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Friday, July 30, 2010

Koch’s Enemies List

Ed Koch has an enemies list and almost every incumbent Bronx legislator is on it. The former mayor has founded NY Uprising, a group of former elected and appointed officials that is demanding incumbent and wannabe state legislators sign a pledge promising to support non-partisan independent redistricting, ethics reform and budgetary reform.

Those that sign on are deemed “heroes.” In the Bronx, only State Senators Pedro Espada and Jeff Klein are on that list, as are Espada challengers Gustavo Rivera and Fernando Tirado. (Daniel Padernacht, like most Bronx Dems, is on the group's enemies list).

We texted Bronx Democratic Party head Carl Heastie (he's well known for his texting preference) and asked why his team of Bronx Dems haven't signed on to the NY Uprising agenda. "Just didn't feel the necessity," he texted back. Asked to elaborate, Heastie said, "Koch has a right to lobby for his issues, but I don't feel compelled to respond to him."

Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz was less reserved. He said he agrees with almost all of the group’s agenda. But, he said, part of the pledge is agreeing to what the position of the Citizen’s Union, a good government group, is on redistricting (though this does not seem to be on the Web site). Making a pledge dependent on the position of an outside group, which could change in the future, doesn’t make sense, Dinowitz said.

Dinowitz also didn’t appreciate being lectured on ethics by Koch, who had close ties to scandal-plagued outer-borough political leaders during his tenure.

“Koch named Espada as a hero of reform,” Dinowitz said. “I think that speaks for itself.” 

To see who made which list, go to www.nyuprising.com.

Bronx News Roundup, July 30

Mayor Bloomberg agreed yesterday with the Bronx judge who ruled saggy pants legal, though not fashionable. "I am certainly not the style police," Bloomberg told the Post.

The Times reported this morning that, five months into the investigation of Governor Paterson's top aide abuse case, officials are still unclear about how much the governor knew about the abuse and when he knew it. A later article by the Times states that Paterson unlawfully leaked evidence in the case to witnesses. Read the full story here.

Waitresses at Bronx strip club Sin City filed a law suit charging that their managers routinely groped them, stole their tips and demanded sexual favors.

The National Weather Service is urging locals to be prepared for tornadoes such as the one that hit Riverdale earlier this week. The Service's top suggestions are to get inside, stay away from windows, and have an emergency kit.

Police have found suicide notes throughout the home of Micaela Jackson, who killed her son and herself in their Bronx home on Wednesday.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention gave the Bronx six awards worth about $350,000 to help pay for HIV/AIDS prevention programs geared toward young people and women. Get the details here.

Bronxites can now show their home pride on their feet with limited-edition Nikes specialized for each borough.

The Times highlighted some Bronx attractions in its own What's Going On? roundup this morning, see city-wide events here or check out our calendar.

Bronx native Jennifer Lopez is slated to replace Ellen DeGeneres on the next season of American Idol, according to billboard.com.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Bronx News Roundup, July 29

Bronx mom Micaela Jackson, 37, fatally shot her 12-year-old son and then killed herself in her Morris Heights home yesterday. Read the story here.

A Bronx judge threw out a summons issued against a Bronx local for wearing drooping pants that exposed his underwear.

Only traffic coming into the Bronx was allowed on the Throgs Neck Bridge this morning, when the bridge was closed due to an abandoned SUV. After police investigated, the bridge was declared safe and reopened.

Accused Bronx slumlord, Sam Suzuki, does not have to return to jail since he has been fired from managing the building at 1585 E. 172nd Street. Judge Jerald Kleinin of Bronx Housing Court ruled that he is not accountable for the repairs of a building that he does not own. The Daily News has the details.

The Time's City Room blog covered Governor David A. Paterson’s handling of a domestic violence case involving his aide this morning.

Producers Cool and Dre urged Fat Joe to draw inspiration from his Bronx roots while creating his newest album. Released two days ago, Darkside, Vol. 1, is already expected to debut on the Billboard 200.

Will Eisner's Bronx-based book, A Contract with God, is being made into a movie. The flick will give audiences a glimpse of a Bronx tenement in the 1930s.

The Gotham Gazette referenced PS 179 in the Bronx in its review of public schools this morning. In the article, Schools Matter cited that the proficiency in math of third grade students at the school dropped from 91 to 21 percent in one year.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

What's Going On?

Can you believe July is almost over? Here are some great, even zany, ways to end the month.


Editor's note: What did we miss? Send details to bronxnewsnetwork[at]gmail.com.
And be sure to check out our "What's Going On?" calendar throughout the week! 

Bronx News Roundup, July 28

The Daily News reports this morning that Bronx Democratic Committee chairman Jeff Dinowitz won't move to oust Pedro Espada, Jr. from the Democratic party before this fall's primary (state Democrats sent a letter to Dinowitz earlier this month, asking him to boot Espada). Dinowitz told the paper he might revisit the issue later (he told us in a previous interview that even if he went ahead with the motion, Espada could file an appeal, a process that would likely last much longer than the Sept 14 primary).

If you can stand the heat, the Bronx Zoo is offering discounts on certain tickets to online buyers. Zoo officials say this month's sweltering temperatures have led to a drop in attendance.

Authorities seized more than $1.5 million in cash yesterday in a huge heroin bust around the Fordham neighborhood. 

The Bronx is getting the least out of a city-wide program that places water fountains in public places, en effort to encourage residents to drink more H20 instead of sugary drinks. There's one set up every Tuesday outside Bronx Borough Hall, though other boroughs have gotten more fountains placed.

An Irish man visiting Katonah Avenue from his home in upstate New York is in a coma after he was assaulted outside of a bar. 

Two separate murders around the same intersection, within three days of one another, have one Morrisania neighborhood on edge. Troynisha Harris, an 18-year-old high school student, was stabbed to death early Saturday, and 22-year-old Fred White was found shot to death on Tuesday.

Con Edison has agreed to pay $700,000 to compensate for a 2009 explosion in Yonkers that leaked oil into the Bronx River.

Two comedians with roots in the Bronx are still in the running on NBC's reality show "Last Comic Standing."

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Bronx Elections: The Rundown

While there's been no shortage of talk about the candidates running in the 33rd State Senate District--the seat currently occupied by Pedro Espada, Jr.--we thought we'd provide a rundown of who's competing in myriad other local races.


Here's a synopsis of Bronx candidates who've filed petitions with the City and the State Board of Elections. These might not necessarily be the names you'll see on the ballot this fall, as a candidate's signatures petition can get thrown out for a number of reasons if it's challenged by an opponent. The deadline for challenging a candidate who filed was July 19, and the final primary ballot will be set August 9 after the signatures are reviewed.

The state's primary will be held on Sept. 14, while the general election will be Nov. 2. Not registered to vote yet? You have until Aug. 20 to register to vote in the primary, and until Oct. 8 for the general election. Visit this site or call 1-800-FOR-VOTE to have a registration form sent to you.

Read more after the jump to see our list.

National Night Out

Detective Warren Thompson, of the 46th Precinct, at last year's National Night Out event. Photo by Alma Watkins.

Next Tuesday, Aug. 3, is the NYPD's National Night Out Against Crime, an annual event organized by local precincts' community councils. They usually feature refreshments, music, entertainment and safety presentations from local officers. In addition to being an overall good time, the goal of the event is to strengthen neighborhood relations with the police and to heighten crime awareness.

Here are the details for a few local precincts--
  • 52nd Precinct: Poe Park, at East 192nd and the Grand Concourse, from 5 to 8 p.m. Contact community affairs at (718) 220-5824.
  • 48th Precinct: In Belmont's "Little Italy" on Arthur Avenue and East 187th Street, from  3 to 9 p.m. Contact community affairs at (718) 299-4522.
  • 46th Precinct: Echo Park, at Valentine and E. Burnside Avenues, from 4 to 9 p.m. Call the community council at (718) 220-5234 or Bernice Williams at (718) 933-6555.

BxNN Presents: The 33rd Senate District Candidates On the Issues (Part 6)

The Bronx News Network recently asked candidates in 33rd District senate race to answer, in writing, a number of questions which we hope will shed light on where they stand politically, their position on key issues in the community, and what they would do if elected.

Over the past several days we have posted their unedited answers on this blog, a few at a time. Last week, we published Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4. Yesterday, we published Part 5. Today, we will conclude our series with the candidates' views on independent redistricting and member items (discretionary funds intended for local nonprofit groups).

There are four candidates in the race - Pedro Espada, Jr. (the incumbent), Daniel Padernacht, Gustavo Rivera, and Fernando Tirado - which is turning into one of the most watched in the city. Padernacht, Rivera, and Tirado got back to us with answers, but Espada didn't. In an e-mail, a staffer of his wrote: "Thank you for the survey, however we will not be participating at this time. The Senator's positions will be made available via other media, including his website and Facebook, at a later date."

Part 6

QUESTION: Do you support an independent redistricting panel?

Bronx News Roundup, July 27

A new study of health violations at sports stadiums across the country found New York among the worst offenders. At Yankee Stadium this year, 48 percent of vendors were cited for unsanitary conditions.

The number of rapes in the Bronx is on the rise, while funding for rape crisis and counseling programs is being cut dramatically.

The tragic deaths of two teens who drowned in the Bronx River this month shouldn't keep residents from enjoying River Park, says Daily News columnist Patrice O'Shaughnessy, who called the park "one of the most beautiful places in the Bronx."

Assemblywoman Naomi Rivera is challenging the petitions of her primary challengers. This and more Bronx political gossip in Bob Kappstatter's weekly column.

A 23-year-old man was shot to death yesterday in Olinville, adding to what's been a rise in the number of homicides in the 47th Precinct. 

A group of women in the south Bronx say the process of applying for welfare is so discouraging that some opt to go without the assistance they need.

Percussion Group at Poe Park

Take the kids over to Poe Park this morning for a show by percussion group Mundos Ninos. It starts at 10:30 next to the park's bandstand, at East 192nd Street and the Grand Concourse. The show is one of several children's events sponsored by the CityParks Foundation.

National Weather Service: Tornado Hit the Bronx

For the first time in more than 30 years, a tornado hit the Bronx on Sunday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. The Riverdale Press reports that the eye of the storm centered around north Riverdale, but effects were felt throughout the north Bronx, including Williamsbridge Oval Park (pictured above) and Mosholu Parkway (pictured below), where police used a truck to push a tree off the road. If you know of any other downed trees causing problems in your neighborhood, send in photos and we'll follow up with city agencies.

Monday, July 26, 2010

WNYC to Feature the Bronx

On Tuesday, July 27, WNYC will feature the Bronx as part of Brian Lehrer's Census Project.  Between 11am - 12noon, Lehman College Professor WIlliam Bosworth, former borough president Fernando Ferrer, BronxTalk host Gary Axelbank, and Miquela Crator of Sustainable South Bronx will be discussing how the Bronx has changed over the past 10 years.  http://beta.wnyc.org/shows/bl/2010/jul/27/


The show can be heard on 820AM, 93.9FM, or streamed live at www.wnyc.org.

BxNN Presents: The 33rd Senate District Candidates On the Issues (Part 5)

The Bronx News Network recently asked candidates in 33rd District senate race to answer, in writing, a number of questions which we hope will shed light on where they stand politically, their position on key issues in the community, and what they would do if elected.

In the coming days we're going to post their unedited answers on this blog, a few at a time. Last week, we published Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4. Today, we are focusing on social issues and legislative reform. Tomorrow, we will conclude our series with the candidates' views on independent redistricting and member items (discretionary funds intended for local nonprofit groups).

There are four candidates in the race - Pedro Espada, Jr. (the incumbent), Daniel Padernacht, Gustavo Rivera, and Fernando Tirado - which is turning into one of the most watched in the city. Padernacht, Rivera, and Tirado got back to us with answers, but Espada didn't. In an e-mail, a staffer of his wrote: "Thank you for the survey, however we will not be participating at this time. The Senator's positions will be made available via other media, including his website and Facebook, at a later date."

Part 5

QUESTION: What’s your position on same-sex marriage? Abortion rights?

Bronx News Roundup, July 26

The so-called soda tax, which the Paterson administration estimates would add $815 million to the state's badly depleted coffers (and keep NYers healthier) will get another chance at passage in another special legislative session called for Wednesday to deal with the state budget, which is four months late. The measure hasn't fared well in either body of the legislature, but in a press release the Alliance for a Healthier New York says it's glad to see the proposal is "gaining serious momentum." In April, Montefiore Medical Center came out in favor of the tax and the Norwood News had this editorial.

Two barges carried the new Willis Avenue Bridge up the East River this morning

The Bronx community of Van Nest seeks some respect in a debate over a new school's name.

A quick but punishing storm took its toll on the borough yesterday. The Boogiedowner has a photo of some of the damage in Williamsbridge Oval Park.  

Watch BronxTalk tonight for discussion of the proposal to eliminate the Sheridan Expressway.

We'll have the 5th in a series of questions and answers for candidates in the 33rd Senate District up shortly.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Sheridan, Debates on BronxTalk


This Monday night, July 26, the Sheridan Expressway will be the topic of discussion on BronxTalk, the borough's flagship talk show.  Beginning at 9p on Bronxnet's channel 67, Jaime Rivera from For a Better Bronx and Julien Terrell of Youth Ministries of Peace and Justice will talk with host Gary Axelbank about whether think it ought to be removed.

Viewers can weigh in with their opinions by calling 718-960-7241 during the show.

On Monday August 2 we were to have a debate in the race for the 86th AD, but challenger Hector Ramirez declined the invitation to appear.  Therefore incumbent Nelson Castro will be the only guest.  (editorial comment:  is not strange that a challenger would turn down the opportunity to get on TV and face his opponent one-on-one?)

On Monday August 9 we will feature a debate in the race for the 76th AD between incumbent Peter Rivera and challenger Luis Sepulveda.

For more than fifteen years,  BronxTalk has been seen live each Monday night at 9:00pm on Bronxnet's Cablevision channel 67. It's also on Verizon Fios channel 33 and streamed live at bronxnet.org. Produced by Jane Folloro, BronxTalk is repeated each day at 9:30am, 3:30pm, and 9:00pm. Archives are available at blip.tv; search for "BronxTalk."

Friday, July 23, 2010

BxNN Presents: The 33rd Senate District Candidates On the Issues (Part 4)

Two weeks ago, the Bronx News Network asked candidates in 33rd District senate race to answer, in writing, a number of questions which we hope will shed light on where they stand politically, their position on key issues in the community, and what they would do if elected.

In the coming days we're going to post their unedited answers on this blog, a few at a time. Part 1 was published Tuesday. We published Part 2 Wednesday and Part 3 Thursday. Today, we are focusing on housing and crime issues. On Monday, we will center the debate on hot button social issues and on what legislative issues the candidates would prioritize if elected.

There are four candidates in the race - Pedro Espada, Jr. (the incumbent), Daniel Padernacht, Gustavo Rivera, and Fernando Tirado - which is turning into one of the most watched in the city. Padernacht, Rivera, and Tirado got back to us with answers, but Espada didn't. In an e-mail, a staffer of his wrote: "Thank you for the survey, however we will not be participating at this time. The Senator's positions will be made available via other media, including his website and Facebook, at a later date."

Part 4

QUESTION: What’s your position on vacancy decontrol? Any other housing legislation you would like to see moved in Albany?

Bronx News Roundup, July 23

Kenneth Clarke, 40, who worked for Con Edison, was gunned down Wednesday night in his home on Van Nest Ave. The Daily News has the story.

Crystal Reyes, one of the teens who drowned in the Bronx River on Sunday, was laid to rest yesterday morning. (Here's more on the tragedy, and its aftermath in the community).

The Times reports that only 53 people attended the Charter Revision Commission’s public session on Wednesday at Bronx Community College. The group's mission was to create proposals to put before the voters in November.

Ex-Bronx cop Juan Acosta was sentenced yesterday to 11 years in prison for aiding the distribution of cocaine and aiding the robbery a rival drug courier.

The Wall Street Journal reports today that Montefiore Medical Center, along with four other hospitals in Manhattan and Brooklyn, have agreed to a pilot program that seeks to cut medical malpractice costs. [You may need a subscription to access this story in the Wall Street Journal; another version of the article is available here.]

Following the rape of a 79-year-old Bronx woman on Monday, officials have put a $12,000 bounty on the offender's head yesterday. State Senator Pedro Espada,Jr. helped with the bill, adding $5,000 of his own money that was matched with $5,000 from the Federal Law Enforcement Foundation.

Robert Bella told indiewire.com that his well-received film, “Colin Fitz,” was largely shot in the Bronx's Woodlawn Cemetery. The film was shot on 35mm and was “in-the-can” for $150,000, he recalled.

Speaking of film, the UK's dailymail.com reviewed the flick "City Island," which was named after and filmed on Bronx turf, this morning.

In an article headlined "Ruben's No Pedro," the Albany Times-Union reports that Democratic conference leader John Sampson is co-hosting an August fundraiser for Ruben Diaz, Sr. next month in the Bronx, at Maestro's. Senior's son, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., is sharing the hosting duties with Sampson. 

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Espada's Town Hall Meeting Rescheduled

[Ed. note: this post has been updated from its original version.]

The town hall-style meeting at Church of the Mediator featuring State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr., which had drawn the attention of pro-tenant housing advocates who were planning to hold a protest outside of the meeting, has been rescheduled because of safety concerns, said Diego Delgado-Miller, the head pastor of the Kingsbridge area church.

A new date has not yet been determined, Delgado-Miller said.

When asked why the church had decided to reschedule the meeting, Delgado-Miller offered a short chuckle as if he was amused by all the attention the meeting was receiving. "We wanted to make sure it was more secure, more peaceful," he said. "We wanted people to feel safe."

Activists from the Real Rent Reform campaign, which includes several pro-tenant housing groups, including the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition and Housing Here and Now, had planned to protest outside of the church because the meeting was limited to an invite-only crowd and they wanted to highlight Espada's inaction on several key pieces of pro-tenant housing legislation.

Delgado-Miller said he had invited Espada to speak at his church, "Because I wanted to people to know him and what he is doing."

Michael McKee of Housing Here and Now also wanted people to know what Espada is doing, or not doing, as Chairman of the Senate's housing committee.  "He has bottled every single one of our housing bills in his housing committee," he said.

Earlier today, Espada's chief of staff, Alex Diaz, told the Daily News that they needed to limit the town hall participants to those who had registered because of space concerns.

McKee said it was because Espada only likes to participate in events that he can "tightly control" and where he can hand-pick the audience.

Espada just sent out an angry press release about the postponement. "The meeting will be rescheduled for those who registered to attend so their questions can be answered and their concerns addressed in the civil environment that was intended," he said in the release. [Update: these quotes were technically sent out in a joint statement by Espada and Diego-Miller.]

He went on to denounce the protesters as "political rabble-rousers" -- "the same people who are paid a small stipend and a food voucher to some cheap restaurant to appear at events to disrupt, spit on people, use obscene language, intimidate and push people around."

Indeed some of the protesters, including McKee (who said he was about to get on the 1-Train before learning of the cancellation) are from outside of the community, but many were from the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition, which is made up of local volunteer activists, most all of whom are from Espada's 33rd District.

McKee said it is actually Espada who buses in and pays people -- such as employees and patients of his Soundview health clinics -- to show up at his events.

Espada is running for re-election this fall. 

We'll have more on this later. Stay Tuned.

BxNN Presents: The 33rd Senate District Candidates On the Issues (Part 3)

Two weeks ago, the Bronx News Network asked candidates in 33rd District senate race to answer, in writing, a number of questions which we hope will shed light on where they stand politically, their position on key issues in the community, and what they would do if elected.

In the coming days we're going to post their unedited answers on this blog, a few at a time. Part 1 was published Tuesday. We published Part 2 yesterday. For Part 3, we asked them how they would balance the state budget as well as their position on sin taxes. Tomorrow, we will publish their answers to questions about addressing crime problems and housing policy.

There are four candidates in the race - Pedro Espada, Jr. (the incumbent), Daniel Padernacht, Gustavo Rivera, and Fernando Tirado - which is turning into one of the most watched in the city. Padernacht, Rivera, and Tirado got back to us with answers, but Espada didn't. In an e-mail, a staffer of his wrote: "Thank you for the survey, however we will not be participating at this time. The Senator's positions will be made available via other media, including his website and Facebook, at a later date."

Part 3

QUESTION: How do you think the state can balance the budget this year? What do you cut? How do you raise more revenue?

What's Going On?

As we near another warm weekend, here are some events to check out across the Bronx!


Editor's note: What did we miss? Send details to bronxnewsnetwork[at]gmail.com.


And don't forget to keep an eye on our "What's Going On?" calendar for the latest happenings.

Bronx News Roundup, July 22

Sherr-una Booker says she'll refile charges against David Johnson, the former top aide to Gov. Paterson. Booker filed a police report last fall saying Johnson assaulted her in their Bronx apartment, but the case was dismissed when she missed a court appearance the day after getting a phone call from the governor.

Sam Suzuki, the slumlord who got prison time for ignoring court orders to repair his crumbling apartment building on E. 172nd Street, was released from jail this week but could be sent back by the courts as early as next week.

Funeral services were held yesterday for the two teens who drowned in the Bronx River last weekend. (See here for more on the incident, and its aftermath in the community).

A kitten named Motz was rescued from a sewer by city workers yesterday in Morris Park.

A new documentary called "The Lottery," tracks students from the Bronx and Harlem as they compete for a seat at the very competitive Success Academy charter school in the Harlem (Success Academy will open two schools in the Bronx this fall).

Roses at the Bronx Botanical Garden are being bred to resist insects, meaning some of the plants will be pesticides-free. 

AM New York says rats are making nests in MTA metro card machines. That's not the only foul thing that maintenance workers have to deal with--they say riders use the machines as personal urinals (the article calls out several Bronx stops along the D among the worst offenders).

Construction could be finally in the works for a towering, long-unfinished apartment complex on Oxford Avenue.

Friends of the Oval Meeting- Thurs. July 22 at 7pm

Friends of the Oval, a volunteer group of community residents that advocate for services and projects to maintain and enhance the Williamsbridge Oval, is meeting the evening of Thursday, July 22 in the park. You'll find folks gathering at 7pm at one of the picnic tables in the picnic grove near the north side of the park (closer to E. Gun Hill Road). The group will discuss the successful request for portable toilets while the Recreation Center is under construction, devise strategies to cut down on litter, and consider how to ensure the renovation work is completed on schedule. Friends encourages attendees to bring their concerns and passion for our neighborhood park and join in the conversation. All are welcome.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Activsts Say Yankees Not Living Up to Their End of Agreement; Lawsuit May Follow


Yankee benefits rally from Alex Kratz on Vimeo.

“We are here because there is a disconnect between the world we live in of the South Bronx and the world of justice and equality,” said Lydia Lebron (see video above), pastor of the Resurrection United Methodist Church in the South Bronx, at a rally outside of Yankee Stadium last week.

Representatives from the For the South Bronx Coalition (4DSBXCoalition), the Urban Justice Center, and the Freedom Party joined Lebron in demanding data from the Yankees baseball club that accounts for commitments the club made in signing a Community Benefits Agreement in 2006. The activists presented their demands to Yankees President Randy Levine in a seven-page letter. (BxNN friend and stadium expert Neil deMause wrote about this last week for the Village Voice's blog.)

The Community Benefits Agreement, signed by Levine, former Borough President Adolfo Carrion, and Council members Maria Baez (who is no longer in office), Joel Rivera and Maria Del Carmen Arroyo in April 2006, said the Yankees would give 25% of stadium construction contracts to Bronx businesses, make sure 25% of construction jobs went to Bronxites, and award 25% of post-construction jobs to Bronxites.

As part of the agreement, the Yankees also created a Community Benefits Fund, controlled by a volunteer board, that would give out $800,000 a year in grants to local community groups, $100,000 a year in equipment and merchandise, and 15,000 free game tickets.While some of these grants, merchandise and tickets have been distributed, activists at the rally said much of it remains unaccounted for.

“The purpose of the money is to offset the cost of the stadium and the traffic and pollution surrounding it,” said Harvey Epstein, director of the Community Development Project at the Urban Justice Center. Epstein, along with the coalition, is interested in seeing the designated money go to “local social services, local parks, local food pantries, and other local community centers.”

The Yankees did not immediately return calls and e-mails seeking comment and the Benefits Fund could not be reached by publication of this article.

BxNN Presents: The 33rd Senate District Candidates On the Issues (Part 2)

Two weeks ago, the Bronx News Network asked candidates in 33rd District senate race to answer, in writing, a number of questions which we hope will shed light on where they stand politically, their position on key issues in the community, and what they would do if elected.

In the coming days we're going to post their unedited answers on this blog, a few at a time. Part 1 was published yesterday.

There are four candidates in the race - Pedro Espada, Jr. (the incumbent), Daniel Padernacht, Gustavo Rivera, and Fernando Tirado - which is turning into one of the most watched in the city. Padernacht, Rivera, and Tirado got back to us with answers, but Espada didn't. In an e-mail, a staffer of his wrote: "Thank you for the survey, however we will not be participating at this time. The Senator's positions will be made available via other media, including his website and Facebook, at a later date."

Part 2

QUESTION: If you were a member of the City Council last December, would you have voted for or against the Bloomberg administration’s proposal to turn the Kingsbridge Armory into a shopping mall? Do you support legislation in the Council right now that would mandate developers seeking city subsidies to require retail tenants to pay a living wage to their workers?

More Questions Raised About Espada's Petitioning Methods

UPDATE BELOW

Photobucket
Pedro Espada, Jr. outside the Bronx Board of Elections (Photo: Jeanmarie Evelly)

At a press conference outside the Bronx Board of Elections on July 12, State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. showed reporters a backpack containing, he said, the signatures of 10,000 registered voters in his west Bronx district. His message to the State Democratic Party and others who him ousted from the Democrat Party: back off, my constituents are behind me.

So how has Espada managed to drum up this level of support? Senate candidates need just a thousand signatures to get on the ballot. Presumably, even if many of Espada's are invalid, he'd still be left with an impressive number.

Could it be that he's more popular than his critics like to admit? Perhaps. But Espada and his campaign team also have also been accused (here and here) of bumping up their count by giving out free food in return for signatures. His spokesman denied the allegations. Recently we heard about another suspect signature-gathering technique, which went as follows:

On June 8 - which just so happened to be the first day of petitioning - Espada hosted his annual "Senior Appreciation Luncheon Day" at Eastwood Manor on Eastchester Road. The press weren't informed but according to two seniors we spoke with, local seniors received invites in the mail and senior centers in the 33rd Senate district were also contacted.

Eastwood Manor is in the East Bronx and so most of the seniors took advantage of the free ride Espada was offering. His office chartered a number of school buses - about 15 by one count - and they picked people up outside senior centers and at other locations.

Approximately 800 people turned out (Eastwood Manor is huge) and a nice time was had by all, the two seniors said. There was food and dancing and Espada gave a speech and handed out dozens of certificates to seniors who have made a difference in the community.

Bronx News Roundup, July 21

Veterans at the Bronx Veterans Affairs Hospital, in Kingsbridge, are learning to channel their post-war tension into music as volunteers teach them to play musical instruments.

Ruben Diaz Jr., ex-Yankees Roy White and Darryl Strawberry and Yankees scout Cesar Prescott, gathered to remember late team owner George Steinbrenner before a baseball tournament on Randall’s Island yesterday.

Don Coquí, an authentic Puerto Rican restaurant in New Rochelle, is celebrating its first anniversary this month. Its owner, Jimmy Rodríguez, is the founder of Jimmy's Bronx Cafe and the son of the founder of Marisco del Caribe in the Bronx.

The city Administration for Children's Services will fund Rosalie Hall, a center for pregnant teens, for another year. Although the number of beds must be reduced from 16 to 10, the funding may allow the center to provide birthing services and full-time residency for young mothers and their children.

Christopher Benfey, a professor at Mount Holyoke and contributor to the New York Review of Books, wrote about his experience attending “Emily Dickinson’s Garden: The Poetry of Flowers,” at the Botanical Garden on the New York Review of Books website this morning.

The Point, a community development organization in the South Bronx, which reclaimed vacant land in the city for a 400-square-foot garden, is setting an example for Detroit and other American cities. The Center for American Progress released an article about the benefits of urban farms today.

Bronx native Latisha Ryer, 35, was arrested on charges of possessing and selling crack cocaine in Port Jervis today.

The Daily News reported that teens jumped fences to swim in the Bronx River yesterday, in spite of the recent deaths in the area.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

BronxTalk - Dinowtiz and Debates

On BronxTalk this past Monday night Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz talked about the letter he received recommending that Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. be ousted from the Democratic Party, community board selections, the state budget, and other topics.  Watch the show here:  BronxTalk, July 19, 2010 - Assemblyman Dinowitz


Televised debates update:  
On August 9 we'll present a debate between the candidates in the primary for the 76th Assembly District.   Beginning at 9:00pm incumbent Peter Rivera will square off against challenger Luis Sepulveda.


Nelson Castro, the incumbent in the 86th Assembly District has accepted our invitation to debate on August 2, but challenger Hector Ramirez has yet to agree to it.    Stay tuned...


For more than fifteen years,  BronxTalk has been seen live each Monday night at 9:00pm on Bronxnet's Cablevision channel 67. It's also on Verizon Fios channel 33 and streamed live at bronxnet.org. Produced by Jane Folloro, BronxTalk is repeated each day at 9:30am, 3:30pm, and 9:00pm. Archives are available at blip.tv; search for "BronxTalk."

BxNN Presents: The 33rd Senate District Candidates On the Issues (Part 1)

Two weeks ago, the Bronx News Network asked candidates in 33rd District senate race to answer, in writing, a number of questions which we hope will shed light on where they stand politically, their position on key issues in the community, and what they would do if elected.

In the coming days we're going to post their unedited answers on this blog, a few at a time.

There are four candidates in the race - Pedro Espada, Jr. (the incumbent), Daniel Padernacht, Gustavo Rivera, and Fernando Tirado - which is turning into one of the most watched in the city. 

Padernacht, Rivera, and Tirado got back to us with answers, but Espada didn't. In an e-mail, a staffer of his wrote: "Thank you for the survey, however we will not be participating at this time. The Senator's positions will be made available via other media, including his website and Facebook, at a later date."

PART 1

QUESTION: Will you serve as a full-time legislator? If not, what other jobs will you also keep?

PADERNACHT: It is my plan to serve as a full-time Senator with an office in Albany, and two offices in the District. All the offices will be staffed by qualified and competent staff. I will continue to practice law as a solo practitioner though I will restrict my caseload to a handful of matters.
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RIVERA: I will gladly and willingly serve as a full-time legislator whether the law is changed or not. I have been a university professor for 11 years and a part time faculty member for last 6 years at Pace University. I would love to be able to continue to teach if I am elected, which is the only job I would consider keeping – but only if it doesn’t interfere with my legislative duties and is not deemed a conflict of interest.

PhotobucketTIRADO: Currently, I have no other plans other than to serve as a full-time legislator.







QUESTION: How would you describe yourself politically (e.g. liberal, conservative, etc.)? Name three political figures you admire. What books have you read recently?

PADERNACHT: Politically, I would describe myself as a reasonable progressive. Three political figures that I admire are Bill Clinton, John Kennedy, and Abraham Lincoln. I am currently reading Meditations by Marcus Aurelius.

RIVERA: I am a progressive. I believe we must address the basic issues: quality education, universal healthcare, pensions for retirees, unemployment, and regulation of business to protect hard-working families.

President Obama is a great example of a progressive elected official committed to serving his community and I was honored to play a key role in the 2008 presidential race, witnessing first-hand an incredible movement that inspired my generation. I also admire Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who is a Bronx heroine in every way and the best sort of role model anyone from the Bronx can have. Of course, the dedication and passion of Cesar Chavez is an inspiration to political organizers everywhere.

The three books I have read most recently are: The Power Broker by Robert Caro; Millenial Makeover: MySpace, YouTube, and the Future of American Politics by Morley Winograd and Michael D Hais; and Last Words by George Carlin.

TIRADO: I consider myself to be more closely associated with Conservative or Centrist Democrats / Blue Dog Democrats in ideology. I believe strongly in having an efficient government that practices transparency and does not turn a blind eye to wasteful or needless spending.

Thomas Jefferson, Luis Muñoz Marín, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

American Gospel, The Faiths of our Fathers, and Warrior of the Light.

Editor's note:  Tomorrow's post will include candidates' responses to questions about the Kingsbridge Armory and unemployment.

The 33rd Senate District covers much of the west Bronx (Graphic courtesy of the Senate's website)

Bronx News Roundup, July 20

A 15-year-old Bronx boy was shot and killed in a shooting Monday morning in Brooklyn.

In the wake of this weekend's drownings, the Times takes a closer look at the Bronx River and its re-emergence in the public eye in recent years.

The part of the river where the two teens drowned--near the Bronx Zoo, in West Farms--is a popular swimming spot, according to the Daily News.

Police are looking for a man who raped and assaulted a 79-year-old woman in the elevator of her Westchester Square apartment building. State Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr. is holding a press conference today at 1 p.m., at Benson Street and East Tremont Avenue, to rally for the community's involvement in catching the assailant, according to press release sent this morning.

Dan Cantor, Executive Director of the Working Families Party, writes that the best way to change Albany is to vote Pedro Espada out of office. His party has already endorsed challenger Gustavo Rivera.

The Daily News Bob Kappstatter has more on this race in his weekly column. We'll be posting more details on some of the candidates today, so check back here for updates.

Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter is the most marketable player in baseball, pulling in more money for sponsors than any other player, according to a recent survey. 

A gas station attendant came upon a five-foot long snake in Melrose. Police were called to catch the animal and take it to Animal Control. 

A blood drive and baseball game fundraiser are being planned for beloved Throgs Neck little league coach Joe O'Grady, who is battling cancer.

Speaking of noteworthy coaches: Bob Hawthorn, who coached men's tennis and squash at Fordham University for 54 years, retired yesterday.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Momentum Builds for Rivera as Pressure Mounts For Others to Drop Out

As the political stars appear to be aligning in support of Gustavo Rivera's bid to topple incumbent Pedro Espada, Jr. in the 33rd Senate District, fellow Espada challengers Daniel Padernacht and Fernando Tirado refused to go along with the program.

"Unless something dramatically changes by midnight, I'm staying in the race," Padernacht said.

Candidates have until midnight tonight to drop out of the race without their names appearing on the ballot. After that, if the candidates' petition signatures hold up -- they need the signatures of at least 1,000 unique registered Democratic voters -- then their names will be on the ballot.

Common political handicapping says more challengers will favor Espada in the primary. And Rivera is gaining momentum as the most politically and institutionally supported challenger.

He compiled the most signatures of any challenger -- 6,200, he says. He has the most political endorsements, including Councilman Oliver Koppell who announced his support earlier today in front the Amalgamated Houses. And he recently received backing from deep-pocketed, anti-Espada Democrat Bill Samuel's New Roosevelt Initiative as well the Working Families Party.

Padernacht said he's received numerous calls since Friday asking him to step down and let Rivera take on Espada one-on-one for the Democratic ticket.

Specifically, Padernacht says he's received pressure from SEIU 1199 (the healthcare workers union) and the office of Public Advocate (and former Councilman) Bill de Blasio, one of the city's rising Democratic stars. Neither SEIU or de Blasio's office could be reached for comment.

Bronx Public Pools; Community Leaders Demand Action; and Swimming Safety Tips

I was planning on posting this anyway, but it seems to have added importance now in light of the tragedy that claimed the lives of two teens in the Bronx River yesterday.

There are 10 public pools in the Bronx, (just click on "Bronx" tab if Bronx pools don't immediately show up) according to the Parks Department's Web site. On hot summer days they are crowded of course, and there are a lot of rules, but they are safe and fun. Yesterday I waited in line with my family for about half an hour in the late afternoon at the Van Cortlandt Park Pool and despite the heat and a long line everyone was patient. The large pool was crowded but hard to find a face among the hundreds without a smile on it. The wading pool was less crowded and lots of little kids and their parents were having a blast there, too.The pools have a number of programs including swimming classes for all ages, and free meal programs for those that qualify. I'm not sure about the other pools, but Van Cortlandt has lap swimming for adults in the early morning, from 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

In light of the Bronx River tragedy, Assemblyman Peter Rivera and Community Board 6 chair Ivine Galarza are calling on Police and Parks departments to better patrol the area where the teens drowned. Despite the "No Swimming" signs, it's long been a popular place for kids to swim in the summer heat.

“This is a high risk situation that should come as no surprise to the New York City Parks Department as they have been repeatedly notified in writing as to the safety issues and dangers of not having patrols in this area," Galarza said in a statement. "This community is still waiting for a formal reply and the necessary action to prevent another tragedy as we experienced yesterday.”

Meanwhile, St. Barnabas Hospital has released some tips for swimmers. We reprint it here in full after the jump. 

In Crotona Park, an African Parade and Festival

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Yesterday, the African People Alliance (APA), a Bronx-based organization, hosted its annual "Africa United Day" parade and festival in Crotona Park.

The APA was founded in 2007 with the of aim of bringing together Africans of all nationalities, and to provide services to the borough's growing African population.

Photo courtesy of the APA. For more photos of the event, visit this Facebook page.

In Fund-Raising Efforts, Espada Out in Front

Last week, state legislators running for reelection, and those challenging them, filed financial disclosure reports with the state's Board of Elections.  Those reports are now listed on the Board's website.  To see how much money a candidate has raised, click here and enter their name.

In the 33rd District senate race, the picture looks like this:

  • Pedro Espada Jr. (incumbent) has raised $81,775 since March, and a total of  $386,225 since the beginning of last year. 
  • Gustavo Rivera has raised $65,535
  • Daniel Padernacht, $19,405.   
  • Fernado Tirado, $2,335.
To see how much candidates have spent, click here and search by name.  (For Padernacht, search "Citizens for a Brighter New York.")

A few initial observations:

  • Espada, the chair of the senate's Housing Committee, received a glut of money from the real estate industry, which is only likely to fuel critics' arguments that he sides with landlords over tenants. He also received big bucks from several beverage companies, as have many state legislators who opposed Gov. David Paterson's "sugar tax."
  • Rivera received $6,000 from the union 1199 SEIU, whom he once worked for but has not yet officially been endorsed by. 
  • Tirado has spent all the money he's so far raised. 
  • Staples has been doing some good business these past few months. 
In the coming days, we'll try and delve a bit deeper - who gave what to whom, what this means, etc.  In the meantime, feel free to chime in with your own thoughts (no personal attacks please) in the comments section.

By the way, unlike in city races, candidates in state races don't receive matching funds, so what they raise is what they get.  Earlier this year, Paterson proposed overhauling this system in an effort to fight corruption.

Bronx News Roundup, July 19

We'll start the week off with the tragic story of the two Bronx teenagers -- Crystal Reyes, 15, of University Heights, and David Lee Luccioni III, 17, who was about to start his senior year at Grace Dodge High School -- who drowned yesterday in the Bronx River. (More from the Daily News, NY Post, NY1.)

According to city officials and news reports, Reyes was struggling after jumping into a fenced-off part of the river near the dam around 180th Street. Luccioni jumped in to save her. They both became entangled in tree branches below the surface. Both were taken to near-by St. Barnabas and pronounced dead on arrival at about 4 p.m. Despite the "No Swimming" signs, the spot is popular with young people looking to cool off. There were about 20 kids swimming in the area when Reyes began flailing and yelling for help and Luccioni went after her.

The Times has a more lighthearted summer river story about the local kids who jump off the cliffs in Spuyten Duyvil, much to the chagrin of the local MTA cops.

Speaking of the MTA, the budget-crunching agency is about to introduce a series of new cost-cutting measures, including jacking up prices on unlimited Metrocards and the creation of a "limited unlimited card" that would charge more for heavier users.

Two Riverdale synagogues that became targets in a failed bombing plot last year will receive federal grants to beef up their security.

Hundreds of city buildings, including 1694 Davidson Ave. in Morris Heights, are again deteriorating after being rescued decades ago. (The Davidson building is owned by Bronx Heights Neighborhood Community Corporation, a non-profit.  Back in 2008, tenants and board members began complaining about the way the organization was run and the affect this was having on the buildings.  Here's the story that appeared in the Mount Hope Monitor.)

A Bronx-born filmmaker is working on a documentary about New York accents.

More Endorsements for Espada Opponent Gustavo Rivera

UPDATE BELOW

PhotobucketThe influential and powerful Working Families Party is supporting Gustavo Rivera (pictured) in his effort to unseat State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr.

In a statement, Dan Cantor, the party's executive director, said:

Pedro Espada favors landlord interests over tenants every time. He cast our government into chaos for his own political gain. No Albany politician makes a better case for early retirement.

Gustavo Rivera is a reformer with the smarts, the leadership, and the heart to clean up Albany and stand up for the tens of thousands of tenants in the Bronx. Pedro Espada has bundles of landlord cash, but Gustavo will have a grassroots army and the support of a community that is sick and tired of the status quo.

We have helped progressive challengers before, but never has there been as much at stake for the people of New York.
The Times broke the story of the party's endorsement on Friday.

In more good news for Rivera's campaign, a "key Bronx elected official" has decided to support him, according to a press release from Rivera's campaign.  Rivera will announce who it is at a press conference outside Vladeck Hall, at the Amalgamated Houses, at 2 p.m. this afternoon.  The building's located at 74 Van Cortlandt Park South.

Rivera also has the backing of the New Roosevelt Initiative, and Council members Annabel Palma and Melissa Mark-Viverito, among others.

UPDATE 11 a.m.:  So we heard from Rivera's campaign.  The "key Bronx elected official" is Councilman Oliver Koppell.

The Yankees Unobstructed — July 19

The Yankees are in first place with just over 71 games to play, 17 of which are set to be played against the second place Tampa Bay Rays and third place Boston Red Sox (who trail New York by three and 6 1/2 games, respectively).


Here are some things to watch out for as baseball heads into its home stretch:

Nick Swisher: Since Swisher was announced as a candidate for the final spot on the American League All-Star team on July 4, he's hit .381 with a .435 OBP, 3 home runs, 8 runs scored and a walk-off game-winning hit. Swish showed us last year that when he gets hot he can carry an offense....unfortunately, we also learned last year that he can also go dead cold at the plate for long stretches of time.

As the #2 hitter, when Swisher's hitting well and getting on base, it creates opportunities for the Yankees' power front to see hittable pitches. If Swisher can carry his career-year through the second half, we could see the Yankees offense become even more potent. But, if his bat goes dead, it'll put extra pressure on Mark Teixeira and Álex Rodriguez, who have already had struggles this year.

Speaking of Mark Teixeira: It's no coincidence that he's suddenly become the Tex the Yankees paid for. Since July 4, the first baseman has been on a rampage. He's hit five home runs for 11 RBI (in 10 games!), while improving his average from .243 to .253, and his OBP from .352 to .363 (neither is by any means good, but improvement should be noted).

Derek Jeter: On June 1, the Captain's batting average was .307....it now stands at a very un-Jeter .271. During that period, he's hit .228 and at one point he went 19 games without an RBI. In the past, when Jeter has had slumps like this he's recovered in grand fashion, which is why he's never finished a season with an average below .291.

Those Starting Pitchers: Each month this season, one of the Yankee starters has gone through a terrible slump. But when four pitchers are rocking it, it doesn't matter much how the fifth guy is faring. However, things could start getting rocky soon. A.J. Burnett still can't quite figure out how to avoid devastating innings, and Andy Pettitte will be out for the next month or so with a strained groin. The pressure's going to be on C.C. Sabathia, Phil Hughes and Javier Vazquez to produce quality starts, so the bullpen doesn't get too strained.

Oh Yeah, the Bullpen: It's gonna be a fight (in a good way)! Joba Chamberlain's been inconsistent, while David Robertson's in recovery mode and Jonathan Albaladejo's been lighting up triple-A opponents of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees, and manager Joe Girardi has taken notice. He might just be trying to add extra motivation for Chamberlain to turn things around, but Girardi hinted this weekend that his role as primary setup man might be in jeopardy. Girardi told the Daily News:
"I'm not saying on a daily basis I am going to change our eighth-inning guy, but you have to earn your roles here," Girardi said. "And we evaluate on a daily basis."
Note: Make sure to check back every week for The Yankees, Unobstructed BxNN's Yankees opinion column.

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Dinowitz on BronxTalk



This Monday night on BronxTalk, the borough's flagship talk show, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz will answer questions from host Gary Axelbank about the attempt by the State democrats to oust Pedro Espada, Jr., community board appointments, the state budget, politics, and other topical issues.  Viewers can call  into the show at 718-960-7241.


This past week BronxTalk featured Bronx roads and bridges, the plan to create pedestrian plazas in Times Square and Herald Square, the affect of the Gulf oil spill on cars and travel, and other transportation issues. BronxTalk july 12, 2010 - Bronx Roads and Travel


For more than fifteen years,  BronxTalk has been seen live each Monday night at 9:00pm on Bronxnet's Cablevision channel 67. It's also on Verizon Fios channel 33 and streamed live at bronxnet.org. Produced by Jane Folloro, BronxTalk is repeated each day at 9:30am, 3:30pm, and 9:00pm. Archives are available at blip.tv; search for "BronxTalk."

Friday, July 16, 2010

Upcoming Bronx Events


Editor's note: What did we miss? Send details to bronxnewsnetwork[at]gmail.com.

Bronx News Roundup, July 16

Gregory Tsougranis, Bronx associate broker with Century 21 Metro Star believes the Bronx real estate market picking up (see second item in the "Closer" column. During his recent Bronx Trolley apartment hunt tour, he said he attracted more than 40 prospective buyers. Specifically, he said they were looking for one and two bedroom apartments starting at $145,000. The next tour is expected to be held on August 28.

Daily News columnist Juan Gonzalez writes about how the Bronx's Columbus High School faced the possibility of being closed down after Schools Chancellor Joel Klein labeled it as "failing." It's now staying after lawsuits were filed against the city. Columbus Special Education teacher Gail Drillings says, "I'm thrilled that our school is saved. And we're finally getting the extra resources we've needed."

Plus, if you haven't already, check out our two earlier stories on the body found at Harris Field and the murder of a man in Williamsbridge Oval Park.

Ed. note: An item in this post was removed due to an error. The item, regarding the Wildlife Conservation Society, was not Bronx-related

Murder in Oval Park

A local man was shot dead on Thursday evening inside of Williamsbridge Oval Park, apparently after a dispute involving an iPhone.

Police identified the victim as Diego Sinchi, a 28-year-old, Hispanic male, of 345 East 209th Street, which is just two blocks from the park. At about 10:30 p.m. last night, Sinchi was found shot multiple times in the torso. He was later pronounced dead on arrival at Montefiore Medical Center.

Blood from the shooting was still visible on Friday morning as family members lit candles at a makeshift vigil just inside the north entrance to the park, where the murder occurred.

Sinchi was allegedly involved in a dispute over an iPhone with an unidentified male just after dark last night. The apparent dispute, which became physical, ended in gunfire, according to Resso Santiago, a local resident who spoke to NYPD detectives that were investigating the murder earlier Friday morning.

"My son has an iPhone," said Santiago. "I don't want him to get killed over his phone. I can not feel safe with my family around here any longer."

As park crews began covering the bloody cobblestones with mulch in Oval Park Friday morning, family members had already began gathering around a vigil of candles and prayer cards.

As of Friday morning there have been no arrests made and a police investigation is ongoing.

[Update: According to Norwood News archives, Thursday night's murder was the first in Williamsbridge Oval Park since 2002, when a NYC bus driver was bludgeoned to death with a tree branch.]

Dead Body Found in Harris Field

First, it was an excess amount of lead in the soil. Now, it's dead bodies. (OK, technically, one body.)

Yesterday, workers at Harris Field in Bedford Park discovered a man's decomposing body. Parks Department officials, members of the NYPD's mobile crime scene unit and officials from the Office of the City's Medical Examiner were in the park, at Bedford Park Boulevard and Paul Avenue for most of the day on Thursday trying to figure out what happened.

The park, located between Lehman College and the Bronx High School of Science, has been undergoing a rehabilitation project for at least the last year and-a-half, but the project stalled last fall after contaminants were found in the dirt. The park has been closed off to the public because of the contamination and recently the Parks Department closed the park's inner gates because people were easily bypassing the weak chain-link fence surrounding the fields and continuing to use the park.

Investigators at this time believe the man was homeless and are investigating his identity and the cause of his death.

--Photo and Reporting by David Greene

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Morris Heights Resident Looks to Challenge Sen. Serrano

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Mark Escoffery-Bey owns and runs a copy store in Morrisania. "It's like Kinkos, but it’s not Kinkos," he says.

The native of Jamaica is also a film-maker and a karaoke host at Bronx bars and restaurants, although both have taken back seat in recent weeks because he's running against, or trying to run against, State Senator Jose M. Serrano.

The 46-year-old Morris Heights resident is, by his own admittance, a long-shot candidate. He has no endorsements and little money, but he feels he's collected enough petition signatures to at least get on the ballot, even if his signatures are challenged. (The deadline for filing is today.) That would be an improvement on the last time he ran for office in 2008, against Councilwoman Helen Foster.

"I made the ballot but then it was challenged and I was taken off," said Mark Escoffery-Bey (pictured above). “I take responsibily for that. I was new to the process and I didn’t know all the little nuances, so my signatures lacked integrity."

This time Escoffery-Bey, a married father of two, believes he has a chance of being elected. "Nothing ventured, nothing gained," he said during a telephone interview last week.

He added: “I am so against someone running without challengers... because it's an easy walk in and then they don’t feel like they need to do as much as they should, because it appears to be some kind of gift or right or something they are entitled to. It does not foster a healthy democratic process.”

Primary Petitions Due Today

Candidates vying for a spot on the primary ballot this fall have a deadline to meet today. Petitions, or voter signatures of support, have to be filed with the Board of Elections office by the end of the day.

Legislators and legislative hopefuls had the last five weeks to collect signatures--a daunting task, considering the signatures must be from voters registered with the candidate's respective party and who live in their district. Congressional candidates need 1,250 valid signatures, state Senate candidates need 1,000, and 500 are required for the state Assembly.

Here's a little update on how the candidates in the 33rd Senate race fared:

We already know that incumbent Pedro Espada's filed his petitions--he did it very publicly at a press conference at the Bronx Board of Elections office on Monday. He said he had 10,000 collected.

Fernando Tirado told us this morning that he's already filed over 1,000 signatures. He declined to give a specific count, but said he had enough to "cushion" the potential signatures that could get thrown out by the BOE.

Kingsbridge attorney Daniel Padernacht said he filed his on Monday and had more than 4,500 signatures.

Gustavo Rivera's count was 6,250, according to campaign advisor Elizabeth Lorris Ritter.

Speaking of Rivera: City Hall News reported this morning that Gustavo took a spill while exiting a bus on the Grand Concourse. Ritter confirmed as much, saying Rivera lost his footing last Wednesday, tripping down the bus stairs and landing face first on the sidewalk. He went to the emergency room at Montefiore to get patched up, she said, and is fine, with the exception of some bruises and "quite a shiner."

Mess of the Moment Update: Con Ed Cleans Up


We'll call it the "power of the Mess." In response to our "Mess of the Moment" blog post two weeks ago, Councilman Fernando Cabrera's office called Con Edison to ask the energy provider to take care of the eyesore, which is in his 14th Council District. On July 6, a week after the post appeared here on the blog, Con Edison responded by sending a crew to clean up the pile of barricades and cement blocks, which blocked parking spots in front of an apartment building and neighboring houses.

Before (above); After (below)

Editor's Note: The "Mess of the Moment" is a periodic feature on the blog. If there is a mess that you want highlighted or paid attention to, send photos of a location (or at least a locationa and description) to bronxnewsnetwork@gmail.com or just tell us about it in the comments section of this post.