For Whom The Bell May Toll

  Rumors are that the U.S. Attorney will be if not already has knocked on a few doors in Bronx County.

    Nothing is official yet, but going back to the New York Times article of last year, my subsequent discussions with certain elected officials for my column 100 PERCENT about the Times article, and the recent arrest of a prominent union leader may have given authorities the final piece to the puzzle which may have some unexpected results in the world of Bronx politics. 

    I hope that I am wrong, but the Bronx could be in for a big surprise within the next 24 - 48 hours. 

Bronx Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty To 13 Counts Of Preparing And Filing False And Fraudulent Tax Returns

  Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Shantelle P. Kitchen, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (“IRS-CI”), announced that CHRISTOPHER AHERN pled guilty today to a 13-count Information, charging him with preparing false and fraudulent income tax returns for his clients.  According to the Information, AHERN filed tax returns that fraudulently claimed more than $4.7 million in credits and expenses.  AHERN pled guilty today before United States District Judge Deborah A. Batts.   

Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said: “By repeatedly filing fraudulent tax returns for his clients, Christopher Ahern committed federal crimes and deprived the government of close to $5 million in taxes.  We remain committed to charging and convicting those who commit and facilitate tax fraud.”

IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Shantelle P. Kitchen said: “Unscrupulous income tax return preparers hurt not only their clients, who are ultimately responsible for what is reported on their tax returns, but all law-abiding taxpayers, who have to shoulder an additional burden.  Accordingly, the investigation of unscrupulous preparers remains one of the top priorities for IRS-Criminal Investigation.  Today, Mr. Ahern is held accountable for his egregious practices.”

According to the allegations in the Information to which AHERN pled guilty, and statements made during his plea proceedings:

AHERN owned and operated a tax preparation business called Get My Refund Fast, located in the Bronx, New York.  From 2012 through 2013, AHERN’s business prepared, and submitted to the IRS, nearly 5,000 tax returns.  These tax returns were false and fraudulent in that they claimed education credits to which the clients were not entitled.  AHERN received more than $1.5 million in fees from his clients for preparing and filing the fraudulent returns.

AHERN, 40, of Little Neck, New York, pled guilty to 13 counts of making and presenting false, fictitious, and fraudulent claims to the United States, each of which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.  The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge.

AHERN is scheduled to be sentenced on November 1, 2016, at 11:00 a.m., before Judge Batts. 

JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center - July 2016 Events

Please publicize the following July 2016 cultural events at JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center.located at 3880 Sedgwick Avenue Bronx.

On Thurs. July 7^th, enjoy a delectable lunch followed by the lively rhythms of Michael Gaskin, pianist/singer, at 1:00 PM. He will perform patriotic songs as well as selections from the Great American songbook, ragtime, Latin and ethnic, show tunes and waltzes for listening, singing and dancing. Lunch menu: Breaded Sole Fish Fillet, or vegetable liver, cous cous, vegetable mix and fruit. Recommended Senior Meal Contribution: $2.00 and Senior Event Donation: $1.00 Refreshments will be served.Non-senior Meal Fee:$5.00 and Event Fee: $2.00 Contact JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center office at 718-549-4700 for advance meal reservations.

The center will open on Sun. July 17^th. Lunch of sesame chicken, brown rice w/pigeon peas and beet salad will be served at 1:00 PM followed by entertainment at 2:00 PM. Recommended Senior Meal Contribution: $3.00 and Senior Event Donation: $2.00 Refreshments will be served. Non-senior Meal Fee: $5.00 and Event Fee: $3.00 Contact JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center office at 718-549-4700 for advance meal reservations and program information. 

On Thurs. July 21st, singer Phyllis Schapiro will present a program of Latin, Brazilian and Jazz music at 1:00 PMfollowing lunch at12:15 PM. Lee Feldman, pianist/song writer, will accompany her. Phyllis currently performs at several NY jazz venues including Cleopatra's Needle and BarThalia at Symphony Space. Lunch menu: Tilapia Francaise or veggie burger, Cuban rice, Kale and fruit.  Recommended Senior Meal Contribution: $2.00 and Senior Event Donation: $1.00 Refreshments will be served. Non-senior Meal Fee: $5.00 and Event Fee: $2.00 Contact JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center office at 718-549-4700 for advance meal reservations.

The Cynthia Sayer Trio will entertain at JASA Van Cortlandt's Volunteer Recognition event on Wed. July 27^th.Award-winning instrumentalist, vocalist and bandleader, Cynthia Sayer single-handedly re-popularized the 4-string banjo in jazz. Sayer is

celebrated as one of the top 4-string jazz banjoists in the world today. A multi-instrumentalist, Sayer's banjo, piano, ukulele and tenor guitar, playing can be heard on feature film and TV soundtracks.

Lunch of Salmon, Quinoa, California vegetables and fruit will be served at 12:00 noon followed by the Volunteer Recognition ceremony at 12:45 PM. The Cynthia Sayer trio will perform at 1:30 PM.Recommended Senior Meal Contribution: $3.00 and Senior Event Donation: $2.00 Refreshments will be served. Non-senior Meal Fee: $5.00 and Event Fee: $3.00 Contact JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center office at 718-549-4700 for advance reservations.

News From Congressman Engel

Engel Announces $412,111 to Help NYC Prepare for the Zika Virus

     Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Health Subcommittee, announced $412,111 in federal funding to help New York City thwart the spread of the Zika virus. The State of New York will receive an additional $474,016.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has allocated a total of $25 million to help states, cities and territories mount strong responses to the Zika virus. This funding can be used to purchase needed resources, such as screens and mosquito repellant, and to help local health officials identify cases of Zika and organize response activities.

“Now that mosquito season is upon us, it is critical that our City and State be ready to detect local Zika infections, launch prevention campaigns and link infected New Yorkers with the services they need,” Engel said. “While these awards will provide significant support to New York, more federal assistance will be necessary to launch a comprehensive response to the Zika virus.

“Federal agencies need these resources to conduct vital research, manage mosquito populations, and educate the public about this public health crisis. While House Republicans have been content to sit on President Obama’s emergency funding request and put forward inadequate funding packages laden with partisan riders, House Democrats have fought for a robust federal response that would address the threat of Zika head-on. I will continue fighting to get this kind of response through Congress.”

Engel to HUD: Extend “reverse mortgage” option to co-op owners

    Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, called on Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Julián Castro to issue regulations swiftly to allow co-op owners to take part in HUD’s Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) program.

“While Congress extended the reverse mortgage option to co-op owners through the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, HUD has not issued the regulations needed to execute this section of housing law,” Engel said.  “I spoke to Secretary Castro last week, and followed up with a letter, urging him to issue regulations so that co-op owners can also take advantage of this program.”

If you are 62 or older and own a private home or approved condominium, you may qualify for a “reverse mortgage” though the HECM program. This option permits homeowners to convert a percentage of the equity in their home into cash. That sum, along with interest and other necessary payments, does not need to be repaid until the home is sold or the owner passes away.

“Reverse mortgages are a valuable tool for older Americans,” Engel said. “Through the HECM program, homeowners can put the equity in their home towards medical care and other major living expenses. It just makes sense that those who own co-op units ought to be afforded this option. I hope that HUD will act quickly to carry out this section of the law, as Congress intended, and allow co-op owners to realize this significant benefit.”

The full text of Congressman Engel’s letter to Secretary Castro is below.

-----

July 1, 2016

Julián Castro

Secretary

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

451 7th Street SW

Washington, DC 20410

Dear Secretary Castro,

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me on June 27^th. I am writing to follow up on our conversation regarding reverse mortgages.

As you know, if you are 62 or older and own a private home or approved condominium, you may qualify for a “reverse mortgage” though the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) program. This program allows homeowners to convert a portion of the equity in their home into cash.

Congress has allowed those who own units in a residential cooperative housing corporation – or “co-op” – to participate in this valuable program through language in P.L. 106-569 and P.L. 110-289. Specifically, the HECM statute states:

 The term “mortgage” means a first mortgage or first lien on real estate, in fee simple, a first or subordinate mortgage or lien on all stock allocated to a dwelling unit in a residential co-operative housing corporation, or a first mortgage or first lien on a leasehold.

Despite Congressional action on this issue, and the considerable benefits that this program could bring to older co-op owners, HUD has not yet issued regulations to implement this portion of the statute. I am writing to request that HUD expedite this process and issue these needed regulations as soon as possible.

Again, thank you for taking the time to discuss this issue. I look forward to your reply.

Sincerely,

Eliot L. Engel

Member of Congress

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW - The Ones Who Remembered Me During My Time Of Need

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

You should know that for the past 2 months, I have been mostly bedridden, suffering and recovering from serious spinal problems.

It is important for you to know that on Wednesday, June 1st, I was admitted to New York University Langone’s Hospital for Joint Diseases, where they preformed various surgeries, one through my stomach and one through my back, to remove 3 discs and insert 10 screws onto my spine.

A few days later, on June 10th, because of difficulties, I was back in the hospital where Dr. Alexander de Moura opened me up to correct further problems.

There is an old saying that goes like this:  “One knows who their friends are when they are sick or in need.”

It is important for you to know that during these past two months, I have had the opportunity to see a great number of persons, dignitaries, ministers, bishops, friends, and even people I never met, demonstrating great compassion for me, more than I could ever imagine.

We all know that anytime something very difficult like this happens to a person, it is your family and close friends who are always by your side.  For example, my wife, Leslie, has patiently taken care of me like a mother takes care of a son. My children, Damaris, Samuel and Rubencito have demonstrated their love and support for me, and so have my grandchildren, nieces, nephews.

My fellow Ministers and Bishops, my employees, and Members of the Church where I serve as Pastor have all been by my side, trying to make me feel comforted and cared for.

I am grateful to God for all of them.

But my dear reader, it is important for you to know that what I was not expecting were the dignitaries and elected officials who took time out of their busy agendas, either to come personally to visit me in the hospital, or to give me a phone call.

Among those who took time to call me on the phone were: His Eminence Cardinal Timothy Dolan; United States Senator Chuck Schumer; New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo; United States Congressman Jose Serrano; State Senators Simcha Felder, Joe Robach, Joe Griffo, Jose Peralta, Adriano Espaillat, and Martin M. Dilan; Assemblymen Michael Blake and Victor Pichardo; New York City Councilman Rafael Salamanca; Taiwan Ambassador Lily Hsu; the Former Mayor of my hometown, Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Ramon Luis Rivera; and Dr. Ricardo “Ricky” Rosello, who is a Candidate for Governor of Puerto Rico.

Another official who called me was Charlie King, who I think was competing with Simcha Felder to see who would call the most. They both called me a million times!

Some officials who came personally to visit me in the hospital, aside from my son, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., were Assemblymen Marcos Crespo and Luis Sepulveda, former Senators Tom Duane and John Sampson, New York City Councilman Corey Johnson, and former New York City Transportation Commissioner Christopher Lynn.

I also received notes of sympathy from New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, Senators Kevin Parker and Toby Stavisky, New York State Senate Special Assistant Celeste Knight, Mr. Ken McFadden, the Castle Hill Senior Center, and reporters such as Gerson Borrero, Kirstan Conley and Jimmy Vielkind, who took time to demonstrate their love and concern.

To all of those Pastors and Bishops who took time to visit me and pray for my health and speedy recovery, know that I will be eternally grateful.

To the hundreds of people who sent me notes, emails and Facebook postings, too many to be mentioned one by one, please know that your good wishes and prayers have helped me tremendously and soon, with God’s help, I will again be walking the streets of the 32nd Senatorial District.

I am Senator Reverend Rubén Díaz, and this is what you should know.

EDITOR"S NOTE:

Senator Diaz you need to know that I tried to inquire about your surgery on the night of June 1st to your son the Borough President at an event he was co sponsoring at Billy's on East 161st Street. I was told by his Communications Director not to bother the BP, and had to leave it at that. I am very sorry that you have been in much pain and hope that you get better as quick as possible. I want you to know that I would have come to visit you had I known where you were, and the situation you were in my dear friend. 

That is What You Need to Know Senator Diaz.

Ischia Bravo for Assembly - Brunch with Bravo for Assembly

You are cordially invited to a Brunch in support of "Ischia Bravo, Candidate for the NYS Assembly,
Bronx-District 78th."

Saturday, July 9^th, 2016
1pm-3pm
Beso Lounge 
320 East 204^th Street
Bronx, NY 10467

Click here for the contribution form
 

The current disparity in the 78th district of the Bronx afflicts all residents and businesses. The answer to this lack of awareness and assistance from the state government is me, Ischia Bravo. As a lifelong resident and mother of two I am a woman who understands the issues that plague the Bronx. My passion and indomitable desire to improve the community is a powerful contrast to the current representation of the Bronx.

In order to reach the position of State Assemblywoman, where I can make a difference, contributions are needed. These contributions are not mere donations but in reality they are investments that will be paid back with my feverous dedication to the 78th district once in office. You have been disconnected and disenfranchised by the government sworn to assist and improve your life. It’s time to take back the 78th district from its history of stagnation and inability to promote positive change. So join me July 9th at Beso Lounge (320 East 204th Street, Bronx, NY) and together we can bring the change our community so desperately needs.

In Solidarity,

Ischia Bravo

News From Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman

Rooting Out Public Corruption

Attorney General Schneiderman charged political consultant Steven Pigeon this week with bribery, rewarding official misconduct, and grand larceny. In connection with the alleged scheme, New York Supreme Court Justice John Michalek pleaded guilty to receiving bribes from Pigeon, and for filing a false document with the New York State Office of Court Administration when he appointed a receiver who had been suggested by Pigeon. The charges stem from an ongoing public corruption investigation by the Office of the Attorney General. 

Major Settlement in Volkswagen Investigation

The Attorney General announced New York State’s participation in settlements with Volkswagen AG and its Audi and Porsche affiliates arising from the company’s violations of emissions standards and state consumer protection laws. As part of the settlements, New York owners of certain VW and Audi diesel cars will be entitled to sell their cars back at full, pre-scandal fair market value or keep their vehicle and wait to see if VW and Audi develop acceptable emissions fixes. Car owners who exercise either option will also receive a cash payment of at least $5,100. The Attorney General’s investigation is ongoing and intends to hold Volkswagen and its affiliated companies accountable for their violations.

Protecting Vulnerable Communities From Exploitation

The Attorney General reached a settlement with Global Elites Network Xpeed Learning Academy (“Xpeed”) that targeted Chinese-speaking parents with false advertising for a children’s summer academic enrichment program. An investigation by the Attorney General’s office revealed that the company was unable to provide substantiation for the miraculous results promised in its advertisements. The company will pay $60,000 in restitution to parents of children in the program, cease its deceptive advertising of the program, and make changes to the company’s refund policy. 

Expanding Access To Women’s Healthcare Resources

The Attorney General issued a statement following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to strike two provisions of Texas law that would have substantially limited access to abortion services in that state:

"Today’s Supreme Court decision striking down Texas’s unconstitutional and disingenuous abortion restrictions is a landmark victory for women’s health and definitively rejects the state of Texas’s spurious claims that their draconian restrictions protected women’s health. This ruling, the most significant abortion decision in a generation, puts states on notice that they cannot adopt restrictions that unduly burden or deny a woman’s constitutional right to an abortion.  In a concurring opinion, Justice Ginsburg movingly spotlights the women whose desperation in the face of such abortion restrictions would drive them to unlicensed rogue practitioners at great risk to their health and safety. Today marks a decisive step forward in the fight for reproductive freedom, and a turning point away from a period of endless restrictions whose sole purpose is to block women from exercising their right to choose.”

In January 2016, Attorney General Schneiderman led a coalition of 14 states and the District of Columbia in filing a friend-of-the-court brief urging the U.S. Supreme Court to invalidate both of these regulations.

Have a question, comment, or complaint? Click here. You can also learn more about the various initiatives of the Attorney General's office by visiting our website atag.ny.gov. You can also call our General Hotline: 800-771-7755. 

Senator Adriano Espaillat - Happy July 4th!

Dear Neighbor,

 

Happy July 4! As we celebrate our independence let's take a moment to remember all of those who have fought and died for our freedom. 

In the spirit of our forefathers, we must continue to work toward ensuring everyone has the rights and opportunities they deserve. 

Today, as we share time with family and friends, I urge you to remain considerate of others in our community.  

 

Fireworks are illegal and can be dangerous in the wrong hands. I encourage everyone to enjoy the beautiful Macy's fireworks or other professional displays, but refrain from inconveniencing and endangering their neighbors by putting on their own show in our streets.

Have a safe and happy Independence Day!

Sincerely,

Adriano 

State Senator Adriano Espaillat, 5030 Broadway, Suite 701, New York, NY 10034