Football Suffers First Loss of Season

Rams can’t overcome five turnovers, fall, 27-14, at Lafayette

BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 18- It was a game of lots of little missed opportunities that resulted in a big missed opportunity for the Fordham football Rams, the opportunity to go undefeated for just the third time in school history. The Rams turned the ball over five times and never seemed to be able to get on track, falling to Lafayette College, 27-14, in Fisher Stadium.

The loss for the Rams, who entered the game ranked fifth in the NCAA FCS, drops Fordham to 10-1 on the year while Lafayette improves to 4-6.

Playing without the services of injured quarterback Mike Nebrich, the Fordham offense went through stops and starts, seeming to pick up big yardage on some plays but having the play called back by costly penalties, as the Rams were held to a season-low 14 points.

The defense also came up with some big plays, intercepting the Lafayette quarterback four times, but could not come up with the big stops when needed, allowing the Leopards to convert on six of 14 third downs.

Things looked good for the Rams at the start as Fordham took the opening kickoff and drove to the Lafayette 26, thanks to a 20-yard rush from Carlton Koonce on the first play and a 30-yard completion from Peter Maetzold to Brian Wetzel two plays later. Facing a fourth-and-one at the Lafayette 26, Koonce took the ball around the right side and picked up the first down but the Rams were called for holding and had to settle for a 47-yard Marando field goal attempt which went wide left.

The Leopards used the momentum of the missed opportunity and moved to the Fordham 13 where Brett Biestek rushed Lafayette quarterback Drew Reed on third down, causing an incompletion, but  Ryan Gralish kicked a 30-yard field goal to give Lafayette a 3-0 lead with 9:24 left in the first.

The Rams again moved the ball to midfield on the ensuing possession but Wetzel fumbled after hauling in a pass and the ball was recovered by the Leopards.

It took one play for Lafayette to capitalize on the miscue as Reed connected with Mark Ross with a 49-yard scoring strike to boost the Lafayette lead to 10-0 with 8:03 on the clock. 

The Leopards threatened early in the second quarter with a first and goal at the two but Stephen Hodge intercepted Reed in the end zone to thwart the treat.

The offense seemed to feed off the momentum, moving 80 yards on eight plays with Maetzold finding Wetzel on a screen pass that Wetzel brought 34 yards to the end zone to get Fordham on the board with 10:38 left in the second.

The Rams picked off Reed again on the next possession when Jordan Chapman was able to grab the ball while lying on the ground on the Fordham 21.

Koonce appeared to pick up 21 yards on the first play from scrimmage but the Rams were called for holding and, two plays later, DeOliver Davis picked off a tipped pass for Lafayette on the Fordham 33.

Lafayette turned the interception into points as Ross Scheuerman took it in from the two five plays later to put the Leopards up 17-7 with 5:34 left in the half.

Fordham used a 42-yard completion from Maetzold to Wetzel on the second play of the ensuing drive to move into Lafayette territory but two plays later, Maetzold was picked off by Lafayette’s Matt Smalley on the Lafayette 28.

The Leopards moved to the Fordham 24 on the first series of the second half but Jake Rodriques stepped in front of a Reed pass on the Fordham 15 and he returned it to the Fordham 28. But the Rams again couldn’t take advantage of the turnover, going three-and-out on offense.

The game remained 17-7 until Lafayette took over on its own 23 following a Fordham punt with 4:39 left in the third. The Leopards kept it on the ground for most of the drive, gaining 68 of the 77 yards on the ground, capped by a two-yard scoring run from Scheuerman as Lafayette increased its lead to 24-7 with 2:06 left in the period.

Early in the fourth, the Leopards intercepted Maetzold on the Fordham 44 and the Leopards moved to the eleven where Gralish connected on a 29-yard field goal to give Lafayette a 27-7 lead with 8:19 remaining.

Later in the quarter Ian Williams outjumped Ross and came down with an interaction for Fordham on the Rams’ 20. Maetzold moved the offense down to the Lafayette 13 where he connected with Wetzel for their second scoring strike of the game as the Rams pulled to within 13, 27-14, with 2:07 on the clock.

The Rams attempted an onside kick following the score but were called for illegally touching the ball and Lafayette was able to run out the clock.

Maetzold completed 22 of 39 passes for 305 yards and two scores, his second straight 300-yard passing game, with Wetzel catching eight of the passes for 149 yards and Tebucky Jones making five receptions for 54 yards. Koonce gained 92 yards on 17 carries.

Defensively, Hodge led the Rams with nine total tackles, eight solo, and he intercepted a pass while Levon Williams, Ian Williams and Jake Dixon each finished with seven stops.

The Rams close out the regular season next Saturday, November 23, with a trip to Hamilton, N.Y., to face the Colgate University Raiders in Andy Kerr Stadium at 1:00 p.m.

Tags: Fordham, Rams, Football, First Loss

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Assault Rifle Recovered Near Cluster of Schools

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Assault Rifle Recovered Near Cluster of Schools: (Photo Courtesy of NYPD) By Dan Gesslein BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 15- Police recovered an assault rifle and scores of ammun...

Assault Rifle Recovered Near Cluster of Schools

(Photo Courtesy of NYPD)

By Dan Gesslein

BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 15- Police recovered an assault rifle and scores of ammunition from a Morrisania home around the corner from five schools.

At around 5:40 a.m., cops armed with a search warrant went through the house at 1160 Forest Avenue. Inside a closet in the home under a blue T-Shirt, officers recovered an AK-47 assault rifle with a 30-round magazine. 

A further search of the home revealed the following: fifty, .38 caliber rounds; three 9mm rounds; nine 12-gauge shotgun shells; a pistol magazine and a 30-round capacity magazine. Police charged the following with criminal possession of a weapon: Steven Walker, Victoria Velez and Emmanuel Rosado.

Although there was no report of the suspects intention on using the weapon, the recovery of a military assault rifle so near to schools has some residents on edge. The home is within a two-block radius of the following schools in either direction: PS 212, Bronx Latin School, Dr Richard Izquierdo Health and Science Charter School, on Home Avenue; New Covenant Christian Middle and High School on Boston Road and Morris Academy on Boston Road.

Tags: Assault Rifle, Schools, Bronx, New York, NYPD, AK-47

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Red Cross Leading Relief Effort in Philippines

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Red Cross Leading Relief Effort in Philippines: Using Facebook to Help Those Hit by Tragedy (Photos courtesy of Red Cross)   WASHINGTON, NOVEMBER 14- The American Red Cross announced an...

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Red Cross Leading Relief Effort in Philippines

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Red Cross Leading Relief Effort in Philippines: Using Facebook to Help Those Hit by Tragedy (Photos courtesy of Red Cross)   WASHINGTON, NOVEMBER 14- The American Red Cross announced an...

Red Cross Leading Relief Effort in Philippines

Using Facebook to Help Those Hit by Tragedy

(Photos courtesy of Red Cross) 

WASHINGTON, NOVEMBER 14- The American Red Cross announced an initial contribution of $6 million in support of the global Red Cross response to Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. These funds will be used to distribute relief items, repair and rebuild shelters, provide healthcare and ensure access to clean water and sanitation systems.

“We are grateful for the American public’s generosity and compassion following what has been called one of the strongest storms in world history,” said David Meltzer, chief international officer for the American Red Cross. “The American Red Cross is in a unique position to help provide support by airlifting relief supplies from its warehouses around the world, providing trained disaster responders specializing in damage assessment and telecommunications, and by channeling its financial support to the Philippine Red Cross and its more than 500,000 staff and volunteers and our other global partners in the Red Cross network – all of which go to providing relief from this devastating storm.”

In addition to financial assistance, the American Red Cross is lending people, expertise and equipment to this effort with four specialists already on the ground in the Philippines. These include two people who specialize in telecommunication and who are traveling with satellite equipment, and two others who specialize in disaster assessment.

The Philippine Red Cross has extensive experience in search and rescue and large-scale relief and recovery programs. The Philippine Red Cross is the largest humanitarian organization in the country, with 1,000 staff members and an estimated 500,000 active volunteers engaged in this disaster response. Their volunteer relief teams continue to provide assistance in the hardest hit communities, including assisting in search and rescue efforts.

The Philippine Red Cross has begun distributions of emergency supplies and has provided meals to people affected by the storm. On Sunday, 6,000 packs of relief supplies were sent to Leyete and other affected communities. However, supply delivery in the worst affected city of Tacloban has been significantly constrained by destroyed infrastructure, blocked roads, and downed communication lines.

Specialized emergency response teams from Red Cross societies across the globe are moving into the Philippines to assist the Philippine Red Cross. These include teams with expertise in logistics, disaster assessment, shelter, health, water and sanitation.

“A global Red Cross relief effort is well underway and we are working closely with our international partners to help get aid where it is needed,” said Meltzer.

Despite the tragic aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan, thousands of survivors are grateful for their lives. The Philippine Red Cross worked closely with local disaster authorities to support preemptive evacuations, helping move more than 125,000 families to safer shelter prior to the storm making landfall. The Philippine Red Cross also disseminated early warning messages and safety tips in areas along the path of the typhoon.

Here in the United States, the American Red Cross is helping to reconnect families separated by the typhoon and has activated its family tracing services. If people are looking for a missing family member in the Philippines, please remember that many phone lines are down. If people are unable to reach loved ones, contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross to initiate a family tracing case.

The American Red Cross expects to make additional contributions to support the humanitarian response in the coming weeks. Donations received from American Red Cross and other Red Cross partners will aid the Philippines relief and recovery efforts through the Philippine Red Cross and possibly other organizations as experts on the ground determine the best way forward.

HOW TO HELP Those who want to help can go to www.redcross.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS to donate to typhoon relief. People can also mail in a donation to their local Red Cross chapter. Gifts to the American Red Cross will support our disaster relief efforts to help those affected by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. On those rare occasions when donations exceed American Red Cross expenses for a specific crisis, contributions are used to prepare for and serve victims of other crises.

In a new partnership, Facebook is making it possible for users to donate directly to the American Red Cross either through a notification in News Feed, or directly on the Red Cross Facebook page. This is the first time that the American Red Cross has engaged in such a large-scale fundraising program with a social platform. For the Red Cross that means that with the click of a button on Facebook, we can connect people who want to help with those who are so desperately in need in the Philippines. This Facebook effort for the Philippines in the United States will continue through November 15.

Tags: Haiyan, Typhoon

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Red Cross Leading Relief Effort in Philippines

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Red Cross Leading Relief Effort in Philippines: Using Facebook to Help Those Hit by Tragedy WASHINGTON, NOVEMBER 14- The American Red Cross announced an initial contribution of $6 m...

Red Cross Leading Relief Effort in Philippines

Using Facebook to Help Those Hit by Tragedy

WASHINGTON, NOVEMBER 14- The American Red Cross announced an initial contribution of $6 million in support of the global Red Cross response to Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. These funds will be used to distribute relief items, repair and rebuild shelters, provide healthcare and ensure access to clean water and sanitation systems.

“We are grateful for the American public’s generosity and compassion following what has been called one of the strongest storms in world history,” said David Meltzer, chief international officer for the American Red Cross. “The American Red Cross is in a unique position to help provide support by airlifting relief supplies from its warehouses around the world, providing trained disaster responders specializing in damage assessment and telecommunications, and by channeling its financial support to the Philippine Red Cross and its more than 500,000 staff and volunteers and our other global partners in the Red Cross network – all of which go to providing relief from this devastating storm.”

In addition to financial assistance, the American Red Cross is lending people, expertise and equipment to this effort with four specialists already on the ground in the Philippines. These include two people who specialize in telecommunication and who are traveling with satellite equipment, and two others who specialize in disaster assessment.

The Philippine Red Cross has extensive experience in search and rescue and large-scale relief and recovery programs. The Philippine Red Cross is the largest humanitarian organization in the country, with 1,000 staff members and an estimated 500,000 active volunteers engaged in this disaster response. Their volunteer relief teams continue to provide assistance in the hardest hit communities, including assisting in search and rescue efforts.

The Philippine Red Cross has begun distributions of emergency supplies and has provided meals to people affected by the storm. On Sunday, 6,000 packs of relief supplies were sent to Leyete and other affected communities. However, supply delivery in the worst affected city of Tacloban has been significantly constrained by destroyed infrastructure, blocked roads, and downed communication lines.

Specialized emergency response teams from Red Cross societies across the globe are moving into the Philippines to assist the Philippine Red Cross. These include teams with expertise in logistics, disaster assessment, shelter, health, water and sanitation.

“A global Red Cross relief effort is well underway and we are working closely with our international partners to help get aid where it is needed,” said Meltzer.

Despite the tragic aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan, thousands of survivors are grateful for their lives. The Philippine Red Cross worked closely with local disaster authorities to support preemptive evacuations, helping move more than 125,000 families to safer shelter prior to the storm making landfall. The Philippine Red Cross also disseminated early warning messages and safety tips in areas along the path of the typhoon.

Here in the United States, the American Red Cross is helping to reconnect families separated by the typhoon and has activated its family tracing services. If people are looking for a missing family member in the Philippines, please remember that many phone lines are down. If people are unable to reach loved ones, contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross to initiate a family tracing case.

The American Red Cross expects to make additional contributions to support the humanitarian response in the coming weeks. Donations received from American Red Cross and other Red Cross partners will aid the Philippines relief and recovery efforts through the Philippine Red Cross and possibly other organizations as experts on the ground determine the best way forward.

HOW TO HELP Those who want to help can go to www.redcross.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS to donate to typhoon relief. People can also mail in a donation to their local Red Cross chapter. Gifts to the American Red Cross will support our disaster relief efforts to help those affected by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. On those rare occasions when donations exceed American Red Cross expenses for a specific crisis, contributions are used to prepare for and serve victims of other crises.

In a new partnership, Facebook is making it possible for users to donate directly to the American Red Cross either through a notification in News Feed, or directly on the Red Cross Facebook page. This is the first time that the American Red Cross has engaged in such a large-scale fundraising program with a social platform. For the Red Cross that means that with the click of a button on Facebook, we can connect people who want to help with those who are so desperately in need in the Philippines. This Facebook effort for the Philippines in the United States will continue through November 15.

Tags: Haiyan, Typhoon

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): SHAMELESS!

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): SHAMELESS!: Con Men Ca$h in on Typhoon Tragedy Prey Off People Trying to Help the Philippines WASHINGTON, NOVEMBER 14- The Department of Justic...

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): SHAMELESS!

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): SHAMELESS!: Con Men Ca$h in on Typhoon Tragedy Prey Off People Trying to Help the Philippines WASHINGTON, NOVEMBER 14- The Department of Justic...

SHAMELESS!

Con Men Ca$h in on Typhoon Tragedy

Prey Off People Trying to Help the Philippines

WASHINGTON, NOVEMBER 14- The Department of Justice, the FBI, and the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) remind the public that there is a potential for disaster fraud in the aftermath of a natural disaster. 

Suspected fraudulent activity pertaining to relief efforts associated with Typhoon Haiyan should be reported to the toll-free NCDF hotline at 866-720-5721. The hotline is staffed by a live operator 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for the purpose of reporting suspected scams being perpetrated by criminals in the aftermath of disasters.

NCDF was originally established in 2005 by the Department of Justice to investigate, prosecute, and deter fraud associated with federal disaster relief programs following Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma. Its mission has expanded to include suspected fraud related to any natural or man-made disaster. More than 20 federal agencies—including the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney’s Offices, Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Secret Service—participate in the NCDF, allowing the center to act as a centralized clearinghouse of information related to disaster relief fraud.

In the wake of natural disasters, many individuals feel moved to contribute to victim assistance programs and organizations across the country. The Department of Justice and the FBI remind the public to apply a critical eye and conduct due diligence before giving to anyone soliciting donations on behalf of hurricane victims. Solicitations can originate as e-mails, websites, door-to-door collections, mailings, telephone calls and similar methods.

Before making a donation of any kind, consumers should adhere to certain guidelines, including the following:

▪ Do not respond to any unsolicited (spam) incoming e-mails, including by clicking links contained within those messages, because they may contain computer viruses.

▪ Be cautious of individuals representing themselves as victims or officials asking for donations via e-mail or social networking sites.

▪ Beware of organizations with copycat names similar to but not exactly the same as those of reputable charities.

▪ Rather than following a purported link to a website, verify the existence and legitimacy of non-profit organizations by using Internet-based resources.

▪ Be cautious of e-mails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files, because those files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.

▪ To ensure that contributions are received and used for intended purposes, make donations directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.

▪ Do not be pressured into making contributions; reputable charities do not use coercive tactics.

▪ Do not give your personal or financial information to anyone who solicits contributions. Providing such information may compromise your identity and make you vulnerable to identity theft.

▪ Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by debit or credit card or write a check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals.

▪ Legitimate charities do not normally solicit donations via money transfer services.

▪ Most legitimate charities maintain websites ending in .org rather than .com.

If you believe that you have been a victim of fraud by a person or organization soliciting relief funds on behalf of disaster victims, contact the NCDF by phone at (866) 720-5721, fax at (225) 334-4707, or e-mail at disaster@leo.gov.

You can also report suspicious e-mail solicitations or fraudulent websites to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

Tags: Haiyan, Typhoon

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Monroe gets dual District titles

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Monroe gets dual District titles: Women's volleyball and soccer defeat CCRI;  Nationals are next By Gary Axelbank BRONX, NEW YORK, November 13- With the score 2-1 and...

Monroe gets dual District titles

Women's volleyball and soccer defeat CCRI; 

Nationals are next

By Gary Axelbank

BRONX, NEW YORK, November 13- With the score 2-1 and Monroe leading CCRI with just 10 minutes left in a competitive and tense women's soccer District final, the doors of the CCRI athletic center burst open and out came a shouting, smiling, and cheering Monroe Mustangs women's volleyball team hoisting their just-won District Championship trophy aloft. They proceeded to fill the sideline in support of their compatriots on the field.

Ultimately the Mustangs' lead held and when the final gun sounded, on the field were two very happy, nationally-ranked Monroe teams of female student athletes in common celebration of realized goals: District championships and upcoming trips to national tournaments. That they were reached just minutes apart against the same school in the same location – against CCRI on their campus in Lincoln, RI - only made the celebration that much more harmonious.

"We are very proud of our athletic program," said Athletic Director Bert Shillingford. "This is the kind of day you dream about: two District championships won just minutes apart and the student athletes celebrating together. We have incredible coaches and teams that seem to keep getting better and better.  Right now, I have a lot of work to do because two Monroe teams are traveling to national tournaments!"

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Jaspers Edge Columbia in Final Second

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Jaspers Edge Columbia in Final Second: BRONX, NEW YORK, November 13- The first two games of the season already have the feel of March Madness for the Manhattan Jaspers. On Satu...

Jaspers Edge Columbia in Final Second

BRONX, NEW YORK, November 13- The first two games of the season already have the feel of March Madness for the Manhattan Jaspers.

On Saturday, Manhattan defeated La Salle in double overtime and on Tuesday, the Jaspers pulled out a 71-70 victory at Columbia, scoring four points in the final four seconds for the win.

Trailing 70-67 with the clock winding down, Michael Alvarado pump-faked behind the three-point line to draw a foul and go to the free throw line for three shots with 4.0 seconds remaining in the game. Alvarado missed the first and made the second, prompting a Manhattan timeout.

After Alvarado intentionally missed the third free throw, the carom bounced to Emmy Andujar on the left side, who just missed an off-balance attempt to tie the game. But on the weak side was George Beamon, who banked in the follow-up attempt and drew a foul as the buzzer sounded.

The officials went to the reply monitor to confirm the made basket, sending Beamon to the line to complete the three-point play with 0.5 seconds showing on the clock and the score tied at 70-70. Beamon had made 12 of his 13 free throws already in the game and calmly sank his 13th of the game to give Manhattan a one-point advantage.

With half a second still remaining, Columbia's full-court inbounds pass was deflected by Emmy Andujar in the Columbia end. The Lions still had a chance with 0.3 seconds on the clock and ran an out of bounds play for freshman Luke Petrasek cutting toward the hoop. Petrasek got a hand on the inbounds pass from Isaac Cohen but his shot attempt glanced off the rim, sending the Jaspers' bench into a fit of jubilation for the second straight road contest.

Beamon poured in 28 points on 6-of-9 shooting from the field, including all three three-pointers he attempted. Shane Richards matched his career-high with 19 points, making six of eight triples in the game.

Grant Mullins had 23 points to lead Columbia, including 21 in the second half.

Now 2-0 for the first time in four seasons, the Jaspers will take on George Washington in their home opener at Draddy Gymnasium on Saturday, November 16 at 7 p.m.

Tickets for the game are available online or by calling 718-862-7795.

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): WHAT THE FRACK?

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): WHAT THE FRACK?: What’s Going on at Filter Plant Site? By David Greene BRONX, NEW YORK, November 13- Con Edison and officials from the New York City Dep...

WHAT THE FRACK?

What’s Going on at Filter Plant Site?

By David Greene

BRONX, NEW YORK, November 13- Con Edison and officials from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) have yet to explain what workers were doing when a cloud of what appeared to be liquid nitrogen was released at a work site on Sedgwick Avenue, on November 1. 

According to the website belonging to the Texas company where the nitrogen tank was processed, the product has multiple uses, such as freezing pipes while working on power lines, but it is also used in fracking, the unconventional method of drilling for natural gas. 

The site is outside of the future home of the Croton Water Filtration Plant, where at least one area resident has charged that the DEP has been using the illegal practice at the site.   

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Veterans Day Parade

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Veterans Day Parade: Photos by Gary Quintal Bronxites came out for to honor those who served during the annual Bronx Veterans Day Parade.  STATEMENT FROM S...

Veterans Day Parade

Photos by Gary Quintal

Bronxites came out for to honor those who served during the annual Bronx Veterans Day Parade. 

STATEMENT FROM SENATE MAJORITY COALITION LEADER JEFFREY D. KLEIN ON VETERANS DAY

“Today, I join all New Yorkers in honoring the service and sacrifice of our nation's veterans,” said State Senator Jeff Klein. “For generations, servicemen and women have fought to protect our freedom and our way of life. I encourage all New Yorkers to take a moment today to honor a veteran, contribute to a service member charity, or to learn more about the needs of our returning service members and their families. On behalf of my legislative colleagues and all New Yorkers, I once again thank veterans for their patriotic service in defense of our great country.”

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Fordham Finishes Homestand Undefeated

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Fordham Finishes Homestand Undefeated: Photos by Gary Quintal By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 11- Before the final game of the regular season played at...

Fordham Finishes Homestand Undefeated

Photos by Gary Quintal

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 11- Before the final game of the regular season played at Jack Coffey Field in the Bronx, the college tradition of honoring the home team’s seniors was held. Two of the 17 seniors, Carlton Koonce and Ian Williams, played major roles in the nail biting victory of the 6/7 nationally ranked Fordham Rams (10-0) over the Bucknell Bison (4-5). The win kept Fordham’s undefeated season record intact.

For both team’s turnovers were crucial to the outcome. Four Fordham fumbles were forced and recovered and one pass intercepted by Bucknell defenders. The leading rusher of the Rams, Carlton Koonce, who led Fordham with 84 yards on the ground, put the turnovers in perspective, “It’s unrealistic to think every play is going to be perfect.”

After the game concluded, Fordham coach Joe Moorhead gave credit to his usually less heralded players, “The defense and special teams went lights out.” The coach had good reason for his words of praise.

Four Bucknell drives were halted by the effective play of the Fordham defense, three by pass interceptions and one by a recovered fumble. Two of the passes were picked off by Jordan Chapman and one by Ian Williams. Each of the two cornerbacks also had six tackles and combined on final play of the game, which saved the Fordham victory.

Fordham was ahead, 23-21, with 48 seconds remaining on the clock as Bucknell began its final drive which started after a fumble by Rams quarterback Peter Maetzold was recovered on the Fordham 33. The Bison moved the ball to the Fordham 20. With two seconds left in the game, Bucknell’s David Maurer entered the game to attempt to kick a 37-yard field goal, which if successful would have given Bucknell a 24-23 upset win. Chapman and Williams rose up to block the field goal attempt.

In a post-game press conference, Moorhead explained his team’s effort on that play and throughout the game, “We play every play as if it’s the last play of the game. We just absolutely dug in our heels.”

On the other hand, Fordham’s special team’s place kicker Michael Marando, this season’s leading scorer on the team added 11 points to raise his season total to 93, first place in Patriot League scoring. Although he did not see action last year, the junior has been instrumental in Fordham’s undefeated season in 2013. He was successful in all three field goal and both extra point attempts on Saturday. Marando’s two field goals were the only points scored in the final quarter.

A huge part of the day’s story was that of Fordham’s quarterbacks, Michael Nebrich and Peter Maetzold. Nebrich, a five time Patriot League Offensive Player of the Week this year, left the contest after he suffered a knee injury late in the first quarter.

He was replaced by Maetzold, who only threw two passes this year. Although, he, like Nebrich, only saw action in three games in 2012, he played in seven games as a freshman in 2011. The junior explained his feelings, “I know what it’s like to play in the Patriot League against big teams. After a couple of plays under your belt, it’s just playing football again.” Maetzold did what was hoped by completing 21 of 35 passes for 318 yards.

Moorhead, an outstanding former Fordham quarterback assessed both men very positively. Of Nebrich, he commented, “If you evaluate his body of work, he’s on the Walter Payton Watch List [best player in the FCS] for a reason.” He remarked of Maetzold, “We have the utmost confidence in him. He’s a tremendous player, very smart, cerebral.”

Fordham goes on the road for its final two contests, November 16 at Latfayette and November 23 Colgate. If successful in those games, it is likely that Fordham will host a FCS playoff contest at Jack Coffey Field.

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Fordham Basketball Opens with Wins

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Fordham Basketball Opens with Wins: Fordham University Men’s and Women’s Hoopsters Win on First Day of 2013-14 Season Photos by Gary Quintal By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK,...

Fordham Basketball Opens with Wins

Fordham University Men’s and Women’s Hoopsters Win on First Day of 2013-14 Season

Photos by Gary Quintal

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 11- The first games of the 2013-14 college basketball season were played last Friday throughout the nation. In the Bronx, the men’s and women’s teams of Fordham University were both victorious in a Friday night doubleheader at the Rose Hill Gym.

The University of San Francisco Dons travelled 3,000 miles to drop its opening game, 80-66, to Fordham. In the second game, the Fordham men crushed the St. Francis University Red Flash, 87-67.

The visitors from California showed no ill effects from their cross country journey early in the contest as they took an eight point advantage with 11:47 remaining in the half. The Rams then scored nine unanswered points to take a 21-20 lead.

The half ended with Fordham ahead by nine points, 47-38. The first 20 minutes were closer than the lead appeared as there were three ties and six lead changes. Fordham controlled the boards with 26 rebounds to 11 for the Dons, which led the Rams to 15 second chance points to four for the Dons. The visitors led the Rams 11-0 in points off turnovers.

The top scorer of the first half was Hannah Missry. The New Jersey native continued her 3-point excellence from high school as she netted 4 for 8 from the perimeter to score 14 for the half.

The Rams quickly moved to a double digit lead in the second half. A three by Erin Rooney at 8:19 gave Fordham a game high advantage of 18 (67-49). They coasted to the victory.

Fordham senior Abigail Corning led the game in points with 22, 14 in the second half. Rooney achieved a double-double, 19 points and 10 boards. Missry finished with 14 and another Jersey freshman, Danielle Padavano, scored 10.

After two games on the road, the Rams will return to the Bronx to face University of the Pacific on Sunday afternoon, November 17.

Thirty minutes after the women’s contest concluded, the men tipped-off. As in the opening contest, the two teams competed evenly during the early minutes. The score was tied at 19 with 8:57 left in the first half. The Rams scored 17 straight points to gain the ninth lead change of the half and a double figure advantage that was never overturned. The half ended with Fordham leading, 45-27. Mandell Thomas paced the Rams with 13 points and six boards.

Fordham started the second half with a 12-4 scoring run to increase its advantage to 26 (57-31) at 16:24. The Rams were never challenged as their lead only dropped below 20 once in the final 18 minutes. Fordham coach Tom Pecora commented on the late game surge, “We decided to bear down, especially in the second half.

Freshman Jon Severe, New York State’s Mr. Basketball as a senior last year at Christ the King high school, led all scorers with 28 points, a Fordham mark for the first game of a college freshman. Severe was especially accurate from long range, netting 7 of 12 from 3-point range.

Seniors Bryan Smith (18) and Brandon Frazier (10) also scored in double figures. Pecora praised the two, “Great support and leadership from Bryan and Brandon.” Of Smith’s 7 for 14 shooting, Pecora remarked, “Bryan’s an exceptional shooter.”

Pecora although pleased with the result, warned his players and the team’s rooters against being overconfident, “It’s very good for us to come out of the gate like this. Every night is not going to be like this, but we hope many are.”

After a road contest at Syracuse, The Rams return home on Friday, November 15 to play Lehigh.  

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): City Island Eyesore

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): City Island Eyesore: Pols Sue to Stop New Bridge                                                                                                              ...

City Island Eyesore

Pols Sue to Stop New Bridge

                                                                                                                          

BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 8- Standing at the foot of the historic, 112-year old City Island bridge, Senator Klein, community leaders, and local business owners announced the filing of a civil lawsuit against the Department of Transportation as part of their effort to halt construction on the bridge's controversial new replacement. The new bridge's proposed design includes a 150-foot tower and an aesthetic that many residents believes threatens the unique and historic character that drives thousands of tourists to City Island each year. Despite serious concerns raised by community members, Island residents and business owners were never formally invited to be part of the process.

When the Department of Transportation announced work on a temporary bridge in late September, the City Island Civic Association met with Senator Klein to explore possible legal options. After meeting with the City Island Civic Association, Senator Klein, working with volunteer staff members from the offices of Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Assemblyman Mike Benedetto and Council Member Jimmy Vacca, developed a legal strategy to ensure that voices of City Islanders are heard and that the proposed design is subject to a more comprehensive review prior to construction. 

Senator Jeff Klein said, "Putting a cable-stayed bridge over Eastchester Bay is like telling the Starship Enterprise it can land at LaGuardia – it just doesn’t fit. We should not have to sacrifice the majesty of City Island in exchange for a 21st century bridge. As I have said all along, the community should have been consulted throughout this process. With the Department of Transportation moving ahead with a design that does not address some of the community's biggest concerns, I think it's important we file this lawsuit to make sure that the City Island community's voices are heard.

"After reviewing possible courses of action against the proposed design for the new bridge, I have worked with the Civic Association on developing a legal strategy. Working with the Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Assemblyman Mike Benedetto and Council Member Jimmy Vacca, I plan to do everything possible to ensure that the City Island community's voices are heard."   

City Island Civic Association Officer, Barbara Dolensek said, “For over 10 years the Civic Association has tried to get the Department of Transportation to honor our concerns about the new bridge, but they continue to force a bridge on us that City Island residents and business owners don't want. Finally, with the help of Senator Klein and other local elected officials, we have found a way to make sure our voices are heard!”  

In the lawsuit, the City Island Civic Association and Barbara Dolensek, challenge the action of the New York City Department of Transportation in moving forward with the replacement of the City Island Bridge and the construction of such replacement bridge by the contractor, Tutor Perini Corporation, without a completed Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (“ULURP) review. The ULURP review is required under Section 197-c of the New York City Charter. The purpose of the ULURP review is to measure the impact of proposed land uses and to take into account community input.

On September 30, 2013, the New York City Department of Transportation issued a Notice to Proceed with construction to Tutor Perini Corporation, without a completed ULURP review. As a result, NYC DOT is in violation of procedures set forth by ULURP.

The City Island Civic Association and Barbara Dolensek are seeking a Court order compelling a completed ULURP review prior to any funds being allocated or expended for or beginning construction in connection with the replacement of the City Island Bridge and a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction to maintain the status quo during the pendency of this action. As the press conference concluded, Senator Klein was notified that the temporary restraining order had been issued.

“The people of City Island have the right to voice their concerns or support for the construction of a new City Island Bridge, and this lawsuit will ensure that this proposed bridge is subject to complete review. I strongly believe that the DOT should begin the ULURP process immediately, so that City Island residents have their chance to speak out on this proposal before a single shovel hits the ground. City Island residents have expressed real concerns with the design and cost of this bridge and it is imperative that the ULURP be completed with transparency and collaboration with the residents and businesses of City Island before the City moves forward with its new design.  I look forward to an amicable resolution to this entire matter,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Assemblyman Mike Benedetto said: "The proposed bridge in no way reflects City Island's unique charm and seaside landscape. That's why I have stood with the residents, business owners, community leaders and local elected officials in supporting legal action against the new bridge. We know that a new bridge is necessary, but I believe that the design should incorporate the input of the community it serves."

“For years, I, along with my fellow elected officials and the City Island community, have expressed our concerns about this new bridge, but the Department of Transportation has done little to address these issues. Once this lawsuit is filed, we can let the courts decide if this project should proceed as planned,” said Council Member Jimmy Vacca.

City Island Chamber of Commerce President Skip Giacco said, "From the Chamber's point of view, City Island is successful as a destination because it offers an alternative to the high-rise, high-density parts of the city. If built, the bridge, in its current design, will mark the beginning of a change on City Island that many residents and business owners don't support. At the very least, I believe that taking legal action will help ensure that our community's input is taken seriously."

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Johnson Avenue Festival Sunday

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Johnson Avenue Festival Sunday: Riverdale Report By Robert Press BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 8- If you liked the recent Riverdale Avenue Festival, those folks at KRV...

Johnson Avenue Festival Sunday

Riverdale Report

By Robert Press

BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 8- If you liked the recent Riverdale Avenue Festival, those folks at KRVDC are at it again with the upcoming Johnson Avenue Festival that will tale place on Sunday, November 10^th on Johnson Avenue Between West 235^th & West 236^th Streets from 12 – 4 p.m. There will be live music, face painting, original art for sale, delicious food available, games, children's activities, informational advice by professionals in several fields, and lots more on the Johnson Avenue that day.

The Johnson Avenue Festival is held so people will get to know all the stores on and around Johnson Avenue, and an have an opportunity to spend some time on the New Johnson Avenue Shopping area. There are some new stores however with the recent closing of Oregano’s there are still several vacant stores in the Johnson Avenue shopping area. It is hoped that this festival may spark an idea or two that will fill one or two of those once thriving stores that are now empty.

On Thursday, November 7^th Community Board 8 will be having its Land Use Meeting at the Conservative Synagogue on West 254^th Street & the Henry Hudson Parkway service road north. There are three items scheduled on the agenda, and items 1 & 3 may be of interest to different people.

Item #1 is for a proposed six-story mixed use commercial, community, and residential building with a full two level parking cellar located at 5959 Broadway at West 242^nd Street & Manhattan College Parkway.

Item #3 is a presentation by Simone Management of demolition, construction, and development of an 11-story medical facility with parking. 3741 & 3735 Riverdale Avenue and 3644 Oxford Avenue are the current building addresses that are being demolished.

There is wide speculation about Item #3, which has been seen to be in drawings a recessed 11-story building from Riverdale Avenue. It is believed that an 11-story building can be built on Oxford Avenue next to a current 11-story co-op building, but the height can only be six stories on Riverdale Avenue.

This new medical building would be a partnership of Montifore Hospital which currently has a clinic on Johnson Avenue, and Westmed which manages three excellent medical facilities in Westchester County. This would be a full service facility of a hospital, but have no hospital beds. All medical testing and specialty doctors would be in the new medical facility as are in Westmeds current facilities that are in partnership with other hospitals. New jobs would be provided and this facility would be a great benefit to the community. More on what went on at this meeting in next week's column.

Don't forget to check my blog at www.100percentbronx.blogspot.com for the latest on both of these items, and other items such as the latest listing of events going on at Wave Hill, items that may come in after our deadline, and the photos of the events such as the upcoming Johnson Avenue Festival.

If you have any comments about this column or would like to have an event listed or covered in this column or on my blog you can e-mail us at 100percentbronxnews@gmail.com or call 718-644-4199 Mr. Robert Press.