District 10 Update: August 21, 2025

This past week, I was honored to join residents at the Jewish American Heritage Festival. It was a joyful celebration of Jewish culture and contributions to Westchester and beyond, and a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength that comes from community. Moments like these show the best of who we are when we come together. At the same time, we face serious challenges. The so-called "Big Beautiful Bill" shifts the cost of SNAP (food stamps) onto New York State and Westchester County, raising our share from 50% to 75%. It also adds new filing and certification requirements, forcing our Department of Social Services to expand staffing while shouldering higher costs. This will make it harder for people in need to continue accessing this vital service — just as more Westchester families are seeking support. Together, these moments — celebrating our heritage and standing up for vulnerable neighbors — capture the spirit of Westchester: honoring our past, strengthening our present, and working toward a better future. Please check out my weekly update below, which includes information on the following: District 10 Events Board Approves Housing, Safety, Recreation, and Family Support Measures Give the Gift of Life—Donate Blood on August 27 Nominations Open for Senior Hall of Fame Weekend Fun in Westchester Parks Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter! Sincerely, Judah Holstein Legislator, 10th District District 10 Events New Rochelle: Vendors wanted for New Rochelle Holiday Market. Applications due September 1. Learn More    New Rochelle: Jazz Under the Stars, Thursdays at 6pm at Anderson Plaza, through September 4. New Rochelle: Taste of Horton Celebration with food, music, and vendors, on Saturday, August 23 from 2 to 7 PM (Horton Ave, from North Ave to Brook St). Board Approves Housing, Safety, Recreation, and Family Support Measures At its August 4 meeting, the Westchester County Board of Legislators advanced several important initiatives to strengthen housing, safety, recreation, and youth programs for residents. Protecting Affordable Housing & Public Safety: The Board voted to preserve long-term affordability for 160+ apartments in Sleepy Hollow, invest $6.6 million in security upgrades at the Department of Correction, and establish mutual aid agreements to support 29 local police departments. Investing in Recreation & Waterfront Revitalization: The Board approved $2.8 million for community improvements, including repairs to the flood-damaged Briarcliff-Peekskill Trailway and a partnership with Port Chester to revitalize its downtown waterfront area.  Supporting Families & Students: The Board authorized critical improvements at the County's largest family shelter in White Plains and partnered with Yonkers to launch an after-school program to help sixth-graders make a successful start in middle school. Give the Gift of Life—Donate Blood on August 27 The Westchester County Board of Legislators is partnering with the New York Blood Center to host a community blood drive on Wednesday, August 27 from 1–7 PM at the White Plains Library, 100 Martine Avenue. Donors will help save lives and receive a free beverage or ice cream as a thank-you. Sign up today: nybc.org/sponsor (use sponsor code: 71858)   Nominations Open for Senior Hall of Fame Westchester County is now accepting nominations for the 43rd Annual Senior Citizens Hall of Fame, which honors seniors who have made outstanding contributions to the community. Nominees must be age 60 or older, live in Westchester, and not be past inductees. The deadline to submit nominations is Wednesday, September 10. Learn More Weekend Fun in Westchester Parks   Looking for something to do this weekend? Westchester County parks offer family fun, hands-on workshops, and cultural celebrations! On Saturday, take a Medicinal Plant and Tree Tour at Lasdon Park, try Birding for Beginners at Marshlands Conservancy, or cool off at DJ Day at Sprain Ridge Park. Families can also explore art at Muscoot Farm or settle in for a free outdoor screening of Moana 2 at Glen Island Park. On Sunday, shop fresh produce and enjoy live music at Muscoot Farm's weekly Farmers Market, roll up your sleeves with Gardening Sundays at Lasdon Park, or immerse yourself in global traditions at the Muslim Heritage Festival at Kensico Dam Plaza. Learn More