Westchester County Executive Gives Weekly Update From Eclipse Event

Westchester County Executive George Latimer held his weekly update news conference at Lasdon Park and Arboretum in Somers on Monday so that everyone could also watch the solar eclipse.

"In addition to the eclipse we're also going to talk about an earthquake that we had last week. We have no volcano news updates this week so that's the good news in Westchester," he said to laughter from the audience.

He talked about the county's response to the 4.7 magnitude earthquake (epicenter in New Jersey) felt across the Hudson Valley. County staff checked everything from the airport to the sewage treatment plants, he said; there was no damage.

The most important issue of the day, he said, was viewing the exciting astronomical event safely.

"It is rare for a total solar eclipse to be viewable to so many people, and it’s exciting that it was partially visible in our area. Being able to experience it safely at one of our County parks was a great way to celebrate this rare and special phenomenon," Latimer said.

He gave Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation Commissioner Kathy O’Connor a chance to enumerate several upcoming programs, including "Park and Read" for children on Mondays at Muscoot Farm and Lasdon Park on Thursdays.

He also offered an update on the progress, or lack of it, in Albany toward a state budget.

"We watch it closely, because we are affected by some of the decisions that are made," he said. In a few weeks, lawmakers will be invited to join the weekly update to provide details on the spending decisions.

Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins also wished Westchester's Muslim residents joy at Eid al-Fitr, the feast that ends the season of Ramadan.

Latimer said he hoped all Westchester residents would share the joy of celebrations and observances by their diverse neighbors.