A gymnasium for PS 226?

PS 226, an elementary school on Sedgwick Avenue in University Heights, is raising money to build a gymnasium.

So far, the school's held several fund-raisers – including a celebrity golf tournament in Los Angeles – and pulled in about $1 million, which includes a $500,000 commitment from Bronx Council Member Maria Baez.

Robert Romano, a teacher at the school who's leading the effort, has a famous brother: actor Ray Romano of "Everyone Loves Raymond" fame - hence the celebrity involvement.

To help attract additional donors - they need another $2-3 million - the school recently had a video made (above). In it teachers, parents, and others (including Baez) explain how the facility, if built, will benefit the school's 450 students.

More here.

(The video is courtesy of Crazy Duck Productions)

Health Fair at PS 226 and the School's Plans for a Gym

PS 226, an elementary school on Sedgwick Avenue in University Heights, held its first health fair today, with the aim of encouraging healthy minds and bodies among students, parents, and the wider community.

Representatives from Morris Heights Health Center, Jacobi Medical Center, and others, gave out information on asthma, nutrition, childhood obesity, adult and childhood literacy, parenting, and more. The Hunts Point Farmers Market provided free fruit. The New York Road Runners Club organized relay races for energetic kids.

The fair, which was organized by PS 226 health teacher Robert Romano, was held in the school's playground, where, teachers hope, a gymnasium - something the school lacks - will one day stand. So far they've raised $300,000, most of which was gathered at a celebrity golf tournament in Los Angeles. Actor Don Cheadle was among those who played. How did the school get Hollywood bigshots involved? Well, Romano's got connections: his older brother is Ray Romano of "Everyone Loves Raymond" fame.

Still, there could be a long road ahead. The gym - which will double up as a community center for the whole neighborhood to enjoy - is going to cost more than $3 million. It's sad, said Romano, that many students who are excited about the plans will likely have moved on by the time it gets built. (Photo by James Fergusson)