Bronx Voice - June 5, 2024

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8th Year, No. 4

June 5 - 11, 2024

Will Trump conviction Page change any 8 minds in BX?

Photo by David Greene

Empowering communities 1 initiative at a time

The NYPD is searching for this man for allegedly pelting a Bronx Jewish Center with eggs.

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Teddy bear mugger sucker punches man on the street

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By Dan Gesslein He’s no Teddy Bear. Cops are searching for a man wearing a teddy bear hoodie who was caught on camera assaulting and robbing a man in the Bronx.

The NYPD released surveillance video of a man and a woman on the corner of Creston Avenue and East Burnside Avenue in Mount Hope.

At around 11:30 pm on April 2, the couple approached a 19-year-old male standing on the corner. The video shows the couple walk past the man and then the male suspect turns and begins yelling at the victim. He

walks up to the victim who tries to back away and throws something on the floor.

The attacker picks the item up and then, cops say, slaps the victim in the face. The attacker then proceeds to forcibly remove the victim’s property.

The couple then runs off northbound on Creston Avenue.

The suspect is described as a male with a slim build who

The NYPD is searching for this couple in connection with the mugging of a man in the Bronx. is between the ages of 25 and 35. He was last seen wearing a black hoodie with two teddy bears on the front with the graphic “Legends Never Die.” The second suspect is a female with a medium build who is between the ages of 25 and 35. She was last seen wearing an old dark gray hooded sweatshirt with the word “Champion” written across the front. She was also seen wearing gray sweat-

pants, 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.

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Vandals pelt Jewish Center with eggs

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By Dan Gesslein eggs.

Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577Video captured the thugs TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, Cops are looking for a trio of antisem- throwing eggs at the cen- 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The ites who pelted a Bronx Jewish Center ter’s door and the side of the public can also submit their tips building. by logging onto the CrimeStopwith eggs.

The NYPD’s Hate Crime pers website at https://crimesSurveillance cameras captured the trio of vandals who targeted Young Israel of Pelham Parkway Jewish

Center. At around midnight Task Force is investigating. toppers.nypdonline.org/ or on on May 27th, three men Anyone with information in Twitter @NYPDTips. walked up to the Jewish Cen- regard to this incident is asked All calls are strictly confidenter and unloaded, throwing to call the NYPD's Crime tial.

The NYPD is searching for these men for allegedly pelting a Bronx Jewish Center with eggs.

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Community Op Ed 6 • BRONX VOICE• June 5 - 11, 2024

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Spring jobs will lead to summer of opportunity

By Mayor Eric Adams New York City is in the middle of an economic boom, breaking record after record when it comes to creating jobs and opportunity.

Just last week, we celebrated another record high for private-sector jobs in our city, with unemployment falling to 4.8 percent. There is also good news on the equity front, with Black unemployment at its lowest point in half a decade, having decreased by 26 percent since the start of 2022.

There is no question: our economy is strong.

But we are committed to building on our success and expanding the scope of opportunity for all. That is why we are announcing our “Spring Jobs Sprint,” an all-out effort to connect New Yorkers with jobs.

We are not waiting around — we are bring-

ing the jobs to the people.

Every month, we host hiring halls to bring both public- and private-sector job opportunities to neighborhoods across the five boroughs.

We have also recently launched "Run This Town," a multi-media advertising campaign to engage diverse New Yorkers and help them apply for thousands of available city government jobs. The announcement follows the launch of "Jobs NYC," a multi-pronged citywide effort to reduce barriers to economic opportunities and deliver workforce development services directly to communities that are experiencing high unemploy-

Photo by Benny Polatseck/Mayoral Photography Office

New York City Mayor Adams, CUNY Chancellor Matos Rodriguez announce near $12 million expansion of CUNY inclusive economy initiative.

ment.

For our young people, especially young people of color, we are helping them discover their passion through

our Pathways to an Inclusive Economy, Summer Rising, and Summer Youth Employment programs. And our Green Economy Ac-

tion Plan is building an economy of the future with real pathways to family-sustaining careers.

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Spring jobs will lead to summer of opportunity

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Our goal? We want the “Spring Jobs Sprint” to lead to a “Summer of Opportunity,” with full employment and a renewed sense of optimism and energy in our city.

Over the coming weeks, we will be announcing new projects that will help create thousands of jobs, now and in the fu-

ture — projects like our recently announced transformation of the Brooklyn Marine Terminal in Red Hook. The largest city real estate transaction in recent history, this Red Hook deal will allow New York City to build a modernized maritime port on over 120 prime acres of Brooklyn coastline. This massive new opportunity

zone has the potential to create thousands of new jobs, generate billions in economic impact, and help revitalize one of our most iconic maritime communities.

Like our recently-announced redevelopment at Willets Point in Queens, the Red Hook waterfront project will usher in a transformative

new era for the world’s greatest city — and it all starts with jobs. Because a job is more than just a paycheck. Good jobs help us build a sense of meaning and give back to our communities.

They are the foundation of strong families and vibrant neighborhoods.

New York City has always been a place you can make it,

and this summer will highlight our strong economy and our ambitious job agenda. Our city didn’t recover the nearly 1 million jobs we lost during the pandemic by looking backwards — we did it by building an economy of the future.

This summer, let’s celebrate the rising tide that lifts all boats — and chart a new course for opportunity for all.

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Trump holds Bronx rally days before Hush-Money Conviction

By David Greene Days after the first-ever criminal trial against a former American president concluded, Donald Trump held a rally for thousands of supporters in Crotona Park in the South Bronx.

spent the last month in court every single day with president Donald Trump and I have witnessed the persecution through prosecution that our 45th President and 47th president is going through on a daily basis.”

Diaz told Trump supporters, “Donald Trump, what he has done today, unite the Bronx… No one

ever did that, only Donald Trump.”

As Trump took to the stage, he told the elated crowd, "Hello New York City and hello to all the incredible, tough, strong, hard working American Guest speakers warming candidate Madeline Brame patriots right here in the up the Make America Great and former state senator Bronx.”

Again (MAGA) crowd in- and city councilman RevTrump continued, “We cluded Andrew Giuliani, erend Ruben Diaz, Sr. are going to bring safety the son of the former mayGiuliani told the crowd, back to our streets. We're or; GOP Congressional "I've got to tell you, I've going to bring success back to our schools, we're going to bring prosperity back to every neighborhood and every borough in the greatest city in our land.”

Looking out at the crowd, Trump called the gathering, “a lovefest” before adding, “Who said we’re not going to win New York? We’re going to win New York.”

If reelected, Trump vowed, “I’m going to call your mayor and your governor and I’m going to say this is president Trump and I want to come back to help.” He added, “It doesn’t matter if they're Democrats or Republicans because this is about our city and our country.”

He added, “We’re going to renovate New York’s Photo by David Greene Former president Donald Trump became the first GOP candidate since Ronald Regan to visit Subway System… it hasn’t the South Bronx.

been cleaned since 1932, but rather it will be the most beautiful transit system in the world.”

Speaking of the cabinet he chose when elected, Trump claimed, “We had great people, but we also had some people I wouldn't have used if I had my choice. Now I know everybody. I know the smart ones. I know the dumb ones. I know the killers.

I know the weak ones. I know them all." The crowd then broke into chants of, “DRAIN THE SWAMP!” Speaking to his unprecedented two impeachment trials and the four current criminal cases he now faces, Trump claimed, “And they're doing it to injure the political opponent of an incompetent candidate, because he can't run fairly and squarely.”

In the issue of illegal immigration, Trump said, “We are not going to let these people come in and take our city away from us and take our country away from us, it's not going to happen."

The crowd then broke into a chant of, “SEND THEM BACK!” CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Trump holds Bronx rally days before Hush-Money Conviction

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Trump then invited Reverend Diaz onto the stage.

Before the crowd, Diaz told Trump, “As a Puerto Rican, as a Hispanic I want to apologize for the conduct of Judge Juan Merchan. As a Hispanic I want to apologize. He's being used, he has been used to destroy you, but we know better than that.”

Before closing out the rally Trump then invit-

ed rappers Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow, both men are currently out on bail and under criminal indictment in Brooklyn in a gang conspiracy case involving several shootings of rival gang members.

A week after the rally, on May 30, a jury found Trump guilty on all 34-counts of falsifying business records stemming from an illegal campaign contribution

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regarding the 2016 Presidential Election. Trump is expected to be sentenced

by Judge Merchan on June 11.

The NYPD did not respond to a request for an estimate on the crowd size, number of protesters, injuries or arrests. The FDNY reported that 11 civilians and one member of the Photo by David Greene NYPD suffered “minor injuries” and one person was Rapper and so-called ‘Mayor of MAGAville’ Forgiato Blow is removed to a local hospital. interviewed by a puppet outside of Crotona Park.

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Health Matters

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Becoming a mentally tough guy

By Dwayne Barker, free program, petty Bronx Dad quarrels with my chilGrowing up it was common for me to dren’s mother were hear young men and boys being told common and we’d to tough it out, and for years I thought argue in front of the “he’s a tough guy” was a compliment. children, failing to My view shifted because of the HERO see how stressful this Dads program at Montefiore Medi- was for the kids. After cal Center. I was welcomed by Bronx attending the relationship and parenting dads who just understood me, they too workshops, I started had difficulty managing stressful situ- to see things differations without getting overwhelmed. ently. As parents, we

Healthy, Empowered, Resilient, Open (HERO) are qualities the program seeks to grow. Our first week, we learned that noticing our thoughts, feelings and actions could change the game. This mindfulness helped me grow my bond with my children, have more fun with

them and allowed me to teach them healthy social and emotional development. While kids may not seem like they are listening to parents, they truly do look to their dads to learn how to express and cope with their emotions.

Quitting Quarrels Before I joined this

were not aware of our thoughts or feelings

– and then, we didn’t share them in healthy ways.

When I started to truly listen to my children’s mother and summarize her perspective before stating my own, things changed. Together we created respect for the other’s opinion, and

Dwayne Barker

agreements that ben- fective because of this efited the emotional approach.

Mentally Tough needs of our children.

Guys Our arguments became fewer, our stress lower Fathers who can and our family commu- master their emotions CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 nication was more ef-

Becoming a mentally tough guy

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in healthy ways can show up; these men can be patient, present, and attentive. Anger and stress come up often for me, and so many dads – but stepping back and taking a break are valuable skills that I learned through the HERO Dads program.

Not knowing how to manage everyday

stressful situations made it difficult for me to truly connect with and show love for my children. I learned real strategies to stay in the moment with my kids – even when I have a list of issues on my mind. Together, my kids and I can use these skills to move towards a calm and present mind.

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Like our muscles, habits for good mental health can be trained. Our minds are powerful forces and just as important as physical health.

During HERO, Dads I met men who are role models, and I came to know that expressing your emotions is not a weakness, but a very valuable strength.

If you need help, reach out to a mental health professional or join the HERO Dads program. I’ll be there to welcome you!

About HERODads HERO Dads is a federally funded, free program that provides relationship and parenting workshops and enhanced employment services for non-custodial fathers.

HERO Dads is run by mental health professionals, and fathers are provided with the tools necessary to increase their mental health and become more comfortable noticing and expressing their emotions. Text HERO to 646-8236204 or call 929-2344834, or e-mail us at HERODads-UBA@ montefiore.org

MHHC Springs into Action: Empowering communities one initiative at a time

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By Kayla Mercedes Lee Spring is a season of renewal, growth, and community engagement, and MHHC (Morris Heights Health Center) remains at the forefront of empowering and uplifting communities across the Bronx and Brooklyn. As we bid farewell to spring and get ready for the summer season, let's take a moment to reflect on the impactful events and initiatives that have taken place this Spring, showcasing MHHC's commitment to fostering a culture of empowerment, wellness, and togetherness.

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Empowering Women: Celebrating Women's History Month In March, MHHC kicked off the season with a series of empowering events celebrating Women's History Month.

Through the "Leadership, Literacy, and Learning" initiative, MHHC brought together local Bronx schools to inspire and educate young minds about the invaluable contributions of women throughout history.

At PS 127, Council Member Amanda Farias shared stories of courageous women who have shaped history, inspiring students to embrace their potential and make a difference. Similarly, at PS 279, students were captivated

by Constituent Advocate for the Office of Councilmember Eric Dinowitz, Frederice Latchman, who told stories that highlighted themes of courage and resilience.

Another unforgettable Women's History Month event took place at PS 279 where students were visited

by Councilmember Pierina Sanchez, who empowered students to embrace empathy and compassion. Represent-

ing MHHC CEO and President Mari G. Millet, Debbie Ebanks, MHHC Director of Infectious Control/Staff Development for the Nursing Department, shared inspiring stories with 7th-grade students at MS 390.

These events not only celebrated the achievements of women but also empowered youth to become agents of positive change in their communities.

Community Unity: Walking Towards a Cleaner, Brighter Future MHHC believes in the power of community unity and collective action. In early May, MHHC organized another Community Unity Walk & Clean-Up, inviting residents of all ages to come together and beautify their neighborhood.

Partnering with local organizations and schools, such as the Office of Councilmember Pierina Sanchez, Humane LLC, NYCH2O, The Trash Project, Charter High School of Law and Social Justice, Bronx Community Board 5, and Davidson Community Center, MHHC CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

Empowering communities one initiative at a time

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was able to provide the necessary resources to make this initiative a success. From cleaning up litter to planting trees, the Community Unity Walk & Clean-Up was a testament to the strength and spirit of Bronx communities working hand in hand to create a cleaner, safer environment for all.

Age Well Series: Promoting Health and Wellness for Older Adults The Age Well series is a testament to MHHC's dedication to the health and well-being of older adults in the community. Through gentle movement classes and nutrition education, MHHC empowers older adults to live healthier, more active lives.

The Age Well series, which takes place every Thursday, brings together older adults from the MHHC community for a series of enriching events aimed at promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. As we look ahead, MHHC remains committed to supporting older adults on their journey to age well and thrive.

Beautifying Our Community: AGreen Initiative MHHC understands the importance of nurturing a sense

of pride and belonging within communities. In collaboration with NYCH2O and the DOH Teen Unit, MHHC embarked on a beautification project aimed at transforming the surroundings of the MHHC Senior Residents' building.

Through teamwork and dedication, volunteers cleared, planted, and transformed the environment, creating a space that fosters community spirit and connection. This initiative is a shining example of how small acts of kindness and collaboration can make a big difference in our communities.

Maternal Health and Hope Coalition: Empowering Expecting Mothers MHHC's strong commitment to maternal health was highlighted during Black Maternal Health Week. Through a series of events, including prenatal yoga sessions, breastfeeding education workshops, and nutrition demonstrations, MHHC provided expecting mothers with essential resources and support to navigate their pregnancy journey with confidence and empowerment.

From celebrating the

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physical and mental benefits of yoga to empowering mothers through nutrition and breast-feeding education, MHHC's Maternal Health and Hope Coalition is dedicated to ensuring that every expecting mother receives the care and support she deserves.

Teen Cafe: Creating Safe Spaces for Teens

MHHC's Teen Cafe provides a safe and supportive environment for teens to engage in meaningful conversations and activities.

From important discus-

sions about sexual health to fun-filled games and delicious food, Teen Cafe offers teens a judgment-free zone where they can connect with their peers and learn valuable life skills.

There is even a session called “Spill the Tea, AMA (Ask Me Anything)” with Dr. Luke Carlson, MD, MA, FAAP from MHHC Pediatrics where teens can ask questions.

With the support of partners like the Office of Councilmember Pierina Sanchez and local schools

such as the Charter High School of Law and Social Justice, Teen Cafe continues to thrive as a vibrant hub for teen empowerment and community building.

As we reflect on these recent initiatives, one thing is clear: MHHC is dedicated to empowering communities, fostering wellness, and building a brighter future for all. From celebrating the achievements of women to promoting health and well-being across generations, MHHC's spring.

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Culinary Road

By Morris Gut

Foodie fish, chops ideas on any budget

Jack & Jill’s is now serving! Partners Ro Flanagan, Shane Clifford and Brendan Donohue have opened Jill’s Bar & Restaurant in Mamaroneck, just across from Harbor Island Park.

Clifford and Flanagan, who are husband and wife, also operate the popular Jack’s Bar & Restaurant in Eastchester. It’s a dynamic creative matchup that is sure to bring Westchester’s communities good food and conviviality. Ro will be hosting daily meeting and greeting.

The restaurant design and approach are her vision.

Jill’s is a colorful 90-seat environment. Walk inside the airy dining room and be lavished with a palette of colors: blue, green, pink, orange, yellow and flowery murals covering the walls. The daylight spills through large picture windows highlighting the long bar and marble mosaic tiled floors and artwork. Contemporary lighting and multi-color velvet cushioned high tops and tables

surround the room. There is a semi-private banquette seating area for greater intimacy.

The space had been the site of a number of restaurants, including long running Lum Yen. Talented Chef Brendan Donohue, who trained at IT Tallght Culinary School in Ireland, has been cooking for 20 years. He created a stir at Jack’s. According to Donohue, the eclectic menu at Jill’s is his ode to ‘new European’ along with popular Irish American specialties brought over from Jack’s.

The menu offers ‘Jack’s Staples & Snacks’: Short Rib Mac & Cheese, Grilled Lamb Lollipops, Birria Nachos, Jack’s Breaded Wings with choice of sauce. Or you can hunker down with new starters: East Coast Oysters,

Ahi tuna at Jill’s.

Crispy Duck Pancakes, Panko Crusted Burrata and a Mezze Platter for two.

Salads & Flatbread’ include Lobster Cobb, Ahi Tuna Bowl, The Mush Flatbread with oyster mushrooms, prosciutto, burrata, basil pesto, tomato sauce. ‘Handhelds’ include Buttermilk Chicken

Sandwich; Veggie Sliders; and an American Wagyu Beef Burger.

Hearty main courses: an 18 oz. Black Angus NY Strip Steak with stilton spuds, overnight tomato, charred broccolini, green peppercorn sauce; Guinness Braised Beef Short Ribs with Jill’s

roasties; Half Roasted Petite Chicken; Seared Scallops; and a Non-Traditional Fish & Chips, pan seared cod filet in caper butter, crispy beer battered twills, house tartar, mint pea puree and house fries.

The house prides itself on CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Foodie fish, chops ideas on any budget

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a variety of curated specialty cocktails, draft and bottled beers, and vintage wines.

The bar is a great place for networking.

Jill’s Bar & Restaurant is located at 100 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck.

Open 7 days for lunch & dinner. Sunday brunch in the works. Main courses: $17 to $45. Bar/cocktails. TVs Take out. Semi-private party facilities. Municipal parking, free evenings. Reservations accepted.

914-341-1776.

Website under construction.

Check Facebook.

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 career.

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: 914636-9869. Check Facebook.

FARMERS MARKET AT NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN in the Bronx is open Wednesdays

from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will run every Wednesday thru Oct. 23rd . Admission and parking are free. Enter the market at the Mosholu Gate. www.nybg.org/event/ farmers-market/ BRONXVILLE FARMERS MARKET This bustling market runs every Saturday from 8:30

a.m. to 1 p.m. thru November 24th. Stone Place at Paxton Ave. 914-337-6040 www. b r o n x v i l l e c h a m b e r. o rg / bronxville-farmers-market THE PELHAM MARKET Open Sundays, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Harmon Ave. & Fifth Ave. www.pelhammarket.org (Morris Gut is a restau-

rant marketing consultant and former restaurant trade magazine editor.

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

Basket of fried clams and fries at Leno’s Clam Bar.

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