There are two kinds of people in the world–those who eagerly anticipate Black Friday, and those who do not. For those who would rather meander, chat, and sip cider during their holiday shopping, here are four steps to ensure that your holiday shopping is appreciated by you, your gift recipients, and your community. 1) Always... Continue Reading →
VOTE! It’s the least you can do
Voting in every election is literally the very least you can do if you are an American citizen seeking to conduct yourself in a responsible manner. Have you voted yet? If not, read my voting guide below. Whether you are a traditionalist who likes to vote on Election Day, or you aren’t 100% sure the... Continue Reading →
Reflections on Being Mayor
Being mayor means many things. Cutting ribbons, walking in parades, officiating weddings, acknowledging milestones, bearing witness, being a role model, advocating justice, celebrating the arts, honoring heroes, supporting entrepreneurs, learning history, protecting the environment, inspiring young voices, visiting classrooms and nursing homes, and noticing the everyday beauty that makes Ossining special. These actions build a stronger... Continue Reading →
Community Solar: The Key to Achieving Ambitious Renewable Energy Goals
As a New Yorker and an environmentalist, I am proud that we are leading the charge in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing renewable energy production. The Climate Leadership & Community Protection Act (CLCPA) sets ambitious goals that demand a multi-layered approach. Most New Yorkers will not recognize the CLCPA acronym. But they can understand... Continue Reading →
9/11 during COVID
On this day nineteen years ago, nineteen men boarded airplanes and turned them into weapons. Their act of violence triggered a million acts of kindness, bravery, and compassion. There’s a whole generation that only knows of the 9/11 attacks as an historic event. That generation will live their entire adult lives in a post-COVID world.... Continue Reading →
Reasons for Hope in Ossining
In the wake of George Floyd being killed by Minneapolis police on camera… In a nation where the president advocates for police violence… In a moment when people have been isolated for months under a state of emergency… With unemployment and economic devastation not seen since the Great Depression… During a pandemic that has killed... Continue Reading →
COVID Poem
Three millennials walk into a bar. And they hug. And they kiss. And they eat with their fingers from a communal dish. They are young. They are healthy. Their households are too. They fear loss of freedom and jobs, not this new kind of flu. Church is cancelled today. “Could we spread out... Continue Reading →
2020 Opening Remarks
Last night was our first Village Board meeting of 2020. I shared the below remarks. Click here to view the meeting video. It’s been over a month since I publicly announced I would not seek another term as mayor. My decision is guided by the needs of my family at this time. My sons will... Continue Reading →
A New Chapter Ahead
It is with a heart full of gratitude for the people of Ossining that I announce I will not seek a fourth term for mayor in 2020. After thoughtful consideration, I have decided that I will start a new chapter. During my time as mayor the village has become greener, stronger, better connected, more welcoming... Continue Reading →
Seeking a Beloved Community: Ossining’s Response to Hate
"Hate, it has caused a lot of problems in the world, but has not solved one yet." ~Dr. Maya Angelou Ossining is still reacting to news of an incident that occurred yesterday at the high school where a swastika and the n-word were crudely scrawled on a bathroom wall. While the Ossining Police Department investigates,... Continue Reading →