Mount Vernon Matters

My afternoon at the New York Botanical Garden

 

From the Mount Vernon City School District:

Positions to improve communications, bring in additional revenue

The Mount Vernon City School District has acquired a Grants Writer/Manager and a Director of Communications as part of the district’s overall vision to seek additional sources of revenue and to keep the community informed.

Danielle Crossley, a Mount Vernon native, will identify, develop and write grants to secure funds for the district. Ms. Crossley will be responsible for the management of all federal, state and privately funded grants. By seeking various grants the district hopes to tap into additional revenue sources outside of the taxpayer, city, state or federal aid.  Ms. Crossley will also be responsible for preparing annual grant performance reports to gauge the effectiveness of programs. Her salary is funded through grants.

“In an effort to strengthen our financial circumstances every avenue must be explored to augment our budget with grants that can provide our children with technology, instructional materials and professional development for their instructors,” Dr. Sawyer said. “This position will help to ensure that our students succeed even in tough financial times.”

Ms. Crossley brings a wealth of state and local level experience in the field of education. She has worked as a grants administrator for the Wyoming Department of Education and as a policy analyst for the Virginia Department of Education. In addition, she has been a teacher and a principal. Ms. Crossley has a master’s in Education, with an emphasis in Special Education, and is currently completing her doctorate at Virginia Tech.

Desiree Grand will manage and coordinate the public information and community relations of the school district.  Ms. Grand will prepare promotional and informational materials for publication and distribution, and improve and update the district’s website to provide staff and residents accurate and engaging content.

“It is essential that every effort be made to communicate effectively with the citizenry of Mount Vernon,” Dr. Sawyer said. “The use of all of the media at our disposal, with a specialist in that area, will provide this community with valued information on our challenges, as well as our progress.”

Ms. Grand is a graduate of SUNY New Paltz, a recipient of the Marguerite Higgins award and a former city resident. She previously worked for The Journal News for five years covering the city of Mount Vernon. She also has worked at the New Britain Herald and the Manhattan Times newspapers and as a research analyst for the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.

One of my random photos from 08.07

Last year, I had a chance to go to the Target First Saturday's "Wave Your Hands" night at the Brooklyn Museum.  This year, the event will be on Saturday 08.02.2008 and it's free from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., but you have to get there early for tix.  The West Indian-American Day Carnival Association starts the entertainment off with a showcase of steel drums, and Carnival costumes.  Inside there are gallery talks, music/dance performances, culminating in a dance party.  Visit the Brooklyn Museum for more information.

 

(l to r) Kevin Jones, KJ Denhert, Ray Levier, and John Caban

KJ Denhert recently completed her fifth stay, as an artist-in-residence, at Italy’s prestigious Umbria Jazz Festival.  Ms. Denhert, and her long-time band, NY Unit, played a series of eleven concerts over 10 days.  They even opened one show for Alicia Keys. 

After their wonderful European tour, the singer-songwriter-guitarist, who lives in Ossining, and NY Unit, played their first concert date back in America, right here in Mount Vernon.  On Saturday July 26, they headlined at City Hall Plaza, at the always outstanding, Summer Breeze Concert Series. Musicians John Caban (guitar), Kevin Jones (percussion), Ray Levier (drums), and Peter Vitalone (keyboards), joined Ms. Denhert for the 90-minute show.

Ms. Denhert’s music incorporates an eclectic blend of jazz, folk, bossa nova, funk, R&B, rock, and soul.  She played many tracks from her seventh album, Lucky 7.  From the moment that the show started, the wall between long-time devotees (she has a very loyal following), and newfound fans, quickly blurred.  I had a great time (and so did others in the audience given the levels of applause!), as it was impossible not to note the immense talent of Ms. Denhert and her fellow musicians!  They were fantastic!

It’s hard not to notice Ms. Denhert’s extroverted, and charismatic personality, which shined most through her intricate storytelling.  She used beautiful and poignant lyrics (such as in “He’s Not Coming Home”), as well as autobiographical sketches, to invite all in attendance to get to know her.  The Bronx native of Grenadian descent was relatable, humorous, and charming.  After performing “Little Mary” she said, “It’s great to be home.  This is our first concert back, and I love you all like a play cousin.”

Ms. Denhert describes her style, as “urban folk and jazz music that comes from my heart.  I love many styles of music growing up in New York.”  One song that showcased diverse genres was, “What’s My Name?” which was a musical journey in three parts with piano, a nod to Brazil, culminating in a third section where “we groove real hard.”

In concert, Ms. Denhert also paid tribute to Mexican artist, Diego Rivera, with a song that she wrote in his honor called “Rivera.”  The inspiration for the song was his “belief that sacrifice and passion were the two key ingredients for life.”  I personally enjoyed the phenomenal interpretations of “Ain’t No Sunshine” and the Beatles classic, “She Loves You.”

This was not Ms. Denhert’s first appearance in Mount Vernon.  Last year, she and the NY Unit performed at the Triple Hill Music Festival at the Doles Center.  Donna Jackson, who was the creative director, and now manages this year’s Summer Breeze concert series, has been a longtime fan of KJ Denhert’s work.  Ms. Denhert returned the praise, thanking Donna for inviting her back again, and for continuing to make community arts a priority in Mount Vernon.

After the incredible concert, I had a chance to buy Ms. Denhert’s latest, and eighth CD called, KJ Denhert Dal Vivo a Umbria Jazz, a stellar live recording from last December's Umbria Jazz Winter Festival. Sales were brisk, as the CD is currently only available at live shows.    For more information about tour dates, and albums, please visit the following websites:

KJ Denhert MySpace Page

KJ Denhert

News from the Mount Vernon City School District:

District taps principal with more than 30 years of experience

The Mount Vernon City School District has selected James Rutter to serve as principal for the Mount Vernon High School. Mr. Rutter has extensive experience in managing school districts and leading urban schools.

Mr. Rutter previously served as the Deputy Superintendent of the Lansing School District in Michigan. He has served as the superintendent of two school districts in Michigan and one in California. He also has served as a teacher and principal in the Michigan school district.

As an educator Mr. Rutter established an alternative school model that focused on setting a high level of expectation for urban children. The school improved academic achievement, teacher expectations, parent involvement and grade level performance. The school was recognized nationally for its success in preventing student drop outs.

 Mr. Rutter also has been at the helm of individual schools and districts as they underwent a restructuring process. Starting in 2009 Mount Vernon High School will also undergo a restructuring process and be divided into three Learning Communities.

Prior to his interview Mr. Rutter alerted district officials of allegations levied by a local weekly alternative newspaper that he plagiarized two education reports from national articles about education. Lansing School District officials called the incident a misunderstanding and did not investigate or admonish Mr. Rutter.

“I am aware of a lapse in professional judgment,” Sawyer said. “However, in light of his candor in sharing the issue with the district and because of his unusual experience in the area of restructuring schools, it is important to take advantage of his unique skills. I am also honored to work with a board that governs with both professionalism and compassion.”

Mr. Rutter will start next week. 

Summer in Mount Vernon- another shot from yesterday's a.m. rain.

Summer in Mount Vernon: A Morning Glory after the rain this a.m.

• Frank Formicola, Sr. a treasured Mount Vernon florist is remembered. [JN]
• The Somerset at Fleetwood, a proposed 16-story condominium was rejected by the Zoning Board. [JN]
  

Junior League of Pelham members Robin Bratone, Carolyne Rainero and Suzann Michailoff with their children, recently delivered toys, games and books to Patrice Cuddy (center) at Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS).

The Junior League of Pelham recently donated new and gently-used children’s items for Summer Fun in the Park, which is sponsored by WJCS in collaboration with the Mount Vernon Early Childhood Network, Department of Recreation, and the Children’s Library. On Tuesdays in July and August  families with preschoolers gathered at Hartley Park  for Summer Fun in the Park.
The donations also will be distributed to the Early Childhood Matters! Learn & Play Corner, a cozy area in the Mount Vernon Children's Library where parents, grandparents and their youngsters can explore books, blocks, toys and puzzles together. The Play Corner is open most days from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. For more information, call Ingrid Bentil 914.949.7699 -ext 357.

Summer in Mount Vernon- A hydrangea in the backyard.

Summer in Mount Vernon: Rose of Sharon in the backyard.

Kevin Robinson, a librarian at Mount Vernon Children’s Library, reads a story to youngsters at Summer Fun in the Park sponsored by Westchester Jewish Community Services in collaboration with the Mount Vernon Early Childhood Network, the Mount Vernon Department of Recreation and the Mount Vernon Children’s Library.

Each Tuesday this summer dozens of young children and their parents, grandparents or caregivers are having fun at Hartley Park in Mount Vernon thanks to a program sponsored by Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS) in collaboration with the Mount Vernon Early Childhood Network, the Mount Vernon Department of Recreation and the Mount Vernon Children’s Library. The children and their caregivers are enjoying time together with toys, games, songs, stories and water play. Special visits from the Mount Vernon Mounted Police and the Fire Department have added to the excitement.  The program also offers parent-to-parent support,  community building, information and community resources.

 

“Fun in the Park is the place to be,” says Patrice Cuddy, Director of the WJCS Parent-Child Home Program.  “The wonderful bright, sunny mornings have brought together families for great fun and great collaborations with the Mount Vernon community.”

 

 

Members of the Mount Vernon Fire Department, including Lt. Patrick Gornley, Kevin Holt and Javis Jones, recently visited the families at Summer Fun in the Park.

 

Other visits were made by the Greenburgh Nature Center and Jump for Joy. Sessions took place throughout July and August at Hartley Park in Mount Vernon.

 

Florentina Tomas and her son, get to know Hulk and Officer Peter Sikoryak of the Mount Vernon Police Department's Mounted Unit, who recently visited the families at Summer Fun in the Park sponsored by Westchester Jewish Community Services.

Gracing my inbox last week, was a great news note from Carlos Jimenez, the Latin Jazz flautist, composer, arranger, and producer. I wrote about his fantastic appearance at the Mount Vernon Public Library in December 2007. [see note]

On June 1, Mr. Jimenez, a Yonkers native, released his third CD, “Thoughts.” His latest work showcases his versatility, by creating 11 original compositions, with extraordinary results.

“Thoughts” features acclaimed musicians, such as Ruben Rodriguez on bass, and Vince Cherico on drums. Soon, Jimenez along with vibist, Jay Hoggard, Ruben Rodriguez, Dean Vazquez & Vince Cherico will also be featured on Going Back To N.O.L.A, a wonderful tribute to the legendary pianist Hilton Ruiz produced by Aidita Ruiz/HRM Records.

I wish him the best with his latest release, and look forward to catching one of his many shows this summer.

For more information:
Myspace
CD Baby

Over the weekend, I had a chance to check out one of the most anticipated events in Mount Vernon.

On Sunday July 13, the Mount Vernon Kiwanis Club Foundation presented its Second Annual Classic Car Show & Competition at Memorial Field, in association with the City of Mount Vernon. Proceeds from the car show benefited the Mount Vernon Kiwanis charities. Live entertainment was provided by WFAS 105.3 personality Johnny Z, a renowned disc jockey who hosts the Rock and Roll Revival Show.

Kiwanis members are active throughout Mount Vernon, supporting a number of charitable causes including student scholarships, community events, youth employment, summer camps, and senior citizen programs among many others. The Kiwanis Club has also sponsored activities for the Mount Vernon Boys and Girls Club, and Mount Vernon City School District schools.

Here are some photographs from the show!

For a detailed calendar of New York area car shows, please click here.

A haven for secret millionaires? When I lived in New Orleans (above) my somewhat reclusive octogenarian neighbor, resided in a squalid, nondescript, studio apartment.  However, he did frequent the hotel restaurant next door to our apartment building daily for his meals. Upon his death, I found out that he was a multimillionaire who left his fortune ONLY to the waitresses at the hotel restaurant.  Now here's a story about another man who recently bequeathed $20 million to the New Orleans Foundation.  While John Marque was quite generous in life, few knew that he was so wealthy. There is a lot to be said for those who choose to keep a low profile. [T-P]

I had a chance to hang out with 70 of my neighbors last weekend in Mount Vernon's City Hall Plaza.  Melvin Sparks, the Groove, Soul Jazz, Old-School Acid Jazz, Barbeque Funk, Funk Jazz legend, made a tour stop here in the city that he calls home.  With him were members of the Melvin Sparks Band, including Andrew Beals (saxophone); Bill Carbone (drums); and Eli Winderman (B3 organ).

The July 5 event, marked the first nighttime concert of the city's Summer Breeze Concert Series.  My friend Donna Jackson is this year's Creative Director, and has assembled a diverse array of talent to entertain Mount Vernon area residents for FREE until the end of August.   Listening to music was the perfect way to unwind on a leisurely Saturday night.

Mr. Sparks has collaborated with some of jazz's greatest musicians, including David "Fathead" Newman, Reuben Wilson, and John Patton. He has recorded seven albums of his own, and appeared on 100 other albums, as a much sought-after studio musician. The guitar legend is often billed as, “The Master of the Groove! The Acid-Jazz Pioneer! The Originator of Soul Jazz, Old School Acid-Jazz & Barbecue Funk (Funk Jazz).”

The band played a largely improvisational set that spanned over 90 minutes.  A man of few words onstage, Mr. Sparks lets his guitar do all of the talking.  The band's rhythmic call was met with an audience response complete with feet stomping, and respectfully affirmative head nods, mostly from the adults. Young children engaged in impromptu soul dances, outwardly feeling the groove.  It was all too fabulous for words. :)

Around the net:

Melvin Sparks

Melvin Sparks Band on MySpace

 Google's homepage today features the artist Marc Chagall who was born on this day in 1887 (and died in 1985).  His work can be found locally at Union Church of Pocantico Hills.    One of his many commissions was The Good Samaritan (1967).  David Rockefeller wrote an essay found here, about how Chagall, and fellow world-renowned artist, Henri Matisse, were chosen to create the church's beautiful stained glass windows.  Tours are available to the public.

 

 

Marc Chagall, The Good Samaritan (447 x 278) Art archive

 

An aerial view of Willson's Waves, Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Conservation

This week, I've received a flurry of inquiries about Willson's Waves, one of the top destinations to cool off on a hot day. Located in the 23-acre historic Willson's Woods Park in Mount Vernon, it has a loyal legion of fans, as 60,000 people visit the pool annually.  From the Westchester County website:

A special feature of Willson's Woods Park is "Willson's Waves" where you can body surf on 3-foot waves in the county's first-ever wave pool. Splash downward on an 18-foot-high water slide, wander through cascades and fountains in the water playground, or just cool off on the spray deck. 

For more information, visit the Westchester County Parks Department's website here.

In the press:

Fun Comes in Waves in Mount Vernon. [JN]

Mark Vergari of the Journal News captured the joy of wave pool swimmers in this June video. [JN]

Friends of the Mount Vernon Public Library members at Groovin' on Gramatan Festival 2007.

Are you looking for an opportunity to volunteer in the community? Since 1986, there has been a great group that has been a tremendous resource for providing funds for educational, cultural, and recreation activities at the Mount Vernon Public Library.

The Friends of the Mount Vernon Public Library is a non-profit organization that supports the library through volunteer service. The Friends have been instrumental in funding library equipment purchases, sponsoring workshops for both children and adults. They also organize and operate book sales, and support the library's literacy tutor training program.

Both business and community members are urged to become members. The membership fee/donation is $10 for an individual, and $25 for a business. For more information, contact mvplfriendsprez@aol.com if you have books, time, ideas or funds to donate. A printable membership flier can also be found by clicking here.

Yesterday, I received a copy of the Summer 2008 newsletter, and the Friends had a very successful May Book and Bake Sale. Look for the Friends this summer at the annual Fleetwood Street Festival on September 14.

Summer in the backyard- yesterday.

More random photographs from the backyard: