District 10 Update: June 26, 2025

Click here to view this email in your browser

Last week, I joined a prayer vigil against hate in New Rochelle. Even in a city as diverse as New Rochelle moments like this remind us how much listening, respect, and mutual understanding still matter. We do not need to agree on everything, but we do need to care about how our words and actions affect those around us. Different communities carry different lived experiences. As an example, some turn to law enforcement any time they feel uneasy. Others hesitate because of long histories of profiling, discrimination, or being treated as outsiders. Language matters too. Words and slogans can carry pain, even if not intended. "The South will rise again" is recognized as a symbol of white supremacy and racial terror. Similarly, many Jews hear "Globalize the Intifada" and are reminded of suicide bombings and violence that targeted civilians. The American Jewish Committee explains that the phrase is often used to call for aggressive resistance against Israel and its supporters. Whether or not that is how it is meant, that is how it is heard. Once a community says it makes them feel unsafe, insisting otherwise is not solidarity. It is denial. When any community tells us that something causes them pain or fear, we have a choice. We can listen and grow, or we can dismiss and divide. The idea of a big tent only works if everyone inside it feels safe. That means holding ourselves accountable when language or behavior crosses the line, especially when it targets or marginalizes others. Inclusion is not just about who we welcome in. It is about standing with those who are most at risk of being pushed out. Justice begins with empathy, even before agreement. ​​​​​For more news and upcoming events, please see my weekly update below, which includes information on the following: Residents Denounce Skyrocketing Con Ed Rates  at Third Public Input Session Help Shape the Future of Health in Westchester Help Prevent the "Summer Slide" – Volunteer with FSSY Weekend Fun in Westchester Parks Upcoming Board of Legislators' Meeting District 10 Events Sincerely, Judah Holstein Legislator, 10th District​​ Residents Denounce Skyrocketing Con Ed Rates  at Third Public Input Session   More than 50 Westchester residents gathered at Saunders Trades and Technical School on June 17 to voice their outrage over Con Edison's escalating utility costs at the Westchester County Board of Legislators' third Con Edison Public Input Session. The forum marked the latest chapter in the Board's countywide effort to amplify community concerns about the company's pricing practices.    Con Edison is seeking to drive up delivery rates, with estimated increases in residential electricity bills of 11.4% and gas of 13.3% by 2026, compounding bills that many residents already consider exorbitant. Read More   The public is encouraged to attend the Board's fourth Con Edison Public Input Session:   Tuesday, July 15th from 7:00 to 9:00 PM New Rochelle YMCA in New Rochelle 50 Weyman Avenue Learn more about the Board's fight against Con Edison's rate hikes and how to make your voice heard on our website HERE. Residents are also encouraged to attend in-person public statement hearings to give testimony that will become part of the New York State Public Service Commission's review of the Con Edison Rate Case.    The following hearings will be held in Westchester County:   Tuesday, July 8, 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM Cortlandt Town Hall in Cortlandt Manor 1 Heady Street - Vincent F. Nyberg Meeting Room   Wednesday, July 9, 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM Westchester County Center in White Plains 198 Central Avenue - First Floor Meeting Room Help Shape the Future of Health in Westchester The Westchester County Department of Health is conducting its 2025–2027 Community Health Assessment (CHA) and wants your input! This brief survey helps identify local health concerns and guides the County's Community Health Improvement Plan. Residents 18+ are encouraged to participate and share how factors like income, housing, and access to care affect their well-being. The survey is available online in multiple languages and in print in English and Spanish. Responses will be accepted through July 31, 2025.  Click here to take the survey. Help Prevent the "Summer Slide" – Volunteer with FSSY Help prevent the "summer slide" and make a difference in a child's life by volunteering with the Family Service Society of Yonkers (FSSY). We're seeking volunteers (ages 17 and up) to support our Summer Reading Buddies Program in Yonkers, Port Chester, Ossining, and Tarrytown. No teaching experience needed—just your time and enthusiasm! Flexible summer opportunities Local sites across Westchester County Ready to help kids grow this summer? Register Here Questions? Contact Alexis Heck at AHeck@FSSY.org or (914) 200-3886.  Weekend Fun in Westchester Parks – June 28–29 From goat walks and yoga in the garden to movie nights, art shows, and poolside family fun—there's something for everyone this weekend in Westchester County Parks! Don't miss the launch of Saxon Woods Pool's 100-Lap Challenge and Family Fun Day, research talks on the American Chestnut, or a peaceful Garden Highlights Tour at Lasdon. Catch Despicable Me 4 under the stars, stroll Muscoot's Farmers Market, or enjoy a scenic ride on Bicycle Sunday. Learn More Join Us for the Next Board of Legislators' Meeting The Board of Legislators invites you to participate in our upcoming meeting on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. This is your opportunity to provide valuable input on matters that affect our community.  Learn how to watch or speak here. DISTRICT 10 EVENTS This Friday, June 27, at sundown, "Movies in the Park" returns to Main Street Park in Tuckahoe with a screening of "If." Enjoy free hot dogs, popcorn, and snacks. Complimentary pizza is provided by Il Gusto while supplies last.   New Rochelle Families can check out "New Rochelle Family Day" at the Westchester Childrens' Museum on July 1 at 11:30 AM. The event is free. Please register with QR Code or email lburton@hope-cs.org.   Check out the New Rochelle Public Library (NRPL) Film Series with a screening of "The Public," July 1 at 5:00 PM, at the library. Registration encouraged at https://newrochelle.librarycalendar.com.     See "Spark the Sound" Fireworks at Hudson Park and Beach July 4, from 9:30 -10:00 PM