A Bronx man couldn’t wait for his Big Mac, so he pulled out a knife, hopped behind the counter and helped himself. The whole bizarre moment was captured on video including the Burger Bandit stuffing burgers and McNuggets in his pants.
At around 4:30 pm on December 5, a man was at the counter of a McDonalds at 101 East 170 Street in Mount Eden. Surveillance video shows a man wearing a face mask with
a cigarette dangling out of his mouth standing in front of the counter. The man appears to get agitated while talking to the cashier. He is then seen hopping over the counter and
walking toward the food. McDonalds employees approach to stop him and then back off once the man shows them a knife, cops say. With the employees looking on helpless, the suspect then starts stuffing food in the pockets of his pants. Cops say the knife-wielding man stuffed a 20 piece-chicken and 6-piece Chicken McNugget in his pants as well as two McDouble
cheeseburgers. After stuffing the burgers and nuggets in his pants, he hopped back over the counter and casually walked out the door. No employees or customers were injured. The suspect was last seen wearing a red, white and blue doo rag, face mask, gray winter coat with a baseball jersey underneath with the word “Astros” across the chest with the Number 21.
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.
According to a police captain in New Rochelle, multiple law enforcement agencies are looking for Christopher Corcoran, 61, a janitor who spent the last two decades tending to the halls and classrooms at DeWitt Clinton High School in Jerome Park.
According to everyone involved, Corcoran left his home on Circuit Road in New Rochelle at 12:15 a.m. on November 16. Corcoran was captured for the last time on his building's surveillance cameras.
Corcoran is a white male, 5 foot 5, 115 pounds, with blue eyes and a grey goatee. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a midlength green canvas jacket with a hood, royal blue pants, and black shoes.
New Rochelle Police Department Captain J. Collins Coyne told the Bronx Voice that his detectives have so far sought and received assistance in the case from the NYPD, the New York State Police and the NYPD Harbor Patrol as well as "different multi agencies" during their search for Corcoran. Coyne said, "It's a pretty extensive search we've done for him.”
Coyne continued, "We've done extensive searches, wooded areas all the way through the Bronx." He added, "Not only did a lot of calls
go out, but a lot of actual leg work of the detectives going to various places looking for potential video and interviewing witnesses, so I'm pretty sure the NYPD is fully aware, it's just a 40,000-man department with a whole host of problems, (the information on Corcoran) it is out there.”
Chris' girlfriend "Ellen" a resident of Morris Park recalled talking to Chris the night he disappeared, "We had a good chat. We made plans for the weekend, and he said, 'I love you and I'll talk to you tomorrow.' And the next day he didn't show up anywhere," including his job at the school. Ellen continued, "That's how we found out, his co-worker called his mother, because he never misses work and he didn't call, so the guy was concerned. It's a nightmare.”
Ellen said that Corcoran left his home without taking his car and added that police told her that his last two calls were to her and his mother. Police told her the phone was last pinged along Pelham
1-month.
Road in New Rochelle, but it had not been found.
"This is the most horrible situation you can be in; it is so horrible not knowing... Where could he be? There was no activity on his bank card, I hope they're checking it regularly. They're checking hospitals. Just no trace of him. It's crazy, really.”
Ray Pultinas, who taught English at Clinton for over two decades and currently runs the James Baldwin Outdoor Learning Center on the Sedgwick Avenue side on the school's campus, said of Corcoran, "Very friendly, likeable and sweet man - known him for at least 10
years, maybe more.”
Pultinas recalled, "He swept classrooms and also did some outdoor maintenance on the grounds. He's a hard and honest worker, no slouch." He added, "We've had many, many conversations over the years. He loved Rock and Roll, grew up and lived in New Rochelle... my prayers go out to his family and friends - I'm sure he is missed by fellow staff of Clinton campus - he was known and liked by everyone.”
If anyone sees Corcoran, they are asked to call the New Rochelle Police Department at (914) 654-2300.
The body of a man was discovered in the woods of Van Cortlandt Park. Officials say he looked like he had been dead for several days.
An unnamed police official stated that the male, between 50 and 60-years-old was discovered at 2:25 p.m. on December 17, in a wooded section on the southwest corner of Van Cortlandt Park, along Mosholu Parkway North and West Gun Hill Road.
The official said, "Police
responded to a 911 call of an unconscious person...
Upon arrival officers were informed a male adult was found unconscious and unresponsive."
The police official added that EMS members pronounced the victim deceased at the scene.
A pair of Parks Department vehicles were pulled off on the shoulder of the roadway with several police vehicles as well as two vehicles from the Office of the City's Medical Examiner (OCME.)
At 5:35 p.m. flashlights emerged from the woods as at least two detectives, two police officers and two employees of OCME appeared from the woods with the victim, who was inside a black plastic bag and being wheeled out on the gurney.
The police source noted
that the incident does not appear suspicious at this time and the OCME will determine the exact cause of death. The identification of the man is pending family notification.
In 2017 Eugene Villani, a homeless man confessed to the 2013 stabbing murder of Efijenio Deletorr, 61, who was found dead along the Putnam Trail, next to the park's golf course on June 27, 2013.
On January 5, 2020, the body of Armando Amaro Es-
pindola was discovered in the southeast section of the park at East Gun Hill Road and Jerome Avenue. The Office of the City's Medical Examiner determined that Espindola died of an acute intoxication by the combined effects of alcohol and cocaine.
On December 14, 2020, Parks Department employees discovered the badly decomposed body of a man discovered in the woods between a wall of the Croton Water Filtration Plant and the Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course.
By Dan Gesslein
A pair of gunmen robbed a Baychester gas station of cash and cigarettes at gunpoint and the whole incident was caught on camera.
At around midnight on December 15, two men walked into a gas station at 1945 Bartow Avenue just outside Co-op City. Surveillance video caught one of the men pulling out a handgun as they entered the store.
One man held the employee at bay while pointing the gun at him. The other went behind the counter and removed $1,900 from the till. He then took out a black garbage bag and began stuffing it with packs of cigarettes. Cops say they stole about $1,100 worth of smokes.
The robbers then fled on foot.
No one was injured. Both men wore dark clothing and face masks.
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.
We all know the stereotype of the “perfect” winter holiday season—family coming together from across the country, extravagant gifts, huge meals with everyone around the table, decorations, parties, social gatherings, and of course the requisite perfect winter weather.
However, life is a lot more complicated than a Hallmark holiday movie (for starters, how DOES the hair of those Hallmark movie heroines always stay so perfect in the snow?).
The truth is, for many people the holidays can be a trigger for feelings of grief, loneliness, stress, and fatigue. As the National Alliance on Mental Illness found, 64% of those with a mental illness say the holidays exacerbated their symptoms, while three out five Americans report that their mental health is negatively impacted by the holidays.
It’s important to remember that what might be the “most wonderful time of the year” for some is the toughest time of year for others—and that if you do feel this way, you are not
alone.
Signs and symptoms of the “holiday blues” can take many forms. They may include a change in eating or sleeping habits, loss of interest in daily activities and selfcare, or having negative thoughts about yourself. While these feelings are not uncommon, they aren’t something you should suffer through alone. Here are a few tips that may help lessen the complicated feelings associated with the holiday season.
Real life is not a picture-perfect holiday card,
and that’s okay! End-ofyear holidays can often cause people to focus on negative moments from the past year, making this a particularly tough period. Some people may also feel more isolated or lonely during this time, perhaps because they’re more homebound due to illness or mobility issues, or they had a loved one who recently passed away.
Feelings of sadness or “not belonging” often accompany big life changes, but there is no need to be ashamed or isolate yourself further because of these feelings. Some older adults may not speak up about what they’re going through because they don’t want to be a “burden.” Sharing with others the reality that you are feeling low is a tough but brave choice, and it can help place you on the road to feeling better. If it is your loved one who is behaving different, on the other hand, and you think they may need help, your instincts are probably right. Reach out to them and encourage them to seek help and connect with community resources.
As we age, things invariably change, and it can be challenging to accept that things we once loved and enjoyed doing have become more difficult or even impossible. For example, a decline in physical or mental ability may make holiday events stressful or difficult to celebrate. It is important to be mindful of what’s actually possible for you or a loved one to do during the holidays, and build your plans around that—rather than strive for an unreachable ideal.
It’s important to give yourself a break and be as kind to yourself as possible
during the holidays. Pay special attention to your eating, sleeping and downtime, and make a strategy for potentially stressful times. Keep in mind that you can pick and choose what you can or want to do. You can always say “no” to that request to bake five dozen cookies or go to three parties in one week, especially if you know it would cause you additional stress. Activities with others can be simple and enjoyable, like taking a short walk with someone, or watching your favorite movie, or eating a special comfort food. Try to avoid the pressure of constantly doing what others choose
The holidays can feel packed with competing demands, between get-togethers for work, family and friends - even days off are busy. With rising costs, we feel pressure to balance finances and family obligations. Sometimes the holidays bring tough emotions, as this time of the year can evoke strong memories for those who have lost loved ones. Stressors around the holidays can look different for each person, but healthy coping skills can be helpful in managing different stressors.
Prioritize Activities that Bring Joy & Meaning Comfort and joy can be your
focus this season. Spend your time and energy on rituals and routines that build connections like: making a favorite dish as family, decorating as a group, playing outside or going on a walk together before a celebratory meal.
* Focusing on connection can help us set aside the worries and pressures of gift giving and gathering that can cloud our view of the holidays.
* Research tells us that rituals and routines provide us with structure, predictability and security.
* Family rituals also provide children with a sense of identity and belonging. This is a great time to share and learn more about your family’s history,
points of pride, culture, values or religion. Understanding family history and traditions can enhance self-esteem and emotional wellbeing.
This year, your family may be asking you to travel or stay with them for extended periods –you may even feel pulled to do this as the pandemic changed our holiday routines.
* Take a moment to think of what you need to make this a joyful season. You might want to reserve down time to be on your own and maybe time to be 1:1 with your spouse or children.
* Next, see if their plan works with your vision. If it is beyond
what you can offer socially or financially – that's ok. Be transparent and set clear limits on what you feel comfortable offering.
* Respect the boundaries you set and uphold them. Saying yes, when we don’t have the time, energy or money can lead to further exhaustion and stress. Remember to use self-compassion at these times, speak to yourself as you would to a friend.
Perfection is A Trap Sometimes we get caught up in planning and the details before a big event, we don’t pause to enjoy the moment. Let go of focusing on the perfect dish, getting the perfect gift, or hosting a flawless gathering - and
instead focus your attention on maximizing the fun times with your people.
* Taking on more than you have time for means there is no time to relax, sing or joke around – downtime is what creates special moments and memories.
* Prep yourself ahead of time, know that one thing might not go flawlessly and embrace that – you can laugh it off or focus on how the good moments outweigh the bad.
* While you’re getting ready for the day try setting an intention. Say to yourself: my intention for today is ---. Some examples include: to embrace the joy of the moment or to be present even if things go imperfectly.
At MHHC, the holidays signify a special time to create magic for the youngest members of the community. This December MHHC, along with its helpful team of “reindeers” traveled all over the Bronx to spread holiday cheer!
Several MHHC locations were converted into winter wonderlands where the toy giveaways were held! Every event featured a guest appearance by Santa who greeted all the children, posed for photos, and handed out presents. Holiday tunes, cookies, and hot chocolate created a festive environment, warming the heart of parents and children alike.
Close to 3,000 individual toys were distributed among eight MHHC sites across the Bronx and one in
Brooklyn. MHHC Brooklyn is the healthcare organization’s newest location and the first site located outside of the Bronx.
MHHC has been celebrating the children in various Bronx neighborhoods every holiday season for close to 40 years and is now proud to extend the joyous occasion to the children of the East Flatbush neighborhood that it now also serves.
During the holidays, partnering organizations help create magic for in-need families on Christmas in support of a core aspect of MHHC’s mission: to inspire and fulfill the dreams of children and young members of the community. These organizations act as “secret Santa’s” by donating toys and other resources to families in underserved
communities. MHHC values the strong relationships it has with its partners, some of which have been active supporters of MHHC initiatives for more than a decade.
Sharing similar organizational visions and working together creates a stronger force for the cultivation of positive change and hope in the Bronx.
MHHC emphasizes the importance of the individual needs of the members of the communities it serves, needs which are not solely healthcare related. The patient-focused approach is at the core of MHHC’s mission in its provision of high-quality healthcare While access to healthcare is a human right and necessity, connecting with patients and the entire community through events that focus on giving more
than just access to healthcare related resources creates unity. MHHC is the staple for community health and wellness and with its partners and resources, through the action giving to those in need, it truly is “the caring place”. MHHC makes the community feel cared for through the act of giving—the provision of resources necessary to live a life of health and wellness.
The week before Christmas, MHHC held its first Community Tree Lighting Ceremony to celebrate the entire MHHC community: employees and staff, patients, elected officials, supporters, partnering organizations, and Bronx residents. The evening was filled with wholesome festivities, during which everyone gathered around the MHHC Community Tree to view its lighting, an action
symbolic of the unity that the organization strives to create in the community it serves. The lights that shine from the tree are a symbol of hope in the Bronx and a brighter year as we approach the end of 2022
to do, and instead focus on self-care and your own well-being. For example, rather than planning a five-course meal, a simple pizza shared with a friend around a table can be just as meaningful.
Nobody is perfect!
Don’t let the idea of “perfection” stop you from having a fun time at the holidays. While having a plan for managing stress is important, pre-planning every detail of a holiday gath-
ering or event can be an added stressor in of itself. Sometimes, the best plan is no plan. Focus instead on simple and actionable ways you can maintain your well-being. One way is to make sure you spend time with supportive and caring people, who will be understanding if you are not feeling your best self. Remember, too, that humor is one of our best tools against stress… but sometimes we forget to use it, and can get a bit rusty!
While the way we celebrate the holidays may have changed over the years, there is no reason not to honor old traditions and start new ones. Share old family photos and stories with a new friend, schedule a video call with family to reminisce over past holiday times together, or catch up with an old friend you haven’t spoken to in a long time. You can even get creative with this approach—try a new recipe or craft that becomes
your go-to next year!
It is important to remember that we all deserve credit for getting through several years that have been tough for many of us. The holidays don’t last forever, and you can (and should) look ahead and make future plans, while cherishing treasured memories from holidays past.
Short-term mental health issues like the holiday blues are different from mental illness, but they should be taken seriously
as they can lead to clinical anxiety and depression, and even spur cognitive decline. If you are having severe symptoms, be sure to tell your doctor or seek professional help by calling 988, the nationwide number for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which will connect you with a mental health professional.
For those interested in behavioral health resources and services from VNS Health, visit vnshealth.org or call 1-866-986-7691.
Yankee Stadium’s Great Hall once again transformed into the North Pole when the New York Yankees hosted the 13th annual Winter Wonderland December 16 at 3:30 p.m. with Yankees Manager Aaron Boone greeting children and helping them select their holiday gift.
The event treated several
thousand local young people to a holiday extravaganza complete with holiday decorations, festive music, food and drink, Santa Claus handing out gifts, and caroling by the Renaissance Youth Center Choir. Each child in attendance had the opportunity to choose a holiday gift.
For the fifth consecu-
tive year, the Yankees have partnered with Walmart for Winter Wonderland. A global retailer recognized for its community excellence, Walmart has provided a toy for every child, ensuring every attendee has an experience to remember.
On Dec. 17, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson and officials from the Bronx Zoo were joined by Santa and Mrs. Claus at the zoo to distribute toys to local Bronx military families in need this holiday sea-
Frosty and the Grinch joined Bronx children during the annual tree lighting at Lincoln Hospital. The Bronx medical center has been turned into a winter wonderland filled with lights and holiday decorations.
In addition to the holiday characters, the event was
attended by Christopher Roker, CEO, Jose M Serrano Senator of 29th District and Lincoln Leadership Staff with Employees. The Hip Hop Legend Melvin - Melle Mel , Gerard- “OGEE” 1523, Michael – Mighty Mike C , and Curtis - Grandmaster Caz
son.
Spanning two BP administrations and now in its 14th year, this event has become a tradition in the Bronx. The partnership between the Bronx Zoo and the BP Gibson is continuing to serve members of the community who have served their country but find it difficult to make ends meet during the holidays.
As a holiday treat for those in attendance at the Borough President’s toy give-
Santa wore a badge. Police officers from the 47th Precinct helped collect and handout toys during the annual giveaway.
This year the 47th Precinct partnered with Crawford Memorial United Methodist Church and others to bring a huge toy giveaway into the community. In addition to the hundreds of toys given out, those in need could pick out a coat, receive tasty food and en-
joy music at the biggest holiday party in the community.
Grenada Built to Win, MetroPlusHealth, NYPD Community Affairs Bureau, Reverend Noel Chin, and Council Member Kevin C. Riley hosted a toy giveaway on Saturday, De-
cember 17th from 11AM to 3PM at Crawford Memorial United Methodist Church, 3757 White Plains Road, Bronx, NY 10467.
There was food, music with a DJ, clothes giveaway, face painter, popcorn, plenty of toys, dancing, and loads of fun.
I have had many fine culinary encounters in 2022. Looking back, here is a short list of favorite dishes and dining venues you should try not to miss this new year!
ROBUST ITALIAN OUT OF A DINER, TRATTORIA VIVOLO
Owner Dean Vivolo serves a wonderful Paglia e Fieno con Funghi, with its dreamy mix of mushroom ragu, scallions, crispy prosciutto, and pecorino cheese. The Linguine Vongole is not to be missed. We enjoy it with a side of tender Broccoli Rabe.
Chef Vivolo’s robust regional Italian cuisine is served out of a restored diner 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; fresh old-fashioned Meatballs and Sausage; Crostino di Polenta, topped with wild mushrooms, gorgonzola, and tomato sauce; Lasagna Bolognese al Forno; Osso Buco, tender braised veal shank; occasional Roasted Porchetta. Great staff. Good wine list. Sparkling lights evenings. Closed Mondays. Free parking. Trattoria Vivolo, 301 Halstead Ave., Harrison. 914-8356199 www.trattoriavivolo.com
Three-time winners of Michelin’s prestigious ‘Bib Gourmet’ Award, brothers Peter and Giovanni Cucullo have been causing a stir in New Rochelle, drawing patronage from all over the county to their flavorful riff on Italian/global cooking. Named after Mama, Maria’s has become a regular haunt for me. Love their happy hours from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. when they
offer some favorite beverages and small plates that are loaded with flavor. I am hooked on such eclectic dishes as: Glazed Pork Ribs, Truffled Green Beans, Grilled Sausage with sweet & spicy Peruvian peppers, Mom’s Meatballs, Cauliflower Fritters, and Roasted Shishito Peppers.
Special mention must go to their Baked Rigatoni and tender baby Lamb Chops. For dessert their cream filled Dannoli is an indulgence. Pleasant dining room and bar filled with artifacts from home. Good networking spot. The family also operates bustling Fratelli’s Pizza and Pops Café next door. Maria, 11 Huguenot St., New Rochelle. Take-out & delivery. Closed Sundays. 914-636-0006 www.marianewrochelle.com
Owner Shane Clifford and his staff have been drawing a fine crowd. The space has been totally remodeled and 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 a refreshing Harvest Green Salad; Double-Stacked Smash Burger; decadent Short Rib Mac N’ Cheese; Jack’s Meatballs; Seared Scallops; Chicken Curry; Burrata Pizza out of their woodfired oven; Berkshire Pork Chop; and Grilled Lamb Sliders. The staff could not be more friendly. Open daily. Indoor & outdoor seating. TVs. Municipal parking; free evenings. Jack’s Bar, 219 Main St., Eastchester. 914-652-7650 www. jackseastchester.com
When Nick DiCostanzo was growing up on the Island of Ischia on the Coast of Naples in It-
aly, his earliest memories where of the simple seaside meals he would enjoy with his family, farm-to-table and of course sea-to-table. As proprietor of Mamma Francesca for nearly 40 years, 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, albeit with a sprinkling of contemporary taste. There are private and semi-private party facilities for up to 100 guests and catering packages to suit your needs. Robust Italian/American specialties include freshly made Manicotti, Calamari Fritti, Ischia Salad, Chicken Parmigiana, Misto Frutti di Mare. Rabbit Cacciatore, too. Daily Happy Hours. Off-premise catering. New woodburning pizza oven. Free parking. Mamma Francesca, 414 Pelham Road, New Rochelle. 914636-1229 www.mammafrancesca. com
I have enjoyed my visits to Freebird Kitchen & Bar this past year. We have devoured Fried Calamari, meaty Racks of Baby Back Ribs, Cobb Salad, spicy Chicken Wings, crispy Brussels Sprouts. Shrimp & Grits and Braised Short Ribs, too. The cooking here is very satisfying, and all done with a friendly southern theme. Portions are ample and shareable. The lighting and those artsy birds hanging from the ceiling in the dining room give it a magical atmosphere. There is a seasonal rooftop. Sunday Night Jam sessions. Sprawling bar. Craft beers. Happy hours: Tues.-Thurs. 4-6pm; Fri. 2-6 p.m. Freebird, 161 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. Open Tuesday thru Sunday for lunch, dinner & weekend brunch. 914-607-2476 www.freebirdkitchenandbar.com
Set in a 3-story restored building in the heart of the ‘Queen City’s’ massive Main Street renewal, Town House proprietor Tom Middleton of Pelham and Chef Chris dos Reis, a native of New Rochelle, offer a seasonal menu of global dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Amiable manager Mariana Rodriguez and her crew will help you thru your meal with aplomb. Our first meal here was a dazzling flavorful hit, and unique to the downtown. Fresh oysters, Kimchi Tempura Green Beans, grilled cauliflower, and a delicious Line Caught Sea Bass, green garlic, parsnip, cabbage. There’s an upscale Town House Burger, too. Check Open Thursday-Sunday, dinner only. Private party facilities. Spirited bar/cocktails. Good networking spot. Town House, 559 Main Street, New Rochelle. 914278-9278 www.townhousenewro. com
Owner/Brewmeister Michael Chiltern brought White Plains its fi rst microbrewery 3 years ago
and it’s a good one. He has updated his hours and is now serving his brews and a new menu all afternoon and evening from noon, Tuesday thru Sunday. The tasting room and open-air backyard has been expanded with extra seating. The crew is friendly and knowledgeable. A daily selection of brews is listed on a big colorful blackboard. Comforting new specialties coming out of the kitchen include: Birria Tacos, Blazin’ Wings, Hand Cut Free Range Chicken Tenders, a variety of Brew House Burgers, and Slammin’ Sandwiches like the South Paw Philly Cheesesteak. Enjoyed my Passion Wolf IPA there recently. Closed Mondays. Wolf & Warrior Brewing, 195A E. Post Road, White Plains. 914368-8617 www.wolfandwarrior. com
(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)
