Thursday, May 31, 2012

RWDSU Slams Living Wage Veto


Statement from RWDSU President Stuart Appelbaum
Stuart Appelbaum, President of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU,UFCW), made the following statement in response to Mayor Bloomberg's veto of the Fair Wages for New Yorkers Act:
 
"This veto is a slap in the face to the overwhelming majority of New Yorkers who support the living wage legislation. Across the city, New Yorkers have built a movement for fairness and justice because they know the mayor's economic development policy has failed. Bloomberg will be remembered as the Mayor of Inequality. He forced taxpayers to line the pockets of a few wealthy developers while giving them nothing in return. On his watch, life has gotten worse, not better, for many New Yorkers--a shameful and alarming legacy to be sure. His policy of spending billions to perpetuate poverty-wage jobs has been an economic embarrassment and a moral outrage. Rest assured: we will work with the next mayor to implement the living wage bill, and put an end to this dark and disturbing chapter in the city's history." 

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STATEMENT FROM BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ RE: Mayor Bloomberg's Veto of the 'Fair Wages for New Yorkers' Act


 
“It is unfortunate that Mayor Bloomberg has chosen to ignore the will of the City Council and the overwhelming majority of New Yorkers with his veto of the ‘Fair Wages for New Yorkers’ Act. This bill will ensure that, when our City’s tax dollars are used to make major development projects work, developers do better by their employees and pay them a ‘living wage.’

“This is an incredibly popular piece of legislation, one that has the potential to give City residents a chance to provide a better way of life for their families. I look forward to both the City Council’s override of this veto and to the day the ‘Fair Wages for New Yorkers’ Act becomes law,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

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Wednesday, May 30, 2012

LIU: MISMANAGEMENT OF 911 UPGRADE PICKED TAXPAYERS’ POCKETS

  
 Findings of possible fraud referred to Manhattan DA; City should recoup as much as $163 million for wasteful project. 

  According to an audit released today by City Comptroller John C. Liu, the contractor selected to streamline the City’s vital 911 call system was unqualified and so poorly monitored that it was able to overbill taxpayers by as much as $163 million. Because of the severity of the findings and potential for fraud in both the vendor selection and billing processes, Comptroller Liu has referred the matter to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for further review.

This follows a previous audit released by Comptroller Liu in March that found the Emergency Communications Transformation Program (ECTP) had only one component up and running, was seven years behind schedule, and a billion dollars over budget.

Today’s audit found that severe mismanagement by DoITT has resulted in the City taxpayers not getting what they paid for. In fact, the systems integration portion of the much needed 911 upgrade could cost an additional $362 million, with taxpayers entitled to as much as $163 million in restitution.

“We have long feared that CityTime was not an isolated incident, and unfortunately what we have learned today is that our fear has become a reality,” Comptroller Liu said.  “With one month to go before the City’s budget is ratified, and with devastating cuts on the table, taxpayers should be outraged at the fleecing that transpired under City Hall’s watch.”

The audit uncovered a lengthy series of missteps, starting with the selection of an unqualified company as lead contractor and continuing throughout the life of the ongoing project.

Some of the most egregious findings include:

•       Hewlett Packard (HP) was unqualified because it failed to meet DoITT’s minimum technical requirements for selection and should have not been hired as lead contractor on the project, calling into question the solicitation process and resulting in delays and cost overruns;
•       DoITT allowed HP to drastically mark up subcontractor bills resulting in questionable billing;
•       Project consultants were unqualified and billed at higher rates than allowed;
•       Despite numerous failures and unsatisfactory reviews, City Hall failed to assess any damages against HP, in accordance with the contract.

"As the end users of the info produced by the UCT, fire officers have known right from the beginning that the system did not function,” said Uniformed Fire Officers Association President Al Hagan. “Fire officers refer to UCT as "U Can't Tell", because we never knew whether the information we were getting was accurate. Now, thanks to the diligent work of the Comptroller's office, we know we were overcharged for a shoddy system."

“It appears that we have another large billing overcharge like CityTime. It is not enough to just recover our losses after an audit; we need better oversight from the beginning to keep the City from becoming easy pickings,” said City Council Member Gale Brewer.

AUDIT FINDINGS

DoITT Hired an Unqualified Contractor

In 2004, the City received two proposals from iXP Corporation and Hewlett Packard for the systems integration portion of ECTP.  iXP passed the test for the required technical standard and was selected. However, the company unexpectedly withdrew its proposal and rather than re-soliciting the contract, DoITT selected HP, which had twice failed to meet the minimum technical score to manage and complete the project. In addition, iXP was hired by HP as a subcontractor on the project, which raised suspicion.

DoITT justified awarding the contract to HP by stating that the company had stellar recommendations from the NYPD and the US Air Force, and was at the time contracted to perform CAD system upgrades at NYPD.  Furthermore, DoITT stated that re-soliciting the contract would delay the important project. Both explanations have proven hollow.

In fact, DoITT had no record of NYPD or Air Force recommendations. Furthermore, as far back as 2004 — before the project was solicited — the NYPD gave HP an unsatisfactory review on the quality and timeliness of HP’s performance in a VENDEX performance evaluation.

It also turns out that HP paid the NYPD a $33 million settlement in 2008 for failing to deliver the very CAD system that served in part as justification for their selection on ECTP.

Finally, DoITT stated that it selected HP, instead of soliciting additional applicants, in order to avoid delays.  Nevertheless, the ECTP project is seven years behind schedule, incomplete, and $1 billion over budget, according to Comptroller Liu’s March audit.

Poor oversight and failure to deliver resulted in cost overruns

HP was selected as lead vendor to complete three major components of the ECTP system integration, under a contract that was not to exceed $380 million.  Although HP failed to deliver two of the three components (a unified-CAD and PSAC 2), the estimated cost for the completion of PSAC 1 is $346 million.

In addition, the City has had to engage a second vendor, Northrop Grumman, to complete what HP has failed to do, driving the systems integration costs to $632 million.

There is no disputing the fact that HP has failed to deliver what they were contracted for.  This failure is due to a lack of oversight on behalf of the City and has resulted in another IT project drastically increasing in cost.

City Hall’s free pass to HP cost taxpayers $113 million

Despite documented dissatisfaction with HP’s failure to deliver on the ECTP project, DoITT paid the company $113 million during the first three years of the contract. City Hall refused to heed warnings from high-level agency commissioners and made no effort to recoup expended funds after HP was found to be unsatisfactory, in accordance with the contract.

In 2007, the then-DoITT Commissioner in conjunction with NYPD and FDNY officials, wrote to the then-Deputy Mayor and outlined numerous problems with HP and recommended termination. No action was taken.

In 2008, DoITT stated HP “needs improvement” or was “unsatisfactory” in response to all 20 questions on a VENDEX performance evaluation. And in 2009, a “Lessons Learned” report by the quality assurance
monitor found the same issues within the same time frame.

In the face of the striking failures by HP, the City failed to assess damages to the company, instead City Hall stood idly by and took no action.

Project consultants were unqualified and overbilled the City by an additional $50 million

DoITT and HP did not properly ensure that project consultants were qualified for their titles, that hours were billed appropriately and accurately, and that timesheets were approved in a timely manner.  As a result DoITT should move to recoup as much as $50 million for questionable timesheets (in addition to the aforementioned $113 million).

Billing errors included:

•       13 consultants were overpaid $1.5 million during the audit period. HP billed eight consultants at a higher paying title than they were working at and an additional five consultants were not qualified for their titles.  Auditors were unable to determine if an additional 71 consultants were qualified and paid appropriately
•       3 consultants who were qualified to be administrative staff were billed as Project Managers or Project Analysts (Engineers) for $396,000.
•       HP billed the City at a rate of $192 per hour for non-allowable tasks such as opening the door for visitors and handling restroom garbage.
•       Consultants submitted electronic timesheets indicating work was reported prior to actually performing the work, sometimes as far as a month ahead.

DoITT’s contract management drove up costs

DoITT’s poor management of HP and heavy reliance on subcontractors drove up costs and allowed the lead vendor to take advantage of taxpayers. For example:

•       HP was allowed to bill DoITT for the cost of leasing a management office, including payments for rent, City taxes, coffee, paper, postage, and office supplies
•       DoITT never reduced the contract amount when it was clear that HP could not finish all three components of the project
•       DoITT allowed HP to bill between 9 and 195 percent mark ups for subcontracted services  and allowed HP to change the payment structure on 8 contract components from deliverable (paid upon completion) to time and material (hourly), thus incentivizing additional billing delays

The audit also noted that there were lengthy delays in timesheet approval by HP, ranging from two to 885 days and that more than half waited two months or more for approval.  As a result of egregious timesheet errors HP may have overbilled the City as much as $106 million.  Of this $106 million, $56 million is included in the previously mentioned $113 million.  The remaining $50 million is for work billed after 2008.

As a result of the audit, Comptroller Liu’s office made 11 recommendations to DoITT, of which the agency agreed to four.  Because of the severity of these findings, and potential for fraud in both vendor selection and billing processes, Comptroller Liu has referred the matter to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for further review.

Comptroller Liu credited Deputy Comptroller for Audits Tina Kim and her team for their hard work on the report, which can be found here:
http://www.comptroller.nyc.gov/bureaus/audit/audits_2012/06-30-12_FM11-107A.shtm


Background:

The Emergency Communications Transformation Program (ECTP) was initiated in 2004 to transform and consolidate the City‘s 911 Emergency Dispatch System. The objective of the ECTP is to centralize and integrate the call-taking and dispatch operations between the New York Police Department (NYPD) and Fire Department of New York (FDNY), including its Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) division, into two fully integrated Public Safety Answering Centers (PSAC 1 and PSAC 2) equipped with state-of-the-art hardware and software communications systems.

On April 1, 2005, the Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications (DoITT) contracted with Hewlett-Packard Company (HP) as system integrator for the ECTP. The contract includes, but is not limited to, development for PSAC facilities, organizational transformation of the call-taking process, application integration for all Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems and the Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) system, and the communication infrastructure supporting the ECTP.

Comptroller Liu’s audit examined the awarding, management, and billing of the Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications’ $380 million contract with Hewlett Packard (HP) to conduct work on
ECTP. The audit reviewed the contract records over five years, from its awarding in 2005 through 2010.


Comptroller Liu has put strict payment requirements in place for the City’s second systems integration contract to complete this important project to ensure that this is not repeated:
http://www.comptroller.nyc.gov/press/2011_releases/PR11-03-025.shtm

In March, Comptroller Liu announced audit findings on the overall project management of ECTP by DoITT.  This report addresses a more detailed facet of that management, DoITT’s contract with HP.  The March audit can be found at:
http://www.comptroller.nyc.gov/press/2012_releases/pr12-03-026.shtm

On May 14th a delegation of Congressional representatives sent a letter to the Comptroller General of the United States, requesting an investigation into Mayor Bloomberg’s lack of oversight of spending on private contractors funded by the City of New York with help from federal funds.
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State Senator Rivera & Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. Launch Second Year of Bronx CAN Health Initiative

  
State Senator Gustavo Rivera  and Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., together with Montefiore Medical Center and other community health partners will launch the second year of the Bronx CAN Health Initiative on June 2nd at St. James Park. The Bronx CAN Health Initiative was launched in response to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's study that showed the Bronx as the unhealthiest county in the state of New York. This initiative will tackle issues of obesity, nutrition, exercise and access to preventative health in the Bronx. The month of June and the June 2nd launch on the initiative will be focused on physical fitness and exercise.

This event is the first in a series of Bronx CAN Health fairs. All events are free and open to the public. 

WHO: Senator Gustavo Rivera, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Montefiore Medical Center and other community partners 
  
WHAT: Launch of the Second Annual Bronx CAN Health Initiative
  
WHERE:  St. James Park- 2530 Jerome Ave Bronx NY 10468
  
WHEN: Saturday, June 2nd 2012 1:30-3:30 PM

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Ben Franklin Endorsement 13 C.D.


  The room was packed with Ben Franklin Club members (of the 81st Assembly District), and many others to see just who the Ben Franklin Democratic Club would endorse in the Democratic Primary in the 13th Congressional District. There was also the option of a no endorsement vote, as it was the same for the other position on the agenda the 34th State Senate District. 

   The 34th S.D. was first up, and there were no challengers to incumbent Senator Jeff Klein who had just picked up the bulk of 81st A.D. after redistricting. That fact was pointed out by currentwho said that working with one state senator who has the bulk of the district is better than four who each have a small piece of the assembly district.

   A wrench was thrown into the mix by Lorraine Coyle Koppell (wife of Councilman G. Oliver Koppell) when she asked if Senator Klein would support a Democrat for leader of the state senate or a Republican if his vote would make the difference. Senator Klein said that he is a Democrat, and would support a Democrat for senate leader if the opportunity came up. 

   Next up were four of the five candidates running for the 13th Congressional District. Current State Senator Adriano Espiallat, Ms. Joyce Johnson, Current 15th C.D. Congressman Charlie Rangel, and Mr. Craig Schley. Mr. Clyde Williams the fifth candidate in the race for the 13 C.D. decided to forgo this endorsement meeting. There were some questions and then Ben Franklin Club President Ms. Ellen Feld read the rules for the voting, that there was always the choice of no endorsement also for any position. 

   Senator Jeff Klein received the endorsement of the Ben Franklin Club 59 yes to 19 no endorsement votes for a 75% margin. In the 13th C.D. Senator Espiallat won the endorsement with 54 votes (70%) to 13 for Congressman Rangel, 2 for Mr. Schley, 1 for Ms. Johnson, 1 for Mr. Williams, 4 no endorsement, and two invalid ballots with more than one candidate marked.

Left - 13 C.D. Candidate Ms. Joyce Johnson.   Right - 13 C.D. candidate Mr. Craig Schley. 

Left -  Senator Adriano Espiallat making his point for the endorsement.  Right - Congressman Charlie Rangel talking about his record in congress.

Left - A joyous Senator Espiallat after receiving the Ben Franklin endorsement for the 13 C.D. with supporter Councilman G. Oliver Koppell.    Right - Senator Jeff Klein with Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz.
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Monday, May 28, 2012

Is Senate Minority Leader Sampson on his Way Out?



John Sampson 




    There are reports that several key Democrats in the state senate are being asked to replace current State Senate Minority Leader John Sampson. Sampson came to lead the Senate Democrats when they took the majority and control of the state senate in 2008. However that was after the infamous holdout by the "Four Amigos" which probably lead to the Republicans regaining control of the state senate in 2010. 
   Among those that have reportedly been approached have been State Senator Ruth Hassel-Thompson, State Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins, and Queens Senator Michael Gianaris. Also a long shot candidate is Brooklyn Senator Martin Dilan. 
   We could not reach State Senator Jeff Klein who was the Senate Deputy Minority Leader before Sampson took over for comment. After the Democrats lost control of the State Se4nate in 2010 Klein formed the Independent Democratic Conference with three other Democratic State Senators. 
    As far as we are concerned, Sampson can get a job at the new Aqueduct Racino.
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Mark Gjonaj 80 A.D.

   
    On Sunday May 27th Mr. Mark Gjonaj announced candidate for the 80th Assembly seat held a Memorial Day barbecue for veterans and the community at his campaign headquarters on Lydig Avenue. I stopped by briefly to chat with Mr. Gjonaj, some of those who attended, and took a few photos while I was there. I also asked many people about their current representative in the assembly from the 80th A.D., and got many different answers. The answers ranged from "I don't know who my representative is", "Jeff Klein", "Naomi Rivera", "Kenny Agosto", and "Jimmy Vacca". 

     When I said that Assemblywoman Rivera wants to run on her record the answers ranged from "What Record", to "I guess that means we may see her more now because she is up for reelection". Below are a few photos of the event.
   

Some 80th A.D. voters enjoying the barbecue by 80th A.D. candidate Mark Gjonaj.
 
    Some more 80th A.D. voters, who look like Mark Gjonaj fans, with one holding up a "VICTORY" sign for the election.
80th A.D. candidate Mark Gjonaj with Committee of 100 Democrats Chairman Ricky Martinez (a past candidate in the 80th A.D.).

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Friday, May 25, 2012

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Wave Hill Events June 8–June 15

FRI, JUNE 8    YOGA TOGETHER
Jumping frog, twisty owl, downward dog, oh my! Child and parent or caregiver practice fun yoga poses that build strength, increase flexibility and relax the body and mind in this one-hour class taught by Lisa Ferraro, an instructor at Yoga for Bliss. Incorporate breathing and relaxation techniques into a dynamic and playful experience that you and your child can enjoy together. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring a mat if possible. Recommended for ages 2–5. Sessions are held outdoors only and are weather dependent. Call 718.549.3200 x245 by 8AM on the day of the class for weather updates. Session fee: $15 Member/$23 Non-member. Session fee includes one adult and one child, Registration opens onsite at 9:30AM.
ON THE GROUNDS, 10‒11AM

SAT, JUNE 9    GARDEN WOODWORKING: BUILD A WINDOW BOX
Using basic carpentry skills, construct a classic wooden window box with master carpenter and Wave Hill Facilities Manager Frank Perrone. Space is limited. $35 Member/$50 Non-member. Registration required, online at www.wavehill.org, by calling 718.549.3200 x305 or at the Perkins Visitor Center. Stay for the afternoon! Get clever design ideas for your new planter at the “Creative Combinations for Window Boxes” demonstration at The Shop!
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 9:30AM–12:30PM

SAT, JUNE 9    TAI CHI CHUAN
Quiet like a mountain, moving like a river, Tai Chi is a sequence of gentle movements based on images found in nature. Short and long form classes are led by Irving Yee, an active member of the William CC Chen Tai Chi School. Sessions are held outdoors only and are weather dependent. Call 718.549.3200 x245 by 8AM on the day of the class for weather updates. Session fee: $15 Member/$23 Non-member. Registration opens onsite at 9:30AM.
ON THE GROUNDS, 10AM Beginners, 11AM Intermediates

SAT, JUNE 9    FAMILY ART PROJECT―PLAYFUL PETALS
Playful Petals/Pétalos juguetones
With spring’s amazing floral petals as inspiration, let your imagination blossom, transforming unique foam materials into a mixed-media, sculptural flower.  Free, and admission to the grounds is free until noon.
ECOLOGY BUILDING, 10AM–1PM

SAT, JUNE 9    JESSICA HOWARD CERAMICS TRUNK SHOW IN THE SHOP AT WAVE HILL
Artist and Wave Hill neighbor Jessica Howard creates nature-inspired ceramics for the table-top. After studying illustration in college, she moved to Boston and began working for a well-known ceramic artist. She quickly fell in love with the ceramic process, recognizing that it would provide a way to bring together her loves for drawing, nature and color with a timeless and lasting piece of art for the home. Now based in Riverdale, she has created her own line of ceramics. Her pieces are dishwasher and microwave safe, but their beauty will last longer if hand-washed.
PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, NOON‒4PM

SAT, JUNE 9    FAMILY GALLERY TOUR
Family Gallery Tours offer an opportunity for children and their parents or caregivers to enjoy looking at and sharing ideas about art. Tours will include discussions and activities about contemporary art that responds to Wave Hill’s Wild Garden. The tour begins promptly at 1pm and lasts approximately 45 minutes. A maximum of 20 visitors can be accommodated on the tour. Children ages 4 and older are welcome with an adult. Free with admission to the grounds.
GLYNDOR GALLERY, 1PM

SAT, JUNE 9    IN THE PERKINS VISITOR CENTER―WINDOW BOX PLANTING
Get inspired ideas for your summer window boxes and containers with Assistant Director of Public Programs Laurel Rimmer. Free with admission to the grounds.
PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 1:30–4PM

SAT, JUNE 9    GALLERY TOUR
Join an exhibition interpreter for one of our regularly scheduled tours of Tending toward the Untamed: Artists Respond to the Wild Garden. Wave Hill’s Wild Garden serves as inspiration for new painting, photography, animation, sculpture and installation, by artists Gary Carsley, Chris Doyle, Julie Evans, Isabella Kirkland, Janelle Lynch, Rebecca Morales, Erik Sanner and Anat Shiftan. In the Sunroom  Project Space, Annie Varnot creates a serene space for contemplating life’s impermanence and the potential for growth and renewal Tours take place Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2PM, through August 18. Free with admission to the grounds.
GLYNDOR GALLERY, 2PM

SUN, JUNE 10    BIRDING AT WAVE HILL
Naturalist Gabriel Willow contributes his extensive knowledge of bird species and behaviors on these walks through the gardens and woodlands of Wave Hill. Ages 10 and older welcome with an adult. Severe weather cancels. For weather-related updates, call 718.549.3200 x245 by 8AM the
day of the walk. Free with admission to the grounds. (NYC Audubon Members enjoy two-for-one admission. Birding also takes place July 8 and August 12. Registration required, online at www.wavehill.org, by calling 718.549.3200 x305 or at the Perkins Visitor Center.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 9:30AM

SUN, JUNE 10   HATHA YOGA
Release stress and find refuge from city life by practicing seasonal yoga, surrounded by the beauty of Wave Hill. Hatha Yoga involves the use of physical postures, breath control and meditation to create a supple, strong and relaxed body-mind. Classes are led by Neem Dewji, certified in Hatha and Therapeutic Yoga from The Yoga for Health Foundation in Bedfordshire, England, and The Integral Yoga Institute in NYC. Participants should bring a mat, dress in loosely fitting clothing and come to class with breakfast well digested. All levels welcomed. Sessions are held outdoors only and are weather dependent. Call 718.549.3200 x245 by 8AM on the day of the class for weather updates. Session fee: $15 Member/$23 Non-member. Registration opens onsite at 9:30AM.
ON THE GROUNDS, 10–11:15AM

SUN, JUNE 10    FAMILY ART PROJECT―PLAYFUL PETALS
Playful Petals/Pétalos juguetones
With spring’s amazing floral petals as inspiration, let your imagination blossom, transforming unique foam materials into a mixed-media, sculptural flower.  Free with admission to the grounds.
ECOLOGY BUILDING, 10AM–1PM

SUN, JUNE 10    JESSICA HOWARD CERAMICS TRUNK SHOW IN THE SHOP AT WAVE HILL
Artist and Wave Hill neighbor Jessica Howard creates nature-inspired ceramics for the table-top. After studying illustration in college, she moved to Boston and began working for a well-known ceramic artist. She quickly fell in love with the ceramic process, recognizing that it would provide a way to bring together her loves for drawing, nature and color with a timeless and lasting piece of art for the home. Now based in Riverdale, she has created her own line of ceramics. Her pieces are dishwasher and microwave safe, but their beauty will last longer if hand-washed.
PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, NOON‒4PM

SUN, JUNE 10   GARDEN HIGHLIGHTS WALK
Join us for an hour-long tour of seasonal garden highlights. Free with admission to the grounds.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 2PM

MON, JUNE 11 
Closed to the public

MON, JUNE 11    MEMBERS GARDEN DAY TRIP—PLANT SHOPPING IN CONNECTICUT
Wave Hill Members Only!
Visit two remarkable nurseries on this day trip with Laurel Rimmer, Assistant Director of Public Programs, and Charles Day, Horticultural Interpreter. Shop Gilbertie’s Herb Nursery in Westport and Oliver Nursery in Fairfield, CT—we’ll bring your purchases back to Wave Hill! $50 Member. Includes transportation; lunch additional. Registration required; call 718.549.3200 x305. Space is limited.
MEET AT WAVE HILL FRONT GATE, 9AM−6PM

TUE, JUNE 12    STORIES IN THE GARDEN
Each week, a “mystery reader” from Wave Hill’s staff shares a few of her or his favorite stories with budding young naturalists. Sessions are held outdoors only and are weather dependent. Ideal for ages 3 and up and their adult companions. Free, and admission to the grounds is free until noon.
ON THE GROUNDS, 11AM

TUE, JUNE 12   GARDEN HIGHLIGHTS WALK
Join us for an hour-long tour of seasonal garden highlights. Free, and admission to the grounds is free until noon.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 11AM

TUE, JUNE 12    GALLERY TOUR
Join an exhibition interpreter for one of our regularly scheduled tours of Tending toward the Untamed: Artists Respond to the Wild Garden. Wave Hill’s Wild Garden serves as inspiration for new painting, photography, animation, sculpture and installation, by artists Gary Carsley, Chris Doyle, Julie Evans, Isabella Kirkland, Janelle Lynch, Rebecca Morales, Erik Sanner and Anat Shiftan. In the Sunroom  Project Space, Annie Varnot creates a serene space for contemplating life’s impermanence and the potential for growth and renewal Tours take place Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2PM, through August 18. Free with admission to the grounds.
GLYNDOR GALLERY, 2PM

WED, JUNE 13    NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY—RIOTOUS COLOR
Session 3
Photographer Benjamin Swett guides participants to use Wave Hill’s magnificent gardens to explore color and light in this six-session photography series. Each session combines outdoor photography in a variety of settings, consideration for the work of professional and fine art photographers and reviews of individual work. All levels welcome. The series continues June 14, 20 and 21. $180 Member/$210 Non-member. Registration required, online at www.wavehill.org, by calling 718.549.3200 x305 or at the Perkins Visitor Center.
MEET IN THE ECOLOGY BUILDING, 1−4PM

THU, JUNE 14    ARTISTS’ CIRCLE
Capture the beauty of Wave Hill’s landscape in these drop-in, open-air studio sessions. Wave Hill provides easels and boards, and you bring art-making materials and paper or canvas. All levels welcome; new artists encouraged! Facilitated group critique at the end of each session. Weather dependent. Session fee: $10 Member/$18 Non-member. Registration day-of at Perkins Visitor Center starting at 9:30AM. Meet on the grounds for critiques. This weekly series continues through August.
REGISTER AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 10AM−1PM

THU, JUNE 14    NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY—RIOTOUS COLOR
Session 4
Photographer Benjamin Swett guides participants to use Wave Hill’s magnificent gardens to explore color and light in this six-session photography series. Each session combines outdoor photography in a variety of settings, consideration for the work of professional and fine art photographers and reviews of individual work. All levels welcome. The series continues June 20 and 21. $180 Member/$210 Non-member. Registration required, online at www.wavehill.org, by calling 718.549.3200 x305 or at the Perkins Visitor Center.
MEET IN THE ECOLOGY BUILDING, 1−4PM

THU, JUNE 14    WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
Stroll through the Wild Garden with a garden interpreter to see William Robinson’s concept of the “Wild Garden” in seasonal context. Discover why this naturalistic style of gardening is even more relevant than ever, over a century after his book The Wild Garden was first published.  Free with admission to the grounds.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 2PM

FRI, JUNE 15    YOGA TOGETHER
Jumping frog, twisty owl, downward dog, oh my! Child and parent or caregiver practice fun yoga poses that build strength, increase flexibility and relax the body and mind in this one-hour class taught by Lisa Ferraro, an instructor at Yoga for Bliss. Incorporate breathing and relaxation techniques into a dynamic and playful experience that you and your child can enjoy together. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring a mat if possible. Recommended for ages 2–5. Sessions are held outdoors only and are weather dependent. Call 718.549.3200 x245 by 8AM on the day of the class for weather updates. Session fee: $15 Member/$23 Non-member. Session fee includes one adult and one child, Registration opens onsite at 9:30AM.
ON THE GROUNDS, 10‒11AM

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A 28-acre public garden and cultural center overlooking the Hudson River  and Palisades, Wave Hill’s mission is to celebrate the artistry and legacy of its gardens and landscape, to preserve its magnificent views, and to explore human connections to the natural world through programs in horticulture, education and the arts.

HOURS  Open all year, Tuesday through Sunday and many major holidays: 9AM—4:30PM. Closes 5:30PM, March 15—October 31.  
ADMISSION  $8 adults, $4 students and seniors 65+, $2 children 6—18. Free Saturday mornings until noon. Free until noon on Tuesdays in June.  Free to Wave Hill Members and children under 6.

PROGRAM FEES  Program s are free with admission to the grounds unless otherwise noted.

Visitors to Wave Hill can take advantage of Metro-North’s one-day getaway offer. Purchase a discount round-trip rail far and discount admission to the gardens. More at http://mta.info/mnr/html/getaways/outbound_wavehill.htm

DIRECTIONS – Getting here is easy! Located only 3o minutes from midtown Manhattan, Wave Hill’s free shuttle van transports you to and from our front gate and Metro-North’s Riverdale station, as well as the 242nd Street stop on the #1 subway line. Limited onsite parking is available for $8 per vehicle. Free offsite parking is available nearby with continuous, complimentary shuttle service to and from the offsite lot and our front gate. Complete directions and shuttle bus schedule at www.wavehill.org/visit/.

Information at 718.549.3200. On the web at www.wavehill.org.
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Jeter Meter Returns



JETER METER RETURNS

   The Jeter Meter is back! The LED sign which counted down the Yankee Captain’s quest for 3,000 hits has been re-installed in front of his portrait on River Avenue and 161st Street.

  “The Jeter Meter brought the team and the fans together” said Dr. Cary Goodman, the 161st Street BID’s executive director, “We want to return to that spirit this year.”  Jeter has 3,152 hits and is just three away from passing George Brett and moving into 14th place on the hits list.

  For the past month the Jeter Meter has been the centerpiece of the highly-acclaimed, BASEBALL IN THE BRONX exhibit, at The Bronx Museum
 
  “The Jeter Meter will keep track of Derek’s hits and give Yankee fans a chance to wish him and the team, Good luck,” Goodman said.

 
 Last year, the BID joined with area merchants and Cong. Serrano to distribute 3,000 slice of cake to celebrate this Yankee milestone.
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Wednesday, May 23, 2012

NYS Assembly Member Nelson L. Castro

CASTRO CARE ENGLISH  
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Bronx Chamber Of Commerce Golf Outing Rescheduled

Golf 2012 EBLAST
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What You Should Know

By Sen. Rev. Rubén Díaz

There Is a Rat Among Us


In an article written by New York Daily News columnist Ken Lovett in the Monday, May 21st edition, I learned that there is a movement in the New York State Democratic Leadership to oust Senate Minority Leader John Sampson.

In his article, Ken Lovett even quoted one of his sources saying: “The writing is on the wall.”
Another Democratic source is quoted as stating: “These bad decisions on top of other ones he made, basically made it clear that John can’t be the leader.”


You should know that Mr. Lovett, without releasing the names of his sources, gave us an indication about who might be behind the so-called next “Coup.”  Mr. Lovett specifically writes: “one high-ranking Dem.”


In El Barrio, Hato Tejas sector La Cuchilla in Bayamon, Puerto Rico where I come from, when a person, man or woman, does this kind of back-stabbing and is not honest enough to release his or her name, we call them rats.


You should know that as soon as I read the article, I went around asking people, “Who do you think is this high ranking source plotting to knock Sampson out?”  It is interesting to see all of the names that people mention, starting with Jeff Klein, Liz Krueger, Mike Ginaris and – now hold on to your hats folks – Governor Andrew Cuomo.


Out of all of them, Andrew Cuomo is the most frequent name mentioned.  Even during our Democratic closed-door Conference, his name was mentioned by most of the Senators.  To many, this plot is an act of desperation by those who already visualize a victory in November by the Democrats when the Republicans (will probably) lose their Majority and control of the Senate.


As you should know, the relations
hip among Governor Andrew Cuomo, Senator John Sampson and the Senate Democrats has become estranged and very ugly, even though in public they all act like nothing has happened.  This ugliness is due to Governor Andrew Cuomo dealing with the Republicans and doing everything possible to see that the Senate Democrats fail. Rumor has it, and all of the politics pundits are speculating, that there is a great possibility that the Democrats will regain control of the Senate and that Senator John Sampson will be back as Majority Leader as one of the maximum authorities in New York politics.

They say that Sampson will be back as Majority Leader with all of the experience and know-how he has obtained by the mistakes committed back when we were in the Majority. He will be a bionic reconstructed man, better, faster, and stronger. Knowing very well now, who are the friends and who are the enemies and that my dear reader will be a threat to the Governor and to those who have been having tons of fun with our Conference.


You should know that here in Albany, sooner or later, everything is known. There are no secrets here that people will not
find out.  Therefore, to the rat or rats, I suggest that it is better to be like me.  Speak your mind and don’t be a hypocrite.  Let people know who you are when you have something to say and don’t hide behind anonymity.

For more information on Ken Lovett's article, Please click: (http://www.nydailynews.com/news/columnists?columnist=2.1990)

I am Senator Rubén Díaz and this is what you should know.
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Monday, May 21, 2012

Bronx Week Parade 2012
Highlights of the parade

  Thousands of Bronxites either marched in the parade or enjoyed watching the marchers, and Bronx Walk of Fame Honorees Dr. Valerie Capers, Mr. Sol Negrin, Mr. Tyson Beckford, and Rapper Fat Joe. Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. co-hosted the parade with Ms. Bharati Kemraj (of Bronxnet fame).
  Schools from all over the Bronx marched, as this years theme to the Bronx Week Parade was "Education through Music:. below are some if the pictures we were able to get.

Left - Rapper Fat Joe gets greetings from some of the crowd as he arrives to view the parade    Right - is the reviewing stand with the four honorees and BP Diaz. 

Left - is BP Diaz presenting a trophy to the winning soccer team from the Bronx Cup Soccer Game.  Right - is the start of the parade with the painting of the dragons eye, highlighting the connection of China and the Bronx.


Left - are the Clinton High School Cheerleaders.  Right - are members of Bronx Community Board # 7, with its Chairman Mr. Paul Foster on the right. The parade route goes through CB 7.


Left - is the marching band from PS 43.   Right - is PS 121.



Left - is PS 22.   Right - is PS 76. and the t-shirts say "Education through Music.



Left - is Congressman Charlie Rangel and Assemblyman Jose Rivera.    Right - Rapper Fat Joe expressing his thoughts about the parade as BP Diaz and Assemblyman Marcos Crespo stand to the side of Fat Joe. BP Diaz also tried his hand at rapping, but he should keep his day job.

Some more marchers and children.



More cheerleaders and dancers.


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Councilman Koppell Endorses Espaillat for Congress

“A new district and a new day demands new leadership”

 

  Today, New York City Councilman G. Oliver Koppell endorsed State Senator Adriano Espaillat for Congress in the newly created 13th Congressional District. Koppell has been a longtime elected official in the portion of the Bronx that was recently added to the Congressional District.


“I am pleased to endorse State Senator Adriano Espaillat in the upcoming Democratic Primary for the 13th Congressional District seat,” said Councilman G. Oliver Koppell. “I appreciate and commend Congressman Charlie Rangel’s long service in the Congress.  However, a new District and a new day demands new leadership.  Adriano Espaillat has been an effective public official in the State Assembly and State Senate. He is committed to job creation, economic development, public education and affordable housing. He will bring the same passion and energy to Congress where he will continue to fight for us and work with President Obama.  He will also be an important role model and advocate for the Dominican and Hispanic communities in my District and beyond.  I endorse Adriano Espaillat.”

“I am proud and honored to receive the support of Councilman Koppell, who understands that important issues of our time and recognizes the need for new leadership to address today’s challenges,” said Senator Adriano Espaillat. “I look forward to campaigning with Councilman Koppell as we talk to voters in the Bronx and Upper Manhattan about bringing bold, new ideas to Congress and moving our communities forward.”

Councilman Koppell’s endorsement comes at a time when Espaillat’s campaign for Congress is enjoying momentum, particularly in the Bronx, where Espaillat has been endorsed by two former Bronx Borough presidents, Fernando Ferrer and Adolfo Carrión; State Senator Gustavo Rivera; Assembly Member Neslon Castro and other local Democratic officials.
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SENATOR RIVERA HOSTS COMMUNITY CONVERSATION ON STOP & FRISK
 The Third Workshop in a Series of Public Safety Workshops 

  Senator Gustavo Rivera partnered with 100 Blacks in Law Enforcement Who Care to host a community conversation on Stop and Frisk last Thursday, May 17th at 6:00PM. Dozens of Bronx residents engaged in a dialogue about their experiences with law enforcement and about how to proceed if stopped by the police. Some audience members, including Senator Rivera, participated in skits that portrayed both good and bad behavior when individuals are stopped by law enforcement officials.

" I believe the policy of Stop and Frisk as it is has been implemented in New York City, is unconstitutional and discriminatory," said Senator Gustavo Rivera. "I thought the exchange between the community and members of law enforcement was an important first step to addressing community concerns as it relates to this issue. In order for Bronxites and people of color throughout New York City to continue to feel safe in their neighborhood, they need to be able to trust their local police. That is why I decided to hold a workshop with former law enforcement officers to get folks talking about Stop and Frisk: what it is, and ways to avoid escalating conflicts if they are stopped and frisked by the police."

"The problem with 'illegal' Stop, Question and Frisk and the impact it is having on members of the Black and Latino community has become the primary civil rights issues of today," said retired officer and founding member of 100 Blacks in Law Enforcement Who Care, Noel Leader. "As Black and Latino law enforcement officials, we deem it to be very important to educate our communities on how to navigate these mostly unnecessary interactions."

Senator Rivera continues to believe that the policy of Stop and Frisk should be changed and will continue to advocate for changes at the city level. This was the third in a series of Public Safety Workshops, which have been held every Thursday in May.

 All are welcome to attend the next and final workshop on Domestic Violence:
 May 24th from 6:00PM to 7:30PM - Domestic Violence Presented by STEPS to End Family Violence.   2432 Grand Concourse Bronx, NY - 4th Floor
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Bronx Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing Rescheduled for May 31




  

    


The Bronx Chamber of Commerce
would like to thank all attendees for registering
for the biggest Golf Event of the year!

UNFORTUNATELY DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE GOLF OUTING IS RESCHEDULED UNTIL THURSDAY,
MAY 31ST.


We are proud to announce one of our celebrity golfers, Chris Lemmon showed up at the golf course bright & early and is just as disappointed
as the rest of us.  He will be joining  us
on May 31st as well.

  
On Thursday, May 31st there will be a
complimentary warm-up and Golf Clinic at 9 AM
located at

Turtle Cove Golf Center 
1 City Island Road
Bronx, NY 10464

After the warm-up and Golf Clinic
golfers will proceed to

Pelham Split Rock Golf Course
for registration at 11 AM.

Shot Gun will be taking place at 12:30 PM.

We look forward to a wonderful day of golf.  Thank you again for all of your support.
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