Senator Jeff Klein, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Bronx Chamber of Commerce announce free job training & certifications for victims of domestic violence

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Klein & Diaz launch second annual Bronx H.I.R.E. Survivor Program

Senator Jeff Klein, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and the Bronx Chamber of Commerce today announced free job training and certifications for victims of domestic violence through the Bronx H.I.R.E. Survivor Program. The launch of the jobs program coincided with Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  

Senator Jeff Klein said: “All too often, victims of domestic violence lack the financial independence to leave harmful, and sometimes, life threatening relationships and start over for themselves and their children. The Bronx H.I.R.E. Survivor Program is the first of its kind in the community and plays a significant role in creating a bridge to employment for victims of abuse who have felt disconnected from the workforce. I’m proud to provide life-changing opportunities for women who have suffered great hardship and I look forward to working together to help victims of domestic violence achieve long-term stability, success and financial freedom.”

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. said: “As we grow our borough's economy we must make sure we create jobs for everyone, including our most vulnerable populations. The Bronx H.I.R.E. initiative provides necessary training and other resources to help victims of domestic violence find employment and take steps towards financial independence, thereby allowing them to make a clean, permanent break from their abusers. As we launch the second year of this program, I want to thank State Senator Jeff Klein and the Bronx Chamber of Commerce for their continuing commitment to the Bronx H.I.R.E. Survivor Program and the critical population it serves.”

With the inception of Universal Pre-Kindergarten and the need for two-income households in New York, the demand for qualified day care has never been greater. This year, the Bronx H.I.R.E. Survivor program will work to provide free certifications and job placement for 10 victims of domestic violence.

The five-month training course will be conducted by Childcare Support Services in conjunction with the Children’s Corner Learning Center. The certification program will include a documented 120 hours of training, formal observation of an early child care professional, an oral interview, and written feedback via parent opinion questionnaires.

Curriculum will include lessons on how children learn and grow, positive ways to support children’s social and emotional development, steps to advance children’s physical and intellectual competence and much more. The comprehensive training course will be held at the Hutchinson Metro Center from October 19 to February 22, 2016.

Michelle Dolgow Cristofaro, executive director of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce said: “Sen. Jeff Klein’s grant allows us to assist domestic violence survivors in their return to the workforce and help them to achieve a life of self-sufficiency.  Under H.I.R.E, we will implement a comprehensive program for these women by providing them with skills to become employable in the workforce, and financially independent.”

Cecilia Gaston, executive director of the Violence Intervention Program said: “The Bronx H.I.R.E. Survivor Program is one of the best examples of collaboration between government, nonprofits and the private sector.  We reach a survivor and help her a get a paid internship and help employers improve their policies and treatment of DV survivors.  It has the potential of changing the lives of everyone it touches.”

Margarita, a domestic violence victim and Bronx H.I.R.E. survivor, said: “The Bronx H.I.R.E. Survivor Program has opened so many new doors and given me the opportunity to create a stable, secure life for me and my family. With my new job, I look forward to going to work everyday and take great pride in knowing that I am able to provide for my little ones. Thank you Senator Klein, Borough President Diaz, the Bronx Chamber of Commerce and Teddy Nissan for your ongoing support and efforts to help victims of domestic violence across New York.”

MaryBeth Abrams, of Children's Corner Learning Center said: “Child Care Support Services is proud to hold a Child Development Associate (CDA) course at the Hutch Metro Center to help connect victims of domestic violence with good-paying jobs.  The CDA course offers training in education for children ages 0 to 5-years-old and will lead to a credential that is nationally recognized. This class is helping women who have not had the same opportunities and can further their career or jumpstart a career in the child care industry.”

The Bronx H.I.R.E. Survivors Program is a comprehensive job training program aimed connecting victims of abuse with full-time employment opportunities. The initiative is part of Senator Klein’s larger jobs program Bronx H.I.R.E. Since 2014, Senator Klein has secured $400,000 in state funding for the Bronx H.I.R.E. program.

For more information or to enroll in Bronx H.I.R.E, visit: http://www.bronxchamber.org

PHOTO (right to left): Michelle Dolgow Cristofaro, executive director of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce; Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.; Margarita, a domestic violence survivor; Senator Jeff Klein; Maria Martinez, Bronx non-residential program coordinator  at the Violence Intervention Program; Charito Cisneros, president of the Cosmetology and Beauty Chamber of Commerce; domestic violence service providers.

Just two of the services that were provided to those who were in attendance.

Amazon Gift Card - Email

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. & Healthfirst Host 7th Annual Sweetheart Luncheon

  Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and Healthfirst are hosting their 7th Annual Sweetheart Luncheon  on February 13, 2014. If you’re a couple that resides in the Bronx, have been married for 50+ years and would like to participate in the event, please contact Larcenia Walton, Director of Senior Services, at 718-590-6248 for further information.   

Bronx General Post Office

STATEMENT FROM BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ

RE: Potential Sale of the Bronx General Post Office

“Our priority is for this location to remain a Post Office. However, in light of the fact that the USPS has made an apparent decision to sell the Bronx GPO over our objections, good faith demands that they seek community input on the future of the building. They must solicit the input of community stakeholders before any sale is made. This building is too important to simply be auctioned to the highest bidder,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

 

 

Borough President Diaz Celebrates Inauguration & Bronx Centennial Kickoff

  Thursday evening Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. was joined by elected officials as well as business and community leaders for his inauguration ceremony and the official kick off to Bronx County’s year-round centennial celebration.

The ceremony featured the swearing-in of the Borough President and the entire Bronx City Council delegation, a historical nod to the first swearing in that took place when Bronx County was created in 1914.

“Today is a historic day. Not only is it the ceremonial start of my second term as Borough President of this great borough I love, but we are also marking a major milestone as we celebrate the first 100 years of Bronx County.  It is our time to shine and let the world know that the Bronx is rich in history, culture and diversity and this is what we are going to showcase in our yearlong celebration,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

“The centennial affords us an opportunity to look two ways.  We look back 100 years to the origin of the Bronx County and the progress we have made since then.  We look forward to using our past advance as a springboard to the future,” said Bronx Historian Lloyd Ultan.

During the ceremony, Borough President Diaz and the Bronx Chamber of Commerce also unveiled a commemorative plaque celebrating the centennial.

“The Bronx’s Centennial could not have come at a better time.  What has been accomplished in the area of economic development in just the last five years will insure that the next 100 years provide our residents and businesses with a community where residents can work in their borough, receive excellent education and health care, our businesses will thrive, while tourists and visitors can shop and visit our sports many diverse sports venues throughout,” said Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation President Marlene Cintron.

“This is an exciting time to be in The Bronx! The entire year will be dedicated to celebrating the last 100 years that have brought us to where we are today and we are anxious to share that with the world,” said Bronx Tourism Council Executive Director Olga Luz Tirado.

In addition, tonight the Empire State Building is lit in the colors of the Bronx flag to honor the 100th anniversary celebration of the creation of Bronx County.

Also, as part of the celebration, the office of Borough President Diaz partnered with the Legislative Gazette to produce a special edition celebrate The Bronx and its centennial. A PDF of that publication can be read at: http://on.nyc.gov/1adg7QY

Click on any photo to enlarge it.

Left - Mayor Bill de Blasio addresses the packed rotunda of the Bronx County building.

Right - BP Diaz waits to enter the room with new City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viveito next to him. 

 

Left - Rivals from the special election in the 86th A.D. New Assemblyman Victor Pichardo and Yudelka Tapia join together to celebrate.

Right - Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. finds a friend who is also wearing a cowboy hat.

 

Left - Mike's Deli from Aurthur Avenue is in the house with some great eats after the ceremony.

Right - The Cupcake House from Coop-City gave out assorted delicious cup cakes, and made a special pastry for the event. 

Paris Elections & Bronx Stereotypes

 

STATEMENT FROM BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ

RE: Paris Elections & Bronx Stereotypes

“The tired, ancient stereotypes about the Bronx continue to unfairly cloud the minds of people as far away as Paris, France. We in the Bronx have had enough.

“Crime has steadily dropped in the Bronx. Last year, the Bronx had the lowest rate of crime it has seen since the early 1960’s, and this year our borough is on pace to be even safer.

“And we’re not just leading the way in crime reduction. Tens of thousands of new housing units have been constructed here, new businesses are coming to our borough and the existing businesses are growing. We are leading the way in ‘green’ construction, with projects like Via Verde. We have major new projects such as the PGA caliber golf course at Ferry Point Park and the Kingsbridge National Ice Center, which will add to the list of reasons, like the new Yankee Stadium, and the New York Botanical Garden, as to why the Bronx remains an international destination. 

“Yet here we are, once again, forced to defend our hometown from the slanders and libels of politicians thousands of miles away, in Paris no less, who are using the Bronx to score cheap political points. Enough already.  While we may not be home to the Eiffel Tower, we are the home to 1.4 million hardworking people who are proud of their hometown and how far the Bronx has come.

“The elected officials of Paris would do well to remember that and focus on the issues Paris faces today, rather than the issues the Bronx faced decades ago,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

The original English-language article from Quartz Daily, titled “Surreal: French politicians are debating whether Paris now resembles the Bronx,” can be found at http://qz.com/156444. Up-to-date crime statistics for the Bronx can be found at http://on.nyc.gov/198ruvr.

 

 

Kingsbridge Armory KNIC Proposal at the Finish Line

  The City Council’s Zoning and Franchises Committee heard testimony from Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. today as to why the City Council should vote in favor of the Kingsbridge National Ice Center peoposal for the Kingsbridge Armory. Below is BP Diaz's testimony.

  Good morning, Chairperson Weprin and the members of the City Council’s Zoning and Franchises Subcommittee, I am Ruben Diaz Jr., Borough President of the Bronx. 

I am here today to offer my enthusiastic support for the Kingsbridge National Ice Center and the four ULURP applications, which when approved will facilitate construction of one of the most outstanding ice sports arenas in the world.  This project transforms an iconic yet vacant, landmark into a destination for thousands, and by so doing it will also revitalize an entire community and offer permanent living wage employment for Bronx residents. 

The key to the anticipated success of this project is that it represents the culmination of a comprehensive participatory process that included all those who have an interest in the future of the Kingsbridge Armory.  These parties include representatives of the surrounding community, the borough’s elected officials, the Mayor’s Office and the city’s Economic Development Corporation, as well as those associated with the Kingsbridge National Ice Center’s development team.   

I am pleased to highlight some supporting figures that substantiate my endorsement, such as an approximate $300 million dollar investment to restore and preserve an historic Bronx landmark, which entails the reconstruction of the entire drill hall floor;

The project will also pay its employees a living wage of $11.75 per hour without benefits, $10.00 per hour with benefits; which represents a great victory for this site, given where we started from. The redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory will create 170 full time equivalent permanent positions at the Armory, as well as 885 construction related jobs on site. In addition, the project is expected to create an additional 2,700 off-site jobs as a consequence of its development.

KNIC will generate 580,000 annual visits to the Armory, which in turn will generate new economic activity approximating $42 million annually.

My enthusiasm for this proposal and what it will offer the Bronx and our city is only surpassed by my support for the Community Benefits Agreement that has been achieved.  This agreement is historic, as it sets to paper benefits I believe establish a gold standard for all future projects that rely on the disposition and use of public sector assets.  Key components of this agreement include assurances that 51 percent of those working at the Armory will be Bronx residents, and that employers shall award 25 percent of the funds spent on employees performing construction, to Minority and Women/Owned Bronx businesses.

Beyond these stipulations, the developer has also pledged to provide an initial monetary contribution of $8 million, to be used towards developing and building out the 50,000 square feet of community facility space for an annual rent of $1.

In addition, $1 million dollars of ice time will be provided annually to local schools and community organizations. KNIC will also provide $250,000 for capital improvements of properties and local businesses,

I am also especially proud to note that this entire project will be environmentally sound, as a LEED Silver designation is being sought.

My administration is very proud of what the entire proposal represents.  It is a project that broadens the profile of the Bronx as a place where new ideas can become reality, where new approaches can bring about better results. 

So many people have worked so hard to bring this project to fruition. From elected officials, to the community board, to local organizations, to our non-profits, to the developer and everyone in between—what we are discussing today is the culmination of years, if not decades, of advocacy and effort to revitalize this magnificent structure. A vote in opposition to this project would be reprehensible.

In closing, I recommend approval of these applications and by so doing endorse the redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory by the Kingsbridge National Ice Center.

  

Borough's Official Hanukkah Celebration

  Tuesday Dec. 2rd. Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. along with Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer, Rabbi Israel Greenberg, Rabbi Michael S, Miller, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda, Councilman Elect Andrew Cohen, and many others celebrated the official Bronx Chanukah Menorah lighting. 

  Dr. Ruth (as she is known) said that she was 85 years old, and that she brought her daughter who still lives in the Bronx with her for this Chanukah Menorah lighting. Students from the Kinnert Day School sang the traditional national anthem, and then Hatikvah the national anthem of Israel. After a few short speeches Rabbi Greenberg, the elected officials, and Dr Ruth went over to light the Bronx Menorah which became a Bronx tradition under BP Diaz after he took office in 2009. 

 

Left - Dr Ruth at age 85 speaks next to the podium so everyone would be able to see her. 

Right -  Students from the Kinnert Day School perform.

 

Left - Elected official line the first row, with several judges sitting in the second row.

Right - Rabbi Greenberg tells the story of Chanukah.

Left - BP Diaz lights one of the Chanukah candles.

Right - Councilman Elect Cohen lights another Chanukah candle.

 

Left - Parkchester Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda lights a Chanukah candle.

Right - After all the candles are lit, BP Diaz dances with Dr. Ruth as Rabbi Greenberg sings a Chanukah song.

City Planning Hearing - Testimony of Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. Re - Armory Proposal

 

Testimony of Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

at the City Planning Commission RE: Kingsbridge Armory

October 9, 2013

Good day, Chairperson Burden and your fellow commissioners.  I am here today to offer my enthusiastic support for the Kingsbridge Armory National Ice Center and the four ULURP applications, which when approved will facilitate construction of one of the most outstanding ice arenas in the world.  This project will transform an iconic landmark into a destination for thousands, all while revitalizing an entire community and offering permanent, “living wage” jobs for Bronx residents. 

This project represents the culmination of a comprehensive participatory process that included all those who have an interest in the future of the Kingsbridge Armory.  These parties include representatives of the surrounding community, the borough’s elected officials, the Mayor’s Office and the city’s Economic Development Corporation, as well as those associated with the Kingsbridge National Ice Center’s development team.   

There are numerous statistics and figures that can back up my strong support. This project will bring $300 million in  investment to restore and preserve this historic Bronx landmark, including the reconstruction of the entire drill hall floor.

170 full-time positions will be created at the Kingsbridge Armory. And the jobs created at this project will pay a living wage. In addition, this project will create 885 construction related jobs on site, plus a total of 2,700 off-site jobs as a consequence of its development;

At least 580,000 annual visits to the Kingsbridge Armory are anticipated, which will generate new economic activity approximating $42 million annually.

My enthusiasm for this proposal and what it will offer the Bronx and our city is only surpassed by my support for the Community Benefit Agreement that has been achieved.  This agreement is historic, as it sets to paper benefits I believe establish a gold standard for all future projects that rely on the disposition and use of public sector assets. 

Key components of this agreement include that 51 percent of those working at the Armory will be Bronx residents, and that employers shall award 25 percent of the funds spent on employees performing construction, to minority and women/owned Bronx businesses.

Beyond these stipulations, the developer has also pledged to provide an initial monetary contribution of $8 million towards developing and building out the 50,000 square feet of community facility space, for an annual rent of $1. In addition, the developer will provide $1 million in annual ice time for local schools and community organizations, as well as $250,000 for capital improvements to neighboring properties and local businesses. The developer has also entered into a historic profit-sharing agreement with the local community, and will contribute one percent of profit realized up to $25 million, or two percent of profit realized for more than $25 million, to these local organizations.

I am also especially proud to note that this entire project will be environmentally sound, as a LEED Silver designation is being sought.

My administration is very proud of what the entire proposal represents.  It is a project that broadens the profile of the Bronx as a place where new ideas can become reality, where new approaches can bring about better results.  I therefore recommend approval of these applications and by so doing continue to endorse the development of the Kingsbridge Armory by the Kingsbridge National Ice Center.          

 

 

BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ ISSUES KINGSBRIDGE ARMORY ULURP

  As expected Bronx borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. has made his recommendation positive, of the Kingsbridge National Ice Center proposal for the Kingsbridge Armory. Diaz came out early in support of the KNIC proposal, and all that had to be done was work out a community benefits agreement that was acceptable by all sides. 

 

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. today issued his office’s recommendations concerning the future of the Kingsbridge Armory. The recommendations come as part of the borough president’s charter mandated responsibilities in the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP).

In his recommendations, Borough President Diaz reiterated his support for the project, noting that the Kingsbridge National Ice Center proposal will completely transform the unused structure into a hub of commercial and civic activity. The recommendations come on the heels of a public hearing on the project, which took place on Friday, September 20, and was hosted by Borough President Diaz as part of the ULURP process.

“The Kingsbridge National Ice Center is clearly the right choice for the Bronx. At every opportunity this proposal has been met with near unanimous support, and not one individual or group spoke against the project at my office’s public hearing. Support for the KNIC proposal is strong not just in the Northwest Bronx but in every corner of our borough, and I look forward to this project’s swift approval,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

In April, Kingsbridge National Ice Center Partners (KNIC) and the Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Alliance (KARA) signed a historic community benefits agreement (CBA) to redevelop the Kingsbridge Armory into a facility committed to serving Bronx residents. That CBA represents a multi-million dollar benefit package for the local community.  

For the first time in the history of New York City, a developer has agreed to wall-to-wall living wage jobs for local workers, more than 50,000 square feet of community space, targeted local hiring, opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses, free ice time for local schools, local procurement, sustainable green development and operation, and a business incubator to facilitate wealth creation for local residents. KNIC also plans to create a foundation to establish free after-school ice sports and academic tutoring programs for disadvantaged youth. The program will be modeled after the Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation in Philadelphia, which has seen considerable academic and athletic success with those students who participate.

The Community Benefits Agreement has been signed by dozens of neighborhood organizations and community partners representing thousands of residents in the Northwest Bronx that support the project.

Borough President Diaz’s complete ULURP recommendations can be at the following link: http://on.nyc.gov/18njPny.

The Kingsbridge National Ice Center project was announced as the City’s official choice for the Kingsbridge Armory at a press conference in April 2013, which was attended by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, Borough President Diaz, City Council Member Fernando Cabrera, KNIC Partners LLC Founder Kevin Parker, New York Rangers hockey legend Mark Messier, Olympic Figure Skating Gold Medalist Sarah Hughes, then New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky and then Community Board #7 Chairman Paul Foster.

The original press release announcing the project can be read here: http://on.nyc.gov/ZGheD1. Full video of that event can be watched here: http://on.nyc.gov/18pwSTg.

LEADING ELECTED OFFICIALS ENDORSE BILL DE BLASIO

 

A group of six elected officials from across the city today announced their support for Bill de Blasio, the Democratic nominee for Mayor, and urged all New Yorkers to join them in their support in the November general election.

 

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Congress members Nydia Velazquez and Hakeem Jeffries, State Senator Eric Adams, Democratic nominee for Brooklyn Borough President; and State Senators Adriano Espaillat and Jose Peralta each announced their endorsement of Bill de Blasio for mayor today. These officials represent four borough’s of the city, and each has an ethnically and economically diverse constituency. The endorsement follows a meeting Bill de Blasio had with the officials on Sunday night, during which they discussed de Blasio’s vision for the future of the city and the November general election. “Bill de Blasio’s plan to fight inequality has resonated across all five boroughs, but especially in the Bronx. Bill de Blasio understands the need for a new day in our city, and will continue to fight for a living wage, for safer streets, for stronger schools and for the expansion of the middle class. As our next mayor Bill de Blasio will be a fighter for the people of this city, and I urge all Democrats, and in fact all New Yorkers, to join us in support of his candidacy for mayor,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

“After 20 years of Republican rule, the hard working people of this City are in crisis. The one percenters of New York are wealthier than ever, while working families and the most vulnerable continue to suffer income inequality and are being priced out of the City they love. Bill de Blasio represents a new vision for New Yorkers of all background. His vision to create an economic path that will create good paying jobs, affordable housing and an education system that integrates parents, children and teachers in the decision making process is key. His vision to provide ladders of opportunities for families to climb into the middle class is what this city needs today. I stand with Bill, whose message of a more inclusive New York resonates across the city. We must work together to get him elected,” said Rep. Nydia Velazquez of Brooklyn and Manhattan.

 

BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ AND WELLCARE OF NEW YORK KICKED OFF BRONX SENIOR MONTH

  This morning Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., WellCare of New York and Bronx senior citizens kicked off Bronx Senior Month, celebrating the contributions of seniors from across the Bronx.

The itinerary of activities for senior citizens during the month of September will include a Grandparents Resource Fair and will finalize with an award ceremony honoring seniors who are making a difference in their community.

“Our senior citizens are the heart of our community and I am proud to partner with WellCare Health Plans, Inc. to honor them during the month of September.  Bronx Senior Month is a wonderful opportunity to provide entertainment to our seniors as well as information on their benefits and health needs. Here in the Bronx we have a rich history  thanks to our elders who continue to make invaluable contributions to our community.   Although September is especially dedicated to  our seniors we  should  always remember to help and support  them for a job well done throughout the year,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Immediately after the press conference, seniors were treated to a free screening at the Concourse Plaza Theater  of “The Butler,” a historical film starring Academy Award winning actor Forest Whitaker.

Bronx Senior Month Activities

• September 19, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Grandparents Resource Fair, light refreshments provided by Golden Crust

Sotomayor Community Center, 1000 Rosedale Ave, Bronx, N.Y.

• September 26 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Awards Ceremony and continental Breakfast

WellCare Bronx Retail Sales Office, 1043 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, N.Y.

 

Thompson visits Bronx Senior Center

   During what was his 5 borough tour mayoral candidate Bill Thompson stopped a the Rain Senior Center located at 3540 Bivona Street in the Baychester section of the Bronx. While Thompson was at the Senior center Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. arrived to say hello, and speak about his good friend and candidate that he has endorsed for mayor this year. 

  Diaz told the seniors that he always hears of cuts to senior centers, but that his office provides resources to every senior center in the Bronx. Diaz then told the crowd about why he choose to endorse Bill Thompson for mayor and after Thompson thank Diaz the two went around the room talking with the seniors. I asked several of the seniors if they had voted in the last mayors race in 2009, and the answer was yes and for Thompson. Below are a few photos of the visit by Bill Thompson and BP Diaz.

Left - BP Diaz tells the seniors in the room why he choose to endorse Bill Thompson for mayor.
Right - Thompson thanks his good friend Ruben Diaz Jr. for his kind words, and gives the seniors a reason why they should vote for him for mayor.

Left - Thompson and Diaz work different sides of the room as their backs are opposite each other.

Right - Thompson and Diaz go over how it went, and other items as Thompson's wife Elsie (far right) listens.

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BP DIAZ COMMENTS ON NEW UNEMPLOYMENT STATS: 'WHAT WE ARE DOING IS WORKING'

  

   The latest New York State Department of Labor statistics indicate that unemployment has dropped in Bronx County, from 11.6% in March to 10.5% in April. Given these new numbers, the Bronx is no longer the county with the highest unemployment rate in New York State, having surpassed both Hamilton County (11.4%) and Lewis County (10.9%).

“What we are doing is, indeed, working,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “This drop in unemployment is not simply a result of people coming off the unemployment rolls, but also of more people finding jobs and getting to work. During my first four years in office we have worked aggressively to bring new jobs to the Bronx, all while strengthening the businesses that are already here.”

Borough President Diaz added, “My office will continue its efforts to bring new development to every corner of the Bronx. We still have work to do, but today’s number show us that our efforts in job creation are bearing fruit.”

New York State Department of Labor statistics indicate that 485.6 thousand Bronx residents were employed in April 2013, up from 481.7 thousand in March 2013.

The full statistics can be found at http://labor.ny.gov/stats/pressreleases/prlaus.shtm.

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BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ HOLDS FIRST EVER BRONX HEALTH & WELLNESS SUMMIT

BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ HOLDS FIRST EVER BRONX HEALTH & WELLNESS SUMMIT

On Saturday, April 6, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., along with influential health experts, hosted the first ever Bronx Health & Wellness Summit at the Fordham University Rose Hill Campus.

More than five hundred people attended the summit, which featured 30 breakout sessions and a free healthy breakfast and lunch. CBS medical reporter Max Gomez was the keynote speaker. The Health Summit’s grand finale was a Q&A session with  the Borough President, as well as a raffle in which the winning prize was a  one-on-one lunch with Borough President Diaz.

BRONX BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ PAYS TRIBUTE TO 100 YEARS OLD BRONXITES

 

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. will host the borough’s third centenarian celebration to pay tribute to Bronxites who are or will turn 100 years old in 2013.

This Bronx Week event salutes seniors from throughout the borough in recognition of their remarkable longevity as upstanding members of the community.  If you have any Centenarians that would like to attend this event please call Ms. Larcenia Walton, Director of Senior Services at 718-590-6248 to inquire.  The event will be held on May 9^th at 11am, The Villa Barone Manor, you have to rsvp for this event.  Invitation is for the centenarian and one guest, any additional guest there will be a cover charge of $30 per person. 

 

 Shop Weekly Grocery Specials at Peapod.com! Plus, new customers can save $15 off with the code PPGAN15 thru 4.30.13. See site for details.

Borough President Diaz Marches at National Puerto Rican Day Parade

   

    On Sunday June 10, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. joined  thousands of others to celebrate Puerto Rican pride at the National Puerto Rican Day Parade.

    Borough President Diaz  paraded up 5^th Avenue to the tune of  “Bomba y Plena,” thanks to the musical group Los Pleneros de la Casita de Chema (El Rincón Criollo), who marched with Borough President Diaz and dozens of staffers and supporters.

 

    You can see a brief video of BP Diaz marching here.

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State Senator Rivera & Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. Launch Second Year of Bronx CAN Health Initiative

  

  State Senator Gustavo Rivera along with Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Montefiore Medical Center and other community health partners launched the second year of the Bronx CAN Health Initiative on June 2nd at St. James Park. Dozens of Bronxites participated in Saturday's health fair, taking advantage of blood pressure screenings, a free yoga class and the advice of health care professionals.

"As an elected official that represents part of the Bronx, I was extremely concerned to learn that our borough the unhealthiest in the state and that there are higher rates of childhood obesity, diabetes and other preventable diseases in the 33rd Senate District,"  said Senator Gustavo Rivera.  "That is why last year when we launched the Bronx CAN Health Initiative, I pledged to make myself an example, losing over 27 lbs. since last June. This year I have pledged to continue to lose between 10-15 lbs. adhering to long-term goals that will ultimately have an enormous impact on my overall health. I encourage all Bronxites who haven't already joined me, to join me in taking the  Bronx CAN Health Challenge this year so that together we can make the Bronx healthier."

"I am delighted that the Bronx CAN Health Initiative is beginning its second year of education, inspiration and motivation for healthier lifestyles.  This year we will again launch the CAN Health Challenge, led by Senator Rivera, encouraging Bronxites to set some strategic wellness goals for the summer months.  We are also putting the finishing touches on a CAN Retail Challenge that is aimed at educating our Bronx retailers on the minor but significant adjustments they can make to provide healthier food options to their consumers," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.  

"I am thrilled to join Senator Rivera and Borough President Diaz in the launch of the Bronx CAN Health Initiative" said Steven M. Safyer, MD, President & CEO of Montefiore Medical Center. "Our community leaders set tremendous examples for us, as does the partnership behind this important initiative. Montefiore is committed to furthering these efforts to promote physical exercise and healthier eating-choices crucial to reducing the rates of obesity and diabetes and to advancing the health of our borough.

"The Committee of interns and Residents is pleased to be partnering with the Bronx CAN Initiative for the second year in a row, " said Dr. Yusef Williams, Family Medicine Resident at Bronx Lebanon Hospital.  "As physicians practicing in the Bronx, we understand the importance of community projects like the Bronx CAN Initiative to empower Bronxites to make healthier choices.  We applaud Senator Rivera's and the Borough President's commitment to making the Bronx a healthier borough and we look forward to supporting the initiative."

The Bronx CAN Health Initiative was launched in response to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's study that showed the Bronx as the unhealthiest county in the state of New York. This initiative will tackle issues of obesity, nutrition, exercise and access to preventative health in the Bronx. The month of June and the June 2nd launch on the initiative will be focused on physical fitness and exercise.

Upcoming Bronx CAN events:

• Saturday, July 7, 2012 - 1:30PM-3:30PM - Health Fair focused on Nutrition
• Saturday, August 4, 2012 - 1:30PM - 3:30PM - Health Fair focused on Preventative Health & Health Screenings

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