YONKERS POWER LIST (First Draft)

1. Mike Spano
Yonkers Mayor
Mike Spano won reelection in 2023, capturing 60% of the vote on his way to an unprecedented fourth term as the city’s top elected leader. During his tenure, Spano has helped revitalize the state’s fourth-largest city, including recruiting Lionsgate to build a major film studio campus downtown, transforming former industrial sites into business hubs, and advancing Extell’s Hudson Piers waterfront development with new housing, retail, and parks. Spano’s track record on economic development and school safety continues to position Yonkers as a growth engine in Westchester.2. Lakisha Collins-Bellamy
Yonkers City Council President
Lakisha Collins-Bellamy shocked the Yonkers political establishment in 2021 by upsetting the incumbent on her way to becoming the leader of the legislative body. The longtime Municipal Housing Authority attorney became the first Black leader elected citywide and has directed more funding to repair parks and community centers while sponsoring legislation to create new affordable housing. In 2025, she easily won reelection and continues to shape the city’s legislative priorities on housing equity and neighborhood revitalization.

3. Tasha DiazYonkers City Council Member (3rd District)
Tasha Diaz focuses on quality-of-life issues including parks, public safety, and youth programs. As a key council member, she has pushed for investments in neighborhood infrastructure and community centers, helping translate citywide growth into tangible benefits for residents.4. 5. Deana R. Norman
Yonkers City Council Majority Whip (1st District)
Deana R. Norman (also referred to as Deana R. Robinson in some records) plays a central role in council leadership as majority whip, focusing on fiscal responsibility and constituent services in one of Yonkers’ most active districts. Her work on parks, public safety, and housing policy helps bridge community needs with citywide development goals.6. 7. Matthew Gullotta (often called Matt Gullotta) is a Yonkers-area and Westchester-based philanthropist. In 2015, he founded Gullotta House to help Westchester County residents (including many in Yonkers) facing financial hardship, food insecurity, or other difficulties. Gullotta House focuses on direct assistance to individuals and families in need. Providing food vouchers, meals, and emergency support (the organization has delivered over 120,000 meals during the COVID-19 period alone and continues this work), Funding practical aid such as medical equipment (e.g., stairlifts for disabled residents), rent/utility assistance, and other hardship relief. Organizing fundraising events like polar plunges (e.g., Headless Horseman Charity Plunge and Escape from Sing Sing plunge), community ice cream socials, and partnerships with local businesses and restaurants. The charity operates primarily in Westchester County, with a strong presence and impact in Yonkers and surrounding communities. It emphasizes hands-on help and community outreach rather than large institutional grants. Matt Gullotta sis respected in Westchester for his grassroots approach to philanthropy
8.9. Tim Hodges
Yonkers City Council Member (6th District)
Tim Hodges, newly elected to the 6th District seat, brings fresh energy to council deliberations on growth and services. His role helps ensure broader geographic representation in decisions affecting Yonkers’ expanding multifamily and commercial developments.10. Andrea Stewart-Cousins (full name: Andrea Alice Stewart-Cousins)

New York State Senate Majority Leader (35th District)

Senator Cousins is a powerful New York State politician and a longtime resident of Yonkers. She is a New York State Senator for the 35th District (which includes parts of Yonkers, Greenburgh, White Plains, New Rochelle, and Scarsdale). She is also President Pro Tempore and Majority Leader of the New York State Senate — the highest-ranking Democrat and the most powerful position in the Senate. Senator is a lifelong Yonkers resident and has deep roots in the city. Her public service career began in Yonkers in 1992, when she was appointed Director of Community Affairs under Mayor Terence Zaleski. In that role, she created internship programs, helped revitalize downtown Yonkers, and co-created the popular “River Fest” celebration on the Hudson River. She later served as a Westchester County Legislator (representing Yonkers), where she rose to Majority Whip and Vice Chair. Senator Cousins has been a key architect of major legislation on education funding, criminal justice reform, reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, environmental justice, and affordable housing. She is widely regarded as one of the most influential Democrats in New York State government and a strong advocate for working families, education equity, and suburban/urban issues — often drawing on her Yonkers experience.11. Steve Levy
First Deputy Mayor, City of Yonkers
Steve Levy serves as a top advisor and operational leader in the mayor’s office, overseeing day-to-day city administration and key interdepartmental initiatives. His role ensures seamless execution of Spano’s priorities on economic development and public services.12. Susan Gerry
Deputy Mayor, City of Yonkers
Susan Gerry focuses on policy coordination and community engagement from the mayor’s office. She has been instrumental in advancing partnerships on housing, public safety, and neighborhood revitalization across Yonkers.13. Ru Ros is a well-known hyper-local content creator and video journalist, and in the Yonkers community. He is the founder, creator, and main administrator of Yonkers Voice Facebook group that is focused on Yonkers news, incidents, police activity, accidents, and community updates. Ru Ros frequently posts videos, live reports, and news updates from the streets of Yonkers. His content style is raw, on-the-ground, and often focuses on breaking local events, public safety, and neighborhood issues. In late 2024, he received the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award (a certificate often given for volunteer or community service) for his reporting work in the community. Ru Ros is one of the most active grassroots content creators — functioning as a citizen journalist and community news aggregator through his Yonkers Voice platform.14. Christopher Sapienza
Police Commissioner, City of Yonkers
Christopher Sapienza leads the Yonkers Police Department, shaping public safety strategy in a city with diverse neighborhoods and ongoing development. His focus on community policing and crime reduction directly impacts resident quality of life and supports economic growth.15. Nick Spano (full name: Nicholas A. Spano) is a longtime Yonkers political figure, former New York State legislator, and prominent Albany lobbyist. Nick entered politics young and was elected to the New York State Assembly at age 25. He is best known as the older brother of current Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and a central member of the influential Spano family political dynasty in Yonkers. He is the eldest of 16 children of Leonard and Josephine Spano (their father was a former Westchester County Clerk and a key figure in building the family's political influence). He was widely regarded as a powerful and charismatic figure in Albany and Westchester politics, sometimes referred to informally as an "unofficial mayor" of Yonkers due to his influence. 16. Dr. Ammir S. Rabadi, MD is a well-known family medicine physician based in Yonkers, New York. He is one of the most visible and respected doctors serving the local community. He has over 23 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Rabadi is highly regarded for providing personalized, comprehensive care to patients of all ages — from children to seniors. He treats a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, He is frequently recognized locally, including being named a NY Top Doc in 2025 for his outstanding patient care. Dr. Rabadi maintains a strong local reputation for compassionate care and accessibility. He is often mentioned positively in Yonkers community groups. Dr. Rabadi is affiliated with St. John’s Riverside Hospital and the Sans Souci Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.17. 18. Vincent “Vinny” Spano

City Clerk, City of Yonkers

Vinny Spano has held the city clerk's position for multiple terms and was unanimously re-appointed by the Yonkers City Council to his third consecutive five-year term in 2023. As City Clerk, Vinny Spano heads one of the most important administrative offices in Yonkers government. Vinny Spano is a well-liked, low-key public servant that is respected across party lines for his professionalism and dedication to efficient city services. In late 2024, Vinny Spano was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon and liver cancer. He underwent multiple surgeries and months of chemotherapy. In October 2025, he publicly announced that he was cancer-free, a moment that was widely celebrated in the Yonkers community.19. 

20. John Rubbo
Yonkers City Council Majority Leader (4th District)
John Rubbo serves as the mayor’s key legislative partner, steering major budget,He is respected across party lines for his professionalism and dedication to efficient city services. zoning, and development priorities through the City Council. As majority leader, he has advanced critical infrastructure and waterfront initiatives that support Yonkers’ downtown and Hudson River revitalization while addressing neighborhood concerns in one of the city’s most diverse districts.21. 22. Corazon Pineda-Isaac
Yonkers City Council Member (2nd District)
Corazon Pineda-Isaac is a strong advocate for immigrant communities, education funding, and small-business support. She has sponsored legislation to enhance local services and played a central role in council committees focused on budget oversight and community development in a rapidly evolving district.23. 24. Michael B. Breen
Yonkers City Council Minority Leader
Michael B. Breen, the lone Republican on the council, provides essential oversight on spending and major projects. As minority leader, he advocates for fiscal prudence and has shaped debates on development while representing his district’s priorities in a heavily Democratic body.25. 
26. 27. Lenny Caro
President, Yonkers Chamber of Commerce
Lenny Caro, the first Latino president of the Yonkers Chamber, drives business advocacy, small-business growth, and economic development. Since taking the helm in late 2024, he has strengthened partnerships between city government, developers, and local employers to support Yonkers’ ongoing commercial expansion.28. Joseph Paul 

Robert Jacobson Pharmacy (also known as Jacobson's Pharmacy) is a longstanding independent pharmacy located at 231 Ashburton Avenue. Joesph is frequently mentioned for excellent customer service and follow-up. Jacobsons is widely recognized as Yonkers’ oldest pharmacy, with roots dating back to the 1890s when Robert Jacobson originally opened it. The business has remained independent and family-oriented in spirit, offering full-service prescriptions, medication management programs, immunizations, surgical supplies, and fast & free delivery in the Yonkers area. Customers often praise the personal service — staff know regulars by name, and it emphasizes treating customers like patients rather than transactions.

29. Louis Picani 
President, Teamsters Local 456
Louis Picani heads the powerful Yonkers-based Teamsters local, influencing labor contracts, infrastructure projects, and political endorsements. His advocacy for working families and support for key development initiatives make him a central figure in Yonkers’ union and political landscape.30. 31. Mark Weingarten
Partner, DelBello Donnellan Weingarten Wise & Wiederkehr
Mark Weingarten provides critical legal counsel on Yonkers zoning, land-use, and large-scale real estate deals, including casino redevelopment proposals and waterfront initiatives. His expertise has helped advance billions in development that shape the city’s economic future.32. Martin Ginsburg
Founder and Principal, Ginsburg Development Companies LLC
Martin Ginsburg has transformed Yonkers’ skyline through major multifamily and mixed-use projects along the Hudson River. With decades of experience, he continues to deliver luxury and affordable housing that supports the city’s waterfront and downtown growth.33. Shelley Mayer
New York State Senator (Yonkers)
Shelley Mayer is a leading Yonkers lawmaker who has secured full funding for the state Foundation Aid formula and advanced education and reproductive health legislation. Her work directly benefits Yonkers schools and residents while amplifying the city’s voice in Albany.34. Nader Sayegh
New York State Assembly Member (Yonkers)
Nader Sayegh has delivered tens of millions in state funding for Yonkers schools and infrastructure. As a longtime Yonkers representative, he champions local priorities in education, special needs, and community development from the state level.35. Tara Rosenblum
Anchor and Reporter, News 12 Network
Tara Rosenblum is Westchester’s most visible journalist covering Yonkers politics, development, and major stories. A 63-time Emmy winner, she has been first to report key Yonkers developments, including Mayor Spano’s political prospects, shaping public discourse across the region.

36. Rosalba Corrado Del Vecchio
President, Yonkers Board of Education
Dr. Rosalba Corrado Del Vecchio leads the policy-making body for Yonkers Public Schools, one of New York State’s largest districts. Re-elected as board president, she oversees critical decisions on budget priorities, curriculum, student safety, and partnerships with the superintendent and mayor to address funding challenges and improve outcomes for thousands of students.37. Gail Burns
Vice President, Yonkers Board of Education
Gail Burns serves as vice president of the Yonkers Board of Education, playing a key role in shaping district policy on equity, operations, and academic performance. Her leadership helps guide major initiatives in a district serving diverse communities while collaborating on long-term planning for facilities and programs.38. John Liszewski
Commissioner of Finance, City of Yonkers
John Liszewski oversees the city’s fiscal operations and multi-hundred-million-dollar budget as finance commissioner. His expertise in managing revenues, expenditures, and debt service is essential to sustaining Yonkers’ growth, funding redevelopment projects, and navigating ongoing budget gaps.39. Thomas Meier
Commissioner of Public Works, City of Yonkers
Thomas Meier directs infrastructure, streets, sanitation, and capital projects across the city. As public works commissioner, he plays a central role in supporting Yonkers’ waterfront and downtown revitalization while maintaining essential services that impact daily life for residents and businesses.40. William Fitzpatrick
Commissioner of the Fire Department, City of Yonkers
William Fitzpatrick leads the Yonkers Fire Department, ensuring public safety and emergency response in a densely populated urban environment. His leadership on recruitment, training, and coordination with police and other agencies supports the city’s quality-of-life and economic development goals.41. Shanae Williams
Westchester County Legislator (District 16 – Yonkers)
Shanae Williams represents a significant portion of Yonkers on the Westchester County Board of Legislators and serves as majority whip. She advocates for local priorities including housing, mental health, quality-of-life improvements, and increased funding that directly benefits Yonkers residents and infrastructure.42. José I. Alvarado
Westchester County Legislator (District 17 – Yonkers)
José I. Alvarado, a longtime representative for Yonkers, serves as vice chair of the Board of Legislators. He champions education, community development, and county resources that flow back to the city, amplifying Yonkers’ voice on regional issues.43. James Nolan
Westchester County Legislator (District 15)
James Nolan represents areas including parts of Yonkers as minority whip on the county board. His oversight role and focus on fiscal matters help shape county policies that affect Yonkers’ budget, public safety, and development projects.44. David Tubiolo
Westchester County Legislator (District 14 – Yonkers/Mount Vernon)
David Tubiolo advocates for Yonkers residents on the county level, focusing on transportation, public safety, and economic issues that cross municipal lines and support the city’s ongoing revitalization efforts.45. Rosemarie P. Linton
Trustee, Yonkers Board of Education
Rosemarie P. Linton brings dedicated service to the Yonkers Board of Education, contributing to policy decisions on student achievement, special education, and district governance in one of the state’s major urban scNick Spano (full name: Nicholas A. Spano) is a longtime Yonkers political figure, former New York State legislator, and prominent Albany lobbyist. Nick entered politics young and was elected to the New York State Assembly at age 25. He is best known as the older brother of current Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and a central member of the influential Spano family political dynasty in Yonkers. He is the eldest of 16 children of Leonard and Josephine Spano (their father was a former Westchester County Clerk and a key figure in building the family's political influence). He was widely regarded as a powerful and charismatic figure in Albany and Westchester politics, sometimes referred to informally as an "unofficial mayor" of Yonkers due to his influence. hool systems.46. Sheila Greenwald
Trustee, Yonkers Board of Education
Sheila Greenwald serves as a trustee on the Yonkers Board of Education, focusing on long-term planning, equity initiatives, and community engagement to strengthen educational opportunities across the district.47. Lawrence Sykes
Trustee, Yonkers Board of Education
Lawrence Sykes contributes to board deliberations on budget, facilities, and academic programs as a Yonkers Board of Education trustee, helping guide the district through fiscal and operational challenges.48. Amjed I. Kuri
Trustee, Yonkers Board of Education
Amjed I. Kuri serves on the Yonkers Board of Education, advocating for policies that address the needs of a diverse student population and support partnerships for college and career readiness.49. John Castanaro
Trustee, Yonkers Board of Education
Dr. John Castanaro provides expertise and oversight as a trustee on the Yonkers Board of Education, influencing decisions on curriculum, safety, and resource allocation for the city’s public schools. 

50. MaryAnn McCarra (full name: MaryAnn McCarra-Fitzpatrick) is a well-known hyper-local journalist, editor, and online community moderator in the Yonkers area. She is the longtime Editor (often called Editor-in-Chief) of Yonkers Newswire, a popular Facebook group and hyper-local news page focused on Yonkers news, politics, events, public safety, schools, and community issues. She has been described by community members as the "Hardest Working Woman in Journalism" for her consistent, high-volume posting of local news. MaryAnn orn and raised in Yonkers, New York (she is a graduate of Lincoln High School in Yonkers, class of 1985). She has deep roots in the city and continues to cover it closely even while living in the Peekskill area in recent years. In addition to her editorial work, she is a freelance writer and editor, offering services such as writing, proofreading, and editing. She is also listed in the Poets & Writers directory as a writer. She is active on social media platforms including Instagram, Threads, Tumblr, and X (Twitter) under variations of @mccarrafitzpatrick or @mccarra_maryann, While not a traditional mainstream journalist, she plays a significant role in shaping daily community conversation and information flow in the city. She has a following of almost 150,000 opt-in Facebook group members in the tri-state area.

51.
52. Steven “Bubba” Philp
President, Yonkers Fire Fighters Local 628
Leader of Local 628
The president of Yonkers Fire Fighters Local 628 advocates for firefighters on wages, working conditions, and equipment. The union’s influence shapes emergency services budgeting and operational priorities in the city.53. Rabbi Mendy Hurwitz is the spiritual leader of the Chabad of Yonkers (also known as the Greystone Jewish Center. In May 2008, Rabbi Mendy and his wife Rebbetzin Chanie Hurwitz moved to Yonkers to establish Chabad-Lubavitch of Yonkers.The center is located at 600 North Broadway. Rabbi Mendy Hurwitz is one of the most active and visible religious leaders in Yonkers. He and his wife run a full-service Chabad house that welcomes Jews of all backgrounds and levels of observance.He is particularly known for his warm, inclusive approach and strong interfaith and civic engagement. He frequently collaborates with Yonkers city officials (including Mayor Mike Spano), elected leaders, and other faith communities. Every year, he hosts a large public birthday BBQ that serves the broader Yonkers community, not just the Jewish one. Rabbi Mendy is widely regarded as a pillar of the Yonkers Jewish community and a bridge-builder. He has helped strengthen Jewish life in Yonkers while also participating in broader civic initiatives. His public Chanukah events, community barbecues, and constant outreach have made Chabad of Yonkers a welcoming hub for many residents. He and Rebbetzin Chanie have raised their family in Yonkers and are deeply embedded in the local community. Rabbi Mendy Hurwitz is the energetic, community-oriented and is respected not only within the Jewish community but also by many Yonkers residents and local politicians for his po He continues to serve as of 2026. sitive presence and interfaith work.54. 55.

56. Helen Aggrey
Commissioner of Human Resources, City of Yonkers
Helen Aggrey oversees personnel, civil service, labor relations, and workforce development for the city’s large municipal workforce. Her leadership ensures effective staffing for public safety, infrastructure, and administrative operations while navigating union negotiations and supporting Yonkers’ ongoing growth and service delivery.57. Paul Summerfield
Commissioner of Engineering, City of Yonkers
Paul Summerfield, PE, directs the Department of Engineering, providing critical technical expertise for capital projects, infrastructure maintenance, and major redevelopment initiatives. His role is essential to advancing waterfront, downtown, and transportation improvements that shape Yonkers’ physical landscape and economic future.58. Richard NightingalePresident & CEO, Westhab
Richard Nightingale leads one of the region’s largest affordable and supportive housing developers, with significant ongoing projects in Yonkers. His work addresses the city’s housing crisis and partners with city leadership on community revitalization.59. Esmeralda Hoscoy
Nonprofit Executive, Community Development Organization
Leader of a Yonkers-Focused Nonprofit
The executive director of a major community nonprofit advances housing support, youth programs, immigrant services, or economic opportunity initiatives. Their work partners with city government to strengthen neighborhoods and address equity challenges in Yonkers.

60. Samantha Rosado-Ciriello
President, Yonkers Federation of Teachers
Samantha Rosado-Ciriello leads the powerful teachers’ union in one of the state’s largest districts. She negotiates contracts, advocates for school funding, and influences education policy alongside the superintendent and mayor, playing a key role in labor relations and student outcomes.
61. Denise EgiziacoChief of Staff to the Mayor, City of Yonkers
Denise Egiziaco manages the mayor’s office operations and serves as a key strategist for policy and communications. Her behind-the-scenes leadership helps drive the administration’s agenda on everything from budget negotiations to major development deals.62. Ricardo Gonzalez is an active hyper-local news contributor to the Yonkers Newswire Facebook group and its network of sister "Newswire" pages across Westchester County (and sometimes Connecticut-area groups). He is one of the most frequent and consistent posters in the RoundupNewswires,com Facebook News Discussion Groups. Gonzalez regularly shares links to local news stories — primarily from News 12 Westchester / Hudson Valley, lohud.com, and other regional outlets — covering police incidents, traffic accidents and road issues, as well as, public school budget and safety topics. He also contributes similar content to sister groups such as Westchester County Newswire, White Plains Newswire, New Rochelle Newswire, and others in the same informal network. He functions more as a dedicated news aggregator and sharer and posts help keep the groups updated with timely local stories, often with minimal commentary, allowing community discussion to follow.
63. Arz RaheemTrustee, Yonkers Board of Education
Yonkers Board of Education Trustee
One of the dedicated trustees on the Yonkers Board of Education contributes to policy-making on academics, facilities, equity, and budget oversight in one of New York’s largest school districts, ensuring alignment with community needs and long-term student success.64. Samuel WallisCEO, Yonkers Partners in Education (YPIE)
Samuel Wallis leads one of Yonkers’ most impactful education nonprofits, expanding college-readiness programs and partnerships with the public schools. As CEO since 2025, he has grown YPIE’s reach to ensure more Yonkers students are on track for postsecondary success and career opportunities.65. Father Joe at the church on Ashburton Avenue in Yonkers refers to Rev. Joe A. Francis (also called Father Joe Francis), a priest at the Church of St. Joseph at 141 Ashburton Avenue. St. Joseph’s is a historic Roman Catholic parish (one of the older ones in Yonkers) that offers Masses in both English and Spanish. The church offers a school, weekly neighborhood food pantry and a free Sunday community meal.

66. Patrick “Pat” Grasso
Philanthropist and Civic Organizer
Community Philanthropy Leader
A longtime philanthropist and civic leader mobilizes resources and volunteers for arts, education, health, and neighborhood improvement efforts. Their influence amplifies private support for public projects and fosters collaboration across sectors in Yonkers.67. Rev. Victor Patterson, MDiv

Religious or Grassroots Community Leader
Faith-Based or Neighborhood Organizer
A respected religious or grassroots organizer drives community engagement, social services, and advocacy on local issues such as housing, safety, and youth development. This role bridges diverse populations and amplifies resident voices in city decision-making.68. Roberto Espiritu

Small Business Advocate and Chamber Member
Prominent Local Business Owner/Advocate
A successful small business leader and active Yonkers Chamber participant champions entrepreneurship, local commerce, and workforce training. Their perspective helps shape economic development policies that support Main Street vitality alongside larger projects.69. Ben Crnic
Local Journalist Covering Yonkers Affairs
Yonkers Daily Voice reporter covering Politics and Development
A dedicated reporter or columnist from local or regional media provides in-depth coverage of Yonkers government, schools, development, and community stories. Their reporting informs public debate and holds leaders accountable on key issues.70. Dennis Redmond Jr. is a Yonkers-based content creator, commentator, and occasional contributor to local online discussions, particularly in the Yonkers Voice and Yonkers Newswire Facebook communities. He is best recognized for creating and sharing video content that discusses life in Yonkers, especially from the perspective of Black residents. His content style is grassroots and opinion-driven, focusing on social issues, race, community challenges, and local identity in Yonkers. He has a presence on platforms like YouTube and is active enough to be tagged or highlighted within hyper-local Yonkers online spaces rather than mainstream news outlets. Dennis Redmond Jr. fits into the broader ecosystem of community voices in Yonkers who use social media and independent platforms to discuss city issues outside traditional journalism.

71. Steve Sansone
Commissioner of Parks, Recreation & Conservation, City of Yonkers
Steve Sansone oversees Yonkers’ parks, recreational facilities, and conservation efforts, playing a vital role in enhancing quality of life and supporting neighborhood revitalization. His leadership on community events, green spaces, and partnerships with developers helps integrate recreational amenities into the city’s waterfront and downtown growth initiatives.72. Robert Cacace
Commissioner of Information Technology, City of Yonkers
Robert Cacace directs the city’s technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital services. In an era of smart-city development and efficient government operations, his expertise ensures Yonkers can support major projects like the Lionsgate studio campus and modernize services for residents and businesses.73. Frank McDonald
President, Yonkers Police Benevolent Association
Frank McDonald leads the Yonkers PBA, representing police officers in contract negotiations, safety policy, and labor relations. As a key voice in public safety, he influences budget decisions, recruitment efforts, and coordination with city leadership on community policing and crime reduction strategies.74. 

75. Wilson Kimball
President & CEO, Municipal Housing Authority of the City of Yonkers (MHACY)
Wilson Kimball leads Yonkers’ public housing authority, overseeing thousands of affordable units and major redevelopment initiatives. Since taking the helm, she has strengthened partnerships with city officials and private developers to expand housing options and support neighborhood stability in one of New York’s largest urban housing portfolios.76. Ronald Corti
President & CEO, St. John’s Riverside Hospital
Ronald Corti has guided St. John’s Riverside Hospital for more than two decades, overseeing essential healthcare services, emergency care, and community health programs for Yonkers residents. His leadership has driven strategic expansions and partnerships that enhance workforce health and medical access across the city and broader Westchester region.77. Moshe Botnick
Senior Vice President of Development, Extell Development Company
Moshe Botnick has played a central role in advancing Yonkers’ transformative waterfront projects, including the landmark Hudson Piers development. His expertise in large-scale mixed-use residential and retail projects continues to reshape the city’s Hudson River skyline and drive economic growth in downtown Yonkers.78. Lorraine Lopez
Trustee, Yonkers Board of Education
Lorraine Lopez, a former Yonkers City Council member and longtime community advocate, brings extensive local knowledge to the Board of Education. Appointed in 2025, she contributes to policy decisions on student achievement, equity, and district operations in one of New York State’s largest school systems.79. Pepsii Martinez is a Yonkers resident and active community member known primarily for her strong presence in local social media, especially in the Yonkers Newswire Facebook group and related hyper-local pages. She lives in Yonkers, NY, and frequently posts about local issues, incidents, and daily life in the city. She has been active for several years in the Yonkers online blogging ecosystem, often posting multiple times a day with updates on current events. Pepsii Martinez functions as a community commentator and news sharer and her posts tend to be straightforward, sometimes opinionated, and focused on practical matters affecting Yonkers residents (e.g., traffic, crime, city services, and local government actions). She is well-known among regular users of Yonkers Newswire and other social media pages where her posts often generate big discussions.80. Al Frey
Executive Director, Yonkers Workforce Development Board
Al Frey leads workforce training and economic opportunity programs that connect Yonkers residents to jobs in growing sectors such as film production, construction, and healthcare. His initiatives support the city’s redevelopment goals and help build a skilled local labor pool. 

81. Hershey Friedman
Chairman, Azorim Development
Hershey Friedman has spearheaded transformative residential development in downtown Yonkers, including the landmark Hudson 44 tower — now the city’s tallest building. His leadership in delivering hundreds of new housing units with mixed-income components has accelerated Yonkers’ skyline transformation and downtown revitalization.82. Jack Klein
Director & COO, Azorim Development
Jack Klein oversees day-to-day execution of major Yonkers projects, including the recent grand opening of Hudson 44. His operational expertise in large-scale mixed-use and residential developments has strengthened partnerships with city officials and contributed to the ongoing multifamily boom along the Hudson River.83. Marisol Mancebo
Executive Director, Yonkers Police Athletic League (PAL)
Marisol Mancebo leads the Yonkers PAL, delivering youth sports, mentoring, and anti-violence programs that serve thousands of city children. Her community-focused initiatives build positive relationships between youth and law enforcement while supporting neighborhood safety and development goals.84. LaMont Russell
Community Organizer & Economic Development Strategist
LaMont Russell, a lifelong South Yonkers resident, drives grassroots organizing and community economic development efforts focused on housing, job access, and neighborhood revitalization. His advocacy amplifies resident voices and forges partnerships to address equity and opportunity in Yonkers’ diverse communities.85. Janet Humes
Community Organizer, Catholic Charities Day Laborers Program
Janet Humes has organized day laborers and immigrant communities in Yonkers for over a decade, providing workforce support, advocacy, and social services. Her leadership bridges gaps in employment and integration, contributing to stronger, more inclusive neighborhoods amid the city’s growth.

86. Christina Gilmartin
Deputy Commissioner or Senior Administrator, City of Yonkers
Christina Gilmartin plays a key operational role in city administration, supporting interdepartmental coordination and execution of major initiatives. Her contributions help ensure smooth delivery of services and alignment with the mayor’s priorities on development and resident needs.87. Matthew Gallagher
Senior City Official / Operational Leader, City of Yonkers
Matthew Gallagher contributes to core city operations and policy implementation across departments. His work supports the administration’s focus on efficient government services, infrastructure, and community engagement in a growing urban environment.88. Aníbal Soler Jr.Superintendent, Yonkers Public Schools
Aníbal Soler Jr. has led dynamic change across New York’s fourth-largest school district since taking the helm. The former Schenectady leader has managed major budget challenges, implemented the statewide cellphone ban, maintained high graduation rates above 90%, and partnered with Mayor Spano to advocate in Albany for funding to avoid deep cuts. Soler’s focus on safety, equity, and student outcomes makes him a pivotal voice in Yonkers’ future.89. Charlene IndelicatoCommissioner of Planning & Development, City of Yonkers
Appointed by Mayor Spano in 2025, Charlene Indelicato brings over 30 years of city planning and municipal expertise to lead zoning, land-use, and major redevelopment efforts. She is central to advancing waterfront projects, downtown towers, and sustainable growth initiatives that define Yonkers’ future skyline and economy.90. Pedro Betanzos
Community & Cultural Leader, Hudson River Museum / Yonkers Arts Advocate
Pedro Betanzos promotes arts, culture, and community engagement through initiatives tied to the Hudson River Museum and Yonkers cultural scene. His efforts enhance quality of life and support tourism and downtown revitalization.91. Evan Bishop

Executive Director, Yonkers Arts
Evan Bishop leads Yonkers Arts, shaping cultural programming, youth initiatives, murals, community exhibits, and free public events that enrich neighborhood life. His leadership enhances the city’s creative identity and supports downtown revitalization through arts-driven engagement and tourism.92. Masha Turchinsky
Director and CEO, Hudson River Museum
Masha Turchinsky directs the Hudson River Museum, Westchester’s largest cultural institution, overseeing galleries, planetarium, educational programs, and community events with strong Yonkers ties. Her vision elevates arts access, environmental education, and cultural tourism that benefit Yonkers residents and the broader waterfront area.93. 94. Destiny Baker
Youth & Equity Program Leader, YWCA Yonkers
Destiny Baker advances youth empowerment, education, and social services through YWCA Yonkers initiatives. Her work addresses equity gaps, supports young women and families, and builds community resilience in diverse Yonkers neighborhoods.95. Kevin Cacace
Former President & Treasurer, Yonkers Chamber of Commerce
Kevin Cacace, a longtime business leader and former Chamber president, continues to influence economic advocacy and small-business strategies as treasurer. His experience strengthens connections between Yonkers businesses, developers, and city government.96. Dean Bender
Partner, Thompson & Bender
Dean Bender helps position Yonkers as “Hollywood on the Hudson” through strategic public relations and branding tied to the Lionsgate studio and major redevelopment. His communications expertise elevates the city’s image and supports economic and cultural growth initiatives.97. Elizabeth Bracken-Thompson
Partner, Thompson & Bender
Elizabeth Bracken-Thompson leverages media and communications expertise to promote Yonkers projects, events, and downtown revitalization. Her work with Thompson & Bender enhances visibility for housing, film, and business developments across the city.98. Geoffrey Thompson
Partner, Thompson & Bender
Geoffrey Thompson provides strategic communications counsel for Yonkers initiatives, helping amplify regional and national attention on the city’s waterfront, downtown, and Lionsgate-related progress.99.Anietra Guzmán-Santana
Senior Nonprofit Leader
Executive Director, Family Service Society of Yonkers (or similar key nonprofit)
A senior executive at a prominent Yonkers family support or social services nonprofit delivers critical programs in mental health, counseling, and community assistance. Their leadership partners with city agencies to address local needs and strengthen family stability.100. Jeff Loughlin
Construction Trades Union Leader
President or Key Official, Yonkers-Area Building Trades Council
A respected leader from Yonkers construction and building trades unions influences labor relations, workforce development, and participation in major infrastructure, waterfront, and redevelopment projects. Their advocacy shapes job creation and ensures local labor benefits from the city’s growth. 
101. Jonathan Alvarez
Executive Director, 914 United Inc.
Jonathan Alvarez leads 914 United, focusing on community support, economic opportunity, and immigrant services in the Yonkers area. His organization partners with local government and nonprofits to tackle poverty and build stronger neighborhoods.
102.