Press releases from the Office of the Bronx Borough President
The contents of this page have not been generated by the Bronx
County Chapter of NYSSPE. We are passing on information from others
as a public service, but do not accept responsibility for the accuracy of any
statements. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Bronx
County Chapter.
Jump to Items of
General or Community Interest
Items Affecting the Technical or Engineering Community
March 18, 2004
Contact: Eldin Villafane (718) 590-3541/ (917) 513-50977529
Anne Fenton (917) 513-0761
(718) 590-3543
BRONX BOROUGH PRESIDENT Adolfo CARRION UNVEILS WATERFRONT
INITIATIVE
Plan will focus on resources and uses of 75 miles of Bronx
shoreline
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion along with members of
his Waterfront Task Force will for the first time release the Bronx Waterfront
Plan, a comprehensive project to reclaim and develop the borough’s waterfront
by supporting its natural resources and uses. The Waterfront Plan will enhance
the borough’s economy through job creation and development while protecting
the Bronx’s natural resources. It includes the development of the Harlem
River, Hunts Point, The Bronx River, East River, Long Island Sound, Hudson River
and Port Morris waterfront communities.
The Borough President, who is attending the 3rd Annual Water
Meeting sponsored by the Bronx Council on Environmental Quality on Thursday,
will extend an invitation to those at the event to join him for the unveiling of
his Waterfront Plan.
DATE: Friday, March 19th , 2004
TIME: 1:00 PM
WHERE: The Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation
198 East 161st Street - Suite 201
Bronx, NY
March 17, 2004
Eldin Villafane (718) 590-3541 – (917) 513-5097
MEDIA ADVISORY Anne Fenton (917) 513-0761
Arlene Mukoko (718) 537-3386
CARRIÓN ADDRESSES 3RD ANNUAL BRONX COUNCIL ON ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY WATER CONFERENCE
Harlem River Project 2004: a Collaborative Approach to Urban
River Management
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión, who released his
Waterfront Task Force report that explores uses and provides recommendations for
the mile and miles of Bronx waterfront property, has been invited to the 3rd
Annual Bronx Council on Environmental Quality Water Conference: Harlem River
Project 2004 to present his vision for Harlem River. He will release his entire
Bronx Waterfront Plan later this week.
A city planner by profession, Carrión has long participated
in planning for the Harlem River waterfront beginning as a city planner with the
Department of City Planning, District Manager of Community Board 5, City Council
Member representing the 14th Councilmatic District and as Borough President of
the Bronx.
WHEN: Thursday, March 18
3:30PM – 4:00 PM
WHERE: Manhattan College, Leo Engineering Building
3825 Corlear Avenue, north of 238th Street
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Eldin L. Villafane - (646)
228-0766/(718) 590-3543
STATEMENT BY BRONX BOROUGH PRESIDENT ADOLFO CARRION JR.
Re: The Council's Vote To Pass Intro. 101-A, Lead Paint Bill
I congratulate all the City Council Members who voted in favor
of this critical legislation that will both reduce lead paint poisoning and
improve the housing stock in the City. This has been a long time coming. From
the beginning - from the time when I sat on the City Council and voted for the
original lead paint bill with the hopes of laying the groundwork for a stronger
measure to today's historical moment - this legislation has gone through an
odyssey of sorts. But in the end, the City Council and City advocates reached
the end of the road and finally agreed that protecting our City's children is
paramount. I applaud the Council's leadership and I hope the Mayor will now
stand and support this bill.
MEDIA ADVISORY: December 17, 2003 Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718)
537-3386
3:15 P.M. TODAY!! CARRION REACTS TO RECENT COLD
WEATHER-RELATED DEATHS IN THE BRONX "NO ONE SHOULD BE WITHOUT HEAT AND GAS
PARTICULARLY NOW WITH TEMPERTURES DIPPING BELOW THE FREEZING MARK"
DATE: WEDNESDAY, DEC. 17TH 2003 TIME: 3:15 P.M. LOCATION: 98
WEST 183RD STREET
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión called the recent
deaths of Bienvenido Baez, a 54-year-old livery cab driver from the Bronx who
reportedly was living without heat since Thanksgiving, and last month's tragedy
that left three people including an infant dead after they inhaled carbon
monoxide poisoning from a generator they used to stay warm - both tragedies that
could have been avoided. He's calling on Bronx residents and all New Yorkers
without gas or heat to reach out for help.
Carrion will join local leaders on Wednesday, December 17th at
3:15 p.m. outside 98 West 183rd Street in the University Heights section to call
on Con Edison, the City Housing Preservation and Development, the Human
Resources Administration and other city agencies that intervene on behalf of
tenants without gas to heat their homes or apartments, to be vigilant and
responsive when helping individuals and families in need of heat.
Carrion said, "I am angered that from Thanksgiving Day
and three weeks thereafter, that in a city where a vast number of resources are
available to address gas turn-offs, this building was without heat during some
of the coldest temperature yet since the start of fall. This is unacceptable.
"The family of Mr. Baez, the residents of this building
that we also forced to suffer under these conditions, and the entire Bronx
community, deserve an answer on how this could have happened."
According to reports, tenants had had to sleep with hats and
gloves and resort to purchasing space heaters to stay warm. Baez, who was
asthmatic, apparently complained to family members that the cold weather didn't
help his condition"
Carrión said, "There is help out there. Whether it means
reaching out the City Housing Preservation and Development to make a complaint
or the city's Home Energy Assistance Program that helps Con Edison customers
unable to pay their heating bills."
"The holiday season should be a time a joy as we
celebrate with friends and loved ones. Let's do everything we can to stay safe
and be healthy."
Items of General or Community Interest
March 23, 2004
Contact: Anne Fenton (917) 513-0761
(718) 590-3543
Free Tax Preparation Day for Bronx Residents
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión, Jr. and ARIVA have teamed up for a
one-day free tax preparation service for Bronx residents who are senior
citizens, low-income or disabled. Tax preparers from ARIVA and the Retired and
Senior Volunteer Program are trained and certified by the IRS. They will help
applicants benefit from the Earned Income Tax Credit, if they qualify, a benefit
many residents fail to take advantage of.
To have their taxes prepared for free, residents should bring
their W2 and/or 1099 statements, last year’s income tax returns and other
relevant information. There will also be light refreshments. To RSVP, call
(718)590-3522.
DATE: Friday, March 26, 2004
TIME: 10 am – 4 pm
LOCATION: Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation
198 E. 161 Street, 2nd floor conference room
March 23, 2004
Contact: Anne Fenton (917) 513-0761
(718) 590-3543
For Immediate Release:
BRONX BOROUGH PRESIDENT CARRION CELEBRATED WOMEN’S HISTORY
MONTH
Bronx Borough President Adolfo and The New York Botanical
Garden joined mistress of ceremony Cheryl Simone of 1010 Wins, keynote speaker
Kimberly Osorio, Editor In and Chief of Source magazine and representatives from
sponsors, Con Edison and JP Morgan to celebrate Women’s History Month at the
New York Botanical Garden on Wednesday, March 23, 2004.
In recognition of their contributions, Carrión honored the
following community leaders – Sister Mary Beth Read, Principal, Academy of
Mount Saint Ursula; Wendy Rodriguez, Chairperson, Bronx Community Planning Board
6; Hope Harley, Director, Verizon - Community Affairs for the Bronx, Verizon;
Anne Paulle, Executive Director of the Jewish Board of Family and Children’s
Services’ Bronx Domestic Violence Program Action Network; Michelle Centeno,
Field Representative, Dormitory Authority for the State of New York - at the
Office of Opportunities Program and Jane Folloro, Producer, Bronx Talk Prime
Time and of Bronx Talk AM. Musical selections were provided by the Bronx Arts
Ensemble.
MEDIA ADVISORY: March 5, 2004
Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718) 537-3386
NYPD'S YOUNG EXPLORERS PRESENT OVER 90 PHONES TO CARRION TO
HELP VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Carrion, who spearheaded a major public awareness campaign on domestic violence,
will also be presented with a HopeLine Hero Award from Verizon Wireless
In recognition of Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión's
work in supporting the HopeLine program and victims of domestic violence in the
Bronx, Charles Hand, President of Verizon Wireless' NY Metro Region, will
present him with a HopeLine Hero Award. In addition, students from the NYPD
School Safety Explorers, led by Agent Barbara Welch of the NYPD's School Safety
Division, will present over 90 phones to the HopeLine program that they began
collecting in December.
DATE: Thursday, March 25th, 2004
TIME: 11:00 a.m.
LOCATION: Office of the Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión
851 Grand Concourse, Rm. 301
READ THE BRONX BOROUGH PRESIDENT'S
STATE OF THE BOROUGH ADDRESS
For Immediate Release: February 24, 2004
Contact: Eldin Villafañe
(917) 513-5097
BRONX BOROUGH PRESIDENT ADOLFO CARRIÓN, JR. LAUNCHES
THE BRONX AT WORK CAMPAIGN
Carrión to City and State Leaders: "Confront the truth about New York
City's economy…help create jobs for all City residents."
When: Thursday, February 26, 2004
12:00 PM
Where: Evander Childs High School
800 Gunhill Road (Bet. Bronxwood and Barnes Avenues)
Bronx, New York
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión, Jr. will call on
Mayor Bloomberg, George Pataki and Washington to immediately address New York
City's staggering and growing unemployment rate with an increased emphasis on
creating jobs for all City residents at his 3rd State of the Borough Address.
With the jobless rate in the Borough of the Bronx reaching its
highest level in nearly a decade, Carrión will unveil an aggressive campaign to
boost the Bronx economy. The Bronx At Work initiative will focus on job
preparation and placement for Bronx residents by providing individuals with
specialized training programs and resources.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 23, 2004
Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718) 537-3386
CARRION APPEALS TO FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO GRANT DOMINICAN BORN
PFC. LUIS MORENO U.S. CITIZENSHIP ON EVE OF DOMINICAN HERITAGE MONTH EVENT
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión, Jr., on behalf of the
family of Pfc. Luis Moreno, reached out to Eduardo Aguirre the Director of the
United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, urging them to grant the
19-year-old Taft High School graduate U.S. citizenship. Pfc. Moreno, who was
shot down while guarding a gas station in Baghdad, was born in the Dominican
Republic. Since his death, family members have requested that Moreno be granted
his citizenship, posthumously.
Carrion wrote, "Though Pfc. Moreno is no longer with us
to express his heartfelt desire to become an American citizen, I am joined by
thousands of Bronx residents who support his family's request to see Dominican
born Pfc. Moreno posthumously granted U.S. citizenship.
Carrión continued, "He came to this country as many
before, and after him have -- with a desire to become fully American. Graduating
from Taft High School in the Bronx, he joined the military and hoped to become a
New York City police officer. That dream was cut short while he served in a
country far from his native country and far from his adopted home."
The request comes one day before the borough's annual
Dominican Heritage Month event scheduled for Tuesday, February 24th at 4:00 p.m.
where members of Moreno's family have been invited for a special tribute.
Carrion wrote, "We will recognize the family of Pfc.
Moreno and hope that at that time we can share any information from your agency
on the citizenship status of their son, Pfc. Luis Moreno, who paid the ultimate
price for our freedom."
MEDIA ADVISORY: February 26, 2004 Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718)
537-3386
CARRION DELIVERS STATE OF THE BOROUGH ADDRESS Focuses on job
creation and development in the Bronx
DATE: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26TH, 2004
TIME: 12:00 NOON
LOCATION: EVANDER CHILDS HIGH SCHOOL 800 GUNHILL ROAD BRONX,
NEW YORK
RSVP: 718-590-2645
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión, Jr. will present his
3rd State of the Borough Address with a focus on job creation. For
accommodations in accordance with Americans with Disabilities Act, please call
(718-590-3500-voice or 718-590-7096 (TDD).
MEDIA ADVISORY: February 11, 2004 Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718)
537-3386
CARRION AND DOMINICAN DAY PARADE COMMITTEE CELEBRATE DOMINICAN
HERITAGE MONTH BY HONORING PROMINENT DOMINICAN AMERICANS IN NEW YORK
INCLUDES SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO PFC. LUIS MORENO FROM THE BRONX
WHO DIED FROM A GUNSHOT WOUND TO THE HEAD WHILE GUARDING A GAS STATION IN BAGDAD
DATE: February 24, 2004 TIME: 4:00 P.M. LOCATION: BRONX COUNTY
BUILDING ROTUNDA 851 GRAND CONCOURSE (AT 161ST ST.)
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión welcomed all New
Yorkers to attend a special ceremony giving tribute to the life of Pfc. Luis
Moreno. Carrión said, "This borough must never forget the sacrifice that
this young man made. Moreno, who was not even an American, so believed in our
country and what it stands for, that he was willing to put his life on the line
so that we could continue to enjoy our freedoms."
He continued, "Born in the Dominican Republic, Moreno
came to the United States with a hunger to become fully American. He graduated
from Taft High School and joined the military and one day hoped to become a New
York City Police Officer. That dream was cut short while he served in a land far
from his homeland and far from the land he one day hoped would become his
home."
Recession Seen as Gentler for New York City's Outer Boroughs
By ANDY NEWMAN
Published: February 6, 2004 New York Times
New York City's outer boroughs weathered the recent recession
better than Manhattan, losing proportionately fewer jobs and seeing
private-sector wages increase while Manhattan's payroll declined, according to
figures released by the state's chief financial officer.
Total wages paid by private employers in the Bronx, Brooklyn,
Queens and Staten Island increased by 6.1 percent from 2000 to 2002, even as
they fell in Manhattan by 7.1 percent, according to the figures, which were
issued by the state comptroller's office yesterday with a report on the city's
economy. While Manhattan lost more than half the jobs created there during the
1990's, Queens lost only 20 percent of such jobs from 2000 to 2002 and Brooklyn
lost only 5 percent.
The loss of jobs outside Manhattan, however, was offset by
salary increases in the jobs that remained, the study showed. At the same time,
the other boroughs saw an increase in the number of jobs with a neighborhood
focus, like service, administrative and health care jobs, even as they lost
employment in manufacturing and air transport.
The outer boroughs' relative strength and stability reflect
the peculiar effect of the recession on New York City. Conventional wisdom holds
that when the economy sinks, blue-collar neighborhoods are hit the hardest. This
recession, which particularly clobbered the finance and high-tech sectors, had a
disproportionate effect on Manhattan, a national center of those industries. The
other boroughs could not miss what they never had.
The boroughs outside Manhattan even showed stronger growth
than the generally sprawling and affluent suburban counties around the city. In
Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, Orange and Putnam Counties, wages grew
by 3.3 percent from 2000 to 2002, according to State Department of Labor
statistics, about half as fast as in the outer boroughs.
The report focused in particular on Brooklyn, which the
comptroller, Alan G. Hevesi, said was insulated from the contraction that
occurred elsewhere in the city after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Manhattan,
with its financial base near the World Trade Center, and Queens, with an
export-oriented economy around two airports, suffered the largest economic
damage after the attacks and lost the most jobs.
"The news is pretty good,'' Mr. Hevesi said at a
breakfast at Long Island University in Brooklyn yesterday. "It's not great,
but considering the three years we've had, it's pretty good.''
In fact, in a case of the Brooklyn tortoise outpacing the
Manhattan hare, from 1998 to 2002, private-sector wages in Brooklyn, adjusted
for inflation, increased by 7.8 percent, the fastest growth in the city.
None of which is to say that the outer boroughs have rendered
Manhattan an economic also-ran. From the start of the boom in 1995 through 2002,
total wages paid in Manhattan jumped by 51 percent while those in the other
boroughs increased only 32 percent. Manhattan employers now pay nearly four
times the total wages of employers in the other four boroughs combined.
According to the report, based largely on State Department of
Labor figures, the boroughs outside Manhattan lost 1 percent of their
private-sector jobs from 2000 to 2002. Moreover, the average salary in the
sectors that lost the most jobs was about $38,400, while the average salary in
the fastest-growing sectors was only $29,800. But, due primarily to salary
increases, total private-sector wages in the outer boroughs grew from $35.8
billion in 2000 to $38 billion in 2002, an increase of 6.1 percent.
Total wages in Manhattan dropped both because it lost 7.1
percent of its private-sector jobs, and because the salary difference between
jobs that disappeared and jobs that were created was much greater than in the
other boroughs. The average salary in the sectors that lost the most jobs in
Manhattan was $85,500, while in the fastest-growing sectors it was $59,300.
As in the rest of the country, the economies of the other
boroughs have shifted from manufacturing toward service. In Brooklyn, for
example, the fastest growing job categories were social assistance and nursing
and residential care, the latter reflecting, among other things, the graying of
Brooklyn's established middle class.
For example, Sunrise Assisted Living, a company based in
Virginia that runs high-priced housing for the elderly, has opened centers in
Mill Basin and Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, since 2000. Employment at clothing
stores and hardware stores has also grown, reflecting the expansion into urban
markets of big national chains like Home Depot, which now has four stores in
Brooklyn, said Kenneth Adams, president of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce.
That growth, Mr. Adams said, is likely to continue.
"Brooklyn still is under-retailed,'' he said. "There's still pent-up
consumer demand, and retail is going to continue to add jobs.''
One of the more surprising findings to emerge from the state
labor figures was that the Bronx, widely seen as the city's most economically
backward borough, actually showed the strongest growth in recent years.
Total private-sector wages paid in the Bronx grew by 8.2
percent from 2000 to 2002, the most in the city. Nearly 3 percent of all
private-sector wages paid in the Bronx went to members of the New York Yankees.
But even setting aside the team's payroll, which jumped to about $171 million
from $107 million during that period, Bronx wages still grew by 7.3 percent.
Not only that, but the Bronx was the only borough where
private-sector employment actually increased during the height of the economic
downturn.
The Bronx borough president, Adolfo Carrión Jr., attributed
the growth to the expansion of several colleges in recent years, including the
College of New Rochelle and Mercy College. Other fast-growing sectors in the
Bronx included health care, which Mr. Carrión called the borough's leading
employer, and restaurants and bars.
The Bronx is even seeing growth in fields that it does not
want. Waste management companies added 480 jobs in the Bronx from 2000 to 2002,
at an average salary of $47,000.
"That one we're not happy with,'' Mr. Carrión said.
"We want those people to work somewhere else.''
MEDIA ADVISORY: February 5, 2004 Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718)
537-3386
OVER 200 EXPECTED!!!
CARRION HEARS FROM OLINVILLE HOMEOWNERS ANGERED OVER PLANS
UNDERWAY TO BRING 6 APARTMENT BUILDINGS TO THIS QUIET RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY
DATE: February 5, 2003
TIME: 7:00 P.M.
LOCATION: Immaculate Conception School School Hall (Entrance
on Capuchin Way) 760 East Gunhill Rd.
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión will hear grievances
from the residential and business community in the Olinville section of the
Bronx, upset over a construction project that threatens to undermine the
character of their neighborhood. On the request of Carrión, the New York City
Department of City Planning, the Department of Building and the developer,
Ryan's Bronx Express are expected.
STATE OF NEW YORK
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER
GEORGE E. PATAKI, GOVERNOR
Press Office
518-474-8418
212-681-4640
http://www.state.ny.us
FOR
RELEASE:
IMMEDIATE,
Thursday
January 29, 2004
GOVERNOR MARKS OPENING OF CARMELO ACOSTA PLAZA
State-Funded Affordable Housing for Families in South Bronx
Governor George E. Pataki today joined community leaders in the South Bronx to
celebrate the opening of Carmelo Acosta Plaza, a 63-unit affordable housing
development for single-parent households and homeless families developed by the
Neighborhood Association for Intercultural Affairs (NAICA) with $2.9 million in
State funding.
Carmelo Acosta Plaza received $1.8 million from the State Housing Trust Fund, as
well as an allocation through the LIHC program worth nearly $8.9 million for the
$11.4 million development.
“Today we celebrate a story of hope and a triumph of vision,” Governor
Pataki said. “Through our Housing Trust Fund and our State-supervised
Federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program (LIHC), the State of New York has
partnered with NAICA to make the dream of Carmelo Acosta Plaza a reality.”
Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg said, “Along
with our partners at the state and federal level, this Administration is laying
the groundwork for the plan to create and preserve more than 65,000 homes and
apartments citywide over the next five years. We're the world's second home, and
we need housing to help the City generate jobs and investment. We need good
homes in safe and stable neighborhoods for a new generation of ambitious and
hard-working New Yorkers such as the new residents of Carmelo Acosta Plaza.
Housing is fundamental to the City's long-term economic prosperity and it has
been a pleasure to collaborate with the New York State Housing Trust Fund on
this project to create affordable housing on city-owned land.”
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión said, “The Bronx continues to set the
standard for housing revitalization in New York. I thank Governor Pataki,
Commissioner Calogero, Eduardo LaGuerre and all other partners who collaborated
in the realization of this project. I look forward to together duplicating
similar initiatives throughout our borough.”
-more-
Senator Olga Mendez said, “I am most grateful to Governor Pataki because
through my relationship with him, we were able to help develop this 63 unit
affordable housing development for the people in my senatorial district who need
it so badly. It is events like this that reassure me that I have made the
correct decision in becoming a Republican because it has enabled me to give back
to the constituents who give me my job.”
NAICA Executive Director Eduardo LaGuerre
said, "We are grateful for our partnership with Governor Pataki and the
State of New York. Their help means a new beginning for the families of
Carmelo Acosta Plaza."
State Division of Housing & Community Renewal Commissioner Judith A.
Calogero said, “Under Governor Pataki’s leadership, through public/private
partnerships, our State has invested over $7.5 billion in affordable housing,
providing 152,000 new affordable housing opportunities for some of our neediest
New Yorkers. Through partnerships with such fine organizations as NAICA,
our State will continue to build on this record of achievement.”
Carmelo Acosta Plaza includes 42
two-bedroom and 21 three-bedroom units. The apartments are affordable to
households with incomes below 50 percent of area median income. The
two-bedroom units will have gross rents (rent plus utilities) set at $367 (5
units), $487 (5 units), and $607 (31 units). The three-bedroom units will
have gross rents set at $417 (5 units), $557 (5 units), and $692 (11 units). One
two-bedroom unit will be a rent-free super’s unit. In addition, 10 of
the units will be targeted to homeless families.
Funding for the 63 rental units was
approved under the State Housing Trust Fund and the Federal LIHC program.
The Housing Trust Fund provides State funding to help construct new housing, to
rehabilitate vacant or under-utilized residential property, and to convert
vacant non-residential property to residential use.
The Federal LIHC Program was established to
promote private-sector investment in the development and retention of rental
housing for low-income seniors, families and individuals. The program provides a
dollar-for-dollar reduction in federal income tax liability for project owners
in direct relation to the number of affordable housing units they produce.
Office: 212-681-4561 mobile: 917-359-5181
ADVISORY: Pataki and Carrión Inaugurate New Housing
Development in The Bronx Governor George E. Pataki, Borough President Adolfo
Carrión and DHCR Commisioner Judith Calogero, will community leaders in the
South Bronx to celebrate the opening of Carmelo Acosta Plaza, a 63-unit
affordable housing development for single-parent households and homeless
families developed by the Neighborhood Association for Intercultural Affairs
(NAICA).
WHEN: Thursday, January 29, 2004 9:30 a.m.
WHERE: Carmelo Acosta Plaza 35 East Clarke Place at Walton
Avenue Bronx, NY
MEDIA
ADVISORY:
January 27, 2004
Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718) 537-3386
You are cordially invited to attend
The State of the Borough Address of
Hon. Adolfo Carrion, Jr.
Thursday, February 26, 2004
12 Noon
Evander Childs High School
800 East Gunhill Road
Bronx, NY
RSVP: 718-590-2645
For accomodations in accordance with Americans with Disabilities Act, please
call
(718-590-3500-voice or 718-590-7096 (TDD).
Arlene Mukoko
Deputy Press Secretary
Office of the Bronx Borough President
851 Grand Concurse
Bronx, New York
(718) 537-3386
(917) 513-7529
MEDIA ADVISORY: January 26, 2004 Contact: Sandra Genaro,
Program Director (212) 684-3611 / Sandra@dressforsuccess.org
www.dressforsuccess.org
DRESS FOR SUCCESS NEW YORK ANNOUNCES GRAND OPENING OF NEW
BRONX BRANCH Dress for Success helping low-income Bronx women transition from
unemployment to self-sufficiency
(New York, NY, January 26, 2004) - Dress for Success New York
is proud to announce the grand opening of its newest branch located in the Bronx
with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, February 11, 2004 at: Davidson
Community Center 2038 Davidson Avenue, Lower Level 11:00 a.m. - 12 noon
About Dress for Success:
Dress for Success is an international not-for-profit
organization that assists low-income women transitioning from unemployment to
self-sufficiency. Since being founded in 1996, Dress for Success has expanded to
79 affiliates throughout the U.S. Canada, Great Britain and New Zealand. Women
are referred by a diverse group of non-profit organizations, including social
services agencies, domestic violence shelters and employment training programs.
For more information about Dress for Success, visit www.dressforsuccess.org
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dress for Success is a registered trademark owned by Dress for Success
Worldwide.
MEDIA
ADVISORY:
January 23, 2004
Contact: Mary Bostic at (212) 247-0490
Arlene Mukoko (718) 537-3386
REVEREND
FRED SHUTTLESWORTH
WHO LAUNCHED THE FIGHT TO END JIM CROW SEGREGATION IN BIRMINGHAM ALABAMA IN 1955
IS A SPECIAL SPEAKER AT CENTRAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN MANHATTAN ON TUESDAY
NIGHT
Reverend Shuttlesworth leading the Birmingham campaign with Reverend Martin
Luther King, Jr. and Reverend Ralph Abernathy.
DATE: JANUARY 27TH, 2004
TIME: 7:00 p.m.- 8:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Central Presbyterian Church
593 Park Ave. at 64th Street
National Civil Rights leader, Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth, who successfully
defeated attempts by Birmingham police chief Bull Conner to keep Birmingham's
schools, workplaces, parks and public facilities segregated, is a special
speaker at Central Presbyterian Church in Manhattan on January 27th at 7:00
p.m. Shuttlesworth is participating in a course titled, "The Civil
Rights Movement in Birmingham, Alabama in 1963," taught by Reverend C.
Herbert Oliver, who also partnered with him in Birmingham to fight segregation
in the 1950's and early 1960's. Central Presbyterian Church is located at
64th Street and Park Avenue. Admission is free.
Described by Martin Luther King as "one of the nation's most courageous
freedom fighters," Reverend Shuttlesworth will share his personal story
that includes repeated attempts to murder or maim him and his family.
Responsible for organizing the historic battles of Birmingham in May 1963 that
broke the back of segregation throughout the South, Shuttlesworth placed Martin
Luther King and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) in the
national spotlight.
The course, which began in January, is taught every Tuesday and continues
through February 10th. The class spotlights the political, religious and racial
landscape of Birmingham in 1963 and looks at why segregation continued despite a
new federal law banning it. The major role media played in seeing the system end
will also be discussed.
Admission is free. For more information, call Mary Bostic at (212)
247-0490
Carrion
puts heat on fat
Urges Bronxites to eat healthier
By CHRISENA COLEMAN
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER
Marty Markowitz put Brooklyn on a diet once upon a time, and now Adolfo Carrion
is doing the same to Bronxites who are a little too fat.Yesterday, the Bronx
Borough President launched the Healthy Bronx Campaign with an assist from local
health groups after city statistics showed Bronx residents have the highest
rates of obesity, asthma and diabetes in town.
"This is a historic day in the sense that we are each taking a stand to
acknowledge that a health crisis exists in the Bronx," said Carrion.
"We make clear our pledge to serve and enhance the lives of the residents
by attacking it head-on."
This boroughwide initiative is designed to address the health status of Bronx
residents by fostering partnerships between health care providers, health
advocacy groups, community organizations, academic and business communities,
local government and borough residents.
Dr. Jane Bedell, medical director of the Bronx district public health office,
called the Healthy Bronx Campaign timely.
"I'm pleased that Carrión is taking such an aggressive role in addressing
these critical health statistics and pledge our support toward increasing
collaborative efforts," said Bedell.
The Bronx fared the worst among the five boroughs by most health measures, and
the borough has some of the highest rates or incidences of obesity, diabetes,
asthma, tobacco use, HIV/AIDS, cancer and teen pregnancy.
Carrion's get-healthy campaign fell on deaf ears yesterday at the Concourse
Plaza Food Court on 161st St. where hundreds of Bronxites gulped down fried
chicken, hero sandwiches, tacos, burgers, fries, pizza and ice cream.
"It sounds good, but I'm hungry," said Ava Reyes, who snacked on
Kentucky Fried Chicken. "We all need to watch our weight and monitor our
health, but we live busy lives and fast foods are a quick fix."
"I'll start tomorrow," said Harvey Henderson, while eating a burger
and fries. "I could lose a few pounds myself. The borough president has the
right idea, but it's going to be hard to get us to break our poor eating
habits."
At a Subway shop, weight-conscious Bronxites waited in line to order healthy
low-carb and low-fat sandwiches. They didn't need the borough president to
remind them of their extra pounds.
"I've already started my diet," said Sandra Knight, who recently
joined an aerobics class. "You are what you eat, and I want to be healthy.
I'm happy the borough president is spreading the word."
The organizations participating in the project include the Department of Health
and Mental Hygiene, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronxnet, CUNY Athletic
Conference, The North Bronx Healthcare Network, Lincoln Medical and Mental
Health, The Bronx Health Link, American Cancer Society, New York Blood Center,
the Bronx district attorney's office and the Bronx HIV Care Network.
Originally published on January 22, 2004
MEDIA ADVISORY: January 21, 2004 Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718)
537-3386
MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT ON CAMPAIGN TO ADDRESS THE ADVERSE STATE OF
HEALTH OF MANY BRONX RESIDENTS CARRION LAUNCHES HEALTHY BRONX CAMPAIGN AND
ANNOUNCES PARTNERS CITY STATS SHOW BRONX RESIDENTS HAVE HIGHEST RATES OF
OBESITY, ASTHMA AND DIABETES
DATE: TODAY!!! Wednesday, January 21, 2004
TIME: 12:30 P.M.
LOCATION: Bronx Borough President's Office 198 East 161st
Street - 2nd Fl. Conf. Room
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión will launch The
Healthy Bronx Campaign, a project that seeks to comprehensively address the
health status of Bronx residents by facilitating partnerships between health
care providers, health advocacy groups, community organizations, academic and
business communities, local government and borough residents. The Bronx fared
worse among five boroughs by most health measures and the borough currently has
some of the highest rates/incidences of obesity, diabetes, asthma, tobacco use,
HIV/AIDS, cancer and teen pregnancy.
The organizations participating in the project include The
North Bronx Healthcare Network, The Bronx Health Link, CUNYAC Athletic
Conference, Montefiore Medical Center, American Cancer Society, New York Blood
Center, NYC Department of Mental Hygiene.
Carrión said, "I would like to thank all the
organizations joined here today participating in this effort. This is a historic
day in the sense that we are each taking a stand to acknowledge that a health
crisis exists in the Bronx and to make clear our pledge to serve and enhance the
lives of the residents by attacking it head-on."
MEDIA ADVISORY: January 20, 2004 Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718)
537-3386
"SHAPE UP NY" PROGRAM KICK-OFF/PRESS EVENT Shape Up
NY comes on the heels of City Health Department Stats showing the Bronx fared
worse of all 5 boroughs in asthma, diabetes and obesity
DATE: Tuesday, JANUARY 20TH
TIME: 6:00 P.M.
LOCATION: ST. MARY'S PARK RECREATION CENTER-GYMNASIUM ST.
ANN'S AVE. & E. 145TH STREET
Carrion invites Bronx residents to a free family fitness
program intended to encourage families to be active and healthy and focus on
nutrition and exercise. The program, which is co-sponsored by the Office of the
Bronx Borough President, NYC Parks and Recreation, Asphalt Green, NYC Department
of Education, Health and Hospitals Corporation, and the NYC Department of Mental
Health & Hygiene, is currently being run out of two Bronx locations which
are St. Mary's Park Recreation Center on St. Anns Ave. and E. 145th Street and
John Mullaly Park Recreation Center at 210 East 164th Street (Jerome Ave.)
Adolfo Carrión, Jr. Eldin L. Villafañe Bronx Borough
President Communications Director TEL: 718.590-3541 FAX: 718.590-0079
MEDIA ADVISORY: January 15, 2004 Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718)
537-3386
CARRION RESPONDS TO HEAT COMPLAINTS IN THE BRONX CALLS FOR
EMERGENCY HEATING CENTERS AS TEMPERATURE DIP TO SUB-ZERO
TODAY!!! 3:00 P.M.
LOCATION: Bronx County Building 851 Grand Concourse, Room 301
Bronx, New York 10451
In a press availability, Bronx Borough President Adolfo
Carrión, Jr. today will provide the main categories of complaints his office
has received from tenants living in apartments without heat.
Carrion will highlight complaints involving tenants in private
buildings with no heat, tenants in private buildings with sporadic heat, and the
fact that many tenants in NYCHA- managed apartments are without heat.
Carrion will call on HPD to immediately provide fuel, repairs
and call on the city to open emergency heating centers. He will call on NYCHA to
immediately provide heat and hot water to developers and urge them to rent
portable boilers if needed.
Since the number to the Office of the Bronx Borough President
has been featured, over 70 calls have come in. Many from residents who have call
311 repeatedly, but have not been provided with heat in their apartments.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 13, 2004
Contact: Eldin Villafane (917) 513-5097 / (718) 590-3541
CARRION URGES BRONX TENANTS WITHOUT HEAT TO REACH OUT TO CITY
FOR HELP AS TEMPERATURES DIP WAY BELOW FREEZING MARK
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión, concerned about
recent reports on Bronx buildings without heat with tenants resorting to
dangerous and unhealthy measures to stay warm, urged them to instead reach out
to the New York City Housing Preservation & Development, call 311, or call
Office of the Bronx Borough President for help.
Carrión said, "I want the public to know that there is
help out there no matter what their situation may be. Based on recent reports on
the amount of people suffering in apartments without heat, I'm concerned that
potentially life-saving information is not reaching everyone."
Carrion urged the NYC Housing Preservation & Development
(HPD) to quickly send out city mechanics to fix faulty boilers and bail out
tenants in buildings with faulty boilers that have not been repaired by
landlords. Tenants and building owners seeking more information about HPD may
call the agency's general information line at (212) 863-8000 for the following:
· Emergency repairs. · The delivery of emergency fuel to buildings where
landlords have failed to realize how much fuel is needed to get through the
winter. · Low interest loans for landlords so they can upgrade their heating
systems. · Enforce and issue summons to landlords that are already in
non-compliance with city laws.
Con Edison customers with no gas or electricity should call
Con Ed to inform them of any hardship in bill paying to avoid cutoffs. Con Ed
will also refer those in need to federal aid programs that will resolve their
balance and get tehir heat restored.
Carrión asked Bronx tenants without heat to first notify the
building owner, managing agent or superintendent. If heat is not restored, call
the City's Citizen Service Center at 311. For further assistance or any
questions, please call the Office of the Bronx Borough President (718) 590-3554.
MEDIA ADVISORY: January 2, 2003
Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718) 537-3386
CARRION ANNOUNCES TOWN HALL MEETING IN
CO-OP CITY
Monday, January 12, 2004
@ 6:30 PM
The Bartow Community Center, (Room 31)
2049 Bartow Avenue
Bronx Borough President Carrión and representatives from New York City and
State agencies will be on hand to listen to and answer a wide range of questions
on public safety, traffic safety, sanitation and other service delivery issues
that imapct the quality of life of resident in this community,
From the Jewish Week
Friday,
January 2, 2004 / 8 Tevet 5764
Editorials
(01/02/2004)
Improving Latino Ties
The Anti-Defamation League’s annual survey of anti-Semitism earlier this year
suggested that as many as 44 percent of foreign-born Latinos here may hold “strongly
anti-Semitic” attitudes. Among Latinos born in the United States, the number
falls to about 20 percent which, taking into account the margin of error, is
consistent with the overall percentage of Americans — 17 percent — likely to
hold negative opinions about Jews. The ADL sees the latter finding as
encouraging, since Latinos with access to educational opportunities, proximity
to Jewish communities and involvement with church groups are less likely to have
any use for anti-Semitism.
Still, the survey’s findings were distressing enough that the Bronx borough
president, Adolfo Carrion, recently announced an initiative to counter bias
against Jews in his own community. Carrion, who is of Puerto Rican descent,
plans to lead a delegation of Latino leaders, mostly clergy, to Israel in hopes
of creating ambassadors of goodwill. Seeing a direct link between negative media
images of Israel and anti-Semitism, Carrion says a firsthand look will help the
leaders spread better messages.
“In general, there is strong support for the State of Israel [among Latinos],”
Carrion told The Jewish Week. “But I don’t know if people really understand
that there is an avowed commitment on the part of many in the Arab world to
destroy Israel.”
Pilgrimages by politicians to Israel, while always welcome, are generally rich
mostly in symbolism. But Carrion’s trip also represents an effort at serious
bridge building with the nation’s fastest-growing minority community, and as
such should be congratulated and closely observed.
Originally published on January 2, 2004
Pol: Swastika scrawlers
deserve felony charges
By HUGH SON
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER
A Brooklyn assemblyman has proposed a law that would ban swastika vandalism
throughout the state, making it a felony punishable by up to four years in
prison.Assemblyman William Colton [D-Bensonhurst] said he was disturbed by the
outbreak of anti-Semitic scrawlings that surfaced in the city in the past year,
especially in Brooklyn's Jewish neighborhoods.
Vandalism involving the Nazi symbol is currently considered merely a form of
graffiti under the law - a misdemeanor with no jail time unless a hate crime can
be proven.
"We believe very strongly that the swastika is a hate symbol of such
historical significance it should be treated as a serious crime," Colton
told the Daily News. "It has to be treated differently than graffiti."
The new legislation would amend an existing law that makes it a felony to
vandalize religious property, adding swastika-drawing and cross-burning as
punishable felonies.
The bill will be assigned to a committee after Jan. 9 when the state Legislature
reconvenes, and could be enacted as soon as mid-March, Colton said.
First Amendment experts doubt the bill will make it that far, however. New York
Civil Liberties Union Executive Director Donna Lieberman said the Colton bill
likely won't pass constitutional muster.
"When it comes to expression, laws have to be content-neutral,"
Lieberman said. "If a swastika is painted on a subway train, the punishment
can't be greater than if a [graffiti] tagline is painted on that train."
Despite the bill's free speech implications, Colton is trying to build wide
support among leaders in the state Legislature.
Though most anti-Semitic incidents - including swastikas carved or painted on
homes and yeshivas, and tire slashings in Jewish neighborhoods - have been
reported in Brooklyn, swastikas also have appeared in Queens and the Bronx.
A spokesman for Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion said that anti-Semitic
vandalism in Riverdale and Morris Park convinced the beep to arrange a
bridge-building trip to Israel.
"We haven't seen the bill yet," said spokesman Eldin Villafane,
"but Carrion would want to support anything that helps stamp out
anti-Semitism in the city."
MEDIA ADVISORY: January 2, 2004
Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718) 537-3386
CARRION HOSTS ANNUAL INTERFAITH CEREMONY TO CELEBRATE THE LEGACY OF REVEREND DR.
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. AT TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH
DATE: MONDAY, JANUARY 19TH 2004
TIME: 10:00 A.M.
LOCATION: Trinity Baptist Church
808 East 224th Street (Bet. Barnes and Bronxwood Avenues)
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion will be joined by elected officials,
community and civic leaders for a special ceremony honoring the life of Reverend
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
To RSVP, call the Bronx Borough President's Office at (718) 590-2650.
Media Advisory: December 29, 2003
Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718) 537-3386
BRONX BOROUGH PRESIDENT'S
MAKING THE GRADE II
PARENT EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM
Currently, approximately 50% of students entering high school in the Bronx
graduate on time
LUNCH WILL BE SERVED!!!
DATE: Saturday, January 10, 2003
TIME: 10:00AM - 2:30 PM
WHERE: Lehman College, Music Building
250 Bedford Park Boulevard
Directions by subway: Take the 4 or D to Bedford Park Boulevard.
Walk 1-2 blocks west to entrance of Lehman College.
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión together with Lehman College and the
Citigroup College Bound Program of New Visions for Public Schools will welcome
parents, students, community and business leaders to this year's Making the
Grade II parent empowerment event on Saturday, January 10 from 10 a.m. to 2:30
p.m. at the Lehman College Music Building.
The latest figures from the Department of Education show that only about 50% of
students entering high school in the Bronx graduate on time. This year's Making
the Grade program will serve to provide information to students and families in
grades 6 through 12 on how to implement practices and strategies that will
ensure high school graduation.
Carrión, "If you're tired of hearing about the unusually high number of
children underperforming in our city's educational system, this meeting is for
you. I am making available the many resources that have not been widely
distributed by the very same people charged with ensuring that your kids make
the grade.
"The burden of our children's future success rests in our hands. If you're
a student, educator, parent or work with children, I urge you to take this
opportunity to find the program appropriate for you or the child under your
care. Together, let's look at the challenges our kids face and explore some
possible solutions."
This year's Making the Grade II; "Roadmap to Success" is the next in a
series of events meant to empower all Bronx residents by helping them create and
develop the conditions necessary for successful educational outcomes for
children.
Topics will include: No Child Left Behind; Parent Advocacy for Students; High
School Admission Process; Post-Secondary and other Career Options.
There is no fee for attendance. All residents of the Bronx are cordially invited
to attend. For more information please visit the Borough President's website at
www.bronxboropres.nyc.gov or call (718) 590 - 6034.
New Visions for Public Schools is the largest education reform organization
dedicated to improving the quality of education children receive in New York
City's public schools. Working with the public and private sectors, New Visions
develops programs and policies to energize teaching and learning, as well as
raise the level of student achievement.
Carrion's Chanukah Speech Announcing Trip to Israel w/
Hispanic/Afr- Am leaders
December 23, 2003 - Chanukah Celebration
Good afternoon, I would to like to welcome everyone here to the Bronx's Annual
Chanukah Celebration. Thank you for joining me.
In particular, I would like to thank Israeli Consul General Alon Pincus, Rabbi
Israel Greenberg, Executive Vice President of the Beth Jacob Beth Miriam School,
and Michael Miller, Executive Vice-President of the Jewish Community Relations
Council of New York. (Recognize others at this time) I'm glad to be here today
with all of you.
As a college student, I studied various world religions with great interest. For
Christians, Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Christ and is
symbolized by the kind of redemptive generosity that Jesus showed to all those
that he encountered. Differently, the holiday of Chanukah deals with redemption
that is achieved from great struggle of good over evil. During the Macabees'
successful struggle against the Greek Syrians, the miracle took place of the one
day supply of oil that instead burned for eight days. For the Macabees, evil was
symbolized by their oppressors.
In the Old Testament, we learn that nature does not make people evil. Rather,
evil takes place because people chose to ignore the crimes and sins that happen
around them. Take, for instance, the story of Sodom and Gomorrah. In this story,
all the men in Sodom try to break into Lot's home and assault his guests- two
boy angels sent from God. Afterwards, God destroys the cities of Sodom and
Gomorrah. The Old Testament poses the question of what could have happened in
these cities to permit such evil behavior to occur. The Old Testament answers,
surprisingly, that not everybody was evil. It explains that the residents of
these cities were apathetic and didn't pay attention to the plight of others. So
what happened? Evil was allowed to flourish. We could say that the residents of
Sodom and Gomorrah "fell asleep" in the face of evil.
What is the evil to be banished today? I believe it is the rise of
anti-Semitism. Just recently, Jewish neighborhoods in New York City have faced a
spate of anti-Semitic incidents, including dozens of tire slashings in Borough
Park, two synagogue desecrations and anti-Jewish graffiti around Brooklyn,
Queens and the Bronx. More specifically, a few weeks ago in Riverdale, a
building was painted with a swastika, and a kosher restaurant was defaced with a
reference to a Greek terrorist organization. Last week, in Morris Park, a
synagogue was also defaced.
The overarching question is, what to do now? What are some strategies to deal
with the groundswell of hate?
Recently, I met with Simona Frankel and Deborah Mordkowski, the Political
Advisor and Hispanic Affairs staff member for the Israeli Consulate in New York.
I explained to them that I had seen the latest survey done by the Anti-
Defamation League that found that many in the new wave of immigrants to New York
City do not understand the plight of Israel. I believe that to a great extent
this is a result of the way that Israel has been portrayed in the media. Not
everything in the media is anti-Semitic, but negative images of Israel go a long
way towards inflaming hatred of the Jews.
I believe that American Jewish leaders and Israelis are up against huge forces
and that ultimately they cannot fight this fight alone. I believe that we have
to make people understand that anti-Semitism is not a uniquely Jewish problem.
It's a cancer which left unchecked infects and ultimately kills democratic
societies. This battle requires working from the inside by finding sympathetic,
like-minded leaders willing to form an alliance for the greater good.
Today, I would like to announce my personal effort to raise awareness about
Israel and to reduce anti-Semitism. In collaboration with the Israeli Consul
General's office, I will next year lead a delegation of Hispanic and African-
American religious leaders from the Bronx for an educational mission to Israel
with the hope that those leaders can then return and educate their congregations
on the issues in Israel. The bottom line for this educational mission to Israel
will be: have we impacted the attitudes of these religious leaders? Have we
reversed any images and stereotypes that they may have held, prior to the trip?
If that's the measuring stick, then it will not be hard to say that the trip was
effective.
The message of Chanukah is as relevant today as it was two millenniums ago.
Chanukah represents the values of tolerance and religious freedom, respect and
understanding. Every year people celebrate the power of freedom over oppression
with the kindling of the menorah, symbolizing the victory of light over
darkness.
During Chanukah, Christmas, and New Year holidays, the City heats and get busy
with a lots of activity. Even with all this activity and distractions from the
real meaning of the holiday, there are many ways that you can connect with old
friends and family, give to a charitable cause, contemplate on the past year,
and commit to making ourselves and community better for the coming year. We have
to be grateful that we live in the world's greatest City, full of the most
interesting, challenging, and appealing people on earth. These are people who
can equally bring you happiness and let you down, but who refuse to stop being
out of the ordinary. As such, this is the greatest place to live up to the
ideal, the hopefulness and the miracle of Chanukah.
HAPPY CHANUKAH!!!
Thank you, and without further delay, I would like to invite Israeli Consul
General Alon Pincus to say a few words.
###
MEDIA
ADVISORY: December 22, 2003
Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718) 537-3386
CARRION
TO DELIVER SPECIAL CHANUKAH MESSAGE
WILL ANNOUNCE PLANS TO LEAD A DELEGATION OF HISPANIC LEADERS FROM THE BRONX
TO ISREAL TO RAISE AWARENESS AND REDUCE ANTI-SEMITISM IN IMMIGRANT COMMUNITIES
IN THE BRONX
DATE: Tuesday, December 23rd
TIME: 1:30 P.M. THROUGH 3:30 P.M.
LOCATION: Bronx County Building
Veterans' Memorial Hall
851 Grand Concourse @ 161st St.
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión, during his annual Chanukah celebration
message, will announce plans to lead a delegation of Hispanic religious leaders
from the Bronx for an educational mission to Israel with the hope that those
leaders can then return and educate their congregations on the issues in Israel.
The trip, planned in collaboration with the Israeli Consul General's office,
will address the attitudes towards Israel and negative images or stereotypes
that may have been created through the media.
Carrion said, "I would like to announce my personal effort to raise
awareness about Israel and to reduce anti-Semitism in the immigrant communities
of the Bronx."
Carrion will be joined by Israeli Consul General Alon Pincus, Rabbi Israel
Greenberg, Executive Vice-President of the Beth Jacob Beth Miriam School and
Rabbi Michael Miller, Executive Vice-President of the Jewish Community Relations
Council of New York. There will also be a dedication for the borough's new
official menorah. Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, is a celebration of the
victory of the Maccabees and the rededication of the Jerusalem Temple. It also
commemorates the miracle of the oil that burned for 8 days. The Beth Jacob Beth
Miriam School Choir will perform musical selections.
MEDIA ADVISORY: December 22, 2003
Contact: Arlene Mukoko (718) 537-3386
CARRION TO DELIVER SPECIAL CHANUKAH MESSAGE
WILL ANNOUNCE PLANS TO LEAD A DELEGATION OF HISPANIC LEADERS FROM THE BRONX TO
ISREAL TO RAISE AWARENESS AND REDUCE ANTI-SEMITISM IN IMMIGRANT COMMUNITIES IN
THE BRONX
DATE: Tuesday, December 23rd
TIME: 1:30 P.M. THROUGH 3:30 P.M.
LOCATION: Bronx County Building
Veterans' Memorial Hall
851 Grand Concourse @ 161st St.
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión, during his annual Chanukah celebration
message, will announce plans to lead a delegation of Hispanic religious leaders
from the Bronx for an educational mission to Israel with the hope that those
leaders can then return and educate their congregations on the issues in Israel.
The trip, planned in collaboration with the Israeli Consul General's office,
will address the attitudes towards Israel and negative images or stereotypes
that may have been created through the media.
Carrion said, "I would like to announce my personal effort to raise
awareness about Israel and to reduce anti-Semitism in the immigrant communities
of the Bronx."
Carrion will be joined by Israeli Consul General Alon Pincus, Rabbi Israel
Greenberg, Executive Vice-President of the Beth Jacob Beth Miriam School and
Rabbi Michael Miller, Executive Vice-President of the Jewish Community Relations
Council of New York. There will also be a dedication for the borough's new
official menorah. Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, is a celebration of the
victory of the Maccabees and the rededication of the Jerusalem Temple. It also
commemorates the miracle of the oil that burned for 8 days.
December 19, 2003
Photo with caption:
METRO NORTH EMPLOYEES AND RIDERS SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER IN THE BRONX
DONATE 700 TOYS FOR NEEDY BRONX KIDS
Metro North Railroad spread holiday cheer in the Bronx by donating 700 toys
collected from employees and commuters for Bronx children in need. Left to
right: Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion and Metro North employees, Ray
Rochford, Lowell Kavana, Joe Capozzoli and Ahmed Zoughy.
MEDIA ADVISORY: December 16, 2003
CARRION INVITES BRONXITES TO CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
AT 4:15 p.m. TOMORROW!!!
PHOTO-OP IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING: CARRION PLAYS SECRET SANTA TO
200 KIDS FROM THE BRONX THAT WROTE LETTERS FOR CHRISTMAS GIFTS
TIMES: 4:15 P.M. Performances begin. Location: Rotunda of the
Bx. County Bldg., 851 Grand Concourse (at 161st Street). HOT CHOCOLATE AND
COOKIES WILL BE SERVED. 5:30 P.M. - TREE LIGHTING - Carolers will sing in front
of 25-foot Blue Spruce tree. Location: 161ST Street and the Grand Concourse 6:00
P.M. - 200 KIDS GET SECRET SANTA GIFTS - Location: Rotunda, Bx. County Bldg.,
851 Grand Concourse (at 161st Street)
SING CAROLS, ENJOY PERFORMANCES AND FIND OUT HOW CHRISTMAS IS
CELEBRATED AROUND THE WORLD. Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión invites
Bronx residents to the Borough's official tree lighting ceremony to be held on
the Plaza of the Bronx County Building on the corner of 161st Street and the
Grand Concourse. A 25-foot Blue Spruce from upstate New York has been chosen for
the honors and can be seen at the northeast corner of the building waiting to be
covered in lights. Carolers will sing Christmas favorites and choirs from local
schools will perform special selections. Featured at the event will be The Celia
Cruz Bronx High School of Music Choir, Bronx poet Bobby Gonzalez who will talk
about how Christmas is celebrated around the world and a special visit from
Santa. Refreshments will be served.
Media Advisory: December 15, 2003 Contact: Arlene
Mukoko (718) 537-3386
CARRION INVITES NEW YORKERS TO CHRISTMAS TREE
LIGHTING CEREMONY SING CAROLS, ENJOY PERFORMANCES AND FIND OUT HOW CHRISTMAS IS
CELEBRATED AROUND THE WORLD
DATE: Wednesday, December 17th
TIME: 4:00 P.M. TO 7:00 P.M.
LOCATION: On the Plaza of the Bronx County Bldg.
(161ST St. and the Grand Concourse)
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión invites
Bronx residents to the borough's official tree lighting ceremony to be held on
the Plaza of the Bronx County Building on the corner of 161st Street and the
Grand Concourse. A 25-foot Blue Spruce from upstate New York has been chosen for
the honors and can be seen at the southeast corner of the building waiting to be
covered in lights while carolers sing Christmas favorites and choirs from local
schools perform special selections.
Featured at the event will be The Celia Cruz
Bronx High School of Music Choir, Bronx poet Bobby Gonzalez who will talk about
how Christmas is celebrated around the world and a special visit from Santa.
Refreshments will be served.
MEDIA
ADVISORY: December 15, 2003
Contact: Linda Loeb (718) 590- 6431
Arlene Mukoko (718) 537-3386
CARRION CELEBRATES CHANUKAH
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Dedicates New Menorah
DATE:
Tuesday, December 23rd
TIME: 1:30 P.M. THROUGH 3:30 P.M.
LOCATION: VETERANS MEMORIAL HALL
851 GRAND CONCOURSE
REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion joined by Israeli Consul General Alon
Pincus, Rabbi Israel Greenberg, Director of the Beth Jacob Beth Miriam School
and Rabbi Michael Miller, Executive Vice-President of the Jewish Community
Relations Council of New York will host the borough's Chanukah the Festival of
Lights celebration and dedicate a new menorah for the annual tradition at the
Bronx County Building's Veterans Memorial Hall. Chanukah, the Festival of
Lights, is a celebration of the victory of the Maccabees and the rededication of
the Jerusalem Temple. It also commemorates the miracle of the oil that burned
for 8 days. The Beth Jacob Beth Miriam School Choir will perform musical
selections.
During
Chanukah, gifts are exchanged and contributions made to the poor. On the first
evening, one candle is lighted on an eight-branched menorah candelabrum.
Beginning on the second night, one candle is added every night until the total
reaches eight on the last night.
