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COUNTY POLICE SEEK PUBLIC’S HELP IN IDENTIFYING SUSPECTS IN BURGLARY AND VANDALISM AT PLAYLAND

(Hawthorne, NY) – Westchester County Police are seeking the public’s help in identifying three people who entered the Playland amusement park in the overnight hours of Sept. 23-24 and committed acts of theft and vandalism.

The trio arrived on the Playland beach in a small boat a little before midnight on Sept. 23. Then they climbed a fence to enter the amusement area. The intruders:

·         Vandalized an electrical room, cutting or ripping out fiber optic cables for phone and internet service;

·         Stole 200 stuffed animals, which they hauled away in garbage bags; and,

·         Attempted to throw a photo booth off the boardwalk but were unable to do so.

Detectives have previously shared suspect photos and case information with law enforcement in the region but the suspects have yet to be identified. Anyone who recognizes them is asked to contact detectives in the General Investigations Unit at 914-864-7916.

The County Police also maintain telephone and electronic tips lines for the public to provide information. Calls, e-mails and text messages to these tips lines are confidential. Tipsters can remain anonymous if they chose.

·         Voice Tip Line: (800)898-TIPS (8477).

·         Electronic Tips: Send email, text messages and small video clips to tips@wccops.com.

·         Via Mobile App: The WCPD Mobile App contains a home screen Submit a Tip button to enable tips to be sent confidentially or anonymously. It is available for Apple and Android phones. Enter Westchester County PD in the app store search bar to locate and download it.

Note: Additional photos will be posted to the Westchester County Police social media channels.

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WESTCHESTER COUNTY EXECUTIVE KEN JENKINS RELEASES PROPOSED 2026 CAPITAL BUDGET

Watch the News Conference Here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jw7Odt8lgck

(White Plains, NY) – Acknowledging the fiscal pressures and uncertainty facing counties across New York State, Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins released his proposed 2026 Capital Budget, a plan that balances financial discipline with the urgent need to invest in affordable housing, maintain and strengthen the County’s core infrastructure, environmental systems and quality of life.

Jenkins said: “This is not a year for wish lists — it’s a year for wisdom.  We are facing significant financial challenges, and that means we have to make every dollar count. Doing nothing, delaying maintenance, or deferring critical projects would ultimately cost taxpayers more. This plan focuses our limited resources on the investments that matter most — the ones that keep Westchester running, safe and strong.”

The 2026 Capital Budget zeroes in on executing already-appropriated projects, reducing inefficiencies, and bundling projects to maximize cost savings. More than 120 projects have been formally closed with cost savings in recent months, unlocking $13 million in available revenue for future needs.

Jenkins said: “Uncertainty doesn’t mean inaction, it means we have to be smarter, more selective, and more determined. This plan reflects that mindset.”

Deputy County Executive Richard Wishnie said: “Sound governance means looking beyond today’s numbers and planning for tomorrow’s needs. This Capital Budget does exactly that — it ensures we meet our current obligations while preparing for the future with foresight and responsibility. I applaud County Executive Jenkins by investing wisely in infrastructure, housing, and environmental resilience.  He is committed to safeguarding both the County’s assets and the quality of life that makes Westchester such a special place to live.”

County Director of Operations Joan McDonald said: “The Westchester County 2026 Capital Budget is a recognition that even with an uncertain fiscal climate, we must continue to invest in health and safety initiatives and critical infrastructure. Special thanks to the County Executive for his leadership as we continue to reduce the backlog, make improvements in our capital planning and implementation processes and advance these critical projects.”

County Budget Director Lawrence Soule said: “The 2026 Capital Budget has been developed with a strong commitment to fiscal discipline and strategic investment. Whenever possible, we have sought state and federal partnerships to maximize matching funds and reduce the local share of costs. By managing debt prudently and maintaining sound financial practices, we remain dedicated to preserving the County’s excellent bond rating and ensuring its long-term fiscal stability.”

Housing and Affordability

Recognizing the critical need for more affordable housing in Westchester, Jenkins has made expanding housing opportunities one of his top priorities. The Housing Implementation Fund and New Homes Land Acquisition Program together represent nearly $500 million in ongoing and future investments aimed at increasing and preserving affordable housing throughout the County. Since 2019, County funds have supported the creation or preservation of 3,383 affordable homes, helping ensure that more residents have access to safe, quality places to live.

The 2026 Capital Budget adds $25 million to each program, with continued annual funding planned through 2030, underscoring the County’s commitment to housing affordability and stability for all residents.

Department of Planning Commissioner Blanca Lopez said: “The County Executive’s commitment to affordable housing, both rental and homeownership, is commendable let alone during such fiscally challenging times. As Commissioner of Planning, I am acutely aware of the enormous need for affordable housing opportunities for our residents.  These opportunities translate into letting our residents improve their lives and that of their children, to live where they grew up and to not be priced out of their communities and lastly provides stability for our disabled and senior neighbors. The construction of affordable housing also creates economic development opportunities including construction jobs, adding stability to our County’s economy.”

Transportation and Sustainability

Jenkins remains deeply committed to protecting the environment and embracing innovation through sustainable technology. The 2026 Capital Budget includes $122.5 million to replace 94 aging hybrid buses, ensuring a more reliable fleet while significantly reducing emissions and improving air quality across Westchester.

In addition, the County is investing $35 million, with an additional $15 million in local matching funds, to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, adding more than 650 new chargers across 77 sites.

Department of Public Works and Transportation Commissioner Hugh Greechan said: “The County Executive’s 2026 Capital Budget proposal builds on this administration’s record of strengthening critical infrastructure to serve the County’s residents well into the future.  This budget proposal provides results that will be seen and felt in every corner of the County, creating jobs and supporting the local economy along the way.  The County’s capital plan includes everything from road and bridge projects, Parks improvements, and flood mitigation projects.  I am thankful to the County Executive and this administration for prioritizing infrastructure improvement projects that provide real benefit to the County’s taxpayers and look forward to working on these exciting projects.”

Director of Energy Conservation and Sustainability Pete McCartt said: “The electrification of our transit fleet and assisting our municipalities and residents to transition to electric vehicles is integral to reducing our carbon footprint and making our air cleaner for everyone.”

Complete Streets Program

In 2026, the County Executive also proposes continuing the $15 million Complete Streets Municipal Assistance Program that launched in 2025.  This program will again help local municipalities design and build safer, more accessible roads.  Bonds are expected to be issued early 2026.

Department of Planning Commissioner Blanca Lopez said: “The Complete Streets Municipal Assistance Program has generated great excitement among the County’s cities, towns and villages, with 27 applications submitted in response to the program’s official kick-off announcement in June. The Planning Department is eager to continue building this program and supporting the projects that are awarded funding through to completion.”

Protecting Environmental Infrastructure

The 2026 Capital Budget makes significant investments to strengthen Westchester’s environmental infrastructure and resilience. At the Yonkers Joint Wastewater Treatment Facility, the County will invest $150 million for major electrical upgrades and $35 million for solids handling improvements, modernizing one of Westchester’s most vital environmental facilities.

To address the growing threat of flooding, the budget includes $9 million in new funding for flood mitigation projects, including $4 million for improvements to the Lake Isle Dam in Eastchester.

An additional $21 million from the New York State Environmental Bond Act will support projects such as bridge and culvert replacements in Rye Brook and Rye, protecting communities and strengthening local infrastructure against future storms.

Department of Planning Commissioner Blanca Lopez said: “Investing in resilient infrastructure today means protecting our communities tomorrow. These projects will help safeguard our neighborhoods, strengthen our local infrastructure, and ensure Westchester is prepared for the challenges of a changing climate.”

Modernizing County Facilities

The 2026 Capital Budget includes major investments in County facilities to improve efficiency and support essential operations. The new Fleet and Road Maintenance Facility is estimated to cost $133.5 million, with $4.3 million in concept funds already appropriated to advance planning.

To manage costs and improve delivery, Jenkins has directed the bundling of projects by type and location to reduce administrative costs. Departments are also implementing technology-driven capital management systems for better oversight and streamlining environmental and contracting approvals to keep projects moving.

Jenkins said: “These aren’t flashy projects, and that is the point. These projects are foundational. This coming year will be about holding the line, cutting where we can and making strategic investments in safety, stability, and the County’s future fiscal health. If we fail to maintain what we have now, the costs down the road will multiply.”

The County continues to grapple with significant increases in costs across essential services:

• Healthcare: County healthcare expenses are up roughly 8%, exceeding budgeted amounts by over $15 million. Catastrophic medical cases alone, such as premature births requiring lifesaving care, cost the County $14 million in 2024.
• Early Intervention & Mental Health: Utilization of these services is increasing, reflecting growing community needs.
• Daycare & Housing: Enrollment in County-run daycare programs has increased while some federal funding has been reduced. Housing costs are also rising, with the County investing $8 million through the Office of Housing Counsel to help families remain in their homes and prevent shelter overcrowding.

Westchester could face losses of up to $700 million in state and federal aid.  SNAP funding reductions, beginning in 2027, could reduce support by approximately $6 million and further strain homeless shelters.

To address the shortfall, the County has implemented significant cost-saving measures:

• Overtime in the Department of Corrections has been cut by $4 million.
• Only positions directly tied to health and safety are being filled; a hiring freeze applies to all other roles across the Executive branch, the Board of Legislators, the District Attorney’s Office, and the County Clerk.

Jenkins said: “Some may ask about using our reserve fund, but reserves are not a piggy bank. While the situation is challenging, it could become far worse. I will not leave this County without a financial cushion. After the Astorino administration, there was nothing in reserves—we will not repeat that mistake.”

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County Executive Ken Jenkins Statement on MGM Resorts’ Withdrawal of Casino License Application

“I am both shocked, disappointed, and deeply dismayed by MGM Resorts’ decision to withdraw its commercial casino license application for Empire City Casino from consideration by the New York Gaming Commission and the Gaming Facility Location Board. Frankly, this decision makes little sense — especially after MGM had just been celebrating its advancement through the first round of the process.

“I share Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano’s concern that there appears to be more to this story.”

“For decades, so many of us have supported this effort, believing in the promise of good-paying jobs, new investment, and long-term economic stability for Yonkers and Westchester County. While this was not the outcome we hoped for, we remain committed to supporting MGM and Yonkers and to ensuring that our community continues to thrive.”

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This column originally appeared on WPCNR on February 1, 2003, and celebrates the Dreamers, the Achievers, the High and the Mighty, of whom Columbus was one–the man who kept a frightened crew together and a mission of three ships the Nina, the Pinta and the  Santa Marie, across unchartered waters to open the other half the world, and create this one.

I wrote it about the Apollo 11 Crew, but the sentiments expressed aptly fit Columbus the man and the achievers who risked the unknown, the terrifying, the oceans the frontiers, vagaries of fate:

The Space Blazers:

 The Apollo 11 Crew: Nail Armstrong, Michael Collins,  Buzz Aldrin, Jr. Mr. Armstrong set foot on the moon 56 years ago July 20, 1969(NASA Photo)

The exact hour  was  20:11 GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). That was the culmination of the last great American achievement  – the personal computer and the internet were to come as the next great American achievement conquering space — when Apollo 11 with Armstrong in command, with astronauts Michael Collins and Edwin E. Aldrin, Jr. blasted off to the stars  for real becoming the Flash Gordons, Buck Rogerses, Tom Corbetts and Captain Videos for all-time.

Their mission was a success.

But there have been the tragedies associated with striving for the stars and being the best, achieving the best, working for the good. Those are the persons who keep the dreams alive by their deaths and personal sacrifice. I wrote the following after the explosion of the Columbia Space Shuttle upon reentry after 19 days in space in January 2003.

The fatal Columbia Space Shuttle accident killing all 7 astronauts aboard when the historic spacecraft broke up over East Texas at daybreak on a Saturday morning began a period of national mourning. 

The expected media speculations have started, guessing at the cause of the reentry that went bizarrely, awfully wrong.

The truth is the civilized world takes absolute scientific miracles for granted. We do not appreciate the courage and skills of the men and women creating the future.

Those of us with cell phones, internet connections, high-speed trains, satellite communications and entertainment (all products made possible by the space program), do not realize the magnitude of daring achievements that you and I have come to accept to be executed like clockwork.

I first learned of Columbia’s fate late that Saturday afternoon when my wife mentioned that instead of sports programming being videotaped on our television, there was coverage of a live NASA event on ABC.

(Incredibly, the radio station I had been listening to on the way from a sports clinic had not reported any hint of the accident. That station was Z-100, then the most listened-to station in the New York metropolitan area. America Online also on their first up page did not mention the missing craft as of midday. That kind of communications misjudgment is sad.)

As I watched the close of Mr. Jennings’ coverage at about 3 PM, he signed off with no recap, no names of astronauts, and some parting words about what he thought was the cause of the disaster.

I’ll say what he should have said.

Columbia’s seven astronauts who died — we know their names: they were

Columbus, Magellan, Cook, Lewis, Clark, the Wrights, Lindbergh, De Laroche, Earhart, Markham, Gruber, Chaffee, Grissom, White, Gagarin, Komarov, the Challenger Crew, the crew of Soyuz 11. They are a handful of the hundreds of brave men and women who went into the unknown.

Appollo 11′s Crew turned the dreams of children like me in  the 1950s visualized in television shows like Tom Corbett, Space Cadet (above, Astro, Roger and Tom) and Captain Video, “The Master of Science” below  into reality.

America’s Spacemen and Spacewomen and the explorers before them are the people who trust in their ability and their vessel to expand the world’s horizons, to know the unknown, whose legacies build a better world. Whose deeds inspire and achievements are the catalysts for achievement to come. Who take responsibility!

From Captain Cook’s fragile vessel which sailed the Pacific, to the marvel that was the Columbia, the captains courageous who sailed the Roaring 40s, blazed the Oregon Trail, discovered how to fly, and flew the oceans, journeyed to the stars, knew the risks they were taking. They lived for it.

The media  trivializes their courage, their skills, and the difficulty of what they did and wanted to do, to concentrate on the causes of their failure, as if knowing the cause will make their loss acceptable.

The Magnificent Seven

I do not know Columbia’s Magnificent Seven. I just see their smiling faces in their photograph, and I regret the loss of every one. They had achievement on their faces, pride in their demeanor. Their eyes shown with the glow of being alive and striving to do the great things they set out to do. Unafraid. Faith in their abilities. A team.

Civilization has been created because of people like the crew of the Columbia’s Magnificent Seven, not the incompetence we see demonstrated daily today, the frauds, the irresponsibility where technology is concerned. the selfishness.

The Columbia itself had flown 26 missions since launching in 1981. It was guided and outfitted with the best 2003 communications and equipment had to offer.

Not like Captain James Cook’s bark, Endeavour, a 100-foot ship powered by sail that conquered the “space” of his time, the Pacific Ocean.

It was the Columbia’s Magnificent Seven’s Endeavour. They were tracked, they were backed up, but they perhaps more than anyone here on the ground knew the high dangers of the shuttle mission.

Liftoff, as their predecessors, The Challenger crew fell victim to, is fraught with risk. Reentry, which needs to be negotiated at precisely the right angle of attack, is equally risky. Soyuz 11’s space crew of Dobrovolsky, Volkov, and Patsayev died in 1971 on reentry, when the Russian cosmonauts took too long to descend.

No guarantees in real life. Machines sometimes run out of miracles. But sometimes machines save us inexplicably. Created by men and women, our machines retain some of our humanity and talent in them and we expect miracles of them.

The magnificence of the explorers’ sacrifice and dedication, is that they accept the risk of “the Endeavor.”

They accept the challenge, bear it alone, seizing challenge with an indomitable spirit and confidence, facing death when it comes with the satisfaction that they made the effort, and I suspect analyzing, coping, trying to fix it until the end, the very end.

They never give up.

Columbia’s Magnificent Seven, after 16 days in space, are gone now.

My sorrow is with their families who will miss these Magnificent Seven, and who know in their hearts that they died trying to reach the pinnacle of their aspirations.

They are only human.

They tried their best, achieved their best, and experienced what they longed to experience. They dared to live the great adventure.

They did it for us.

Not all of us have the courage to follow our longed-for adventures and make them real. You can watch movies that attempt to give that experience by transference.

That’s why, I believe, you and I take it so personally when we lose heroic personalities of our time. We wonder what they are like. We glorify them, rightly so.

“Follow Me! ” They Say.

I wonder how those Magnificent Seven felt, how satisfying it must have been, to be at your best, doing what you love, coping with the risks.I envy them that.

To the very end they are saying to each other, “I got this!”

The Columbia Crew is the Miracle.

In reality it is not machines that conquer, it is the intrepid personalities, each unique, each contributing, who perform the miracles with God’s helpnd their spirit!

That they fall short is an example to us, not to take ourselves, our fates, or our existences for granted.

This is true of the everyday people we take for granted: the firefighter, the policeman, the train engineer, the airline pilot, the construction worker. All are highly trained disciplined workers, executing precise tasks for which the non-expert has no feel or understanding .

What makes for the desire to achieve? What is out there or up there that leads them on?

The Feel  the thrill of the Unknown

I took Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s biographical adventure diary, Listen! The Wind down from the bookshelf.

She was the young bride of the aviator-pioneer, Charles Lindbergh. She navigated for him in his aircraft, and ran his radio communications on his many exploratory flights around the world.

In a passage she describes a night flight over the ocean, in which she was operating the radio for her husband Charles, who was at the controls.

Mrs. Lindbergh is describing the feelings she has as she tries to tune in the South American coast at sea in the dark of night in 1933, 92  years ago.

The feeling, the courage of the adventurer, the explorer has not changed. Ann Morrow Lindberg describes the fear the confidence, her discipline and her husband’s trust in her ability.  This is great:

“Night was the hardest. It would be all right once it was day. I kept saying…We began to hit clouds. I could tell without looking up, for the plane bumped slightly from time to time, first one wing down and then the other. And the moon blackened out for short periods.

Then for longer periods. I could not see to write my messages. I stiffened, dimly sensing fear – the old fear of bad weather – and looked out. We were flying under clouds. I could still find a kind of horizon, a difference in shading where the water met the clouds. That was all. But it seemed to be getting darker.

Storms?

Were those clouds or was it the sky? We had lost the water (surface).

We were flying blind.

I turned off the light quickly (to give my husband a little more vision), and sat waiting, tense, peering through the night. Now we were out again. There were holes through which one could see the dark sky. It was all right, I felt, as long as there were holes.

More blind flying.

This is it, I thought is what people forget.

This is what it means to fly across the ocean, blind and at night.

But day is coming.

It ought to be day before long… Daybreak!

What a miracle. I didn’t see any sign of day and yet it must be lighter. The clouds were distinguishing themselves more and more from water and sea.

Daybreak—thank God—as if we had been living in eternal night—as if this were the first sun that ever rose out of the sea.

Note: This column originally appeared February 1, 2003 on WPCNR