A police officer approaches heckler and pro-Palestinian activist Aldo Rafael Perez at a memorial service for slain NYPD Detective Didarul Islam outside of the 47th Precinct on Laconia Avenue on August 1.
Photos by David Greene
Five teens from group home found as one goes AWOL again
By David Greene
According to the NYPD, five female teenagers who disappeared from a group home between May 14 and June 7th—have all been found safe and unharmed and no criminality was suspected—but police now say that one of the teens is missing again.
According to police officials, Jailynn Gray, 16, disappeared from the Howe Avenue group home in Castle Hill at 2:58 a.m. on August 8. Officials describe Gray as being 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighing 130 pounds. Gray was last seen wearing white clothing.
As previously reported JyLee Connor, 14; Jayleen Suarez, 15; Dezi Whittingham, 15, and Yelena Baergea, 17, and Gray all disappeared from the group home in Castle Hill at different days and times over the course of 25 days.
On July 22, an official with
the NYPD confirmed that Baergea, 17, who was reported missing on June 7, was located on June 11. Connor disappeared on May 14 and was found on May 27. Suarez went missing from the home on May 23 and was located on May 31.
Gray first left the home on May 27 and was found on May 31. Whittingham was last seen on May 31 and was not located until July 12. Baergea was reported missing on June 7 and found on June 11.
An official at the NYPD was asked if the girls were returned to the home or if any criminality was involved, the official simply replied, “No criminality suspected.” The official offered no comment when asked about particulars on the investigation, prior police calls or previous missing teens from the home called “Rosalie Hall” which is run by Catholic Guardians.
As one teen was still missing
on June 23, one male resident of the block who was unaware of the missing teens, said of the group home, “Okay, I know which house you’re talking about, that’s a disgrace to the community to be honest with you.”
Asked what his problem with the home was, he replied, claiming, “The kids are out in the road late in the night, until 1 – 2 o’clock in the morning. It’s really a nice community, I’ve lived here for seven years now and there’s always a problem here.”
The resident claimed the teens come and go as they please, adding, “They have fights on the road, and the police are always there. I mean every week the police are here.”
According to their website, the home assists pregnant teens or teens who have recently given birth and are currently in the foster care system. The resident
was asked about that fact when he said, “They have kids, some of them. I see little kids and babies and stuff like that.” The resident concluded, “They have boyfriends, and they come over there in front of the property.”
On June 11, activist Heather Guerino of Crusaders for Children’s Rights stated that she has been complaining to local elected officials about foster agencies since 2023. She claimed, “These foster agencies that are getting millions of dollars in funding and they’re not providing the proper mental health services for the children and for the teens that are in their care.”
Guerino, who owns her own daycare center called, “Just Like Home Daycare,” since 1993, explained, “The problem is that when you complain about the children in your care, that they are not getting the services that they’re entitled to, the agency sets you up.”
“The agency will not just set me up,” Guerino continued, “but they’ll set up the foster parents. If a foster parent complains too much about why the child in my care hasn’t been to the dentist, why is this eight-year-old’s teeth rotten? The excuse the case worker will tell you is, ‘Oh, we haven’t had time to take them to the dentist.”
Guerino would like to see the Advocacy Center reopened, a needed intermediary between group homes, teachers and caregivers and families who had settled issues as they arise. Guerino says the center has been closed since the pandemic. According to their website, Catholic Guardians, which
was founded in 1887 and works with assistance from the Archdiocese of New York and had a budget of $83 million in 2023.
On July 23, the Bronx Voice contacted the communications department at the Archdiocese of New York, when “Caroline” stated, “You’ll have to speak to our director; he’s out of the office at the moment.” The Archdiocese of New York did not respond to repeated requests for comment while the teens were still missing back in June. Also on July 23, a call was placed to Catholic Charities which is the foster care arm of the archdiocese, the call went straight to voicemail and the inquiry was not returned.
On July 23, a source at the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) explained that current laws prohibit them from sharing information on specific cases. The source noted that ACS currently has 120 investigative consultants who are retired NYPD detectives who work closely with law enforcement officials who help to locate missing and vulnerable youth and teens who go missing.
ACS has previously stated that they have most recently investigated the neglect of 79,000 children and provides preventive services to 27,000 children daily. ACS also provides contractual services to 17,000 children through 44 foster agencies citywide.
Anyone who suspects child abuse is urged to call the New York State Central Register Child Abuse & Maltreatment Hotline 24 hours a day at 1 (800) 342-3720.
Parkchester mourns slain immigrant cop
By David Greene
A somber crowd estimated at 15,000 gathered in Parkchester to say goodbye to Detective First Grade Didarul Islam, 36, who was shot and killed after a deranged man entered a Midtown office building on July 28. Days after the first Muslim NYPD officer to be killed was laid to rest, a pro-Palestinian protester claimed he was arrested at Islam’s memorial—but the NYPD had no record of the arrest.
On July 31, members of multiple law enforcement agencies joined members of the NYPD, the Bangladeshi and Parkchester communities as they surrounded Islam’s family who silently walked behind the flag-draped casket. Officers carried Islam out of the Parkchester Jame Masjid on Virginia Avenue to the wait-
ing hearse on White Plains Road.
Elected officials in attendance included Governor Kathy Hochul, Mayor Eric Adams, Borough President Vanessa Gibson, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Congressman Adriano Espaillot, Congressman Ritchie Torres, Councilman Yousef Salaam and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
Also in attendance or observed in the crowd were Mayoral candidates: current front-runner Zohran Mamdani (Democrat); current Mayor Eric Adams (Independent); Bronx activist Irene Estrada (Conservative Party); Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa (Republican) and former governor Andrew Cuomo (Independent.)
During the service, Tish announced that Islam would be posthumously promoted from police officer to Detective. Tisch said of Islam, “He stepped into a new land and chose to become part of its promise, to believe in its dream, and he did believe in the American dream not as something handed down, but as something built with your own hands.”
According to the NYPD, Islam was off-duty but on an NYPD-approved assignment when he and three others were shot and killed as the deranged gunman with a semi-automatic weapon sought to kill employees of the National Football League. Police say the gunman walked into the office building and started shooting before eventually taking his own life.
Tisch mentioned that the day before Islam was killed,
he worked the Bronx Dominican Day Parade along the Grand Concourse, as this year’s parade was particularly violent as several people were shot, multiple fights broke out along the parade route and multiple arrests were reported.
Nearly a dozen attempts were made with neighbors of Islam’s tight-knit Bangladeshi community who refused to say anything about the man until one woman broke the silence. The woman said, “It was a shocking event for the neighborhood and the community, and I think even for people who didn’t know him, it was still really shocking to them.”
She added, “And as a Muslim officer, like people always see Muslims as the problem in a lot of places, so I feel it was eye-opening
The NYPD community, the Muslim community, the Parkchester community and the Bangladeshi community come together to pay their respects for Detective First Grade Didarul Islam, 36, along White Plains Road.
Pro-Palestinian activist arrested at memorial?
for people to see that it was a Muslim defending the city and I just think it shows a lot.”
WAS HECKLER ARRESTED AT MEMORIAL?
Meanwhile, a pro-Palestinian heckler claims he was arrested as he attempted to shout down U.S. Congressman Ritchie Torres, as Torres spoke at a memorial service for Islam held at the 47th Precinct on Laconia Avenue on August 1. Despite being provided with video of the arrest as well as a summons number—the Bronx Voice was told that the NYPD had no record of the arrest.
In video obtained by the Bronx Voice as well as a video posted to social media by longtime advocate and Puerto Rican Muslim Aldo Rafael Perez, shows Perez heckling Torres when he is quickly surrounded by several uniformed police officers. As he was being escorted out of the area of the memorial, Perez looked back at Torres at the podium and screamed, “Zionist!
You F---ing Zionist!”
In Perez’ video that was shot with the phone in “zoom” mode from when Perez was videotaping Torres moments earlier, it appeared that Perez was pushed into another officer.
At one point a scuffle ensued when an officer shouted “92” that was repeated by other officers that apparently referred to the NYPD’s Ten Code, as 10-92 is a call of a crime or an arrest.
Along with the video posted to Facebook of his apparent arrest, Perez, the recently named vice president of governmental affairs at the Muslim and Immigrant Coalition for Justice, wrote of Torres, “He has been an adamant supporter of Israel’s Zionist narcissistic regime that has paid him well over $1.5 million to continue a genocide in Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon.”
After being told by an
NYPD official that no arrests took place during Islam’s memorial. The offi cial was then sent the sourced video and a link to Perez’ video both showing the arrest as well as a photo of Perez’ summons. The offi cial never responded. A search of the New York State Unifi ed
Court System’s website also showed, “No cases found.” But noted that cases could take “weeks” to be listed in the database.
After repeated emails and calls to Torres’ Bronx offi ce, the Bronx Voice was unable to get a comment on the incident from Torres.
A photo of the Criminal Court Summons Aldo Rafael Perez says he received after he was detained by NYPD officers after he heckled Congressman Ritchie Torres during a memorial service outside of the 47th Precinct on August 1.
Photo courtesy of Aldo Rafael Perez
Community Op Ed Building, preserving, and planning 426,000+ units of housing to make our city more affordable
By Mayor Eric Adams
When I came into office, affordable housing was at the top of my agenda, and I didn’t need any studies or polls to tell me why. New Yorkers were telling me every day, every chance they got. I heard it at the store, on the street, and in the subway; I heard it from young adults and seniors; I heard it from the Bronx to Staten Island.
For me, this work is personal. Growing up on the edge of homelessness, I know what it feels like to worry about whether or not you will have a roof over your head at night. That’s a feeling that too many New Yorkers still feel, and that’s because too many administrations have kicked the can down on the road when it came to dealing with our housing crisis. When I came into office, I was clear that I was not going to let our administration continue to make excuses or tinker around the edges.
We brought a whole new approach to housing, using every tool at every level of government to create new homes across the entire city. Last week, during “Housing Week,” we showcased our success and laid out ambitious initiatives to double down on our efforts to create the housing New Yorkers need.
Thanks to historic investments and a relentless focus across our entire city government, our administration has shattered affordable housing records year after year. Now, we’re
adding another “year” to that list: Fiscal Year 2025. This past fiscal year, we produced the most affordable rental units in city history and the most homes for formerly homeless New Yorkers, too. We placed a record number of homeless New Yorkers into affordable homes
and connected a historic number of people to affordable housing through our city’s housing lottery.
And — for the first time — we revealed that when you put together all of housing initiatives, our administration has created, preserved, or planned over
426,000 homes for New Yorkers. This includes homes we’ve already built and homes we will build soon thanks to historic initiatives like “City of Yes,” the first citywide rezoning in 60 years, that will change our city’s housing rules and build a little more
Mayor Eric Adams announces that the city broke multiple records for producing and connecting New Yorkers to affordable homes in Fiscal Year (FY) 2025. 365 Shepherd Avenue.
Photo by Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office
housing everywhere.
When you put together all the records, the rezonings, and the real progress we have made, there is simply no other way to say it: This is the most pro-housing administration in New York City history!
But we know there is always more to do. That’s why I issued a historic executive order last year requiring every agency to identify city-owned sites that can become much-needed housing, and last week, we announced our vision to turn one of those sites, an abandoned airport in Queens, into 3,000 new homes. From old office buildings to sanitation garages, we are turning the outdated properties of the past into the homes of the future.
We’re creating more homes and we’re helping connect more peo-
ple to those homes. To do that, last week, we also announced that we will double the percentage of affordable homes in our housing lottery with a preference for veterans and city workers. Public servants sacrifice for our city every day, and this new policy will ensure they can continue to live in the city that they love. Additionally, last week, we officially changed our city’s senior affordable housing program to build more family-sized units. Lots of older New Yorkers want to live with their adult children or livein aids, and with this new policy, we will help them do it. No matter how old you are or what job you have, our administration wants every New Yorker to find a place they call home.
“Housing Week” represented more than just the records we’ve
Building, preserving, and planning 426,000+ units of housing to make our city more affordable
broken or the progress we’re making every day; it represented our commitment to every New Yorker. Our administration has focused relentlessly on creating more homes, connecting more peo-
ple to homes, and helping keep more people in the homes they already have — it’s what New Yorkers need, and it’s what they deserve. That focus has delivered results three years in a row, and we’re not stopping there. We know that a house is more than just a roof with four walls — it is the key to unlocking the American Dream, and it is the key to keeping it alive.
Cuomo rolls out public safety plan that would expand controversial NYPD unit
This article originally appeared in The City.
By Katie Honan
Andrew Cuomo rolled out a new campaign logo and his new public safety proposal Monday, including boosting police officer pay and other recruitment initiatives. He also proposed expanding a specialty unit his main rival, Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, wants to disband.
The former governor, who is running for mayor as an independent in November after losing the primary in June, presented everything sitting behind a desk and accompanied by a slideshow, a throwback to his COVID-era briefings from Albany.
Cuomo’s public safety initiative would cost an estimated $250 million over five years and looks to add 5,000 new officers to the NYPD with a $15,000 sign-on bonus and thousands of dollars in other “retention incentives.”
The increased pay, along with work done to improve police and community relations, would make people “excited to join,” Cuomo said.
“You’re joining the NYPD, it is the finest police force in
the United States of America — be proud,” he said.
“You’re lucky if you can get recruited, and that’s the way it was and that’s the way it should be.”
Cuomo also called for adding officers to the Strategic Response Group, a specialized unit that responds to major emergencies and protests.
Mamdani has called for the SRG to be disbanded, noting in a post on social media seven months ago that it has cost the city “millions in lawsuit settlements and brutalized countless New Yorkers exercising their first amendment rights,” while accusing them of harassing and arresting protesters.
In contrast, Cuomo said the
SRG “should be increased.”
“They are key — key to counterterrorism, key to mass protests. And it’s only going to get worse, not better.”
Under his plan, there would be 400 new SRG officers over four years and expand where they patrol, including transit hubs and “high-risk public spaces.”
Focus on the unit increased after last week’s deadly shooting in Midtown.
Police say a gunman drove from Las Vegas to the building housing the offices of the National Football League and killed four people, including NYPD officer Didarul Islam who was working as an off-duty guard in the building.
SRG officers responded to the shooting, where the suspect shot himself on a higher floor of the building.
“I think it would be a tremendous mistake to disband them,” Cuomo said.
At a press conference last week, Mamdani said that the SRG’s role in emergencies like the Midtown shooting was appropriate, but criticized their role in responding to protests.
“What we saw on Monday was an example of how we would want a response to look like to an emergency,” he said.
Mayor Eric Adams, who is also running as an independent in November, criticized Cuomo’s plan to expand SRG if there wasn’t a specif-
ic reason for it.
“When you deploy police personnel there should be a reason behind it, so what is his reason to increase the number?” he told reporters outside City Hall on Monday.
“Because SRG comes with specific skills and talents that you want to use, you don’t want SRG riding up on our subways just doing routine patrol.”
At his Monday press conference, Cuomo also promised to roll out more plans and proposals for affordability, along with a new blue, orange and white logo that is meant to evoke both the Statue of Liberty’s crown and the sun, according to a spokesperson.
MHHC (Morris Heights Health Center) pulled out all the stops on August 6th, transforming Burnside Avenue into a full-blown festival in celebration of National Health Center Week 2025, and the Bronx showed up in style.
More than 400 community members walked through the closed-off streets under the summer sun as MHHC hosted its annual Patient Appreciation Day—and if you weren’t there, you missed out on a Bronx block party like no other.
This year’s National Health Center Week theme— “Celebrating the Past, Present, and Future”— was brought to life in the most vibrant way possible. From toddlers to seniors, laughter, connection, and care filled the air.
The day featured a bouncy house that never emptied, a magician who left jaws on the pavement, and an abundance of sweet treats — cotton candy, snow cones, smoothies, and popcorn flowed freely for attendees of all ages.
But amidst all the fun, the event delivered something deeper: a powerful show of unity and care.
MHHC President & CEO Mari G. Millet proudly welcomed Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gib-
Cotton candy, check-ups & community: MHHC’s Patient Appreciation Day brings the Bronx together
gan. “We are here because we owe you—our patients, our neighbors—our deepest thanks. You’ve trusted us with your health, your families, and your stories. That trust means everything to us.”
the day had something for everyone, including a few impromptu dance-offs. For many, it was more than a celebration. It was a reminder of what healthcare can look like when humanity leads the way.
The New York Public Library, MetroPlus Health, American Cancer Society, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, NYC Bronx Community Board 5, Molina Healthcare, VNS Health & SelectHealth.
son, who not only spoke passionately about MHHC’s long-standing commitment to the Bronx but also presented the organization with a Citation of Merit in recognition of its impact. Gibson highlighted MHHC’s role as a vital pillar in the community, praising its cultural sensitivity, patient dignity, and the deep compassion it brings to every interaction.
Her words underscored a powerful truth: MHHC is more than just a healthcare provider, a trusted and indispensable partner in the lives of Bronx families.
Community-based organizations lined the street with health and wellness information, giveaways, and cultural goods, while MHHC staff offered free screenings for blood pressure, glucose, and other health indicators, ensuring that Patient Appreciation Day didn’t just look good, it felt good too.
Mari G. Millet, whose remarks left a lasting impact on the crowd.
“We aren’t here today just to throw a party,” Millet be-
She continued: “At MHHC, we don’t just care for our patients—we care about them. We walk with you through your struggles, we celebrate your victories, and we show up—day in and day out— because we believe in you. This community is our purpose. And today, we honor that bond.”
The cheers said it all.
From toddlers dancing to DJ beats to elders chatting under shaded tents,
MHHC also proudly welcomed all its community partners and sponsors, who not only supported but also attended the celebration, including: NYC Health, iCare Family Pharmacy, Bridge Builders, Community Partnership Day Care Council of New York, Fidelis Care, NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development, Davidson Community Center Inc.,
As National Health Center Week continues, MHHC’s message rings loud and clear: Healthcare is a right, and community is the foundation.
Patient Appreciation Day was the proof—one joyful bounce, one heartfelt word, and one smiling face at a time.
Health Matters From setback to comeback: Helping older adults recover after a fall
By Kent Ye Physical Therapist, VNS Health
Falls can be life-changing—impacting both body and mind. Each year, more than 14 million adults aged 65 and older report having a fall—and once you’ve had one fall, the risk of falling again doubles. Falls are the leading cause of injury in older adults, and while the physical toll can be tough, the emotional toll can hit just as hard.
As a physical therapist working with my patients in their homes, I’ve seen how a single fall can start a vicious cycle: After someone experiences a fall, they become overly cautious and try to avoid moving, worried they’ll fall again just doing everyday things. That fear can prevent them from getting help or support and may also result in their becoming sedentary, all of which may actually increase their risk for another fall.
As I’ve seen firsthand, though, there are ways you can break that cycle. Here are a few tips I share with my patients who’ve had a fall on how to “get back on your feet”—and stay there safely.
Focus on the Positive Falls are extremely common. And while people might feel isolated or even embarrassed after a fall,
it’s important to remember you’re not alone. When I work with someone who’s recovering from a fall, I always encourage starting with small wins. A small win might mean practicing how to get out of bed more safely, or doing light movements around the house to build strength and balance. Progress doesn’t have to be big or fast—it is more about staying committed. Every small step adds up, and those little victories can go a long way toward restoring confidence.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
I always tell my patients: “Before you were able to walk, you had to learn to stand.” After a fall, becoming active again can feel overwhelming, but movement—even in small increments— is so import-
Your 2025 care goals mid-year check-up – Things to consider
By Dr. Steven Angelo, Chief Medical Officer
If your 2025 New Year’s resolution was to improve your health and well-being, and you have not made as much progress as you had hoped, it is not too late to refocus your efforts.
Review your list of health goals
Maybe your plan was to eat better, be more active, be more social, or just feeI better and more energized. So, make a list, be specific and establish a timeline. And bring this with you when you go for your annual wellness visit or your next care provider visit.
Plan your care visits
Make a list of the care appointments you will need this year – but have not yet scheduled. This includes your annual wellness visit, screenings, dental and vision appointments, and vaccinations. Then start making those appointments. Care providers may be able to schedule appointments months in advance, which may offer you more scheduling options.
Prepare for your appointments
Jot down notes on how you’re currently feeling,
any concerns you have, and your health care goals. By doing this, you can help ensure that you remember important information to share with your doctor, which can help make the most of your time together.
Catalog your “medicine cabinet”
Prepare a list of all medications you are taking. Also, don’t forget to include all vitamins and supplements. Share this with your primary care provider at your annual wellness visit or your next care provider visit. NOTE: Take care in disposing of expired or unneeded items. Go to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration site for some tips.
Review your benefits
In addition to covering wellness visits, tests, medicines and other medical care, see what other benefits may be included in your health insurance plan that may help you
meet your health goals, including gym benefits and mental health support, and financial support for food and other necessities.
Want more health information
Ask your care provider for information, specifically around topics that were discussed during your visit. Go to your health insurer’s website for educational and benefits information. UnitedHealthcare members
may go to www.unitedhealthcare.com. Search the Web for health and care information from “trusted sites,” which may include academic medical institutions, health departments, and health-related non-profit institutions.
Check in with yourself quarterly
Take out your “health goals” list and your care provider’s health recommendations.
Have you made prog-
ress toward these health goals? Perhaps you wanted to address dental or vision problems, lose weight, exercise more or focus on your mental health. If you have made progress, keep going. If not, it is not too late to start toward reaching your health goals. Go to UnitedHealthcare’s “There’s no time like now to schedule an annual wellness visit” for more information.
Simple steps to improve brain health
By Mirnova E. Ceide, MD, Psychiatrist, Montefiore Einstein
There are around 55 million people living with Alzheimer's and other kinds of dementia across the world. Research suggests that brain changes that eventually lead to dementia probably start 20 years prior – meaning there is a window to slow or even prevent these changes.
A committee of experts on dementia and brain health, the Lancet Commission, estimated that 45% of the world’s dementia cases could be prevented by changing 14 different risk factors. So, how do we make meaningful changes?
The 6 Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine can help us focus on what’s important:
1) a whole-food, plant-predominant eating pattern
2) physical activity
3) restorative sleep
4) stress management
5) avoidance of risky substances (smoking, alcohol, etc.)
6) positive social connections
To get started, begin with the pillar that seems easiest to you. Make changes, and when you are successful, add another pillar.
Stacking habits together can help. Try doing something that touches a few
pillars like salsa dancing (social dancing) or pickle ball - which is exercise but also stress management and can build social connections. Learning new routines, skills and steps is cognitively stimulating.
Recruit a friend or family member. Change is hard when you go alone. Try new recipes with grandkids or take weekly walks with your friends down the street. Having company as you try new things can help you reach your goals.
Practice curiosity & self-compassion
Self-compassion is offering yourself the same kindness, understanding, and acceptance that you would offer a close friend. Building new habits takes time, and there may be setbacks. Celebrate your accomplishments and be curious, trying to figure out the reason why, if you go off track.
Try the MIND diet
Research suggests the MIND Diet (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) can potentially improve cardiovascular health, brain health and prevent declines in memory and thinking.
Adding foods like leafy greens and other vegetables, berries, nuts, beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, and olive oil is key to this style of eating. Limiting red meat, saturated fat (like butter) and alcohol is another element. But you don’t have to eat Mediterranean flavors to get the benefits.
Food is cultural and personal - it should suit your taste preferences. Start with one of these suggestions to tweak your meals:
• Think of your favorite recipes and add 2 cups of vegetables like greens,
carrots, corn, mushrooms, peppers, or anything you like
• Swap out animal proteins (these tend to be high in statured fat) with plant proteins like chickpeas, lentils or tofu. Personally, my family loves a Jamaican curry, swapping out the traditional goat for chicken or chickpeas is a nice option
• Replace a refined grain like white rice for something like brown rice, quinoa or whole wheat couscous. Try bread made with whole grains like injera with teff or whole wheat roti
Whole Foods vs. Ultra Processed Foods
Good nutrition comes from eating whole foods and minimizing consumption of ultra processed foods. Whole food is simple and natural.
Corn is a good example: corn on the cob (a summer favorite!), in a can or frozen is a whole food. But cereal and chips are ultra processed. Combining activities: Going to the store to buy the ingredients is physical activity, learning a new recipe and cooking the meal yourself is cognitive stimulation and sharing meals with family or friends provides social connection. These steps come together to help build a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Trying out these pillars can be stimulating, socially engaging and highly rewarding. Enjoy these new activities with family and friends – and spend some time doing things that are good for your brain, your mind and body, too!
From setback to comeback: Helping older adults recover after a fall
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10
ant and key to recovery. I start wherever my patients are—some may already be walking, while others may not be able to stand just yet. Wherever that starting point is, we move forward together. This work should always be done with the support of your doctors and clinicians, because recovery isn’t a
one-size-fits-all. We assess your movements, make sure they’re safe, and build from there.
Set Up for Safety
Ensuring you have a safe and supportive home environment lays the groundwork for recovery, and is also one of the best ways to prevent future falls. Making sure your living space works
for you and your needs is a team effort. Physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, social workers, and others all have a role to play in assessing a person’s strengths, challenges, and home environment in order to figure out the best approach to support safe, confident movement at home. Often this may involve making small, practical changes—like clearing clutter, removing or securing rugs that might otherwise slip underfoot, improving lighting, and installing grab bars and other mobility aids, all of which can make a huge difference in terms of safety.
Falls are tough, but with the right support, manageable goals—including slow and steady progress in terms of movement— and a safe home environment, it’s possible to regain the independence and confidence you may have lost.
The most important thing to know is that you don’t have to do it alone— whether it’s your PT, OT, a nurse, or a supportive family member or friend, know that we are there to support you every step of the way!
For more information on how you can receive rehabilitation therapy at home, visit vnshealth.org
Lung cancer identification and treatment improves in the Bx
By Neel P. Chudgar, M.D., cancer surgeon at Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center and assistant professor of cardiothoracic and vascular surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. — largely because it is diagnosed at a late stage. The five-year survival rate for stage I or II lung cancer is over 65%, compared to just 8% for later-stage III and IV disease, according to the American Lung Association. In the Bronx, historically patients have been diagnosed at more advanced and less curable stages than people in other places in the U.S.
To turn the tide in our community, in 2022
Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center (MECCC) ramped up the lung cancer screening program and developed the Follow-Up Asessment of Lung Nodules (FAST) Clinic. As a result, the rate of detecting patients with stage 1 lung cancer in the Bronx has risen from 25.8% to 37.2%.
Lung nodules are unexpectedly found during imaging, like an X-ray or chest scan (CT scans), being done for a different reason, like trauma, chest pain, or cardiac workups. In fact, nearly one in every three CT scans performed in the U.S. each year will identify a lung nodule, which appears as a small shadow. This adds up to over
1.5 million incidental lung nodules found each year; however, far too often, lung nodules are overlooked, not tracked, or never communicated to the patient. While most nodules are benign, some are the earliest detectable stage of lung cancer.
The MECCC FAST Clinic care team tracks and manages screening detected and incidental nodules and follows up with patients rapidly to ensure they receive timely and appropriate follow-up care. Since its opening, the clinic has received more than 1,000 referrals, and of these referrals, more than 80 patients have been diagnosed with lung cancer.
Early detection, through the monitoring of lung nodules found in
CT scans or lung cancer screening, makes surgery to remove cancer and preserve lung tissue more likely for more patients. This type of surgery involves using small incisions, short hospital stays, and reduced down-time, so patients return to their normal activities sooner. By removing the cancer, we often cure the patient without additional treat-
ment, depending on each patient’s case.
As we approach World Lung Cancer Day on August 1st, it’s critical to realize that incidental lung nodules are a chance to detect lung cancer at earlier stages—but only if we act on them. If you’ve had a chest CT scan for any reason, ask about your imaging, especially if you’ve had one in the emergency room. Follow
up on the results, even if you were told everything was clear.
As a community, let’s continue to improve the earlier diagnosis of lung cancer. Anyone can reach MECCC’s FAST Clinic by emailing lungnodule@montefiore.org, or for those with a history of cigarette smoking, can contact the Lung Cancer Screening Program for by calling 718-430-3613.
Culinary Road
By Morris Gut
More Summer culinary encounters
Go for a stroll through the lovely New York Botanical Garden. The beautiful Van Gogh presentation is ongoing through the Fall. There are Dining Pavilions near the Enid Haupt Pavilion: the casual family friendly Pine Tree Café or the more formal farm-to-table Hudson Garden Grill. Changing specialties include Sweet Corn Chowder, Murray’s Chicken Cobb, Hudson Burger, and Salmon Vera Cruz. For info: 646-6277711, or 718-817-8700. www.nybg.org/visit/dining/ FARMERS MARKET AT NYBG!
The Farmers Market at New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx is every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will run through October. Admission and parking are free. Enter the market at the Mosholu Gate. www.nybg.org/event/ farmers-market/ ADRIATIC FLAVORS AT DUBROVNIK
Founded by Jerry Tomic some 12 years ago, Dubrovnik has evolved into a dynamic Michelin-recognized restaurant. The region’s first restaurant devoted to the cuisine of Croatia, a multi-level 85-seat establishment with a lovely seasonal outdoor patio, state of the art temperature-controlled wine cellar, al fresco wood fire rotisserie BBQ, and lush seasonal al fresco garden. Manager Matija will be your guide.
Talented chefs man the kitchen and they will transport you to the beautiful Adriat-
ic in flavorful style. Seafood is a specialty. Octopus Salad, Adriatic Cuttlefish Risotto, Whole Mediterranean Branzino, Seafood & Saffron Pasta, Roasted Cornish Hen. Happy hours: 3-6 pm. Valet evenings. Dubrovnik, 721 Main Street, New Rochelle. 914-637-3777 www.dubrovnikny.com
IRISH AMERICAN WITH PIZZAZZ AT JACK’S BAR & KITCHEN
Their Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich is a winner. Owner Shane Clifford and his staff have been drawing a fine crowd. Jack’s offers an enhanced Irish/American tavern menu on steroids. The best way to describe it. Generous specialties coming out of Chef Brendan Donohoe’s kitchen include decadent Short Rib Mac N’ Cheese; Lamb Lollipops; Burrata Pizza out of their woodfired oven; Guinness braised Short Ribs; Woodfired Pizzas and big juicy Burgers. Check out their decadent Grilled Cheese Menu. The full Irish Breakfast at brunch is awesome. The staff could not be more friendly. Open daily. Weekend brunch. TVs. Al fresco seating. The same team operate Jill’s in Mamaroneck, across from Harbor Island Park. Municipal parking; free evenings. Jack’s Bar, 219 Main St., Eastchester. 914-652-7650 www.jackseastchester.com
ROBUST ITALIAN OUT OF A DINER AT TRATTORIA VIVOLO
Recently cited by Forbes Magazine, Chef-owner and personable host Dean Vivolo serves his robust regional Italian cuisine out of a vintage din-
er just across from Harrison's Metro-North station. Sit at the counter, tuck into a booth, or take a table in the rear greenhouse and enjoy the surprising contemporary and traditional flavors emanating from his kitchen: tasty thin-crusted pizza; Crostino di Polenta topped with wild mushrooms, gorgonzola, and tomato sauce; Grilled Lamb Chops; Braised Lamb Shanks; Lasagna Bolognese al Forno; and wonderful Linguine alle Vongole. Fine wine list. Sparkling lights in the evenings. The outdoor patio is now open. Free parking. Trattoria Vivolo, 301 Halstead Ave., Harrison. 914-835-6199 www.trattoriavivolo.com
WINGS FLY AT THE BEECHMONT
I like vintage pubs and taverns. They have so many stories to tell. They are a living history of the communities they serve often filled with nostalgia and memorabilia. Also enjoy the good pour from the bar, hearty finger foods, wings, big juicy burgers and fries. I recently got back to the Beechmont Tavern, across from IONA University in New Rochelle. It has been around since 1928, they say, and proprietor Rob Hayes, a former bus boy and IONA student, has had it since 2018. We ordered their popular traditional chicken wings, a Gael burger and fries, and a summery goat cheese and pear salad. We shared. All were great. A special shout out to the staff. They were friendly and on the spot. We will be back. Beechmont Tavern, 750 North Ave., New Rochelle. Open 7 days. 914-
636-9533 www.beechmonttavern.com
INDIAN STREET FOODS AT MUMBAI KATTA
Anita Gawde is a dynamo. At one moment she is greeting entering patrons, the next she disappears into the kitchen, the next she is on the dining room floor touting her menu: the tasty street foods of regional India. Anita and her husband Jayant Gawde are marking their 1st. Anniversary with vibrant specialties plated with pizzazz. We recently feasted on a tasty tour of savory small plates: Samosa Chaat, Sabudana Vada, delectable Chicken Kathi Roll, ending with their delicious Chicken Masala and crispy crusted Shrimp Fry. The Kesar Phirni, their version of rice pudding, was a festive dessert. Anita and her friendly staff will help you through the menu. Take-out and catering. Mumbai Katta, 227 Westchester Ave., Port Chester. 516953-3265 www.mumbaikatta. com
CLASSICS AT TORCELLO
Imer Rraci and his veteran team reimagined the former
La Riserva into a lovely setting for the Italian classics. Named after an island off the coast of Venice, this kitchen turns out such winning dishes as: colorful Mozzarella Caprice; Risotto Di Funghi with porcini; Linguine alle Vongole; Veal Chop Parmigiana; classic Rack of Lamb; and delicious Pollo Torcello, topped with applewood bacon and melted fresh mozzarella in a light bourbon mushroom sauce. Rraci had spent years working for the former Giambelli in Manhattan, and Valbella in Old Greenwich, CT. Open 7 days for dinner starting at 3:30 p.m. Bar/cocktails. Happy hours Wed. through Fri. 3:30-6 pm. Outdoor patio. Free parking. Torcello, 2382 Boston Post Road, Larchmont. 914-833-1118 www.torcellolarchmont.com
(Morris Gut is a restaurant 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. Email: gutreactions@optonline.net )
