Funding Announced for Eight Community Center Projects Across New York City

 

2245 Bedford Avenue, via Google Maps.

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $100 million in capital grants through the NY BRICKS program, with $32 million directed toward eight community center projects across New York City. The funding will support renovations and new construction at centers serving youth, families, and seniors throughout the five boroughs. Administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, the program prioritizes underserved communities and essential services such as eldercare, mental health, and childcare. 

1130 Grand Concours, via Google Maps.

In The Bronx, BronxWorks will receive $5 million to renovate its facility at 1130 Grand Concourse. Graham Windham will also receive $5 million for its community center at 1946 Webster Avenue, and the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation will receive $15 million to build a new center at 550 East Tremont Avenue.

In Brooklyn, Madison Square Boys & Girls Club will use $639,214 to renovate its facility at 2245 Bedford Avenue, and the Center for Family Life in Sunset Park will receive $452,000 for upgrades at 443 39th Street.

67-09 Kissena Boulevard, via Google Maps.

Additional projects include $5 million to Queens Community House to renovate the Pomonok Community Center at 67-09 Kissena Boulevard, and $825,965 for Sunnyside Community Services at 43-31 39th Street. Grand Street Settlement in Manhattan will also receive $1.44 million to improve its facility at 175 Delancey Street. The awards will support a combination of renovations, additions, and new construction efforts across all sites.

“NY BRICKS grants will create affordable and accessible spaces where kids can play, families can connect, and seniors can stay active and engaged,” said Governor Hochul. “I’m proud to see this funding reach 30 communities, and I look forward to seeing these centers come to life.”

DEC ISSUES NINE ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITS TO MICRON NEW YORK SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING PROJECT IN ONONDAGA COUNTY

 

Permits Include Protective Conditions to Avoid and Mitigate Potential Natural Resource Impacts 

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced the issuance of nine environmental permits that help support the start of construction for the transformative Micron New York Semiconductor Manufacturing LLC project in the town of Clay, Onondaga County. DEC’s transparent and thorough reviews of Micron’s applications include public review and comment to ensure protection of public health and the environment.

“The permits finalized provide important requirements for the protection of freshwater wetlands, water quality, and endangered and threatened species by minimizing impacts to natural areas, enhancing research, and ensuring conservation through monitoring while also preserving responsible economic development for Central New York,” Commissioner Lefton said. “I thank the DEC teams who worked across multiple offices and regulatory jurisdictions for their valuable insight and appreciate those who continue to engage with DEC in the permitting process.”

 

The permits issued include freshwater wetlands, endangered and threatened species, and six mitigation projects to create, restore, and enhance wetlands, in addition to a Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certificate. In July, DEC offered a public comment period that closed in September and two virtual public comment hearings in August.

 

In addition, a draft Air Title V permit is currently available for public comment until Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025. DEC also held two virtual public comment hearings on the proposed air permit application earlier this week. Additional comment periods are open on connected actions that would extend water and gas service to the Micron main campus. Details about public comment periods and additional permitting updates can be found on DEC’s Micron New York Semiconductor Manufacturing LLC webpage. Final permitting materials will be posted as soon as practicable.

Assemblymember John Zaccaro, Jr.'s Annual District Office Holiday Toy Giveaway is Back!

 

Friends,

The holiday season is here, and I am once again proud to bring holiday cheer to our community.

Please join me for our annual Holiday Toy Giveaway on Friday, December 19th at 5:00PM in my community office located at 2018 Williamsbridge Rd. 

This event is FREE for the community and open to children 16 years old and under.

Please note: All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Event Details:

• When: Friday, December 19th
• Time: 5:00PM – 7:00PM  
• Where: Assemblymember John Zaccaro, Jr.’s Community Office, 2018 Williamsbridge Dr.

For more details, please see the flyer below.

Happy Holidays,

John Zaccaro, Jr.

New York State Assemblymember

East Bronx History Forum Presentation, Wednesday, December 17th, 7:30pm: Bronx River Parkway and its Growth.

 

Dear East Bronx History Forum Member, 

Our last meeting for calendar year 2025 will focus on the Bronx River Parkway and its Growth. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Parkway, which I’m certain many of us have travelled upon from time to time and enjoyed its seasonal grandeur throughout the year. Mr. Stephen DeVillo will be our speaker this month, a most reliable and prolific lecturer. Stephen is a local historian and a longtime walking tour guide of the Bronx River Rambles and has given numerous talks and webinars on topics of the Bronx River, the Revolutionary War and local history. This lecture will focus on the birth and development of The Bronx River Parkway, from 1925 to present-day.

Planned as a project to preserve the Bronx River, the Bronx River Parkway combined a low-speed leisure drive with a linear park that ran from the Botanical Garden to the Kensico Dam in Westchester. Ride along with Stephen DeVillo as we explore the surprising and sometimes controversial origins of the Bronx River Parkway and Reservation, along with the many changes (both proposed and completed) that have happened through its 100-year history.

The East Bronx History Forum will be holding its 200th meeting this December 17th at 7:30 pm in Msgr. Joseph Raimondo Hall located in the lower level of St. Clare of Assisi Church at 1027 Rhinelander Avenue. There is ample free parking just north of the main entrance on Paulding Avenue. Please, remember to follow us at BronxNYC.com, and on our Facebook, Instagram, Vimeo and Youtube account pages for the most current updates or information. Additionally, this month we will be sponsored by Arthur Cantina Wine and Liquor located on Arthur Avenue in the Little Italy section of the Bronx, who will be providing gifts for our 50/50 raffle, we look forward to seeing you during the Holiday season.

Dorothy A. Krynicki 

Secretary 

Wave Hill Weekly Events (Dec 18 – Dec 25) | Indulge in the Season's Magic!: Winter Solstice & More

 

The city crowds during the holiday season and dazzle those from near and far with towering buildings and bustling streets. Separate from the sea of people downtown and escape to a magical retreat in the pocket of The Bronx. Twinkling lights line the path of the garden and glimmer as the night comes alive before your eyes, casting a glow on the faces of you and your loved ones. Instead of getting lost in the big city, chase this season’s magic and make these special moments personal at Wave Hill! 

  

Winter Haven at Wave Hill 

Thu, Dec 4 – Sun, Jan 4 | All Day 

Prices Vary 

Winter Haven returns to Wave Hill with a season of quiet wonder! 

  

Nature & Wellness 

 

Garden Highlights Walk 

Sun, Dec 21, 1:00PM – 1:30PM    

Free with admission to the grounds     

Registration not required.    

Join a knowledgeable Wave Hill Garden Guide for a leisurely stroll in the gardens. Topics vary by season and the expertise of the Guide; each walk varies with the Guide leading it. 

 

Winter Solstice Walk 

Sat, Dec 20, 3:30PM – 4:30PM    

Free with admission to the grounds     

Registration encouraged.    

Bundle up and explore the serene winter garden on the shortest day of the year, guided by Senior Horticultural Interpreter Jess Brey. As the setting sun casts long shadows across the landscape, enjoy a stroll among seasonal botanical wonders.  Ages 10 and older welcome with an adult.   

 

Family 

 

Winter Solstice Wishes 

Thu, Dec 18, 4:00PM – 6:30PM 

Free with admission to the grounds  

Registration encouraged 

Celebrate the longest night of the year, the Winter Solstice, with lantern-crafting, cookie-decorating, and warm wishes for the season. Gather in Armor Hall to decorate solstice-inspired sugar cookies and design a simple paper lantern with your wish for the year ahead. Then, head outside for a lantern-lit procession to float your wish lantern at the Aquatic Garden. Perfect for families!  

 

Family Art Project: Winter Silhouettes 

Sat, Dec 20, 10:00AM – 1:00PM 

Sun, Dec 21, 10:00AM – 1:00PM 

Free with admission to the grounds  

Registration not required. 

In honor of the winter solstice, we’ll brighten things up by using lamps to create playful shadows of wintertime animals. Discover the shapes and unique features that allow us to identify creatures from afar.    

       

Special Events  

 

Winter Haven at Wave Hill 

Thu, Dec 4 – Sun, Jan 4 | All Day 

Prices Vary 

Winter Haven returns to Wave Hill! This winter, slow down and savor the season in the quiet wonder of the Garden. From our beloved Artisan Market to twilight strolls and Holiday Teas, each moment is crafted to help you reconnect with those you love, and to find peace in the beauty of nature.  

 

Winter Solstice Pub Night 

Sat, Dec 20, 5:00PM – 8:30PM 

Tickets Required 

Lively Irish music, specialty drinks, crafting, dancing, and good cheer—celebrate the Winter Solstice at Wave Hill! Embrace the longest night of the year as Armor Hall transforms into a spirited pub with a little help from our friends at An Beal Bocht and MS Walker, perfect for a night out with friends and loved ones.   

 

Holiday Tea 

Sun, Dec 21, 11:00AM – 2:30PM 

Tue, Dec 23, 11:00AM – 2:30PM 

7-Day advanced booking required. 

Our annual Holiday Tea is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with your loved ones! Enjoy delicious tea sandwiches and delectable pastries with a specialty tea selection served in historic Wave Hill House festively decorated for the holidays. Provided by our exclusive partner Great Performances, with a custom menu inspired by their own organic farm, Katchkie Farm. 

  

Christmas Eve: Early Closing 

Wed, Dec 24, 10:00AM – 3:00PM 

Free with admission to the grounds. 

The gardens will be open from 10AM—3PM today. Wave Hill House, the Perkins Visitor Center and Glyndor Gallery will close at 2:30PM. Happy Holidays and best wishes! 

 

Christmas Day: Wave Hill is Closed! 

Thu, Dec 25, All Day 

Happy Holidays and best wishes! Wave Hill will be closed Thursday, December 25. We reopen on Friday, December 26. 

  

Help make a difference this holiday season by bringing non-perishable food items for donation when you come to the garden! Items will be collected Nov 11 – Dec 19 and distributed by our friends at the Riverdale Neighborhood House. 

 

HOURS STARTING MARCH 15: 10AM–4:30PM, Tuesday–Sunday  

Shuttle Service Free from Subway and Metro-North, Saturday–Sunday 

Information at 718.549.3200. On the web at wavehill.org.   

Armed Drug Dealers Sentenced to Decades in Federal Prison

 

Two Grand Bay men were sentenced to 20 years and 12 years in prison, respectively, for engaging in a drug-trafficking conspiracy and illegally possessing firearms in furtherance of drug crimes.

According to court documents, Demetrius Dwayne Powell, 33, and Diricka Tyrese McCants, 41, were arrested by narcotics agents on July 30, 2024. That day, agents went to a property in Grand Bay to arrest Powell, who had a pending arrest warrant for a robbery charge. When agents arrived, they encountered Powell and McCants coming out of a shed on the property. McCants, who was on federal supervised release for a prior felony drug-trafficking conviction, told the agents, “Once y’all go in there, I’m gone.”

Inside the shed, agents located and seized, among other things, nearly two pounds of 100% pure methamphetamine, smaller amounts of crack and powder cocaine, opened vacuum-sealed bags containing small amounts of marijuana, digital scales, drug packaging materials, and three loaded firearms. After their arrest, Powell and McCants exchanged recorded jail calls in which Powell encouraged McCants to take the rap for the drugs due to Powell’s violent criminal history, which includes convictions for a stabbing assault and felony domestic violence by strangulation. Powell also scolded McCants for not listening to him when he previously suggested that law enforcement had been surveilling the shed in Grand Bay.

Agents searched the contents of cell phones seized from Powell and McCants. The cell phones contained numerous text messages, photos, and videos about the defendants’ drug transactions and illegal possession of firearms between January and July 2024.

United States District Judge Terry F. Moorer sentenced Powell and McCants to serve 240 months and 144 months in prison, respectively. Upon their release from prison, Powell and McCants will each serve 10-year terms of supervised release, during which time they will be subject to drug testing and treatment. The court did not impose a fine, but Judge Moorer ordered the defendants to pay a total of $300 in special assessments and forfeited their firearms to the United States.

U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.

Homeland Security Investigations and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration substantially assisted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

Pharmacist Sentenced to Over Six Years in Prison for $6M Health Care Fraud Scheme

On October 21, a Michigan pharmacist was sentenced to 80 months in prison for defrauding health care benefit programs by billing for prescription medications that he never dispensed.

According to court documents, Isaiah Okoh, 55, of Sterling Heights, billed health care benefit programs for prescription medications that he did not actually dispense to patients at three pharmacies in Michigan. From 2019 through 2022, Okoh and his co-conspirator sent false claims to health care benefit programs for prescription drugs that were not ordered by a doctor and were not dispensed to the patient. Okoh and his co-conspirator used forged prescriptions from doctors to hide their scheme, when in fact the patient had never seen the listed doctor and the medication had never actually been prescribed. Okoh and his co-conspirator caused over $6 million of loss to Medicare, Medicaid and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.   

In April 2025, Okoh pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. At sentencing, Okoh was ordered to pay $3,889,760 in restitution and $3,230,147 in forfeiture, including his interest in approximately $1.2 million of fraudulent proceeds seized by law enforcement in this matter. 

Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge Reuben Coleman of the FBI Detroit Field Office; and Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.

FBI and HHS-OIG investigated the case.

Trial Attorneys Jeffrey A. Crapko and Ahmad Huda of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case. The forfeiture proceedings are being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenton Craig Welkener Jr. for the Eastern District of Michigan.

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.