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.

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Red Panda Cubs Make Their Zoo Debut

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Red Panda Cubs Make Their Zoo Debut: BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 8- Four red panda cubs are debuting at the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo and Prospect Park Zoo.  ...

Red Panda Cubs Make Their Zoo Debut

BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 8- Four red panda cubs are debuting at the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo and Prospect Park Zoo. 

Two cubs are at the Himalayan Highlands at the Bronx Zoo and two are at Discovery Trail at the Prospect Park Zoo.

Both litters consist of a male and female and were born this summer.

WCS has a successful history breeding red pandas at the Bronx, Central Park and Prospect Park Zoos as part of the Species Survival Plan, a cooperative breeding program administered by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums designed to enhance the genetic viability and demographic stability of animal populations in accredited zoos.

Red pandas are native to Nepal, India, Bhutan, China, and Myanmar. The subspecies of red panda at the Bronx Zoo (Ailurus fulgens fulgens) is found in the western part of their Himalayan range. The Prospect Park pandas (Ailurus fulgens refulgens) are a subspecies from the eastern portion of the range and are characteristically darker in color and slightly larger.

Panda cubs are born with a very soft, plush coat. They reach adulthood at around 18 months.

Adult red pandas have reddish-brown and black coats that serve as camouflage in the wild. They have an adaptation on their wrists much like a thumb that enables them to grasp food items like bamboo as well as tree branches.

The species is listed as “Vulnerable” by the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to habitat loss caused by deforestation for timber, fuel and agricultural use. Their population is declining. WCS works in China and Myanmar to save red pandas and other Asian wildlife. 

CAUGHT ON TAPE

http://www.youtube.com/v/uzeBE-wMSDM?version=3&autohide=1&showinfo=1&autoplay=1&feature=share&attribution_tag=v_4xp7Kp7T1SzuCnl9lSJA&autohide=1

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Not Too-Bright

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Not Too-Bright: Day-Glo Dimwit Caught on Tape By Dan Gesslein BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 7- If the burglar wanted to keep a low profile maybe he should ...

Not Too-Bright

Day-Glo Dimwit Caught on Tape

By Dan Gesslein

BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 7- If the burglar wanted to keep a low profile maybe he should not have worn the day-glo traffic safety vest when he was caught on camera ripping off a medical facility.

Although this criminal mastermind did keep his hoodie up when he robbed a West Farms medical center, he did not wear a mask. In addition the day-glo traffic safety vest helped illuminate his face when his image was caught on surveillance video.

At around 3:45 a.m. on November 2, cops say the suspect broke the glass door of a medical center at 979 Cross Bronx Expressway and robbed the center. The suspect is seen on video carrying a giant screen TV out of the facility. 

Police are also asking for the public’s help in catching suspects in another burglary caught on tape. At around 2:30 p.m. on September 21, the two suspects entered a University Heights apartment through a window. Cops say the pair removed electronic equipment and paperwork.

The first suspect is described as wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with a white shirt underneath, grey pants and white sneakers. The second suspect is described wearing a red and black baseball hat, a white hooded sweatshirt, green pants and black boots.

Anyone with information is urged to call CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 577-TIPS. The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers Website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM or texting their tips to 274637(CRIMES) then enter TIP577.

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Can Fordham Be Stopped?

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Can Fordham Be Stopped?: By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 6- On Saturday, the 8/9 nationally ranked Fordham Rams (9-0) gifted head coach Joe Moorhead wi...

Can Fordham Be Stopped?

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 6- On Saturday, the 8/9 nationally ranked Fordham Rams (9-0) gifted head coach Joe Moorhead with a come-from-behind 32-30 victory over the Holy Cross Crusaders (3-7) for his 40^th birthday. Fordham extended its undefeated season to nine games and earned the school the Ram-Crusader Cup, which is awarded to the winner of each contest between the two.

The capacity crowd at Jack Coffey Field in the Bronx was given a jolt early in the game as it appeared Fordham could lose its first game of the 2013 season. Fordham’s first scoring attempt, a 22-yard field goal by Michael Marando, was unsuccessful at 8:20 of the first quarter.

On the next drive of the contest, the Crusaders moved the ball 80 yards for the first score as quarterback Peter Pujals ran the ball for five yards and a touchdown. The extra point was missed.

Fordham took its first lead of the game on the next series of downs as Calvin Koonce, the team’s leading rusher, scored on an 11-yard carry. Fordham led, 7-6, at the end of the quarter.

The outcome looked bleak as the Crusaders scored the next 17 points. The first of those points was scored on a 13-yard touchdown pass from Pujals to Kyle Toulouse.

A 52-yard complete pass from Fordham quarterback Michael Nebrich to Tebucky Jones did not result in a touchdown as a fumble was forced and recovered by Holy Cross on its one yard line. 

After the contest, Jones remarked, “I made a mistake; that’s not acceptable. That’s not going to happen again.” 

It didn’t on Saturday as Jones completed the game with 120 yards on six receptions. Jones has 59 receptions and 789 yards this year. The Crusader possession following the fumble ended with a 46 yard field goal kicked by John Macomber.

Later in the second, a Nebrich pass was intercepted at the Holy Cross goal line, preventing another Fordham touchdown. The new possession by the Crusaders concluded with a Holy Cross touchdown instead, which brought the score to 23-7.

The final score of the first half was a 10-yard touchdown run by Nebrich.

Fordham exhibited its resilience in the second. After the contest, Morrhead said of his team, “In the second half, the team showed outstanding character.”

Nebrich scored his second touchdown of the afternoon on a seven-yard run on Fordham’s first drive of the second half for the only score by either squad in the third quarter.

Fordham next scored seven seconds into the final period as Nebrich threw a 26-yard touchdown pass to Brian Wetzel. Dan Light scored the two-point conversion to give the Rams a 29-23 advantage.

The next Fordham drive culminated in a 39-field goal by Marando.

The final Crusader touchdown shortened the Fordham lead to 32-30, but was too late to alter the outcome of the contest.

Records were set by the Rams in the victory. The team broke its single game mark for total offense with 700 yards. Nebrich broke two of John Skelton’s single game records, passing yards gained with 524 on 39 completions of 49 attempts and total offense yards with 556.

Significant contributions were also made by others. Calvin Koonce gained 146 yards on the ground and 38 on three receptions. For the second straight year, he exceeded 1,000 yards (1,025) on the ground this season.

Sam Ajala gained 189 yards on 12 receptions, the junior leads the Rams with 64 receptions and 1,140 yards gained.

Linebacker Stephen Hodge had a career-high 15 tackles, 14 unassisted and four for yards lost. Moordhead praised the junior in a post-game press conference, “He’s a playmaker. The kid knows how to play the game of football.”

The night before the game, Moorhead told his players of the Heavyweight Championship bout in 1990 between Mike Tyson and Buster Douglas in which the prohibitive favorite, Tyson, lost. Moorhead explained the purpose of the story, “I didn’t want us to be overconfident or take our opponent too lightly.” 

That possibility, the one-week bye and costly turnovers that Moorhead said, “Didn’t allow us to take advantage [of the yards we gained]” may have led to a slow start, but did not prevent Fordham from being victorious.

Fordham’s next game will be against Bucknell at 1 pm on Saturday, November 9. It will be the final home game of the regular season.

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): DeBlasio, DeBlasio

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): DeBlasio, DeBlasio: 100 PERCENT By Robert Press Since my deadline is before Election Day I can not give you the results until next week where I will try to expl...

DeBlasio, DeBlasio

100 PERCENT

By Robert Press

Since my deadline is before Election Day I can not give you the results until next week where I will try to explain why it happened. Our headline was sung by newly elected Public Advocate Letitia James who was on hand with local Councilman Andy King, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Congressman Eliot Engel, Assemblyman Carl Heastie, and others on Monday November 4th when Bill deBlasio visited the Bay Eden Senior Center in the Edenwald section of the Bronx. This was a multi-part visit as the local elected officials warmed up the crowd of seniors before deBlasio arrived. Once Bill deBlasio arrived he was whisked to the front where the elected officials were speaking to give a last day reason why the voters at the senior center should vote for him. Deblasio said that people should not take his large lead in the polls as an excuse not to come out and vote, but urged all present to go vote on Tuesday November 5th. DeBlasio once again went through all the reasons why people should vote for him and not one of his opponents.

After deBlasio finished speaking he went around the room shaking hands with as many seniors as he could, and then went outside to hold a press conference. “The road to City Hall runs right through the Bronx” deBlasio said. He thanked Bronx Councilman Andy King for his support from the beginning when he announced that he was running for Mayor, and also said that he had supported Andy King in his special election race after the removal of former Councilman Larry Seabrook. After also thanking Bronx BP Ruben Diaz Jr., Bronx Democratic County Leader Carl Heastie, and Congressman Eliot Engel deBlasio took a few questions from the reporters gathered, and then left for another engagement.

After the press conference, I was able to catch BP Diaz and Assemblyman Heastie and ask them what they are expecting from new Mayor Bill deBlasio. Diaz said that he expects a fair shake from Mayor deBlasio on the problems of the Bronx. Diaz went into the subjects of schools, housing, senior services, and rattled off a few more areas that it seems the Bronx did not get enough services or aid. When I asked if he was worried about the Fresh Direct and Kingsbridge armory deals that were done through Mayor Bloomberg. Diaz replied that those projects are already in the pipeline.

As for just how the Mayor's race will go has to be explained in two different ways. First citywide the vote should be 65 – 70 percent for Bill deBlasio, 27 – 35 percent for Joe Lhota with up to 3 percent for all other candidates including 1 - 1.5 percent for Adolfo Carrion citywide. The Bronx vote is harder to gauge since Carrion is the former Bronx Borough President. I would have to guess 67 – 77 percent for Bill deBlasio, 10 – 15 percent for Joe Lhota, and 8 – 16 percent for the other candidates. It is most likely that Adolfo Carrion could finish second in the Bronx.

You can go to my blog at www.100percentbronx.blogspot.com to read more and see photos of the “Shop and Frisk” demonstration that was held last Friday in front of the Macy's store in Parkchester. The demonstration was organized by Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda, with help from Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. and Assemblyman Marcos Crespo. 35 police officers were on hand to pen in the 75 protesters in the intersection opposite Macy's on Metropolitan Avenue. It was said that most Macy stores have jails (cells) to intimidate minority shoppers that Macy security have followed and accuse of shoplifting. Senator Diaz said that this is illegal and has introduced legislation to stop this “Shop and Frisk” of minority shoppers. 86 A.D. Assemblyman Elect Victor Pichardo was on hand to tell of his story as a teenager of this treatment that he went through. The chant of the crowd ended up “Shame on You Macy's”.

The Bronx Young Democrats had a hand here in the Bronx with the Bill deBlasio campaign. Several members of BYD were manning the offices that were used by the deBlasio campaign here in the Bronx. Look for some of these BYD's to be running for office soon, that is District Leader or State Committee party positions as a start next year maybe.

One famous South Park line is “They Killed Kenny”, and is it possible that the political life of Kenny Agosto is now dead. Kenny who was once considered a challenger to former Assemblywoman Naomi Rivera was thrown off the ballot in this year's 15th City council race. He then threw his support behind Albert Alvarez who finished a distant fourth in the council race. Kenny also was redistricted out of the 80th A.D. into the 78th A.D., so he will no longer be the Male District Leader of the 80th A.D. Also look for some other changes in the Liberty Democratic Association after Ritchie Torres has been elected to the City Council.

While I am on the subject of the city council could it be that councilwoman Melissa Mark-Vittero is the choice for speaker by Mayor Bill deBlasio when he gets elected. More next week.

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.