November 4, 2020

BRONX VOICE

HALLOWEEN HORROR www.bronxvoiceny.blogspot.com

4th Year, No.10

FREE November 4 - 10, 2020

Shot to death after leaving Halloween party in Morris Park Page 21

Buyback gets 136 guns off the streets Page 6

Lincoln Hospital and the Young Lords:

Health care history is made

Page 18

Photo by David Greene

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Cops continue search for shadowy figure wanted in graffiti hate crime

By David Greene A month after a series of gender-biased graffiti attacks in Norwood, police are likely looking for a burly, shadowy figure caught on surveillance video-- as at least one of the hateful messages can still be observed on the front of a Decatur Avenue building.

A photo of the Black Lives Matter / LGBTQ mural on the side of Jerry's Hardware store after it was defaced.

On October 16, NYPD detective and spokeswoman Sergeant Jessica McRorie stated, "There are four anti-sexual incidents involving graffiti that occurred along 204th Street that was reported on September 18, that are currently being investigated as possible hate crimes."

McRorie noted four locations: Opposite 296 East 204 Street, in front of 320 East 204 Street, in front of 314 East 204 Street and in front of 300 East 204 Street, before adding, "There are no arrests and the investigation is ongoing.”

According to the NYPD's own informa-

tion, 296 East 204 Street is Jerry's Hardware, who's Black Lives Matter / LGBTQ mural was defaced with red paint.

Opposite the hardware store's side entrance is McDonald's, which is also the 4th incident listed by the NYPD as 300 East 204 Street. The other two incidents at 320 East 204 Street is a newly constructed building and 314 East 204 Street is Leroy's Pharmacy, who's owner denied any graffiti attack took place at his business.

The four incidents the CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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NYPD makes arrest in pizza stabbing

Saint of Bedford Park helped local biz, people in need

By David Greene As the NYPD announces the arrest of a suspect in the fatal pizza shop stabbing in the Bronx over the weekend, neighbors are expressing shock at the senseless murder.

As some Bedford Park residents are still in quarantine during this once in a lifetime pandemic, neighbors were still learning days after of the horrific, senseless killing of Kevin Smith,

62, who was stabbed twice in the chest after a brief exchange of words with his assailant.

The NYPD reported that Smith was attacked at 6:59 p.m. outside of 380 East Bedford Park

Boulevard on October 22. Police say Smith died a short time later at St. Barnabas Hospital, but one friend was sure that Smith died right there on the sidewalk, the man believed, "his spirit left his body right there.”

On October 25, police spokeswoman Sgt. Mary Francis O'Donnell, confirmed the arrest of Jason Young, 35, CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Photo by David Greene

A donation box had been set up at the Boost Mobile on East Bedford Park Boulevard to help cover the cost of Kevin Smith's funeral.

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Buyback gets 136 guns off the streets

District Attorney Darcel D. Clark announced that 136 guns—mostly revolvers and semi-automatic pistols—were turned in at the Bronx Gun Buyback held on Saturday October 24, 2020 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.

Seventy-four participants received an iPad, courtesy of the Bronx DA’s Office and the New York Yankees, as well as a cash card.

“I am pleased that there are 136 less firearms in homes or on the streets,” Clark said. “This event was an opportunity for people to turn in guns, no questions asked, and receive cash AND a useful tool to help their children’s education. I thank the NYPD and Rev. Pierre-Andre Duvert, pastor of St. Luke’s, as well as the New York Yankees, for helping us with our goal of eradicating gun violence in the Bronx.”

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Skateboarder struck by car outside of gun buyback

By David Greene A young skateboarder riding in an intersection with the green light was struck by a vehicle and was bounced off the automobile's windshield like a rag doll-- outside of a local church that was hosting the final hour of a daylong gun buyback program.

According to the FDNY, the incident was reported at 3:07 p.m. on October 24, at the corner of East 222nd Street

and Barnes Avenue.

Officials could only say that one victim was removed to Montefiore North Hospital. It is believed the youngster was not seriously hurt.

Moments after impact, the driver jumped out to check on the condition of the child, while officials from both the NYPD and the Bronx District Attorney's office emerged from St. Luke's Episcopal Church across

the street, where officials were into the final hour of a day-long gun buyback program that would pay members of the public to turn in their guns.

The youngster attempted to walk and shake it off, before he sat on his skateboard until paramedics arrived.

The NYPD has not yet responded with the particulars of the incident or provided any answers

to questions, such as if any summonses were issued to the driver.

The gun buyback program continued and 136 firearms, including 90 revolvers, 2 sawed-off shotguns and an assault rifle were taken off the streets.

Photo by David Greene

The youngster sits on his skateboard as he waits for EMS to transport him to Montefiore North Hospital for evaluation.

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8• BRONX VOICE• November 4 - 10, 2020

NYPD makes arrest in pizza stabbing

Saint of Bedford Park helped local biz, people in need CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

of Decatur Avenue, who was charged with murder, manslaughter and a weapons posession charge, all relating to Smith's death.

Earlier the same day a business owner and friend

of Smith's recalled, "They did arrest him and the reason behind it was the next day he (the killer) walked by like it was nothing," the owner explaining how Young walked through the area that was a crime scene just hours earlier,

and boldly added, "We called the police.”

O'Donnell would later confirm that call, stating, "The incident happened at 1900 hours on the 22nd and then on the 23rd, at 11:40 in the morning, the perp comes back to the scene and then I guess people called 911 immediately."

O'Donnell added that officers, "were in the area canvassing for video and stuff, so that's when they grabbed him," at Webster Avenue and East 198 Street.

The business owner was miffed how a pair of major media outlets had gotten a horrible detail wrong, reporting that Smith was stabbed in the back, as he explained, "He stabbed him right in the heart, you'll see on the video."' A copy of which he later provided to this publication.

That video, one of several from businesses whose cameras all caught the deadly encounter. The video begins with both men standing outside of the Bedford Pizza, when the assailant rushes to the curb, only

to double back into Smith's path and stabs him in the right side of his chest.

Seconds later the killer delivered a second stab wound to the upper torso and Smith immediately collapsed where he stood, onto the sidewalk. The killer then picks up a bag left on the sidewalk and calmly walks westbound.

With about a dozen businesses on either side of Bedford Park Boulevard, the shop owner recalled how he first offered Smith a job to sweep the sidewalk outside his shop, and revealed, "He swept all the way down the block to Webster Avenue and didn't ask for any extra money."

According to multiple residents and workers from the area, Smith swept store fronts, delivered pizzas and ran errands for many of the businesses on both sides of the strip.

Edwin Ocasio was trying to pay an overwhelming debt of gratitude to Smith, when he was observed stuffing a wad of cash into a small hole in a box at the Boost Mobile store. The owner created the donation box in hopes of raising enough money to bury Smith. Ocasio said of Smith, "He saved my life. I was trapped in the addiction of drugs and I needed help.”

Ocasio credited Smith with helping him turn his life around five years ago, offering him a bed, a meal and encouragement.

Ocasio recalled, "He gave me a helping hand... I'm hurting because we spoke Thursday morning." The pair had planned to meet Sunday, but Ocasio concluded, "But after that I didn't hear from him anymore.”

On October 23, a woman who lived in the same Decatur Avenue building as Smith, had just gotten the news and was visibly upset as she visited the makeshift memorial set up for Smith at the site of the attack.

"Oh my God! You know what?

You have to be appreciative of the people that are around you and your family members and

the friend's that are around you and be appreciative of the time you have with them.”

"Kevin lived in my building," the woman added, "He was a darling, a beautiful person. Beautiful as far as he never asked anybody for anything. He hustled, he worked.”

Another resident was asked if the police were doing enough, she replied, "Well we had the protests and everything and they (the police) kind of took a step back, but I think they're back in full action, I hope and pray because we need it. We need them…"

The woman then said of Smith, "I saw him Tuesday, he was outside Tuesday and he was very happy.”

According to NYPD statistics, Smith is the seventh homicide victim within the 52nd Precinct command for the year, compared with eight for the entire 2019. Smith is also the fourth victim murdered in the month of October.

The first of four October killings was reported on Friday, October 9, when Kossuth Avenue resident Marvin Duchenne, 29, was stabbed in the chest by an unknown assailant at 8 p.m. at East Gun Hill Road and Jerome Avenue. Duchenne's killer remains at large.

On Sunday, October 11, Rider Ferraras, 35, was stabbed to death at his home at 2837 Valentine Avenue. Police classified the incident as a "domestic dispute" and arrested his apparent live-in girlfriend Marianela Valdez De Gonzalez, 39, who was charged with the crime.

On October 11, Wendolin Ortiz, 19, was shot and killed as she partied at Mixtec, an illegal nightclub at 2345 Jerome Avenue. Two men were wounded, but survived. The gunman was apprehended and has been charged in the crime.

The 52nd Precinct covers the Bedford Park, Fordham, Kingsbridge and University Heights neighborhoods.

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Cops continue search for shadowy figure wanted in graffiti hate crime CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

NYPD reported do not include the multiple incidents reported by residents along Perry, Hull and Decatur Avenue's, between September 16 and September 18.

A month after the incidents, residents walking past 3105 Decatur Avenue can still see the hateful message written by a burly, shadowy figure caught on the building's surveillance video.

The man wrote, "Die of AIDS Faggots." A second message that was almost completely removed with a power washer, stated, "Make NY straight again!”

A resident of 3105 Decatur Avenue recalled, "I came out here

and the first thing I saw was the police. Then I saw it and watched as police questioned some people in front of the grocery store.”

Looking at a second spray-painted message on the building, he continued, "I didn't even read that, but I saw this... I was so disgusted with this. This is America and you can live your life whatever way you want to live.”

“They're not only attacking the homosexual population," the resident continued, "but you’re also attacking all of the tenants here who pay good rent and this is a pretty fair neighborhood that has all different nationalities and

everyone pretty much comes and goes and minds their business, so for someone to do that is crazy.”

The resident concluded, "The ironic thing was I had a lady friend come see me and she actually commented.

She's from the rough projects of the Lower East Side... so she was talking about how the neighborhood is so diverse and it's pretty quiet and nobody bothers you and everyone does their own thing and then a week later to see this, it was crazy.”

The super of that building claimed that the NYPD was given a copy of the video, but the address is not one of the locations listed as one of the four incidents being investigated. The super said, "I have the video, but you can't see anything to be honest.

But they did the whole block though, not just my building. Yeah, they hit a lot of buildings.”

A rally and repainting of the mural at Jerry's Hardware was held on September 19 and was attended by Assemblywoman Nathalia Fernandez as well as at least three candidates, Ischia Bravo, Elisa Crespo and Kenny Agosto, that currently running for the 15th City Council Dis-

trict race being vacated

by Ritchie Torres.

A source with knowledge of the Black Lives Matter / LGBTQ mural that was painted in July, stated on August 21, "The customers have been saying what's up with that mural, that's not for this block, and that they didn't want it here.”

The source recalled how 15 or so proBlack Lives Matter and LGBTQ supporters painted the mural and added, "When they put it up, a lot of people didn't want it here and some threats were made against the mural.”

As volunteers were repainting the mural, "Sasha" the founder and co-director of Black Trans Media, explained, "We got support from the family that owns this store and their in solidarity with Black trans people who have been experiencing a lot of violence." Sasha said they were not surprised by the vandalism, adding, "We put this up three months ago and we were surprised it took that long for someone to come deface it, because people are very hateful.”

Sasha said of the NYPD, "Even in this case they said they

wanted to investigate and check if it's a hate crime. We know that they haven't been here to keep our folks safe. They told us they were investigating it as a hate crime.”

On October 3, Agosto, currently the District Leader of the 80th Assembly District and the first openly gay elected official in the Bronx, said of the graffiti attack, "We are united. On that day all of the candidates for office who are running, the LGBTQIA-plus community was united against violence.

There's no place in our neighborhood and we're going to continue, when someone does something, we're going to paint it over.”

Agosto added, "We're going to march for our communities rights and we're going to do what we need to do. We're also here to support our institutions, so we have Montefiore that runs an HIV prevention program and pantry, we need to support those things as well as Denays House and Destination Tomorrow, that services our many trans people of color in our community.”

Son arrested in beating death of elderly mom

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By Dan Gesslein A Bronx man has been arrested for allegedly beating his elderly mother to death in her Hunts Point apartment.

The NYPD announced the arrest of Steven Castro, 40, within hours of the discovery of his mother’s body in her apartment.

At around 1:30

am, 66-year-old Carmen Aponte’s body was found lying on the bed of her Seneca Avenue apartment with signs of trauma to the head. Aponte’s adult daughter found her and called police.

Less than 24 hours after news broke about the discovery of Aponte’s body,

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police announced the arrest of her son.

Investigators said Castro flew into a “jealous rage” and struck his mother with an unknown object. No word on what triggered the alleged “jealous rage.”

The 40-year-old is facing murder and manslaughter charges.

File photo

Health Matters VNSNY Veterans Hospice Care: Saluting those who served 12• BRONX VOICE• November 4 - 10, 2020

By Chandra Wilson One warm summer day, in a New York highrise apartment, a bedridden World War II veteran receiving care from Visiting Nurse Service of New York Hospice and Palliative Care received an unexpected surprise.

The veteran, Edward Flanagan, had enlisted in the Navy after his beloved older brother died in combat and went on to see action in the Pacific theater. He later became a successful bank executive and active member of the community in his hometown of New Rochelle, New York—but like most war veterans, he was shadowed by memories, some more painful than others. It also saddened Mr. Flaagan that his Naval medals and discharge papers had gone missing.

VNSNY Hospice Veterans Program Director Joseph Vitti was at his bedside with duplicates of the medals he had earned, and a copy of his discharge papers as well, thanks to Joe’s hard work and determined outreach to the Department of Defense and the National Archives. In the presence of Edwards’ wife and a family friend, Joe awarded the medals one by one, briefly explaining what each represented before pinning it on Edward’s chest: the American Campaign

Theater Medal, the Asiatic–Pacific Theater Medal, the World War II Victory medal.

Efforts like these have led the national We Honor Veterans campaign (WHV) to award the VNSNY Hospice Veterans Program the highest rating: Level Five. Developed and run by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization with the aid of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), We Honor Veterans collaborates with hospices, state hospice organizations, and VA facilities to spread awareness among U.S. military veterans of the end-of-life care and benefits that are available to them. We Honor Veterans upgrades their hospice partners on the basis of how well they’ve fulfilled the requirements for each level, which range from providing veteran-centric education to staff and volunteers and identifying patients with a military history (Level 1) to developing or strengthening partnerships with VA medical centers and veterans organizations like the VFW and American Legion (Level 5). Level Five emphasizes care for Veterans of the Vietnam War, many of whom experience chronic and debilitating oncological and neurological symptoms as a result of expo-

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sure to Agent Orange.

Joseph Vitti, who has been with VNSNY for five years and now directs VNSNY’s We Honor Veterans program, served in the Global War on Terror. The VNSNY program makes veterans and their families aware of their benefits, and helps them get their documents in order, which can often be a daunting task. Joe and other VNSNY Veterans Program team members guide Vets through the maze of the Veterans Affairs healthcare system, training staff members and volunteers to understand the impact that wartime combat can have on veterans, even decades later—most commonly, post-traumatic stress disorder and survivor’s guilt.

“When working with hospice veterans, it’s important to remember that many have already faced life and death on the battlefield” says Vitti. “Veterans are selfless people who want to help others.

Now, they’re asking a hospice team and their family or friends to take care of them, and they often find it hard.”

If a veteran’s case is difficult, a member of the team will use telehealth or make an in-person visit to the patient’s family to offer support as well.

Joe regularly connects with veterans organizations across New York

Joseph Vitti, Director of the Hospice Veterans Program at the Visiting Nurse Service of New York, liaison, salutes a VNSNY Hospice patient and WWII veteran following medals ceremony.

City’s five boroughs to maintain VNSYN’s relationship with them and take care of other veteran-related matters.

Several times a month, he orchestrates intimate ceremonies like the one with Mr. Flanagan, honoring hospice veterans for anything from an act of courage in combat to aiding fellow veterans in their community.

Especially for these heroic patients, the recovery of medals and papers provide a sense of pride and a measure of closure at the end of life, while the ceremony itself shines a bright light on the veteran’s military service achievements.

“Every war veteran

has a unique story,” says Joe. “Our partnership with We Honor Veterans makes it possible to let hospice veterans in New York City know their service has not gone unnoticed, and that it is greatly appreciated.”

Veterans outreach programs with the Visiting Nurse Service of New York ensure that U.S. veterans receive full hospice benefits related to their military service. The VNSNY Hospice We Honor Veterans program also provides end-of-life care that recognizes and takes into account their wartime experiences.

For more information, please call: 1-800-6750391 or download this brochure.

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Preparing for the upcoming flu season

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As we head into winter, you may have noticed headlines and articles referring to the “twindemic”—the overlap of the coronavirus pandemic and the upcoming flu season. Now more than ever, it’s important to get the flu vaccination to keep your immune system strong and to help you and others around you stay healthy.

For more than 80 years, Emblemhealth has worked to make quality health benefits accessible and affordable to all New Yorkers, and we are committed to keeping you safe and healthy. To better understand how we can support our members during this upcoming flu season, we conducted a citywide survey and found that nearly half of New Yorkers are more likely to get the flu vaccination this year.

At Emblem-

Health, we make it easy to get a flu vaccination. Our family of companies includes AdvantageCare Physicians (ACPNY), a multi specialty medical practice with 40 locations across New York City's five boroughs and Long Island.

ACPNY and BronxDocs, EmblemHealth's community practice partner in the Bronx, are currently offering flu vaccinations at all of their locations.

EmblemHealth members can also save time by getting the flu vaccination at your local pharmacy.

These pharmacies may be able to provide you with vaccine appointments more quickly and conveniently than your doctor’s office. Call ahead to confirm your pharmacy is giving flu shots and to make an appointment.

In addition to getting your flu shot,

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Getty Images

here are a few recommendations to help keep you and your family healthy this fall and winter: * Observe recommended preventative measures.

Practice social distancing. Wear a mask. Wash your hands frequently.

All of these tactics continue to be important and will be especially critical this flu season. * Make sure to get plenty of sleep: A sleep routine can help boost your immune system and keep you healthy through the winter. * Stay hydrated

and eat balanced meals: What we eat has an effect on our overall health and can even help us manage chronic health conditions.

Make sure your family is eating three balanced meals each day.

Scheduling mealtimes can help everyone better manage their appetite and help reduce excess snacking. And, don’t forget to drink plenty of water. * Get regular exercise: Studies show that just a few minutes of exercise each

day contributes to better health.

Going for a short walk, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or doing yoga in your apartment can improve overall health outcomes.

We encourage you to take advantage of everything EmblemHealth has to offer our members and community in the upcoming flu season. For information about topics and resources that might be helpful to you and your family, please visit emblemhealth.com/ healthyathome

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Getting a flu shot is more important than ever 16• BRONX VOICE• November 4 - 10, 2020

The Health Department released early flu vaccination data for this year’s influenza season, showing substantial increases compared to the same time last year.

From July 1 – October 24, 2020, there was a 37% increase in the number of adults aged 19 and older who have received the vaccine compared to the same time last year (an increase of 189,017 adults [517,676 last season to 706,693 this season]), and a 27% increase for children 6 months to 18 years old (an increase of 105,881 children [397,626 last season to 503,507 this season]).

In total, over 1,210,000

New Yorkers have received this year’s flu vaccine based on doses entered into the Citywide Immunization Registry.

However, since adults are not required to be reported to the Registry like children are, likely more doses have been given than captured.

The City aims to have a historic flu campaign this season, with more New Yorkers getting vaccinated than ever before. All New Yorkers older than 6 months of age should get a seasonal flu vaccine. It is especially important for adults 50 years and older, pregnant people, children 6 months to 5

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years old, and people with underlying conditions to get vaccinated.

“This promising progress is only possible because New Yorkers are looking out for one another and doing the right thing by getting their flu vaccines,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Dave Chokshi.

“This year could be the most important flu vaccine you ever get. Now is the perfect time to get the vaccine if you haven’t yet. Our friends, families and neighbors are counting on all of us to help keep each other safe.”

“Influenza can be deadly, and the best protection is to get the flu vaccine. The flu vaccine is safe and effective,” said Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Immunization, Dr. Jane

R. Zucker. “The vaccine can reduce your chance of getting influenza, and if you’ve received a flu vaccination and do get influenza, you are less likely to have severe complications. Every New Yorker who can get the vaccine should get vaccinated.”

The flu vaccine is widely available for all New Yorkers. Check with your regular health care provider to see if they have flu vaccine. Many community health centers and hospital clinics, along with all NYC Health + Hospitals clinics, provide no or low-cost flu vaccines.

Flu vaccines are also widely available at chain pharmacies, like CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens and Duane Reade, and at many independent pharmacies.

Pharma-

cists can vaccinate children as young as age 2.

Check with your local pharmacy to confirm if they provide flu vaccine and the age ranges they serve. New Yorkers can use the Health Department’s NYC Health Map, call 311, or text FLU to 877-877 to find a flu vaccination location.

There are over 870 sites listed on Health Map which can be searched to find locations that serve people without insurance to find a free flu vaccination. The health department also provides a list of community flu vaccination events at nyc.gov/flu. Flu vaccine is covered by most health insurance plans without a co-pay.

The Health Department recommends people 65 years and older CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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Getting a flu shot is more important than ever CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

receive one of the two vaccines for this age group (high dose or adjuvanted vaccine).

Because of increased demand, these vaccines may be more difficult to obtain, so seniors should receive the standard dose flu vaccine and not delay vaccination if they are having trouble obtaining the high-dose or adjuvanted dose.

This year, New York City is supporting expanded flu vaccination activities with the Department’s partners, such as NYC Health + Hospitals, community health centers, community-based organizations, urgent care centers and is offering flu vaccine at many COVID-19 testing sites. The Department has also launched a new program this year to deploy teams of community vaccinators throughout the city to meet New Yorkers’ needs.

Examples may include community-based testing sites, public clinics, pharmacies, places of worship, among others.

Establishing these contracts may help when the City offers COVID-19 vaccination services once a vaccine is available. Additionally, the Department’s citywide, annual flu vaccine campaign is underway and

appears on the subway, bus shelters, Staten Island Ferry, in neighborhood businesses, newspapers, television, radio, as well as digital and social media channels. Ads are running in English, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, and in additional languages for newspaper ads.

Flu season usually starts in the late fall and lasts throughout the spring. Since influenza activity can be unpredictable and influenza viruses can be found year-round, it is important to get the vaccine as early as possible, though it is never too late to be vaccinated. A flu vaccine is necessary each year because the vaccine provides protection for only one season. This year’s flu vaccine contains four virus strains, three of which are new this year.

Flu-like symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.

Some people, especially children, may have vomiting and diarrhea.

People may also be infected with flu and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.

The steps New Yorkers take to prevent COVID-19 are also applicable to flu. Face

coverings, frequent hand washing with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available, distancing and staying home if ill can prevent the spread of flu. Additional ways to reduce the spread of germs like flu: * Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them. * If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) * Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. After using a tissue, throw it in the trash and wash your hands. * Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. * Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like flu.

“The best way to protect yourself, your family and your community is by receiving a flu vaccine," said Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer. "More and more New Yorkers are

doing their part to prevent the spread of the flu. Thanks to Health Commissioner Dr. Dave Chokshi's annual flu vaccination campaign to improve access and raise awareness for this vital lifesaving vaccine, there is now an increase in flu vaccinations for adults and children compared to last season.”

“Given the circumstances with COVID-19 this year, it is especially important to get your annual flu shot to protect yourself and those around you who may have underlying health conditions.

The number of folks who have gotten their flu shot thus far is encouraging.

Those who have not yet taken this step should do

so to keep yourself as well as those around you from the worst of the influenza season,” said Staten Island Borough President James Oddo.

“As the COVID pandemic continues, it’s important for New Yorkers to remember to also protect themselves from other communicable diseases like the flu. Vaccines against the flu have proven effective and are widely available at low or no cost.

It’s encouraging that this year’s City Health Department data shows that more New Yorkers are getting their seasonal flu shots earlier, as I did myself,” said Assembly Member Richard N. Gottfried of Manhattan, Chair of the Assembly Committee on Health.

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Lincoln Hospital and the Young Lords:

Health care history is made On October 21, Lincoln hosted an important event and book signing for Hispanic Heritage, focusing on its diverse and unique history and its impact on modern health care. It was a fascinating history lesson for those attending.

In 1839 in anticipation of the end of slavery in NYS and the need for elderly former slaves and freemen to have a place to live, a “Home for the Colored Aged” began as civic responsibility taken on by a societal group. As the needs of its community grew from a Home (four cholera outbreaks, the aging of the Home’s residents, and injured Black citizens during Draft Riots during the civil war) in 1863 it became the “Colored Home and Hospital”.

In the 1900s before and after WWll, the influx of southerners escaping to the north, America saw civil rights momentum and successes, fueled by daily TV news.

The late 1960s influx

of 100,000 people from Puerto Rico to crowded housing in NYC, the growth of unfavorable environmental conditions led to an infamous “takeover” of Lincoln Hospital (who served all of them) by the “Young Lords” in July 1970.

This controversial former gang, became more a human rights organization “fighting for neighborhood empowerment” in the South Bronx, canvassing, advocating for and creating community programs for this hospital.

The Young Lords stepped in and stepped up to draw attention to the great injustice and inequities of the health care system in the South Bronx, which they saw as different from care in other facilities.

They demanded civic responsibility for Lincoln Hospital from its NYC owners and even with confrontation, set a path that the facility would remain the Safety Net for its

new communities which were Spanish speaking, poor, the elderly, and first generation Americans.

The historical impact of the major actions set in motion by the Young Lords, set higher standards for health care that

remain in place around the world today: The Patient Bill of Rights, The Patient’s Right to Grieve, and The Patient’s Right to be understood in their own language (called Interpretive Services).

Johanna Fernandez, PhD, author of the book “The Young Lords: A Radical History” chronicled the timeframe, important activities and clinical committees that expanded Lincoln Hospital services, partnerships with the Lincoln Collective (the medical Residents of Lincoln), Black Panthers, community advocates and the press. Fernandez made a powerful, definitive presentation and autographed her book.

In the Lincoln HospiMickey Melendez and Johanna Fernandez, PhD, author of “The Young Lords: A Radical Histal auditorium, Marlene tory”

Cintron, (left) an original Young Lord and CEO of Bronx Overall Economic Development Corp, Bronx Empowerment Zone; another original Young Lord Mickey Melendez; (on screen with clenched fist) and attending by Zoom is Charlotte Phillips-Fein, MD, member of the Lincoln Collective, the medical residents advocating for change with the Young Lords at the time; Johanna Fernandez, PhD, author of the book “The Young Lords: A Radical History”; and Bala Kanna, MD, Chief Operating Officer of NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln and spearheading this event, is holding her book, “The Young Lords: A Radical History”.

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20• BRONX VOICE• November 4 - 10, 2020

$6 Million fashion heist

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Bandits Stole Gucci, Chanel, Prada clothing by the tractor trailer full

Law enforcement broke up a high-end fashion theft ring out of JFK Airport which stole a tractor trailer full of Gucci, Chanel, Prada clothing.

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that six individuals involved in two cargo heists and selling the proceeds have been indicted and variously charged with grand larceny, conspiracy, criminal possession of stolen property and other crimes for allegedly carrying out complex heists from John F. Kennedy International Airport earlier this year.

Using insider information, the defendants allegedly hauled tractor trailers loaded with more than $6 million worth of designer merchandise, including Chanel handbags and jewelry, Gucci purses, sunglasses, sneakers and clothing, along with Prada bags, ready-towear and accessories.

“The safety and security of this county’s airports are a top priority. Teaming up with our law enforcement partners, we relentlessly pursued the suspects, who allegedly used forged documents and their insider knowledge as former airport work-

ers to steal air cargo,” Katz said.

The District Attorney’s Office identified the main defendants as David Lacarriere, 33, and Gary McArthur, 43, both truckers who formerly worked at JFK Airport. Lacarriere and McArthur and four other defendants are variously charged in a 22-count indictment with grand larceny, conspiracy, criminal possession of stolen property and other crimes.

On the night of January 31, 2020, according to the charges, Lacarriere, using his knowledge of how shipments are picked up at the airport, went to the receiving office for an air cargo importer. He allegedly showed a forged document listing the correct airway bill and flight details for a shipment of Prada products.

He and McArthur, who enlisted the assistance of two others, allegedly used a tractor trailer to load four pallets of Prada merchandise into the truck and drove away.

According to the charges, this first heist netted the defendants approximately $804,000 in Prada bags, clothes and accessories.

A few days later on February 4, 2020, police

located the trailer used in the robbery. The inside was empty, except for the interior being doused in bleach.

According to the indictment, on May 17, 2020, the same routine was repeated in a second JFK heist. One of the defendants posed as a truck driver and presented another forged document authorizing the release of merchandise from the same air cargo import company.

Defendants Lacarriere, McArthur and Davon Davis and others allegedly hauled away 5 air freight pallets containing thousands of pieces of Chanel and Gucci merchandise valued in excess of $4.4 million.

Again, as detailed in the charges, the defendants allegedly abandoned the trailers used in the heist. One trailer was found on May 29, 2020 on 56th Road in Maspeth. Inside, police found shipping pallets, wrapping material, shipping tags and display cases. The interior of this trailer was also drenched in bleach.

DA Katz said, in June 2020, police traced McArthur, Lacarriere, Davis and an unapprehended co- conspirator to a non-operational

Sample of the high-end fashion clothing recovered including Gucci, Chanel and Prada.

beauty salon allegedly used as a stash house for the stolen goods. Surveillance video shows the defendants including Davis, who is a former employee of Delta Airlines, going in and out of Candi World Beauty Bar at Guy R. Brewer Boulevard and 147th Avenue in Jamaica.

Davis has a connection with the owner of the closed beauty shop.

It appeared the establishment was allegedly used by the defendants to store their stolen merchandise.

When police arrived to search the beauty shop on June 3, 2020 they allegedly interrupted a sale of stolen designer goods.

According to the charges, another unapprehended co-conspirator allegedly was the middle man and arranged for Lacar-

riere and McArthur to sell Alan Vu 117 items – mostly Chanel handbags. Law enforcement observed Vu loading more than $300,000 worth of merchandise into the back of his white Mercedes SUV. Katz said once inside Candi World, police executed a Court-authorized search warrant and discovered mountains of

boxes stuffed with stolen merchandise still in the manufacturers’ packaging.

In all police recovered more than 3,000 Gucci items – clothes and bags and other accoutrements.

Just over 1,000 Chanel

products – purses, jewelry, sunglasses and other accessories. The estimated value of the recovered merchandise totals more than $2.5 million.

Criminal complaints and indictments are accusations.

A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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Man shot dead after leaving Morris Park Halloween party

By David Greene Residents of Pelham Parkway say a man visiting "the old neighborhood" was shot and killed as he exited a Halloween party on Barnes Avenue.

According to police, the still-unidentified 36-year-old man was shot in the neck and chest, outside of 2143 Barnes Avenue, at 1:43 a.m. on November 1.

The victim was rushed to Jacobi Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Police report there have been no arrests and no description of a suspect is available.

Identity of the victim is pending family notification.

Residents of Barnes Avenue knew the victim

by his first name, Alan or his nickname "A.I.," and say he was just visiting "the old neighborhood."

Some reported he had attended a Halloween party on the block the night before. The victim was shot outside of several new, still-vacant stores and across the street from the Pelham Parkway-Van Nest Public Library.An unidentified friend looked out at the spot where the shooting took place, and said, "He was a good guy and he liked to fight, but now this new generation with all these guns.

Where are they coming from? Because there everywhere.”

The friend said Alan had just gone "viral" with a video of one

Photo by David Greene

A bloody piece of clothing and other items are left where a still-unidentified 36 year-old man was shot and killed along Barnes Avenue on Sunday, November 1, 2020.

of his street fights on World Star Hip Hop. He speculated the cause of the shooting, stating, "It was him over a fight or him wanting to fight someone and them not wanting to fight," choosing a handgun instead.

The friend said of the recent video, "I'm

Elderly man critical after being hit by express bus Friend to Beatles legend John Lennon

By David Greene

An elderly man is reported to be fighting for his life after being struck by an MTA express bus in Morris Park.

Police and fire officials confirmed that the still-unidentified 78-year-old male victim was crossing Morris Park Avenue at Radcliff Avenue at 8 p.m. on October 29. The victim was rushed to Jacobi Hospital, where he was listed as being in critical condition.

Officers from the 49th Precinct shut down Morris Park Avenue, between Bogart Avenue and Colden Avenue late into

the night, performing their investigation into the crash. Initial reports stated that the driver of the BX-10 express bus remained at the scene and had a green light at the time of the crash. Heavy rain had been reported in the area throughout the day.

The New York Daily News identified the victim as George Dingfelder, 78, and friend of music legend John Lennon.

Ironically, the site of the crash comes as Morris Park residents will mark five years since the horrific Halloween-day crash of 2015, where an out-of-control vehicle plowed into a group of

trick-or-treaters at Radliff Avenue and Morris Park Avenue.

That crash killed 65-yearold Luis Perez, his 9-year-old granddaughter Nyanna Aquil and Kristian Leka, 24. Leka died after successfully pushing his sister Fiona out of the way in the moments before the crash.

On October 5, 2018, the driver Howard Unger, 59, was sentenced to four to 12 years in prison after it was determined he drove without taking seizure medication. Unger was found guilty of three counts of second degree manslaughter and making false statements.

watching it and it looked like my old neighborhood and as I look more, I see A.I. having a fight and he's demolishing the guy.”

Now speaking to two other men, the trio recalled another friend

named "Flip," the first friend offered, "Flip is another guy who liked to fight and he got murdered." The men recalled that deadly encounter that took place earlier this year on Cruger Avenue.

Celebrating Halloween in a social-distancing world

22• BRONX VOICE• November 4 - 10, 2020

By David Greene Covid could not kill Halloween. It just made it more creative as cops and parents tried to give kids a taste of holiday.

This year since the annual Halloween Parade was cancelled, the NYPD's 49th Precinct held its first annual Pumpkin' carving event at the station-house,

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during two sessions on October 22.

E v e r y o n e wore masks and hand sanitizer was available, as the children were assisted safely in the process of carving a scary pumpkin.

The success of Photo by David Greene the event will Children celebrate halloween with police officers at the 49th Precinct on Eastchester Road. likely mean that to create a safe, tion for families in way and Morris the global pannew, annual tradi- the Pelham Park- Park areas. demic has helped

Subway panhandler punches woman in neck over $2

By Dan Gesslein A Bronx subway rider who would not pay a panhandler $2 to open a gate to the platform was punched in the neck, the NYPD says. Police released surveillance photos of the woman wanted for questioning in the Norwood attack.

At around 3:35 pm on October 23, a 28-year-old woman was buying a MetroCard at the D Line subway station at 205 Street Police released a surveillance photo of the person, they say, and Perry Avenue. A wompunched a subway rider in the neck. an then came up to her and

offered to open the gate to the subway platform in exchange for $2.

The subway rider refused and the panhandler punched her in the neck.

The attacker then tried to steal the woman’s purse.

As they struggled, the attacker removed the victim’s eyeglasses and jacket before fleeing.

The attacker is described as a darkskinned adult female, approximately 6 foot 1, thin build, dark short hair and last seen wear-

ing a black jacket, light blue jeans and a white face mask under the chin.

Anyone with information is urged to call CRIMESTOPPERS at (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, on Twitter @NYPDTips.

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Culinary Road

By Morris Gut

Wicked Wolf’s taking over the Olde Stone Mill Driving by the Olde Stone Mill on Scarsdale Ave. in Tuckahoe/Yonkers, and you will notice a temporary sign out front: ‘The Wicked Wolf is coming!’ It turns out it is the same Wicked Wolf management that has been operating in the Bronx for just over 10 years. DiNapoli’s Olde Stone Mill had been for sale for quite some time. This would be a big change.

Out of curiosity, I visited The Wicked Wolf on E. Tremont Ave. in Throggs Neck on a recent rainy afternoon and I am glad I did. It is an upscale tavern with an eclectic menu that covers a lot of ground. NYC Covid protocols were in place. I had my temperature taken and signed in prior to taking a seat in the bar/lounge. It was my first time here. The staff was friendly and most eager to please.

I ordered a Corned Beef Sandwich with melted Swiss cheese. It came with steak fries, pickle, ketchup, and mustard. It had been warmed, hefty, and hearty. I enjoyed every bite! A couple of seasonal Sam Adams’ Oktoberfest brews helped wash it all down. There was a special Oktoberfest menu available, and my waitress said that many of these dishes often appeared on the regular menu.

By the way, the kitchen here is chef-driven. His name is Eric Meas. We chatted a bit when he came out of the kitchen. He told me that he had previously worked at the legendary Russian Tea Room in Manhattan among others.

From the look of the dishes being served to other tables,

they appeared to be nicely plated, generous, and more than typical.

I was curious, though. I had to confirm what I was seeing at the Olde Stone Mill in Westchester. There had been little action at that property for months. Well, it was confirmed by the staff.

They are coming to Yonkers and there will be some renovation to the vintage building and grounds. Proprietor Seamus Carey hopes to open the doors sometime in December.

The Wicked Wolf is located at 4029 E. Tremont Ave., Bronx. The restaurant is open 7 days a week for lunch, dinner & Sunday brunch.

Check website for current hours. Covid protocols in place. Indoor & outdoor seating. Take-out & delivery.

Semi-private party room. www.wickedwolfbronx.com MARIA SERVES UP VIBRANT FLAVORS IN NEW ROCHELLE!

Brothers Peter and Giovanni Cucullo have been shaking up the dining scene in New Rochelle for the past two years, drawing patronage from all over the metro area to their flavorful riff on Italian/global cooking. There is a lot of talent at work here in front and back of the house.

In its first year, Maria was one of the first restaurants in Westchester to be recognized by the prestigious Michelin Guide 2020 with a ‘Bib Gourmand’ designation.

Named after Mother, Maria is decorated with nostalgic memories from home: photos, artifacts, chandeliers. A mix of brick and color, exposed ceilings, old

Hearty corned beef & swiss sandwich with fries at the Wicked Wolf. and contemporary. The bar whipped potatoes, confit toma- New Rochelle. Appetizers: $9 to is separated from the dining toes, capers, elderflower; BBQ $18. Main courses: $21 to $30. room. Serious cocktails are Veal Minute Steak, jasmine rice, Happy Hours: small plates, $6.

914-636-0006 www.marianethe domain of Anthony, the cucumber salad, sesame; Seared wrochelle.com barkeep. The house mulls Sea Scallops, tomato farrotCHAZZ PALMINTERI TO OPEN RESTAURANT IN most of its drinks, and there to, porcini agrodolce; Charred Octopus, braised butter beans, WHITE PLAINS! are special squeeze bottles Former Bronx boy, actor, pickled peppers, salsa verde; lining the bar full of flavorful writer and restaurateur Chazz and 10 oz.

Premium Pork Chops, impact. A good selection of Palminteri and his partnership fingerling potatoes, rabe, peppacraft beers and curated wines are taking over the former Andews, fennel pollen. are on hand. thony’s Coal Fired Pizza on Getting back to his roots, Like the atmosphere, Chef Main St., White Plains. The new Gio serves an eclectic blend Chef Gio offers ‘Spinning the eatery will be called Chazz Palof changing signature special- Classics’: exemplary versions minteri Restaurant & Pizza. Palties. Great starters include: of Eggplant Parmigiana, Shrimp minteri is best known for his hit Real Deal Baked Clams pre- Francese, and Chicken Scarpari- 1993 film ‘A Bronx Tale’ which pared with pork fat; Salmon ello on the bone. was filmed in and around Arthur Love their happy hours Mon- Ave. in the Bronx ‘Little Italy’.

Tartare with smashed avocado, ginger, scallion, sesame day thru Friday from 3 p.m. to 7 Chazz has already put his name & tamari; and Creamy Burrata p.m. at the bar when they offer to a restaurant in mid-town with semi-dry tomatoes, pista- some of their favorite beverag- Manhattan in partnership with Jack Sinanaj, who also owns chios, aged balsamic & mint. es and small plates each loadBen & Jack’s Steakhouse and Maria’s Big Salad is a bowl of ed with flavor. I am already fresh veggies and legumes.

Hearty pastas include: Potato Gnocchi Oxtail Ragu, porcini, marsala, parmigiano; Pici Cacio Pepe, smoked pecorino crema, Telicherry pepper, scallion; classic Rigatoni Sunday Sauce with meatballs, sweet sausage, pork skin gravy; Black Linguine, shrimp, calamari, pomodoro, chile crumbs; and Wild Mushroom Ravioli, rosemary cream, rocket lettuce, Gouda.

Beautifully plated main courses include: Seared Branzino,

hooked on such eclectic dishes as: Glazed Pork Ribs, Truffled Green Beans, Grilled Kielbasa with sweet & spicy Peruvian peppers, Mom’s Meatballs, Cauliflower Fritters, and Roasted Shishito Peppers. Friendly staff, too. Good networking spot.

Kitchen hours at the moment: Monday & Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Wed. & Thursday, to 9 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, to 10 p.m. Closed Sunday. Covid guidelines in place.

Special Hint: The family also operates bustling Fratelli’s Pizza and Pops Café next door.

Maria’s, 11 Huguenot Street,

Empire Steakhouse in the city.

More details as they come available.

Chazz Palminteri Restaurant, 264 Main Street, White Plains.

914-600-8430 www.chazzpalminterinyc.com (Morris Gut is a restaurant marketing consultant for former restaurant trade magazine editor. He has been tracking and writing about the food and dining scene in the Bronx & Westchester for 30 years. He may be reached at: 914-2356591. Email: gutreactions@ optonline.net)

24• BRONX VOICE• November 4 - 10, 2020

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