While the media has been abuzz all week with anticipation about cyclist Lance Armstrong's doping admission, at Pelham Bicycle Center the reaction Thursday afternoon was decidedly low-key.

"What Lance Armstrong did, it won't hurt the sport," said Pelham Bicycle Center manager Pedro Sanchez.

The interview, which Armstrong taped with Oprah Winfrey earlier this week, will be broadcast tonight and Friday.

Armstrong reportedly admits to using performance enhancing drugs, allegations he denied throughout his more than decade-long cycling career.

Armstrong's accomplishments included 7 Tour De France victories and a bronze Olympic medal. All those honors have been stripped from him and he has also resigned from his own foundation- LIVESTRONG- which supports cancer survivors.

At Pelham Bicycle Center, Sanchez said he thought Armstrong's entire career has been a mixed bag for the sport. While Armstrong is arguably the world's most famous cyclist, his celebrity hasn't necessarily influenced the sport as strongly or positively as one might think.

And Sanchez saw at least one negative impact Armstrong's celebrity had on the sport...

"When I started cycling, it was easy to get a bike and get started," said Sanchez. A starter bicycle might be found for $200 to $500, he remembers.

But as more attention focused on Armstrong as a celebrity, Sanchez says he also noticed the price of equipment and accesibility grow to match.

Sanchez pointed out a LIVESTRONG special edition bicycle priced at $8,000. Part of the bicycle's pricetag is donated to Armstong's cancer foundation, but much of that cost reflects Armstrong's endorsement power.

Now only time will tell whether consumers will be disillusioned enough by Armstrong's admission to drive down the price of equipment like the LIVESTRONG-branded merchandise.

Sanchez said he thought Armstrong's doping admission would bring short-term attention to the celebrity but not long-term harm to cycling. 

"It all depends on how you look at it," said Sanchez. "It's all about the publicity to the sport."

What do you think? Will Armstrong's admission have a negative impact on the sport of cycling? What about the business of cycling?

A five-bedroom, four-bathroom home in White Plains—on the Scarsdale border—is on the market and asking just shy of half-a-million.

The stucco Center Hall Colonial is listed at $550,000, and overlooks the second hole of the nearby Fenway Golf Course.

The house measures in at just over 2,000-square-feet.

For more photos, click here.

Information provided by AOL Real Estate.

Following the Newtown, CT, elementary school tragedy just over one month ago, stories concerning firearms have become daily fare — New York State has tightened gun legislation, residents have assailed an online pistol permit map and, Thursday, two weapons were swiped from a Rockland home.

And despite Gov. Andrew Cuomo and his politicos being the first statesmen to alter law following the Dec. 14 shooting, some residents are calling for more. The civic action group MoveOn.org has organized a slew of grassroots gathering Thursday night, asking citizens to address gun violence in their regions.

"The tragedy in Newtown, CT was the last straw," the group pens on their website. "We've got to keep the call for change loud and visible to move our leaders from mere words to meaningful action. That will take consistent, creative, sustained action from us to end gun violence in our communities."

Two ad hoc meetings will be held in Westchester—one in White Plains, and one in Mount Vernon. The White Plains meet-up is slated for 7 p.m. at the Community Unitarian Church; 33 people have already signed on.

"Join us in a moment of silence followed by group discussions of what White Plains residents can do to end gun violence," one organizer writes. "Possibilities to consider: hand gun collection events, local gun control legislation, a web-site allowing public declarations of being a non-gun home."

Several other gathering are scheduled for the same time in New York City, Connecticut and beyond. To find a meeting nearest Harrison, click here.

Playland will hold its annual job fairs on Saturday, Jan. 19 and March 9 at the Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave., White Plains, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are looking for people to fill the following positions: cashiers, rides, custodial, maintenance, lifeguards and EMTs.

You must bring your Social Security card, valid photo I.D. and three references. Applicants ages 16 and 17 who plan to complete their application at the fair must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

You can request by phone or print your application at RyePlayland.org and send to:

Human Resources

Playland Park, Rye 10580

Or to playlandjobs@westchestergov.com. Call 914-813-7010 for information. There will be on the spot interviews given for the first 300 applicants who attend. 

This article was contributed by Westchester.gov

The Building & Realty Institute of Westchester and the Mid-Hudson Region presented a $10,000 check to benefit the Westchester County Disaster Recovery Fund, which was set up by Westchester County Executive Robert P. Astorino in partnership with the United Way of Westchester and Putnam to help provide long-term assistance to county residents in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

“We truly understand the severity of the loss because we are in construction and realty, and we wanted to have a positive impact in the recovery effort,” said Mike Beldotti, president of the Building & Realty Institute. “We are Westchester-based, so it was important that our contribution helped people locally.”

The fund – which will address long-term needs that are either not covered by insurance, other nonprofit agencies or government programs, such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – is being administered by the United Way of Westchester and Putnam. The deadline to apply for assistance is Jan. 23.

Separately, Westchester residents and business owners have until Jan. 28 to file for federal assistance for damages associated with Hurricane Sandy under an extension announced by FEMA.

“It’s really great to see the groundswell of support for Westchester residents affected by Hurricane Sandy,” said Naomi Adler, CEO of the United Way of Westchester and Putnam. “United Way staff is still getting calls from residents in desperate situations and we are inspired by donations like this so our neighbors can finally get help.”

To make a donation or to learn more, visit www.UWWP.org, click on the “GIVE” button, and select “Disaster Fund.” Checks can be made out to “United Way of Westchester and Putnam - Disaster Recovery Fund” and mailed to the United Way of Westchester and Putnam at 336 Central Ave., White Plains, NY, 10606. You may also dial 2-1-1 for recovery assistance.

 “I want to thank the Building & Realty Institute for its generous contribution in support of the people and families of Westchester,” said Astorino. “The Disaster Recovery Fund will be an important tool in helping our residents rebuild after the destruction of Hurricane Sandy. This is a neighbors-helping-neighbors fund. The money people donate will stay right here in Westchester.”

Founded in 1946, the Building & Realty Institute is one of the largest construction, development and real-estate related industry trade associations in the state. The Westchester-based organization has more than 1,500 members, primarily in the Westchester and mid-Hudson Valley region.

For further reading:

Two Handguns Stolen in New City Home Burglary

All Souls to Host an Interfaith Celebration in Honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Armstrong Admission Won't Hurt Cycling, Local Merchant Says

Police checking in on a White Plains bar early Sunday morning caught a man using cocaine in a bathroom, according to an arrest report.

Joseph Cipriano, 26, of 118 Ridgeway Ave., White Plains, was arrested at about 1:37 a.m. in Black Bear Saloon on Mamaroneck Ave. Police say Cipriano was acting suspiciously in a bathroom stall inside the bar. The White Plains man could be heard sniffing something in the stall, which police believe was consistent with using cocaine, according to an arrest report.

Police asked Cipriano if he was carrying any drugs and he handed over a cigarette box containing about 700 milligrams of cocaine, according to an arrest report. He was arrested at the scene.

Cipriano was charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a misdemeanor, and released on $100 bail.

This release comes from the Office of the State Comptroller:

State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli today announced he has approved a $3.14 billion contract between the state Thruway Authority and Tappan Zee Constructors to design and build the new Tappan Zee bridge.

“Replacing the Tappan Zee Bridge is New York state’s largest single infrastructure project and is vital to our economic prosperity,” DiNapoli said.  “To protect taxpayers, my office will closely scrutinize the Thruway’s oversight of the construction of the new bridge. The Thruway Authority is responsible for proposing a financing plan and must live up to its commitment to pursue the lowest cost options and ensure that its customers are paying the lowest possible tolls. Every effort must be taken to minimize costs for this project and protect the long-term fiscal health of the Thruway system.”

DiNapoli’s contract approval does not constitute approval of any financial plan, toll increase or debt issuance. The Comptroller’s office will examine these matters separately and will monitor and audit the Thruway’s finances to hold the Authority accountable on issues of transparency, fiscal stability and operational efficiency.

The 66-month contract was won by Tappan Zee Constructors, a joint venture of Fluor Enterprises, Inc., American Bridge Company, Granite Construction Northeast, Inc. and Traylor Bros., Inc.  The Thruway Authority received three bids for the project.

The approved contract takes effect immediately.

To read the approval letter, visit: http://www.osc.state.ny.us/press/releases/jan13/tappan-zee-bridge-contract.pdf

The publisher of The Journal News today said the newspaper has removed an interactive map listing details of handgun permit holders in Westchester and Rockland counties from its web site, Lohud.com.

The map and a report about gun permits in the two counties was published in the wake of the deadly shooting in Newtown, CT, where 20 students and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School were killed.

"In the wake of the Sandy Hook shootings, The Journal News thought the community should know where gun permit holders in their community were, in part to give parents an opportunity make careful decisions about their children’s safety," said publisher Janet Hasson in a letter to readers. "But public reaction to the posting of names and street addresses was swift and divided. Many in the community expressed their gratitude for The Journal News’ decision to make the information available, but permit holders were outraged at what they considered to be an invasion of privacy. Gun owners from across the country vocally conveyed their anger and accused The Journal News of having exposed permit holders and non-permit holders alike to the risk of burglaries and other crimes. Hundreds of threats were made to Journal News staffers."

Hasson said the decision to remove the gun permit data from Lohud.com was not a concession to the newspaper's critics. She said the data has been public for 27 days and that those who would want to view the information have had time to do so. She also said that as time passes, the data will become outdated and inaccurate.

In reaction to the publishing of the data, the state Legislature included changes to state law on the release of gun permit information as part of a gun violence packaged initiated by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in his State of the State message last week.

The changes would allow gun permit holders to opt out of having their information become public information. And, it includes a 120 moratorium on the release of permit information.

In response to the paper's decision to remove the data, state Sen. Greg Ball, R-Patterson, who was vocal critic of the map, issued a statement.

"Thank God the Journal News has finally realized the error in their judgment and done the right thing," Ball said. "Whether they did this responding to the public's outcry or because they were simply fearful of getting sued due to the rash of burglaries and threats against law enforcement and victims of domestic violence, we will never know. Regardless, I am proud to have passed legislation keeping the Journal News from doing this ever again and proud to have been shoulder to shoulder with thousands of residents who were dealt a crappy hand by the eggheads at the Journal News. I look forward to them creating an interactive map of level three sexual predators, rapists and felons with illegal gun purchases, but I won't hold my breath."

Westchester County Executive Robert Astorino urged the newspaper to take down the permit information, and today Rockland County Clerk Paul Piperato asked the newspaper to remove the map in light of the provisions included in the New York Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement Act.

"From the moment the Journal News published the gun owners map, it put law abiding citizens, including judges, police officers and victims of domestic violence, at risk," Astorino said tonight. "I had asked the publisher to take down the map as a matter of public safety and common sense. Though four weeks too late, I am glad to see the Journal News has finally done the right thing and taken the map down."

The newspaper originally also sought gun permit information from Putnam County, but officials there refused to release the information — although it was subject to the state's Freedom of Information Law.

"As a news organization, we are constantly defending the public’s right to know," Hasson said in the letter. "Consequently we do not endorse the way the legislature has chosen to limit public access to gun permit data. The statute is very broad and allows anyone who meets certain criteria within qualifying categories to keep their permit information private. When the moratorium concludes, far fewer permit holders will be identifiable, and those who want to know which houses on their block may have guns will not be able to get that information. But we are not deaf to voices who have said that new rules should be set for gun permit data."

BCT presents "Once Upon A Mattress." Jan. 19. 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a new spin on the classic tale, "The Princess and the Pea" that includes songs, humor, romance, and adventure. Written by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller and Marshall Barer. Music by Mary Rodgers Lyrics by Marshall Barer. Directed by David Fritsch. Produced by Teresa Donkin, Carolyn Nielsen and Christina Dieck. Musical direction by Matt Vanacoro. Choreography by Jessica Vanacoro. Performance schedule: Jan 18 - 7:30 p.m.; 19 - 2 and 7:30; 20 - 2; 25 - 7:30; 26 - 2 and 7:30; 27 - 2. Email bctonline@optonline.net to buy tickets. Include name, phone number, address, number of tickets and time/date of performance. Someone will contact you to confirm ticket order. You can also leave your ticket order information with the Bedford Recreation and Parks office at (914) 666-7004. BCT will call you to confirm your ticket order. www.bedfordcommunitytheatre.org. Bedford Hills Community House, 74 Main St, Bedford Hills. $20.

Random Farms Kids' Theater Presents "Legally Blonde." Jan. 26. All day. The Random Farms Kids' Theater will present "Legally Blonde" at The Tarrytown Music Hall, Jan. 26 through Feb. 3, 2013. Random Farms Kids' actors explore themes of love, friendship and achieving one's dreams through the scope of comedy and musical theater. Performances: Jan. 26 -- 3 p.m., 8 p.m, 27 -- 1 p.m., 7 p.m.. Go to www.tarrytownmusichall.org for more information. $18.

Cornell Professor: "30 Lessons for Living" Talk at The Osborn. Jan. 24. 7:30 p.m. Cornell professor Dr. Karl Pillemer shares 30 Lessons for Living: Tried and True Advice from the Wisest Americans, a collection of life lessons from the "wisest" Americans. RSVP is required: 1-800-815-8534 or RSVP@theosborn.org, The Osborn Retirement Community, 101 Theall Rd, Rye. FREE.

PLAYWRITING with Marilyn Heberling at EMBARK @ EMC. Jan. 19. 7 p.m. Adults and seniors learn playwriting techniques from Marilyn Heberling on Thursdays beginning Jan. 17. Heberling is a 30-year theater veteran. Registration in progress. Energy Movement Center, 925 South St, Peekskill. $12.

Stories, Puppets, & Flannel Board Games. Jan. 25. 11 a.m. Head to the Brewster library for story hour with puppets and a flannel board game every Friday with children ages 2 to 5. Brewster Public Library, 79 Main St, Brewster. FREE.

ENVIRONS: IMAGES ENCOUNTERED IN PIERMONT & VICINITY by LAURIE PEEK. Jan. 21. All day. View Laurie Peek’s photographs of everyday objects and environments in Piermont and surrounding areas. Her works examine wet leaves, a crushed can, parking lots, watery reflections, and more, revealing the magic in the mundane. Peek was a staff photographer for NYC’s Dept. of General Services where she documented the city's community gardens and Mayor Ed Koch, and her photos have appeared in The New York Times, The Boston Globe, The Brooklyn Paper, The Progressive, The Village Voice, City Limits, and 2003 Oscar-nominated documentary film "Tupac: Resurrection." Attend the closing reception next weekend on Sunday, Jan. 27, from 2 to 4 p.m. Dennis P. McHugh Piermont Public Library, 25 W Fly Wheel Park,Piermont. FREE.

Mr. Kurt at Night Concert. Jan. 24. 6 p.m. Take the kids to a 6 p.m. concert with musical performer Mr. Kurt at the New City Library. One adult per child, ages 1 and up allowed. Adults must show their New City or West Nyack Library cards at the door. New City Library, 220 N Main St, New City. FREE.

Across the region, volunteers are participating in different events as part of the "A Day Of Service" initiative to honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  National, state and local organizations have rallied the support of volunteers to assist others in a wide-range of activities.

In Tarrytown, the Volunteer Center of the United Way organized volunteers who came to the Institutes of Applied Human Dynamics (IAHD) to work with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

"This event opens up opportunities to integrate people in the community with our clients and give them the experience of working with different groups of people, and give back to the community while honoring Dr. King" said IAHD innovation developer Candace Munroe who helped to organize the event.

Volunteers from several groups and corporations including Starbucks and Americorps joined individual volunteers to help clients make MLK collages and bake cookies.

Editor's Note: Following are Patch users' comments on stories that ran in Westchester, Rockland, and Putnam Counties.

Journal News Removes Gun Map from Website

"Score one for the power of the people!" -- The Merm

... and ... 

"The original reason was lame and this is just as lame." -- James Bankhart

Approved: $3.14 Billion Tappan Zee Bridge Contract

"Great! more jobs!!!" -- claudia jones

...

"$14 tolls???" -- Randall Petronus

... and ... 

"So much for our state environmental quality review laws...water under the bridge. Let's pray the plan does not have the negative enviornmental impacts projected by Riverkeeper and other regional environmental groups. Guess we must find out afterwards...not exactly rational, sustainable planning practices. This is a disappointment to many." -- Don Pachner

Guest Commentary: 'Yorktown Should Continue Fluoridating Its Water Supply'

"I am no health nut. When they stated fluoridating water it was necessary. Today as I said you have fluoridated toothpaste, rinses etc. There was a concern that maybe it was so pervasive, maybe people were getting too much. People actually tend to put too much toothpaste on a brush. I think maybe we don't need to spend all that money for a problem that does not exist. If we were to expend money for water quality I would would rather see filtration and ozone treatment rather than chlorine added. Ozone is used extensively in Europe. It is cheaper and does not rust pipes." -- Bob Rohr

... and ... 

"Bob, I grew up in a community that didn't fluoridate their water. My teeth are extremely cavity filled. My mother (god rest her soul) was a nurse practitioner and always loathed that my hometown didn't. It's pretty standard practice and the AMA and ADA both recommend it. The only reason not to do it is if Yorktown is banking on drawing of the water district general fund (I hear it's at about 5 million today) to give us all "tax cuts." They did draw over 800K this year for no good other reason than to offset other tax raises, right? I'm not being sarcastic. I don't pretend to be a tax expert and you have exhibited a good grasp of the local budgets. Any insight would be appreciated. I think if you look at any of the neighboring communities, a majority (if not all) do it." -- Evan Bray

Rockland Reacts to Armstrong Drug Confession

"Yesterday I heard one TV commentator bemoaning the fact that today's sports heroes are less honest than sports heroes of the past. I couldn't help finding that assertion amusing, because it put me in mind of "Champion", the famous short story by Ring Lardner, which became a major motion picture. Many may recall that "Champion" was about a boxing hero who, despite his "Mr. Clean" image, was actually a complete swine in every way. The movie version dated from the early 1950s, but the original story was written way back in 1916, almost a century ago. The author, Ring Lardner, began his career as a newspaper sports writer, so there is little doubt that, despite the fact that the character in "Champion" may have been fictitious, Lardner undoubtedly knew athletes like him. Consequently, it shouldn't come as any great surprise to learn that an athlete turns out to have feet of clay today, because obviously it is nothing new." -- Robert Guttman

NY State: Cuomo Seeks $8.75 for Minimum Wage

"A increase in the minimum wage is a positive. Hopefully it will be enacted on the federal level too. No one who works hard should live in poverty. JM Tuckahoe, NY" -- jeff meyer

... and ... 

"The increase is created by the high cost of living here in NY. Where is fiscal conservative governing gone? All levels of government spending are putting debt onto our children and grandchildren. Minimum wage will be meaningless to the future of American jobs unless we balance our spending and revenue." -- Andrew Wiley

NRA Responds to President Obama's Gun Control Proposals

"If you read the federalist papers and writings of the founders you will have to come to the conclusion that after taking up arms against a tyrannical ruling government, freeing themselves and trying to create a system of government that wouldn't allow it to happen again, that the second amendment is very much about keeping the citizens armed so as to protect themselves from the government" -- Teleman

"Ask the parents of the victim babies of Sandy Hook who viewed autopsy photos of their six year olds ripped into pieces, riddled with bullets from a magazine that instantaneously tore their babies apart...lost faces, decapitations, bodies almost cut in half...all while they huddled together in terror so this free American could use this weapon of mass destruction. Your "car: argument is absurd and insulting in light of these facts." -- MJ

Editor's Note: The following information was provided by New York State Police:

In an effort to help the public, a website and hotline have been established to answer all questions about the New York SAFE Act.

The Governor’s Office has established http://www.nysafeact.com/.

On the website, gun owners and licensed dealers will find a list of frequently asked questions that have been compiled and answered by experts on this new law.

There is also a section on what is and is not considered an assault weapon. This includes photos of weapons, banned features, a list of some of the banned weapons, and those firearms that are NOT considered assault weapons.

The New York State Police have established a hotline 1-855-LAW-GUNS.

The hotline will be available starting Monday, January 21, 2013.

The hotline will run for normal business hours Monday through Friday and will be staffed by State Police members.

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, January 21, the Metro-North will operate on a Saturday schedule with 36 additional trains. Click here for details.  

This week, the NBA All-Star starters were announced. For the Eastern Conference, the starters are LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, of the Miami Heat, Carmelo Anthony, of the New York Knicks, and Rajon Rondo and Kevin Garnett, of the Boston Celtics.

Starters are selected by fan voting, and the remaining seven spots are picked by coaches. Both local teams, the Knicks and Brooklyn Nets, have some players who will be in the mix for those seven spots.

Tyson Chandler, center, New York Knicks

The reigning Defensive Player of the Year anchors a Knicks defense that hasn’t really matched last year’s defense, but Chandler is still a top defender in the league. However, what has his All-Star chances looking good this year is his offense. Chandler is averaging 12.4 points a game, which would be a career-best for the 12-year veteran. He’s currently averaging 11 rebounds a game, placing him third in the east, which would also be the first time he’s averaged double-digit rebounds over the course of a season in five years. Perhaps more noteworthy, Chandler has become an incredibly efficient offensive player. He leads the league in shooting percentage (.673 percent), true shooting percentage (.697 percent), efficient field goal percentage (.673 percent) and offensive rating (138.3).

Brook Lopez, center, Brooklyn Nets

While Lopez’s scoring is down — his 18.6 points a game are the lowest he’s averaged since scoring 13 points a game his rookie season — plenty of other stats are up. Lopez has built up a reputation for himself as a poor rebounder, especially for a seven-footer, but this season he’s hauling in 7.3 rebounds a game, the most since his second year in the league when he averaged 8.6. He’s also averaging 2.1 blocks a game, placing him fourth in the east and seventh overall. His Player Efficiency Rating (PER) is 30.2, placing him fourth in the league behind James, Kevin Durant, Chris Paul and ahead of Anthony, who places fifth.

J.R. Smith, shooting guard, New York Knicks

This has been a breakout year for Smith, who is scoring a career-best 16.7 points a game for the Knicks. While Smith is coming off the bench, he’s also playing 33.6 minutes a game, which would be a career high by a little less than six minutes a contest for the nine-year veteran. He’s also averaging career-highs in rebounds (5.1 a game) and assists (3 per contest). Additionally, Smith’s profile was raised a bit around the league thanks to the two game-winners he hit as time expired, one against the Charlotte Bobcats and another against the Phoenix Suns. Of course, given the limited number of spots, bench players aren’t usually selected for All-Star teams, but if Smith keeps up his level of play, he’ll be in the running for Sixth Man of the Year.

Deron Williams, point guard, Brooklyn Nets

The star Nets guard hasn’t really played up to his usual level of play this year, averaging below career averages in points per game, assists per game, field goal percentage and three-point shooting percentage. Sill, Williams is sixth in the league in assists per game (7.7) and 11th in offensive win shares (3.4). Also, there’s some other competition at the guard positions in the east that could make it difficult for Williams, and Smith, to sneak onto the team. Other guards who have made strong cases for all-star spots this year including Kyrie Irving, of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Jrue Holiday, of the Philadelphia 76ers, Brandon Jennings, of the Milwaukee Bucks, and Luol Deng, of the Chicago Bulls.

So, who do you think should be picked as an All-Star reserve?

Blogger Tina Traster wonders: "who has a gun in my neighborhood?"

Her question dovetails perfectly with the release of The Journal News' gun map—and for Traster, the marriage is causing agita.

"Over the years, we've fought with neighbors over one thing or another," she writes. "Tempers have flared. Some spiteful things have been done, though nothing I’d categorize as violent. [But] knowing that many have guns—or at least a permit to own one—gives this a new spin."

And with Gov. Andrew Cuomo signing into law the toughest firearm legislation last Tuesday, the debate—and map—show no sign of waning.

(And apropos: what did Reagan have to say about guns?)

If gun discussion takes the gold in headline domination this week, Lance Armstrong wins the silver. (Which, at this point, may be the only medal remaining in his inventory.)

Blogger Rob Heinemann details the disgraced cyclist's path over the past several years—from his first Olympic appearance to his confessional interview with Oprah. 

On a lighter note: one blogger wonder if a soda calorie is tantamount to a carrot calorie. And another writes why Facebook turns us into perennial teens.

__

If you're interested in blogging for Patch and sharing your story, insights, opinions or photos, email kevin@patch.com.

Plans for a new Tappan Zee Bridge, the state's single largest infrastructure project, moved forward Jan. 18 when the State Comptroller and Attorney General approved a contract for the design and building of the structure. 

Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and Attorney General Eric Schneiderman approved a $3.142 billion contract with Tappan Zee Constructors (TZC), a consortium that includes Fluor Enterprises, American Bridge Company, Granite Construction Northeast, and Traylor Bros.

“The final approval on this contract is another milestone for the new bridge project that is now ready to break ground this year,” said Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. “After a decade of delay, we now have a final approved bid that will give the Hudson Valley a new bridge with the best price, the shortest construction time, require the least amount of dredging and be a foundation for future mass transit. The transformation of this bridge project represents what state government can accomplish in the new New York.”

Still to be approved are a financial plan, toll increase, and debt insurance. 

“Replacing the Tappan Zee Bridge is New York state’s largest single infrastructure project and is vital to our economic prosperity,” DiNapoli said. “To protect taxpayers, my office will closely scrutinize the Thruway’s oversight of the construction of the new bridge. The Thruway Authority is responsible for proposing a financing plan and must live up to its commitment to pursue the lowest cost options and ensure that its customers are paying the lowest possible tolls. Every effort must be taken to minimize costs for this project and protect the long-term fiscal health of the Thruway system.”

TZC said they are pleased to be moving ahead. The group won the bid after coming in 20 percent lower than the other two competitive bids for the project. The plan is based on a five-to-six-year time line. As Patch has reported, construction is expected to begin as soon as spring. 

The new bridge will have eight lanes, emergency lanes and extra-wide shoulders for express bus service. There will be a bicycle and pedestrian path, and at least three highway speed E-ZPass lanes. 

New York State Thruway Board of Directors Chairman Howard P. Milstein called the project, "vital to the long-term economic well-being of the lower Hudson Valley and the entire region."

After the approval was announced, DiNapoli said to CBS News, “The big question is still out there — how do we pay for it?” 

12 Members of 3 Mob Families Charged with Garbage Industry Racketeering

A multi-year investigation into organized crime's alleged control of the commercial waste-hauling industry by the US Attorney's office, FBI, and Westchester County Police has resulted in charges against 32 individuals in the New York City metropolitan area and parts of New Jersey. Twelve individuals face indictments under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (“RICO”), representing three mob families. 

Bomb Squad Investigates Suspicious Package on Saw Mill

The Westchester County bomb squad was called to investigate a suspicious package on the Saw Mill Parkway in Yonkers. The road was closed for 15 minutes in both directions before it was determined that the package contained clothing and personal items. There was no identification in the package. 

Neighbor Crashes Car Into Irvington Home

A man who claims he thought he was stepping on his break but instead stepped on his gas pedal crashed his car into his neighbor's home. The Honda Civic crashed into the front steps of the home and was hanging over a ledge, placing half of the car in the home's driveway. No one was injured. 

Police: 15 Pounds of Veal Stolen from Port Chester Store

Employees of Port Chester's Restaurant Depot called police after noticing an Elmsford man placing 15 pounds of veal under vegetables he had paid for and leaving the store. 

Nyack Store Owner, Clerks Charged in Food Stamp Fraud

Rockland County Officials charged the Nyack Food Mart owners and five of its clerks with food stamp fraud after the accused allegedly paid cash for food stamps. The accused also allegedly allowed the purchase of restricted items using the food stamps, including alcohol and cigarettes. 

Jeep Stolen From Hurricane Sandy Battered Trailer Park Recovered

A Stony Point man has been charged with fourth-degree grand larceny and fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property. The man was found to be in possession of a 1992 Jeep that went missing from the Ba Mar Mobile Home Park during Hurricane Sandy clean up efforts. 

Cops: Putnam Man Faces Charges After Family Reports Stolen Car

A 23-year-old Mahopac man is accused of stealing a vehicle belonging to his family member. At the time of his arrest, the man is alleged to have been in possession of a hypodermic needle, which added a misdemeanor charge to his case. 

For everyone looking for something special to do on MLK Day, here's 5 Things to consider:

New Rochelle Community Action Program Annual Martin Luther King Day Breakfast, Monday, January 21, 8 a.m. Bethesda Baptist Church, 99 Lincoln Ave., New Rochelle, NY. Three New Rochelle residents will be honored. Jean Carol Anderson will receive the Drum Major Award, which honors an individual who exemplifies the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s commitment to service. She is a graduate of the College of New Rochelle and was employed with the County of Westchester for 30 years. She is very active in her community, serving as Commissioner of The New Rochelle Youth Bureau, a member of the Westchester County Youth Bureau, Democratic District Leader for District 3, Member and Past President of The Interreligious Council of New Rochelle, and Vice President of the New Rochelle Branch of Westchester Black Political Caucus. Barbara Davis will receive the Jaquetta Cole Community Service award. She is the Community Relations Coordinator for the New Rochelle Public Library and City Historian for New Rochelle. Marion L. Gray will receive the Napoleon Holmes Award for community activism. Ms Gray has dedicated her life to the advancement of African Americans in the City of New Rochelle through the NAACP, the New Rochelle CAP and other anchor institutions. Program Volunteer Service Awards will go to three women whose volunteer service at the New Rochelle Community Action Program has significantly contributed to its success: Monica Rosario, Patricia Lester and Vivian Spandy.

MLK Day Ski Trip: Belleayre Mountain, Monday, January 21, 7 a.m. White Plains Transfer Center, 16 Ferris Ave, White Plains, NY. Join Westchester Skiers & Riders Ski & Snowboard club for our MLK Day trip to Belleayre Mountain in the Catskills. Families with little ones are welcome! Belleayre is one of our Catskills favorites, only 2 hrs away from Westchester. Lift tickets are $38 for Westchester Skiers & Riders Members. Group will leave at 7 a.m. from the WP TransCenter, across from the White Plains Train Station. Please RSVP and get details through our website, Westchesterskiers.org

MLK Soccer Camps, Monday, January 21, 9:30 a.m. Greenville Community Reformed Church, 270 Ardsley Rd, Scarsdale, NY. Cost: $70. No school? No problem! Super Soccer Stars will keep your kids active, kicking and having a blast while school is out this MLK day! For ages 2.5-3 and 4-5. Mini Camp features 2.5 hours of soccer games/activities, arts & crafts! Enroll here!  Please call 212.877.7171 or visit www.supersoccerstars.com for more information.

Community Breakfast in Celebration of Martin Luther King Day, Monday, January 21, 10 a.m. – 1p.m. Hastings-on-Hudson Community Center, 44 Main St., Hasting-on-Hudson, NY.  Tickets: $15. Following the breakfast from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., the organizers will honor local artist Madge Scott and civil rights attorney Arthur Matthews will speak. The event ends with the participants watching President Barack Obama's inauguration address.   

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Youth Legacy Award, Monday, January 21, 11:30 a.m. Tarrytown Doubletree Hotel, 455 S. Broadway, Tarrytown, NY. Tickets: $25. The African American Men of Westchester, Inc. (“AAMW”) and United Way of Westchester - Putnam in conjunction with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Legacy Youth Awards Committee will hold its 12^th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Youth Legacy Awards celebration of young people age 12 – 21. To register and for additional information, please visit www.aamw or contact Katrina Roberts at 914-275-8657 or William Carter at 914-319-1335.

Reverend Natalie R. Wimberly of St. Frances AME Zion Church raised the roof and brought the crowd to its feet with a fiery sermon about the life and message of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during a celebration of the man at All Souls Parish Presbyterian Church in Port Chester on Sunday night.

Wimberly spoke of the slain civil rights leader before about 100 people of all races and religions saying, "We must come together. Everyone has a voice—it doesn't matter who you are or where you come from." She went on to add, "Isn't it sad that most of the hate today stems from a time before most of us were born? We need peace in our homes, peace in our schools, peace in our churches and synagogues and our communities."

Several local religious leaders spoke the words of Dr. King, and the Ministers Council Combined Choir performed throughout the evening's event. Earlier, the Port Chester High School and Middle School Chorus performed a musical tribute to Dr. King.

Humanitarian awards were presented to Rabbi Amiel Wohl, Fr. Stephen Schenk and William and Darlene Wheeler before the crowd spoke the words from Dr. King's "I Have A Dream" speech in unison.