As the Coronavirus pandemic has resulted in the closure of all recreational facilities in Yonkers, it may come as no surprise to our readers when we report that the Yonkers Police Athletic League (PAL) building on North Broadway is closed.
But the closure of the PAL’s Walshin Center is more than a result of COVID-19, but a result of the loss of several key members of the non-profit, a lack of information shared with members of the PAL Board, and claims of overspending on programs and staff that the organization simply cannot afford.
Let me preface this story with the fact that I am a member of the Yonkers PAL Board and have been for many years. My service to the PAL has come through reporting on the many events, programs and activities this great organization has provided to the people of Yonkers. I also served as a volunteer at the PAL’s annual Christmas party for people with special needs for many years, under the leadership of Chris Palandra.
The passing of Angelo Martinelli, the Longtime Chairman of the PAL, in 2018, has let to some of the problems in the organization. Along with Martinelli, the passing of other key leaders including Paladra and Jimmy Vetrano have left a void that has been filled by others, but its just not the same.
Longtime PAL Board member and Vice-President Howard Berman has attempted to fill that void for the past year and a half. Recently, things at the PAL came to a head when three paid staff members were let go, and a number of emails passed between the former employees, Board members and elected officials. At this point, if there is not enough money to pay the employees then unfortunately, they should be let go. But also needed is a review of the budgeting for PAL operations, programs and staff. A PAL budget has not been shared with the board for several years.
Perhaps the PAL needs to hit ‘rock bottom’ and close for a period of 3-6 months, and return with a new leadership and management, led by the Yonkers Police Department and the Yonkers PBA. It also should noted that the PAL’s Walshin Bulding is not owned by the PAL, but by the City of Yonkers.
Also in the mix of this discussion is Lionsgate film company, who is building a $100 Million studio in downtown Yonkers, and next to the PAL building. Perhaps a deal can be struck where Lionsgate can have use of the PAL building or purchase it, in exchange for help funding the PAL at another location.
I would also like to see the PAL go back to the basics, which in my opinion is providing the gym and basketball court for use by local boys from Yonkers to use. Although this may see like a simple thing to provide, it is important to the hundreds of teens that I have seen use the gym as a safe place to play basketball and stay off the streets.
This is the beginning of a long discussion on the future of the PAL. Your thoughts are welcome to dmurphy@risingmediagroup.com
