Bronx News (Bxnews.net): National Night Out

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): National Night Out: WAKEFIELD AREA NEWS By Bill Ludwig BRONX, NEW YORK, July 31- The 29th annual National Night Out (NNO) against crime will be held on Tu...

National Night Out

WAKEFIELD AREA NEWS

By Bill Ludwig

BRONX, NEW YORK, July 31- The 29th annual National Night Out (NNO) against crime will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 7th.

The 47th precinct will be holding NNO activities from 5-8 p.m. at Grenada Place between Ely Avenue and Laconia Avenue, across the street from the 47^th precinct.

This year's theme is “Respect Your Neighbors - Think Quality of Life!” The opening ceremony will be at 6 p.m. The event is being co-sponsored by the 47^th Precinct and the 47^th Precinct Community Council. Deputy Inspector Paul DeEntremont and Community Affairs Officers David Belle and Gary Bucknell and the 47^th Precinct Community Council have planned an enjoyable afternoon and evening for children and adults.

Our elected representatives have been invited. There will be representatives at tables from New York City agencies, and other organizations who will be giving out valuable free information. Refreshments will be served.

For children's activities there will be rides and games. There will also be entertainment for the community to enjoy. The slogans this year are: Say No To Drugs, Help Unite Our Community, No All Night Parties, Talk to Your Neighbors, Love Your Block, Do Not Block Your Neighbors Driveways, No Loud Music, and A Quiet Neighborhood is a Good Neighborhood.

Bring the family out, learn about crime prevention, and have fun at the same time.

So, what exactly is NNO? It is a unique crime/drug prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW). The NATW is a nationwide organization dedicated to the development, maintenance, and promotion of community-based, law enforcement- affiliated crime prevention activities.

NNO is designed to: (1) Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; (2) Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs; (3) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and (4) Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

Along with the traditional display of outdoor lights and front porch vigils, cities, towns and neighborhoods "celebrate" NNO with a variety of events and activities such as: block parties, cookouts, visits from local police, parades, flashlight walks, contests, and youth programs. An event doesn't have to be big or elaborate. It can be as simple as having a conversation in a neighbor's yard.

The important thing is to talk to your neighbors and plan to get together. NNO has proven to be an effective, inexpensive and enjoyable program to promote neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships in our fight for a safer nation. More than 37 million people are expected to participate in various anti-crime programs and activities this year.

Remember, the key to participating in NNO is: turn your outside lights on, come outside to meet your neighbors, and participate in your neighborhood's special events. This way you can be a part of the nation's largest annual crime/drug prevention event on Tuesday evening, August 7th.

Dominican Parade

(Photos by Gary Quintal)

The Grand Concourse became a sea of celebration as thousands celebrated the annual Bronx Dominican Parade. In addition to various groups performing, many cultural dancers excited the crowd and celebrated Dominican Pride. 

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): St. Theresa Feast

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): St. Theresa Feast: (Photos by Gary Quintal and Dan Gesslein) Fun seekers and the faithful flocked to the St. Theresa Feast in Pelham Bay. On Sunday, the ...

St. Theresa Feast

(Photos by Gary Quintal and Dan Gesslein)

Fun seekers and the faithful flocked to the St. Theresa Feast in Pelham Bay. On Sunday, the faithful took part in a procession to honor the saint. Outside the church rose petals were dropped onto the crowds and the statue of the saint. Children of all ages enjoyed the rides and games as well as the occasional zeppole and sausage and pepper sandwich. 

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Tennis Returns to the Bronx

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Tennis Returns to the Bronx: BRONX, NEW YORK, July 27- Tennis fans from around the world will once again descend on the Bronx next as part of the yearly EmblemHealt...

Tennis Returns to the Bronx

BRONX, NEW YORK, July 27- Tennis fans from around the world will once again descend on the Bronx next as part of the yearly EmblemHealth Bronx Open.

The event is held from August 5-12, 2012 at Crotona Park, Bronx. This year's EmblemHealth Bronx Open is a $50,000 USTA sanctioned Challenger Event, attracting some of best Women Tennis Professional players in the world as they prepare for the US Open Championships at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.

EmblemHealth is the title sponsor of the EmblemHealth Bronx Open, an USTA sanctioned $50,000 women's tennis tournament Challenger Event. The tournament is held at Crotona Park, in the Bronx, New York from August 5-12, 2012. Fans have the opportunity to watch WTA Tour professionals from around the world ranked in the top 200, some of whom who will compete in the main draw of the 2012 US Open Championships at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, Queens.

Tennis players, enthusiasts and spectators are invited to a fun-filled week of free special events at Crotona Park, the Bronx.

Activities include adult and junior tennis clinics, EmblemHealth Fitness Day For Kids, New York's Bravest (New York Fire Department) vs. New York's Finest (New York Police Department) Tournament, and the Disney Kids' Around the World Day Parade displaying the enthusiasm and artistic talents of NYJTL participants proudly marching with their 10-foot banners. 

2011 EmblemHealth Bronx Open Women's Singles Final Recap:

In its 18th year as title sponsor of the 2011 EmblemHealth Bronx Open, EmblemHealth continued to partner with the New York Junior Tennis League (NYJTL) to promote education and leading a healthy, active lifestyle for children and families in New York City.

Andrea Hlavackova, of the Czech Republic, was the winner over Mona Barthel, 7-6, 6-3, in a hard-hitting singles final played indoors at Riverside Tennis Club in Riverdale when the match had to be moved due to torrential downpours. It was the second time in the tournament’s history that the event final was played indoors.

Throughout the tournament, special events were geared to the dual messages of using tennis to boost academic and athletic performance. Activities included Kids’ Fitness Day, daily free tennis lessons, and distribution of more than 2,000 free books to kids. At the Disney Kids’ Day Parade, more than 2,000 children from NYJTL programs marched through in Crotona Park with banners they designed during their summer programs.

Cablevision has supported the EmblemHealth Bronx Open for the six years broadcasting the finals, filming ancillary tournament events, and packaging the final product to air on Cablevision’s Neighborhood Journal. 

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): The Bionic Senator and the Convicted Councilman

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): The Bionic Senator and the Convicted Councilman: 100 PERCENT By Robert Press State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. has announced that he will be going in for “Knee Transplant Surgery,” an...

The Bionic Senator and the Convicted Councilman

100 PERCENT

By Robert Press

State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. has announced that he will be going in for “Knee Transplant Surgery,” and will be better than before. In fact, Senator Diaz said in a press release, he will become “The Bionic Senator.” 

Diaz Sr. had the knee surgery on July 26th and according to him he will be out of action for 5 or 6 weeks to recover. Diaz Sr. adds that he knows that it is election time and with him up for re-election this bed rest will be torture for him. His doctor has told him that he will be back stronger, better, and faster which kind of reminds us of the television show years ago called “The Six Million Dollar Man.” You can read more at my blog at www.100percentbronx.blogspot.com.

The second trial of Councilman Larry Seabrook is over, and Seabrook this time was convicted on 9 of the 12 charges against him. This trial centered on the $177.00 bagel receipt that Seabrook had submitted to be reimbursed for which was said to be doctored. We wonder if it was a plain, sesame, poppy or everything bagel. Check my blog for comments on the decision.

Also go to my blog to see the car that current State Senate Minority Leader John Sampson is reported to have smashed up. The Ford Taurus valued at over $35,000 was totaled, but the cost of the crash now estimated at over $70,000 continues to mount as the other cars involved have their damage estimates revealed.

Hopefully the Con Edison lockout is over by the time you read this, but a Con Edison spokesman has admitted that outside contractors have been brought in to help during the lockout. He said that Con Ed is also paying for all expenses by the outside contractors which will be passed on to their customers. Since Con Ed is not paying its regular workers will their consumers then get a refund on that.

We don't have enough room to discuss the proposed sugary soda ban by Mayor Bloomberg, which will be approved by his puppets at the Health Department. We just hope that more city council members oppose the proposed ban like Bronx Councilman G. Oliver Koppell. By the way Council Majority Leader Joel Rivera where do you stand and why.

Lastly it appears that those 26 public schools that the mayor wanted to close for poor performance will get to stay open as was the court decision. We have to agree with the mayor about closing schools that perform poorly, but how many have been closed over and over again? By the way it is only a mirror of the mayor’s failed education policy when he only cracked down on the third and seventh grades by holding back students so that next year the 4th and 8th grade test scores would look better at the time of an election year. Since many students do not know the names of almost all of their elected officials and important people in history, we would love to know how many students know the name of the current mayor of New York City. Ed Koch, Barrack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Derek Jeter would probably top the list of countless names.

If you have another name that may top the list, have any comments about this column, 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): Jerry Seinfeld to Play Lehman

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Jerry Seinfeld to Play Lehman: BRONX, NEW YORK, July 26- For the first time in 14 years, Jerry Seinfeld is presenting full performances of his signature stand-up com...

Jerry Seinfeld to Play Lehman

BRONX, NEW YORK, July 26- For the first time in 14 years, Jerry Seinfeld is presenting full performances of his signature stand-up comedy in New York City. Seinfeld will perform five stand-up shows – one in each New York City borough – on five Thursday nights this Fall.

Seinfeld, a New York native, got his start as a comedian in the City in the 1970s, but other than appearing at benefits and occasional short sets at local comedy clubs, he has not performed a full show in a NYC theater since his sold-out Broadway engagement, “I’m Telling You For The Last Time,” at the Broadhurst Theater in 1998, shortly after the final episode of his iconic TV show, Seinfeld.

"I was born in Brooklyn, went to school in Queens and started out as a comedian in Manhattan. I feel like New York City taught me how to be funny. I'm so excited to perform a special series of shows for my beloved home town," said Seinfeld.

Seinfeld’s five-borough performances will all fall on Thursday nights – the same as the television show that bore his name – and will feature special guest Colin Quinn, who Seinfeld directed in the hit Broadway show “Colin Quinn: Long Story Short” at the Helen Hayes Theater in 2010-11.

Tickets for all five-borough shows go on sale to the general public on Monday, July 30 at 10 am. All performances begin at 8pm. 

PLAYING SCHEDULE:

Manhattan

Thursday, October 4, 2012 at 8pm

The Beacon Theatre located at 2124 Broadway

Tickets are available online at www.BeaconTheatre.com or by calling 866-858-0008

Bronx

Thursday, October 11, 2012 at 8pm

Lehman Concert Hall located at 250 Bedford Park Boulevard West

Tickets are available online at www.LehmanCenter.org or by calling 718-960-8833

Queens (Flushing)

Thursday, October 18, 2012 at 8pm

The Colden Auditorium at Queens College located at 65-30 Kissena Blvd.

Tickets are available online at www.KupferbergCenter.org or by calling 718-793-8080

Staten Island

Thursday, November 1, 2012 at 8pm

The St. George Theatre located at 35 Hyatt Street

Tickets are available online at www.TicketMaster.com or by calling 718-442-2900

Brooklyn

Thursday, November 8, 2012 at 8pm

The Walt Whitman Theatre at Brooklyn College located at 2900 Campus Road

Tickets are available online at www.BrooklynCenter.com or by calling 718-951-4500

Stop and Frisk Will Save Lives- Marine Says

By David Greene

BRONX, NEW YORK, July 26- A former Marine from Bedford Park has come out with a new video headed for YouTube, where he defends the NYPD's right in the 'stop and frisk' issue, now pointing to two incidents in his life, one being shot in the south Bronx, while driving a livery taxi-- and more recently, when young punks threw garbage at him in a subway near his home.

Over the years, Ronald James Sorenson, 73, a self-taught lobbyist, has come to the aid of the American flag, defending, "Old Glory," from flag-burning, he has walked to Washington, DC., carrying a monkey, to force law-makers to take a second look at a citizen's right to have exotic pets.

After a recent incident in Kingsbridge, Sorenson, a former member of the U.S. Marine's Boxing Team, decided to make the two-minute video in support of the NYPD. He recalled, "I was coming out of the subway and passed these young kids and as I passed, they threw garbage at me."

In his day, Sorenson would have flattened the trio, but now says, "These days you don't know who has a gun or who will shoot you for absolutely no reason."

Sorenson knows about being shot, he was driving a livery cab in 1969, when he was held-up in the Fort Apache section of the Bronx. Sorenson recalls, "They shot me in one leg and it went through and hit me in the other leg."

Believing that the day of the suicide bomber coming to the New York City Transit system-- is right around the corner, Sorenson adds, "I'm all for Civil rights, but stop and frisk will save lives. The sooner they realize that, the more lives will be saved."

According to the New York Civil Liberties Union and the NYPD's own statistics, the police department has conducted 4 million stop and frisk searches since 2002, when Mayor Michael Bloomberg took office.

With 685,724 of those stop and frisks taking place in 2011, some 600,000 or 88 percent of those stopped were completely innocent of any crime.

On Tuesday, June 26, a Manhattan Appellate court supported Justice Peter Tom's decision to exclude a gun as evidence, after a Bronx cop arrested a teen found to be carrying the gun during a stop and frisk search.

On May 16, a federal judge approved a class-action lawsuit against the NYPD relating to stop and frisk.

Sorenson's, 'Stop and frisk' video can be found at: 

 http://youtu.be/XehbGDRrOFI

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Cheer Up Supe, You Can Always Play for the Eagles

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Cheer Up Supe, You Can Always Play for the Eagles: Superintendent Charged with Running Massive Dog Fighting Ring in Apartment Building BRONX, NEW YORK, July 25- Distri...

Cheer Up Supe, You Can Always Play for the Eagles

Superintendent Charged with Running Massive Dog Fighting Ring in Apartment Building

BRONX, NEW YORK, July 25- District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced that a grand jury has indicted building superintendent Raul Sanchez on numerous charges of animal fighting and cruelty, including the staging of dog fights, as well as breeding, training and selling dogs for the purpose of having them engage in fights.   

This indictment is the result of a long-term investigation conducted by the Bronx County District Attorney’s Office and the New York City Police Department. 

Sanchez, 57, of 1254 Sherman Avenue, the Bronx, has been charged with 63 counts of prohibition of animal fighting, 13 of which are felony offenses; 6 counts of aggravated cruelty to animals; 6 counts of overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; and one count of criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree. The most serious offense, Prohibition of Animal Fighting, is punishable by a maximum sentence of up to 4 years in prison.

The charges in this indictment are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Sanchez, who was arrested on June 21, 2012, was arraigned on the indictment before State Supreme Court Justice George Villegas. Justice Villegas adjourned the case to August 3, 2012 in Part 60. Sanchez is being held in lieu of bail set at $50,000 cash or $25,000 bond.        

It is alleged that the dogfights, as well as the breeding, training and selling of the animals occurred between October, 2011 and June, 2012 in the basement of 1254 Sherman Avenue. When investigators executed search warrants at that location on June 21, 2012 they recovered 50 Pit Bull terriers, six treadmills, several rubber tires, scales, and various medicines. Also recovered were a fighting ring and carpeting both of which were stained with blood. The dogs, found housed in cages which were stacked in a room at the rear of the basement, ranged in age from several weeks to five years and were in varying stages of health. Many of the animals had scars which were consistent with dog fighting.      

The dogs were removed and placed in the custody and control of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals where they are receiving medical treatment and being evaluated for adoption, if possible. 

District Attorney Johnson thanked the following for their hard work during the nearly year-long investigation: Assistant District Attorney Elizabeth Brandler of the Rackets Bureau, Detective Investigators Rocco Galasso and John Reilly of the Bronx County District Attorney’s Office, NYPD Detective John Zerafa of the Vice Enforcement Division, Major Case Bureau, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the not-for-profit animal welfare group United Action for Animals.

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Fight Over Barmaid Led to Cold Blooded Murder-DA

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Fight Over Barmaid Led to Cold Blooded Murder-DA:   BRONX, NEW YORK, July 25- District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced the conviction of a 28-year-old man on murder and illegal gun...

Fight Over Barmaid Led to Cold Blooded Murder-DA

 

BRONX, NEW YORK, July 25- District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced the conviction of a 28-year-old man on murder and illegal gun possession charges stemming from a dispute over a barmaid in January 2008.

William Gay, of Washington Avenue, the Bronx, was found guilty on one count of murder in the second degree and one count of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree in connection with the death of Glenn Terrell. Terrell, 27, was shot once in the back of the head on the sidewalk in front of the Crystal Lounge Bar at 1035 Prospect Avenue.

State Supreme Court Justice Ann Donnelly set sentencing for Monday, August 6, 2012 in Part H96. Gay is facing a maximum sentence of 25 years to life on the murder charge and up to 15 years imprisonment on the gun charge. The jury deliberated for about five hours, following a nearly two-week long trial, before reaching the guilty verdict.

During the course of the trial, the jury heard testimony that the female bartender and the deceased had planned to spend time together at his apartment when her shift ended. As preparations were being made to close the bar, the woman stepped outside to smoke a cigarette and saw the defendant with whom she had also had a casual social encounter a few weeks earlier. When the woman greeted Gay and the two exchanged kisses, Terrell, the deceased, told her that she was leaving with him. Gay responded by shooting Terrell in the back of his head with a 9MM semi-automatic handgun.

Saying Goodbye to a Special Lady

(Photo by Seitu Oronde)



Obituary



Long-time Co-op City resident Hilda R. Clinkscales passed away last

week. Born December 26, 1924 in Trenton, New Jersey Hilda united with

God, her spouse, parents, and her siblings on Thursday June 28th, 2012

at 7:25 a.m.



Hilda joins her husband William Clinkscales who she married in 1943.

Hilda’s parents Louis Walter Robeson and Maude Redding will be in

heaven to greet their loving daughter. Hilda will also join her three

brothers: Lewis Walter Robeson, William Robeson and Lewis Benjamin

Robeson, and her sisters: Mary Elizabeth Robeson, Marion Robeson,

Rosie Robeson, Margaret Watson, and May Robeson. Hilda leaves behind:

one sister, Maude Westfield, and a host of cousins, among them she

leaves cousins: Claude E. White, Freddiejean Clinkscales, Sarah

Clinkscales and Linda McCoy; and two loving sons-in-law; Norman McLeod

and Robert Jones. Children: Sharon McLeod, Seitu Oronde’ and Mary

Jones. Grand children: Jamaal McLeod, Akilah Jones, Ayana Jones and

Jamaal’s wife Charise McLeod. Hilda was blessed to have known her

great grandchildren: Kristen, Zoё and Isaiah McLeod.



Hilda Clinkscales retired from Revlon Cosmetic Company. Hilda was an

elegant lady of dignity, class, and carried herself as such. Our

mother was kind hearted, loved to laugh, and extremely giving. She was

a wonderful and beautiful lady who loved to make people happy.

Hilda was known to her children as mom and mom-zee. Our mom-zee was

full of knowledge, information, and could give advice about every and

anything. She was a pleasant lady who never complained. Hilda loved to

cook. All were welcomed at her table. She was known for her chicken

and dumplings, ham seasoned with cloves, collard greens, mac and

cheese, lemon pie, and coconut three layer cakes with pineapples,

carrot cake, homemade biscuits and above all else, her famous peach

cobbler.



Hilda enjoyed and lived her life through her children. Our mother was

an inspirational lady full of wisdom. Our mom-zee was a devout

Christian lady who honored God by giving her children psalm23 to carry

with them and always told them to look to God. Mom would say, “Give it

to God and say bless you, bless you, anytime there is an obstacle in

your way.”



Mom taught us to always stand strong and never let anyone put

limitations on your achievements. Hilda provided all three of her

children with a college education. Mom would always say, “You want to

be able to stand on your own two feet and not have to depend on

anyone, that’s why you need your education.”



Our mom enjoyed traveling and spending time with her friends and

children. She also enjoyed giving to charities.



Our mom is a queen and formed special bonds with her son in laws. They

love her dearly. Mom has always stressed the importance of family and

made them welcome in our family. Mom took great pride in her children.

Mom was a happy and kind lady and always had words of encouragement

for her children. Hilda passed her courage, wisdom and strength onto

her children who she loved unconditionally. Our mother has always been

a story teller and we know she is telling stories in heaven.



Hilda Clinkscales, a great mom and friend, will never be forgotten and

will be in our hearts and prayers forever. We trust in god that she is

at peace.

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Music Heats Up Park

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Music Heats Up Park: (Photos by Gary Quintal) Bronxites got the chance to beat the heat and enjoy a summer night of great music. The NY Philharmo...

Music Heats Up Park

(Photos by Gary Quintal)

Bronxites got the chance to beat the heat and enjoy a summer night of


great music. The NY Philharmonic played Van Cortlandt Park as part of

the annual Concerts in the Park Series.

Eastchester Heights Goes Green

 

(Mayor Bloomberg hosted an event to congratulate Taconic Investment Partners and Clarion Partners on conversion to natural gas at Eastchester Heights.- Photo by Jill Lotenberg)

BRONX, NEW YORK, July 24- Mayor Michael Bloomberg recently hosted an event to congratulate Taconic Investment Partners and Clarion Partners on their conversion from #6 heating oil to natural gas at Eastchester Heights, a 1400-unit rent-stabilized development that was one of the city’s top 10 users of heavy oil.

The conversion will reduce carbon emissions at the property by nearly 60 percent while lowering energy costs by at least 25 percent. The changeover also enables Eastchester Heights to opt out of its Title V air permit and makes it eligible for emission reduction credits.

At the event, Mayor Bloomberg also announced more than $100 million in financing and other new resources to help city buildings convert to cleaner fuels. The financing and assistance results from innovative partnerships between leading banks, energy providers and environmental groups, and are a part of the NYC Clean Heat program the Mayor launched in 2011 to help buildings meet cleaner fuel requirements.

Bullets Fly at Anti-Violence Gathering

Four-Year-Old Gunned Down
 

By David Greene

BRONX, NEW YORK, July 23- For the second time in two days and the third time in a week, three Bronxites were wounded by a senseless act of violence and in the latest incident-- has claimed the life of a four-year old child.

At just after 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 22, police were called to the Forest Houses at E. 165 Street and Tinton Avenue, where gunfire erupted on the basketball court. A memorial basketball game was being held for another youngster, who died on the surrounding streets of Morrisania.

Police say the victim, Lloyd Morgan, 4, was struck in the head by a stray-shot as 100 residents were watching the end of a two-day memorial basketball tournament that was being held in honor of a 15-year old resident who was stabbed to death last summer.

Paramedics rushed Morgan to Lincoln Hospital, where the child was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police and EMS report a 27-year-old man was shot in the stomach and is reported to be recovering at Lincoln Hospital. A 31-year-old male was hit in the arm and was transported to St. Barnabas Hospital, where the unidentified man is recovering, said to be in stable condition.

Police sources would only say that as many as 20 rounds were fired by two assailants, one brandishing a 9mm, the other a .45-caliber handgun.

After visiting the scene, State Assemblyman Eric Stevenson appeared to have done an about face on the, "Stop-and-frisk" issue, telling reporters, "We should really consider not stopping stop-and-frisk... I'm going to have to start supporting stop-and-frisk."

It appears that distraught father Lloyd Morgan, Sr., 26, can not break away from tragedy-- in 2006 Morgan was unaware that his heavy-set girlfriend Shelly Courcelle was pregnant.

Police would discover that the child had been strangled. Courcelle remains incarcerated after pleading guilty to manslaughter.

Witnesses to the gunfire recalled the pandemonium as the crowd rushed to exit the court, moments after the shooting and how mother's braved the uncertainty of more gunfire in a frantic search of the grounds for their kids.

One resident noted, "The irony is that this was an anti-violence memorial game... I mean, who in their right mind brings a gun to a memorial."

One nearby resident would not go as far as saying that last year's stabbing death and this shooting were related, but predicted more violence, stating, "We haven't seen the end of this."

Forest Houses is a New York City Housing Authority- (NYCHA) run complex made up of 15 buildings that sits on a 19.62-acre parcel of land that houses more than 3,300 residents.

Suzuki in Pinstripes

Yanks Obtain Future Hall of Famer Ichiro Suzuki  

(Photo by Ken Carozza)

By Howard Goldin

The days are winding down before the trading deadline of July 31. Teams that are currently in contention for a berth in the post-season are looking to obtain outstanding players to fill the positions in which they are weak from teams no longer in the running to be in the playoffs.

On Monday evening, it was announced that the Yankees obtained outfielder Ichiro Suzuki from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for two 25-year-old right handed pitchers in the Yankees minor league system, D.J. Mitchell and Danny Farquhar. 

The recent announcement that leftfielder Bret Gardner needs surgery and most likely will not return to active duty this year and a recent injury to Nick Swisher have greatly depleted the Yankees outfield corps. Acquiring Ichiro will greatly upgrade defense in the outfield and the batting order for the Yanks. It is easier for Ichiro to more quickly join the team as the Yanks are currently playing a three game series in Seattle. 

The 38-year old has compiled one of the great records in baseball history. During nine seasons, 1992-2000, in the Pacific league in Japan, Ichiro batted .353. He led his league in batting average seven straight seasons and was MVP three times. 

He left his native land in 2001 to prove what he could accomplish in MLB in the United States. He wasted no time in exhibiting his talent as he was the second player in major league history to be chosen Rookie-of-the-Year and Most Valuable Player in his rookie year.

In his first 10 seasons in the majors, Ichiro was elected a member of the American League All-Star Team. His prowess in the outfield cannot be denied as he was a Gold Glove recipient in each of those 10 seasons.

Speaking of moving to left to replace Gardner, Ichiro commented, “I haven’t played left for a long time, to be honest with you. But the last time I played left was a playoff game, my first playoff game in Yankee Stadium, so it’s a very memorable position for me for that reason.”

After wearing #51 since he joined the Mariners, Ichiro chose #31 as he recognized wearing the number worn by Yankees icon Bernie Williams could prove to be an embarrassment.

After receiving a standing ovation from the Seattle fans on Monday evening before his first trip to the plate as a Yankee, Ichiro raised his cap and respectfully bowed to the crowd. The .322 lifetime average batter rapped a single to center. The hit was his 106^th of the season and his 23,534^th in the majors. He then showed the danger of allowing him to reach base as he stole second. The steal was his 16^th in 18 attempts in 2012 and his 439^th career steal.

The hit and steal will, almost surely, be the first of many for his new team in the Bronx. The new Yankee should get a big welcome when the team returns to the Bronx on Friday.

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Soccer Debuts at Yankee Stadium

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Soccer Debuts at Yankee Stadium: (Photos by NY Yankees) By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, July 23- Soccer, the world’s most popular spectator sport...

Soccer Debuts at Yankee Stadium

(Photos by NY Yankees)

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, July 23- Soccer, the world’s most popular spectator sport, made its debut at the most iconic sports stadium in the United States, Yankee Stadium, on Sunday evening. The current Yankee Stadium will be hosting two of the matches being played as part of the Herbalife World Football Challenge.

The Bronx, the home to natives of many nations from all corners of the globe, will welcome football stars from four world renowned teams representing four countries, England, France, Italy, and Spain, this summer.

The international appeal of soccer is illustrated by the number of nations represented on the rosters of the two clubs that played on Sunday, 11 on the English side (Chelsea) and 8 on the club from Paris (PSG). The manager of each side is an Italian national, Roberto Di Matteo of Chelsea and Carlo Ancelotti of PSG.

Fans of Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain or world class soccer in general were welcomed to the neighborhood by several of the area’s eateries, Billy’s, Crown Diner, The Dugout, Stan’s and Yankee Tavern miniature soccer balls inscribed for the special occasion were distributed at each restaurant.

Dr. Cary Goodman, executive director of the 161^st Street Business Improvement District (BID), who inspired the promotion, described its purpose, “We’re used to having sports fans from around the world visit our district in The Bronx. We want them to see and feel how happy we are to greet guests. The souvenirs are our way of saying, ‘Thanks for coming’.”

As Yankee Stadium’s infield and outfield were transformed into a 110’ by 70”soccer pitch, two first division clubs took the field for a friendly match. The English entry, Chelsea FC, is visiting the U.S. in the wake of a superlative season. It captured the FA title in England with a victory over Liverpool. On May 19, Chelsea had a penalty kick win over favored Bayren Munich in the latter’s home field.

On July 18, Chelsea was victorious over the Seattle Sounders of the MLS in its first of three contests in the United States this summer.

The match at Yankee Stadium was only the third between the two soccer powers. Both previous matches occurred during the 2004-5 UEFA Champions League competition. Chelsea was the winner of the first match in Paris, 3-0, on goals by veteran John Terry and Didier Drogba (2). The second contest ended in a scoreless tie, 0-0.

Shortly after 7 p.m., the match on Sunday began. The happy rooters of PSG erupted in cheers in the 30^th minutes of the first half as Nené scored an unassisted goal. The Brazilian native, who celebrated his 31^st birthday three days earlier, was PSG’s leading goal scorer during the league season. The fleet midfielder scored 21 of his team’s 75 goals.

PSG registered 7 of the 12 shots on goal during the first half, but none from either side was close to a score.

In the early minutes of the second half, both teams made many substitutions. As Di Matteo explained to reporters, “For us, it’s [each match in the U.S.] is preparation for our season.”

As the match neared its conclusion, in the 82^nd minute, two Brazilians combined to tie the match. Ramires passed to Lucas Piazon who booted in Chelsea’s first goal. The match ended in a 1-1 tie.

Although neither side achieved a victory, the crowd of 38,202 knowledgeable and enthusiastic soccer fans demonstrated their enjoyment of the contest. 

After the contest, Di Matteo stated, “It was a great atmosphere. I think the folks enjoyed themselves.” Of the overwhelming support from the fans for Chelsea, the manager commented, “I want to thank all the fans; it was like a home game.”

Di Matteo gave his opinion about the venue, Yankee Stadium, “It’s the first time I’ve been here. It’s very impressive. It’s a piece of art. The pitch was better than we expected.”

As soon as the match concluded, many soccer aficionados in the crowd were already preparing for their attendance at the next match in the Stadium on August 8 when AC Milan will face Real Madrid.

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Cops Step Up Security after ‘Dark Knight’ Massacre...

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Cops Step Up Security after ‘Dark Knight’ Massacre...: Concern Over Copycats Leads to Beefed up Security By Dan Gesslein BRONX, NEW YORK, July 20- In the wake of the Colorado Massac...

Cops Step Up Security after ‘Dark Knight’ Massacre

Concern Over Copycats Leads to Beefed up Security

By Dan Gesslein

BRONX, NEW YORK, July 20- In the wake of the Colorado Massacre during the showing of “The Dark Knight Rises,” the NYPD is stepping up security at movie theaters throughout the city.

"As a precaution against copycats and to raise the comfort levels among movie patrons in the wake of the horrendous shooting in Colorado, the New York City Police Department is providing coverage at theaters where the 'The Dark Knight Rises' is playing in the five boroughs," said Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly.

Police in Colorado arrested 24-year-old James Holmes in the shooting which so far has left 12 people dead and 38 wounded. The youngest victim, an infant, is expected to recover. According to published reports, the gunman, clad in a gas mask and body armor, stormed the movie theater at North Aurora. The gunman entered through an emergency door and set off a smoke bomb. When the theater goers attempted to exit the gunman opened fire. 

“I, along with all 1.4 million residents of the Bronx, would like to extend our most heartfelt condolences to the victims of last night’s deadly movie theater shooting in Aurora, Colorado. It is absolutely shocking that someone would look to hurt hard working individuals who wanted to do nothing more than relax and watch a movie with friends and family. 

“I and the residents of the Bronx will keep the victims of this devastating event, as well as the entire state of Colorado, in our prayers,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

This is not the first time violence has been linked to a Batman movie. During the showing of the 1989 Tim Burton film “Batman” an argument on line for popcorn at the Whitestone Cineplex led to the fatal shooting. Seventeen years later Ricardo Jimenez was arrested for the shooting. He is serving 22 years to life for the crime.

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Tough Guy Charged with Mugging Women

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Tough Guy Charged with Mugging Women: Thug beat mother in front of her child BRONX, NEW YORK, July 19- District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced the arrest an...

Tough Guy Charged with Mugging Women

Thug beat mother in front of her child

BRONX, NEW YORK, July 19- District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced the arrest and indictment of a 32-year-old Bronx man in connection with a series of four armed robberies of young women within a two-week period at the end of May and beginning of June 2012. The last of the victims was cornered and beaten as she held the hand of her three year old daughter.

Pedro Gomez, of University Avenue, was arraigned before State Supreme Court Justice Margaret Clancy after being returned to the Bronx Wednesday night following his arrest in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Gomez, who waived extradition, was ordered held without bail.

The grand jury indicted Gomez on three counts of robbery in the first degree, four counts of robbery in the third degree, six counts of grand larceny in the fourth degree, four counts of petit larceny, two counts of criminal possession of stolen property in the fourth degree, four counts of criminal possession of stolen property in the fifth degree, three counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree, three counts of menacing in the second degree, endangering the welfare of a child, and one count of attempted assault in the third degree. The most serious charge, robbery in the first degree, a Class B felony offense, is punishable by a maximum sentence of up to 25 years imprisonment on each count.

The charges in this indictment are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The string of robberies in this case began on May 25, 2012 at approximately 9:30 p.m. when Gomez allegedly followed a 19-year-old woman into an apartment building on Grand Avenue and accosted her on a third floor landing. Gomez is accused of placing a sharp object against the woman’s chest and ordered her to turn over her money. He allegedly fled with $4.

The next day, on May 26, 2012 at approximately 1:20 in the afternoon, Gomez allegedly followed a 27-year-old woman into a building on University Avenue and ordered her to remove an ankle bracelet and earrings. It is alleged that Gomez demanded the valuables after placing a sharp object on the victim’s stomach.

The third incident occurred on June 2, 2012 at about 3:15 in the afternoon in an elevator in a building on Jerome Avenue. The defendant was already on the elevator when a 32-year-old woman got on. When the elevator stopped on the third floor, Gomez allegedly grabbed the woman from behind as she was exiting and placed a sharp object on her neck before fleeing with her purse which contained approximately $1,500 in cash.

A week later on June 9, 2012 Gomez allegedly robbed a 25-year-old mother who was on an elevator with her three-year-old daughter. The incident occurred shortly before noon in a building on Sheridan Avenue. When the victim attempted to leave the elevator, Gomez allegedly pushed her back inside, hit her, and covered her mouth with his hand. He allegedly grabbed her purse and ripped a gold necklace off her neck before fleeing.

Detectives retrieved a security video recording of the last incident which the NYPD released to the news media. As a result police received information which led investigators to a location in Philadelphia where the defendant was arrested.

Assistant District Attorney Debra Guarnieri of the Trial Division is prosecuting the case.