Saturday, June 30, 2012

What You Should Know

By Senator Rev. Rubén Díaz
32nd Senatorial District, Bronx County, New York 


  Senator Rev. Ruben Diaz Calls for A Thorough Investigation into 13th C.D. Election

Adriano Espaillat should have known that before he conceded on Tuesday night, that there were many uncounted ballots that might have declared him the winner.

It is unbelievable and incredible that despite the extremely low voter turnout, the final tally to decide who actually won the Democratic Primary race between Senator Adriano Espaillat and Congressman Charlie Rangel (and three other candidates) continues to change.

According to today’s media reports, there are 3,174 affidavit ballots for New York’s Primary Race in the 13th Congressional District, 776 from the Bronx and the rest mostly from the 72nd Assembly District in Washington Heights.”

How can it be that on election night there was a 6.6 percentage gap showing Charlie Rangel was the clear victor, and now, two days later, we hear that all the votes have not been counted, and as the remaining votes are being counted, Congressman Rangel is now only leading by a mere 1,000 votes and still 30 machines have not been counted yet?

We need to know what actually transpired with the Board of Elections and the candidates for this race.  How can it be that two days after the Primary, things are such a mess?

Is this how a democracy functions?

Will this mean that from now on, candidates will have to wait two or three days before conceding the seat or do we have to send the people from the board of elections to a counting and additions course?

This calls for a thorough investigation!

I am Senator Reverend Rubén Díaz and this is what you should know.

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8669_Primary 

Luis Sepulveda Fundraiser

     
     Friday night there was a fundraiser held at the Pines located on Eastchester Road right across the street from the Bronx Democratic County Headquarters for 87th Assembly candidate Luis Sepulveda. This fundraiser was being hosted by Bronx Democratic County Leader Assemblyman Carl E. Heastie. The Bronx County Democratic organization has announced that they will be backing every incumbent in the Bronx this year, and since there is no incumbent in the 87th A.D. Mr. Luis Sepulveda has been endorsed by the Bronx Democratio organization and Chairman Heastie. There were many friends and supporters of 87th A.D. candidate Luis Sepulveda, but due to the high temperature outside the fund raiser was moved from the Rooftop Garden of the Pines inside to a much cooler space.

     Luis Sepulveda ran in 2010 against Assemblyman Peter Rivera loosing by only a few votes, and now that Peter Rivera has been confirmed to be the new state labor commissioner Sepulveda is campaigning each and every day as he is the underdog. Tthe Luis Sepulvedahe campaign headquarters is located at 1512 Castle Hill Avenue, or you can his Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/luis.r.sepulveda.
     Here you see Bronx Democratic County Leader Assemblyman Carl Heastie on the right, 87th assembly candidate Luis Sepulveda in the center, and possible 2013 11th City Council candidate Dan Padernacht on the left.
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Friday, June 29, 2012

Mark Gjonaj Fundraiser





     Thursday night 80th Assembly candidate Mark Gjonaj held a fundraiser at Maestros Caterers. The room was packed with over 300 supporters of candidate Gjonaj. Diane Savino the current 80th Assembly State Committee Woman who has broken away from the Liberty Democratic Association of the 80th A.D. to support Mark Gjonaj for Assembly introduced candidate Mark Gjonaj to a roar of approval. 


     Candidate Gjonaj said that when he heard that the 80th A.D. was the poorest district in the Bronx he decided torun to make the 80th A.D. a better place to live. Jobs, Jobs, Jobs he continued are whats needed, and he wants to create more jobs. Schools are only used 1/3 of the time, and Gjonaj wants to use the asset of the school building more hours of the day. Longer school days, more after school programs, adult education, and community usage of the school;s are needed.

    Candidate Gjonaj spoke about the poor education that public school children receive currently, and he said that he wants top change the=at when he gets to Albany. "Our kids will have the same opportunities as all the children of New York Stae do and Albany  will hear that from me". 

     Candidate Gjonaj ended his speech by saying "the 80th A.D. has been neglected and maligned for to long, and Mark Gjonaj will change that". Below are a few photos of the event.



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Above Left- Only one side of the packed room.
Above Right 80th A.D. State Committee Woman Diane Savino gets a hug after introducing candidate Mark Gjonaj.
Below Left- Group photo of Mark Gjonaj with some supporters.
Below Right is the Gjonaj family, Mark at the podium, his wife Roberta, and sons Joseph and Nicholas.




13th Congressional Race UPDATE



       As of Friday June 29th this is the 13th District Democratic Primary results. Mind you that only 94% of the polling precincts  have been accounted for. The missing precincts are said to be from Washington Heights and part of the Bronx where candidate Espaillat is to have gotten a large percentage of the vote. With the difference of just over 1,000 votes between the top two candidates with almost 3,000 votes still to be counted we could be seeing an election similar to the recent special election in the 27th State Senate District.



  UPDATE----
   The Manhattan Supreme Court will be holding a hearing on the results of 13th Congressional race. It is also possible that there will be calls for the Justice Department to take up the issue of if Latino voter weren't disenfranchised.





















Candidate             Votes                Pct.
Charles Rangel       16,916             43.9%
Incumbent

Adriano Espiallat   15,884             41.3%

Clyde Williams        3,974             10.3%

Joyce S. Johnson    1,187               3.1%

Craig Schley              545               1.4%

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Wave Hill Events July 13–July 20


FRI, JULY 13    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, SUN, JULY 14, 15    MOW-DOWN GARDEN HOEDOWN WEEKEND
Pay homage to the humble, hardworking grass family. Grasses are everywhere at Wave Hill and throughout the world. We eat grasses—our favorite and most basic foods come from grains like corn, oats, rice, wheat, rye, barley and millet, all of which are really grasses! Grasses are used to build baskets, brooms and even homes! Instruments are made from grasses! And of course, grasses are beautiful to behold. We’re celebrating this super plant family with all-American music, art-making, guided tours, grassy games and more. Admission to the grounds is free all weekend, thanks to the generous support of Target.
ON THE GROUNDS, 9‒5:30PM

SAT, JULY 14    FAMILY ART PROJECT—HATS, MATS AND BASKETS
Hats, Mats and Baskets/Sombreros, salvamatele, y canastas de mimbres
Mix ornamental, multi-colored grasses and other natural materials to weave your own shady hat, summer mat or festive grassy basket for this special Mow-Down Weekend event. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
ECOLOGY BUILDING, 10AM‒1PM

SAT, JULY 14    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, JULY 14    GRASS TUNNEL-RAISING
Weave grasses and other materials onto a lean-to-like-structure to create a shady tunnel with artist Gisela Insuaste at this Mow-Down Weekend event. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
ON THE GROUNDS, 11AM & 2PM

SAT, JULY 14    MAKE A SOD-KICK!
Craft a creature from rye grass, soil and nylon stockings, then decorate your pal to give him or her personality, at this Mow-Down Weekend event. Will she be Grassylocks or Miss Canthus? Maybe he’ll be the Lawn Ranger! Take ‘em home and your ‘sod-kick’ will sprout grassy hair in just about a week. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
ON THE GROUNDS, NOON‒3PM

SAT, JULY 14    BASKET-MAKING DEMONSTRATION
Master basket maker Carolyn Lambert-Braun weaves grasses into artistic, yet functional baskets and encourages audience participation at this Mow-Down Weekend event! Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
ON THE GROUNDS, NOON‒3PM

SAT, JULY 14    LIVE MUSIC: SPIRIT FAMILY REUNION
A blend of front-porch Americana, old-time gospel and bluegrass, Brooklyn’s own Spirit Family Reunion, blurs the line between past and present at this Mow-Down Weekend performance. Sing along with the band, which includes fiddle, bass, accordion and a big ole drum. Don’t know the lyrics? Not to worry—they might even bring songbooks! Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
ON THE GROUNDS, NOON & 1:30PM

SAT, JULY 14   GARDEN WALK: GRASSES THAT GRACE THE GARDEN
Ornamental grasses enhance a garden with their graceful habits and subtle textures. Observe their diversity, from the imposing giant reed (Arundo donax) to the adorable miniature fountain grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Little Bunny’), and see how well they mingle with other plants at Wave Hill on this Mow-Down Weekend walk. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 1 & 3PM

SAT, JULY 14    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, Wave Hill’s Van Lier Visual Artist Fellows Nova Jiang and Cameron Rowland have each created installations. Jiang’s project combines art, technology and garden design to create an interactive experience for visitors; Rowland investigates the architecture and open space of public housing projects in relation to Wave Hill. Tours take place Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2PM, through August 18. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
GLYNDOR GALLERY, 2PM

SUN, JULY 15   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, JULY 15    FAMILY ART PROJECT—HATS, MATS AND BASKETS
Hats, Mats and Baskets/Sombreros, salvamateles y canastas de mimbres
Mix ornamental, multi-colored grasses and other natural materials to weave your own shady hat, summer mat or festive grassy basket for this special Mow-Down Weekend event. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
ECOLOGY BUILDING, 10AM‒1PM

SUN, JULY 15    GRASS TUNNEL-RAISING
Weave grasses and other materials onto a lean-to-like-structure to create a shady tunnel with artist Gisela Insuaste at this Mow-Down Weekend event. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
ON THE GROUNDS, 11AM & 2PM

SUN, JULY 15    MAKE A SOD-KICK!
Craft a creature from rye grass, soil and nylon stockings, then decorate your pal to give him or her personality, at this Mow-Down Weekend event. Will she be Grassylocks or Miss Canthus? Maybe he’ll be the Lawn Ranger! Take ‘em home and your ‘sod-kick’ will sprout grassy hair in just about a week. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
ON THE GROUNDS, NOON‒3PM

SUN, JULY 15    BASKET-MAKING DEMONSTRATION
Master basket maker Carolyn Lambert-Braun weaves grasses into artistic, yet functional baskets and encourages audience participation at this Mow-Down Weekend event! Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
ON THE GROUND, NOON‒3PM

SUN, JULY 15    LIVE MUSIC: ASTROGRASS
What better way to honor grasses then with a band named Astrograss? Revel in the earthy, bluegrass-inspired sounds of fiddle, banjo, mandolin and guitar laced with gorgeous vocal harmonies. Listen for original tunes, American classics and unexpected covers at this Mow-Down Weekend performance. Dancing is encouraged! Great for the whole family! Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
ON THE GROUNDS, NOON & 1:30PM

SUN, JULY 15   GARDEN WALK: GRASSES THAT GRACE THE GARDEN
Ornamental grasses enhance a garden with their graceful habits and subtle textures. Observe their diversity, from the imposing giant reed (Arundo donax) to the adorable miniature fountain grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Little Bunny’), and see how well they mingle with other plants at Wave Hill on this Mow-Down Weekend walk. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 1 & 3PM

SUN, JULY 15   GARDEN HIGHLIGHTS WALK
Join us for an hour-long tour of seasonal garden highlights. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 2PM

MON, JULY 16
Closed to the public

TUE, JULY 17    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 all day.
ON THE GROUNDS, 11AM

TUE, JULY 17    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, Wave Hill’s Van Lier Visual Artist Fellows Nova Jiang and Cameron Rowland have each created installations. Jiang’s project combines art, technology and garden design to create an interactive experience for visitors; Rowland investigates the architecture and open space of public housing projects in relation to Wave Hill. Tours take place Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2PM, through August 18. Free with admission to the grounds.
GLYNDOR GALLERY, 2PM

WED, JULY 18    SUNSET WEDNESDAY
Try an outdoor yoga class, join a guided garden walk or wander onto the Great Lawn to enjoy a plein air performance by local BxIndie musicians, through the Bronx Council on the Arts. Bring your own folding chair and enjoy the concert from the comfort of your own favorite seat. Gardens open until 8:30PM. Glyndor Gallery, Perkins Visitor Center, The Shop at Wave Hill and Food Service open until 8PM. Check www.wavehill.org/visit for the schedule for Sunset Wednesdays free shuttle service to and from Metro-North and the #1 subway. All events are free with admission to the grounds with the exception of yoga.
ON THE GROUNDS, 6‒8:30PM

WED, JULY 18    SUNSET YOGA
Find refuge from city life by practicing seasonal yoga on the tranquil lawns at Wave Hill. Decrease stress and increase your energy by focusing on your posture, breath control and meditation. Sunset Wednesday sessions are taught by Yoga for Bliss instructor Joanne Salome. Participants should bring a mat if possible, dress in loosely fitting clothing and come to class with their latest meal 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 onsite day-of.
ON THE GROUNDS, 6‒7:15PM

WED, JULY 18    SUNSET GARDEN WALK
Join us for a short guided walk through the evening gardens. Visit a different garden every Sunset Wednesday through August. Free with admission to the grounds.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 6:30PM

WED, JULY 18    BxINDIE MUSIC AT SUNSET—JAZZ AND BLUES TRIOEnjoy a plein air performance by local BxIndie musicians, through a collaboration with the Bronx Council on the Arts. New this year, you can bring your own folding chair and enjoy the concert from the comfort of your own favorite seat. This evening, the Robert Silverman Jazz and Blues Trio performs. Free with admission to the grounds.
ON THE GROUNDS, 7PM

THU, JULY 19    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

FRI, JULY 20   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 all day on July Tuesdays.  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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Thursday, June 28, 2012

STATEMENTS ON SUPREME COURT'S HEALTH CARE RULING

Here are a few statements that have come to us on the Supreme Court ruling about the "Affordable Care Act"

City Comptroller John Liu stated the following :

“Today’s historic decision by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding President Obama’s Affordable Care Act ensures that approximately 1 million New York City residents without health insurance will no longer have to choose between buying the medication they need and paying the rent. New York State, as a longtime leader in health insurance reform, already had in place critical elements of the Affordable Care Act, including guaranteed eligibility regardless of one’s health condition and expanded access to Medicaid. New Yorkers will now benefit from increased access to primary and preventive care, added help in finding and using insurance coverage, and an overall focus on spending our healthcare dollars more wisely. As implementation of the law continues and funding streams change, the Comptroller’s office will be monitoring closely to ensure that the Health and Hospitals Corporation has adequate resources to carry out its critical mission of serving the City’s most vulnerable populations.”
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STATEMENT FROM BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ

“Today the Supreme Court delivered a major victory for the American people by upholding the ‘individual mandate’ of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

“This is an important law that affects millions of residents across the country.  In a Borough where a high percentage of residents are uninsured, it is imperative for this law to remain so that  Bronxites can access  and afford the care they need. According to the Bronx Health Link, had the bill been upheld in its entirety about 99,000 Bronx residents would have gained insurance coverage, and the uninsured rate would have gone down from 21% in 2009 to 14%. Moreover, up to 70,000 more New York State residents would have been eligible for Medicaid starting in 2014.
“It is because of this law we have made a fundamental and transformative change to how those with preexisting conditions will receive the care they so desperately need. It is because of this law we have taken a substantial step in fixing a broken system.
“But there is more work to be done. By striking down the Medicaid expansion provision, we have missed a tremendous opportunity to impact those areas with the greatest economic need.  We must continue to push Congress to make the needed reforms to Medicaid so that more Americans can receive benefits under this important program.
“We thank the President for his leadership.  Residents in our Borough and those across the country will have greater rights and protections when it comes to healthcare. Today is a victory for all Americans,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. 
 
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SENATOR RIVERA CONGRATULATES SUPREME COURT FOR HISTORIC DECISION ON THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT
 
State Senator Gustavo Rivera (D,WF-Bronx) issued the following statement in response to the Supreme Court's decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act in its entirety, including the individual mandate:

"Today is a great day for the residents of the Bronx that I represent and for working people throughout the United States who understand the struggle to find affordable health care in this country. I am incredibly grateful for the Supreme Court's important and historic decision and for President Obama's leadership on ensuring that every American have access to affordable health insurance. Thanks to today's decision, the implementation of the Affordable Healthcare Act will lead to 32 million more 
 
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Statement from Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz
 
"The Supreme's Court ruling in favor of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is a HUGE victory for the people of the United States. The hypocrisy of Mitt Romney, who gave Massachusetts Romneycare with many similar provisions, is shocking, even for a Republican. Anyone with a son or daughter below the age of 26, anyone with a pre-existing condition, and, in fact, anyone should be grateful to President Obama for his great accomplishment. I hope people understand that it's important to re-elect President Obama, not only because of his leadership on the crucial issues facing the United States, but because the appointment of Supreme Court Justices over the next four years must NEVER be made by a Republican president."





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Wednesday, June 27, 2012

CITY’S PROPERTY TAX COLLECTIONS FROM CELL ANTENNAS STUCK IN A DEAD ZONE

Audit Finds Department of Finance Failed to Uncover Unreported Income from Cell Antennas, Missed $24 Million in Potential Property Taxes
 

   City Comptroller John C. Liu and State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli today announced that a joint audit found New York City’s Department of Finance failed to collect an estimated $24 million in property taxes because it did not use available resources to identify property owners who did not report income from cell antennas.
“As phone companies and cell tower landlords profit handsomely, our taxpayers are entitled to share in that revenue,” Comptroller Liu said. This audit clearly outlines how the Finance Dept. can recover $24 million. That's real money that can stave off anything from tax increases to cuts in public services.”
“During these tough economic times, the city and state need to maximize all sources of available revenue to keep crucial programs running and needed employees like police, firefighters and teachers on the job,” Comptroller DiNapoli said. “The audit findings released today show that with a little creativity and ingenuity the city can benefit tremendously. This audit came about as an effort between our two offices and shows what can be accomplished when we share resources and expertise.”
Owners of commercial properties and large apartment buildings must report income from cell antenna equipment to the Department of Finance (DOF). This income increases the City’s assessed value of the property, which helps determine property taxes.  Auditors used Department of Buildings’ data and other resources available to the DOF to find 2,108 property owners who failed to report income from cell equipment in 2008-2009.  By comparison, in 2009, the agency’s assessors found just 90 properties that failed to report income.
Borough
Properties w/ Unreported Income
2008-2009
Tax Revenue Missed
Manhattan
594
$9.8 million
Bronx
363
$3.5 million
Brooklyn
602
$5.8 million
Queens
489
$4.7 million
Staten Island
60
$0.5 million

Response
The DOF agreed to use additional available databases in order to expand its search for unreported income, to apply cell site income to properties when it verifies property owners have not reported such income, and to consult with the Law Department about imposing penalties on owners who fail to report income.
The agency stated that starting in 2011, when the audit was initiated, it prioritized the accurate valuation of cell sites.
The DOF stated that it failed to collect a potential $10.5 million in property taxes — not $24 million — a figure that it reached by counting 843 properties that failed to report income.  However, the agency’s estimate failed to reflect the 1,711 properties that did not report income identified by the audit.  When adjusted to reflect those 1,711 properties, the agency’s estimate more than doubles and is very much in line with the audit finding.
Background: Property Taxes and Cell Equipment
When the DOF discovers that an owner has failed to report income, the agency adds a preset amount to the property’s income and adjusts the assessed value. Based on DOF estimates, properties north of 125th Street and in the outer boroughs make about $2,000 a month per cell carrier that leases space. South of 125th Street, properties make an estimated $4,000 per month. 

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Tuesday, June 26, 2012

What You Should Know

By Senator Rev. Rubén Díaz
32nd Senatorial District, Bronx County, New York


Senator Diaz Unites with Senator Storobin Against Same-Sex Marriage

You should know that the newly elected Senator David Storobin from Brooklyn has introduced his first piece of legislation, Senate Bill S7712-2011 to repeal gay marriage in New York State.

Senator Storobin was sworn into office two weeks ago after defeating New York City Councilman Lew Fidler in the closest election Brooklyn’s history has ever seen.

As the Senator who has taken the lead to oppose gay marriage in New York, I thank Senator Storobin for giving me the opportunity to join him as a co-sponsor to this historic and pending piece of legislation.

You should also know that so far – as of today – it is only Senator Storobin and me who support this legislation.  It will be a difficult and uphill battle.  Nonetheless, our struggle will continue as we work to get 30 more Senators to join us.  We are not giving up.

As the saying goes, it isn’t over until it’s over!

I am Senator Reverend Ruben Diaz and this is what you should know.

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Monday, June 25, 2012

13th Congressional Race Prediction


      Tomorrow is the new federal election primary day Tuesday June 26th and the polls will be open from 8 AM to 9 PM. The Republican Party will be choosing a candidate to run for U.S. Senate (to run against current U.S. Senator Kristen Gillabrand) from the three candidates running, and there are close Democratic primaries for congress in several congressional district such as the new 13th C.D. We took out our crystal ball and asked it to give us the results of the 13th C.D. race.
    
      Our crystal balls prediction in the 13th C.D. Democratic Primary is as follows. Mr. Craig Schley who ran in the 2010 general election on the Independence Party line and not in the Democratic Primary in 2010 will come in fifth place with up to 8 percent of the vote. Ms. Joyce Johnson has lost some of her luster from 2010 (including the endorsement of the New York Times), and in 2012 will garner less than 10 percent of the vote. Any of the remaining three candidates could win this race, but we see Mr. Clyde Williams coming in third with between 15 and 19 percent of the vote. That leaves close to 65 percent of the vote for Congressman Rangel and Senator Espaillat to split. Our crystal ball kept changing here, but when we asked it for the final tally and the winner it came up 36 percent for the new Congressman Adriano Espaillat and 29 percent for Mr. Charlie Rangel. Our crystal ball also had a message for Manhattan Democratic County Leader Assemblyman Keith Wright. The message for Mr. Wright was that next time you should make sure that there is more than one Latino in the race to split the Latino vote if you want to win the seat. Our crystal ball says that you have such a candidate. 

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Bronx Borough President's Caribbean Heritage Celebration



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LIU: BIKE SHARE PROGRAM PEDALS PAST SAFETY MEASURES

10,000 bicycles could lead to more injuries, fatalities and increased legal claims  
 
  City Comptroller John C. Liu today released a comprehensive plan to help ensure the City’s Bike Share program, “Citi Bike,” is safe for cyclists, pedestrians and motorists alike.  Nearly a month before the first 7,000 bicycles are set to hit the City’s streets, Liu put forth the recommendations designed to increase safety and reduce the City’s exposure to lawsuits.

“In the rush to place ten thousand bicycles on our streets, City Hall may have pedaled past safety measures, a move that risks significantly exacerbating the number of injuries and fatalities of both bikers and pedestrians, especially those most vulnerable like young children and seniors,” Comptroller Liu said.  “Aside from the human toll, there is a real possibility that the Bike Share program will increase the number of legal claims against the City.” 

Comptroller Liu announced his plan at a news conference in his office in Lower Manhattan, just blocks away from one of the City’s most dangerous intersection for cyclists, Delancey and Essex Streets.

Research has highlighted the dangers of bicycling in New York City. Specifically, recent studies have found that over a third of bicyclists run red lights, bike lines are blocked 60 percent of the time by cars, trucks, and taxis and that New York City is one of the most dangerous cities in the United States for bicyclists.

Liu’s report titled “Bike Share in the City: A Comprehensive Safety Plan” can be found at www.comptroller.nyc.gov, and outlines a number of recommendations to ensure the physical health of riders and the fiscal health of the City.

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Saturday, June 23, 2012

Kingsbridge Road Merchants Association

1ST ANNUAL UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY FESTIVAL

 

  The 1st Annual Unity in the Community Festival, a free community event taking place on Saturday, June 23rd, 2012 from 12PM to 6PM, on Aqueduct Avenue between W. Kingsbridge Road and W. 192nd Street, is presented by the Kingsbridge Road Merchants Association in conjunction with the Mosholu Preservation Corporation, Montefiore Medical Center & the Avenue NYC Program of the New York City Department of Small Business Services, with the support of Bronx Community Board #7, Bronx Community Board #8, BronxNet, Jewish Home Lifecare, Latin Empire Entertainment, Mekong, the United Federation of Teachers, and United Healthcare.


Home to the iconic Kingsbridge Armory, the Kingsbridge Road community consists of over 200 merchants, one of the largest retail shopping districts in the Bronx. Rich in cultural diversity, this neighborhood also boasts top notch eateries throughout the area. The Kingsbridge Road community is the center of education, with campuses for Monroe College, Bronx Community College and Lehman HS.

The purpose of this event is to celebrate community unity and raise awareness on the diverse array of merchants in this district. This first annual event will feature live music and entertainment, showcasing New York City’s most popular and up & coming artists. The show will be hosted by Bharati Kemraj (Bharati Dance Academy) and Harlem Lanes’ most popular DJ, Krazy Rob. From Salsa to Hip-Hop, and everything in between, this special line-up includes rappers Farfecthed, Tone Da Rapper, and D-Minus, Italian Hip Hop artist, SALESE, Bronx native Yamilet Mia, Latin sensation, Anayka, various BX Records artists, Latin music’s newest duo, ICC & J-Alva, as well as a special performance by the BHARATI Dance Academy.

The Unity In The Community Festival will also feature merchants, vendors, kiddie rides, health screenings, free gifts and give-aways, and lots of food!

Left - Just some of the crowd.
Right - State Senator Gustavo Rivera poses for picture with Community Board # 8 Economic Development Chair Sergio Villevarde and 78th Assembly candidate Richardo "Ricky" Martinez.

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Friday, June 22, 2012

2012 Bronx Business Expo

     The Bronx Chamber of Commerce 2012 Business Expo held at the New York Botanical Garden on Tuesday June 19th was a huge success according to Mr. Lenny Caro, President & CEO of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce. That feeling was echoed by those who exhibited and the many many people who came to view the expo. Workshops were set up as the expo got under way on MBWE minority Certification, 4G Technology, and the NY Area Energy Outlook. A video produced by Bronx Net Television of just how the Bronx has grown since BP Diaz took the helm of the Bronx.      New York State Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy, NYC Deputy Mayor Carol Robles, and NYC Department of Small Business Services Assistant Commissioner Greg Bishop joined Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Lenny Caro, and Joesph Kelleher of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce. Over 75 very different companies and service providers from Affinity Health Plan to Webster Bank In his speech to the audience BP Diaz said that business in the Bronx is growing. Diaz mentioned that the J.C. Penny store in Bay Plaza is the number one store for the company in the nation. The Target Store at West 225th Street is the number three store in the chain nationwide, and that the BJ's at the Gateway Mall is the number three store again nationwide. He added that is probably why BJ's is so eager to open another store at the new Riverdale Crossings mall that will replace that old Stella Doro cookie factory. Diaz also mentioned that a new Marriott hotel will soon open up in the Hutch Metro Center as the center expands to include a large size convention center and more retail and office space. As they spoke Lt. Governor Duffy, Deputy Mayor Robles, and SBA Assistant Commissioner Bishop had only words of praise for the Bronx Chamber of Commerce, the Bronx Overall Economic Development Council, and Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

 
 BP Diaz poses for photo as he viewed the exhibitors.

      

Left - BP Diaz addressing the 2012 Business Expo.
Right - A group photo starting from the left is Mr. Lenny Caro, Lt. Gov. Robert Duffy, Bronx BP Ruben Diaz Jr., Asst. Commissioner Greg Bishop, Deputy Mayor Carol Robles, and Mr. Joseph Kelleher.

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Senator Rivera and Assemblyman Dinowitz Pass Smoking Ban Legislation


Legislation Bans Smoking Within 100 Feet of School Entrances and Exits

Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz and State Senator Gustavo Rivera announced yesterday afternoon legislation  A.10141-B/S.6854-B passed in both the State Assembly (102-2) and the State Senate (54-2). This legislation was the first of Senator Rivera’s health bills that was developed from dialogue with health partners and community members during the 2011 Bronx CAN Health Initiative.

“The Bronx has the lowest youth smoking rate of New York City, however, in order to keep our youth safe from smoking-related disease, we have to also work toward limiting children’s exposure to secondhand smoke,” said State Senator Gustavo Rivera. “This legislation [S.6854-B] does just that, by extending the ban on smoking within schools to a ban on smoking within 100 feet of school entrances and exits. I am proud this bill was a product of my work with Bronx elected officials and local community health organizations as part of the Bronx CAN Health Initiative.”

Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, sponsor of the legislation in the Assembly, said, “New York State successfully banned smoking indoors to protect all New Yorkers from the harmful side effects of secondhand smoke. This bill [A.10141-B] seeks to further protect our youth who are now exposed to secondhand smoke at entrances and exits of their school buildings from unwanted exposure. Smoking is particularly dangerous to children. This bill will help to protect them from the scourge of secondhand smoke.”

“I'd like to congratulate Senator Gustavo Rivera, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz and their colleagues that supported S.6854/A.10141-B on the floor of the State Legislature yesterday evening,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “This bill is the first of a comprehensive legislative agenda grown from our Bronx CAN Health Initiative now in its second year. We are uniting all levels of government, community based organizations and social service entities to put forth an aggressive health and wellness campaign for our borough to serve as a model for our city and state.”

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