District 10 Update: March 6, 2026

This week Jews around the world celebrated Purim, the story of Jews in Persia who were miraculously saved from Persian Prime Minister Haman by Mordechai and Queen Esther. The story of Purim is a reminder that history can turn in unexpected ways. As we watch events unfolding in that same land today, we are reminded that moments like this rarely fit into simple narratives. Sometimes two things can be true at the same time. It is reasonable to be troubled by the way the war in Iran began. The President bypassed constitutional norms in launching it, a move that many in Congress see as a slap in the face to the role of the legislative branch. Starting a war without congressional support and a credible plan for what comes next is extraordinarily risky. At the same time, American and Israeli intelligence carried out a precise and miraculously timed operation that eliminated Ayatollah Khamenei and numerous senior IRGC leaders in a single strike. But this tactical success will mean little if the IRGC maintains power, potentially under leadership even more hostile to the West and driven by a renewed appetite for vengeance. Whether this war ultimately proves justified will depend largely on what happens next. But we should not forget that since the Iranian revolution in 1979, Iran's regime and its Revolutionary Guard have led chants of "Death to America," calling the United States the "Great Satan." The IRGC is a dangerous regime that is directly responsible for the deaths of more than a thousand Americans. In the long run, this war could save lives and improve prospects for peace in the region – Iran's decision to retaliate by striking Arab Gulf states may also have the unintended consequence of pushing those countries closer into alignment with the United States, Israel, and the West.  History will ultimately judge the decisions made in these days.  Please check out my weekly update below, which includes information on the following: District 10 Events Delivering Westchester's 2026 State Priorities Honoring Irish American Heritage and Improving Residents' Quality of Life Free One-on-One Consultations for Westchester Seniors Playland Park Job Fair Happy Holi! What's Happening in Our Parks Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter! Sincerely, Judah Holstein Majority Leader, 10th District Legislator DISTRICT 10 EVENTS March 9 (6:30 pm): Meet & Greet with the Tuckahoe Friends of the Library Curious about the Friends of the Tuckahoe Library? Join an informal Meet & Greet at the library! Call with any questions 914-961-2121 March 14 New Rochelle: Minigolf @ Downtown REC Enjoy a day of indoor mini golf at Downtown REC! Bring your family and friends to 29 LeCount Pl (2d Fl.) to enjoy 9 holes of play, plus music and snacks! Registration is required online or in person at the Recreation Office. For additional information, contact Lisa Flowers at lflowers@newrochelleny.gov. Cost is $10/person.    New Rochelle 2026 DPW Collection Schedule You may request one by emailing CityManager@newrochelleny.gov, by searching online, or by downloading the Recycle Coach App from the App Store or Google Play. Delivering Westchester's 2026 State Priorities The Board of Legislators and County Executive Ken Jenkins have submitted the 2026 Joint State Legislative Package to the New York State Delegation, outlining key priorities for the year ahead. The package advances initiatives focused on affordable childcare, healthcare, flood mitigation, and greater support for residents facing rising costs. Honoring Irish American Heritage and Improving Residents' Quality of Life The Board of Legislators celebrated Irish American Heritage Month on Monday night by honoring Sandra Feeney-Charles and Pauline M. Galvin for their outstanding leadership and community service. During the meeting, $6 million was approved to create 25 affordable apartments in Ossining, along with $11.75 million to rebuild the Pondfield Road West Bridge and $11.13 million to upgrade the Bronx River Pathway. These investments fortify housing, infrastructure, and recreation across Westchester. Free One-on-One Consultations for Westchester Seniors On Thursday, March 12, the Senior Law Day Collaborative will have attorneys, geriatric care managers, and financial planners on hand to meet privately with you via Zoom. You can ask questions about Medicaid, your will, finances, or home care. There is no cost and no obligation. Registration opens on March 11th at 7AM.    Playland Park Job Fair Meet hiring managers and explore seasonal work opportunities at the Playland Park Job Fair on Saturday, March 14 from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Westchester County Center in White Plains. The first 150 applicants to apply online in advance by Wednesday, March 11 at noon are guaranteed an interview. Happy Holi! The Westchester County Board of Legislators extends warm wishes to our friends and neighbors who celebrate the Festival of Colors. May the Hindu celebration of Holi bring joy and renewal as winter ends and we welcome spring.  What's Happening in Our Parks Westchester County Parks has a full calendar of winter activities, programs, and events for residents of all ages. Find opportunities to get outside, stay active, and enjoy our parks this season. Learn More