Since my last message, I joined in honoring Gold Star Mothers, a local labor union, our Disability Employment Network staff, Hispanic Heritage, domestic violence victims, and clergy who've served for 35 years. I also celebrated the Jewish New Year with my family.
One of the most profound moments was reflecting on the anniversary of Oct 7. I was inspired by Slava the Barber, who removed his Mezuzah from his Yonkers shop last year for fear of being attacked. Sadly, he was brutally assaulted anyway. After recovering from his injuries, he proudly reinstalled his Mezuzah. At a Hillel event at Sarah Lawrence, a student shared that last year she would hide her Jewish Star pendant, but has since decided to wear it proudly. Both inspired me and reminded me just how vital it is to share and celebrate our heritage.
We all have unique attributes, whether from culture, religion, nationality, ethnicity, or appearance. These differences should help us connect, not divide. This week, as we celebrate even more cultures, Yom Kippur, Columbus Day, and Indigenous People's Day, I encourage you to share what makes you unique and be open to learning about others. They need not be in conflict. We grow stronger through understanding, not fear.
Regardless of which holiday you celebrate, or even if you don't celebrate any of these, ask someone who does to tell you more and then genuinely listen to what they share. Because we all need each other, even if we don't realize it.
For more news and updates on upcoming events, please see my weekly update below.
Sincerely,
Judah Holstein
Legislator, 10th District
Touch-a-Truck in New Rochelle
Come see the vehicles and equipment that help build and maintain our community, including ambulances, tow trucks, police cars, motorcycles, fire trucks, construction equipment, and DPW trucks. Join us on Saturday, October 12, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Hudson Park in New Rochelle. Learn more
New Rochelle's ArtsFest 2024
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ArtsFest 2024 – the exciting weekend-long celebration of the arts — will take place in New Rochelle and surrounding communities from Thursday, October 17th through Sunday, October 20th. The action-packed weekend includes a return visit from The Moth Radio Hour, open artists studios, live music and dance, film screenings, art exhibits, a classic car show, a Makers Market, spoken word events, a free trolley tour of New Rochelle's murals, and interactive activities for all ages. Learn More
Halloween and Fall events in New Rochelle
Throughout the month of October, New Rochelle will hold a variety of Fall and Halloween themed events throughout the City. Learn More
Westchester Watch: Legislative Highlights
In its sixteenth Board meeting of the year, the Board passed several initiatives, including affordable housing, sewage and electric infrastructure upgrades, and the replacement of a 45-year-old smokehouse building. Read More
Attention Westchester Voters! Flip Your Ballot on November 5th!
Vote Yes for 4-Year Terms for Westchester County Legislators
A Unanimously Approved, Bi-Partisan Proposal
The Westchester County Board of Legislators is proposing an amendment to extend legislative terms from two to four years while preserving the existing 12-year term limits. Known as Westchester County Proposition 2024-1, this change would align Westchester County with 70% of other counties in the state that have already adopted longer terms.
This amendment is designed to better serve today's voters by enabling Legislators to concentrate on policy rather than politics. With term limits firmly established, Legislators can dedicate themselves to the work they were elected to do, instead of campaigning every other year.
On November 5th, turn over the ballot and vote Yes to go from 2 to 4-year terms.
Board of Legislators Unclaimed Funds Workshop
Find out if you are eligible for a refund
Over 65,000 Westchester County residents have unclaimed funds waiting to be collected. In collaboration with the New York State Comptroller's Office, the County Executive and Board of Legislators are hosting a series of workshops to assist residents in reclaiming their money. The next workshop will be held on Thursday, October 16th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Grinton I. Will Public Library in Yonkers. For more information and to check if you have unclaimed funds, visit our website.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The Westchester County Health Department encourages women ages 40+ to schedule a mammogram this October and discuss their risk factors with a healthcare provider. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in American women, and 10% of cases occur in those under 45. Early detection and understanding personal risk are key. Women at average risk should have regular screenings, while those at higher risk may need them more frequently. To reduce breast cancer risk, maintain a healthy weight, stay active, and avoid alcohol, tobacco, and long-term hormone therapy.
Learn more about breast cancer screening and support in Westchester.
Yom Kippur: A Sacred Day of Reflection, Repentance, and Renewal
Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar—a sacred time for reflection, repentance, and fasting, offering an opportunity to seek forgiveness and begin anew. Rooted in ancient biblical traditions, Yom Kippur reminds us of the enduring values of inner peace, humility, and reconciling with others. As we reflect on the meaning of this day, let it serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of accountability and unity. May this day bring renewal to us all. G'mar Chatima Tova – May you be sealed in the Book of Life.
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