August 12, 2020

BRONX VOICE

COLUMBUS GETS 24/7 NYPD PROTECTION IN BX?

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4th Year, No.5

Page 6

Picking up the pieces

Page 8

Homes still in dark, Trees litter streets

FREE August 12 - 18, 2020

Photos by David Greene

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2• BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020

Illegal BBQs on rise

By David Greene Bronxites looking for something to do during a global pandemic and recession have apparently found something-- illegal barbecues, as the city's 311 complaint line was already on the verge of tying the amount of complaints for the entire 2019 summer season.

Illegal cookouts were observed on June 20 and 28 along Mosholu Parkway, where multiple gatherings of mostly 10 people or less were found. A drive along Boston Road early July 3rd revealed billowing smoke from multiple locations, including one at the side of a Parks Department shed, on the south side of Bronx Park East.

Residents say it's worse than ever.

On July 27, multiple barbecues with large groups of people were spotted outside of the Jerome Park Reservoir, along Paul Avenue. Several young men on dirt-bikes were seen speeding and performing stunts along the long stretch of roadway.

Photo by David Greene

A man gets a good fire going along Mosholu Parkway North On July 20, Bronx Parks Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa addressed the long standing issue, stating that she recently added barbecue areas in Soundview and Clairmont Parks, and added, "People are not suppose to be barbecuing in other locations that are not indicated as such and what we have is people just not respecting the rules.”

Suggesting folks just hold picnics, Rosa added, "The charcoal ruins our trees. If you look at some of the pits of trees, you can see a lot of charcoal and it ruins the beautiful, natural environment.”

Norwood resident Sheila Sanchez, president of Friends Of the Williamsbridge Oval (FOWO), said of Mosholu Parkway, "There have been barbecues every single day for the last two weeks and no cops showed up.”

Sanchez could not say if anyone actually called 311 or the 52nd Precinct to complain, but added, "It's happening all along Mosholu Parkway, from Webster Avenue to Jerome, but most are between Decatur Avenue to East 204 Street and on both sides of Bainbridge Avenue." She added, "With multiple barbecues (at the same time) and sometimes it's repeat offenders.”

The problem of illegal cookouts has been going on for years, Sanchez was asked if this year is worse than ever, she replied, “Yes." Friends of Mosholu Park CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

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BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020• 3

Stabbed in Hipster Haven www.bronxvoiceny.blogspot.com

4• BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020

By Dan Gesslein Fears of gentrification in Mott Haven appear to be unfounded after a man was stabbed on a street in broad daylight. The NYPD released the surveillance video of the bizarre incident.

At around 7:50 pm on July 21, a group of men appeared to be caught in a fight with one man stabbing another. The video shows the suspect waving a knife as a shirtless man continues to confront him.

However, upon further inspection, the victim is seen to be bleeding

from a stab wound to his left side.

The 47-year-old victim and another man continue to confront the attacker as the man continues to wave a knife and lunge at them.

In recent years before the pandemic, Mott Haven was being hailed as a haven for hipsters.

New condos and developments sprung up in the South Bronx neighborhood which was being cited in news reports as a community in the throws of gentrification.

Anyone with infor-

The NYPD released surveillance video showing a stabbing in Mott Haven.

mation is urged to call CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA

(74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the CrimeStoppers website at WWW.NYPD-

C R I M E S TO P P E R S .

COM, on Twitter @ NYPDTips.

All calls are strictly confidential.

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6• BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020

Columbus Statue gets 24-Hr NYPD protection in Belmont

By David Greene After a tedious back and forth with the NYC Parks Department and NYPD officials, an unnamed spokesperson at One Police Plaza has confirmed that a "fixed post" remains outside of the D'Auria-Murphy Triangle, 24 hours a day, seven days a week- protecting a statue of Christopher Columbus.

The two-man unit has been observed on nearly a dozen occasions, at different times, at Adams Place between Crescent Avenue and East 183 Street, over the course of the last several weeks. The post apparently stood firm in the early morning hours of July 26, even as two men were shot and a large crowd was reported to be fighting with police officers at Grote Street and Prospect Avenue, a short distance away. One of the two victims succumbed to their injuries.

The 48th Precinct reported a second homicide in their command after a male victim was shot in the chest at 11:47 p.m. on Sunday, August 2, at 617 East 179 Street. It's unlikely that the 2-man unit, now parked across the street on Belmont Avenue, assisted.

On July 28, Crystal Howard, the Assistant Commissioner for Com-

munications at New York City Parks, was asked about the post, when she stated, "You should contact DCPI (Deputy Commissioner of Public Information) about PD questions, I can't answer those.”

When pressed about an inquiry and June 11 article by "StreetBlog," Howard replied, "Okay and we directed StreetBlog to DCPI, so you should call DCPI and ask them." When told that in a July 27 response, Detective Denise Moroney stated, "It's a fixed post, not a detail," and added, "Please be referred to Parks for the rest of your questions.”

Howard then responded, "Okay, well I can tell you right now that Parks did not ask for a fixed post at the Columbus statue. I can not tell you why they are stationed there, because Parks did not request their presence.”

Confirmation of the Christopher Columbus detail came on Wednesday, July 29, when an unnamed official at DCPI was asked if the post was stationed there to protect the Columbus statue and when the post began, the official responded via email, simply stating, "Yes, since June.”

The park at the D'Auria-Murphy Triangle was closed on Sunday,

Photo by David Greene

An unnamed NYPD official confirmed that a Christopher Columbus statue in Belmont is getting 24-hour police protection.

July 26 and Monday, July 27, it's padlocked fences barring anyone from using the park or accessing the Columbus statue, as the uniformed officers remained parked out in front.

On July 29, the NYPD also directed inquiries to Parks regarding the closure, Parks Department press officer Dan Kastanis responded, "Parks did not close this site and we were not made aware of any closures.”

Meanwhile, the June 8 story by Gersh Kuntzman and Adam Light for StreetBlog identified Columbus statues in Astoria, Queens and Cadman Plaza in Brooklyn as well as the one at the D'Auria-Murphy Triangle in Belmont as statues currently being given 24-hour police protection.

StreetsBlog and a June 11 article in the NY Post also identified a unit guarding the 13foot Columbus statue that rests atop a 76-foot pedestal in Columbus Circle, Manhattan. In StreetsBlog’s inquiry to City Hall, they were directed to contact the NYPD, who at the time had declined comment.

A reader of StreetsBlog has also since identified a similar post at a statue of George Washington on the Brooklyn side of the Williamsburg Bridge.

The Post article reported that the detail at Columbus Circle began on July 9, after several incidents were reported across the nation, including a Columbus statue pulled from its pedestal outside of the State Capital in St. CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

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BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020• 7

Illegal BBQs on rise CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

way (FOMP) President Elizabeth Quaranta also reported, "We have seen the aftermath of barbecue coals on the parkland.

It's a lot, but complaints are not the same with the pandemic, we are still living with and Black Lives Matter initiatives.

Some things just need to be put on the back burner for now.”

Quaranta went on to call cookouts with family "the American dream" and offered, "we need to choose our battles in today's movements," adding that public education is an ecologically sound and safe way for all members of the community to enjoy public parks.

She believes, "It's up to Parks to provide it's park users a safe area, with red bins for coal disposal," as FOMP have been

advocating for the special bins and additional signage for several years.

"Bronx like every other borough," Quaranta concluded, "is a melting pot of cultures that have barbecued for generations and to keep peace in the community, agencies including police need to work with the public.”

On July 2, Parks Department press officer Dan Kastanis reported there had already been 7 complaints of illegal cookouts in Bronx Parks, while 311 only received 8 complaints for the entire summer in both 2018 and 2019. Many park advocates believe that number is under reported or think that residents have stopped complaining about the problem.

Kastanis explained, "While

we offer more than 60 designated barbecuing locations citywide, at times people do not observe our rules. Our Parks Enforcement Patrol (PEP) officers have increased patrols around Mosholu Park and will continue to work closely with the NYPD to monitor and enforce the rules related to barbecuing in our parks.”

With the NYPD battle weary from months of the coronavirus and several months of battling Black Lives Matter protesters, condemnation from many elected officials and members of the general public, overall morale near and all time low and now the men and women in blue are facing an unprecedented rise in violent crime and shoot-

Photo by David Greene

Armed with what appears to be a can of gasoline, a woman starts a fire going during an illegal cookout on July 3, along Boston Road at Lydig Avenue. ings-- Parks will likely get little help, if any from local precincts this summer.

Cookouts are currently allowed at nine Bronx Parks,

for a full list of locations and rules, visit the Parks Department website at: www.nycgovparks.org/facilities/barbecue.

8• BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020

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Con Edison outage continues

Power slowly restored in Bx after Tropical Storm Isaias

By David Greene Con Edison is slowly returning power to the 21,655 customers in the Bronx who were left without power after Tropical Storm Isaias passed through the area on August 4. Customers are still left in the dark without AC just as another heatwave is set to bake the city.

Power outages are reported in Morris Park, Pelham Parkway, Bay Plaza, Kingsbridge, Williamsbridge and Riverdale.

One resident of Williamsbridge reported that

the lights went out Tuesday and briefly came back on Thursday night August 6, but went off again at 3 a.m., before being restored later that morning.

Morris Park residents along Van Nest Avenue, less than a half mile from a Con Edison plant on Bronxdale Avenue, reported they lost power around noon last Tuesday.

One resident complained, "They say they can't give us a day when they're coming... No, nothing.”

Asking to repeat a statement he had made about

Residents say a generator on Van Nest was blown on Tuesday and was reset by Con Edison workers on Friday.

Photos by David Greene

A man walks past a fallen tree along Virginia Avenue in Parkchester.

Mayor Bill de Blasio, the resident fumed, "If it was in front of his house, I'm sure the tree would have been trimmed and (expletive) fixed by now.”

The resident, now pointing to the transformer atop a telephone pole, in the middle of the block between Paulding and Hone Avenues, stated, "The tree branch broke and you see the red light on it? It's the secondary breaker, all they have to do is go up and push the button and reset it. That's what a guy told me the other day," as a Con Edison worker was surveying the area.

Many homes along Van Nest, from Paulding to Lurting Avenues were left in darkness. Some homes on Hone Avenue had power, while others did not.

Many residents would run their own generators until the power was restored. In the wee hours of August 7, Paulding Avenue lost power for about 15 minutes before coming back.

On August 8, another Morris Park resident re-

ported that power was restored that morning after nearly 4 complete days in darkness.

The home owner explained, "Yeah, they showed up this morning and trimmed some of the tree and pressed the little button and reset it and the power came back on," as the earlier resident had claimed. The resident and local business owner added, "We were without power for five days.

We had to shut down the business for three months, it's been hard. What's next? Earthquakes and locusts?"

One resident at Pelham Parkway and Stillwell Avenue reported power was lost at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday and returned on Friday, August 7. The resident also reported power coming on and going off several times, before it came back permanently, adding, "I could tell they were working on it. My mom said it was going to go back off again, and it did, but it came back on

again.”

The Pelham Parkway resident noted that she could not keep calling and holding on calls to Con Edison, because her cellphone would keep dying.

The resident continued, "I was keeping the cellphone off, because I couldn't charge it. It's been hell. I spent the mornings in my car everyday because my building isn't safe without lights." She noted that the entire block had lost power, except one new building that has its own power generator.

The Pelham Parkway resident concluded, "It's been hell. I felt homeless even though I have a home. It felt like a third world country, it was crazy. You have to appreciate the little things now.”

On Sunday morning August 9, Con Edison reported that 6,310 customers remained without power, but stated all customers in the Bronx should return to full service by 11 p.m.

Sunday.

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BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020• 9

Columbus Statue gets 24-Hr NYPD protection in Belmont CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

Paul, MN., on Wednesday, June 10; a statue of Columbus in Maryland that was knocked off its pedestal and rolled into Baltimore Harbor on July 4. A similar incident took place in Richmond, VA., on July 7.

The Post article, noting that the Columbus Circle statue is also surrounded by police barricades, quoted one police source as stating, "The gates are going to stay up indefinitely until the powers that be decide that things have calmed down sufficiently for us to remove them.”

One Belmont resident who declined to be identified, claimed, "There has been police activity in front of it since the riots. They’re sitting there guarding the statue of Christopher Columbus...

It's wasting tax dollars to watch this statue."

The resident continued, "I don't see how it's a necessity or a priority, but to each his own, God bless the mayor."

With the debate raging on the future of Confederate statues as well as that of our founding fathers, the resident was asked if statues of Columbus should be put in a museum, he responded, "Given the history of Columbus, not the one they want you to believe in this country, I person-

ally don't find anything wrong with the statue, but some people dislike it.”

"Will" of Belmont, an African-American male responded, "How can you discover something that was already here? I believe the statue should be here, but I think the full history of the real Columbus should be told," as well as the extermination of entire cultures of the American Indian and the creation of the slave trade.

Tony Jag, a resident of nearby Tremont, said of the statue, "I don't think we should deny history, whether we like it or not, it's our history, it's in our blood."

The Parks Department acknowledges statues of Christopher Columbus can also be found at The Mall in Central Park, Columbus Park in Downtown Brooklyn and Columbus Square, in Queens.

According to the Parks Department website, the triangle was created in 1918, and was to be named after Mayor John P. Mitchel, who failed to attend the dedication.

At the last minute, local officials named the park after two Belmont men, John D'Auria and Henry J. Murphy, who were killed in action in World War l.

The website also says that Bronx-based sculptor Attilio Piccirilli created the marble bust in 1925 and the bust was originally placed in the schoolyard of P.S. 45 on Bathgate Avenue.

The Columbus bust was moved and placed on a pedestal at its current location, after the park was renovated in 1992.

During similar pro-

tests in 2017, Mayor Bill de Blasio appointed a commission to examine the issue of "hate symbols." The commission determined that the statues of Columbus could stay and suggested that other statues be created in honor of indigenous people and Columbus' actions could be brought into

context. Both de Blasio and Governor Andrew Cuomo have each publicly supported the commission's findings.

After at least two requests, dating back to 2017, the City of New York has agreed to remove the statue of Theodore Roosevelt from the front steps of the American Museum of Natural History.

Health Matters 10• BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020

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Helping elders stay cool when the heat is on

By Esther Conteh, RN, VNSNY CHOICE Health Plans August is heating up, and with all the stresses of the last few months from the coronavirus crisis, it is more important now than ever for New Yorkers to be mindful of some important health tips when it comes to beating the heat.

This summer, oppressive humidity, combined with temperatures in the high 80s and 90s, puts older and more vulnerable New Yorkers at increased risk of heat-related health issues.

Many elders may not realize the dangers that can arise upon stepping out into hot weather unprepared. When taking into consideration additional factors such as air quality and cloud cover, temperatures can often feel much hotter than they actually are, posing hazardous conditions for those already at elevated risk of health problems.

It makes sense to stay mindful of hot weather

health cautions.

My colleagues and I at VNSNY CHOICE Health Plans coordinate care for homebound seniors so they can live safely and independently in their own homes for as long as possible.

Because the weather may slow down or prevent friends and family from visiting homebound seniors, it is important to ensure that they are safe and comfortable at home amidst high temperatures.

Below are a few easy ways in which New Yorkers—old and young alike—can stay feeling their best as they brave the heat.

1. Drink up One of the most important ways to maintain health during the summer is by drinking enough fluids to avoid dehydration.

Drink plenty of water and eat foods containing water, such as fruits, vegetables, gelatin (Jell-O) and ice pops.

Aim for 6 to 8 glasses of fluid a day (this amount includes the water in

foods). Beware of coffee, caffeine and alcohol, which can actually dehydrate, rather than replenish, the body of fluids.

2. Keep a healthy appetite Though your appetite may decrease in summer months, it is important to continue to eat well.

Be sure your daily meals contain protein (lean meats, like chicken and fish) and carbohydrates (vegetables and whole grains). Salad, fruit and other small, cool meals can be eaten throughout the day to maintain strength.

3. Cool down the body Take frequent cool baths and showers to keep your body temperature from rising too high (Be sure that the bathtub has a slip-resistant mat or safety bars to prevent slips and falls).

Simply cooling the feet in a bowl of cold or iced water may also help sustain bring your temperature down. Having a damp cloth to wipe down your face and arms

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is convenient as well.

4. Seek out cool places Since the COVID-19 pandemic, most of us are already staying indoors and social distancing. Keeping the blinds drawn so that hot sun doesn’t make apartments even hotter is one strategy to consider. But for those at increased risk in extreme heat, New York City does open cooling centers in air-conditioned facilities for people experiencing physical discomfort in a heat wave.

Visit https://maps.nyc. gov/cooling-center/ to find a center near you.

NYC also offers an Air Conditioner Program and you can dial 311 to learn more.

5. Consider temporary care for an at-risk loved one For elderly people who are home bound or living alone visits from a licensed home health aide, wearing proper personal protective equipment and trained in safety protocols, can also be arranged for a few hours to provide peace of mind for family members who can’t reach loved ones or check in when the heat is on to make sure they are getting fluids and staying

safe at home.

6. Get it delivered If possible, have something brought to your home rather than cooking inside or making the trek outside yourself. With many eateries offering delivery these days, and services like Fresh Direct, Amazon and local grocery stores able to bring almost anything to your door, you can stay safe inside instead of carrying extra things around in the heat.

7. Skip the sun’s peak hours The hottest time of the day is between 10 AM and 2 PM. Avoid cooking or spending time outdoors during this period.

If you must leave the house during a heat wave, wear sunscreen, as well as loose, light-colored clothing and a widebrimmed hat. Always keep a fresh bottle of water in the refrigerator and bring it with you when you leave the house. Be careful to avoid burns on metal, especially on walkers, wheelchairs or benches.

Esther Conteh, RN, is Director of Utilization and Care Management with VNSNY CHOICE Health Plans, a part of the Visiting Nurse Service of New York. To learn more, please visit www.vnsnychoice.org or call 1-855-AT CHOICE (1-855-282-4642).

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BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020• 11

Coronavirus- Lehman honors salsa patron, Chef Joe Torres

12• BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020

Lehman Center will honor the Patron Saint of Salsa in the Bronx, Joe Torres. The center is creating special seating section to honor and celebrate the legacy of renowned restaurateur and Lehman Center patron Joe Torres.

A commemorative plaque in Joe’s name will be placed on his favorite seat and additional Concert Hall seats located in the same section will have plaques available for a donation of $250 or more. Patrons will also have the option to leave a personal, commemorative message on the seat’s plaque.

José Torres, “Joe,” was a beloved restaurateur, chef and mem-

ber of the Lehman Center family. His restaurant, Joe’s Place, was a hidden gem nestled beneath the elevated tracks of the #6 train in the Bronx.

Joe was known for his friendliness and generosity within his community and well beyond.

“Salsa musicians had a postgig ritual in the Bronx.

When the music stopped, off they’d go to Joe’s Place, a Puerto Rican restaurant, where the owner and chef José Torres would lay out a free spread.”

- New York Times.

Hailing from Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, Joe developed his culinary talents from an early age in his mother’s kitchen. In 1953, nine-

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year-old Joe moved with his family to the Parkchester neighborhood of the Bronx.

While in high school, he started cooking in a midtown Manhattan hotel, working his way up from grill man, to line cook to chef.

Over the years he cooked in restaurants, diners and steakhouses.

With time, Joe transformed from the cook back in the kitchen to the affable chef everyone wanted to know and he realized that he wanted to open his own place “to do something with food and be proud of it, as a Puerto Rican, and stick to my roots.”

(Quote: Joe Torres).

His dream became a reality in 1998, when he opened Joe’s Place on Westchester Avenue in the Bronx, which quickly became both a favorite spot for local families and a must visit destination for Latin musicians, all drawn by their enthusiasm for his authentic home-style Caribbean food and friendly atmosphere.

After the Latin music stopped at Lehman Center, the musicians would all head over to Joe’s Place. “It was for the musicians, but whoever wanted to come by, they certainly did.

Everything on the buf-

Photo by Joe Conzo Jr. José Torres at his restaurant “Joe’s Place” in the Bronx. fet was on him. Talk about jam-packed!

But that was him. He did things like that,” said Master Latin pianist, Eddie Palmieri.

Unfortunately, Joe passed away in April after a hard battle with Coronavirus. In addition to being a cherished member of the neighborhood, Joe was a huge supporter of Lehman Center for the Performing Arts and his presence will be deeply missed at our Concert Hall.

To purchase a commemorative seat or make a donation in Joe’s name, please contact:

Janet Sanchez, Assistant to the Director of the Performing Arts Center / janet.sanc h e z @ l e h m a n . c u n y. edu or Mark Green, General Manager of the Performing Arts Center / mark.green1@lehman. cuny.edu Donations to Lehman Center are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

During these trying times, Lehman Center wants you to be spiritually well. Please visit our website www.

LehmanCenter.org for uplifting and inspiring virtual events that we recommend.

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Free hotel stay for those who test positive for Coronavirus

NYC Health + Hospitals announced that the NYC Test & Trace Corps, the city’s public health initiative to fight COVID-19 and help New York City reopen safely, will now offer new hotel services and amenities to make it even more convenient, safe and comfortable for New Yorkers who test positive for the virus and those who have been

exposed to the virus, to safely separate to protect their loved ones.

In addition to free meals, transportation, health care services and more, starting early next week, hotels will also begin to offer, telepsychiatry services to access mental health professionals, and will ensure access to medications for all hotel guests regardless of insurance status.

Hotels will also begin to offer COVID-19 testing on-site. New Yorkers who test positive for COVID-19 or who may have been

exposed to the virus can qualify for a free hotel room for up to 14 days to safely separate and protect their loved ones.

“Hundreds of health care providers chose to stay at a hotel during the surge of Covid-19 to protect their loved ones at home. Now any New Yorker who needs to safely separate from their loved ones can access the same comfortable, convenient hotel accommodations, with the added amenities and services needed to stay healthy,” said CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Free hotel stay for those who test positive for Coronavirus

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

Test & Trace Corps Ambulatory Care Take Care Lead Dr. Amanda Johnson.

“Our hotel program was created to serve all individuals who were suspected or confirmed to be exposed to COVID-19, whether they were experiencing symptoms or not. We provided physical, emotional, social and family support and care to aid their recovery at the peak of the pandemic. We

stand ready to provide this support to more New Yorkers who need it” said Hotel Program Lead, Nicole Jordan-Martin.

Staying home is not an option for many New Yorkers who test positive for the coronavirus or may have been exposed to the virus. Many live-in small spaces with multiple family members and shared bathrooms and cannot safely separate.

The Test & Trace

Corps’ hotel program allows New Yorkers to safely separate for two weeks at a hotel.

Transportation to and from the hotel is free as is transportation to dialysis or medical appointments.

If a New Yorker tests positive for COVID-19, a contact tracer will call them to offer options for them to safely separate. This could be at home or at a Test & Trace Corps’ hotel.

Additionally, if New Yorkers think

they have been exposed to the virus and want to safely separate from loved ones, they can access the hotel program by calling 1-844-NYC4NYC (1-844-6924692) to speak directly with someone who can help them access a private room. Individuals with children who also need to safely separate can be accommodated at the hotel as well.

Free hotel accommodations are part

of the three focus areas of the Test & Trace Corps, which promotes testing, tracing and offers services for New Yorkers to Take Care at a hotel or at home.

To view one of the participating hotels, visit the virtual tour here: NYC Test & Trace Corps hotel services include FREE: • Round-trip transportation to and from the hotel • Private room and bathroom • Free wifi and unlimited local phones calls to stay connected to family and loved ones • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily • On-site health care support by trained doctors and nurses, including access to mental health services • On-site social work and care coordination services • Medication delivery • Interpreter services to ensure clear communication in preferred language Hotel locations are not identified to protect patient confidentiality.

16• BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020

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Lincoln Hospital ranks high in heart health- US News survey

U.S. News & World Report issued its annual report of high performing hospitals, recognizing seven NYC Health + Hospitals facilities in various specialties as “high performing.”

NYC Health + Hospitals’ acute care facilities were rated as “high performing” in psychiatry, congestive heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The recognition was published as part of the national magazine’s “Best Hospitals” issue for 2020-21. The annual rankings are designed to assist patients and their doctors in making informed decisions about where to re-

ceive care.

For the 2020-21 ratings, U.S. News evaluated more than 4,500 medical centers nationwide in 10 procedures and conditions. This recognition builds on the health system’s commitment to provide high-quality, comprehensive care to all New Yorkers regardless of ability to pay.

NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln in the Bronx was ranked for its consistent high performance for congestive heart failure and for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

“These recognitions are only made possible because of the commitment and

Lincoln Hospital’s cardiology team.

passion from our clinicians and staff to provide comprehensive, high-quality care to all New Yorkers,” said NYC Health + Hospitals President and CEO Mitchell Katz, MD. “Our providers work tirelessly to not only treat patients, but also build relationships with our

Lincoln Hospital’s COPD team.

communities.

We look forward to continuing to improve access to life-saving care that further enriches a person’s wellbeing and make our communities healthier.”

“We are honored to be ranked consistently by U.S. News because it informs our patients that despite the challenges of the times, we maintain the highest standards, stay true to our core values and responsibilities for both heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,” said Milton Nunez, CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, located in the Bronx.

“With the pandemic,

we are discovering uncommon forms of heart disease, some manifesting as heart failure from COVID. This illustrates how important our ongoing commitment to share and keep current with breakthrough information improves outcomes for our patients.”

Congestive heart failure, often referred to as heart failure, is a chronic progressive condition that affects the pumping power of your heart muscles.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a common lung disease that takes one of two forms: chronic bronchitis or emphysema.

Annual Bronx food, farm tour going virtual

BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020• 17

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By Melissa Cebollero, Senior Director, Montefiore Health System Office of Government & Community Relations

No one can deny the massive impact that COVID-19 has presented for us as a nation, state, and city. Here in the Bronx, the pandemic strained the already challenging economic and social conditions that directly influence health factors and outcomes for the 1.4 million people who call this borough their home.

The social determinants

that affect the health of Bronx residents include unemployment rates, availability of safe and affordable housing, and access to fresh and healthy food options. The ongoing issue of food insecurity in the Bronx has only been aggravated by the pandemic.

Montefiore serves as a founding member of the “#Not62 Campaign for a Healthy Bronx,” along with the Office of the Bronx Borough President, the Family Institute of Health, and the New York City Department of Health

and Mental Hygiene. This campaign began in 2015 to address the Bronx’s health ranking as 62nd out of the 62 counties in New York state. The group aims to improve strategic health outcomes for the Bronx by uniting stakeholders from across multiple governmental, health, and community organizations to ensure that the Bronx does not get left behind.

Following in the aims of the #Not62 campaign, Montefiore is once again supporting the Bronx Food & Farm Tour series for the seventh year. This season-

al tour of the many Bronxbased community gardens and farms promotes healthy eating, educates residents about where our food actually comes from and supports the operations of local gardens and farms so they may continue to provide access to fresh fruit and vegetables for their local communities.

Understanding how critical maintaining safe community engagement and messaging on health issues is at this time, we came together with our partners to transition the

tour series onto a virtual platform. Each tour will

now be filmed by the New York Botanical Garden and will feature 3 community farms as well as a healthy food demonstration provided

by Bronx-based BBlossom Catering from now throughout October.

For more information about upcoming tours, please contact the Montefiore Health System Office of Government & Community Relations at (718) 324-4468.

Culinary Road

18• BRONX VOICE• August 12 - 18, 2020

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By Morris Gut

Where to eat after visiting Zoo, Botanical Gardens

A beautiful Technicolor harbinger of the seasons, the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx has finally reopened with new Covid-19 Guidelines in place. Basic hours are: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Check the website: www.nybg.org New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx. General info: 718-817-8700 I look forward to visiting NYBG, walking thru the beautifully restored Enid Haupt Conservatory and beholding the seductive floral arrangements and dramatic plantings. After taking in all that nature, we do get hungry.

So where do we dine nearby? Here are a few suggestions. Please remember, in New York City outdoor dining is permitted. In Westchester, outdoor and partial indoor dining is ok with restrictions.

CONSTELLATION DINING PAVILLIONS at NYBG! Ever since restaurant rock star Stephen Starr

took over the food service concessions at NYBG, now known as Constellation Culinary Group, hungry visitors have been taking note. They operate themed Dining Pavilions throughout the park and near the Enid Haupt Pavilion: the casual Pine Tree Café and a more formal dining room with waiter service called Hudson Garden Grill serving an eclectic American menu with locally sourced ingredients. Outdoor patio seating during coronavirus. There’s a pop-up near the Rose Garden.

Visitors may also bring outside food to enjoy at the Clay Family Picnic Pavillions. Check it out online: www.nybg.org/ visit/dining/ THE BRONX ZOO REOPENS! A favorite for generations of families, The Bronx Zoo has also reopened with Covid-19 Guidelines in place.

Check their website for the latest information: w w w. b r o n x z o o . c o m Restaurants and food stands are operating.

Mixed grill at Magno’s Grill.

Outdoor/patio seating is available. The popular Dancing Crane Café is open from 10 a.m. serving hot and cold dishes, snacks, and beverages.

So is the Terrace Café, Pecking Order, and Asia Plaza. There are also special tables for boxed lunches. Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx. 718-220-5100

www.bronxzoo.com

MARIO’S, 2342 ARTHUR AVE., BRONX 718-584-1188

Since 1919 five generations of the Migliucci family have worked the front and back-ofthe-house making sure patrons are well served at this venerable Little Italy institution. Mario’s is marking 100 years

of operation. Amiable owner Joe Migliucci passed away earlier this year. Now his daughter Regina is running the show. To many, the flavorful sauces and gravies produced in this kitchen are the stuff of Italian ‘foodie heaven’.

And for those in the know, the old-world CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

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Where to eat after visiting Zoo, Botanical Gardens CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

menu also holds many surprises. For starters enjoy the palate pleasing lagniappe of marinated carrots, hot peppers and good crusty Arthur Ave. bread as you survey the menu. Outdoor seating. www.mariosrestarthurave.com MAMMA FRANCESCA, 414 PELHAM ROAD, NEW ROCHELLE 914636-1229

A new flashy red-tiled woodburning pizza oven has been installed at Mamma Francesca in New Rochelle. There is an outdoor patio and partial indoor seating. When Nick DiCostanzo was growing up on the Island of Ischia on the Coast of Naples in Italy, his earliest memories where of the simple seaside meals he would enjoy with his family, farmto-table and of course sea-to-table. Located on the banks of Long Island Sound with 6-story views of the ‘Queen City’s’ seafaring boat clubs, this culinary philosophy still holds true. www.mammafrancesca.com ARTIE’S STEAK & SEAFOOD, 394 CITY ISLAND AVE., BRONX 718-885-9885

served with flair. Take a seat along the outdoor patio and enjoy: hearty Seafood Chowders; Asian Sticky Buns; Smoked Salmon RollUps; Wood Grilled Jumbo Shrimp and Scallops; hunks of tender Short Rib; a massive Zuppa Di Pesce; tender Oven Roasted Rack of Lamb; Chardonnay Poached Salmon with seafood; and fresh Lobster prepared in a variety of styles. There’s a loaded Lobster Salad Roll at lunch and their Mediterranean style Pizzas are good to share, too.

Craft beer selection. Off premise catering. Open 7 days. Free parking.

Outdoor seating. www. artiescityisland.com BRONX BREWERY, 856 E. 136 St., BRONX 718-402-1000

The popular Backyard at Bronx Brewery in the Port Morris section of the South Bronx has reopened with strict Covid-19 guidelines in place. You can enjoy some of their craft brews in cans along with wine and liquor.

Food trucks supplement the food service. Reservations are advised for outdoor tables, otherwise it is first-come first-served. Do check ahead for hours and menus. www.thebronxbrewery.com

It’s right in the middle of City Island, the charming seaport village near Orchid Beach.

Owner Spiro Chagares SEIS VECINOS, 640 and his staff offer paPROSPECT AVE., trons an inspired meldBRONX 718-684-8604 ing of traditional and The Bronx offers a lot contemporary dishes of fine international eat

and drink these days, so kitchens at Tango Grill, you might want to explore the local culinary landscape.

A recent event at Seis Vecinos on Prospect Ave. in Longwood was a tasty revelation. They laid out a colorful table of appetizing Central American/ Mexican specialties. They now offer outdoor seating all week. www.seisvecinos.com MAGNO’S GRILL, 108 CENTRE AVE., NEW ROCHELLE 914-235-0008

Chef/owner Angelo Magno had put his talents to work at such lauded

Milonga and Gaucho Grill. He has joined forces with his family at his own 60-seat spot featuring fine versions of Italian and Argentinean classics.

Look for such house specialties as: fresh Empanadas, Chicken or Veal Parmigiana, hearty Paella, hefty Pork Osso Buco, and Argentinean Parrillada, hearty mixed grill with chimichurri sauce. Cocktail bar. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Partial indoor and patio seating.

Municipal parking nearby. Reservations accepted. www.magnosgrill.com ALVIN & FRIENDS, 14

MEMORIAL HIGHWAY, NEW ROCHELLE 914-654-6549

Proprietor, artist, model, and consummate host Alvin Clayton is marking his 10th year in New Rochelle with solid doses of American Soul Food and a taste of the Caribbean.

Alvin & Friends Restaurant has a sophisticated Manhattan vibe: Alvin’s colorful paintings dramatically line the walls.

Check out the Classic Jambalaya, Shrimp & Grits, Fried Chicken, and Bourbon Glazed Pork Chops. Burgers and Mac & Cheese, too. Outdoor patio and partial indoor seating. www.alvinandfriendsrestaurant.com FOLLOW THE COVID GUIDELINES AND STAY SAFE! (Morris Gut is a restaurant marketing consultant and former restaurant trade magazine editor.

He has been tracking and writing about the food and dining scene in the Bronx and Westchester for 30 years. He may be reached at: 914-235-6591. E-mail: gutreactions@optonline. net)

Outdoor dining at Artie’s on City Island.

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