Bronx Voice - October 6, 2021 - Think Pink

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10 YEARS FOR SPEEDSTER WHO KILLED SENIOR IN CONCOURSE Breast Cancer Page Awareness CRASH 4 www.bronxvoiceny.blogspot.com

5th Year, No. 12

Domestic violence Page 5 charges against state senator dropped

Men in Black locale gutted Photo by David Greene

Covid kills Will Smith’s Bronx film site Page 2

Pages 9 - 16

October 6 - 12, 2021

2• BRONX VOICE• October 6 - 12, 2021

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Van Nest Lanes falls victim to Covid

Site of Men in Black, American Gangster, The Irishman gutted

By David Greene Having been forced to close when the coronavirus lockdown took effect in March of 2020, the once popular Van Nest Lanes bowling alley has closed its doors forever after serving the community for over 50 years.

Workers have been busy dismantling the Van Nest Lanes, located at 1756 Bronxdale Avenue, after the business didn't survive the lockdown of 2020. On September 25 workers

were observed carting out tables and lockers and this past weekend were seen tearing up the concrete in order to remove the original hardwood floors that many bowling alleys to-

Photo by David Greene

Demolition crews have begun dismantling the Van Nest Lanes bowling alley as the popular family recreation center is now officially closed after more than 50 years.

day no longer use.

Bernadette Ferrara, the President of the Van Nest Neighborhood Alliance said of the bowling alley's closure, "Van Nest Lanes was an iconic business that had all the leagues playing there... It was used in three or four films." Ferrara, who has bowled at Van Nest since age 11, added, "The floors are all original wood which other lanes do not have... So sad that COVID killed so many great places like this.”

Al D'Angelo. President of the Morris Park Community Association added, "It's been a staple in the neighborhood for years. It gave people a place to go without leaving the community. You had leagues, many of the parents who live in the community belonged to leagues at the Van Nest Lanes and now as you look around, most of the lanes are closed.”

"This was a neighborhood staple," D'Angelo

continued, "and it will be sorely missed and they were very good for the community, they donated to everything the community did, very community minded. They had bowling for kids, bowling for adults. It's a big loss.”

The Van Nest Lanes was also a shooting location for three major motion pictures, the 2007 film 'American Gangster' starring Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe, the 2012 film 'Men in Black 3' starring Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones, and the 2019 film 'The Irishman' starring Robert De Niro and Al Pacino.

With the closure of the Van Nest Lanes it's believed that just two bowling alleys remain across the borough, the Gun Post Lanes on East Gun Hill Road in the Laconia section and Bowlerland on Hollers Avenue in Co-op City.

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Speedster sentenced in fatal Concourse crash that killed senior

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By David Greene A Williamsbridge man who was convicted of manslaughter and assault after a horrific crash along the Grand Concourse-- was sentenced to four to ten-years in prison.

David Fennell, 49, was behind the wheel of a 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 350, as he sped along the Grand Concourse at East 175 Street

at 11 a.m. on May 18, 2018. Officials say Fennell sideswiped several vehicles, and smashed into a wooden fence surrounding a tree, before

Photo by David Greene

Skid marks and debris litter the Grand Concourse after David Fennell's 2009 Mercedes-Benz struck several vehicles that resulted in the death of Barbara Hendricks in a crash that took place on May 18, 2018.

slamming into a 2006 Chevy Malibu.

The Chevy Malibu, driven by Daisy Bonilla, 51, was pushed into the crosswalk where Bonilla's vehicle struck Barbara Hendricks, 74, who had been crossing the intersection with a walker that was destroyed.

Hendricks suffered a traumatic brain injury, a broken pelvis and other broken bones and was intubated and placed in a long term care facility.

Hendricks died as a result of her injuries on March 25, 2020. Bonilla also suffered a brain injury, lacerations, bruises and back pain, but survived.

Fennell was arrested after the crash and was arrested again on July 28, 2020, when charges were upgraded to manslaughter after Hendricks' death.

After Fennell's sentencing, Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark issued a statement, saying, "The defendant was driving at

least 62 miles an hour in a 25 mile-per-hour zone and struck multiple cars.

He rear-ended one of the vehicles and propelled it into a 74-year-old woman who was crossing the street.”

Clark added, "The driver was injured, and the pedestrian died of her injuries two years later.

Reckless drivers will be held accountable for their actions. I hope this sentence gives the victims and their families a measure of healing from this trauma.”

Fennell was found guilty after a bench trial on July 16.

On September 22, Bronx Supreme Court Justice Steven Barrett sentenced Fennell to three to nine years for the second-degree manslaughter charge in Hendricks' death and one year for a third-degree assault charge for the injuries Bonilla suffered.

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Charges against Sepulveda dropped

By David Greene The Bronx District Attorney has dropped all charges against Senator Luis Sepulveda, who was charged with choking his estranged wife at his West Farms home back on January 9.

meet (the) burden of proof." The source added, "The complaining witness no longer wants to testify."

The dismissal of the case prompted Sepulveda to Tweet, "Today, the office of the Bronx A source at the Bronx (Luis) Sepulveda was District Attorney anDistrict Attorney's of- dismissed today. We nounced the matter befice stated on October moved to dismiss be- fore the court has been 4, "The case against cause we are unable to resolved. I have great respect for the judicial process, which was thorough and diligent."

Sepulveda added, "I now plan to move forward and focus on my family and the community I represent.”

Photo by David Greene According to the Senator Luis Sepulveda had no comment after giving out toys to NYPD, officers from children in Soundview 48 hours after his arrest on January 13, 2021 during an arguement with his wife. The charges were recently all the 48th Precinct were dropped in the domestic violence case.

called to Sepulveda's home on Daily Avenue on January 9, when the 56-year-old Sepulveda and his 40-year-old estranged wife accused each other of assault.

Sepulveda later surrendered to police and was charged with choking his wife, a single misdemeanor charge of "obstruction of breathing.”

At the start of the New Year Sepulveda was considered a front runner for Bronx Borough President, but lost support and Assemblywoman Nathalia Fernandez and Councilman Fernando Cabrera, who were also both running for Borough President

as well as a host of others, called for Sepulveda's resignation. Fernandez Tweeted at the time, "Unfortunately, this is not the first time allegations of domestic violence has been brought against Senator Sepulveda. We need leadership that empowers women.”

Sepulveda, who lost his father Caleb Sepulveda at the end of August, has not announced his plans for when his term ends at the end of the year and he leaves his $110,000 a year post.

Attempts to reach Sepulveda's estranged wife, believed to be living in Florida, were unsuccessful.

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NYC schools to begin screening students for social-emotional skills next month This story was originally published in ChalkBeat NYC.

By Reema Amin Principal Emily Paige wanted to shift the culture of her school. Her Brooklyn middle school, Urban Assembly Unison, had landed on the state’s list of low-performing schools five years ago and saw several reported incidents of disruptive or violent behavior.

Paige turned to her network of Urban Assembly schools for help, and they suggested her staff use a 10-minute online screener for each child to understand their social-emotional skills.

Paige believes it was a first step in improving trust between students and staff and building an entire social-emotional curriculum at Unison.

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Photo by Gabby Jones for Chalkbeat

Pan American High School students complete COVID screening forms on the first day of school. Starting next month, schools will start screening students to understand their social-emotional health following nearly two years of disruption to in-person school.

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Lehman Center concets return

Celebrate the excitement of the merengue!

Lehman Center for the Performing Arts is proud to present MIRIAM CRUZ, ALEX BUENO, and BONNY CEPEDA as they come together for a night dedicated to the beauty of the Merengue musical genre on Saturday, October 9th, 2021 at 8 pm.

In this celebratory concert, MIRIAM CRUZ, “La Diva”, will bring us a selection of songs from her beginnings in the Las Chicas del Can Orchestra, such as "Juana La Cubana", "Ta' Pillao", "Pequeñas Cosas", "Sin El", a s

well as some of her greatest solo hits: "La Loba", "Es Cosa de Él", "La Carnada", and more!

ALEX BUENO, “El Mayimbito”, one of the most well-rounded singers in the Dominican Republic, dominates the genres Bachata, Salsa, Balada, Boleros and of course Merengue! With a wide range of successful

Miriam Cruz

songs, audiences will enjoy their favorite hits like; "Que vuelva", "Que Cara Mas Bonita", "Me muero por ella", "A donde vayas", "Colegiala", and "La Radio".

BONNY CEPEDA, the singer, pianist, composer, and arranger from the Dominican Republic, who was the first merengue artist to be nominated for a Grammy for his album Noche de Discotheque, will be joined as a special guest, by his brother, the merengue singer RICHIE CEPEDA. Lehman Center for the Performing Arts is on the campus of Lehman College/ CUNY at 250 Bedford Park Boulevard West, Bronx, NY 10468.

Tickets for UNA NOCHE CON EL MERENGUE on Saturday, October 9th,

Alex Bueno 2021 at 8pm ($100, $65, gue group Las Chicas $50, $45 and $35) can del Can, releasing many be purchased by call- hit albums including ing the Lehman Center 1985’s Chicán and box office at 718-960- 1991’s Nada Común.

8833 (Monday through In 1993, she made her Thursday, 10am–5pm, solo debut with Nueva and beginning at 4pm on Vida which spawned the day of the concert), the smash hits “Tómaor through online access lo Tú”, “La Loba”, and at www.LehmanCenter. “Te Propongo”. After org. focusing on her actI M P O R T A N T ing career for several COVID-19 SAFETY years, she returned to INFORMATION: In or- her musical roots and der to keep our staff, au- won the 2014 Soberadiences, and artists safe, no Merengue of the Year proof of vaccination and Award for “Esa Loca”. masks will be required to Her recent albums inattend any performances clude 2016’s Miriam at Lehman Center for the Collection featuring the Performing Arts in ac- hit songs “Es Cosa de cordance with the May- Él” and “Es Necesario”, or’s Office of the City of and 2017’s Salí De Ti. New York.

ALEX BUENO, MIRIAM CRUZ is “the most tender voice a merengue singer and of merengue,” was born actress from the Do- in San José de las Maminican Republic who tas, Dominican Repubstarted her profession- lic and began singal career as the lead ing and playing guitar at a vocalist of the suc- very young age. His CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 cessful female meren-

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Preston alum reunite after Covid After 16 months of postponement due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Preston High School hosted an Alumnae Re-

union for class years ending in 0s, 5s, 1s, and 6s on Saturday, September 18th.

The double celebra-

tion began with Mass, followed by a delicious luncheon catered by Posto 22 in the cafeteria and back porch with

alumnae from various years in attendance.

With great joy and excitement, members from the classes of 1955

Members of the Class of 1970 celebrating their 51st high school reunion alongside Sr. Carol Wagner, RDC '69 (bottom right).

and 1956, were in attendance and recognized for celebrating their 66th and 65th reunion, respectively.

The Class of 1970, the largest class ever to graduate from Preston, was ecstatic to celebrate their 51st reunion together and had the biggest turnout at the event. Those present and celebrating a milestone anniversary were recognized individually with a rose, which Nancy Weihe ‘70 said was “such a beautiful symbol of the love and friendships we’ve had at Preston, what a wonderful and heartwarming reunion!”

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Breast Cancer Awareness in the Age of Covid

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Increasing awareness and prevention for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

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By Richard Dal Col, MD The start of October means the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

This year as the country grapples with COVID-19, it’s more important than ever to stay on top of one’s health and increase awareness of this devastating disease.

According to the American Cancer Society, roughly one in eight women will develop breast cancer over the course of their lifetime. Every year, nearly 16,000 New Yorkers suffer from breast cancer and over 2,500 lose their lives. Over the last 10 years, the number of deaths and the diagnosis rate for females in the Bronx has steadily increased. Unfortunately, these numbers will continue to rise if serious precautions are not taken by those at risk.

During this important awareness month, we want to share four easy tips for all Bronx residents: Be aware of your risks Risk factors, including family history, gene mutations, or exposure to radiation, can increase the potential risk of breast cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends maintaining a healthy weight and limiting alcohol intake.

The first step is to be aware of your risk factors and to discuss them with your medical provider.

Make sure you self-screen Self-exams are an important part of the process when it comes to early detection.

Regular screenings will help you understand what is normal, so you can easily detect any changes and report them to a health

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care professional as soon as they occur.

The earlier the detection, the better.

Keep in mind, self-exams are the most common way that breast cancer is discovered—especially for women younger than 50 years old.

Get routine screenings Annual breast exams are the primary screening tool recommended every one to three years for women 25 to 39 years of age.

For women 40 and older, Mammography is the primary tool for women 40 and

older for screenings.

Getting screened frequently is the most effective way to reduce your risk by detecting something early on. Talk to your doctor about getting a screening. And, always call your doctor immediately if you have any concerns between screenings.

Know the symptoms Breast cancer symptoms can vary, but generally, early signs can include: skin changes in the breast(s) such as swelling or redness, change in the shape, or general pain and irritability in that part of the body. Monthly

self-exams can help you notice early signs of symptoms.

Each October, the country raises awareness about breast cancer, but it should remain on our minds year-round. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor and make a plan to get a mammogram.

And don’t be afraid to ask for support from a loved one if you feel afraid or unsure—nobody is in this alone.

Visit our website for more information.

Dr. Richard Dal Col serves as Chief Medical Officer for the EmblemHealth family of companies.

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Morris Heights Health goes Pink

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By India Dansby During the Fall of 2020, there was eerie silence that filled the NYC streets.

Under normal circumstances, thousands of breast cancer survivors and supporters garbed in pink would be meandering through Central Park to raise awareness about a disease that affects 1 in 8 women in the U.S. However, in 2020 another health crisis plagued the country, COVID-19.

Outside of wearing face masks and adhering to mandated stay-at-home orders, health & charitable organizations were forced to find other ways to educate individuals on breast cancer, early detection, prevention methods, and treatment.

The pandemic had a significant impact causing delays to health screenings, elective surgeries and even fundraising activities. Still, raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research and development was imperative for maintaining a healthy population.

Thus, for the safety of participants, many or-

ganizations held events virtually instead of the usual in-person to despite the challenges that come with virtual engagement and fundraising.

This October, Morris Heights Health Center (MHHC) is looking forward to celebrating breast cancer awareness month with both in-person & virtual events. MHHC is hosting their annual Morris Heights Health Goes Pink campaign that will include a month-long series of fundraising events, educational programs, informational pamphlets and much more for staff and patients to engage in. This year’s events commenced on October 4th with an informative breast education session led by their Women’s Health Department. Other events will include: • A wear your jeans to work day in support of breast cancer.

• A staff fundraising car wash event.

• A breast cancer awareness t-shirt and merchandise sale.

• A fundraising bake sale.

• A breast cancer

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awareness month closing ceremony.

All proceeds from the events will be donated to the American Cancer Society. MHHC will end their month-long observance with a comprehensive breast education forum for the community that will feature presentations from their Radiology, Family Planning and Women’s Health Departments. The closing ceremony is also scheduled to broadcast live via the health center’s Facebook and Instagram accounts for community members to participate in. The event will include survivor testimonies and the release of balloons at their Burnside

Avenue location to commemorate individuals who lost their battle with the disease and the ones currently battling the disease and breast cancer survivors.

Karen James, Dir. Of Patient Relations is one of the guest speakers scheduled to share her testimony at this year’s closing ceremony. “Early detection saved my life,” expressed Ms. James.

“There were no lumps or abnormality to my breast that was visible to the naked eye. So, when I received the news that I needed to follow-up with a breast surgeon for further evaluation I was in CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Karen James, Director of Patient Relations at Morris Heights Health Center.

Reach more people

Advertise in print & online: bxadsvoice@gmail.com

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Have you scheduled your mammogram yet?

By Alyson Moadel-Robblee, Ph.D., Director, BOLD Cancer Wellness Program, and Community Outreach and Engagement, Montefiore Einstein Cancer Center Not surprisingly, general health checkups have dropped precipitously during the pandemic. While tele-health has helped to keep many of us connected to care while safe from exposure to COVID-19, telehealth visits are not a substitute for critical cancer screenings.

Just in the Bronx, we saw breast cancer screenings drop by 21% at our Montefiore locations. This translates to 8,600 fewer women receiving mammograms in 2020 when compared to 2019. The impact of delaying your mammogram could be as detrimental, even more so, than getting COVID-19

if you are the one in eight women who develop breast cancer in your lifetime.

If you’re on the fence about getting your mammogram, let’s review the FAQs on Breast Cancer and Screening: Who and how often?

Women should start getting mammograms at age 40 and go for this screening every 1-2 years until age 75.

If you have a history of breast cancer in your family or dense breasts, speak with your physician about screening recommendations.

Why? Mammograms can pick up cancers before they can be felt, or before any symptoms arise.

When breast cancer is found early, you are more likely to need less aggressive treatments and your chance of successful treatment and long-term survival is 90%. If cancer spreads beyond the breast, survival rates drop significantly. On average, 28% when cancer has spread

beyond the breast.

Now, like most of us, you probably have some reservations or things that get in your way to getting a mammogram like: Where to go, how to pay for it, lack of time, concerns about discomfort/modesty, COVID-19 infection, worries about the safety of the procedure, and maybe even negative experiences with health care in the past.

We appreciate and understand that it’s difficult to make time to prioritize preventive care especially during a pandemic, but here is some food for thought that may help you juggle the pros and cons of going for a mammogram.

1) YOU are important and deserving of the best. That includes the best of health and healthcare that is afforded by early intervention.

2) Much of what gives us meaning and joy in life, including our relationships, daily activities, and independence, depends upon our CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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Have you scheduled your mammogram yet?

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

health.

3) When you think about it – what feels more empowering, avoidance or being proactive? Ultimately, we all “pay” emotionally when we avoid things that make us uncomfortable but grow when we face things head on.

4) We often equate cancer with a death sentence. The fact is that finding cancer early can be a lifesaver. The risks and discomforts of mammograms are minor compared to their life saving benefits. The same goes with cancer treatments. This is based on research and facts.

5) Finally, you’re not alone in your ambivalence, procrastination, and/or concerns. Even

those of us working in healthcare can experience the same feelings.

As such, we’ve created a free community of support to help you take the steps needed to get your mammogram safely regardless of insurance status, financial constraints, having a primary care provider, transportation barriers, or knowing where to go.

A word about Health Equity If you are a woman of color, it is especially important to go for regular screening since African American women are at greater risk of being diagnosed at later stages of disease. In addition, there is a national trend showing African American and Hispanic women being diagnosed with

The Bronx Oncology Living Daily (BOLD) program is committed to providing support for men and women facing a range of cancers.

breast cancer at younger ages – so screening is more imperative than ever.

Here in the Bronx, our Montefiore breast team has observed this trend and towards its mission to help eliminate health disparities in our neigh-

borhoods, urges everyone to be proactive with your healthcare.

To learn more, contact the BOLD Screening Navigation Program: cancersupport@einsteinmed.org; (718) 4303613; www.einsteinmed. org/cancercenter/support

Last, but not least, don’t forget that every year, we have a free breast cancer screening event. This year, the event will take place on Saturday, October 9 from 9 am to 1 pm. To sign up, please call 718405-8076 today.

United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that women between the ages of 40-74 are at average risk for breast cancer and should receive a mammogram every two years. While women between the ages of 40-44 should consult with their physician on when to start and how often to get a mammogram. Morris Heights Health Center offers a wide range of women’s health services that include screening

and health counseling for breast cancer, cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, HIV, and sexually transmitted infections, routine GYN care, prenatal and postpartum care and more.

Amid this ongoing pandemic it’s important to continue to stay up to date with routine health screenings. A delay in health screenings can make a significant difference between detecting the disease early and treating it from detecting

it in the later stages.

To learn more about the services offered at MHHC’s Women’s Health Clinic and to discuss scheduling your next mammogram appointment today, scan the QR code below:

Morris Heights Health goes Pink CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

shock. The results from my biopsy, revealed that I had Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS)”.

LCIS is an area of abnormal cell growth that increases an individual’s risk of developing invasive breast cancer later in life. “I received a second biopsy that revealed that the LCIS did not spread. In November 2016, I had a lumpectomy. The margins were tested, and no traces of cancer were found. I was

elated. The physical scar healed, but the emotional journey was just beginning.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the U.S. Early detection is key in the treatment of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that women aged 45 and older should receive routine breast cancer screenings. The

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NYC schools to begin screening students for social-emotional skills next month CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

“It helped the teachers begin to see ways of proactively building in opportunities for students to exercise positive behavioral habits that build up these skill sets,” Paige said.

Starting next month, staff at schools across New York City will begin using this screening tool — known as the Devereux Student Strengths Assessment, or DESSA — to understand students’ social-emotional health after nearly two years of unprecedented disruption.

How it will work: Teachers or other staff members will answer questions in an online screener about students.

The questions will focus on a student’s social-emotional skills, such as decision making, self awareness, and personal responsibility. While officials have not pointed to a specific date, a department spokesperson said they’ll begin rolling out the tool to schools next month “so that adults have time to get to know students” before they fill out the screener, though it’s unclear if it will be the same screener Paige used or a shorter version. Officials are hoping staff spend the first few weeks of school “forming relationships” with students, such as through individual check-ins, as suggested in the system’s “Bridge To School” plan.

In July, the city awarded a three-year, $18 million contract to Aperture, an education technology company that created a platform that includes the screening tool itself as well as tools staff can use to determine what support students may need.

Officials previously said the cost would be fully covered by the billions of federal COVID relief dollars that went to city schools. Twenty-five other schools use this screener already, according to a description of the contract to the Panel for Educational Policy, the largely

mayoral appointed board that approves major school contracts and policies.

Some children might need individual or group counseling, mentoring, or small group social skill building, said an education department spokesperson. Others might need time in class to write in a journal. The tool could also help in creating behavior intervention plans for students.

Even though the results will be used to determine support for students, schools won’t be required to provide anything specific, the spokesperson said.

Officials said the goal is for all schools to use the screener this year, but schools that are already using such tools won’t be expected to use it, the spokesperson said. The education department has started contacting “select schools” as well as department higher-ups to explain how schools can use the screener. The department plans to discuss the screener with more school communities, including staff and families, “in the weeks to come,” which could be through meetings, emails and professional development sessions.

It appears that many staffers aren’t yet aware how the screener will be used, and many families are unaware of their schools’ plans for social skills screening or that parents will be able to opt their children out of it. While some advocates are hopeful about the tool, they’re concerned about how — or whether — the assessment and its findings will be communicated to families.

“We just haven’t heard of a comprehensive plan to inform families about this assessment, and I think it’s important for families to know and for parents and caregivers to be aware that there are students being assessed, but then also what the results are,” said Rohini Singh, a senior staff attorney with the School Justice Proj-

ect at advocacy organization Advocates For Children.

Singh emphasized that this tool does not screen for mental health needs and believes that sort of screening should be conducted by a licensed mental health professional.

Vanessa Velez, a social worker at a school in Manhattan, said she hasn’t heard any details about the screeners beyond what she has read in the news. She’s already getting staff referrals of students displaying signs of anxiety or in need of extra support, which usually come later in the school year.

She said she’s unsure if the screener will be helpful, especially beyond what schools may already be doing, and worries that it will turn into just another task for teachers.

“Not to say this wouldn’t be helpful, maybe for some schools it will be,” Velez said. “I think that’s a big issue — it’s this big unclear vague thing that’s supposed to happen.”

‘Permission’ to slow down The DESSA screener was first created in 2008.

City officials are touting the screening tool for being strengths-based — meaning it asks questions about a students’ positive behaviors and focuses on building those up, instead of seeking negative ones, such as whether a child frequently annoys their peers. That is also what makes Singh, the attorney from Advocates for Children, optimistic so that schools don’t solely focus on “risk factors.”

An early study of the DESSA screener showed it was “very effective” in identifying students with social, emotional and behavioral problems, by screening children who were already known to need support in those areas compared with their peers. A 2016 study showed that students who were identified as needing social-emotional support

by a shorter version of the screener were 4.5 times more likely to have a “serious” disciplinary problem by the end of the school year.

At Unison, it can be hard to see some of the results on paper.

The school’s daily attendance rate had barely budged before the pandemic shuttered schools, according to data Paige provided. And chronic absenteeism actually worsened initially before improving by nearly 6 percentage points before the pandemic.

School surveys show that the percentage of students who said they trust their teachers grew slightly from the 2016-2017 school year, when the school was considered an “at-risk” school, and the following school year, though it dropped slightly in 2018-2019.

But for Paige, the change in school culture is palpable. A department spokesperson said behavior-related incidents at the school have dropped by 58% between 2014-2015 and the school year before the pandemic set in, though he declined to provide year-by-year data.

Paige said the screener allowed teachers to find ways for students to practice positive social skills, such as improving personal responsibility. For example, her teachers now know to carve out time to help sixth graders practice managing their schedules and classwork during the first month and a half of their school year, since those students are new to middle school and expected to take on more academically. The school used advisory sessions to work on these skills and now has an entire social-emotional curriculum, where students are starting to assess their own skills four times a year.

She thinks this tool will be especially important this year as many students return to buildings for the first time

since March 2020. Many may have struggled in isolation for so long, while others may be dealing with the death of loved ones. Others may have thrived at home and are nervous about returning to school.

“This tool gives staff that time and that space and that permission to really slow down and think individually about each child in a way that I think all of our kids really need from us this year,” Paige said.

‘Drinking from a firehose’ Aperture, the company that created the screening tool platform, declined a request for an interview, instead referring Chalkbeat to city officials.

On its website, Aperture said it works with more than 3,000 schools, though it’s unclear if that includes the entire New York City school district. The state of Connecticut announced a deal with Aperture in March to purchase its social-emotional screening tool.

The company appears busy in the wake of the pandemic: In a May interview with a North Carolina publication, Aperture CEO Jessica Adamson said the company was “drinking from a firehose.”

Many schools that have long focused on social-emotional learning may have already created plans to address their students’ social-emotional needs after a vast disruption to in-person schooling.

Julie Zuckerman, who oversees Castle Bridge Elementary School in Washington Heights, said it’s been the school’s policy to check in individually with children and more so now, especially since there are children whom staff members haven’t seen for 18 months.

“The whole homecoming thing the chancellor is talking about? That’s how we start the year anyway,” Zuckerman said.

Health Matters

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New program studies asthma in schools

A new community-based approach to helping children manage their asthma symptoms will launch in up to 40 public, charter, and parochial schools across the Bronx, and enroll 416 students aged 4-12 years old.

The five-year study, ti-

tled “Evaluation of the Asthma Management Program to Promote Activity for Students in Schools” (Asthma-PASS), is supported by a $4.2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to Albert Einstein College of Medicine and the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore (CHAM). The research will be led by Marina Reznik, M.D., M.S., Vice Chair for clinical and community-based research, CHAM and Einstein, and professor of pediatrics at Einstein.

Montefiore-Einstein research shows the rate of asthma prevalence in the Bronx is as high as 25% in some neighborhoods, the highest rate of all New York City boroughs. The Bronx also has the highest overall rates of asthma hospitalizations and deaths, in New York.

“We developed Asthma-PASS in collaboration with Bronx elementary schools, parents of children with asthma, and

community members, and then conducted a pilot study in four schools, which showed an increase in symptom-free days and children’s physical activity—an important component of asthma management,” said Dr. Reznik.

“Our goal with the expanded study is to see if we can reduce asthma symptoms among high-risk urban school children.”

The new cluster-randomized controlled trial will assign participating schools to either the Asthma-PASS intervention or the Asthma Management comparison group.

Schools randomized to Asthma-PASS will receive an asthma workshop for school personnel and hold an asthma awareness week where students will participate in hands-on activities, such as writing poems, making posters, and learning facts about asthma to reduce stigma about the disease and bring asthma awareness to everyone at the school.

Asthma-PASS families

will also work with a Community Health Worker (CHW) to address care coordination needs or concerns about physical activity.

All schools, regardless of their assigned group, will continue to offer ongoing classroom and school-based opportunities for physical activity. After students in Asthma-PASS schools complete the intervention and final assessment, children in the Asthma Management comparison schools will be offered asthma workshops and asthma awareness week activities. Additionally, children and caregivers enrolled in both groups will receive asthma education and COVID-19 support from a CHW. At the end of the study, researchers will assess outcomes for children in the Asthma-PASS group compared to the children in the Asthma Management comparison group.

“During the pilot Asthma-PASS study, we were

blown away by the creative ways children learned and shared information about asthma during the awareness week,” said Dr. Reznik. “We hope that all the students participating in the study will find it an engaging and enjoyable way to learn how to better manage their condition and improve their long-term health.”

In prior research, Dr. Reznik and colleagues found that urban minority children with asthma face barriers to physical activity, including asthma-related stigma reported by children, parent/child fear of an asthma attack caused by physical activity, and lack of teacher confidence in assisting students with acute asthma. Asthma clinicians and researchers support physical activity for children with asthma as it is associated with decreased severity of asthma symptoms, as well as improved disease control and quality of life.

Another prior study led

by Dr. Reznik showed that CHWs delivering homebased asthma education can decrease symptom days and reduce disparities in children's health outcomes.

The new Asthma-PASS program combines both elements of the successful prior studies, aiming to enhance the support and outcomes for children with asthma and their families.

Dr. Reznik has dedicated her career to caring for patients with asthma in her clinic, but also to finding ways to improve the socioeconomic and environmental factors that influence children’s asthma management. To date, she has conducted 10 community-based asthma interventions, enrolling approximately 3,000 children and/ or caregivers and collaborating with several community-based organizations to create and assess practical, actionable ways to improve children’s asthma, and reduce exacerbations and hospitalizations.

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20• BRONX VOICE• October 6 - 12, 2021

How to make daily rituals easier for family with dementia or Alzheimer’s

By Chandra Wilson Anyone who has a relationship with someone suffering from Dementia or Alzheimer’s knows that even the simplest tasks in daily life can become true challenges—for both caregivers and the family members themselves. Something as simple as making and enjoying a morning cup of coffee or tea can turn into an exhausting and frustrating experience. Coping is difficult enough, sometimes, we don’t need the little joys of life to become a burden too.

As a registered nurse and Associate Clinical Director for Partners in Care, a licensed home care agency and part of the Visiting Nurse Service of New York, I know there are countless potential obstacles that can make even daily rit-

uals extremely difficult for caregivers. My colleagues and I have come up with some ideas for communicating that we hope will help caregivers maintain patience and a sense of calm when they are reaching their breaking point. Setting yourself up for success as much as possible will create a more positive and productive environment for both you and your suffering loved one alike. *Accentuate the Familiar: Be sure to continually remind your family member or client of the person, place and time.

Say “I’m…, I visit you here at home every day” or “Hi Grandpa, it’s me…

I’m off from school and am going to be spending this morning with you.”

This helps a person with dementia feel grounded in what they know and

allows them to feel safe with that knowledge for however long they can. *Observation is Key: As noted in the tip above, familiarity can help lessen the frustrating aspects of dementia, when the patient can grasp onto something being told to them or something they can come to expect. Notice what their favorite foods and drinks are, how they take their coffee. Do they like variety in day-to-day meals, or do they like consistency?

Also try to notice which times of day they seem to be more clear or confused, and adjust your caretaking accordingly. If you know they are most disoriented during the morning, know you will need to be more repetitive and patient. *Try New Conversation Tactics: Since conversations with demen-

tia patients can repeat and tend to loop around again and again, try to listen carefully and then reword the question or emphasize a different point to help keep the communications flowing.

Re-clarifying and altering the question slightly can go a long way. Also, though it is tempting when conversing with someone with dementia to fill every silence, sometimes you do have to give the person some time to think before they respond. *Involve the Patient: Instead of calling all of the shots with simple tasks like getting dressed and ready for the day, involving your loved one or client can help foster engagement and self-respect. You can make suggestions—“It’s hot outside today, so let’s wear something with

short sleeves”—but let them choose which short-sleeve shirt. Try this when going grocery shopping too: ask which flavor or which brand of a product they think you should buy. Allowing them to have input in small decisions may allow them to feel a little bit of the independence they have lost again. *Be Mindful of Your Reactions: Even if your loved one is suffering from a very severe form of dementia, they will still react to you based on your tone of voice and/or facial expression. Be mindful of not letting your frustration show. It is difficult, but take a deep breath, put a smile on, and keep your tone positive. It can make world of difference. *Know When to Take a Break: Sometimes there is nothing left to do but simply step away for a short while. This is one of the most important things you can do to take care of yourself as a caregiver. If things have become aggressive or simply too overwhelming, walk away for a few minutes (as long as it is safe). Give yourself some time to collect yourself and try to return with a different facial expression.

Jane Sadowsky-Emmerth is an RN and Associate Clinical Director at Partners in Care, part of The Visiting Nurse Service of New York.

VNSNY is the largest not-for-profit home- and community-based health care agency in the United States, providing quality private care services.

For more information please visit www.partnersincareny.org or call 1-888-735-8913.

BRONX VOICE• October 6 - 12, 2021• 21

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You should get the seasonal flu vaccine this year

By Dr. Denise Nuñez As we continue to work through the COVID-19 pandemic together, it can be all too easy to lose sight of other ongoing public health concerns, such as the seasonal flu. The 2021-2022 flu season is just beginning, and this year we’re at even greater risk than usual – so getting your flu vaccination just might be more important than it’s ever been.

Now, you may be asking yourself, “How is the seasonal flu vaccine more important than it was last year?” The 2020-2021 flu season happened during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, so wouldn’t we have been at greater risk then? While it’s true that the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to a unique flu season, it was actually much milder than any other in recent memory. Because of mask mandates, social distancing guidelines, and stay-at-home orders last season, flu cases were extremely low.

This season, however, COVID-19 safety precautions are in a constant state of flux and seem to be looser overall than they were last year. Because of this, the rate of flu transmission is expected to be much higher. With both COVID-19 and season-

al flu going around at the same time, the potential risk of serious illness is much greater, especially if you aren’t immunized against both viruses.

It’s very important to note that the COVID-19 vaccine does not protect you from the seasonal flu.

To immunize yourself against both viruses, you must receive both the COVID-19 vaccine and the 2021-2022 seasonal flu vaccine. It’s recommended that you get the vaccinations on separate days.

Even if you personally don’t think the seasonal flu will negatively impact your health in any serious way, you can still pass it along to someone more vulnerable than yourself. In severe cases, the flu can lead to pneumonia, heart issues, and death. That’s why it’s so important to get vaccinated – to

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protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community from potentially life-threatening illnesses.

Over the last few months, we’ve all seen what can happen when people refuse to get vaccinated against a

life-threatening virus.

So, don’t wait until it’s too late.

The CDC recommends eligible people six months and over get a flu shot. Call BronxDocs at (680) 646-6800 or visit us at bronxdocs. com to speak to one of

our health care providers about how you can schedule your 20212022 seasonal flu vaccination appointment today.

Dr. Denise Nuñez is a pediatrician and Director of Medicine at BronxDocs.

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Lehman Center returns

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Celebrate the excitement of merengue in concert CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

first two songs “Quisqueya” and “Condiciones” were recorded in 1978 with the Santo Domingo All Star Band led by Gerardo Vera. Sharing vocals with Fernandito Villalona, Bueno recorded the hit “Piel Canela“ in 1980.

Leaving the All Star Band in 1982, he became the lead singer of the merengue band La Orquesta Liberacion and recorded the critically acclaimed album Alex & Orquesta Liberacion which contained the hits “Querida”, “La Radio”, “Que Cara Mas Bonita”, and “Colegiada”.

In 1990, he released h i s first salsa album, the popular release Jardin Prohibido and followed up in 1992 with Ternuras, w h i c h broke sales records. After releasing three more successful salsa albums, Bueno switched to bachata, earning a Premi-

os Lo Nuestro nomination for Corazon Duro (2001), the second of his six bachata records. In 2013, Alex moved to New York City, releasing Unique Hits (2014), Tranquilo y Tropical and 1, both in 2015, and Diferente in 2017.

BONNY CEPEDA is an innovative singer, pianist, composer, and arranger from the Dominican Republic. After studying piano as a child, he attended the Santo Domingo National Conservatory of Music before making his professional debut in the Los Monjes orchestra and ventured into salsa with Rey

Reyes and En-

genio Pérez.

He formed his first merengue band, La Gran Orquestra, with Cheché Abreu, and Richie

Cepeda (his brother), El Zafiro and Andy Mesa as vocalists. Cepeda became one of the original members of Wilfrido Vargas’ very popular Los Hijos Del Ray orchestra, that also included Fernando Villalona, Raulin R o s e n -

do and Tito & Luis Kenton.

Among Bonny’s contributions as arranger for the group include the songs “La Mulatona”, “Como Va a Ser”, “Charanga pa’ Luis”, and “Así Es La Vida”.

Two years later, along with the Kenton brothers, he formed t h e

Bonny Cepeda

group Bonny Con Kenton, during which time he also perf o r m e d with Johnny Ventura before creat-

ing Bonny Cepeda y Su Orquesta, with his brother Richie on vocals. The orchestra quickly found success with hits like “Ay! Doctor”, “La Fotografia”, “Curato de Hotel”, “Me Tiene Chivo”, “La Gran Manzaza”, “Asesina”, “Que Caliente Estoy”, and “El Hijo de Madame Inés” among others. During his career, Bonny Cepeda has been given numerous awards, has recorded more than 30 albums, and has served as a major merengue producer for many other major artists.

Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, Inc. is supported, in part, with public funds through the SVOG Grant by the U.S. Small Business Administration, and from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the New York City Council.

The 2021-2022 Season is also made possible through the sponsorships by The New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Department, the New York State Council on the Arts, the New York State Legislature, Con Edison, Havana Café, and the Friends of Lehman Center.

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BRONX VOICE• October 6 - 12, 2021• 23

Culinary Road

By Morris Gut

Colorful fall flavors lighten up menus

Restaurants in New York City are mandated to require proof of vaccination from patrons wishing to dine indoors.

Eateries have posted signs at the entranceway to that effect. Restaurants face potential fines if not compliant. Please be calm and patient, and carry your vaccination card or vaccine photo I.D. with you…

A CORNUCOPIA OF FALL FLAVORS!

Autumn is in full swing!

The air is crisp, apples are falling to the ground at area orchards just waiting to be picked. Trees are putting on their annual Technicolor light show along highways and byways. Area markets are selling their late season harvest of cider, squash, apples, pumpkins, and hearty root vegetables. Restaurant kitchens are geared up with the best the season has to offer. There are many comforting flavors awaiting us right now. Here are some suggestions…

FALL DRIVES TO FARMS AND MARKETS

Want to pick your own?

Take a flavorful fall foliage drive with the whole family. Here are some great destinations, and be sure to check ahead for hours and availability: The Farmers Market at

New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx is open Wednesdays from 10 am to 3 pm and will run every Wednesday thru Oct. 27th.

For the latest on what’s fresh at the market call: Admission and parking are free. Enter the market at the Mosholu Gate. www. n y b g . o rg / e v e n t / f a r m ers-market/ Wilken’s Farm, 1313 Whitehall Road, Yorktown Heights. Marking their 105th year, visit the farmers market or pick your own apples, peaches, pumpkins, even Christmas Trees. Open daily except Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. thru mid-Dec. 914-2455111 www.wilkensfarm. com Stuart’s Fruit Farm, 62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs. This farm has been operating since 1828, strewn with old tractors and rural artifacts, you can pick your own fruit and produce or visit the farmers market for fresh cider donuts and pies. Open daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 914-245-2784 www. stuartsfarm.com Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard, 130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem.

Operated by first generation farmers since 2011, the farm store is open daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Onsite kitchen Mon.-Fri. Get tickets online for apple picking. CSA membership available. 914-485-1210 w w w. h a r v e s t m o o n a n dorchard.com

Hayfield’s, 1 Bloomer Road, North Salem.

Owner Renea Dayton’s multi-faceted country market bustles daily inside and out. From the in-house kitchen: coffee, breakfast, lunch, soups, salads, ice cream. Colorful flowers, too. 914-6698275 www.hayfieldsmarket.com OKTOBERFEST SPECIALTIES AT THE WICKED WOLF!

I visited The Wicked Wolf on E. Tremont Ave. in Throggs Neck, and I am glad I did. It is a traditional Irish tavern with an eclectic menu that covers a lot of ground. The staff was friendly and most eager to please. 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. Enjoyed every bite! A couple of seasonal brews helped was it all down.

Oktoberfest specials include potato pancakes, Jagerschnitzel with spatzle, Sauerbraten, Weiner Schnitzel, and German Pot Roast served with all the trimmings. The Wicked Wolf is located at 4029 E. Tremont Ave., Bronx.

The restaurant is open 7 days a week for lunch, dinner & Sunday brunch.

Indoor & outdoor seating. The Wicked Wolf, 4029 E. Tremont Ave., Bronx.

718-829-4400 www.wickedwolfbronx.

Hearty corned beef & swiss sandwich with fries at the Wicked Wolf.

com

HAUNTING BREWS & CUISINE AT JACK’S BAR, EASTCHESTER!

Seasonal decorations are up, and owner Shane Clifford draws a good crowd to Jack’s Bar & Restaurant on Main St. in Eastchester. It has been totally remodeled and offers an enhanced Irish/American tavern menu on steroids.

The best way to describe it. Generous specialties coming out of Chef Brendan Donohoe’s kitchen include Spicy Chicken Ranch Pizza; Pepperoni & Salami Calzone; Half Roasted Duck; decadent Short Rib Mac N’ Cheese; Jack’s Meatballs; Burrata Pizza out of their woodfired oven; Berkshire Pork Chop; and Grilled Lamb Sliders. The staff could not be more friendly. Open daily. Indoor & outdoor seating. Municipal parking; free evenings. Jack’s Bar, 219 Main St., Eastchester.

914-652-7650 www.jackseastchester.com

‘DAS BRONX’ AT BRONX BREWERY!

The crew at 10-yearold 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. Das Bronx Oktoberfest brews. 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: 718-4021000 www.thebronxbrewery.com (Morris Gut is a restaurant marketing consultant and former restaurant trade magazine editor. He has been tracking and writing about the food and dining scene in the Bronx and Westchester for 30 years.

He may be reached at: 914235-6591. E-mail: gutreactions@optonline.net)

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