Bronx Voice - September 22, 2021

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5th Year, No. 11

September 22 - 28, 2021

Page 4

BACK TO SCHOOL JLo, Goldman

Photo courtesy of Juan Rodriguez

6 issues to watch this year

Pages 8 - 10

Photo by Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

Sachs partner to help Latina biz A message left on an alleged stolen vehicle proclaims, "I like to steal.”

Page 15 Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris

Crips member charged in rape of 70-year-old

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2• BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021

An alleged Crips gang member has been charged in the gunpoint rape of a 70-yearold woman in her Bronx apartment building, District Attorney Darcel D. Clark announced.

“The defendant, a parolee, is charged with allegedly raping a defenseless, 70-year-old woman in her Bronx home,” District Attorney Clark said. “His actions were unspeakable and depraved. We will seek justice for the victim, who has suffered horrific trauma.”

Police say this man attacked an elderly woman in a Belmont apartment building. The suspect is seen holding a mask said to be worn during the attack.

Clark said the defendant, Reginald Bellot, 28, of East 181st Street, was arraigned on three counts of Predatory Sexual Assault, two counts of first-degree Rape, first-degree Criminal Sexual Act, two counts of first-degree Sexual Abuse, two counts of third-degree Rape, third-degree Criminal Sexual Act, first-degree Burglary, two counts of second-degree Burglary, and two counts of fourth-degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon before Bronx Supreme Court Justice Laurence Busching. Remand was

continued.

According to the investigation, at approximately 2:30 a.m. on July 27, 2021, the defendant followed the victim and threatened her with a gun to gain entrance into her Bronx apartment building. Inside a stairwell, Bellot allegedly raped the victim, then threatened her with a gun to get into her apartment, where he raped her again and forced her to perform sexual acts on him.

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

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4• BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021

5 injured when red light runner slams into cars

By David Greene A driver trying to avoid the police after running a red light, caused a massive accident that injured two pedestrians and three people in vehicles in Fordham.

The incident was reported at 4:16 p.m. on September 8, at the intersection of East Kingsbridge Road and East Fordham Road.

The out-of-control vehicle struck the three pedestrians on the sidewalk, before flipping over outside of Bryan Park, a triangle park on East Fordham Road.

According to police spokeswoman and detective Denise Moroney, "Police observed a 2006 Subaru fail to stop at a red light, pulled the motorist over and upon approach the vehicle fled the location.”

Moroney continued, "The 21-year-old male operating the 2006 Subaru (Vehicle # 1) hit a 2014 Fiat operating (Vehicle # 2) operated by a 20-yearold female and a 2016 Honda (Vehicle # 3) operated by a 34-year-old male with a 53 year-old female passenger.”

Both suspects were also charged with possession of at least one handgun that was recovered at the scene.

Taxi driver Juan Rodriguez of Yonkers was stopped in traffic at Fordham Road when the speeding vehicle slammed into his car, seconds before knocking several pedestrians to the ground and flipping over. Rodriguez said as he waited for his vehicle to be towed, "I saw the light was red, but I didn't understand that the police were following this car.”

Rodriguez, who believed his car was totaled in the crash, recalled seeing several pedestrians laying on the ground and police quickly arresting the young driver and passenger.

Rodriguez confirmed his female passenger was removed by EMS and a Citizen App video showed at least one child was also transported to an area hospital by EMS. The child was seen bleeding from the head. It's believed that none of the injured had suffered life-threatening injuries.

Citing "police sources," News 12 reported that seven people were injured, including a mother and two children whom they identified as pedestrians injured on the street.

During a Community Board # 7 Zoom meeting on public safety on Thursday, September 9, the Norwood News asked police officer Jose Cepeda about the incident, he replied, "As far as the accident yesterday, ahh, it wasn't a pursuit.”

Cepeda continued, "The individuals actually saw the police and took off.

Once they, I believe, got to Fordham (Road) around Tiebout (Avenue) they hit three vehicles and I believe three pedestrians were struck and the car flipped. So it was actually the public safety officers, they didn't pursue.

They saw the vehicle and

I guess the car noticed that the police saw them and they just tried to get ahead of it and took off, but they weren't following the vehicle, honestly.”

Police arrested Yaser Garcia, 21, and Laura Jimenez, 18, both residents of Newark, New Jersey.

Garcia was charged with multiple counts of possession of a weapon, leaving the scene of an accident with injury, reckless endangerment, obstructing governmental administration, criminal possession of a controlled substance, reckless driving and going through a red light.

Jimenez was also charged with multiple counts of criminal possession of a weapon as well as possession of a large capacity ammunition feed device, obstructing governmental administration and criminal possession of a controlled substance.

The crash comes on the heels of a hit-and-run crash that killed one woman and seriously injured another at East Fordham Road and Morris Avenue, at 8:42 p.m. on Saturday, August 28. Police say Murielle Gousse, 44, died a short time later at St. Barnabas Hospital.

Detectives at the 46th Precinct continue to work to identify that driver who failed to stop after that crash and reportedly fled Eastbound on East Fordham Road.

The crash that killed Gousse and another fatal crash in Brooklyn the following morning prompted Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Hank Gutman to issue a statement that read in part, "This weekend saw two high-speed fatal crashes on our streets -- both of

which occurred within school zones, near speed cameras."

Gutman called on officials to pass S.5602/A.6681, a bill that would allow cameras in school zones be allowed to operate 24-hours a day, as cameras are currently only allowed to operate between the hours of 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday thru Friday.

The DOT press release noted that one-third of all fatal crashes in New York City last year took place in school speed-zones during overnight and weekend hours, when cameras were not in use.

Police in the 46th Precinct also continue to search for another driver who failed to stop during a wild traffic stop on August 4, at East Fordham Road and Marion Avenue. That driver injured 11 people after he slammed into several vehicles stuck in gridlock traffic. The driver cleared his own path and escaped the half dozen officers, many with guns drawn. The vehicle was later abandoned and recovered by police. The individual was described as a dark skinned male with long black braids, wearing a white shirt and a black baseball cap.

During that same Community Board # 7's Public Safety meeting, officer Cepeda addressed the issue of vehicles fleeing routine traffic stops, telling residents, "The issue is going on all over the city, honestly. A lot of the time you try and stop these vehicles... they end up becoming pursuits."

Cepeda continued, "Just to make it safe for everyone, those guys end up getting away."

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BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021• 5

9/11: 20 years later

6• BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021

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Bronx remembers victims of September 11 attacks

By David Greene Family members, friends and complete strangers once again paused to remember the 2,977 people killed when two hijacked jetliners crashed into the World Trade Center in lower Manhattan 20 years ago, at gatherings held across the city on Saturday, September 11, 2021.

The crowd that gathered at the reflecting pool and around the 16-acre site where the Twin Towers once stood, drew a much small-

Photo by David Greene

After the crowd has gone a pair of women pay their respects at the September 11 memorial at Jacobi Hospital on Saturday, September 11, 2021.

er crowd then the tens of thousands who have come to pay their respect in years past, likely due to the global pandemic that has so far killed 4 and-a-half million people worldwide and has all but paralyzed New York City's tourism trade.

At least two protesters outside the heavily guarded site held signs protesting the appearance of President Joe Biden, whom they blame for the deaths of 13 U.S. service members during the pullout from Afghanistan and possibly leaving several hundred American's and thousands of Afghans behind as the Taliban once again took control of the country on CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Bronx remembers victims of September 11 attacks

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

August 31.

In the Bronx, residents once again gathered at the 9/11 Memorial created on the grounds of Jacobi Hospital along Pelham Parkway where family, friends and residents of the community turned out to honor the more than 140 Bronxites killed in the September 11th attacks. At the

Photos by David Greene

One of two protesters observed demonstrating against the appearance of President Joe Biden at the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in Lower Manhattan. (Left) Members of the Bengali community join local Cub Scouts, FDNY paramedics and police officers during a 9/11 observance held in Parkchester on Saturday, September 11, 2021.

same time a second gathering was held outside of the 49th Precinct on Eastchester Road, where officers paid homage to the 23 NYPD officers who died that day and the countless others who have since died from 9/11 related illnesses.

In the afternoon,

nearly 100 residents in Parkchester gathered along Unionport Road as Community Board # 9 held a remembrance for those who perished. Many from the Bengali community turned out for the event, joining a troop of the local Cub Scouts, community resi-

dents as well as members of EMS and the NYPD. Another gathering was held in the evening outside the headquarters of FDNY's Engine 72 on East Tremont Avenue in Throggs Neck, as they paid respect to the 343 FDNY firefighters and one volunteer fireman who perished that day.

8• BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021

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Children return to public schools 18-months after COVID-19 outbreak

By David Greene Many of New York City's 1.1 million school children who were sent home last March after the COVID-19 outbreak, returned to the classrooms as the city opened public schools for in-person learning on Monday, September 14.

Shortly after joining Department of Education Chancellor Alicia Ross Porter at P.S. 25 on East 149 Street in the Bronx, Mayor Bill de Blasio held a press briefing at City Hall.

De Blasio said, "This

is the day New York City's comeback is in full force." He continued, "This morning I saw it with my own eyes at P.S. 25 in the Bronx.”

When asked by a reporter about parents CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Photo by Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

Mayor Bill de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Porter welcome students back for the first day of school at P.S. 25 in the Bronx.

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Children return to public schools 18-months after COVID-19 outbreak CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

who are holding out before sending their children back to school, de Blasio responded, "For folks who are concerned, I understand the fear that we all feel for our kids. If the fear is about adults in the household, then we have an easy solution, get everyone vaccinated.”

De Blasio continued, "When our entire healthcare leadership here in the city, even our education leadership, when the head of the American As-

sociation of Pediatrics, everyone saying, 'get your kids back to school,' that's the best way to help your children.”

De Blasio added, "We have the most advanced safety measures in the entire country, we proved it all last year.”

When asked by WCBS-TV's Marcia Kramer if children get sick, would he consider a remote learning option, the mayor replied, "When there's any kind of exposure in a school, if someone's vaccinated,

even if they were in a room with someone who ends up having COVID, if your vaccinated and not symp-

Photo by David Greene

An unidentified father waits with his son during the first day of classes at P.S. / M.S. 498 in Morris Park on Monday, September 13, 2021.

Photo by Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

tomatic, whether adult or a student, you're staying in school.”

De Blasio added, "We do not expect anywhere near the kinds of closures or classroom disruptions that we saw last year, but if a child has to go home, alternative learning opportunities will be provided for them for those very few days that they're not in school.”

Meanwhile, as children were being discharged after the first day of school, one educator who declined to be identified, stated outside of P.S. 280 in Norwood, "It was great, man. I'm just happy to be back with the kids.”

The educator continued, "It's just awful the remote teaching is just not the same as

having kids here. We love the kids and the kids are happy to be back.”

After picking up her two kids from P.S. 280, Norwood resident Beatrice Cortez called the first day of school "unorganized," with miscommunication on where children enter and exit the school.

Cortez claimed, "All the parents, there was no social distancing, that was the first main thing.”

"The kids liked it," Cortez concluded, "because it's a new beginning again. They like the new teacher and new classroom and new friends back again to see their teachers, because some of them came back and some of them are new."

10• BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021

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It’s back to school for NYC 6 issues to watch this year

This article was originally published in ChalkBeat New York.

By Amy Zimmer On the last day of school in June, many educators and families exhaled, looking forward to a brighter year in September.

Vaccination rates tracked up, and COVID numbers dropped.

The scene dramatically shifted just weeks later. Vaccines are indeed “a game changer,” as Mayor Bill de Blasio has said, but breakthrough cases are happening as the highly transmitted

delta variant has gained a foothold in New York City. Meanwhile, more than half of the city’s schoolchildren are under 12 and remain ineligible for the vaccine.

As the city’s 1,600

public schools opened last Monday, de Blasio remains steadfast against a remote learning option, banking on vaccines as the first line of defense this school year. All public school teachers as well as pre-k educators and after-school staff with city-funded contracts must be vaccinated with at least one dose by Sept.

27. And while the mayor isn’t planning a vaccine mandate for all eligible students, officials are offering vaccines at 700 school sites when buildings reopen, and the

shots are required for high risk sports and after-school activities.

That’s on top of other layers of protection against the virus, including mandatory masking, improved ventilation, two air purifiers in every classroom, and three feet of social distancing “where possible,” as per federal guidance. (A lot of families, however, remain worried, especially when masks come off during lunch.)

But beyond the logistics of reopening, major questions remain around academic recovery,

Photo by José A. Alvarado Jr. / Chalkbeat

A child stands in front of his Brooklyn school last year. Beyond the logistics of reopening, questions remain around how will teaching and learning look different this year.

mental health services, and the basics of teaching and learning as all New York City schoolchildren head back to buildings for the first time since March 2020.

Here are some issues we plan to keep an eye on this school year:

Who will actually be back in the classroom?

Last school year, New York City’s public schools lost an estimated 43,000 students, or 4% of its enrollment, according to data the education department released in January. The attrition rate for that one year was more than the previous 14 years combined, Chalkbeat found.

Early signs indicate that enrollment may still be down at some schools: The number of kindergarten applications fell 12%, and middle school applications fell 6%, city figures revealed. Some schools have already told families that declining enrollment would mean fewer teachers this year, while other schools are waiting to see if children come back after they learned remotely when their families lived elsewhere CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

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Boo at the Zoo returns

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Boo at the Zoo is a fall tradition at the Bronx Zoo and the seasonal celebration it is returning for 2021. The Halloween-themed event is a family favorite for New Yorkers that marks the beginning of fall with activities for all ages.

Boo at the Zoo begins Saturday October 2 and will run on Saturdays and Sundays through October 31 (including Monday, October 11). Outdoor activities will include traditional favorites such as the popular professional pumpkin carving

demonstrations and displays; magic and mind reading shows; trick or treating on the Candy Trail; and the spooky extinct animal graveyard. Animal-themed costumed stilt walkers and Halloween animal puppets will headline the costume parade and Photo by Julie Larsen Maher © Bronx Zoo

the Wildlife Theater will Visit the website, dance with New York perform each day on As- BronxZoo.com/Boo- City Executive Order tor Court. at-the-Zoo for ticket No. 226, all guests age 12 reservations and a full and older must show proof schedule of activities of vaccination (at least and performances.

1 shot) in order to enter While celebrating the indoor exhibits. Masks season, the events and are required for all rides activities have been ad- and indoor areas for all justed to ensure all safe- guests over the age of 2 ty guidelines as directed regardless of vaccination by the City and State status.

Unvaccinated of New York. In accor- guests over the age of 2 are also required to wear a mask at all outdoor areas where social distancing cannot be maintained.

Face coverings remain optional for vaccinated guests in outdoor areas.

Visit the Know Before You Go page for more information on the zoo’s COVID protocols.

Tickets are date specific and must be obtained in advance at BronxZoo.com Photo by Julie Larsen Maher © Bronx Zoo (including members).

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BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021• 15

JLo, Goldman Sachs partner to help Latina entrepreneurs

Goldman Sachs’ Chairman and CEO David Solomon, Jennifer Lopez and Isabella Guzman, the 27th Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, hosted an intimate conversation with a dozen 10,000 Small Businesses Latina alumnae in the Bronx to kick off a new partnership.

The announcement coincides with the kick off to National Small Business Week and National Hispanic Heritage Month. “ G o l d m a n Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses is excited to partner with Jennifer,” said David M. Solomon, Chairman and CEO of Goldman Sachs. “Together, we’re going to amplify the voices of Latina entrepreneurs and help them take their businesses to the next level.”

The event was also attended by Asahi Pompey, Goldman Sachs’ Global Head of Corporate Engagement and President of the Goldman Sachs Foundation and Dina Powell McCormick, Goldman Sachs’ Global Head of Sustainability and Inclusive Growth.

The conversation focused on what Latina entrepreneurs need in order to grow their businesses and how they have navigated the pan-

demic. The new partnership is the first for JLo under her new mission-driven platform, Limitless Labs. The partnership will aim to recruit more Latina entrepreneurs to 10,000 Small Businesses nationally, with a focus on those based in The Bronx.

The program will provide greater access to the 10,000 Small Businesses curriculum and brand and marketing support.

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Latina alumnae who attended the conversation included: Noelle Santos, owner of The Lit.Bar in The Bronx.

Cristina Collazo (10KSB ’20), founder of Valija Gitana, a retail chain store in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Maria Escobar (10KSB ’18), owner of Nuevo Leon Mex-Mex, a restaurant in Dallas,

Texas.

Suzy Batlle (10KSB ’14), owner of Azucar Ice Cream in Miami, Florida.

Carmen Cedre (10KSB ’18), founder and president of Bloom Salon and Spa in Guaynabo, Rico.

Isabel Garcia Nevett (10KSB ’20), owner of Garcia Nevett Chocolatier de Miami in Miami, Florida.

Jessy Nahmias (10KSB ’21), owner of Jessy’s Pastries in Oceanside, New York.

Leticia Pollock (10KSB ’14), owner of Panther Coffee in Miami, Florida.

Maria Rios (10KSB ’11), president of Classico Building Maintenance in New York, New York.

Paola Shah (10KSB ’17), CEO of Tucketts, a sock company based in New York, New York.

Sabrina Valle (10KSB ’16), founder of The Jam Stand, a company dedicated to creating and selling interesting and unique jam flavors based in New York, New York.

Sandra Zambrano (10KSB ’20), owner of Sabor de Cuba, a restaurant in Queens, New York.

Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses and Jennifer Lopez Announce New Partnership to Elevate and Support Latina Entrepreneurs.

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16• BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021

Health Matters September is National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

By Dr. Kara Watts, Associate Professor, Department of Urology Montefiore Health System and Albert Einstein College of Medicine Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers for men, only after skin cancer. In fact, one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. For Black men, this cancer is especially deadly. In the Bronx, we have seen a 23% greater mortality risk of prostate cancer among Black men compared to their white counterparts.

But there’s good news.

Early screening can catch 95% of prostate cancers, and when caught early, the five-year survival rate for prostate cancer is 99%.

Prostate cancer has few or no symptoms in its early stages. Because of the prostate gland’s location, a growing tumor will have nothing push on, so often when the cancer is most curable, people don’t feel any pain. Warning signs can be vague and easily ignored, such as difficulty urinating, sexual dysfunction, blood in the urine or semen, pressure in the rectum, or stiffness in the lower back, pelvis, hips, or thighs, which is why screening is so important.

Risk Factors

The number one risk factor for prostate cancer is age. Risk of prostate cancer rises rapidly after age 50, so men should begin prostate screenings around then. Black men are 76% more likely than white men to develop prostate cancer and often develop

more aggressive forms of the disease, so we recommend regular screening for Black men to begin at age 45. We are currently researching the genetics of our patients with prostate cancer to identify why this disparity exists. One thing we know for sure is that family history is another significant risk factor.

If you have a relative who has had prostate cancer, you are twice as likely to develop it. Two or more relatives with the disease multiplies your risk by four. A family history of other cancers such as breast, ovarian, colon, or pancreatic cancer can also increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. We have ongoing studies focused on familial risks, as well as the correlation be-

tween weight and prostate cancer risk to determine how we can curb prostate cancer rates in our region and enhance current screening efforts in high risk areas of our community.

Screening

Two initial tests can find abnormalities in the prostate. The PSA test is a blood test that measures the level of prostate specific antigen; when there’s a problem with the prostate gland, more of this protein in produced. It doesn’t always indicate cancer; it may be a sign of inflammation, a urinary tract infection, or an enlarged prostate.

The second test is the digital rectal exam, which allows the doctor to feel the prostate and determine if it’s enlarged or irregularly shaped. The digital rectal exam is a little more uncomfortable but it isn’t painful. It is also quick – lasting less than a minute.

If one or both tests show there may be a concern, the next step may be an MRI or additional tests.

MRI images can help show prostate enlargement or abnormalities. Based on these images, a urologist may recommend a prostate biopsy. This minimally invasive procedure removes tissue from different areas of the prostate that are then examined in a pathology lab.

Earlier this year, we reviewed the records of 410 men—49% identified as non-Hispanic Black, 30.5% identified as Hispanic and 20.5% identified as non-Hispanic white—who underwent a fusion-guided biopsy at Montefiore,

Dr. Kara Watts, Associate Professor, Department of Urology Montefiore Health System and Albert Einstein College of Medicine which is when an MRI im- does not always require image is “fused” with the ul- mediate treatment. There are trasound image. We found non-aggressive forms of the that biopsies guided by this disease that can be managed with regular checkups. In technique, which our Defact, about 30% of men with partment of Urology offers prostate cancer have tumors at its main office location, that are so slow-growing detected more prostate can- that regular monitoring is cers among non-Hispanic enough.

Black men compared with For those men who are non-Hispanic white men recommended treatment, we and Hispanic men, who offer a multi-disciplinary aphad similar likelihoods of proach with a full range of prostate cancer detection. treatment options. Overall, Our findings suggest that, prevention is always the very especially for non-Hispan- best treatment option.

To mark National Prostate ic Black men, suspicious Cancer Awareness Month, prostate lesions detected we are offering a no-cost using MRI/ultrasound im- PSA test to men on Saturday, aging may have higher September 25, from 10 to 2 likelihood of finding pros- pm at 899 Elton Ave, Bronx, tate cancer that should be NY 10451. Appointments biopsied. In addition, this are limited, so we encourage type of biopsy may help people to register by calling to avoid detection of some 646-921-3007 as soon as low-grade prostate can- possible. We hope to see you cers that do not need to be at our screening event and encourage all men over age treated.

40 to learn more about their Treatment risk of prostate cancer and Even when problems are screening options today. diagnosed, prostate cancer

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BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021• 17

Simple steps can help older Adults avoid falls in the home

18• BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021

By Gladys Bayles-Panes, Occupational Therapist with the Visiting Nurse Service of New York September is National Falls Prevention Awareness Month and National Falls Prevention Week, which kicks off on the first day of Fall, is the perfect time to review a few safety tips that many of us take for granted on a daily basis.

The CDC reports that one out of every four older adults has a serious fall each year, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg: * One out of five falls causes serious injury like broken bones or head trauma. * Three million seniors are treated in emergency rooms after being injured in falls every year.

* Over 800,000 are hospitalized after a fall, with head and hip injuries being the most common. * More than 95% of broken hips are the result of falls, usually by falling sideways. * The most common cause of traumatic brain injuries are falls.

In 2015, victims of falls paid more than $50 billion in medical bills.

As an Occupational Therapist (OT) with the Visiting Nurse Service of New York, I’m part of an interdisciplinary team of physical therapists and other clinicians who care for New Yorkers in their homes. My work as an OT is specifically focused on helping patients resume the activities of daily living—such as

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dressing, bathing, cooking or accessing the community safely—after hospitalization or a major illness.

Assessing the home environment for safety is one of the first things we do when we meet a new patient. Here are a few guidelines that we hope will help you and your elderly loved ones avoid trips and falls and stay safe on your feet at home: Clutter – Put away all forms of clutter that can be tripped over. That includes stacks of old newspapers or mail and magazines that may be piled up in hallways and staircases.

Grab Bars – Have a handyman or family member install grab bars inside and outside of the tub/ shower and next to the toilet.

Railings – If the home has stairs, add railings to BOTH sides. If it is possible, live in a level home.

Wear Shoes – As comfortable as they may feel, it is easier to slip when only wearing socks on your feet.

Non-slip socks with grips on the soles are also available if shoes are uncomfortable.

Lighting – Have all rooms in the home as welllit as possible by adding more and/or brighter bulbs.

It is especially recommended to do this in bedrooms and bathrooms for better night guidance.

Take Your Time – Falls often occur when an older person attempts to move from a sitting to standing position too quickly. It is important to pause and pace

yourself when doing this.

Rugs – Tape down corners of rugs to the floor, which will make them much harder to trip over.

Telephone – Keeping phones near the bed will make them easier—and safer—to reach, especially if you’re awakened from sleep.

Exercise – Maintain your strength and balance through regular exercise.

You can ask for recommendation from an OT or physical therapist.

Gladys Bayles-Panes is an Occupational Therapist with the Visiting Nurse Service of New York. For more information about the range of home care services provided

by VNSNY expert clinicians, please visit www.VNSNY. org or call 1-800-675-0391.

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Morris Heights Health Center promotes employee health, wellness program

By India Dansby With the upsurge of remote work and the erosion of work-life balance, the wellbeing of employees has become a top priority for many employers.

Frontline health care workers are still plagued with unprecedented levels of stress and anxiety during this pandemic.

According to a 2021 survey conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Washington Post, 62% of frontline healthcare workers express feeling stress relating to the pandemic. In response to workforce changes precipitated

by COVID-19, Morris Heights Health Center (MHHC) has refocused their health and wellness efforts, launching a new employee-based wellness program called Wellness 365. The pro-

gram, which launched earlier this year, was designed to meet the employee where they are at, offering hybrid wellness coaching options.

MHHC employees can choose to engage in the program in the comfort of their own home or at the office. The goal of the program is to encourage work life balance and maintain a healthy lifestyle to sustain a healthy workforce.

“The employees’ well-being is paramount to our organization’s overall success,” ex-

pressed President and CEO Mari Millet. “Our employees are our most important asset and their health matters.

“When employees feel their best, they perform at their best.”

The Wellness 365 program offers employees options that are tailored to their needs. The program is offered two days a week and includes: * morning and evening sessions * in-person and virtual options * group sessions * a one-to-one session * Afro-fusion dance and fitness * nutrition education.

“Wellness is not just about losing weight or eating healthy, it’s a holistic approach,” says TsiTsi Merritt, MHHC’s

Health and Wellness Coach. “Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.”

TsiTsi, also known to

program participants as Coach Mai, brings a substantial amount of healthcare and personal experience to the program.

She has been a registered nurse for over 20 years working in adult and child intensive care. She has worked and cared for patients with end-stage renal disease in a chronic acute setting. She is also an accomplished athlete qualifying for Team USA 2018 in three races, placing second in her age group at the Duathlon National Champions in 2019 and a Regional Champion in 2018.

“I’ve participated in the Wellness 365 program since it began,”

says Karen James, Dir. of Patient Relations at MHHC. “The program is a great way for employees to relieve stress. It keeps me energized and gives me the motivation I need to improve my lifestyle, from changing my eating habits to working out more.” The Wellness 365 program is a catalyst for positive change in the workforce at Morris Heights Health Center. The program aims to build a supportive wellness culture and influence health behaviors among their employees.

In addition, the health center expanded their health and wellness initiatives to community members in the Bronx.

In the month of January, the Healthy Start program as part of MHHC’s Healthy Families began hosting virtual Fitness Friday classes once a month for their prenatal and post-natal patients.

One of MHHC’s goals is to pull the Bronx up from its #62 ranking in health outcomes and health factors for the ninth straight year, according to the 2019 County Health Ranking and Roadmap led by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation & the University of Wisconsin. MHHC is committed to making the Bronx healthier. Bronx residents can look to MHHC to provide more prevention and wellness programs in the upcoming months to help prevent diseases that plague the residents like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.

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It’s back to school for NYC 6 issues to watch this year CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

last year. Families who switched to parochial or private schools last year may opt to stay there, while charter school enrollment increased last year by about 10,000, or roughly 7.5%.

Many families are still calling for a remote option, with some planning to boycott the first day of school.

City officials did not respond to queries about the number of families requesting homebound instruction for children with medical conditions or how many requested to pull their children out of buildings to homeschool them.

Will promises of mental health support be more than lip service?

The city has promised

to hire an additional 500 social workers to ensure that every school has at least one social worker.

Experts, educators, and students are calling for mental health clinicians in schools and also, that social emotional learning be embedded in every classroom in some way.

With some students feeling anxious, especially those who have

spent more than a year learning remotely, it’s important for educators to have structured opportunities for students to engage with one another, Kevin Dahill-Fuchel, the executive director of Counseling in Schools, said at a recent Chalkbeat panel focused on mental health. He emphasized the importance for educators being available to listen to students and start those “critical relationships” with them and their families.

“The last time I was in the school building, I was in my second semester sophomore year, and I’m now going into my senior year of high school, which feels like a very big jump and that’s definitely something that makes me nervous and a little bit fearful of going back,” Shivali Korgaonkar, a Stuyvesant High School student, said at the event.

There are also questions about what school discipline will look like when children return to buildings.

Suspensions dropped dramatical-

ly as children were remote, though still disproportionately affected Black students. The disparities in discipline were among the reasons that many families wanted to keep their children remote again this year.

Will students with disabilities get their promised support?

The disruption in learning has been particularly difficult for many students with disabilities, especially those who struggled with remote physical or occupational therapy or limited access to a special education teacher. City officials announced a roughly $251-million plan claiming that every student with an individualized education program — or roughly 200,000 children with disabilities — would be eligible for extra special education programming after school and on Saturdays in addition to whatever services they normally receive.

The “vast majority” of the funding would flow to school budgets to provide services outside the traditional school day, officials said, with principals scheduling times that work well for their families. The services are expected to kick in by early November, officials said.

But several principals told Chalkbeat as of last week that they hadn’t heard anything about this plan nor had they received any funding yet.

Education officials said that schools would receive funding for these programs in the next few weeks, and that principals recently received separate funding under the Academic Recovery program to begin planning for these special education services.

“Over the next few weeks schools will be reviewing student progress, determining what services each child needs, planning their after-school or Saturday schedules and more,” education department spokesperson Sarah Casasnovas said in an email. “All schools will have the

resources they need to offer this critical support to every student with an individualized education program.”

Will the ‘situation room’ be able to stay on top of positive cases?

De Blasio has repeatedly said he expects fewer school building closures this year, and that may be true given the higher threshold for building closures, which will be done on a case-bycase basis. But quarantines and classroom closures aren’t expected to disappear, as evidenced by the hundreds of classroom closures in the first month that charter schools have been open this school year, Chalkbeat found.

While elementary schools are expected to close full classrooms, middle and high schools students could be in for a confusing ride this year in terms of “office hours” and keeping up with coursework.

With roughly 1 million children expected back on campus this year — CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

compared to about 365,000 in buildings by the end of last year — watchdogs are concerned that the “situation room” might be overwhelmed with responding to positive cases. The inter-agency rapid response team is charged with figuring out which classes might need to close and which students might need to stay home.

It could get complicated to determine who can stay or not (for instance, vaccinated children can remain in buildings if they have no symptoms). Adding to the hurdles: many middle and high schoolers will be moving from class to class with different kids in each course.

Yet, despite having 2.5 times as many children in school buildings this year, the situation room’s hours are being significantly reduced. On

weekdays, it’s now open from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., according to a recent newsletter the education department sent principals.

That closing time is four hours earlier than last year.

Brooklyn City Council member Mark Treyger, a former teacher who heads the education committee, wondered whether the situation room could handle the school system at full capacity, and expressed concern about all of the time that principals had to spend on COVID-related conversations with the situation room, taking them away from instruction.

“The more time they’re doing, whether it’s contact tracing, situation room coordination, communication with families about cases,” he said at a recent council hearing, “there’s going to be a cost here.”

How many assessments will kids get, and how will they help?

everyone to do their own thing,” Sarah Part, a policy analyst at the nonprofit In an effort to un- Advocates for Childerstand where chil- dren, previously told dren are academically, Chalkbeat.

Will a new schools are expected to chancellor take conduct assessments over mid-year? at least three times a Odds favor Demoyear, starting in kindergarten. The city is cratic nominee Eric devoting $36 million Adams taking over as for additional screen- the city’s chief execuing this year, includ- tive in January 2022, ing the cost of training and that could mean a teachers to deliver the new chancellor with a new set of priorities. assessments.

Many political inRoughly $3 million siders believe he will of that is earmarked tap David Banks to for K-2 literacy aslead the nation’s largsessments, which are est school system. designed to flag strug- The founding princigling readers. Students pal of the Eagle Acadin grades three to 12 emy for Young Men will be given assess- — the first school in ments in English as a network of all-boys well as math to help public schools in New give educators a base- York City — is a line understanding of trusted advisor of Adwhere students are and ams, and was standing track their progress with him on the night throughout the year. the Brooklyn borough But the question re- president won the mains: What will hap- Democratic primary.

Other names to conpen after students are sider include former assessed and identified of as having challenges? superintendent What specific training Brooklyn’s District will be provided to ed- 17 and newly appointucators to help them ed East Ramapo Superintendent Clarence respond?

“We don’t want to Ellis, Treyger (the teacher turned council see this just left up to member), and the curindividual schools for

rent chancellor Meisha Porter, suggested David Bloomfield, a professor of education, law, and public policy at Brooklyn College and the CUNY Graduate Center.

(Banks is one of Porter’s mentors. He was the founding principal of the Urban Assembly school in the Bronx where Porter taught and eventually served as principal.)

“Banks is the favorite, but Ellis, Treyger, and Porter are still worthy of mention, as would breaking tradition by putting all four before the public — or just a single nominee — for public questioning by the City Council or Panel for Education Policy prior to appointment,” said Bloomfield, a proponent of a public search process for chancellor.

A new administration brought Bloomfield a dose of optimism: “Adams’ lack of a detailed education plan and experience might be a plus by letting education policy be largely dictated by an educator at the DOE with NYC school experience instead of by the mayor’s office.”

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BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021• 23

Culinary Road

By Morris Gut

Aromas from all flavors fill the air

As of September 13th, 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…

SANCOCHO STEW AT MINI’S LATIN FUSION, NEW ROCHELLE!

A tasty way to celebrate Latin Heritage Month. Nicole Pirraglia-Piparo of City Island opened Minis Latin Fusion, a charming eatery serving colorful, flavorful Latin/Caribbean specialties such as fresh made traditional Sancocho Stew, ‘Picaderas’ such as Cuban Spring Rolls, and Shrimp Tostones. ‘Plato’s

Fuertes’ include Minis Burger, Pernil, Mofongo, Ropa Vieja, and Churrasco with rice & beans. New Haitian dishes via Chef Evens Auguste include: Conch, and Tassot de Cabrit, fried goat. Lunch served 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Happy Hours 3 to 7 p.m. featuring specially priced cocktails and appetizers.

Minis is open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch Tuesday thru Sunday.

Free parking. Minis Latin Fusion, 237 Main Street, New Rochelle. 914-3555609 www.minislatinfusion.com MEATBALLS & STUFFED ZUCCHINI FLOWERS AT ERNIE’S, BRONXVILLE!

Out of this tiny kitchen come laudatory renditions

of American/Global dishes bursting with flavor. Oenophiles, take note. The carefully selected wines served here, many from small-batch independent producers, can be heavenly. It is a wonderful place to unwind, take in some music on special nights, and indulge. The small bar is great for networking, too.

Recent food tastings here have included Luisanna’s amazing meatballs, stuffed zucchini blossoms, cheese & charcuterie platter, Duck Wontons, Duck Confit, and Mushroom & Pea Risotto.

There is live entertainment.

Open Monday thru Saturday for happy hour and dinner starting at 4:30 p.m. Ernie’s, 7 Pondfield Road, Bronxville. 914-652-7859 www. erniesbronxville.com CELEBRATE IN THE ‘OLD NEIGHBORHOOD’ AT MARIO’S,

ARTHUR AVENUE

Shop for Italian goodies along the strip, make a run thru the Arthur Ave. Indoor Market, then head over to Mario’s. Marking their 100th Anniversary on the street, five generations of the Migliucci family have worked the front and backof-the-house at Mario’s making sure patrons are well served at this venerable Little Italy institution. Regina Migliucci and her team are doing a fine job. This restaurant has a long history, and it is the stuff of Italian-American ‘foodie heaven’. Share a Hot Antipasto Platter for two, Spiedini, Osso Buco, or fresh-made Braciole. Pizza, too. Open Tuesday thru Sunday. Free parking lot and valet service. Mario’s, 2342 Arthur Ave., Bronx. 718-584-1188 www.mariosrestarthurave. com ITALIAN STIR-FRY AT TRATTORIA VIVOLO, HARRISON!

Chef-proprietor Dean Vivolo has been marking his 20th Anniversary serving robust Italian regional cuisine out of a gleaming vintage diner via the 50s, with counter and booths in the front and an airy greenhouse in the rear. During milder months, newly planted giant sunflowers and

flowery shrubs flank seasonal outdoor umbrella tables that accommodate guests for al fresco dining.

Vivolo has premiered a fall menu. You should try the hearty ‘Piatto al Salto’, a unique selection of Italian stir fry, gluten free.

Choices include: Arragosta e Capesante, lobster tail, bay scallops, mixed mushrooms, scallions, roasted peppers, pine nuts, garlic & oil; Salsiccia, spicy sausage, broccoli, sundried tomatoes, zucchini, fennel, radicchio, garlic, olive oil, sherry wine. Trattoria Vivolo, 301 Halstead Ave., Harrison, opposite the northbound Harrison Metro North. Open Tuesday-Sunday.

914-835-

6199. www.trattoriavivolo.com MORRIS PARK INN OPENING 2ND LOCATION!

Co-Proprietor Steve Poli of bustling Morris Park Inn in the Bronx has taken a space in the Rose Hill Shopping Center in Thornwood, N.Y. The space had previously operated as Skratch.

If the Bronx restaurant is any indicator, there will be a full tavern menu. They are currently awaiting proper licensing. More on

Soothing Sancocho Stew at Minis Latin Fusion.

this as it develops.

MPI Thornwood, 652 Columbus Ave., Thornwood. www. morrisparkinnthornwood.com For a look into Morris Park Inn in the Bronx: 718-239-4109 www.morrisparkinn.com Want to pick your own? You can take a flavorful fall foliage drive. Here are some great destinations, and be sure to check ahead for hours and availability: Wilken’s Farm, 1313 Whitehall Road, Yorktown Heights.

914-245-5111 www.wilkensfarm.com Stuart’s Fruit Farm, 62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs. 914-245-2784 www. stuartsfarm.com Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard, 130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem. 914-485-1210 www.harvestmoonandorchard. com Hayfield’s, 1 Bloomer Road, North Salem. 914-669-8275 www.hayfieldsmarket.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. Email: gutreactions@ optonline.net)

24• BRONX VOICE• September 22 - 28, 2021

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