Bronx Voice - March 30, 2022

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SHOCKING Dinos return CRIMES to Bronx

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5th Year, No. 21

March 30 - April 5, 2022

Shoplifter tasers Zoo Page 10 guard who tried Number of e-scooters to stop her

Photo by Julie Larsen Maher ©WCS

File photo

Page 6

Carjacker slams into Page Trump’s golf course 2 Gunrunners busted Page 4 with 33 weapons

to double in boro Page 15

Photo by NYC DOT

Carjacker slams into Trump golf course in Bronx

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By Dan Gesslein A carjacker, who stole a vehicle in Allerton, crashed into Trump’s Bronx golf course, police said. The NYPD released surveillance video in an attempt to locate the suspect.

According to investigators proached by a group of men at a driver seated in his car at the around 3 pm on March 7. The corner of Allerton Avenue and individuals simulatThe NYPD released surveillance video of a man wanted for questioning in a carjacking that ended in the stolen CONTINUED ON PAGE 9 vehicle crashing into Donald Trump’s golf course in Ferry Point Park.

Williamsbridge Road was ap-

BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022• 3

BRONX 33 weapons seized in Bx. VOICE

4• BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022

undercover gun bust

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Two Bronx men have been indicted for selling 33 weapons and large capacity ammunition feeding devices to an undercover NYPD officer, prosecutors announced.

District Attorney Darcel Clark said, “The defendants allegedly sold these deadly weapons, many of them loaded, on the streets of the Bronx in broad daylight. All but a handful of these guns have been here for some time; at least two of the guns have been connected to shootings in the Bronx and Manhattan.

While we focus on the Iron Pipeline bringing new guns from out of state, this is a case of stopping criminals from recycling weapons that are destroying our communities. I thank the courageous undercover officer for helping to make the Bronx safer.”

Clark said the defendants, Dereck Velasquez, 29, AKA “Chop,” and Eric Colvin, 26, both of the Bronx, were indicted on 242 counts, including Criminal Sale of a Firearm, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Conspiracy, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Ammunition, Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance In or Near School Grounds, and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Sub-

177 Main Street Suite 449 New Rochelle, NY 10801 (646) 565-8341 Website

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stance. The defendants were arrested today. They both were arraigned today before Bronx Supreme Court Justice Albert Lorenzo. The defendants were remanded and are due back in court on March 29, 2022.

The four-month investigation dubbed “Operation Chopping Block,” was conducted by the Bronx District Attorney’s Violent Criminal Enterprise Bureau and the NYPD’s DEA Firearms Task Force of the NYPD’s Firearms Suppression Section,

with U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s New York Division and Homeland Security Investigations New York.

The defendants, allegedly high-ranking members of the Forest Over Everything crew, affiliated with the Bloods, allegedly sold a total of 33 firearms—25 semi-automatic pistols, five revolvers and three assault weapons, as well as 15 large capacity ammunition feeding devices, and approximately 80 grams of cocaine—to the under-

cover for a total of $63,460, between September 28, 2021 and February 1, 2022.

According to the investigation, the defendants sold most of the weapons in the Bronx on Jackson Avenue, East 163rd Street and other streets near the Forest Houses in the Morrisania section.

Four of the transactions occurred in Harlem.

The weapons were transferred in broad daylight. In one incident, weapons were held in a laundry bag and CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Publisher/ Editor in Chief Daniel Gesslein Associate Editor - News David Greene Culinary Editor Morris Gut

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BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022• 5

Shoplifter tasers security guard in Bronx

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6• BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022

By Dan Gesslein A Bronx security guard was tasered when he tried to stop a suspected shoplifter, the NYPD says.

The NYPD released surveillance video of a woman who allegedly tasered a security guard and her accomplice during a shoplifting attempt.

Investigators released photos of two women suspected in the attack on a security guard at a Mount Eden discount store back in February.

According to police at around 3 pm on February 3, a security guard stopped a young woman inside the Bar-

gain Hunter store on Mount Eden Avenue. Cops say the woman had attempted to leave the store without paying for merchandise.

When she was stopped the woman began to argue with the security guard. Then the woman pulled out taser and

tased the security guard in the hand. The attacker’s accomplice threw merchandise that was outside the store and the women then fled. The suspects ran off empty-handed.

Investigators said the security guard refused treatment at the scene.

Anyone with information is urged to call CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 577-TIPS. All calls are confidential.

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33 weapons seized in gun bust

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

pushed in a cart by the seller who then dumped them into the undercover officer’s vehicle.

Investigators traced two of the firearms to shootings in the Bronx and Manhattan through ballistics evidence found at the scenes, and the

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investigation continues into the origins of the guns and whether any others have been used in crimes. Two of the firearms are ghost guns, which have no serial numbers and may be composed of 3D printed parts.

Police Commissioner Keechant L. Sewell said,

Weapons recovered during an investigation in the Bronx.

“The NYPD and our law enforcement partners are focused on anything or anyone threatening the safety of the people we serve and every gun we take off our streets is another realization of the public-safety promise we make every day, to every New Yorker. I want to commend and thank the NYPD’s Firearms Suppression Section, the Violent Criminal Enterprise Bureau of the Bronx County DA’s Office, the New York Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and all the investigators and prosecutors who worked on this important case.”

Drug Enforcement Administration Acting Special Agent in Charge Tim Foley said, “Today’s arrests put two gang members in jail and shut down access to a gun cache in our backyard.

We have seen gun violence and drug trafficking become partners in crime; but law enforcement collaboration is tracking down those responsible in order to make our communities safer.

“I commend the Bronx

District Attorney’s Office, the New York City Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations New York for their partnership and laudable efforts throughout this investigation.”

Homeland Security Investigations New York Acting Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel said, “Anytime an illegally owned gun is removed from the street, it undoubtedly makes our communities safer. HSI stands with our partners at the ATF, Bronx District Attorney’s Office, the NYPD and the DEA to do whatever it takes to combat gun violence and stem the flow of violent crime throughout New York City.

“HSI will continue to forge law enforcement partnerships and utilize every tool in its arsenal to vigorously pursue any individual involved in the trafficking of illegal weapons, a necessity in preserving public safety and stopping gun violence.

An indictment is an accusatory instrument and is not proof of a defendant’s guilt.

Carjacker slams into Trump golf course in the Bronx

BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022• 9

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

-ed that they had guns and removed the driver from the car. They then fled in the stolen vehicle.

Later over in Throggs Neck, the stolen car crashed into another vehicle that was stopped

at a red light in front of 500 Hutchinson Parkway.

While trying to get away, the carjackers slammed into the exterior wall at the Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point.

The NYPD says one of the suspects fled on foot from the car across the grounds of

the golf course.

The 33-year-old female driver whose car was struck refused medical attention.

Anyone with information is urged to call CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 577TIPS. All calls are confidential.

The NYPD released surveillance video of a man wanted for questioning in a carjacking that ended in the stolen vehicle crashing into Donald Trump’s golf course in Ferry Point Park.

Dinosaurs return to the Bx. Zoo after Covid lockdown

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10• BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022

Some of the largest animals that ever roamed the Earth will be making a comeback this summer at the Bronx Zoo. Dinosaur Safari is returning with MORE dinosaurs than ever before in a new experience that will immerse visitors in a recreation of a world that disappeared millions of years ago.

This is the first time the Bronx Zoo has featured its popular Dinosaur Safari since 2019 and it is back with exciting changes for 2022.

For the first time, the immersive experience will be a ¼ mile-long walkthrough exhibit covering more than 2 acres of forest. It will feature 52 life-sized animatronic di-

nosaurs and petrosaurs that move and roar in an accurate depiction of what life looked like in pre-historic times.

Dinosaur Safari adventurers will be awed by the new 110-foot Argentinosaurus – one of the largest animals ever to walk the face of the Earth. Storied favorites like the 40 foot long Tyrannosau-

Photo by Julie Larsen Maher ©WCS

Photo by Julie Larsen Maher ©WCS

rus rex, a favorite species in popular culture that was the apex predator in its time; the lesser-known Omeisaurus, a herbivore that spans more than 60 feet head-to-tail and towers over the safari trail; and the new Quetzalcoatlus, the largest known pterosaur ever to live. All will highlight the diversity of life that existed 100 million years ago.

“Dinosaur species evolved and adapted physically and behaviorally to their environments in much the same way as species we see today.” said Jim Breheny, Bronx Zoo Director. “Guests visiting the Bronx Zoo today are encouraged to compare dinosaur adaptations to some of their modern day descendants - like

birds. We are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the zoo’s iconic World of Birds building in 2022 and take the opportunity to see how a wide variety of avian species from around the world have evolved to survive and thrive in different habitats.”

Dinosaur Safari is presented

by Bank of America.

“Bank of America’s sponsorship of the Bronx Zoo’s Dinosaur Safari reflects our commitment to supporting cultural programs that enrich our communities,” said José Tavarez, President, Bank of America New York City. “We applaud the Bronx Zoo’s innovative efforts to keep us connected to the natural world – especially these prehistoric marvels –

while continuing their work to protect the environment, a cause close to our hearts.”

This limited engagement will open to the public on Monday, April 11 and will operate for the 2022 season only. Members’ preview dates will be on April 8-10. Access to Dinosaur Safari is free for Zoos PLUS; Land & Sea; and Conservation-level members.

For tickets, more information about Dinosaur Safari at the Bronx Zoo, and a full list of daily activities, visit www.

BronxZoo.com.

The dinosaurs featured in the Bronx Zoo’s Dinosaur Safari were created by Dino Don, Inc – an international leader in the design and construction of animatronic robotic dinosaurs.

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Health Matters

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Extending life, hope through organ donation

By Leonides Trevino, Clinical Manager, Office of Organ and Tissue Donation Services, Montefiore Health System Every 15 hours someone dies waiting for an organ transplant in New York State.

Right now, over 7,000 people are waiting for organs in the New York Metropolitan area and most people don’t know that we have the power to change these numbers.

One organ donor can save eight lives and heal 75 more people through eye and tissue donation.

April is National Donate Life Month, a time when we focus on the importance of saving lives through organ, eye, and tissue donation.

Throughout the month we are holding educational events and donor registry drives to raise awareness about the importance of organ and tissue donation as a means to extend the promise of life to those in greatest need.

Through organ and tissue donation initiatives, our goal is to increase donations in the Bronx, and help to alleviate the donor shortage. We reach out to our associates and our Bronx community, raising awareness and acceptance

of organ donation, dispelling myths and misconceptions that can be barriers to donation. We provide health education to prevent the onset of diseases that eventually may lead to the need for transplantation.

To kick off Donate Life Month on April 1st we will be holding a flag raising ceremony. This is part of a national effort to raise awareness about the need for organ and tissue donors. In addition to honoring organ donors and their families, the ceremony salutes hospital staff who care for donors and transplant recipients.

We are also holding educational sessions and donor registration drives at these Montefiore locations: • April 1, 9:00 am - 3:30 pm Moses Campus East Garden at 111 East 210th Street, Bronx, 10467 • April 5, 9:00 am - 3:30 pm Moses Campus entrance at 111 East 210th Street,

Bronx, 10467 • April 8, 9:00 am - 3:30 pm Medical Arts Pavilion, 3400 Bainbridge Avenue, Bronx, 10467 • April 11, 9:00 am - 3:30 pm Medical Arts Pavilion, 3400 Bainbridge Avenue, Bronx, 10467 • April 22, 9:00 am - 3:30 pm Moses Campus Gun Hill Rd Entrance • April 27, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Montefiore Medical Group, 2532 Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York 10458 Every ten minutes a person is added to the National Transplant Waiting List and with the current shortage of Trevino, Clinical Manager, Office of Organ and Tissue Donation donated organ and tissue, Leonides Services, Montefiore Health System most patients wait three to five years for a transplant in New York State. We are calling upon all Bronx residents to add their names to the New York State Donate Life Registry for organ, eye, and tissue donation, to do your part in saving a life.

For more information about donation or to enroll in the New York State Donate Life Registry, visit www.donatelifeny.org or call me at 929-285-4331.

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What every New Yorker needs to know about managing prolonged COVID-related stress

By Salvador Garcia, FRIENDS Clinician, Visiting Nurse Service of New York Over the last two years, families have been under a tremendous amount of stress. At the FRIENDS clinic, an Article 31 clinic located in the Bronx, we continue to assist overwhelmed and exhausted clients that are having trouble managing stress after a prolonged experience with the COVID pandemic.

At the FRIENDS clinic, with limited resources, students

our licensed social workers, psychiatrists, and psychiatric nurse practitioners provide medication management and ongoing therapeutic services for children, youth, and their family. Whether it’s parents

struggling with heightened anxiety and/or depression, or older adults fearful of leaving their home, these concerns do not follow the stream of spikes and dips in the overall COVID cases in the Bronx. Instead, these are persistent emotions that ul-

timately manifest themselves in ways that are unhealthy for both the mind and body.

At VNSNY’s FRIENDS clinic, where we focus on trauma-informed care, emotional/ behavioral needs, and individual and family counseling, I often remind my clients of what we are told during airplane safety demonstrations… it is important to put on your own oxygen mask before helping someone else with theirs. That same sentiment applies to selfcare during stressful times. You must take the time to address your own needs. This is not an act of selfishness but, necessary in order to help others manage their own stressful situations.

I have found that the following self-care strategies may be good for your mental and physical health and can help you take charge of your life. These strategies will also benefit your mental health and allow you to effectively help those around you cope better with stress.

Take Care of Your Body • Get enough sleep. Go to bed and get up at the same times each day. Try to stick to your typical sleep-wake schedule, even if you're staying at home.

• Participate in regular physical activity. Regular physical activity and exercise can help reduce anxiety and improve your mood. Find an activity that includes movement, such as dancing, walking or use an exercise app.

• Eat healthy. Choose a well-balanced diet. Avoid loading up on junk food and refined sugar. Limit caffeine as it can aggravate stress, anxiety, and problems with falling a sleep or even a good night’s sleep.

• Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and drugs. Using alcohol to try to cope can make matters worse and reduce your coping skills.

Avoid taking drugs to cope unless your doctor has prescribed medications for you.

• Limit screen time. Turn off electronic devices for a set amount of time each day, especially 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. Make a conscious effort to spend less time in front of a screen: television, tablet, computer and/or phone.

• Relax and recharge. Set aside time for yourself. Even a few minutes of quiet time can be refreshing and helpful for you to settle your mind and reduce anxiety. Many people benefit from practices such as deep breathing, tai chi, yoga, mindfulness or meditation. Also, soaking in a bubble bath, listening to music, or reading/listening to a book. Whatever helps you relax, select a technique that works for you and practice it regularly.

Take Care of Your Mind • Keep your regular routine. Maintaining a regular daily schedule is important to your mental health. In addition to sticking to a regular bedtime routine keep consistent times for meals, bathing, getting dressed, work or study schedules, and exercise. Also, set aside time for activities you enjoy, this predictability can make you feel more in control.

• Stay busy. Healthy distractions can help you not focus on the cycle of negative thoughts that feed anxiety and depression. Enjoy hobbies that you can do at home, such as reading a book, writing in a

journal, making a craft, playing games or cooking a new meal. Try to identify a new project or clean out that closet you promised you would get to. Doing something positive to manage anxiety is a healthy coping strategy.

• Focus on positive thoughts. Choose to focus on the positive things in your life instead of dwelling on how bad you feel. Consider starting each day by listing things you are thankful for. Maintaining a sense of hope will help you to accept changes as they occur and to keep problems in perspective.

• Use your moral compass or spiritual life for support. If you draw strength from a belief system, it can bring you comfort during difficult and uncertain times.

• Set priorities. Do not become overwhelmed by creating a life-changing list of things to achieve while you are home. Set reasonable goals each day and outline steps you can take to reach those goals.

Give yourself credit for every step in the right direction, no matter how small and recognize that some days will be better than others.

While these tips can certainly help with self-care during stressful times, if you are experiencing a mental health crisis, it is very important that you reach out to a medical professional immediately.

The FRIENDS clinical service program is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information, please call 1-718-742-7100.

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14• BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022

Culinary Road

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By Morris Gut

Spring has sprung for foodies

The start of the spring season finds restaurants feeling more upbeat about prospects for the rest of the year. The onset of milder weather also means al fresco dining. My palate is forging ahead. Here are some of my recent culinary encounters…

HAVANA CAFÉ SERVES A TASTE OF CUBA! The breezy flavors of Cuba and the Caribbean are highlighting the seasonal fare at bustling Havana Café in the Schuylerville/E. Tremont section of the Bronx. Partners Kevin Alicea, Ruben Rodriguez, Antonio Olavarria, and Troy Perez have opened the French doors to their outdoor café and patrons are flocking in.

Step inside the multi-sectioned restaurant and to your left is a wrap-around 30-seat bar/lounge area busy throughout the day and evening with a lively networking crowd enjoying colorful specialty cocktails. The 100-seat dining room is divided into 3 sections highlighted by Cuban inspired wall murals, banquets, two-tier seating, exposed industrial piping, wood beams and ceiling fans. Popular Happy Hours run from 3pm to 7pm and include Mojitos, Sangria, and Margaritas. The house also carries a major rum list and offers rum flights daily.

Had a good time eating at the bustling bar recently. From the dynamic kitchen come such lusty starters as: Alitas China, crispy chicken wings; Camarones al Ajillo, sautéed shrimp, double garlic sauce, piquillo peppers served with garlic toast; Mango Ribs, baby back pork ribs with mango BBQ sauce; and a Picadera combo platter of empanadas, cangrejitos (mini corn and crab cakes), spicy wings and coconut shrimp. Overstuffed sandwiches include: a Signature Cuban Burger, 10 oz. beef burger,

double smoked bacon, caramelized onions, American cheese, and French fries; Cubano, the traditional Cuban sandwich served with plantain chips; and Salmon Burger with fresh avocado, chipotle mayo and mixed green salad. ‘Nuevo Cubano’ main courses include Paella Cubana, chicken, chorizo, jumbo shrimp, mussels, calamari, served with saffron rice; and Churrasco, grilled skirt steak with tomato escabeche, smoked bacon moro de mami’. Vegan options available.

Havana Café is located at 3151 E. Tremont Ave., Bronx, N.Y. near Throggs Neck. 718-518-1800 The restaurant is open 7 days a week for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch.

Bar/Lounge. Happy Hours: 3 pm to 7 pm daily. Casual dress. Seasonal outdoor seating. Parties and on/off premise catering for all types of events. Major credit cards.

Reservations suggested for larger groups. Havana Cafe Castle Hill, 1247 Castle Hill Ave., Bronx. 718822-4800 www.havanacafebx.com INDOOR/OUTDOOR TASTINGS RETURN TO BRONX BREWERY!

The crew at 10-year-old Bronx Brewery in the Port Morris section of the south Bronx are geared up for food and brews 7 days a week in their popular backyard. Indoors and outdoors Friday thru Sunday. I am a fan of their Pale Ales. Empanology, the food concession, is open, serving a variety of fresh-made empanadas, burgers, and sandwiches. Check the website for exact times of operation. Bronx Brewery is located at 856 E. 136th Street, Bronx.

Phone: 718-402-1000 www. thebronxbrewery.com SPRING SPECIALS AT ARTIE’S, CITY ISLAND!

Owner Spiro Chagares offers patrons a flavorful melding of traditional and contemporary dishes served with flair. There

are hearty Seafood Chowders; Smoked Salmon Roll-Ups; Wood Grilled Jumbo Shrimp and Scallops; hunks of tender Short Rib; a massive Zuppa Di Pesce; tender Oven Roasted Rack of Lamb; Chardonnay Poached Salmon with seafood; and fresh Lobster prepared in a variety of styles. Big combo platters. Craft beers. Private party facilities. Off premise catering. Open 7 days. Free parking. Artie’s Steak & Seafood, 394 City Island Ave., Bronx.

718-885-9885 www.artiescityisland.com A TASTE OF DALMATIA AT DUBROVNIK, NEW ROCHELLE!

Founded by Jerry Tomic, Dubrovnik is Westchester’s first restaurant devoted to the food and culture of Croatia, a multi-level 85-seat establishment with seasonal outdoor patio, state of the art temperature- controlled wine cellar (ask for Jerry’s wine from his family’s winery in Croatia), al fresco wood fire rotisserie BBQ, lush seasonal herb garden seating and bar/lounge. The talented kitchen will transport you to the beautiful Adriatic in flavorful style. Most everything is house made from the bread to desserts.

Mama Tereza’s lobster, shrimp, scallops, fish, clams, and mussels steamed in a seasonal broth over pasta; Rack of Lamb; or whole roasted fish prepared out on the BBQ. Valet parking.

Dubrovnik, 721 Main St., New Rochelle. Open daily. 914-6373777 www.durbrovnikny.com ‘PASS THE DUTCHIE’ AT KRAVE, NEW ROCHELLE!

A vibrant Chyrisse Crisp and Chef Chrissy have brought Westchester an exciting Ca-

Alitas China Crispy Chicken Wings and Mango Ribs at Havana Cafe.

ribbean/American/Southern restaurant loaded with colorful, comforting dishes from the islands. There is a long sparkling bar/lounge area leading into the dining room, dramatically glass enclosed, part banquet seating.

Start with an order of Lamb Meatballs, or Cod Fish Cakes.

It is a bustling modern setting for such specialties as: ‘Pass The Dutchie’, traditional foods served in Dutch pots: Dutch Pot Fried Chicken; Jerk Pork & Jerk Chicken; Stewed Oxtail; Ackee with choice of fish; even Curry Goat on weekends. Whole fish include Red Snapper, Salmon and Bronzini. If you’re in a vegetarian mode, try the Tofu Chop Suey. Open Tuesday thru Sunday. Krave, 8 S. Division Street, New Rochelle. Phone: 914-740-7240. www.kravenewroc.com SALSA LOVE AT MINIS LATIN FUSION, NEW ROCHELLE!

Nicole Pirraglia-Piparo of City Island has opened

Minis Latin Fusion, a charming eatery that offers colorful, flavorful Latin/Caribbean

specialties such as fresh made traditional Sancocho Stew, tasty big Empanadas, ‘Picaderas’ such as Cuban Spring Rolls, and Shrimp Tostones.

‘Plato’s Fuertes’ include Minis Burger, Pernil, Mofongo, Ropa Vieja, and Churrasco with rice & beans. New Haitian dishes via Chef Evens Auguste include Conch, and Tassot de Cabrit, fried goat.

Share a Big Maduro Sundae for dessert. Minis is open for dine-in by reservation for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch Tuesday thru Sunday.

Take-out & delivery. Free parking. Minis Latin Fusion, 237 Main Street, New Rochelle. 914-355-5609 www. minislatinfusion.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: 914-235-6591.

E-mail: gutreactions@optonline.net)

NYC DOT to double number of E-scooters in the Bronx

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Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez announced the DOT plans to expand its e-scooter pilot in the eastern Bronx this June, which will double the program’s footprint and bring new micromobility options to more residents. In less than a year, the three e-scooter share companies in the pilot’s first phase have already recorded more than 480,000 trips without any deaths or serious injuries.

“This administration is committed to reducing our dependency on automobiles and more equitably delivering services across the five boroughs. Our e-scooter pilot in the Bronx has been a remarkable success and we’re excited to bring it even more residents in need of alternate forms of transportation,” said Commissioner Rodriguez. “We thank our pilot partners Bird, Lime, and Veo, for sharing our values of safety, affordability, and accessibility.”

Through Phase 2 of the pilot, DOT will work with its partners to double the number of available scooters from 3,000 to 6,000 while extending current pilot zone in the northeast Bronx further south. Phase 2 will include neighborhoods like Parkchester, Castle Hill, Country Club, and Throggs Neck, providing connections to additional stops on the 6 train as well as the NYC

Ferry at both the Soundview Ferry Terminal and Ferry Point Park Terminal.

The DOT will continue to work with Bird, Lime, and Veo to promote safe and responsible riding, discounted pricing options, and compliance with e-scooter parking rules. Companies are required to hold free, in-person outreach and safety training events each month and have held a number of demonstrations in partnership with community organizations, BIDs, and New York City Housing Authority tenant associations.

Safety The strong safety requirements in the DOT’s pilot builds off of lessons learned through the agency’s experience with Vision Zero and other cities’ experiences with shared e-scooters. Safety is baked into contractual and operational requirements.

The DOT requires in-app safety training and quiz and

BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022• 15

age verification for new riders. There is also a “Beginner Mode,” during which each rider’s first three trips are speed-limited at 10 mph and cannot start in overnight hours.

DOT has also expanded bike infrastructure in the pilot area, installing bike lanes on White Plains Road and 233rd Street. During the second phase of the pilot, DOT plans to install 10 miles of conventional lanes and is planning to build more cycling infrastructure in the expansion area in 2022 and 2023, including: Eastchester Road, Bronxdale Avenue, a new PBL network in Throggs Neck, as well as extending lanes along White Plains Road.

DOT will begin outreach soon at relevant community boards will for future bike lane expansion proposals in Throggs Neck and additional, protected bike lanes in Soundview.

Affordability & Accessibility New Yorkers who receive or qualify for any local, state, or federal assistance program (e.g. SNAP, NYCHA, discounted utility bill) are eligible for discounted e-scooter rates. Materials promoting discounted pricing are avail-

able in multiple languages.

DOT has worked with the three companies to provide options for users to pay with cash instead of a credit card and for users to use e-scooters without a smart phone by texting. As part of the pilot, all companies must provide wheelchair-accessible scooters.

As of early March 2022, 950 unique rider accounts have collectively nearly

17,000 rides through discounted pricing services, averaging approximately 20 rides per account. DOT will work with the companies to push enrollment in these discount programs higher during the second phase.

“Ridership in the Bronx has been incredible, demonstrating the very real and complementary benefits that micro-electric transportation can bring both to residents and

established transit services in New York City,” said Renaud Fages, Chief Mobility Officer at Bird.

“We commend the NYC DOT for expanding the availability of e-scooters into more neighborhoods in the Bronx, and we look forward to continuing our work with them to ensure the program has a positive impact on all New Yorkers.”

"We're honored to provide safe, affordable, carbon-free transportation to even more Bronx residents this year. Since launching last summer, tens of thousands of Bronx riders have used Lime e-scooters to traverse neighborhoods that can be difficult to navigate on public transit. We've also offered thousands of discounted rides through our Lime Access program to ensure income isn’t a barrier to sustainable transportation,” said Phil Jones, Senior Director of Government Relations at Lime.

16• BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022

Women’s History Month

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New affordable housing honors pioneer

Acacia Network and Phipps Houses –two NYC-based nonprofit housing developers– gathered with State and City officials, partners, and community members to cut the ceremonial ribbon on Santaella Gardens, a mixed-use affordable housing development with 249 units with rents affordable to households earning between 30 and 90% of Area Median Income (AMI), including 25 units for formerly homeless individuals and families, as well as retail and community facility space on the ground floor, among other amenities.

The event was held on March 8, 2022 to coincide with International Women’s Day, as the housing development was named in honor of Justice Irma Vidal Santaella, the first Puerto Rican female to serve as a Justice of the New York Supreme Court. Among other guests, the ribbon-cutting ceremony featured the participation of Justice Santaella’s family members, in-

cluding her daughter Ivette Santaella, Esq. “Santaella Gardens serves not only as a testament to Justice Santaella’s many contributions to women and human rights, but also to Acacia Network’s longstanding commitment to honoring and preserving the legacy of our Puerto Rican pioneers in The Bronx, who made possible incredible advances in the fields of social services, housing, addiction treatment, and more.

With this building, we celebrate the past, while looking toward the future,” says Raul Russi, President of Acacia Network.

“The path to a truly affordable city requires us to build high-quality affordable housing that serves all communities,” said Adam Weinstein, President & CEO of Phipps Houses. “Our partnership with the Acacia Network at Santaella Gardens has created much needed affordable housing in The Bronx, including units for the formerly homeless. Santaella Gardens

honors a legal trailblazer, Justice Irma Vidal Santaella, and we are honored to join her family today as we cut the ribbon on this wonderful monument to her considerable impact on both local and legal history.”

“We are proud to continue working with our partners – including the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC), the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), and Phipps Houses– to address the housing affordability crisis in the city, ensuring that vulnerable and formerly homeless New Yorkers are able to secure permanent, environmentally sustainable housing with access to community resources,” says Lymaris Albors, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Acacia Network.

“Today's ribbon-cutting for Santaella Gardens marks an important milestone for residents and a much-deserved honor to Justice Santaella's

legacy,” said Andre White, Executive Director & CEO of Phipps Neighborhoods. “Phipps Neighborhoods is proud to offer critically needed community resources to the residents of Santaella Gardens to ensure that the children and adults have access to the opportunities that will help them thrive in every aspect of their lives.”

Designed by Dattner Architects, the project has been pre-certified by Passive House Institute US + 2015 (PHIUS), soon to receive Passive House certification. The super-insulated, virtually air-tight building envelope offers residents enhanced thermal comfort and a continuous supply of fresh, filtered air, while lowering heating and cooling costs. Rooftop solar photovoltaic panels generate onsite renewable energy.

Other energy-efficient features include ENERGY STAR appliances, LED lighting with control sensors, and Energy Recovery Ventilation. The devel-

opment also boasts a colorful façade that is reminiscent of the architectural details of Old San Juan in Puerto Rico.

Santaella Gardens was made possible through the Mix and Match Program of the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and the Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH) program of HPD. “Today we celebrate the completion of 249 affordable homes for individuals and families from a range of household incomes, including much-needed housing and supportive services for 25 formerly homeless New Yorkers,” said HDC President Eric Enderlin. “Thanks to all of our partners for their ongoing efforts to ensure our city remains affordable for all New Yorkers through projects like Santaella Gardens.”

“Affordable housing is a human right, something that Justice Irma Vidal Santaella, a trailblazing woman, fought for her entire career," said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. "On this International Women's Day, I was proud to honor her legacy to cut the ribbon at Santaella Gardens. This 100% Affordable Housing Development will bring 249 much needed units for low and moderate income households, along with 25 units for the formerly homeless to the Soundview section of The Bronx. This affordable housing project represents important investments that should be a model for our Borough and City. I want to thank Phipps Houses, Acacia Network, HPD and HDC for making this project a reality.”

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BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022• 17

Women take charge in Bx. offices

By David Greene As Women's History Month comes to a close, three Bronx women have officially been sworn into office in recent days, as those inaugurations were delayed due to COVID-19.

Councilwoman Pierina Sanchez takes her oath of office as she is sworn in

by Congressman Adriano Espaillat on March 20, on the campus of Bronx Community College.

Pastoral Action Cen- took her oath of office ter on West 170 Street. on March 27, before a former Mayor Bill de And finally, newly large crowd at Herbert Blasio, braved chilly elected Borough Pres- H. Lehman College in temperatures to watch ident Vanessa Gibson Bedford Park.

Councilwoman Pierina Sanchez (D-14) be sworn in by Congressman Adriano Espaillat outside on the campus of Bronx Community College.

On March 26, Councilwoman Althea Stevens (D-16) was schedPhoto by David Greene uled to take her oath Vanessa Gibson is surrounded by family members as she is sworn in as 14th Borough President of the Bronx during a ceremony at Herbert of office at the Latino the H. Lehman College on March 27, 2020.

On March 20, a large crowd that included

Happy Land Fire

18• BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022

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Community comes together 32 years later

By David Greene Unable to gather the last two years due to the coronavirus, family members and friends joined a handful of public officials as they gathered to mourn the 87 lives lost in the Happy Land social club fire of 1990.

Photo by David Greene

Senator Luis Sepulveda speaks to a crowd of mourners at the Happy Land Memorial Park on A smaller crowd then in past Boulevard and East Tremont March 25, 2022. years, family members gath- Avenue on March 25, to pay placed on the fence that will ing the park so mourners can often closed to the public. ered at the Happy Land their respects and ask local tell the history of the Happy observe birthdays and other Lieutenant Roy David, a Memorial Park at Southern officials for a plaque to be Land Fire, as well as open- important dates as the park is longtime member of EMS, was the first EMS member called to Happy Land that night. David shared his story with several mourners, telling them, "The call came across of a rubbish fire burning in front. I pulled over here and I was told by the firemen that there were up to 100 people inside, and I said where? Because there was no sign or anything.”

David recalled the illegal nightclub that quickly became an inferno, explaining, "It was upstairs and the two windows were blocked by giant air-conditioners." He then recalled treating one survivor, the club's dee-jay who bravely ran through the flames.

Speaking to the crowd, Senator Luis Sepulveda said, "I'm glad to have everyone here. This event, this day, this Two balloons hang from a fence at the Happy Land Memorial Park as family members and friends remember the 87 victims who died on the 32nd tragedy is something that has anniversary of the horrific Happy Land social-club fire on 1990.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

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BRONX VOICE• March 30 - April 5, 2022• 19

Food fight inside Bronx Chinese restaurant leads to beat down Police are looking for a woman who beat a worker inside a Pelham Parkway Chinese buffet during a dispute over the food.

The NYPD released surveillance video of a woman who allegedly attacked a worker inside a Chinese food restaurant on Pelham Parkway.

At around 2:15 pm on March 7, a customer got into a heated arguement with a female employee inside China Mia Restaurant on White Plains Road. Investigators said the female customer argued with the worker over the food service.

The NYPD released surveillance video which shows the customer go be-

hind the counter and punch the 33-year-old worker in the head multiple times.

The attacker then fled on foot.

The victim refused medical attention at the scene.

The alleged attacker is described as light skinned woman in her 20s. She is 5 foot 5, 150 pounds with black hair in a ponytail. She

was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt, gray sweatpants and white 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 WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM, or on Twitter @ NYPDTips.

All calls are strictly confidential.

what happened on this corner here or at Happy Land.”

Galarza said, "This monument should be open every single day and have whoever wants to come in here and pay their respects to their loved ones should be able to do that," adding that there are no Parks Department signs announcing the opening and closing of the park.

Regarding a plaque on the outside fence that would teach the history of the deadly arson fire that took so many lives, Galarza added, "Because people in this neighborhood don't know,

they don't know that there was a fire across the street in one of the happiest weekends, especially for the Hondorans. They were celebrating this time of Lent, this weekend at Happy Land.”

Nearly 3-months since the deadly Twin Parks North West apartment fire that claimed the lives of 17 Bronxites, including 8 children, newly elected Borough President Vanessa Gibson told the crowd, "You can never give people too much information, because like I said at Twin Parks, many of those families died from smoke inhalation. They lit-

erally were running down the stairwell because there were no exterior fire escapes and they felt that was the only way.”

Gibson continued, "Some people decided to stay and shelter and they survived, but how do you make that split-second decision? Do I stay in the apartment and burn to death or do I run down the stairs and risk my life?”

Gibson later told the Bronx Voice she was open to working with family members and the community board on a plaque detailing the Happy Land history as well as

opening the park to family members.

Julio Gonzalez was charged with setting the Happy Land blaze in a jealous rage directed at his estranged girlfriend who worked at the club.

Gonzalez was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison and died of a heart attack in 2016. The Happy Land fire remains the second deadliest fire in New York City History, behind the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire that ironically occurred on the same date, March 25, 1911.

That fire claimed the lives of 146 workers.

Happy Land Fire 32 yrs later CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

become a part of history of this community and will be a part of history forever. And we as civic leaders and elected officials have to make sure we honor the memory of the families that passed away in this tragedy.”

Sepulveda continued, "As suggested by the former (Community Board # 6) district manager Ivine Galarza and some of the members of the board, they want to make sure that people who get off the bus here, people that walk in this neighborhood should be able to see the names and the history of

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