Bronx Voice - October 18, 2023

BRONX VOICE

FREE

SMILING GIRLS PEPPER Compassionate SPRAY, Page 3 care for Breast Cancer SLASH RIVAL treatment

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7th Year, No. 10

October 18 - 24, 2023

Vigil held for terror victims in Israel unites Bx residents Page 6

Page 10

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2• BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023

Little red moped riding thief wanted for snatching cell phones

By Dan Gesslein Cops are looking for a little red moped riding thief who is suspected of snatching the cell phones out of the hands of women in at least three robberies throughout the Bronx.

In each case the scootering thief struck near a school in the Bronx. In each case he drove up to an unsuspecting woman and snatched the phone out of her hands. And in each case the suspect rode the same red scooter. In

Police are searching for a man riding a red moped who robbed three women of their cell phones.

one day the suspect struck twice within a two-minute period.

The first incident took place at around 1:45 pm on August 6. A 36-yearold woman was walking on the street in front of 873 Union Avenue in Long-

wood across the street from New Visions Charter School. The suspect rode by on his red moped and snatched the phone out of her hands.

On 9/11 the same crook robbed two women a block apart within a two-minute period, cops said. At around 1:22 pm on September 11, a 23-year-old woman was walking and talking on her cellphone in the vicinity of Kelly Street and Longwood Av-

enue. Cops said the man on the moped drove by and ripped the phone out of her hands.

Cops said the same suspect rode a block away and struck again. At around 1:24 pm on the same day, the thief ripped a cellphone out of the hands of a 26-year-old woman at 931 East 156th Street. The robbery took place across the street from Girls Prep Bronx Elementary Charter School.

Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the CrimeStoppers website at https:// crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/ or on Twitter @ NYPDTips.

All calls are strictly confidential.

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BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023• 3

Smiling girls pepper spray, cut up rival

for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA onto the CrimeStoppers web- @NYPDTips.

By Dan Gesslein (74782). The public can also site at https://crimestoppers.

All calls are strictly confiA trio of girls pepper sprayed, beat, and submit their tips by logging nypdonline.org/ or on Twitter dential. cut up a teenager during a dispute in the Bronx, cops said.

Police released surveillance video of the smiling suspects who are accused of viciously beating a 13-yearold girl in the Fordham Heights section of the Bronx.

At around 5:45 pm on October 2, the teen got into an argument with three young women in front of 365 Ford Street. Cops said the argument soon turned violent as one of the group pepper sprayed the 13-year old in the face.

Then all three women

wailed on the teen - punching and kicking the victim throughout the body. Cops said one of the group then took out a sharp object and slashed the girl in the back of the head.

The attackers fled northbound on Webster Avenue.

The victim refused medical attention at the scene.

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

4 • BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023

Scooter rider seriously injured in accident on Fordham Road

vestigation by the NYPD's the scene. However, the poBy David Greene Investigation lice official stated, "There A still-unidentified scooter rider re- Collision Squad determined that is no criminality suspected mains in serious condition and police vehicle # 1, a black 2023 at this time," but added the continue to investigate the incident after Jia Scooter (gas powered) investigation into the crash a crash along East Fordham Road in Bel- operated by a 20-year-old continues. male was traveling east"Jesenia," a mother livmont. bound on (East) Fordham ing on East 153 Street was Police officers from the 48th Precinct were called to the entrance of the Crotona Avenue underpass at East Fordham Road and Belmont Avenue at 9:28 a.m. on October 13, for a report of a motor vehicle collision.

One police official told the Bronx Voice, "Upon

arrival, officers observed a 20-year-old male, unconscious and unresponsive with trauma about the head. EMS responded to the location and transported the male aided to Elmhurst Hospital (and is) listed in critical condition.”

The police official continued, "Preliminary in-

walking along East Fordham Road when she came upon the crash scene as police blocked traffic into the underpass as investigators inspected the scooter and took photos of the scene.

The mom recalled an encounter a day earlier she had with a scooter as she and her daughter were crossing the street, and a scooter rider was turning.

Jesenia recalled, "It was not a big deal, but he was coming. He wasn't looking anywhere, and my daughter and I were crossing the street, he came very close."

Asked for her thoughts on scooter riders, she replied, "They don't care. They drive on the sidewalk, the wrong way. They don't care.”

Traffic was shut down at the entrance to the underpass for several hours as police conducted the investigation, and the scooter was eventually removed Photos by David Greene Police shut down traffic on Fordham Road entering the Crotona Avenue underpass along East and traffic was eventually reopened.

Fordham Road after a scooter rider was seriously injured on October 13.

Road and Belmont Avenue, on the outer-roadway lanes of traffic, when the operator of the scooter lost control and collided with the left side curb line on East Fordham Road.”

Initial reports over the police band radio stated that a second vehicle involved in the collision fled

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BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023• 5

Vigil held for terror victims in Israel unites residents

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6 • BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023

By David Greene Nearly 100 area residents gathered with local elected officials and clergy members as “An Evening of Unity and Solidarity Torah” event was held after more than a 1,200 soldiers and civilians were slaughtered in Israel.

The gathering was held at the Bronx Jewish Center located at 900 Pelham Parkway.

Speaking to many of the temple’s members, Rabbi Saadia Pewzner told members and guests, “As people there are many different approaches, many different reactions.

With one reaction we always have to remember that mankind can do better.”

Pewzner added, “Seeing the diverse group in this crowd shows a very powerful sentiment from the Bronx that doesn’t have to do with the religion, it doesn’t have to do with race. We’re

all part of the human race.”

Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark told those that had gathered, “It’s such a complicated world and for this to happen makes it so much more devastating because you see people there trying to work together and be together and coexist and it can happen and for Hamas to think that it’s okay to just do that and effect so many of us is just so wrong.”

Assemblyman John Zaccaro, Jr., (D-80) offered, “What took place this past weekend, the biggest and largest massacre of people who died at

Rabbi Saadia Pewzner speaks to congregants of the Bronx Jewish Center, community residents and elected officials during a special gathering.

the hands of terrorists since the holocaust and it’s been said as I look at this room, I’m reminded that there is more that unites us than divides us.”

Senator Gustavo Rivera (D-33) representing a portion of the East Bronx for the first

time after district lines were redrawn, Rivera said, “I mourn and I grieve for the lost lives and the horrendous and barbaric terrorist attack on the Jewish people and knowing that I certainly do not have wisdom enough to provide any an-

swers. What I can do and I will continue to do is stand in solidarity with my constituents and my sisters and brothers of the Jewish faith.”

An active member of the Israeli military was expected to speak but was unable to attend.

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BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023• 7

Health Matters 8 • BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023

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MHHC celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness with commitment to community health

Health Educator will provide

By Kayla Mercedes Lee this informative session.

MHHC (Morris Heights Health Cen- Wednesday, October 18th, ter) is pleased to announce a series of 2023 - Women’s Health Waiting Room Presentation Locaimpactful events to commemorate Breast tion: MHHC Harrison Circle Cancer Awareness Month this October. - 57 West Burnside Ave, Floor With a steadfast dedication to women's health and a focus on raising awareness about breast cancer, MHHC has orchestrated a comprehensive array of activities, fundraising events, and educational opportunities throughout the month.

These events seek to address the profound impact of breast cancer on women of color in underserved communities, a population that MHHC passionately serves in the Bronx and Brooklyn.

Breast cancer disproportionately affects women of color in underserved communities, who often face numerous barriers to accessing quality healthcare services and timely screenings. These communities contend with limited resources and socioeconomic challenges that can result in delayed diagnoses and limited access to vital information about breast health. MHHC's events aim to provide a platform for education and support, ensuring that women of color in underserved communities are equipped with the necessary tools to navigate the challenges associated with

breast cancer.

MHHC Breast Cancer Awareness Month Event Schedule Friday, October 6th, 2023 Breast Cancer Event Kick-Off Location: MHHC - 85 West Burnside Ave, Training Room Time: 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM The kickoff event will highlight the significance of breast care as an essential form of self-care. Dr. Gruenberg will lead discussions underscoring that breast health is an integral component of overall women's health. Additionally, an Empire Blue Cross Health Educator will offer valuable insights and distribute giveaways. Attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy light refreshments.

Wednesday, October 11th, 2023 - Waiting Room Presentation Location: MHHC Walton - 25 East 183rd Street, Lobby Time: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM During this presentation, attendees will gain valuable insights into breast care through discussions of facts, statistics, signs, symptoms, and risk factors. An Empire Blue Cross

B2 Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM This presentation will feature a mobile mammography screening with St. Barnabas Mobile Bus, promoting early detection. Julienne Borelli from the American Cancer Society will share essential information about screening and detection, diagnosis, and treatment. Attendees can also look forward to giveaways to encourage and motivate participation.

Every Friday in October, MHHC encourages staff to participate in Jeans Day by wearing jeans with any pink T-shirt, blouse, shirt, or an MHHC T-shirt from previous years' events in exchange for a $5 donation. This not only promotes a sense of unity but also raises funds for a crucial cause.

The last Friday of the month, in addition to the final Jeans Day, MHHC will also be hosting the Breast Cancer Events Finale, featuring a survivor’s story, an Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield sponsored Pink Power Party, a presentation of gifts and bouquets to a special guest, a balloon release, and light refresh-

ments.

Friday, October 27th, 2023 Breast Cancer Events Finale All proceeds generated from MHHC's Breast Cancer Awareness Month events will be donated to the American Cancer Society, a vital organization in the fight against breast cancer.

For additional information about these events, please contact Karen James via email at KJames@mhhc.org or at 718716-4400 extension 2698.

MHHC eagerly looks forward to welcoming the community and its staff to these impactful events and hopes to witness a collective effort in raising awareness and supporting breast health this October.

Beyond Breast Cancer Awareness Month, MHHC remains unwavering in its

commitment to breast cancer prevention within the community it serves. The organization recognizes the profound impact of breast cancer on women's health. To proactively promote prevention, MHHC offers comprehensive breast health education and access to regular screenings, emphasizing the importance of early detection. Through awareness initiatives, events, and accessible healthcare services, MHHC empowers women to take control of their health and reduce their risk of breast cancer. This dedication to prevention underscores MHHC's mission of enhancing the well-being of its community, one woman's health at a time. One distinctive aspect of MHHC's i CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

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BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023• 9

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10 • BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023

New Monte breast center brings

compassionate, comprehensive care

By Sheldon M. Feldman, M.D., chief, Breast Surgery & Surgical Oncology and director, Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center (MECCC) Breast Cancer Services, and Laura J. Hodges, M.D., director, Breast Imaging & Interventions at MECCC and assistant professor of Radiology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine “Mom, are you going to be ok?”

Michele Eiley was lying in bed with her daughter one day after work last October when she found a lump in her breast.

Although she was in shock, when her daughter asked what was wrong, she told her daughter she was fine. After that, Michele immediately scheduled a mammogram appointment at Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center (MECCC) to get more information.

Michele, a 47-year-old mother of two teenage girls, soon discovered she had stage 2 breast cancer. She immediately realized she needed to prioritize taking care of herself to make a full recovery. Over the past year, she has had surgery, breast reconstruction and chemotherapy. She is currently receiving radiation treatment at MECCC. For women like Michele, cancer adds to the many items already on their plate.

That is why our new breast center was designed to have screening studies, advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgery, plastic & reconstructive surgery, a highrisk breast cancer prevention and lymphedema prevention program, as well as genetic counseling under one roof.

Complemented by services like medical & radiation oncology, nutrition, and access to our Bronx Oncology Living Daily (BOLD) wellness and support program, it is

imperative that people have ONE place where their comprehensive care needs are addressed.

The goal of our breast center, which is located at 1250 Waters Place on the 7th Floor of Tower 1, is to provide every person with an unparalleled level of evaluation and care. When someone has a breast lump, abnormal mammogram or ultrasound result, surgeons and radiologists immediately have a consultation with patients, and together, determine next steps in “real-time” to expedite care and reduce the need for women having to come back for potentially repetitive appointments or procedures.

Tackling Disparities in our Community Women of color are at greater risk of being diagnosed at later stages and with more aggressive cancers.

There is also a national trend showing Black and Hispanic women are being diagnosed with breast cancer at younger ages, which is why screening is so important.

We recommend that once women turn 40 they have a screening mammogram every year. Women with a family history of breast cancer or dense breasts should talk with their physician since they may need to begin screening sooner or schedule

a screening ultrasound.

Screening mammograms can pick up cancers before they can be felt, or before any symptoms arise. When breast cancer is found early, there are more opportunities for less aggressive treatments and reducing the risk of cancer spreading beyond the breast, which is referred to as metastasis.

Screening is so important, and our research is finding more and more reasons this is the case.

At MECCC, we discovered that breast metastasis occurs through what we call “doorways.” These “doorways,” or portals, allow cancer cells to enter the blood stream and spread from the breast to other parts of the body – and these “doorways” are common in Black women when compared to their white counterparts.

Medications are being developed to close these doorways to prevent cancer from spreading.

Only by having our community members come in for screening and participating in clinical trials (at MECCC we have approximately 320+), can we begin to understand and tackle these disparities, and develop personalized treatment plans for every person who comes through our doors.

What You Can Do This

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Over the course of this October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month), we urge people in our community to schedule an appointment to get screened. Technology is making screening more effective and more comfortable for people seeking care than ever before.

At our new center the Senographe Pristina 3D mammography system from GE HealthCare, even gives women a handheld remote, allowing them to determine breast compression levels during their mammograms. These are just some of the many elements at our new breast center that enable women to regain a sense of control.

We also have a new phone number, 844-BREAST6, for all breast needs, and on Saturday, October 21, we will hold our 15th annual Edward S. Greenwald, M.D., Breast Screening Event at our new center from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. This screening event is free for people without documentation or insurance.

Results will be provided the same day.

To register for a screening, you can call 844-BREAST6 or 929-246-6300, Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and please know that we are here for you.

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BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023• 11

MHHC celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness with commitment to community health CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

-nitiative is its unwavering commitment to breast cancer screening. The collaboration with the St. Barnabas Health mobile unit plays a pivotal role in providing mammogram screenings to residents facing challenges in accessing healthcare services. This partnership enhances accessibility and underscores MHHC's dedication to making healthcare available to all.

Every October, MHHC sets up a fundraising table dedicated to collecting

donations and promoting breast cancer awareness.

The table is open to patients, staff, and members of our community. It is located at MHHC’s main location at 85 W Burnside Ave in the lobby next to the WIC office.

At this table, individuals can not only contribute to the fight against breast cancer but also acquire a range of awareness merchandise, including fashionable t-shirts, accessories, pens, pins, and stickers. The funds raised from these efforts go directly toward supporting the battle

against breast cancer. But the MHHC's fundraising table is more than just a platform for breast cancer merchandise, it serves as a sanctuary, a place of grace, and a support system for anyone willing to share their personal survival stories or those of family members, patients, friends, or co-workers affected by this disease. Breast cancer survivors and the broader community deeply appreciate the importance of MHHC's breast cancer initiative.

Year after year, loyal supporters eagerly participate

in these events to ensure that the organization's goals and objectives are met.

The community's active involvement in these efforts is profoundly moving. Many of the staff at MHHC are from the very communities they serve, often doubling as patients who seek services at the center. This close-knit bond ensures that individuals facing breast cancer feel less isolated during their journey. The support provided is immeasurable, highlighting the profound impact of compassionate community

involvement. It underscores the critical importance of breast health awareness initiatives that extend beyond clinical care, demonstrating the potential of each individual to make a significant difference in someone's life.

The dynamic team that collaborates to organize MHHC's yearly breast cancer initiative finds joy and inspiration in their roles, emphasizing the pivotal role these events play in raising awareness about breast health and offering unwavering support to the entire community.

12 • BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023

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Physical therapy is a journey,

Here are some tips on navigating the ‘Voyage’

By Sanjeev Sinha, Physical Therapist, with their physical therapists prevent falls and further inju- include introduction of an and see them as part of their ry, and can also be helpful in exercise schedule, a list of VNS Health support system, they tend regaining strength, coordina- things to avoid, and what to As a physical therapist for the last 16+ to be more motivated to put tion, and independence, it is do if additional assistance is the hard work, which im- important that it is the right needed. In addition, family years with the home health nonprofit in proves their outcomes. Also, fit. caregivers can play an imVNS Health, working in the Bronx, I’ve on a practical level, being Develop a Care Plan with portant role in helping a paClear Goals tient, so educating them on seen patients facing a myriad of chal- in the patient’s home allows to see what challenges A care plan based on your care is just as important. lenges, from stroke survivors to cancer me their home poses…and we personal goals will be deTrack Progress, Adjust patients, to older adults recovering from can discuss ways to make it veloped to make certain that When Needed to get around, through a clear line of communicaWith each session, your falls and much more. But no matter what easier mobility aids, or focusing on tion is open, priorities are physical therapist will take brings a patient to us, it always brings specific exercises. aligned, and rehabilitation is note of your progress and asIn recognition of Nationoptimized. This way, we are sess whether your care plan me joy to help patients become more inTherapy Month, moving toward the same des- needs to be rearranged or acdependent in their homes after they are alherePhysical are a few pointers about tination. celerated. Close observation released from the hospital. the many ways physical ther- Encourage Physical Activ- is key to proper care and full Over the course of my career, I’ve often been asked about my favorite part of the job, and my response is always the same: there’s nothing better than seeing one of my former patients out for a walk. They’ll yell out to me by my nickname, “San!” when they see me going to visits in the neighborhood, and when I turn around those smiles are the best to see— it’s the smile of regained independence.

Our physical therapy team sees patients who are recovering from a wide variety of health concerns. Whether it’s a crippling injury, a stroke, a major surgery, or a debilitating condition, my colleagues and I provide the help that is necessary to regain strength, coordination, and balance.

My patients and I work together as a team to develop goals for recovery and create a plan of care that helps them build skills and confidence, they need to safely regain independence. It’s inspiring to see someone go from some of their toughest days to starting to feel independent again. And the impact of physical therapy goes beyond “physical” --as patients get their strength back, their mental health also significantly improves.

Working so closely with patients in their homes, it's not uncommon to form a close bond with them. Many of the patients I help live by themselves, and I may be the only person they see and speak with that day. I’ve also found that when patients connect

apy can benefit you on your healing journey, and how your physical therapist can work with you to provide optimal rehabilitation at home.

Assess Safety The very first thing I do when visiting a new patient is assess the safety of their home environment. This means ensuring that the home is clear of obstruction and screened for falls risks. A safe recovery cannot be made in a cluttered environment.

Adjust Equipment For patients who use mobility equipment, we will work with them to ensure that they are properly adjusted. For example, if a walker is too short, the patient will have to hunch over to use it, which isn’t ideal. And because mobility devices can

ity Movement is a “use it or lose it” skill, and there is no magic pill to regain strength.

You have to put in the work.

Keeping active is an essential part of recovery, and you will work with your physical therapist to develop exercise programs to target trouble areas, enhance balance and coordination, build up strength and stamina, and maintain muscle mass. Most importantly, this will be done safely and in a way that doesn’t put excessive strain on the body.

Educate on Proper Care Physical therapy doesn’t end when your therapist leaves. With the goal of regaining independence, your physical therapist will teach you proper around-the-clock rehabilitation, which may

recovery. When undergoing physical therapy, it’s natural to feel discouraged by challenge, or lack of independence, but observing your progress will show you how far you’ve come–one step at a time.

Don’t Give Up! Physical therapy is tough for many, but physical therapists are here to help you regain function and find a way to move towards a healthy future. Staying motivated is half the challenge, but your PT will be by your side cheering you on, and there to help when you have setbacks.

For more information about VNS Health’s Rehabilitation Services, which include physical therapy, speech pathology and occupational therapy, visit https://www.vnshealth.org/ home-care/rehabilitation-therapy/.

Early morning fire guts stores in Norwood www.bronxvoicenyc.blogspot.com

BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023• 13

By Dan Gesslein & David Greene Store owners in the Bronx were left picking through the pieces of what was left of their businesses after an early morning fire gutted seven stores in Norwood.

FDNY officials said the fire broke out at around 4 am starting at Bainbridge Avenue and East 204th Street. It quickly spread to the other attached stores which included an Italian market, a halal store, a bakery and a Mexican grocery store.

One firefighter was injured while battling the early morning blaze.

The Bronx Voice was on hand as shop owners looked on the charred remains of

their businesses. An aerial view shows the roof of the connecting businesses completely burned away leaving charred wood that collapsed into the stores.

“It was a 100 x 100 what we call a ‘taxpayer.’ On arrival units found heavy fire throughout the structure,” said FDNY Assistant John Sarrocco. “We started an interior attack. Unfortunately due to structural stability concerns, we had to pull our units

Photos by David Greene

The hollowed out remains of stores on Bainbridge Avenue after a fire gutted the roof and interiors of the stores.

out and did a tower ladder operation. At the present time we have one minor injury to a firefighter and currently it’s under investigation, the fire is under investigation.”

"What happens in a fire like this is the

space between the top of the ceiling and the roof system called the cockloft area and when the fire gets into that area it spreads exponentially throughout the building,” Sarrocco said.

Community leaders

said this the second time the fire has devastated this row of stores.

Around Halloween in 2009 the entire row of stores was burned down and had to be rebuilt.

Fire officials are investigating the cause of the blaze.

Culinary Road 14 • BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023

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By Morris Gut

Where to celebrate ‘Day of the Dead’

‘Day of the Dead’ is a public holiday in Mexico from October 31st to November 2nd, when villages gather to commemorate deceased family members.

There are costumes, parades, and rituals, but it has no relation to Halloween. It is a derivative of All Saint’s Day. It’s an especially festive time to visit your favorite southof-the-border eatery and take part in the customs, traditions, and good food. It often starts with a good Margarita or shot of tequila. Here are a few suggestions…

‘LOS MUERTOS’ DEALS AT CANTINA TACO, WHITE PLAINS! Owner, host, and actor John Solo, of bustling Cantina Taco & Tequila in White Plains, is offering a 3-taco lunch for $9.95. New bustling happy hours Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 pm include tacos from $2.95. A new Street Bowl is available with a choice of protein, for $8.95.

Might be a good time for one of their frozen drinks, too.

Cantina is a playful, colorful restaurant. A bright aqua pastel façade attracts along Mamaroneck Ave. They serve a bouncy menu

of reasonably priced south-ofthe-border fare. Try the new Birria Tacos, Cheeseburger Tacos, Empanadas and such ongoing house specialties as: 3-cheese Quesadilla, Carnitas, Chicken Mole, Garlic Shrimp, and Steak Fajita. Cantina Taco & Tequila, 166 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. Open 7 days. 914-461-3959. www. cantinawhiteplains.com RIO BRAVO Rio Bravo in Larchmont is a sprawling 200-seat environment strewn with colorful Mexican art and artifacts, and multiple seating areas with a big galloping bar/lounge for socializing. Brothers Edgar and Hector Brambila operate another Rio Bravo in Crestwood/Tuckahoe. The menu is loaded with flavorful surprises: Tacos; Fajitas Texanas combo with steak, chicken & shrimp; Southwestern Chicken Caesar Salad, a twist to the traditional Caesar; and Square Knot Salmon, achiote and lemon seared salmon with roasted pineapple. General Manager Omar and his staff will take good care of you.

Large selection of Tequilas at the bar and you can also build your own Margarita. Happy Hours. Rio Bravo, 1879 Palm-

er Ave., Larchmont. 914-3411546 www.riobravotacosandtequila.com RANCHO GRANDE Mexican food and culture meld beautifully with celebration and big, sprawling Rancho Grande Mexican Restaurant in the Highridge Shopping Plaza along Central Park Ave., Yonkers offers an exciting environment. Owner Mary Maloney and general manager and host Jose Perez take you on their tasty south-of-the-border tour. It is a multi-faceted 320 seat dining room and bar/ lounge strewn with colorful art and artifacts. There is a lot of

flavors in the Botanita Grande, a combination platter; Guacamole prepared tableside; sizzling Fajitas with your choice of fillings; Alambre Mar Y Tierra, steak, chicken, shrimp, with mixed vegetables, white rice and chili poblano sauce; and the Paella Luisita. There is a vegetarian version, too.

Daily Happy Hours: 4 to 7 pm. Weekend entertainment schedule. Private party facilities. Free parking. Rancho Grande, 1789 Central Park Ave., Yonkers. 914-337-3056 www.ranchograndemex.com GUAPO COCINA MEXICANO

This is a unique Mexican/ Cuban fusion eatery in downtown Yonkers with a colorful dining room and bar. The Mexican specialties coming out of this kitchen are top notch and loaded with flavor.

Enjoy their fresh made enchilada and taco combinations, Camarones a la Diabla, jumbo shrimp seared in a spicy sauce served with tortilla; delicious Chiles Rellenos, queso blanco cheese filled poblano peppers in a tomato broth; and Parillada Tradicional, with steak, shrimp, pork, cactus, and onions. Bar & cocktails. Munici CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Mount hosts College Fair

BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023• 15

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On October 4th of more than 60 colleges/ universities, military branches, and the

FDNY came together Students and parfor Mount St. Michael ents from high schools Academy’s evening throughout the Bronx College Fair. filled the gym to learn about the college application process as they make decisions about their future.

Students were able to meet one-on-one with admission counselors at their booths to discuss entrance requirements, campus life, application deadlines and majors.

Photos by Bill Ludwig

Where to celebrate ‘Day of the Dead’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

pal parking. Guapo Cucina Mexicano, 10 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914-920-5900 www. guaporestaurant.com CATRINA TAQUERIA Throwing another Mexican sombrero into the ring in White Plains, brothers David and Richard Zavala have premiered Catrina Taqueria at the site of the former Splendid Coffee Shop at the corner of Mamaroneck Ave. & Quarropas St. Extensive renovations have given the space a playful atmosphere with counter and dining room seating. Colorful Mexican artifacts strewn throughout. There is a bustling open kitchen. Brothers Zavala also operate Excelencia Mexicana in Mahopac. Catrina Taqueria,

106 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. 914-368-8470 www.catrinataqueria.com Excelencia Mexicana, 551 Route 6, Mahopac. 845-628-3767 www.excelenciamexicana.com SALSA PICCANTE David Dolores and partners have brought their casual Mexican dining concept to White Plains. The original Salsa Picante has been operating in Port Chester for years. Dolores has taken the 3-story building along Mamaroneck Ave. and given it a colorful burst of south-of-theborder pizzazz. The street level will offer a blackboard menu of popular specialties, mid-level a more formal dining experience, and the dramatic rooftop, signature cocktails and events.

Check out the skeletons climb-

ing the wall. There are special events like taco days and fajita nights, too. Salsa Picante, 359 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. 914-358-1880 www.salsapicantemex.com WINTER HUDSON VALLEY RESTAURANT WEEK, OCT. 3O-NOV. 12TH! This popular dining promotion originally created and sponsored by The Valley Table Magazine includes approximately 150 restaurants, past participants and some new from all over the Hudson Valley even stretching the borders into Scarsdale, White Plains, Mamaroneck, and New Rochelle. Patrons are always anxious to cash in on the seasonal bounty at reasonable prices. Restaurants are expected to offer 3-course lun-

cheons and dinners for $24.95, $29.95, or $39.95 or $44.95.

Beverage, tax & tip are not included. Dine-in or take-out.

Sometimes there are caveats, so be sure to verify the hours and the menus. Reservations are advised. For additional information and an up-to-date list of participating restaurants go to: https://valleytable.com/restaurant-week/ BRONX NIGHT MARKET FINALE, OCT. 28th!

The popular Bronx Night Market will hold its final event from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on October 28th. Tickets must be reserved through the website.

There are scores of Bronxbased vendors and food trucks including Crabmeat Mike, Empanada Papa, Fried Lasagna

Mama, Hungarian Hotspot, Mixto Tacos, and Island Love Cake all selling food, drink, crafts, and live entertainment.

It all takes place at: Fordham Plaza, East Fordham Road and Webster Ave. Belmont, The Bronx. For more info: https:// www.maschospitalitygroup. com/bronxnightmarket , or Bronx Night Market on Facebook.

(Morris Gut is a restaurant consultant and former restaurant trade magazine editor. He has been tracking and writing about the food and dining scene in the Bronx and Westchester for over 30 years. He may be reached at: 914-235-6591. E-mail: gutreactions@optonline.net)

16 • BRONX VOICE• October 18 - 24, 2023

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