Senator Klein, Assemblyman Sepulveda & Councilwoman Palma host Herbalife Round Table in area with highest concentration of ‘Nutrition Clubs’

Bronx victim who lost $50K steps forward to expose Herbalife scam

State Senator Jeff Klein, Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda, Councilwoman Annabel Palma, and Community Board #9 Chairman Rogier van Vlissingen hosted an Herbalife round table on Wednesday warning residents of the dangers of the get-rich-quick scheme.

In The Bronx, Herbalife Nutrition Clubs are clustered in predominantly Hispanic communities, where distributors encourage friends, family and neighbors to sign-up for a dream-like business opportunity. Ultimately, victims of the scam pump thousands of dollars into health supplements that they cannot sell and are then encouraged to recruit more members in order to turn a profit.

Six Herbalife Nutrition clubs do business in Community Board #9, the largest concentration of clubs in any board in The Bronx. In total 26 Nutrition Clubs operate in the borough and 60 exist across the city.

“Herbalife’s potions and powders do not make its recruits into millionaires as promised. Instead Herbalife’s pyramid scheme robs victims of their savings by preying on their entrepreneurial hopes and dreams. I’ve met and heard from victims who have lost as much as $100,000 to this scam, while Herbalife International turns a blind eye to the false claims being made inside its franchises. These products are sold through lies — telling people that these supplements contain miracle cures for cancer, diabetes and rare diseases, all while promising distributors that they will get rich. This is wrong and my legislation will hold companies that do direct-marketing, like Herbalife International, accountable for what is going on inside its franchises,” said Senator Klein.

“Targeting low-income communities with pyramid schemes, and hoodwinking people into investing in magic potions, is a cruel but old-as-the hills ploy. Make no mistake about it. The people behind the Herbalife scam have targeted Bronx communities. We must expose their fraudulent practices, educate the public, and put an end to this scourge,” said Assemblyman Sepulveda.

“It is my hope that today's roundtable discussion will inform Bronxites — and ultimately help them avoid — the unscrupulous business practices of pyramid schemes that seek to prey on the financially insecure with promises of generating income predicated on unsustainable business models. Our communities deserve better than to be used as a tool for exploitation,” said Councilmember Palma.

“This proposal by Senator Jeff Klein and Public Advocate Letitia James is a breath of fresh air, coming on top of an apparent new sense of urgency at the FTC, as shown in the recent Vemma case. We should all remember that Madoff stole from the wealthy, but pyramid schemes steal from those who don’t have the money to start with, and it needs to change. The deceptive health claims are par for the course of these scams,” said Community Board #9 Chairman van Vlissingen.

Bronx residents Francisco Payano, who lost $50,000 to Herbalife, and Maria David, who lost $15,000 to the scam, spoke out about their experiences.

Payano and his ex-wife were approached by a woman on the street who spoke to them about the wonders of Herbalife and the riches that could come out of selling the supplements. They soon signed up and began purchasing the product to distribute from their home, until Payano realized that the business was a scam.

“We couldn’t afford a storefront to open a nutrition club and she decided to do it in our house. I tried to convinced her that this business was a pyramid scheme. She was so into it and I was very worried and tired since I would have people ringing my doorbell at 5 a.m. to get shakes. This was very much affecting the life of my children and my marriage. One day I exploded and told her to choose between Herbalife and me and she, blinded by their lies, chose them. I filed for divorced and she took me to court to accuse me of being a bad father and said all types of lies. I explained to the judge that my children were living in hell with her Herbalife obsession. Herbalife ruined my family,” Payano said.

David and her three co-workers were attracted to Herbalife’s weight loss products. A Nutrition Club opened next to David’s job and she and her friends began going each morning for shakes and tea. Soon, the manager convinced the women to chip in and open their own Nutrition Club.

“We decided to open a small nutrition club and figured between all four of us we could manage and cover expenses. We tried for almost two years. It was very hard to recruit members, and according to our recruiter that’s where the big bucks were. One day I was very frustrated because we had to keep buying so much product. I decided to count how many servings I could get out of the protein powder. I discovered that you can only make $15 out of it and it cost $34 to buy. We all decided that it was time to stop doing business with Herbalife,” David said.

In October, Senator Klein and New York City Public Advocate Letitia James released, “The American Scheme: Herbalife’s Pyramid ‘Shake’down.’ Undercover investigators caught distributors saying that sellers could make $20,000 a month, that sellers should recruit at least five people, and that the products could cure rare diseases.

Herbalife International is structured so that its products can only be purchased from a distributor. These distributors are not Herbalife employees and peddle products at their own prices to family, friends and neighbors.

Distributors receive discounted rates on nutrition shakes, supplements and elixirs if they buy the product in bulk. Though prospective recruits are told an Herbalife start-up kit costs $60 to $100, they often spend much more after being encouraged by a recruiter to stock up on product to climb the ladder. They are persuaded to recruit others, who they will profit from when they buy products. On average, a new member spends $1,800, though some make an initial investment as high as $10,000.

Senator Klein has introduced legislation in the State Senate to increase oversight, require full financial disclosure by direct-marketing companies, like Herbalife, and will also strengthen protections for prospective sellers. Key provisions include:

• Mandates that health product franchisors in the state file an annual financial disclosure statement written in plain English and Spanish for the Attorney General to review before submitting to prospective franchisees. The statement includes the number of franchisees in the state, average income claimed by franchisees, percentage of franchisees that fall within various amount parameters as determined by the Attorney General, and the reported turnover rate of franchisees.  

 

• Requires that prospective franchisees receive their offering prospectus in the primary language of the prospective franchisees.

• Requires that any pamphlets, circular, form letter, advertisement or other sales literature of advertising communication intended for prospective health product franchises be approved by the Attorney General.

• Calls for health product franchisor engage in supervision of its franchisees to ensure compliance with the law to prevent fraudulent and deceptive acts by the franchisees.        

Above - Victims Francisco Payano (left) and Maria David (center) sit with a translator to answer questions from Senator Klein and later reporters.

Below - Community Board 9 Chairman Rogier van Vlissingen with CB 0 District Manager William Rivera.

Above - Part of the undercover video shown to prove the misleading facts here about Herbalife.

Below - a photo of the elected official, community Board 9 Chairman and District Manager, and Herbalife victims Francisco Payano and Maria David.

Senator Klein, Assemblyman Blake host free IT workforce development workshop in latest Bronx H.I.R.E. On-the-Go training

State Senator Jeff Klein and the Bronx Chamber of Commerce, joined by Assemblyman Michael Blake hosted the latest Bronx H.I.R.E On-the-Go session at the SUNY Bronx Educational Opportunity Center on Monday.

Bronx H.I.R.E. On-the-Go is a mobile employment program connecting unemployed or underemployed Bronxites to good-paying jobs. On this stop in the 79th Assembly District in Claremont, participants signed up for the Bronx H.I.R.E program and learned about free certification opportunities for IT technician courses, personal training courses and security licenses. These certifications are often expensive obstacles faced by unemployed residents who want to get back into the workforce. Job seekers also built valuable resume writing and interview skills at the workshop.

“The technology industry in New York has seen a boom in recent years, and this growth is only expected to continue. I am proud that, in order to ensure that our communities stay competitive in this, and other growing fields, Bronx H.I.R.E. On-the-Go is bringing opportunity to all areas of The Bronx. By partnering with Assemblyman Blake and The Bronx Chamber of Commerce, through these workshops we can bring first-rate training, resume and interview skills, and educational opportunities to those communities most in need,” said Senator Jeff Klein.

"One of our top priorities is to ensure economic opportunity for all. It is imperative that we help Bronxites get back on their feet, and to make sure that they stay standing with stable and sustainable job opportunities. Our partnership with Bronx H.I.R.E. and the introduction of their new "On-The-Go" initiative will aid in our efforts to address the issue of unemployment by giving Bronx residents the tools that will better prepare them to join the workforce. Bronx residents will learn how to get free IT Certifications as well as certifications in personal training and security.  Bronx H.I.R.E.'s one-on-one personalized  guidance on securing jobs and interviews with bronx employers continues our effort of turning the South Bronx into the urban metropolis of the world," said Assemblyman Blake.

Bronx H.I.R.E. On-the-Go has traveled to Pelham Parkway, Riverdale, Soundview and Hunts Point.

SENATOR KLEIN, COUNCILMAN TORRES AND THE BODEGA ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCE “K.O. K2” CAMPAIGN; MORE THAN 1,700 BRONX BODEGAS JOIN PLEDGE NOT TO SELL SYNTHETIC MARIJUANA

With over 700 visits to Bronx emergency rooms since May, thousands of bodegas band together with Klein & Torres to protect the health and safety of New Yorkers

Bodega Association of the USA endorses Klein’s legislation to stop sale of K2 in New York State

BRONX, NY - State Senator Jeff Klein, City Councilman Ritchie Torres, President of the Bodega Association of the United States (ASOBEU) Ramon Murphy, Northeast Regional Director of the National Action Network Minister Kirsten John Foy, and Bronx bodega owners today launched the “K.O. K2” campaign and announced that more than 1,700 bodegas have joined the pledge not to sell synthetic marijuana.

Each store participating in the campaign will prominently display a sign in their window indicating that the shop does not sell synthetic marijuana in an effort to  “K.O. K2.”

Senator Klein said: “The ‘K.O. K2’ campaign is the first coordinated effort by elected officials and store owners to kick K2 out of local shops and remove this poison from our streets. More than 1,700 bodega owners have joined the pledge not to sell synthetic marijuana – marking a major step forward in the fight against synthetic drugs. I’m proud to partner with Councilman Ritchie Torres and the ASOBEU to launch this important campaign and will continue to push for the passage of my comprehensive K2 legislation in the state Senate.”

Councilman Ritchie Torres said: “We must take every measure to stop the sale and consumption of K2, a deadly drug that has already taken a tremendous toll on The Bronx. Unfortunately, it is going to take more than legislation to keep this poison out of our communities. I am proud to stand with Senator Jeff Klein and the ASOBEU to announce a coordinated campaign to get K2 out of our stores and off of our streets.”

Ramon Murphy, President of the ASOBEU, said: “A bodega is a family run business that serves the community and is part of the community.  Dangerous drugs and illicit substances like K2 have no place in our stores and I am proud to announce the ASOBEU’s pledge not to sell K2 in New York State. It’s the ASOBEU’s promise that our customers and the entire community feel safe in our stores. I applaud Senator Klein’s efforts to outlaw K2 and fully support his legislation currently before the State Senate.”

The ASOBEU is comprised of 5,000 members with 35 percent or 1,750 stores located in The Bronx. The “K.O. K2” campaign encompasses all Bronx bodegas but also includes a coordinated, grassroots effort by community groups and local advocates to sign up grocery stores and smoke shops throughout the borough that are not strictly defined as “bodegas.”

The photos below are of State Senator Jeff Klein explaining why combating K2 is so very important, Councilman Ritchie Torres explaining what the city council is doing to combat the use of K2, and Ramon Murphy the President of the ASOBEU, and why it is so important that his 5,000 members do not sell K2, and other bodega owners who do not belong to his association. Also in the photos is Community Board 7 Chairperson Adaline Walker-Santiago.

Above - Senator Klein, Councilman Torres, CB 7 Chair Walker-Santiago, and ASEBOU President Murphy pose for photo in front of the sign informing customers that K2 is not sold at this bodega.

Below - A blow up of the K2 is not sold here poster.

SENATOR KLEIN, ASSEMBLYMAN SEPÚLVEDA, COUNCIL MEMBER PALMA & BRONX RESIDENTS RALLY AGAINST PROPOSED ‘HOT SHEET MOTEL’

  Klein, Sepúlveda, Palma & Castle Hill Neighborhood Betterment Association call on NYC Department of Buildings to issue stop work order on planned Bronx motel in violation of state & federal law

Klein pushes for passage of legislation requiring community review before construction of any new hotel/motel in The Bronx

                                  

NEW YORK, NY - State Senator Jeff Klein, Assemblyman Luis Sepúlveda, Council Member Annabel Palma, the Castle Hill Neighborhood Betterment Association (CNBA), and nearly 50 community leaders and residents, today rallied in front of the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) to call on the oversight agency to issue a stop work order on a proposed 62-room ‘hot sheet motel’ at 2338 Bruckner Blvd in The Bronx. The renewed call comes on the heels of the DOB’s recent approval of plans for the proposed project without the submission of any new designs or renderings by the developer.

For more than a year, Senator Klein and the Castle Hill Neighborhood Betterment Association have been working to address the construction of this motel in an area where there are no local businesses or restaurants that call for overnight accommodations, thus serving as a potential breeding ground for illicit or criminal activity.

“Seedy motels offering day rates in an area with no need for local accommodations has the potential to draw illegal activity that could hurt an otherwise strong community. The DOB has green-lit a project without proper review of the violations it presents, and continues to ignore the voice of the Castle Hill community. I stand together with local residents when I say that this type of establishment has no place in our neighborhood. Moving forward, any planned hotel or motel in The Bronx should to be subject to community review as a matter of law,” said Senator Klein.

"I stand with the residents of Castle Hill and my colleagues in government to support developments that are safe, well-planned and respect the rights and concerns of the residents they may affect. The motel currently under construction on Bruckner Boulevard does none of that.  Motels in these areas attract the wrong kinds of people who will have a detrimental impact on the Castle Hill community and the borough of The Bronx. I support the efforts of the CNBA and hope that we can further work with DOB to come to a resolution on this matter,” said Assemblyman Sepúlveda.

“It has been over a year of organizing and lobbying against the development of the ‘Days Inn Motel’ on the Bruckner, and my colleagues Senator Klein, Assemblyman Sepúlveda, and I still have serious concerns about the hotel coming to our community. Building a hotel in a questionable location without the appropriate infrastructure and population density to accommodate it, will only attract undesirable and illegal activity. Today, we stand together to demand that the Department of Buildings properly respond to the issues raised by the residents of Castle Hill. With no equivocations, our communities and residents deserve better,” said Council Member Palma.

In 2014, the DOB first issued a stop work order on the construction of the “Days Inn Motel” after plans submitted by the developer were called into question and found to be in violation of the zoning resolution, code and Multiple Dwelling Law.

In January 2015, the stop work order was lifted by the DOB without any substantial evidence that the project had come into compliance and met the applicable requirements. The lack of oversight and blatant negligence exhibited by the DOB in recent months is counterintuitive to the agency's role in ensuring compliant, responsible development in New York City.

“It is incredible that the DOB Commissioner fails to heed the united voice of our community, or even that of our elected officials including State Senator Jeff Klein, Assemblyman Luis Sepúlveda, Council Member Annabel Palma as well as William Rivera, the District Manager of CB9,” stated Fernando Penate, Castle Hill Neighborhood Betterment Association Board Chair.

“The CNBA is protesting Commissioner Chandler’s lack of respect for the Castle Hill community, if not The Bronx. Commissioner Chandler has ignored our many requests for a response to our objections and concerns, which have been submitted to him many times.  He needs to stop his disrespect and reply to us ASAP as we are the voting constituents of his boss, the Mayor,” stated Nancy Rodriguez, Castle Hill Neighborhood Betterment Association board member.

At the rally, Senator Klein also called for the passage of legislation he authored and introduced earlier this year that mandates a community review process before a motel or hotel can be constructed in The Bronx. The legislation would require that project sponsors notify the New York City Planning Commission and the local community board of any proposed hotel/motel in Bronx County, and mandate that no more than 45 to 90 days after the notice is filed, the Planning Commission hold a public forum to garner feedback from the community. After due consideration of local residents’ concerns, the New York City Planning Commission would then issue a determination approving or denying authorization of the project.

With construction on the motel well underway, Senator Klein, Assemblyman Luis Sepúlveda, Council Member Palma and the Castle Hill Neighborhood Betterment Association are calling for an immediate stop work order to be issued by the DOB until a full audit of the “Days Inn Motel” is completed.

SENATOR KLEIN, ASSEMBLYMAN DINOWITZ & COUNCIL MEMBER COHEN HOST SCRIE/DRIE & EPIC TOWN HALL

Senator Jeff Klein, joined by Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, and Council Member Andrew Cohen, held a Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE), Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) and Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) town hall at Riverdale Neighborhood House on Monday.

“Helping to make life more affordable for Bronx seniors and individuals with disabilities ensures that all New Yorkers are able to lead long, healthy, happy lives. That’s why I led the fight in Albany to raise the income cap to $50,000 for SCRIE/DRIE, and up to $100,000 for the EPIC program. With these important increases, nearly 50,000 additional New Yorkers are eligible to receive discounts and can get the coverage they need. I’m proud to host this SCRIE/DRIE and EPIC town hall and I look forward to many more productive, informative sessions coming up next month where we can spread the word to Bronxites about these vital programs,” said Senator Jeff Klein.

At the town hall, seniors and individuals with disabilities were able to check their eligibility and sign up for the SCRIE/DRIE and EPIC programs. Both the New York City Department of Health and the New York City Department of Finance were on-hand to answer questions, provide information and enroll participants in the programs on-the-spot.

“My office has helped countless people fill out SCRIE forms over the years to help them receive a rent freeze. Despite that, there are still many people who are eligible for SCRIE/DRIE but who have not applied. Last year we raised the maximum allowable income available for the SCRIE/DRIE program causing many additional people to qualify. Given skyrocketing rents, I strongly urge any senior who thinks that they are eligible for a rent freeze to contact my office and we will help you apply,” said Assemblyman Dinowitz.

“As of November 2014, the Department of Finance (DOF) reported approximately 94,000 eligible seniors and persons with disabilities were not yet enrolled to receive New York City rent freeze programs. These programs are a lifeline for our most vulnerable population. I want to ensure that those who are eligible understand the enrollment process and are getting the help they need. I will continue to coordinate with my colleagues in government and the DOF to host these workshops to make sure anyone who has questions about the process is able to receive an immediate answer,” said Council Member Cohen.  

In 2014, Senator Klein raised the SCRIE/DRIE income cap to $50,000 to help seniors make ends meet. That same year, Senator Klein expanded eligibility for older adults under EPIC by raising the income threshold to $75,000 for individuals, and $100,000 for married couples. Together, these programs offer substantial discounts that can help keep life affordable for seniors living out their golden years in The Bronx.

For more information on upcoming SCRIE/DRIE and EPIC town halls in your neighborhood, please contact Senator Klein’s office at 1-800-718-2039.

Experts on Scrie/Drie and EPIC were on hand to answer any questions, and help fill out the forms for Scrie/Drie or Epic.

SENATOR KLEIN, CONGRESSMAN ENGEL, SENATOR ESPAILLAT, ASSEMBLYMAN DINOWITZ & COUNCIL MEMBER COHEN PRAISE LG AGREEMENT TO REDUCE HEIGHT OF PLANNED CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS

  New York Elected Officials Instrumental in Litigation Forcing LG Retreat on Proposed Tower

 State Senator Jeff Klein, Congressman Eliot Engel, Senator Adriano Espaillat, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, and Council Member Andrew Cohen praised the agreement announced today between LG Electronics USA, Inc. and a coalition of conservation and environmental groups from both sides of the Hudson River that will preserve views of the Hudson Palisades from a proposed corporate headquarters that would have towered over the natural and historic landmarks protected by the Palisades Interstate Compact.

"I spearheaded the fight to protect the beautiful vista of the Palisades, and today's agreement with LG Electronics to reduce the height of its building is a victory in preserving this national treasure that would have towered over the treetops,” said Senator Jeff Klein.  “I led the way by filing an amicus brief in support of an appeal in New Jersey Appellate Court, fought side-by-side with environmental advocates and won the battle against LG’s plan to forever ruin the verdant bluffs that we enjoy so much. My years-long battle paid off for the residents of The Bronx, and especially for our environment.”

The agreement resolves litigation that has been pending for over a year in New Jersey, with a coalition of individuals and advocacy groups seeking to void LG’s approval to build a 143-foot-high corporate headquarters Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey.  Under the agreement, which is subject to court and local approval, the building will be approximately 69-feet, and will not pierce the treeline.

“I am pleased that LG, Scenic Hudson, NRDC and others were able to reach an agreement that benefits the economic and environmental interests of the people of the Bronx, Westchester, and all of New York and New Jersey,”  said Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the United States House of Representatives’ Energy and Commerce Committee.  “We filed our amicus brief to protect the otherwise undisturbed Palisades tree line on the Hudson River, which has gone untouched for centuries.  Today’s agreement preserves that historic vista while simultaneously allowing LG to bring more high-quality jobs to our region.” 

Klein joined Congressman Eliot Engel; New York State Senator Adriano Espaillat; New York Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz; and New York City Councilman Andrew Cohen, in filing amici curiae briefs on April 7, 2014, urged New Jersey’s Superior Court, Appellate Division to invalidate LG’s variance to exceed the traditional 35-foot height limit in towns surrounding the Park by more than fourfold.  In their brief, elected officials argued that the variance allowed “one municipal board to defeat over a century of collaborative work and investment by New York and New Jersey citizens, legislators, and courts, as well as by the federal government, to preserve the historic Hudson River Palisades north of the George Washington Bridge.”

"The view of the Palisades from upper Manhattan is an awe inspiring sight and has remained largely unspoiled since Henry Hudson's voyage more than 400 years ago. A determined coalition of local environmental groups and elected officials were able to protect that view for what I hope will be the next 400 years," said State Senator Adriano Espaillat.

“The incredible natural beauty of the Palisades is an amazing resource that must not be spoiled. It took eons and eons to form and we have a responsibility to protect it,” said Assemblyman Jeff Dinowitz. “That is why this victory is so important. The elected officials, environmentalists, and other worked hard to protect the Palisades, so this decision by LG is very welcome to us.”

“The Palisades is a natural beauty, the view of which has been preserved and conserved for the benefit of New York and New Jersey. I am pleased that today’s agreement removes the immediate threat of the Palisades viewshed so that residents in both states can continue to enjoy the historic landscape,” said Council Member Andrew Cohen. “I plan on continuing to work vigilantly with my colleagues and advocates to fight for permanent protection of the Palisades from similar proposals in the future.”

All five elected officials were represented in the litigation against LG and in shaping the settlement agreement announced today by Bradley M. Campbell, a nationally known environmental leader and the President-designate of the Conservation Law Foundation.

STATEMENT FROM BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ

“The proposed LG Tower had the potential to stain a national treasure—the Palisades—which look virtually the same as they did when man first laid eyes on them. This compromise is a tremendous victory not only for The Bronx, but for New York, New Jersey and nature lovers everywhere. A smaller LG Tower, one shorter than 70 feet, will preserve these views and protect the Palisades from blight. I congratulate those elected officials, activists and community organizations on both sides of the river who fought so hard for this change, and I commend LG for listening to our concerns and agreeing to a reasonable compromise,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

SENATOR KLEIN, ASSEMBLYMAN DINOWITZ, COUNCILMAN COHEN CELEBRATE RIVERDALE NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE COMMUNITY AND TEEN CENTER GRAND OPENING

   State Senator Jeff Klein, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, Council Member Andrew Cohen, Riverdale Neighborhood House Executive Director Daniel Eudene, civic leaders and local community members celebrated the grand opening of Riverdale Neighborhood House’s (RNH) new community and teen center at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday. Klein, Dinowitz and Cohen together provided more than $550,000 in state capital and municipal grants to modernize and upgrade the facility, as well as bolster social services programming in the Riverdale community.

Senator Jeff Klein said, “The Riverdale Neighborhood House has been an anchor to the families of  Riverdale since its inception more than a 100 years ago. For decades, parents have entrusted Riverdale Neighborhood House as both the first stop in their child’s education and as a great connector later for internships and job programs for teens. Riverdale Neighborhood House has offered essential social services, resources and support to countless families and I am proud to have provided these much-needed upgrades to the facility. I look forward to continuing to work together with Riverdale Neighborhood House to ensure that Riverdale’s families and children will be afforded these vital services for years to come.”

Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz said, “The Riverdale Neighborhood House has been a pillar in our community since it was founded over 140 years ago, and I am absolutely thrilled to be here for the ribbon cutting of its new facilities. For generations it has been an invaluable resource for children and families as a place to learn and grow together while also providing service to the community. I was more than pleased I could help provide funding for their new facilities along with my colleagues so that RNH can continue its long tradition of service and learning in Riverdale.”

Council Member Andrew Cohen said, “It is exciting to be here today for the ribbon-cutting of the new community and teen center at the Riverdale Neighborhood House. I was happy to be able to contribute funds for the social and recreational programming that Riverdale Neighborhood House will offer local teens through their center to help the younger people in our community better prepare for their future. Through the community and teen center, Riverdale Neighborhood House will be able to help the youth in the community build foundations for their educational and professional futures while also gaining meaningful social experiences. These social and recreational opportunities will enable these teens to understand community engagement and leadership qualities.”

Daniel Eudene, Executive Director of the Riverdale Neighborhood House said, “We are grateful for Senator Klein and Assemblyman Dinowitz's commitment to Riverdale Neighborhood House and the community we serve. They have been there since they took office and continue to look out for us every day. And Council Member Cohen has sprung into action allowing new programs and services to take off at RNH, including our expanded efforts to engage volunteers. Together they help RNH be the best we can be for the entire neighborhood.”

Senator Klein secured $250,000 in state capital funding, Assemblyman Dinowitz an additional $250,000, while Council Member Cohen added $75,000 in municipal grants. Together, this much-needed funding provided the following improvements to RNH:

• Construction of the community and teen center;
• Replaced the oil fired broiler with a high-efficiency gas fired unit;
• Installed new air conditioning units;
• Made the RNH pool accessible by providing an elevator and rail lift to ensure those with limited mobility can not only get to the pool but enjoy it;                    
• Greened the property which included making it more environmentally friendly, adding permeable asphalt and more plant life on the grounds;
• Provided new fencing and exterior lighting;
• Supported the new Telephone Reassurance Program (TRP) that includes phone calls to homebound older adults to ensure they are able to remain connected to the community and secure in their homes; and                           
• Supported social and recreational programming.

Riverdale Neighborhood House, founded in 1872, is a multi-purpose agency that helps families of all income levels and ethnicities through various social programs for children, teens and seniors, including Pre-kindergarten.

Council Member Cohen, Assemblyman Dinowitz, Council Member King, Senator Klein, Congressman Engel and Community Leaders Call for Closing of Homeless Shelter in The Bronx Following Fatal Shooting

   State Senators Jeff Klein and George Latimer, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, Council Members Andrew Cohen and Andy King, Community Board 12 Chair Father Richard Gorman and representatives of  Congressman Eliot Engel and State Senator Ruth Hassel-Thompson were joined by community leaders at the Project Renewal Shelter in Wakefield to demand that the homeless shelter be closed following the fatal shooting of its director, Ana Charle, by an ex-tenant on Monday evening.

Security has been a long standing issue at the Project Renewal Shelter, with 175 calls to 911 from January 2015 to approximately the end of March 2015. Last year’s numbers are even more alarming, with 675 calls to 911 between January 2014 and November 2014. Local elected officials had repeatedly met with the Department of Homeless Services (DHS) requesting additional security be added to the site, in light of the high number of emergency calls being made from inside the facility.

Approximately 60% of the tenants living in the Project Renewal Shelter are formerly incarcerated felons, with arrest records that include felonies, murder, rape, and criminal possession of a weapon. In addition, many have serious substance abuse issues. As of December 2014, there were approximately 40 registered sex offenders living in the Shelter.

The City has made Wakefield a neighborhood for cluster sites and homeless shelters, with three DHS facilities located within blocks of each other:

•                      Temporary housing facility for homeless families on E. 233rd Street and White Plains Road

•                      Project Renewal Shelter, a 108-bed shelter for single-men, 18 years and older, on 4380 Bronx Boulevard.

•                      The Sgt. Joseph E. Muller Army Reserve Center, a vacant military post on Nereid Ave., is slated to become a 200-bed men's shelter operated by The Doe Fund

There is also a 61-unit Praxis Housing facility for formerly homeless couples without children, as well as single men and women, located on 4339 White Plains Road. 100% of Praxis residents are homeless individuals living with HIV/AIDS, 25% have criminal histories, 75-80% have drug or alcohol problems, and 75-80% have indications or documented histories of mental health issues.

Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz who ran the press conference said , “The tragic shooting that occurred near the Project Renewal Homeless Shelter on Monday highlights the major security concerns that we have repeatedly warned the Department of Homeless Services about. This shelter came into Wakefield with no input from the community and over the objections of its residents. The DHS pulled a classic bait and switch by placing at least 40 convicted sex offenders in the shelter without notifying the community. To add insult to injury, the City intends to open up another large shelter, the Muller Center, just a block away. This oversaturation of homeless men in one neighborhood is reckless and irresponsible. I call for the closing of the Project Renewal Shelter and a moratorium on any further steps to turn the Muller Center into a homeless shelter. Our community stands united on this crucial issue.”

“The horrific death of Ana Charle is tragically, the latest in a string of heinous threats, serious safety concerns and recurring criminal acts stemming from the Project Renewal Shelter on Bronx Boulevard. This neighborhood is completely inundated and oversaturated with homeless shelters and it’s clear from these latest events that something must be done. That’s why I sponsor legislation in the Senate that would prevent this type of aggressive, concentrated placement of shelters and establish a stronger community review process moving forward. I stand with my colleagues Councilman Cohen, Councilman King, and Assemblyman Dinowitz to call on this shelter to close immediately. The Bronx should not have to bear the brunt of the city’s entire homeless population,” said Senator Jeff Klein.

“This tragedy highlights the neighbor’s greatest fear. If these shelters cannot make a safe environment for their own staff, than how can we be sure the communities here in the Bronx and in Yonkers will have safe environments as well? Further construction at the Mueller Center should be stopped immediately in the interest of public safety,” said Senator George Latimer.

“Project Renewal deals with an incredibly tough population with serious mental health issues, the formerly incarcerated, as well as registered sex offenders. This work cannot be done without adequate resources. I personally met with Commissioner Taylor on February 2nd to ask for more security for this facility. It was not until the intervention of the Mayor’s office yesterday that security resources and protocols were implemented. I am thankful to the Mayor’s office for responding, but as of this moment I am not convinced that this facility can be run safely,” said Council Member Andrew Cohen.

“I first wish to express my condolences and prayers to the family and friends of Ms. Ana Charle. I am truly sorry for your loss,” said Council Member Andy King. “United, as a community, we are horrified. It’s one thing to create a safe haven for those who are truly in need of housing and it’s another to create community aggravation. Since I came to office, constituents have approached me on the street and at events — troubled about the Project Renewal residents who have approach them on the street begging for money or other reasons. We had asked DHS and Project Renewal to work with the community. Over the past year, we've expressed our concerns and requested more staffing and security to make this a safer facility. Our requests have been ignored! Now, the tragic shooting death of this shelter’s director has prompted our urgent call to close this shelter. “

  

“Let’s be clear about who and what the problem is in this instance. The problem is the New York City Department of Homeless Services and this incredibly incompetent and disingenuous manner in which it operates. The agency has yet to honor its commitment to ne forthright and transparent with local neighborhoods in assisting the homeless and to dialogue with us in addressing this urgent need. If perhaps the Department had worked with us rather than against us and behind our backs, the tragedy that causes us to gather this afternoon may well have been avoided. May the soul of Ana Charle rest in peace and may her loved ones be comforted by the Grace of God’s Consolation,” said Father Richard Gorman, Chairman, Bronx Community Board 12.

I asked now many resident were from the neighborhood, and the borough of the Bronx were residents of the shelter, and I was told no one from the neighborhood, and only a few from the entire Bronx.

After the elected officials who had to hold their press conference in the street finished, a press conference was held by the organization Homeless Services United of about 100 people on the sidewalk in front of the homeless shelter. I asked how many of these people were from the neighborhood (which is a neighborhood of color, and you will see in the photo only a few people of color), let alone from the Bronx. A black woman came forth from a back row, and a black man at one end raised his hand. Homeless Services United is based on the 6th floor of 440 West 33rd Street. 

Finally, I went to many of the local businesses nearby to ask if there were any problems with any of the people from the shelter, and was told by all that yes there are. Either loitering, begging, harassing customers or employees only to name a few of the complaints by the merchants near the shelter.

Left - Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz introduced the speakers.

Right - As you can see the press conference by the elected officials had to be held in the street, because about 100 people connected to the organization Homeless Services United were on the sidewalk in front of the homeless shelter. 

Left - Community Board 12 Chair Father Richard Gorman says a few words at the beginning of the press conference in the memory of Ana Charle, before he blasted the Department of Homeless Services, calling it the Department of Warehouse Services. Father Gorman had just checked himself out of the hospital to be here. 

Right - State Senator Jeff Klein tells that he has sponsored legislation in the State Senate that would prevent this type of aggressive, concentrated placement of shelters and establish a stronger community review process moving forward.

Left - Westchester State Senator George Latimer says that Yonkers stands with the Bronx in this matter with the Yonkers City line only a stones throw away.

Right - Councilman Andrew Cohen mentions that with his and Councilman King's intervention DHS security personal have finally been deployed to this shelter. 

Left - Councilman Andy King walks slowly to the podium as he is introduced. Councilman King is now calling for this shelter to close due to the tragic shooting of the shelters director after requests by the community and elected officials were ignored about the safety in the shelter.
Right - Two DHS security guards stand outside the shelter between the elected officials press conference, and the 100 or so supporters of the shelter from Homeless Services United.

 

A statement is read from the Board of Directors of Homeless Services United which read - 

To Concerned New Yorkers:

Our Community of Homeless Services United has experienced an unspeakable loss with the violent death of Ana Charle. We grieve for her children, her family, her colleagues at Project Renewal and the men at this shelter whom she served so well. We are united in our grief.

This is a day to support, console and be in solidarity with those who have been directly affected by this tragedy.

This is not a day for politics; it is a day to give thanks for the life of Ana Charle and for the thousands of New Yorkers who work tirelessly every day in their commitment to end homelessness.

We pledge ourselves to find new ways to effectively help the most troubled New Yorkers so that Ana's death will not be in vain.

          The Board of Directors 

        Homeless Services United

    Christy Parque, Executive Director

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

 Editor's Note:

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