Bronx Voice - August 2, 2023

Gunman sticks up guest, opens fire at Bronx hotel

By Dan Gesslein

Police are looking for a chain snatching gunman who robbed a woman inside a Bronx hotel and then fired at another man.

Police released surveillance video of the suspected gunman. He is seen on the video coming out of an elevator inside the Tremont Hotel. It is unknown at this time if the suspect posed as a guest or if he wandered

around the hotel looking for a robbery target.

At around 4:30 am on July 5, a 37-year-old woman was inside the hotel at 759 East Tremont Avenue. Cops said a man approached her in the

hallway of the hotel and displayed a handgun. The robber took the cellphone out of the woman’s hands and snatched the chain off her neck.

Cops said the robber then fired at least one round in the direction of a 33-yearold man in the hallway. Investigators did not speculate whether the man was

shot at because he might have walked in on the robbery.

Cops said the robber fled the hotel and ran southbound on Prospect Avenue. The suspect is described as a male with a dark complexion and a large beard. He was last seen wearing a dark blue t-shirt, baseball cap, light blue jean shorts and black sneakers. Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the CrimeStoppers website at https://crimestoppers. nypdonline.org/ or on Twitter @NYPDTips.

All calls are strictly confidential.

Police are searching for this man in connection with a robbery and shooting inside a Bronx hotel.

Barbershop stickup in Pelham Bay

By Dan Gesslein

at an employee, the other members jumped over the counter and stole the cash register.

Cops said the robbers also made off with store items.

The robbers ran off on Hobart Avenue.

The gunman wore an orange balaclava to cover his face. He also wore a black t-shirt with a white

A barbershop was robbed at gunpoint when five men entered the Pelham Bay shop and ran off with the cash register. Police released dramatic surveillance video of the masked robber pointing a gun inside the shop. The gunman wore a bright orange balaclava and pointed a silver handgun at employees. At around 1 am on July 17, five men rushed into the barbershop on Hobart Avenue. As the gunman pointed the weapon

graphic on the front, tan pants and red sneakers. Another suspect wore a black balaclava, a dark shirt and gray jogging pants.

The third suspect wore a red hoodie with a white graphic on the front. He had facial hair.

The fourth suspect wore a black facemask, a black hoodie with a white graphic on the front and red pants.

The fifth suspect wore a black hoodie and red

pants.

Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the CrimeStoppers website at https://crimestoppers. nypdonline.org/ or on Twitter @NYPDTips. All calls are strictly confidential.

Bronx man suffers fatal injuries at central booking

By David Greene

The NYPD has remained silent after confirming to the Bronx Voice on July 12, that a man in police custody suffered a fatal "medical episode.”

Without giving any specific details, Sargent Feno of the NYPD's Deputy Commissioner of Public Information (DCPI), confirmed that Justin Gidora, 36, had been in custody and according to

friend's was on life-support at Lincoln Hospital.

Feno explained, "At this point the incident is being investigated as a medical episode... which occurred inside of Bronx Central Booking,"

on East 161 Street.

Asked if Gidora's injuries was the result of a fight in the lock-up, Feno reiterated, "The incident is under investigation as a medical episode, the medical examiner will determine the cause of death and the incident is under investigation by the NYPD's Force Investigation Division.”

Feno vowed that the DCPI email team would respond with details of Gidora's arrest and injuries on July 14, but had not yet responded by July 31.

Friends say Gidora grew up in Woodlawn, attended P.S. 19 and Lehman High School. Friends also say he never regained consciousness and was taken off life support and died on July 13.

As word of Gidora's condition spread, an unknown friend wrote "Gusto," Gidora's nickname on the side wall of the Woodlawn Gift Shop at East 237 Street and Katonah Avenue and on July 12, residents of the community then placed and lit candles, left flowers and paid their respects to a young man that they said didn't have much, but always had a smile.

One longtime friend of Gidora's recalled, "His brother passed away when he was in his twenties. His mother and grandmother passed away

within the last five-years." Multiple friends say Gidora struggled with alcohol addiction and most recently had been living at a homeless shelter on East 183 Street.

One unidentified friend recalled, "I heard that he got beat up in Central Booking, that's what made me go looking for him... Then someone called me up and said he was in the hospital, in a coma." The friend then asked, "How the hell does that happen in police custody?”

Another said of the police department, "If you guys are covering something up then that's why, if not show us the proof and will see he really did have a seizure, he really hit his head which is unfortunate, but they're not answering so they're looking suspicious.”

The Office of the Mayor, The Unified Court System and the medical examiner's office all directed questions to the NYPD who has still not provided any details since the incident nearly three-weeks ago.

A second memorial mass will be held for Gidora at St. Barnabas Roman Catholic Church in Woodlawn at 9 a.m. on Sunday, August 5. Friends have so far raised $1,780 of $3,000 they hope to raise to create a permanent memorial for Gidora.

An undated photo of Justin Gidora before he was taken off life support and died on July 13.

Clothing thief made off with 2 Grand in merch

By Dan Gesslein

Cops are looking for a less than fashionable gunman who made off with $2,000 worth of clothing stuffed inside a laundry bag in the Bronx.

At around 4:30 pm on July 7, a man walked into a Snipes apparel on East Burnside and approached a 31-yearold female employee. He approached the clerk about making a purchase.

Without warning the “customer” pulled out a handgun

and told the worker to hand over merchandise. Cops said the gunman forced the worker to put clothes into the green laundry bag the suspect was carrying.

Cops said the bag contained around $2,000 in clothing. The suspect slung the laundry bag over his shoulder filled with stolen merchandise and walked out of the store. Cops said he was last seen walking westbound on Jerome Avenue toward the Number 4 train station at

Burnside Avenue.

No one was injured during the armed robbery. Police released surveillance video of the suspect carrying a large and filled laundry bag outside the train station. The suspect is described as a male who is 5 foot 11 with a dark complexion and thin build. The suspect was last seen wearing a white tank top, blue jeans worn low revealing his blue boxers. He also wore gold and black sneakers.

Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the CrimeStoppers website at https://crimestoppers. nypdonline.org/ or on Twitter @NYPDTips.

All calls are strictly confidential.

E-Bike dangers have New Yorkers seeing red instead of green

By David Greene

The number of injuries and deaths continue to climb from the mostly improper use of the new e-scooters, mopeds, and some e-bikes, often caused by poorly manufactured or incompatible chargers as homes and businesses have erupted in flames.

On July 15, the FDNY reported via Twitter that as of July 6, there have been 125 fires caused by Lithium-ion batteries in New York City that have led to at least 13 deaths and 66 injuries since January 1st.

But the greatest danger to most Bronxites surveyed on the issue, as a large majority

agree-- Scooter riders drive like they don't have to follow the rules of the road.

The New York City Council recently passed a measure banning the sale of non-UL certified electric bikes and scooters with lithium-ion batteries as well as their reconditioning for resale, but little has been done to en-

force the traffic laws involving scooters and e-bikes and police are forced to confiscate illegal bikes when time permits and its safe to do so.

On July 3, Citizens App reported a motorcycle crash at Bogart Avenue and Van Nest Avenue in the Morris Park section at just before 9:30 a.m. The visibly shaken female driver told the Bronx Voice, "He just basically ran. He didn't bother looking at the stop sign and he just kept going.”

The victim continued, "It was a regular moped. He didn't have a license plate. He just banged into (the vehicle).”

Pointing to a dent in the car

and shattering the passenger window. She added, "And you see the impact, that's how fast he was going and he didn't stop." Now near tears, she concluded, "And then he looked at me like I was at fault. I stopped." As she pointed out she captured the crash on dash-cam video.

On June 19, officers from the 40th Precinct were called to Third Avenue and East 149 Street in The Hub, after an e-bike rider and a scooter rider collided, sending the e-bike rider into the path of an MTA bus.

The unidentified 60-yearold moped rider was injured and treated at the scene by paramedics, while the 58-year-old e-bike rider suffered a severe head injury and was transported to Lincoln Hospital in critical condition. The NYPD continues to investigate the cause of the crash.

One man operating an unlicensed scooter as he crossed Third Avenue and stopped to look at the crash scene. The scooter rider attempted to defend his own decision to not wear a helmet, stating, "I wear a helmet, I live nearby.”

The scooter rider said, "I know, but these guys, they drive wild." Asked if he follows all the rules, he replied, "Yes, I do." He continued, "But these guys are wild,

they beat the light, they ride on the sidewalk."

On June 20, a Manhattan e-bike shop burst into flames on Madison Street. The fire spread to the apartment building over the shop, killing four people and critically injuring two others.

On June 21, Mayor Eric Adams joined FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh and other city officials as they visited the Madison Street e-bike shop and announced a new plan to expedite investigations into complaints about e-bike shops and other locations charging these vehicles as well as a new education plan targeted for bike shops to prevent future fires. At a press conference held outside the shop, Adams said, "We are committed to leading the nation in identifying proactive ways to both increase enforcement against those improperly using lithium-ion batteries while simultaneously educating users on how to best use these products.”

Adams stated that beginning on that day all complaints to 311 regarding bike shops or any location with "questionable activity" regarding e-bike or scooter charging will be investigated by the FDNY within 12 hours. Members of the city's Small Business Services

Photo courtesy of the NYC Mayors office Mayor Eric Adams joins other city officials as they survey the damage at the deadly e-bike store fire on Madison Street on June 21.

E-Bike dangers have New Yorkers seeing red instead of green

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

will assist in instructing local businesses regarding the safe charging of e-bikes and scooters.

FDNY Commissioner Kavanagh said, "We are devastated by the losses suffered at the fire at the e-bike store in Chinatown. Too many people have lost their lives because of lithium-ion batteries.”

There have been at least five recent fires suspected to have been caused by lithium-ion batteries:

* An all-hands fire on the third floor of 3636 Holland Avenue on June 15. One person was reportedly injured.

* An all-hands fire reported at 1420 Washington Avenue, also on June 15.

* A fire reported on the 4th-

floor of 1387 Jessup Avenue on June 11.

* A fire was reported at an e-bike store at 275 East 206 Street on June 7.

* An e-bike fire reported in the rear of 1579 Leland Avenue on June 7.

The Bronx Voice has asked the FDNY for a list of recent lithium-ion related fires in the Bronx, while asking them to

confirm the list above involving these batteries. The FDNY was unable to provide a list or confirm that the fires above were caused by these batteries, before the publication of this article.

The FDNY is urging owners of Lithium-ion-powered devices to visit the following website for the best practices to share and store these vehicles, visit:

www.FDNYSmart.org.

Meanwhile, the 49th Precinct sent out this recent warning on Twitter, telling residents, “Be aware that thieves working in pairs are using mopeds / e-bikes to snatch chains off the necks of pedestrians.” Officials say be aware of your surroundings and remain cautious when two people ride a scooter on a sidewalk.

Op Ed

Protecting our youth from fl avored vapes

By Mayor Eric Adams

One of my most sacred obligations as Mayor is keeping our children safe from harm. And one of the leading risks to their health is nicotine-based products, including cigarettes and e-cigarettes, also known as vapes.

We have made great progress, as a city and nation, keeping our youth safe from traditional cigarette smoking—bringing down youth smoking rates from 23% in 2000 to 2.3% in 2021. But with the rise of vaping, nicotine addiction among middle and high school students is once again on the rise. Vapes are packed with nicotine, a toxic and highly addictive chemical that is particularly damaging to adolescent minds and bodies.

Worse still, companies are luring our children by advertising youth-friendly vape fla-

vors such as “strawberry milkshake,” “cola,” and “pina colada.” Their product packaging often features colorful, child-friendly cartoon characters designed to catch the eye of young people.

This is illegal. And my administration will not stand by while companies put our children at risk.

Last week, we announced a major, federal lawsuit against four distributors of flavored, disposable e-cigarettes. Our lawsuit names four distributors of flavored vape that are putting profits over people and

hurting our young people. We are seeking a court order that will prevent these distributors from further delivering their dangerous flavored products into New York City. And we are asking them to pay for the harm they have already caused our children.

When children see youth-friendly packaging, they may think: ‘This is something I’d like to try. This is something that won’t hurt me.’ Families should be clear: that is 100% false. Nicotine may affect the ability to learn and concentrate and withdrawal symptoms can include irritability, anxiety, and depression, worsening mental health at a time when our young people are already struggling.

In 2021, more than 1 in 10 public high school students across the coun-

try reported using e-cigarettes in a 30-day sample period. And flavored e-cigarettes with their colorful packaging and appealing flavors are the gateway to long-term e-cigarette use. 81% of first-time users, ages 1217, started with flavored products. Most have never previously smoked. An overwhelming majority of youth e-cigarette users choose to vape because they were attracted to the flavors.

We will not allow this

greedy, harmful, and openly illegal behavior to continue. We will not allow these nicotine-pushers to harm the health of our children, to put our students on the path to addiction, make them customers and users for life, and expose them to unknown longterm health effects. We will do whatever it takes to keep our children safe, and our lawsuit seeks to stop these four companies dead in their tracks.

Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Corporation Counsel Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix announce that the City of New York is filing a federal lawsuit

Photo by Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

P’rkchester Native becomes Top Cop overseeing changes at the NYPD

By David Greene

Mayor Eric Adams was joined by local elected officials and top brass of the NYPD who gathered outside the 40th Precinct in Mott Haven as Adams sworein Parkchester native Edward Caban. The first Hispanic police commissioner, Caban will oversee the nation's largest police force with 36,000 officers and 19,000 civilian employees.

The 40th Precinct on Alexander Avenue was chosen for the swearing-in that was held on July 17, because this was where Caban began his police career in 1991. Caban was promoted to First Deputy Commissioner in 2022 and was named Acting Police Commissioner with the abrupt resignation of Keechant Sewell, the first woman to ever hold the post. Sewell stepped down in June.

Caban, who became the 46th Police Commissioner of the NYPD, told the crowd, "Together we will build upon our success and continue to drive down crime and improve the quality of life in our communities." He added, "To be the first Hispanic police commissioner is an honor of the highest measure.”

Minutes after Caban took his oath, Adams swore-in First Deputy Commission-

er Tania Kinsella, the first woman to ever hold that post. Kinsella is a 20-year veteran of the department who was the commanding officer at the 120th Precinct on Staten Island before becoming the executive officer of the Patrol Service Bureau.

Borough President Vanessa Gibson said of Caban's appointment, "Commissioner Caban represents us and is a Bronx native and graduate of Cardinal Hayes High School... Today, in a full circle moment, Commissioner Caban returned to the 40th Precinct as our Police Commissioner.”

The following day Adams joined Caban for a ceremony at One Police Plaza as he named Rebecca Weiner as the Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism, becoming the first woman to hold that post.

On July 28, Caban did not join a trio of top police officials who held a question-and-answer session with members of the media regarding the recent upgrade of several police radio frequencies in Brooklyn, as those communications went silent on July 17. Members of the media can no longer hear transmissions on those frequencies as the system is overhauled with the new encryption.

At the start of the question-and-answer session Ruben Beltran, the Chief of Information Technology was asked if the communications blackout would be citywide and would there be a carveout for members of the press, Beltran replied, "Yes, we do plan to expand this upgrade," adding that upgrading the 40-year-old technology would be completed over the next year-and-a-half.

Regarding the press access to these communications, Beltran said, "We have been looking at other cities and we continue to explore our options to enable media access consistent with what the technology supports." Beltran was pressed several times on the issue of granting media access to police communications but didn't have an answer despite those changes having already be-

gun.

After the confirmation by the NYPD of their encrypting their radio frequencies, the New York City Council issued a statement that read in part, "Transparency is key to achieving and maintaining public safety. It is troubling that the NYPD began encrypting its radio system without an adequate transparency plan implemented first.”

The statement added, "This rollout raises serious public safety and policy concerns that need to be further examined. The Council will continue to prioritize strengthening transparency and accountability to promote (the) safety of New Yorkers.”

Besides the new patrol cars with the green stripe, the NYPD had been using License Plate Readers (LPR's)

to track a particular vehicle and the technology now works in conjunction with a new GPS launcher that sticks to a particular vehicle and can be followed by an aviation unit until it stops. The practice has resulted in numerous arrests in the past six months.

The most controversial technology is the "Digidog," a robotic dog that will soon be deployed during "active shooter" incidents and police standoffs.

One of the more unexpected changes relating to the NYPD was after securing a new contract in April, Police Benevolent Association (PBA) President Pat Lynch did not seek reelection and stepped down at the end of June when his term expired. Lynch was first elected in 1999. Lynch was replaced by Patrick Hendry, 51.

Surrounded by top brass and local elected officials, Parkchester native Eddie Caban puts his hand on the Bible and is sworn in as police commissioner on the steps of the 40th Precinct in Mott Haven.

Photo by David Greene

Health Matters

Advances in Lung Cancer Care

By Neel P. Chudgar, M.D., associate director, Clinical & Translational Research, Thoracic Surgery at Montefiore Einstein Cancer Center & Assistant Professor of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine

World Lung Cancer Day is observed every year on August 1 to raise awareness of lung cancer and, for us, to reflect on where we are when it comes to both research and treatment of this disease. Of all cancers, lung cancer is the leading cause of death both in our country and New York. Lung cancer is also a leading cause of disability among cancers, which makes finding new ways to treat this disease of the utmost importance.

Though reports of lung cancer date back to more than 100 years ago, in the last few years, treatment of the disease is getting markedly better. With the ability to detect cancers at earlier stages, more people are getting access to surgical therapies, and for some people, this treatment can curative. While undergoing surgery can understandably be frightening, surgical management of this disease has dramatically evolved over the past decade.

The Evolution of Surgery for Lung Cancer

Evaluation of a national database of people treated for lung cancer has demonstrated a shift in how cancers are removed. Prior to 2010, more than twothirds of patients would undergo lung removal surgically by thoracotomy, an operation where a large incision across the chest is made, and the ribs are spread to access the chest cavity. In con-

trast to these more painful procedures, the majority of cases are currently performed with small incisions, either robotically or using video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), meaning with a camera and telescopic instruments.

While minimally-invasive surgery has been long supported and practiced, recent data has found that people who undergo lung surgery using VATS, had quicker recovery after surgery when compared to people undergoing traditional open procedures. Similarly, no differences in survival have been noted in individuals who have been appropriately selected to have surgery by minimally-invasive techniques.

These types of “small incision” surgeries have gained great popularity in recent times, and there has been a surge in the robotics over the last decade.

While robotic surgery and

VATS are both types of minimally-invasive operations, the robotic platform is a newer technology that has gained great popularity amongst surgeons. With improved three-dimensional visualization along with specialized instruments that allow for incredibly precise movements, the robotic system, which has surged in popularity, will almost certainly become the most used form of minimally-invasive thoracic surgery.

‘Why Less-is-More’

In addition to updates in how operations are performed, there has also been more data to support a “less-is-more” approach regarding the amount of lung needing to be removed. While removing a full lobe of the lung, or lobectomy, has been seen as the gold standard for lung cancer surgery in the past, we are seeing that certain individuals can be treated with smaller resections. Two recent trials have demonstrated that some patients with small tumors, less than two-centimeters in size and located in the outer portion of the lung, can have a sublobar or partial lung resection, which allows more of the lung to be preserved. This advance may enable surgery to be offered to more people with reduced lung function who would not otherwise tolerate lobectomy, a surgical procedure where an entire lobe/section of the lung is removed.

At Montefiore Einstein Cancer Center, we offer the

most evidence-based lung cancer care to our community. In just two years, our thoracic surgery team has completed 200 robotic-assisted operations. Moreover, the vast majority of surgeries performed for lung cancer are minimally-invasive, allowing our community members to return to their normal lives sooner.

As we approach World Lung Cancer Day, we couldn’t be prouder to announce that our fast-growing program will soon perform its 100th robotic anatomic lung resection, whereby a portion of the lung with its corresponding vascular and airway anatomy is removed.

These operations provide technically demanding and high-quality cancer care, and our institution is thrilled to provide high volume, world class care. Equally exciting is that nearly half of these procedures are sublobar resections, meaning we can save more lung.

I have no doubt that the future of lung cancer care will undoubtedly bring more hope to the horizon. We look forward to sharing more details about new milestones in lung cancer treatment. In the meanwhile, if you are 50 or older and currently smoke or have smoked in the past, talk to your doctor about lung cancer screening today.

Ways to stay active, healthy this summer

By Kayla Mercedes Lee

Staying healthy during the Summer involves taking care of your physical, mental, and overall well-being while enjoying the seasonal changes.

MHHC is a healthcare organization in NYC that is constantly finding ways to keep its community healthy all-year round. However, it is especially important to cultivate healthy habits as the weather transitions from a warm Spring to a hot Summer. Our bodies require extra care in order to properly adjust and adapt to the change of season and avoid potential health issues such as a change of season cold and the flu. MHHC inspires health in its community through education and events related to health and wellness.

Here are some ways to stay healthy this Summer:

1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration, especially in hot weather. We encourage individuals to carry a water bottle and consume fluids even when they are not feeling thirsty. Make your water fun and avoid sugary beverages such as soda and juice by infusing your water with berries, citrus fruits, or cucumbers and herbs such as mint.

2. Protect yourself from the sun: Advise individuals to wear sunscreen with a high SPF rating and reapply it every two hours, especially when spending time outdoors. We encourage everybody to wear protective clothing,

such as hats and sunglasses, and seek shade during the peak sun hours.

3. Practice safe outdoor activities: Promote physical activity but emphasize the importance of safety. We encourage individuals to exercise during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening, to avoid heat exhaustion or heatstroke. We remind you all to use appropriate safety gear when participating in sports or outdoor activities.

4. Maintain a balanced diet: Emphasize the importance of a nutritious diet, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Encourage individuals to enjoy the abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables available during the summer. Visit the Morris Heights Farmstand to pick up some fresh, local, and seasonal high quality produce. It is open every Wednesday from 11am-3pm at the corner of W Burnside and University Ave.

5. Be mindful of food safety: Educate individuals about proper food handling and storage to prevent foodborne illnesses. We emphasize the need to wash hands frequently, keep perishable foods refrigerated, and avoid cross-contamination during food preparation.

6. Prevent insect-borne illnesses: Provide information

on protection against mosquito bites, particularly in areas where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent. We encourage individuals to use insect repellents, wear protective clothing, and eliminate standing water sources to reduce mosquito breeding.

7. Practice water safety: Highlight the importance of water safety when swimming or participating in water activities. Encourage individuals to swim in designated areas with lifeguards, use proper flotation devices when needed, and be cautious of potential hazards in natural bodies of water. MHHC partners with the YMCA at the Le Central and Northeast Bronx locations, where you can find swimming classes for all ages.

8. Prioritize mental health: Remind individuals to take care of their mental well-being during the summer. Encourage them to maintain a balanced lifestyle, engage in activities they enjoy, connect with loved ones, and seek professional help if needed. MHHC offers behavioral health services—to make an appointment today call 718716-4400.

9. Stay updated on vaccinations: Promote awareness of

the importance of vaccinations and staying up to date with immunizations.

Encourage individuals to consult their healthcare providers to ensure they have received all necessary vaccinations, such as those for influenza or travel-related diseases. Many summer camps and programs require vaccinations by state of law—to schedule an appointment for your child to get vaccinations, call 718-716-4400.

10. Seek medical care when necessary: Remind individuals to seek medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms or conditions during the summer. Provide information on available healthcare services and emphasize the importance of early intervention for prompt treatment. MHHC’s urgent care center, Omega Health Urgent Care, is the best place to visit for any non-emergency health issues that may come up. Visit Omega Health Urgent Care at 1 W Burnside Ave, Bronx, NY 10453 Tuesday to Sunday from 8am8pm: for more information call 929-238-7400.

Maintaining good health at the beginning of the Summer sets the stage for a vibrant

and active season, full of fun. It allows us to enjoy the benefits of the outdoors, nourish our bodies with seasonal foods, manage allergies, support mental well-being, and prepare ourselves for the upcoming summer months. By prioritizing health during this time, we can make the most of the opportunities spring has to offer and enhance our overall quality of life. Stay tuned for more information on the annual National Healthcare Center Week celebration hosted by MHHC every August on our website mhhc.org or by following us on Instagram and Twitter @ mhhc_inc, Facebook @Morris Heights Health Center. We post community events, health and wellness related resources, and all updates related to MHHC and the community we serve daily.

Families to receive prepaid debit cards to buy healthy food options

One in three Bronx children face food insecurity, with inconsistent access to the healthy foods they need to live an active life. Building off screening efforts to identify patients who fall into this category, the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore (CHAM) is launching a new program in partnership with Stop & Shop and About Fresh, a platform that enables healthcare professionals to connect patients to healthy food.

The pilot program, called Fresh Connect, will provide prepaid debit cards to families to buy fresh fruit and vegetables at local Stop & Shop stores. Fresh Connect aims to ensure Bronx families have access to well-balanced, nutritional meals. This is being made possible with a $75,000 grant from Stop & Shop, the first major retailer in the country to partner with About Fresh.

Since 2013, About Fresh has designed and created

several programs to connect families with nutritious food. One of these programs, Fresh Connect, is a tech-enabled food prescription program that addresses health disparities by enabling healthcare providers to prescribe fresh produce, often referred to as a “food as medicine initiative.” Last year, Stop & Shop rolled out the program at its stores in Massachusetts and quickly expanded to all 400+ Stop & Shop locations across its entire northeastern

footprint. Since its launch, Fresh Connect cardholders have conducted tens of thousands of transactions at Stop & Shop already.

Now CHAM is the first New York area hospital to partner with Stop & Shop and offer the Fresh Connect program for Bronx families.

“We talk with our families regularly about the importance of a healthy diet, but we know that many of them have difficulty finding and affording high-quality produce,” said Suzette Oyeku, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.A.P., chief, Division of Academic General Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital at Montefiore and professor of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine. “Through this new partnership with Stop & Shop and About Fresh, we will be able to help families buy healthy foods and hope

to instill sustainable habits that can help decrease risks for chronic health conditions like diabetes, obesity and heart disease.”

Obesity and obesity-related conditions including high blood pressure and high cholesterol, have been on the rise for decades in the U.S. Research has shown associations between childhood obesity and food insecurity, and according to the CDC, among children aged 1-5 years old, one in three did not eat a daily fruit and half did not eat a daily vegetable.

“We are particularly excited about the opportunity to partner with CHAM to reach kids and families,” said Josh Trautwein, Co-founder and CEO of About Fresh. “Providing children with fresh produce through Fresh Connect will be a powerful way to anchor a lifetime love for healthy food.”

The six-month pilot program will support approximately 100 families identified by pediatricians and Community Health Workers (CHWs) through Montefiore’s social needs screening which takes place at its primary care locations, as well as some patients receiving care with CHAM’s Adolescent Eating Disorder Group. CHWs are local, trusted experts who screen families,

identify social challenges, and connect them to needed resources. The families selected for the Fresh Connect program will receive debit cards to buy $100 worth of fresh fruits and vegetables each month at Stop & Shop stores. This new program comes at a crucial time.

Over the past few months, millions of Americans who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits lost additional payments that were temporarily provided during the pandemic.

“As a major food retailer with a strong presence in New York City, we recognize the important role we play in improving access to healthy and affordable food for our communities,” said Gordon Reid, President of Stop & Shop. “We are proud to partner with the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore to be the first to bring the Fresh Connect prescription produce program to the Bronx to help our neighbors struggling with food insecurity gain more access to fresh, high-quality foods that support their health and wellbeing.”

Stop & Shop also recently supported CHAM with a $10,000 donation to assist with the renovation of a playroom that serves children with cancer.

Culinary Road

By Morris Gut

Summer bites, pieces for foodies

Imer Rraci and his veteran team have reimagined the former La Riserva, a lovely setting for the Italian classics.

Named after an island off the coast of Venice, Chef Avni turns out such winning dishes as: colorful Mozzarella Caprice; Eggplant Rollatini; Rigatoni Bolognese in a meat sauce; Risotto Di Funghi with porcini; Veal Martini; classic Rack of Lamb; and delicious Pollo Torcello, topped with applewood bacon and melted fresh mozzarella in a light bourbon mushroom sauce. Rraci has spent years working for the former Giambelli in Manhattan, and Valbella in Old Greenwich, CT. Open 7 days for dinner starting at 4:30 p.m. Bar/cocktails. Outdoor patio. Free parking. Torcello, 2382 Boston Post Road, Larchmont. 914-833-1118 www.torcellolarchmont.com

LENO’S CLAM BAR STILL GOING STRONG!

Here is a summer food stop worth making. I started going to Leno’s generations ago for their burgers, steamers, fried clams, grilled hotdogs, and corn on the cob swimming in butter. They have reopened for another season. It’s a wonderful no-frills experience. It has not changed much, now in its 3rd generation.

Road foodies may remember Leno’s Clam Bar, also known as ‘Greasy Nick’s’, along Pelham Road (Shore Road) in New Rochelle, just minutes from the Bronx line and Orchard Beach. It’s just down the road from lovely Glen Island Park. The owner’s family is related to comedian Jay Leno who lived in New Rochelle early in his ca-

reer.

Load up the metal table outside or take a seat at the indoor counter: their famous cheeseburgers with sautéed onions (a must!) and fries; dripping corn on the cob; fried clams with tartar sauce, hot dogs, and cheese dogs. Thank goodness for all those napkins. You get your own beverages inside, and it’s still on the honor system. Table service is very friendly and laid back. The first couple of bites bring back memories galore! As we sat there on a recent summer late afternoon, Greasy Nick’s fans driving cycles and Teslas were arriving from every direction. Leno’s Clam Bar is at 755 Pelham Road, New Rochelle. Open daily during the season. Indoor and outdoor seating. Phone: 914-636-9869.

MARIO’S AFTER VISITING NYBG!

A venerable Arthur Ave. Little Italy institution in the Bronx, Mario’s is marking over 103 years of operation. Regina Migliucci and her friendly staff run the show. To many, the flavorful sauces and gravies produced in this kitchen are the stuff of Italian ‘foodie heaven’. For those in the know, the old-world menu also holds many surprises. After a summer visit to the beautiful New York Botanical Garden, we stopped in for a bite. For starters enjoy the palate pleasing lagniappe of marinated carrots, and good crusty Arthur Ave. bread. We shared a delicious Margherita pizza,

Rigatoni Sorrentino, baked with tomato sauce, ricotta and mozzarella; and my granddaughter devoured the Penne alla Vodka. Also check out their Antipasti for 2, Spiedini, Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna, Braciola, Osso Buco. Mario’s, 2342 Arthur Ave., Bronx. 718-584-1188 www.mariosarthurave.org

WINGS FLY AT TUCK’D AWAY!

Chicken Wings are plentiful all over Westchester, but you must try them at Tuck’d. Wings fly out of the kitchen here. They come with a choice of 15 wet or dry sauces. Michael Cuozzo operates a friendly tavern on Yonkers Ave., Tuckahoe, that offers delightful comfort foods and reasonably priced Happy Hours. Additional specialties include Fried Calamari; Honey Chicken Wedge; house made Turkey Chili; juicy Burgers; Baby Back Ribs; Personal Pizzas; and Make Your Own Mac N Cheese. Happy hours: Monday thru Friday, 3-6 p.m. Saturdays to 5 p.m. Unlimited Wings & beer Wednesday nights from 7-9 p.m., $30. Weekend Brunch. Seasonal outdoor seating. Tuck’d Away Bar and Grill, 90 Yonkers Ave., Tuckahoe. Phone: 914-222-9162. www. tuckedaway90.com

handsomely renovated dining room or bar/lounge and peruse the menu over a good glass of wine. Diver Scallops, Steak Tartare, slabs of Canadian Bacon, Spaghetti Carbonara, Pappardelle with Short Rib Ragu, Zuppa di Pesce, even a Classic Burger. Carnivores should consider the Lamb Chops, Veal Chop, New York Strip Steak, or Porterhouse for two. Steller wine list. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Macelleria, 142 Fifth Ave., Pelham. 914-3652561 www.macelleriasteakhouse.com

JACK’S TO OPEN JILL’S IN MAMARONECK!

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(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: 914235-6591. Email: gutreactions@ optonline.net)

BACKYARD OPENS AT MAGNO’S GRILL!

NEW

WEEKEND BRUNCH AT MACELLERIA STEAKHOUSE!

A new bottomless brunch menu is being served Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring eggs & omelets, fresh salads, burgers and sandwiches. The regular menu will also be available. This high-end Italian steakhouse in Pelham serves classic cuts of prime beef and chops along with a hearty helping of Italian/American specialties. Be seated in the

Shane Clifford, proprietor of popular Jack’s Bar & Kitchen, a modern Irish American tavern in Eastchester, has a new restaurant in the works in Mamaroneck. Shane and his team are currently renovating the former Baby Dukes space (some may recall it as Lum Yen). It will be called Jill’s. If Jack’s is any indication, Jill’s will be serving up a winning combination of gastropub specialties with pizzazz, along with a good dose of hospitality. They hope to open by September.

Jill’s is located at 100 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, off the corner of Mamaroneck Ave. It is across from Harbor Island Park. Jill’s website is currently under construction. www.jackseastches-

It’s alfresco time at Magno’s Grill in New Rochelle. Look for their special Surf & Turf: Filet Mignon w portobello, Port wine sauce & Lobster Tail stuffed with crabmeat, shrimp, scallops in scampi sauce. This talented group also serves Jurassic Tomahawk Steaks, and a fi ne version of Parrillada, hearty mixed grill with chimichurri sauce. Chef/owner Angelo Magno had put his talents to work at such lauded kitchens at Tango Grill, Milonga and Gaucho Grill. He has joined forces with his family at his own 60-seat spot featuring fi ne versions of Italian and Argentinean classics. Additional house specialties: fresh Empanadas, Chicken or Veal Parmigiana, hearty Paella, and hefty Pork Osso Buco. Cocktail bar. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Municipal parking nearby. Reservations accepted. Magno’s Grill, 108 Centre Ave., New Rochelle. 914-235-0008 https://www.opentable.com/r/magnos-grill-new-rochelle