City Council:
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE RENAMING
OF THE THEATRE LOCATED WITHIN THE
DOLES CENTER TO “THE TINA SATTIN THEATRE”
Whereas, in correspondence dated July 9, 2025, Councilwoman Cathlin B. Gleason formally requested authorization for the theatre located within the Doles Center to be renamed and henceforth be known as “The Tina Sattin Theatre.”; and
Whereas, Tina Sattin, born Parthenia Milner, was a legendary actress, musician, mentor, and beloved community pillar who made Mount Vernon her home beginning in 1957; and
Whereas, in 1975, Mrs. Sattin founded the Open Cage Theatre, which served as both a performance venue and a safe haven for aspiring actors, nurturing generations of talent and fostering discipline, character, and self-expression through the performing arts; and
Whereas, Mrs. Sattin’s distinctive approach, known as “Tina’s Technique,” connected performance to personal growth and left an indelible mark on countless youth of Mount Vernon and Westchester County; and
Whereas, the theatre within the Doles Center was the site of Mrs. Sattin’s final revival of To Be Young, Gifted and Black in 1992, and where she continued to coach, direct, and inspire future artists, including Mount Vernon’s own Academy Award winner Denzel Washington; and
Whereas, renaming the Doles Center Theatre in her honor will permanently commemorate her legacy, acknowledge her decades of contribution to the cultural and artistic life of Mount Vernon, and serve as a lasting inspiration to future generations; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That
The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact:
Section 1. Name Designation. The theatre located within the Doles Center is hereby renamed and shall henceforth be known as “The Tina Sattin Theatre.”
Section 2. Signage and Recognition. The Department of Public Works and the Department of Recreation shall coordinate the fabrication and installation of appropriate signage and plaques to reflect the new name and ensure proper recognition of Tina Sattin’s contributions to the arts and the community.
Section 3. Dedication Ceremony. The City Council directs that a public dedication ceremony be planned and held at the Doles Center to formally commemorate the renaming of the theatre and to celebrate the life and legacy of Tina Sattin.
Section 4. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon passage and approval by the City Council pursuant to the City Charter.