safety risk to USPS staff and patrons?

Has mold been detected at the Bronxville Post office?

When was the last time that the vents at the Bronxville Post Office were thoroughly cleaned to prevent mold and how regularly is this done?

If there is mold present at the Bronxville Post Office, what actions are you taking to remediate this?

 

I look forward to receiving a response in a timely manner and will follow up no later than August 5, 2025 if I have not received a response at that time. Thank you for your attention to these issues.

 Sincerely,  

 

George Latimer

Member of Congress

 

Yonkers Insider: US Congressman George Latimer 16th District: Rep. Latimer Demands Answers from Postmaster General About Bronxville Post Office Closure, Working Conditions.

 

Rep. Latimer Demands Answers from Postmaster General About Bronxville Post Office Closure, Working Conditions.

WASHINGTON, DC – Today U.S. Representative George Latimer (NY-16) sent a letter to Postmaster General David Steiner about the closure of the Bronxville Post Office and reports of unsafe working conditions for employees. The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) closed the Bronxville Post Office on July 17th and have been unable to commit to a re-opening date.

In the letter Congressman Latimer said, “Some of my constituents have been unable to receive important parcels, including medications, posing an immediate and unacceptable risk to their health. When my constituents inquired about this issue, they received a response that the Bronxville Post Office is closed and that the timeline for reopening is unknown… Furthermore, my office has received constituent reports about the possible presence of mold and maintenance issues with the boiler at the Bronxville Post Office. USPS has an obligation to ensure that it provides employees with a safe and healthy work environment as well as prompt, reliable, and efficient services for patrons.”

Congressman Latimer requested USPS respond to him about a re-opening date and efforts to make the office safer for workers and patrons by August 5th.

Yonkers Insider: New York State Senator Shelley Mayer 37th District: **For Immediate Release** Senator Shelley B. Mayer Hosts Veterans Advisory Council General Meeting.

 

Senator Shelley B. Mayer Hosts Veterans Advisory Council General Meeting

(White Plains, NY)- State Senator Shelley B. Mayer will host a general meeting of her Veterans Advisory Council this Friday, July 25 at 8:30 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus in Port Chester. Senator Mayer’s Veterans Advisory Council brings together local veterans to work closely with Senator Mayer to address the ongoing needs and concerns of those who have bravely served the country. 

State Senator Shelley B. Mayer said, “Our veterans have sacrificed so much in service to our nation, and it is our responsibility to ensure their voices are heard and respected in policymaking. My Veterans Advisory Council provides an important opportunity to hear firsthand from veterans in our community about the challenges they face, the services they need, and the support they deserve. I encourage all veterans in the 37th Senate District to join us this Friday.”

The Veterans Advisory Council meet to discuss critical issues impacting local veterans, including access to quality healthcare, housing, mental health resources, employment, and educational opportunities. The insights gained from these discussions help shape Senator Mayer’s legislative priorities and strengthen state policies that affect veterans and their families throughout the district.

All veterans in the 37th Senate District are welcome to attend. Those interested in participating should RSVP by contacting Senator Mayer’s District Office at (914) 934-5250, via email at smayer@nysenate.gov, or by completing this form: tinyurl.com/MayerVACJuly25

Yonkers Insider: For Immediate Release: ***NEWS RELEASE***: CITY OF YONKERS & ST. JOHN’S RIVERSIDE HOSPITAL SIGN LAND SWAP AGREEMENT TO RESTORE PORTION OF HISTORIC UNTERMYER GARDENS.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

CITY OF YONKERS & ST. JOHN’S RIVERSIDE HOSPITAL SIGN LAND SWAP AGREEMENT TO RESTORE PORTION OF HISTORIC UNTERMYER GARDENS.

 

Portion of Hospital Parking Lot to be Swapped to Become Designated Park Land for Full Restoration of the Color Gardens.

Portion of the Color Garden on City of Yonkers parkland at Untermyer Gardens.

 

(Photo credit: Stephen F. Byrns/Untermyer Gardens Conservancy).

 

YONKERS, NY – July 22, 2025 – Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano today announced the City of Yonkers, St. John’s Riverside Hospital and the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy have signed an agreement to make a land swap of land owned by the City and the hospital. A portion of the parking lot at the hospital will be relocated, which will enable the Conservancy to restore the last major element of the historic Untermyer Gardens, called the Color Gardens.

 

The Color Gardens were a series of axially aligned terraces connected by stairs, each planted with flowers of a single color: pink, blue, red, white and yellow. Adjacent to the Vista, two of them are owned by the City and are clearly visible. The other gardens are currently owned by the hospital and are either used for parking or overgrown. The land swap will enable the parcels to be joined together once again as dedicated parkland, which must be approved by New York State.

Mayor Spano stated, “This public-private partnership is a powerful example of how collaboration can honor our past while investing in our future. By realigning land use through this thoughtful swap, we’re setting the stage for the full restoration of the magnificent Color Gardens and enhance the beauty and accessibility of it for generations to come. Thank you to the leadership at St. John’s Riverside Hospital, Yonkers Parks Department and Untermyer Gardens Conservancy for the shared vision and commitment to our City. Together, we are continuing to position Yonkers and the Gardens as a premier destination.”

 

“St. John’s is committed to the great partnership between these two historic Yonkers institutions, and the land swap is a natural extension of this partnership. This is a prime example of neighbors being good neighbors. Additionally, the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy has created a relaxing and healing environment which benefit both our patients and staff,” said Ron Corti, President and CEO of St. John’s Riverside Hospital.

 

Stephen F. Byrns, president of the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy, said “Negotiations for this land swap have been going on for twelve years. The land swap is a major achievement which will add another compelling feature to one of America’s greatest and favorite public gardens.”

 

It is hoped that the necessary approvals for relocating the parking lot will take place in the next year, with the relocation of the parking lot taking place in late 2026. When this work is complete, the Conservancy will undertake the restoration of five Color Gardens, which will feature fountains and statuary.

 

With over 300,000 annual visitors, Untermyer Gardens is one of the top tourist attractions in Westchester County. Once a private garden and owned since 1946 by the City of Yonkers, it was called “America’s most spectacular garden” by the national press in the 1920’s, and is considered the crown jewel of Yonkers.

Yonkers Insider: General Election 2025: Yonkers City Council 6th District.

Rematch set for Sixth District Seat for the Yonkers City Council between Yonkers City Councilman Republican Anthony Merante and Challenger Democrat Tim Hodges.

Four years ago Councilman Anthony Merante defeated Tim Hodges in a hotly contested race for Yonkers City Council 6th District. 

Tim Hodges has the Democratic and Conservative Party Lines and Councilman Anthony Merante has the Republican line. 

Yonkers Insider will be covering this closely watched Yonkers City Council Race For our readers and we hope to interview both candidates.  

Yonkers Insider Publisher Delfim Heusler 

Yonkers Insider: Promotions: Untermyer Performing Arts Council UPAC.

 July 26th 

5:40 pm: Carole Conklin, Chair of the Mayor’s Disability Advisory Board

Commemorating the Thirty-Fifth Anniversary of the ADA!

  6:00 pm: Peace of Heart! Celebrate our 50th Season in Song!

Special Raffle that to benefit the Untermyer Performing Arts Council:

Artificial Flower Arrangement designed and created by Carole Conklin!

Winner will be pulled during performance intermission.

Untermyer Performing Arts Council UPAC 

Yonkers Insider: Business Advertisement: Without A Slice.

Paid for by Without A Slice.