Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Queens Man Pleads Guilty To Midtown Manhattan Shooting

 

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that STEFAN MELVILLE pled guilty in connection with firing multiple rounds with a handgun at two individuals outside of a party at a hotel in Midtown Manhattan.  MELVILLE pled guilty before United States District Judge Richard M. Berman and is scheduled to be sentenced on November 28, 2023.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “On a summer night in Midtown Manhattan last July, Stefan Melville used a handgun to fire multiple rounds of ammunition at two individuals walking on the sidewalk near the corner of 42nd Street and Ninth Avenue.  The shots sent innocent pedestrians frantically running for cover.  This plea sends an important message that we will continue to relentlessly investigate and prosecute gun violence in our city.”

According to court filings and statements made in court proceedings:

On or about July 3, 2022, MELVILLE fired multiple shots with a handgun in the direction of individuals walking on the sidewalk near the corner of 42nd Street and Ninth Avenue.  The following images from surveillance footage show MELVILLE firing his handgun.

Image 1

Upon arriving at the scene, officers of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”) recovered the upper assembly of a firearm, 3 shell casings and 1 unfired cartridge inside the barrel of the firearm assembly on the sidewalk where MELVILLE engaged in the shooting.  The following images show the shell casings and firearm assembly recovered at the scene.

Image 2

MELVILLE, 30, of Queens, New York, pled guilty to one count of possession of ammunition after a felony conviction, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge.

Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Metro Safe Streets Task Force, which is composed of agents and officers of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the NYPD.

Two Pinterest Directors Resign from Nextdoor Board of Directors in Response to Justice Department’s Ongoing Enforcement Efforts Against Interlocking Directorates

 

Antitrust Division Continues to Focus on Competitors Sharing Company Directors in Violation of Section 8 of the Clayton Act 

The Justice Department announced that two directors of Pinterest Inc. (Pinterest) have resigned their positions on the Board of Directors of Nextdoor Holdings Inc. (Nextdoor) in response to the Antitrust Division’s ongoing enforcement efforts around Section 8 of the Clayton Act. The division's enforcement initiative has led to fifteen interlocking director resignations from eleven boards.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to protect competition by preventing interlocking directorates that we believe violate Section 8 of the Clayton Act,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Andrew Forman of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Enforcement involving interlocking directorates will continue to be one of the top priorities of the Antitrust Division.”

Section 8, which Congress made a per se violation of the antitrust laws, prohibits directors and officers from serving simultaneously on the boards of competitors, subject to limited exceptions. In response to the division’s Section 8 enforcement efforts, two directors who served on the boards of both Nextdoor and Pinterest resigned from the board of Nextdoor effective Aug. 1, without the directors or either company admitting liability.

Nextdoor is a Delaware corporation headquartered in San Francisco. It is a large social network that connects users, businesses and other neighborhood stakeholders. 

Pinterest is a Delaware corporation headquartered in San Francisco. It is a leading social network and image sharing service. 

Anyone with information about potential interlocking directorates or any other potential violations of the antitrust laws is encouraged to contact the Antitrust Division’s Citizen Complaint Center at 1-888-647-3258 or antitrust.complaints@usdoj.gov

Housing Lottery Launches For 3073 Barker Avenue In Williamsbridge, The Bronx

 


The affordable housing lottery has launched for 3073 Barker Avenue, an eight-story residential building in Williamsbridge, The Bronx. Designed by Dome Architecture and Design and developed by Omni Build, the structure yields 25 residences. Available on NYC Housing Connect are 24 units for residents at 130 percent of the area median income (AMI), ranging in eligible income from $72,000 to $167,570.


Amenities include bike storage lockers, recreation room, rooftop terrace, and a virtual doorman. Residences come equipped with air conditioning, smart controls for heating and cooling, energy-efficient appliances, intercoms, and name-brand kitchen appliances. Tenants are responsible for electricity.



At 130 percent of the AMI, there are seven studios with a monthly rent of $2,890 for incomes ranging from $99,086 to $146,900; 12 one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $3,059 for incomes ranging from $104,880 to $165,230; and five two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $3,599 for incomes ranging from $123,395 to $198,250.

Prospective renters must meet income and household size requirements to apply for these apartments. Applications must be postmarked or submitted online no later than October 16, 2023.

EDITOR'S NOTE:

This is not affordable housing.

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson - Community Resources & Updates

 

Dear Neighbor,

 

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.


We had quite the week, as we celebrated the 50th anniversary of hip-hop right here in the Boogie Down! Our hip-hop pioneers, legends, and fans did not disappoint and were with us at the celebratory toast for the Universal Hip-Hop Museum, at Yankee Stadium for the Hip Hop 50 concert, at St. Mary`s Park for our hip-hop tribute, and at so many other events commemorating the anniversary of this world-changing music genre. Even as others try to claim hip-hop for themselves, we are proud to be the official birthplace of this global phenomenon!


As the summer is about to conclude, we are preparing our students for returning back to school in the fall. Last week, we hosted a Back to School Health and Literacy Fair at C.S. 134 and we are hosting another Back to School event at P.S. 51. We were able to provide backpacks and supplies for 500 of our families in need and we are hoping to once again provide support for our students and families in our borough.


Lastly, thank you to everyone who helped volunteer for our Bronx Clean Up Series in partnership with the New York Yankees, the Sanitation Foundation, Amazon, and other community partners. Across the 6 events this year, 600 volunteers collected 5,203 lbs of litter! That's almost 200 more volunteers than we had last year and shows Bronxites' commitment and dedication to keeping our streets clean.

 

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 718-590-3500 or email us at webmail@bronxbp.nyc.gov.

 

In partnership,

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson


UPCOMING EVENTS



 
HIP-HOP 50

No one celebrates hip-hop like we do in the Bronx! So much love 

for hip-hop this past weekend as we recognized 50 years of this 

life-changing music genre. Thank you to the organizers and 

sponsors of one of the most epic concerts this year at Yankee 

Stadium, and Happy 50th Anniversary hip-hip!

 

📷: @geniusexposuremedia


IN THE COMMUNITY

The Bronx was well represented at the National Dominican Day 

Parade! Thank you to the parade organizers and everyone who 

participated this year.



¡Que viva Quisqueya! 

 

📸: @geniusexposuremedia


Our Back to School event was a huge success. Thank you to C.S. 

134, Montefiore Einstein, Empire BlueCross BlueShield and all of 

our other partners that contributed to making this event possible. 

With their support, we were able to serve 500 of our children and 

families.



Thank you to all of our new and returning members for joining us at 

our Community Board Appreciation Event & BBQ! Our community 

boards are an essential component of civic engagement and moving 

our borough forward. We are eternally grateful for your service.

 

This year, we honored our Parks Committee chairs for their work in 

advocating for enhancements and improvements to our green spaces. 

Congratulations to our honorees for their tireless work in fighting 

for environmental equity and justice in our borough.


Council Member Marjorie Velázquez - This Week in District 13


Dear Neighbor,


Over the next few weeks, my office will host several events as an extension of our Mobile Office Hours program. This is an opportunity to ask questions and file a claim to support your household needs. Our next event will be on Friday, August 18, at the Morris Park Library in partnership with Assembly Member John Zacarro Jr. and Con Edison. For more information, scroll to ‘What’s Happening in District 13.’


In this week’s email, you will find information about my office’s upcoming HPD In Your District event, school year 2023-2024 enrollment assistance, New York City Parks’ Flag Football, MTA fare rates, the MTA Mobile Sales Van, job opportunities, and more. I’m also excited to inform you that the Empire State Development has extended its Covid-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program for businesses. To learn more about this initiative or to apply, scroll to ‘Commerce Corner.’  


To contact our office for additional information or concerns, please call us at  (718) 931-1721 or email us at District13@council.nyc.gov.


Wishing you all a safe and wonderful weekend.


Sincerely,


Council Member Marjorie Velázquez


Fall Movies Under The Stars

I am happy to announce that Movies Under The Stars returns this month, just in time for the fall season. This year’s movies are perfect for the entire family and can be found throughout the district for all to participate in.


Drive In Movies: Wakanda Forever

Join me and Friends of Pelham Bay Park on Friday, August 25 for the annual drive-in movie, featuring Black Panther: Wakanda Forever! I am so excited for this year’s event, including the activities planned by Friends of Pelham Bay Park. This year’s event is at the Orchard Beach parking lot, so get there early for a parking spot!


HPD is Coming to District 13!

The New York City Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD) will be in our community to assist residents with housing-related issues. HPD helps with the following topics, including but not limited to:

  • Prepare to apply for affordable housing

  • Understand your rights and responsibilities

  • File a housing complaint

  • Finance improvements and repairs

  • Register your building

  • Remedy a violation

Where to find us:


Saturday, August 19

  • 10 AM to 5 PM - White Plains Road and Pelham Parkway South

  • 11 AM to 3 PM - 3040 East Tremont Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461

Tuesday, September 5

  • 10 AM to 5 PM - White Plains Road and Pelham Parkway South

  • 10 AM to 5 PM - 3040 East Tremont Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461



Utility Advisory


Please be advised that Con Edison will be performing Electric Upgrade work at 130 Erskin Place from August 17 to August 24 from 7 AM to 6 PM. Work will take place between Earhart Lane and Dead End, and will result in limited street parking, temporary lane closures, and noise.

Construction Advisory

Hutchinson River Parkway Bridge

From Friday, August 11 to Thursday, August 31, the NYCDOT Division of Bridges will conduct maintenance on the Hutchinson River Parkway Bridge over the Hutchinson River. As a result, two southbound lanes of the bridge will be closed weeknights from 12 Am to 5 AM. This work is subject to weather condition.


Whitestone Expressway

The New York State Department of Transportation has announced that there will be closures of the Exit 9E ramp from the eastbound Grand Central Parkway to Whitestone Expressway (I-678) on Friday, August 11, Tuesday, August 15th through Friday, August 18, Tuesday, August 22 through Friday, August 25, and Tuesday, August 29 through Thursday, August 31 at 12 AM (midnight) and continuing through approximately 5 AM each morning. This closure will also occur from Saturday, August 19 at 12 AM through Monday, August 21 at 5 AM


Shore Road

The New York City Department of Transportation will continue routine maintenance of the Shore Road Bridge over the Hutchinson River. As a result, single-land closures will continue from Tuesday, August 15 to Friday, September 15.


Daytime

  • Northbound - 7 AM to 9 AM

  • Northbound and Southbound - 9 AM to 1 PM

Nighttime

  • Northbound and Southbound - 10 PM to 7 AM

The New York State Department of Transportation has announced a 24-hour lane closure, impacting the center westbound lane between Shore Road and Hutchinson River Parkway. This closure is necessary for reconstruction work and will take place until Friday, August 25.


August 7 - 11

  • One lane will be closed eastbound between Hutchinson River Parkway and Shore Road from 10 AM to 3 PM for storm drainage installation

  • One lane will be closed westbound between Shore Road and Hutchinson River Parkway from 10 AM to 3 PM. This closure is necessary to install traffic signals

August 7 - 13

  • There will be a 24-hour, partial ramp closure, westbound ramp to southbound Bruckner Expressway (I-95). This closure is necessary for reconstruction work.


Whitestone Bridge

Please be advised there will be overnight construction at the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge requiring Queens-bound lane closures this weekend. There will be a single-southbound lane closure from Friday, August 4th at 11 PM through Sunday, August 6th, at 9 AM. In addition, a second lane will be closed from Friday, August 4th at 11 PM through Saturday, August 5th at 6 AM, and Saturday, August 5th from 11 PM through Sunday, August 6th at 7 AM.


No Parking

The NYC Department of Design and Construction has announced a ‘No Parking’ advisory for Pelham Parkway North Service Road between Eastchester Road and Bronx Park East, though Thursday, August 31, from 7 AM to 4 PM. This restriction is necessary to facilitate ‘end of construction’ work and is a moving operation.


Lane Closures

The NYC Department of Design and Construction has announced a ‘Lane Closure’ advisory on Pelham Parkway Westbound Main Road and Eastbound Main Road between Boston Road and Stillwell Avenue through Thursday, August 31, from 7 AM to 4 PM. This restriction is necessary to facilitate roadway reconstruction and is a moving operation.


Back to School Community Day


This year’s Back to School Community Day with the International Gospel Church is this Saturday, August 19 at 10:30 AM. Join us for a day filled with family fun, school supplies, health screenings, and more. 

Location 1807 Mahan Avenue Bronx, NY 10461



NYC Summer Streets

The New York City Department of Transportation will be hosting Summer Streets in the Bronx on Saturday, August 26 along Grand Concourse between East Tremont Avenue and Mosholu Parkway. Participants will enjoy free fitness classes, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities along the route and at rest stops. Please be advised there will be a ‘No Parking’ regulation in place beginning Friday, August 25 at 11 PM through Saturday, August 26 at 2 PM. Street closures will begin at 5 AM, Saturday, August 26 and will reopen at 1:30 PM.



Back to School Enrollment SY 2023-2023


The first day of school is Thursday, September 7, and with thousands of families enrolling their children, Family Welcome Centers will provide information on what happens during this time period as well as other information to help navigate the enrollment process.


To better serve families across the city, Family Welcome Centers will close some of their smaller locations and will operate in nearby schools. Families interested in scheduling an appointment can do so by calling 718-935-2828 or emailing their local Family Welcome Center by visiting schools.nyc.gov/FWC.


Families who have children with a placement will be best served by contacting Family Welcome Center’s enrollment office. Responses may take up to three business days.

If you child is not enrolled in school or you are new to the community, below is information to support during the enrollment period.

MTA Mobile Sales Van


The MTA Mobile Sales Van will be at 3033 Middletown Road, from 1 PM to 3 PM, on the fourth Friday of each month. This is a great opportunity to ask questions about your MetroCard, apply for a reduced fare rate, replace expired or damaged cards, and more.