Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Councilman Andy King Free Food Giveaway


  Councilman Andy King had his district office on Gun Hill Road set up with bags of groceries to be handed out to residents of his district who are in need. About one hundred of his constituents from the Eastchester Garden area were expected, but do to the heavy rain there were fewer people than expected who showed up. This being his first free food giveaway, and with some cans of food left Councilman King then set off to organize his second free food giveaway. 

  The non-perishable food was donated by the nearby Fine Fare Supermarket on Boston Road, The Palm Tree Market Also f Boston Road, and the Food Fest Depot at the Hunt's Point Market according to Councilman King's Chief of Staff Lee Lewis.

  I was able to ask Councilman King a few questions as to why he was hosting a free food giveaway. He said that this is just another service that he wants to offer his constituents. His believing in the lord and good family values has also taught him to help his fellow people without the thought of any rewards. As for the new city council, and the eagerness in making new laws and rules Councilman King (who was elected in a 2012 special election and will be able to serve more that just eight years) said that the new council members are learning their job. He added that he expects this council to be one that makes it mark that is recorded in NYC history, and is proud to be a part of it. 
 













Left - One of Councilman King's staffers fills bags with the non-perishable canned food.
Right - Councilman King speaks with his Chief of Staff Lee Lewis to make sure everything is ready.
 













Left - Councilman King gets into the middle of it as he gets bags of groceries to hand to the people waiting.
Right - Some of the many people who came pose with Councilman King.

Monday, April 28, 2014

Staten Island Congressman Hit With 20 Count Indictment




  Republican Staten Island Congressman Michael Grimm seems to be in a grim situation after being slapped with a 20 count federal indictment that can be found here . The 20 counts include Income Tax Evasion, Conspiracy to defraud the United States, 3 counts of aiding or assisting in the preparation of false or fraudulent tax returns, Health Care Fraud, 5 counts of wire fraud, 5 counts of mail fraud, 2 counts of perjury, obstruction, and unlawful employment of aliens. U.S. Attorney Loretta Lynch is handling the case for the government.

  A statement from Grimm's lawyer Elizabeth Kase said that the embattled Republican Congressman has no plans to resign. She added that the indictment is part of a "Calculated campaign of leaks, rumors, innuendos, and speculation. Congressman Grimm is up for re-election this year and will probably face Democrat former City Councilman Dominick Recchia if Grimm makes it to the November general election.

OVERSIGHT HEARING ON OPERATION CREW CUT AND CRIME REDUCTION STRATEGIES AT NYCHA


   Oversight Hearing on Operation Crew Cut and Crime Reduction Strategies at NYCHA

  In 2011, approximately one-third of all shootings in New York City were committed by youth gangs, known as “crews” that are centered on specific blocks, communities and housing developments. The Committees will examine the cooperation and coordination between the NYPD, NYCHA, and the City’s District Attorneys to address this growing problem and to work with these entities, stakeholders and the public to eradicate crew violence throughout the City.

  On Monday, April 28, Council Member Ritchie Torres, chair of the Committee on Public Housing, Council Member Vanessa Gibson, Chair of the Committee on Public Safety, and Council Member Fernando Cabrera- Chair of the Committee on Juvenile Justice will hold a joint oversight hearing on the effectiveness of Operation Crew Cut and other anti-violence initiatives in reducing gang and crew related violence among youth.

  WHO: Committee on Public Safety, Committee on Juvenile Justice, and Committee on Public Housing, Council Member Vanessa Gibson, Council Member Fernando Cabrera, Council Member Ritchie Torres, Manhattan District Attorney Cy Vance, NYPD Chief of Housing Carlos Gomez and Deputy Chief Michael Harrington; Steve Goldstein, Chief ADA at the Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor;  Carlos Laboy Diaz EVP of Operations for NYHCA, and NYCHA representatives from Community Operations and Family Services.

WHERE: Council Chambers, City Hall

WHEN: Monday, April 28, 1:00 PM
 

  

Sunday, April 27, 2014

ECPW Wrestling St. Francis Xavier School 2014


  ECPW professional wrestling returned to St. Francis Xavier School in the Morris Park section last night. It may not have been John Cena or the Rock, but Greg "The Hammer" Valentine, Bushwaker Luke, and Marty Jannetti were among the wrestlers on hand. The fun started before the first match as the wrestlers greeted the audience, signed autographs, and took photos (some for a fee) with those on hand to see the matches. The night was also special to one of the wrestlers who had his mother in the audience as he announced his retirement from wrestling after 20 years. There were 8 matches in all including 2 that were tag team ones. During the intermission the wrestlers came out again to meet the audience. The end result was that everyone in attendance had fun, that is except for the losers of the matches. You can click on any photo to enlarge it.
   













Left & Right - Wrestlers took photos with audience members.
 













Left - Some wrestlers were seated at tables.
Right - NY State Athletic Commission inspector John Scalesi checks out the ring.


Left - Buswaker Luke has his opponent in the corner.
Right - The Punisher is about to slam his opponent.




 













Left - Arron Bradley is picked up and then dropped to the mat by Luca the Freak.
Right - ECPW Champ Andrew Anderson on his way to the ring.
 











Left - ECPW champ Andrew Andersongoes at it with the crowd.
Right - Anderson and Greg "The Hammer" Valentine in a test of strength.
Left - The Hammer accidentally knocks down the ref and is Disqualified.
Right - Marty Jannetty can only watch from the corner as his partner is taking a beating.

 













Left - Marty Jannetty gets tagged in and is pounding his opponent in the corner.
Right - The New Dynamite Kid is joined by his partner tonight Marty Jannetty and his mother (who was at ringside) after he announced his retirement from wrestling due to back and knee problems.

Saturday, April 26, 2014

"Mary Lauro Way" Dedication


   It was a cool windy morning as the crowd gathered at the corner of Matilda Avenue and East 237th Street in the Wakefield section of the Bronx to honor Mary Lauro who passed away last June. Who was Mary Lauro you may say? Mary Lauro was a resident of Wakefield for over 50 years. Mary Lauro  was the president of the the Wakefield Taxpayers & Civic League Inc. for 25 years which was founded in 1913. It was her civic work in many areas including being a member of Community Board 12 that so many elected officials came for this street renaming in her honor. Mary Lauro also wrote a column in this newspaper where as always she never backed down on issues, one being why several homeless shelters were being built by Mayor Bloomberg in the Wakefield area. 
  As they spoke each elected official mentioned the fact that Mary Lauro had something to say of them and what Mary Lauro had meant to them. Bronx District Attorney Robert Johnson said "Mary Lauro was the director of the office of Accountability". State senator Jeff Klein spoke of the mortgage problems in the Wakefield area she had him assist her on. Assemblyman Carl Heastie said that Mary Lauro cared about White Plains Road and the entire community. Congressman Eliot Engel mentioned that he read into the 113th Congressional Record a statement about Mary Lauro and her never ending work and love for her community. Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz said that all the elected officials on hand would be afraid if they had not come to honor such a great woman. Community Board 12 Chairman Father Richard Gorman an advisory of Mary Lauro on many issues said that her work is far from done, and more people like Mary Lauro are needed to help improve the community. The sister of Mary Lauro said that Mary is missed by the family, but the family did not know how much she is missed by the community.
  Councilman Andy King and former Councilman Oliver Koppell sponsored the legislation for the street sign bearing the name "Mary V. Lauro Way". Ms. Virginia Saunders has taken over as President of the Wakefield Taxpayers & Civic League Inc., and will have some very large shoes to fill.

 













Left - Ms. Virginia Saunders was the mistress of ceremony.
Right - The invocation was given by Rev. Dr. Dien Ashlry Taylor.

 










Left - Father Richard Gorman speaks of the many good deeds that were done by Mary Lauro as the elected officials wait their turn to speak. 
Right - Mary's niece Lorraine is about to pull the covering off of "Mary V. Lauro Way".

 













Left - Everyone had a laugh when the rope to pull the covering off the sign broke saying that it was a sign from Mary Lauro.
Right - The elected officials gather under the new "Mary V. Lauro Way" sign.

UPDATE -
Please look at the first comment to see that I was incorrect in stating that Mary Lauro founded the Wakefield Taxpayers Civic and League inc that was founded in 1913. Ms Lauro was the President for 25 years. The story has been corrected.

Senator Klein Educational Leadership Award Ceremony


  Friday was the Senator Jeff Klein and Healthfirst Educational Leadership Award Ceremony Breakfast. Educators from the 300+ schools in the 34th State Senate district came to receive Certificates of Appreciation from 34th State Senator Jeff Klein. Senator Klein in his speech thanked those who came from the public and parochial  schools in his district, praising them for their hard work. He then went into the dynamics of the state budget and how he was able to secure 300 million dollars for Mayor de Blasio's Pre-K program for the next five years. 50,000 children are to receive full day Pre-K starting this September, and 70,000 the following school year. 
  Senator Klein in his speech mentioned the coming of Community Learning Centers. These centers are fashioned after the very successful ones that were put in place in Cincinnati. Klein also spoke about the very successful events that schools in the 34th district have done due to funding from Project Boost secured by him. He finished by saying all schools in the district will get grants from Project Boost.

 













Left - Senator Jeff Klein chats with some of the attendees.
Right - Senator Klein is explaining the state budget process, and how he was able to get the funding for Mayor de Blasio's Pre-K program.

 









Left & Right - Senator Klein with some of the educators who received Certificates of Appreciation from him.

Thursday, April 24, 2014

Elected Officials to Attend Street Renaming Ceremony for Wakefield Activist Mary Lauro


 
Who: Council Members Andrew Cohen and Andy King, Congressman Eliot Engel, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, State Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson, the Wakefield Taxpayers and members of the public.

What: A ceremony to rename Matilda Avenue in honor of Mary V. Lauro, a dedicated community activist.

When: Saturday, April 26th at 11:00am

Where: Matilda Avenue between East 236th Street and East 237th Street
 

Mary V. Lauro was a longtime, dedicated community activist in the Wakefield area.  She served as President of the Wakefield Taxpayers for 25 years where she worked with local law enforcement to increase public safety in the community.  Mary was known as a uniting force that brought people together to preserve the integrity of her community.  She also was a former member of Bronx Community Board 12, a leader within the 47th Precinct Community Council and an active parishioner at Saint Frances of Rome Church.  

Wave Hill Events May 9–May 16: Mother's Day!


  How wonderful to celebrate Mom in a place so sumptuously well nurtured by Mother Nature herself! And May, with all its splendid, heart-lifting signs of renewal, is surely the best moment of the year to celebrate the instinct to foster and sustain. A bird walk, a family project crafting fragrant sachets made just for Mom, a session for her of yoga or meditation, a scrumptious celebratory brunch, followed perhaps by a guided tour of the gallery or the gardens—Make your brunch reservation early, then simply relax.


SAT, MAY 10    FAMILY ART PROJECT: SACHETS AND FLORAL FANTASY FOR MOM
Honor Mom with paper flowers, sachets and unique flowery gifts. Join us to make a fragrant sachet filled with lavender, tied with ribbon and bows and decorated with buds. Visiting artist Lina Puerta will help us create unique jewelry out of paper beads, found objects and other materials found in nature. Free and admission to the grounds is free until noon.
WAVE HILL HOUSE, 10AM

SAT, MAY 10    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. In this beginner-level class, Irving Yee, a member of the William CC Chen Tai Chi School, introduces students to the internal martial arts and promotes an awareness of its benefits. Sessions are held outdoors as weather permits. Session fee: $25/$15 Wave Hill Member. Register online and, day of, onsite at the Perkins Visitor Center. (Reservations may not be made by telephone.) Online registration closes at 8AM on the day of the session. Cancellations must be made by 3PM the Friday before; after that, refunds will not be made.  Drops-ins will be accommodated as the limited space permits. Participants must present a Member’s ID card or a printed program registration form at the front gate.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 10‒11AM

SAT, MAY 10    GALLERY TOUR
Join a curatorial assistant for a tour of Wave Hill's spring exhibition, Prickly, Tender and Steamy: Artists in the Hothouse, which assembles artworks that were created during Wave Hill's Winter Workspace program over the last five years. During their residencies, Manuel Acevedo, Gabriela Albergaria, Carrie Beckmann, Susan Benarcik, Matthew Burcaw, Asuka Hishiki, Nick Lamia, Lina Puerta, Naomi Reis, Anne-Katrin Spiess, Linda Stillman, James Walsh and Marion Wilson closely examined, and were inspired by, the living collection in Wave Hill's Marco Polo Stufano Conservatory. Representing a wide variety of mediums, the works on view give visitors multiple ways to observe the plants in the Tropical, Palm, Cactus & Succulent Houses. In the Sunroom Project Space, Brandon Neubauer's installation incorporates video projection, photographs and recorded sounds to create a portrait of the Wave Hill site that engages time, optical phenomena, topography and found objects. Tours take place Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2PM. Free with admission to the grounds.
GLYNDOR GALLERY, 2PM

SUN, MAY 11    SPRING BIRDING
Naturalist Gabriel Willow contributes his extensive knowledge of diverse bird species and their behavior on these captivating walks through the gardens and woodlands. Observe the plants, insects and habitats at Wave Hill that make it an appealing destination for a wide variety of birds. Ages 10 and older welcome with an adult. Birders of all levels welcome! Severe weather cancels. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all weekend. (NYC Audubon Members enjoy two-for-one admission.) Registration recommended, online at www.wavehill.org, onsite at the Perkins Visitor Center or by calling 718.549,3200 x251.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 9:30AM

SUN, MAY 11    FAMILY ART PROJECT: SACHETS AND FLORAL FANTASY FOR MOM
Honor Mom with paper flowers, sachets and unique flowery gifts. Join us to make a fragrant sachet filled with lavender, tied with ribbon and bows and decorated with buds. Visiting artist Lina Puerta will help us create unique jewelry out of paper beads, found objects and other materials found in nature. Free with admission to the grounds.
WAVE HILL HOUSE, 10AM‒1PM

SUN, MAY 11   HATHA YOGA
Reduce stress, increase your energy and bring strength and flexibility to mind, body and spirit with a yoga practice. Classes are led by Yoga for Bliss director Neem Dewji and other certified instructors. Ms. Dewji is certified in Hatha and Therapeutic Yoga from The Yoga for Health Foundation, England, and The Integral Yoga Institute, NYC. All levels welcome. Sessions are held indoors until May. Session fee: $25/$15 Wave Hill Member. Register online and, day of, onsite at the Perkins Visitor Center. (Reservations may not be made by telephone.) Online registration closes at 8AM on the day of the session. Cancellations must be made by 3PM the Friday before; after that, refunds will not be made.  Drops-ins will be accommodated as the limited space permits. Participants must present a Member’s ID card or a printed program registration form at the front gate.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 10‒11:15AM

SUN, MAY 11     MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH
Presented by Wave Hill's long-time partner and exclusive caterer Great Performances, New York City’s premier catering and events company, this very special brunch in historic Wave Hill House’s Armor Hall will feature a beautiful spread of unique twists on classic brunch presentations and is perfect for honoring Mother’s Day. Seatings will be offered at 11:00 and 11:30AM.  Wave Hill’s Welcome Spring Brunch is $45 per person excluding tax and gratuity—and Wave Hill Members enjoy a 10% discount. Please note that payment will not be accepted day-of and must be received by noon on May 8.  Reservations may be made online or by calling 718.549.3200 x395. Guests will be provided with a secured credit card payment link to purchase tickets online at wavehillreservations@greatperformances.com.
WAVE HILL HOUSE, 111 & 11:30AM

SUN, MAY 11    MEDITATION
This spring, take a moment to release stress and reconnect with your inner self while practicing meditation. Each session includes instruction in simple techniques followed by 20 to 30 minutes of meditation. Classes are led by Yoga for Bliss director Neem Dewji and other certified instructors. All levels welcome. Sessions are held indoors. Session fee: $25/$15 Wave Hill Member. Register online and, day of, onsite at the Perkins Visitor Center. (Reservations may not be made by telephone.) Online registration closes at 8AM on the day of the session. Cancellations must be made by 3PM the Friday before; after that, refunds will not be made. Drops-ins will be accommodated as the limited space permits. Participants must present a Member’s ID card or a printed program registration form at the front gate.
MEET AT PERKINS VISITOR CENTER, 11:30AM‒12:45PM

SUN, MAY 11   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, MAY 12
Closed to the public.

TUE, MAY 13    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, 11AM

TUE, MAY 13    GALLERY TOUR
Join a curatorial assistant for a tour of Wave Hill's spring exhibition, Prickly, Tender and Steamy: Artists in the Hothouse, which assembles artworks that were created during Wave Hill's Winter Workspace program over the last five years. During their residencies, Manuel Acevedo, Gabriela Albergaria, Carrie Beckmann, Susan Benarcik, Matthew Burcaw, Asuka Hishiki, Nick Lamia, Lina Puerta, Naomi Reis, Anne-Katrin Spiess, Linda Stillman, James Walsh and Marion Wilson closely examined, and were inspired by, the living collection in Wave Hill's Marco Polo Stufano Conservatory. Representing a wide variety of mediums, the works on view give visitors multiple ways to observe the plants in the Tropical, Palm, Cactus & Succulent Houses. In the Sunroom Project Space, Brandon Neubauer's installation incorporates video projection, photographs and recorded sounds to create a portrait of the Wave Hill site that engages time, optical phenomena, topography and found objects. Tours take place Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2PM. Free, and admission to the grounds is free all day.
GLYNDOR GALLERY, 2PM

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 15October 31.  
ADMISSION  $8 adults, $4 students and seniors 65+, $2 children 6—18. Free Saturday mornings until noon. Free until noon on Tuesdays in May. Free to Wave Hill Members and children under 6.

PROGRAM FEES  Programs 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 30 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.
 

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

NYC COMPTROLLER STRINGER REPORT REVEALS NEW DATA ON THE GROWING CRISIS IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN NEW YORK CITY


  Apartment Rents in New York City Skyrocket as Real Incomes Decline;
Low Income Households Spend Over 41% of Income on Rent

  Housing in New York City became less affordable since 2000 as the median apartment rent rose by 75 percent while real incomes declined, according to new research and analysis presented in “The Growing Gap: New York City’s Housing Affordability Challenge,” a report issued today by New York City Comptroller Scott M. Stringer. 
“Despite multi-billion dollar initiatives to expand the affordable housing stock in New York City, apartments have become more expensive across every income level with the working poor disproportionately affected,” Comptroller Stringer said.  “It is critical to understand our City’s housing landscape so that we can target the next investment of resources.  New York City’s position among global cities will be defined by how well we respond to this crisis.”
Stringer’s wide-ranging report is a snapshot of the state of New York City’s housing ecology.  The report examines the effect of demographic and economic trends in the City’s housing market, focusing on affordability, population growth, the centrality of public housing, costs of homeownership, homelessness, and rent regulation.
The report’s findings include:
  • A 75 percent increase in the median apartment rent in New York City since 2000, 31 percentage points higher than the rest of the U.S. Over the same period, the median real income of New Yorkers declined by 4.8 percent as the nation struggled to emerge from two recessions.
  • Housing affordability decreased for renters in every income group during this period, with the harshest consequences for poor and working New Yorkers earning less than $40,000 a year.
  • Five areas, Chelsea and Clinton and Midtown, Brooklyn Heights and Fort Greene, Williamsburg and Greenpoint, Greenwich Village and Financial District and Park Slope and Carroll Gardens, accounted for 40,000 of the 43,000 net additional households earning $100,000 or more.
  • Nearly 360,000 apartments renting for $400 to $1,000 per month (in 2012 dollars) disappeared during the 2000 to 2012 period. The real median rent jumped from $839 to $1,100 in that same period, a 31 percent increase.
  • For low-income households, housing costs have gone from bad to worse.  In 2000, renters earning between $20,000 and $40,000 were spending one third of their income on rent.  Twelve years later, that group spent over 41 percent on average.  This group’s housing circumstances have become more precarious even though their labor force participation rates have soared.  
Stringer’s report identifies five areas of focus for policymakers:
  1. Alleviate the crushing affordability squeeze on low-income working families. Working families at the bottom end of the ladder – those making less than $40,000 a year -- have seen their incomes stagnate, while the supply of rental apartments affordable to them is rapidly evaporating. Programs need to be geared to the specific income needs of this burgeoning group.  
  2. Invest in the stability and preservation of the New York City Housing Authority. The intensity of the City’s low-income housing situation reinforces the essential role played by NYCHA, as well as the need for greater investment in public housing by every level of government. The cost of rehabilitating a single NYCHA unit is estimated at less than one-third the cost of constructing a new unit.  
  3. Adopt a new mix of policies to reverse the alarming increase in homelessness. The City’s shelter population currently stands at more than 52,000, including over 22,000 children – an historic high. New strategies are needed to minimize the human and budgetary costs of a shelter system bursting at the seams.
  4. Repair the rent regulation system. New York’s rent regulated housing stock is losing covered units at a faster rate than they are being replaced.  One of the City’s greatest housing challenges in the next decade will be to find ways to preserve existing housing stock or replenish it through new construction.
  5. Address the special housing needs of the elderly and disabled. The demographic shift in the City’s low-income population towards the elderly will only grow as more Baby Boomers reach retirement age. Many in this age group are homeowners and may need specialized services that allow them to remain in their homes.
“For New York City to remain a global financial center and hub for innovation in the 21st century, we must find ways for people to afford to live here.  In the modern era, there has been a crisis of affordability, but the conditions and the demands of that crisis have changed.  We have begun to define the issues, now begins the work to provide affordable housing at all levels of the economic spectrum,” Stringer said.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

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

   Things That You Should Know
 
You should know that on June 24, 2014, New York State will host its Primary only for candidates running for the US Congress. This legal change was made 2 years ago when Federal District Court Judge Gary L. Sharpe ruled in a lawsuit that a September primary will not allow sufficient time to send absentee ballots to military voters.  This will be the second time that New Yorkers will experience separate primaries for federal and state races.

You should also know that the Bronx has become a hot topic for the June 24th Congressional Primaries. There are two contested Congressional seats within the borders of the Bronx that will be decided by Bronx County voters.

You should know that Congressman Charlie Rangel, who now represents part of the Bronx, will be facing a rematch by State Senator Adriano Espaillat.  Every single Hispanic elected official has thrown his and her support behind the aspirations of Adriano Espaillat - except for Bronx Congressman José Serrano and his son, Senator José Marco Serrano - who as of yet have refused to support the Dominican-born Congressional candidate.

There is also a Dominican woman by the name of Yolanda Garcia who announced her candidacy, and is expected to take Dominican votes away from Adriano Espaillat.

These two issues about Congressman Serrano's refusal to endorse Espaillat - and Yolanda Garcia's possible draw from Dominicans -may prove to be Espaillat's Achilles' heel.

A similar picture is painted on Congressman Rangel's side where an African-American leader, Reverend Michael Walrond is another contender against the incumbent Congressman. Reverend  Waldron is the pastor of the First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem and ministries director of Al Sharpton’s National Action Network.  He is expected to draw votes away from Congressman Rangel's Harlem base.  This could be Congressman Rangel's Achilles' heel.

You should know that Charlie Rangel is getting support from former US President Bill Clinton, US Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and the Minority Leader of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi.

You can see how this June 24th Congressional Democratic Primary will draw all eyes on Bronx County and the elections of Charlie Rangel and Adriano Espaillat.  Both candidates come with heavy endorsements and carry heavy expectations - and they both have their Achilles' heels.  Therefore, this is may very well be the war of the Titans!

Aside from this, you should know that Congressman José Serrano - who has always counted on the Bronx Democratic County's endorsement and support - has learned how different it will be for him this year as he will be responsible for collecting his own petitions. He will need close to 1,200 valid signatures - and he only submitted a little over 4,000.  In the past, the Bronx Democratic County has always helped him to come in with 15,000 - 20,000 signatures. This lesson given by the Democratic Bronx Committee to Congressman Serrano will make everyone understand how different it is when you don’t have County support.

You should also know that in September there will be a regular Democratic primary for New York State Governor, Attorney General, Comptroller, State Senate and State Assembly. Again, the Bronx will be a hot topic where there are two State Senators who might be facing tough and serious primaries.

First, New York City Councilmember Fernando Cabrera is expected to challenge State Senator Gustavo Rivera.  This race is gearing up to be a very interesting September primary.  And - State Senator Jeff Klein is expected to be challenged by former New York City Councilman and former New York Attorney General Oliver Koppell.

We all know that perception is everything in politics.  That said, on Tuesday, April 22nd, Senator Jeff Klein held a press conference to kick off his re-election campaign with the support of almost every elected official from Bronx County.  There were union leaders and business leaders and community residents all gathered in what I can only describe as a majestic show of force. I can only imagine that a show of force like that would send shivers up the spine of anyone expected to challenge Senator Jeff Klein.

If I were one of the potential contenders in Senator Jeff Klein's primary race, after hearing about and seeing what happened at the April 22nd gathering, I would probably issue a press release saying something like this:  "After consulting with my family and loved ones, at this time I have decided not to run for any office so I can spend more time with my family and children."

That is something I would do if I were one of those challengers - but I am not one of them.

I am Senator Reverend Rubén Díaz, and these are things you should know.

 

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Senator Jeff Klein Announces Re-election Bid


   With over 200 friends, community activists, community board members, and fellow elected officials State Senate Co-Leader Jeff Klein announced his intention to run for another term in the state senate. The elected officials who came to support Senator Klein were Current Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., former Bronx BP Freddy Ferrer, State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. Assembly members Mike Benedetto, Marcos Crespo, Mark Gjonaj, Jose Rivera, and Luis Sepulveda, Council members Fernando Cabrera, Ritchie Torres and Jimmy Vacca. Bronx Democratic County Leader Assemblyman Carl Heastie conveyed his support through Bronx BP Diaz due to the illness of his daughter. The only elected official missing from the 34th district was Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz of Riverdale where Senator Klein's possible opponent former Councilman Oliver Koppell is also from.
   As you will see in the photos below there was only high praise for the job that State Senate Co-Leader Jeff Klein has done from every elected official who spoke. Councilman Ritchie Torres the Rookie of the elected officials said that it is Jeff Klein who I look up to. State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. spoke the longest since he is in the senate with Senator Jeff Klein, and Diaz Sr. said that he has seen Klein work with both sides of the isle to get things done adding just like it is done in Washington. Former Bronx BP Ferrer said that he appointed Jeff Klein to his first position, that being as a community board member. Bronx BP Ruben Diaz Jr. gave his endorsement of Senator Klein yesterday at the press conference with Mayor de Blasio in the Riverdale section of the 34th district when he said that the Pre-K initiative was made possible because of the efforts of Jeff Klein. Mayor de Blasio said the same thing, but when asked if he was supporting Senator Klein for re-election, while trying to skirt the question the mayor did not say yes, but he did not say no.The best line from an elected official had to come from Assemblyman Mike Benedetto when he said "Thank God we have Jeff Klein".











Left - You can see the packed house for Senator Klein.
Right - Councilman Jimmy Vacca has only words of praise for his long time friend Jeff Klein.
 












Left - Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. speaks of the accomplishments that Senator Jeff Klein has done.
Right - Senator Ruben Diaz sr. Talks about what it is like in Albany under the leadership of Jeff Klein.

Both Bronx Borough President welcome Senator Klein to the podium to address the hundreds gathered.


Monday, April 21, 2014

Mayor Bill de Blasio Visits Riverdale Pre-K Site

           
  Mayor Bill deBlasio came to Riverdale to visit one of the longest running Pre-K site that has successfully been in operation since the 1940's according to Daniel Eudene the Executive Director of the Riverdale Neighborhood Neighborhood House. Currently 70 children are being served with half day Pre-K that will increase to full day Pre-K starting at the beginning of the new school year in September. As he arrive Mayor de Blasio stopped to chat with Ms. Melissa Shields mother of a soon to be Pre-K child and her one year old sister. The mayor and the local elected officials then toured the Riverdale Neighborhood House to see the Pre-K program in action. They also learned that the RNN is also a teen after school center and much more.
  The mayor and other elected officials then came outside to discuss what they had seen and just what the mayor's Pre-K program was all about. As he spoke Mayor de Blasio thanked State Senator Jeff Klein in getting the funding put into the state budget after the mayor was unable to have a Pre-K tax passed in Albany. Senator Klein said as Co-Leader of the state senate that he was not going to approve a state budget that did not have a Pre-K plan in it. Klein and other elected officials who spoke said that when children go through a Pre- K class that the students do better in school than others who do not receive the benefit of a Pre-K class. 
  Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. echoed Senator Klein's words with the story of his two children who received a Pre-K program, and now both are in college with one graduating soon. Riverdale Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz and Councilman Andrew Cohen were also on hand, and both gave examples of the virtue of the Pre[-K program.
  The deadline for public school sign up was Wednesday April 23rd, but with many public schools not having enough space (if any) Community Based Organizations such as RNN will be called upon to fill the over 50,000 Pre-K seats that are projected for the beginning 0f the September 2014 school year. Mayor de Blasio said that when the Pre-K program is fully implemented in its second year that 70,000 Pre-K seats will be available citywide.











Left - Mayor Bill de Blasio chats with Mellisa Shields mother of 3 1/2 year old  Isabella and 1 year old Zoey.
Right - Mayor de Blasio explains the Pre-K plan as Senator Jeff Klein watches with Bronx BP Ruben Diaz Jr. and schools chancellor Carmen Farina also in the photo.












Left - State Senate Co-Leader  Jeff Klein speaks about how he would not approve a state budget that did not include the funding for the Pre-K program by Mayor de Blasio.
Right - Bronx BP Ruben Diaz Jr. tells of the success story in his family of his two children going to college. He adds that it was the Pre-K program that they attended that built the solid educational foundation for them.
RNN Executive Director Daniel Eudene explains the success of the RNN Pre-K program that dates back to the 1940's. It currently has 70 children in its Pre-K program. 

BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ ISSUES NEGATIVE ULURP RECOMMENDATION ON CITY ISLAND BRIDGE


  Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. issued a negative recommendation on the proposed construction of a new City Island Bridge. The recommendations come as part of the borough president’s charter mandated responsibilities in the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP).

“The entire process surrounding the planning and construction of this bridge has been flawed from the very start,” said Borough President Diaz. “The previous administration simply ignored the valid criticisms of the residents of City Island regarding this project, and I cannot support its construction at this time.”

Borough President Diaz noted that he was pleased that Department of Transportation Commissioner Polly Trottenberg was reevaluating the current project, specifically looking to see if the current plan can be swapped for a more muted, scaled-down design that is more in line with community suggestions.

“Without question I believe this entire matter could have been better addressed by the previous administration.  The ushering in of a new administration, however, provides an opportunity to address the current bridge design.   I am committed in pursuing an alternative vision for the City Island Bridge, which has for so long been sought by the City Island community,” stated Borough President Diaz in his ULURP recommendation.

The complete ULURP recommendation can be read at: http://on.nyc.gov/1ixUD51.

“My office will continue to work with Commissioner Trottenberg and the Department of Transportation, local elected officials and the City Island community to develop a reasonable solution to this issue,” said Borough President Diaz.

Mayor de Blasio to Visit Riverdale Pre-K


  The Daily Politics is reporting that Mayor Bill de Blasio will be visiting a Riverdale Pre-K with State Senate Co-Leader Jeff Klein this afternoon. The Pre-K location was not identified in the story, and it was also said that there would be a press conference after the visit.

  Stare Senate Co-Leader Jeff Klein was the first to agree with the de Blasio Pre-K tax plan. After the tax hike failed Klein continued to rally on behalf of the mayor for Pre-K and after school programs that were put into the recently passed state budget. 

  Check back later for more information on what happened.


Sunday, April 20, 2014

DiNapoli Halts $24 Million in Suspicious Tax Refunds


  New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli announced that his office stopped more than $24 million in questionable personal income tax refunds so far in 2014, after finding 7,482 improper filings –an 18 percent rise from last year. To date, DiNapoli's office audited and approved 4.8 million state refund requests totaling $4.3 billion.  Another 346,000 refund requests totaling $352.5 million are expected to be paid in the coming days.
“Those who break the rules will not profit at others’expense,”DiNapoli said. “Tax cheats are continually coming up with new schemes to get money they aren’t entitled to. My office works diligently to make sure only legitimate refunds are paid.”
DiNapoli’s office audits all New York state bills prior to payment, including personal income tax refunds. The majority of questionable returns were filed by taxpayers who claimed refundable credits based on incorrect information such as fake or inflated number of dependents or understated income.
Questionable personal income tax refunds stopped to date include:
Reason for Stopping Tax Refund
Number of Refunds
Dollar Value of Refunds
Taxpayer claimed ineligible refundable credits (e.g., fake or inflated number of dependents or understated income)
4,805
$16,043,950
Tax preparer submitted returns with refundable credits based on incorrect information
1,204
3,722,310
Taxpayer had questionable social security number
625
1,709,045
Taxpayer failed to claim correct income
467
1,216,845
Taxpayer had questionable itemized deductions
154
570,405
Taxpayer claimed incorrect wages and withholding tax
73
97,384
Other
154
724,326
Total Refunds Stopped
7,482
$24,084,265
The Comptroller issued a separate report summarizing the results of his office’s audit of refunds during the period January 1, 2013 through December 31, 2013.  During that year, DiNapoli’s auditors stopped 12,746 questionable refunds totaling over $93.3 million.  Of the $93.3 million in questionable refunds, DiNapoli's auditors estimated their efforts produced $62.6 million in savings.













Upcoming cultural events at JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center in late April and May 2014:


  Fri. Apr. 25th: “You Ain’t Heard Nothin’ Yet”: The Life and  Times of Al Jolson by Jan Hernstadt, Pres. of the International Al Jolson Society, will present live vocal music plus video clips at 1:00 PM. Delectable kosher lunch served at 12:15 PM. Recommended senior meal contribution is $2.00 and $1.00 event contribution.
 
 Sun. Apr. 27th for FELICITAS, a play with music written and performed by Libby Skala with music written and performed on mandolin by Steven May. The true story of the youngest of three Austrian-emigre sisters born under the Hapsburg Empire, a sought-after baby nurse who showers gentle love on newborns and tough love on parents, while working to balance her personal life with her professional devotion. A nutritious kosher lunch will be served at 12:15 PM followed by FELICITAS at 1:00 PM. Recommended senior meal contribution is $3.00 plus $2.00 for event. Non senior meal contribution is $6.15 and $3.00 for event.

  Sun. May 4th: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Chameleon, a music group that performs the traditional music of Latin America including Brazilian choros, walzes, sambas; Venezuelan joropos, meringues; Argentinian tangos; Colombian cumbias and music from Cuba, Peru, Bolivia, Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Performance at 1:00 PM. Recommended senior meal contribution (Moroccan sole) is $3.00 plus $2.00 for event. Non senior meal fee is $6.15 and $3.00 for event.

  Thurs. May 8th: aTmA Duo: violinists Allyson and Melissa will perform classical and pop duets in celebration of Mother’s Day at 1:00 PM. Recommended senior meal contribution is $2.00 plus $1.00 for event. Non senior meal fee is $6.15 and $2.00 for event.

  New Music & Memories Course with Yael Acher, Musician/Educator starts on Wed. May 14th at 11:00 AM. View dvd's of legendary performances by musicians, orchestras,ensembles across many genres and share your responses and experiences with other participants.

  Wed. May 21st Belated Israel Independence Day celebration with the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale Community Choir at 6:30 PM preceded by an ethnic dinner at 5:30 PM. Recommended senior meal contribution (chicken cutlet Francaise) is $3.00 plus $2.00 for event. Non senior meal fee is $6.15 and $3.00 for event.

  Thurs. May 29th: The Meetles, a Rock Tribute Band will play 50’s and 60’s rock classics at 1:00 PM. Recommended senior meal contribution is $2.00 plus $1.00 for event. Non senior meal fee is $6.15 and $2.00 for event.

Please call in special event meal reservations to the senior center office 718-549-4700 in advance.
A nutritious kosher lunch is served at 12:15 PM daily.

Please call the center office for specific menu information. An alternate meal choice is available daily. Daily recommended senior meal contribution is $2.00.

  JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center offers Senior Fitness on Mon., Exercise, Tai Chi and Ballroom Dance on Tues., Gentle Exercise and Flowing Yoga on Wed. PM, Yoga on Thurs. and Tone & Stretch on Fri. All exercise instructors are certified. Call the center at 718-549-4700 for dates and times of these classes.

  All meals at JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center are catered by Mauzone (kosher) Meal Service. We offer a daily alternate choice of main dish. Refreshments are served at all cultural arts events.

  We are located in the Van Cortlandt Jewish Center at 3880 Sedgwick Ave. (on the first floor). Take the Bronx #1, 2 or 10 bus to the intersection of Sedgwick Ave. and Van Cortlandt Ave. West. For more information, please call the center office at 718-549-4700.

  JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center is funded by NYC Dept. for the Aging, UJA- Federation of NY and by special grants from  Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.


Saturday, April 19, 2014

Easter Bunny Comes to Allerton Avenue












  No it was not an escaped animal from the Bronx Zoo, but the Easter Bunny that was spotted on Allerton Avenue this morning.  This Easter Bunny was looking for children to help paint Easter eggs and have their photos taken with the Easter Bunny. 















Left - As the Easter Bunny walked down the street there were children and parents who greeted the Easter Bunny.
Right - Children are painting their Easter eggs.
Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj who was sponsoring the event holds a proud little girl who is showing off the Easter egg she made.
Here the Easter Bunny is with Assemblyman Gjonaj, Bronx Democratic County Organization Executive Director Iashia Bravo, and her son.