Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Thompson Ends Senate Race, and
Democrats Hope of Majority in State Senate

   Current Democratic Senator Antoine M. Thompson officially conceded today to his Democrat turned Republican opponent Mark Grisanti. This now means that the Republicans have a 31 to 29 lead on Democrats in the State Senate with two seats left to finish recounting. It looks like the best case scenario for Democrats would be a 31-31 tie. In that case the tie breaking vote would come from newly elected Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy.
   In the Westchester race incumbent Suzy Oppenheimer should be able to stay ahead of her Republican opponent, while on Long Island incumbent Senator Craig Johnson trail Republican Jack Martins. Democratic hopes are that even if when all the votes are counted, that a recount of the paper ballots will give the win to Johnson. The hope could be that if voters filled in more than one circle on their ballot that there was a foul up in the machine as to alter the actual voter count, thus a full ballot hand recount would give Democrat Johnson the win.
Upcoming Events

1.- Bronx Annual Chanukah Menorah Lighting Ceremony
  Monday, December 6 ---      1:30 p.m.
  Bronx County Building 851 Grand Concourse 
  To RSVP, please call 718-590-3989
   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.  

2.- Bronx Annual Christmas  Tree Lighting    
  Wednesday, December 8 ---      5:00 p.m.
  Bronx County Building 851 Grand Concourse at 161st Street 
  To RSVP, please send an email to lroldan@bronxbp.nyc.gov  or call 718-590-3522 
    The Cardinal Spellman High School’s Gospel Choir will play traditional holiday songs. 

3.- A Taste of the Bronx Food Show   
  Sunday, December 12 ---    5:00 p.m.
  Lehman Center for the Performing Arts 
  Following the Handel’s Messiah concert, taking place at the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, the 5th Annual “A Taste of The Bronx” food show will feature some of The Bronx’s most popular eateries in one room for concert goers to enjoy. 
  They will be able to sample the cuisine of top Bronx restaurants, some of them celebrated by restaurant critics and featured in dining guides like Zagat and Michelin.
  Admission to the food show is free with the purchase of a concert ticket at Lehman.  
  For further information and to find out how your restaurant can be part of A Taste of the Bronx, please contact Sara Monserrat at 718-590-2502 
 
   
 


Monday, November 29, 2010

Public Hearing Thursday December 2nd

    As it appeared in the City Record Monday November 29, 2010, there will be a Public hearing on Thursday December 2nd 2010 at 10AM in room 915 of the Bronx County Building 851 Grand Concourse by Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.
    The matter of the public hearing is to an application submitted by the Department of City Planning pursuant to sections 197c and 201 of the New York City charter for an amendment of the Zoning Map, Section # 1D and 3C. The zoning changes will occur in Community Boards #7 and 12.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Riverdale Review Boycott?

    It appears that there is someone or some people who are participating in the above boycott who are leaving comments that have derogatory remarks. In the matter of the boycott of the Riverdale Review this blog and my column have taken an opinion that the whole matter is none of our business. While we may have some gripes with the owner of the Review, we also have some problems with the those tactics that are being used by the anti-Review people, such as the comments being left on this and other blogs. I have not seen any of those comments on the Bronx News Network blog, and why has Gary Axelbank not done a show about it.
    I will not get into the personalities of Mr. Andrew Wolf or Mr. Anthony Perez Cassino, whom this whole boycott seems to be centering around. If you want to comment on this post you may, however please do not put any links to biased opinions, or derogatory remarks as they will be deleted.  
     
   

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Assemblyman Marcos Crespo Calls Upon Cathie Black To Withdraw Her Application For School Chancellor
    Assemblyman Marcos Crespo (D-Bronx) is calling upon Cathie Black to withdraw as New York City School Chancellor Candidate. “While I respect Cathie Black’s interest in overseeing the New York City school system that serves 1.1 million children, I respectfully suggest that she withdraw her application. Ms. Black has an impressive resume that may very well be sought after by many media companies, but our education system should not be supervised by anyone who needs to be chaperoned by someone else who has the required education experience."
    “The advisory panel recommended for the State Education Department to deny the waiver for Cathie Black, even though according to reports, some of those panel members are tied to the Bloomberg Administration. 
     Like many of my colleagues and like many parents of children who attend New York City’s public schools, I urge State Education Commissioner David Steiner to deny the waiver as submitted and refuse to circumvent the waiver process by rejecting any modified waiver for Ms. Black. 
    “It is unconscionable to consider that Mayor Bloomberg would resubmit Cathie Black’s School Chancellor application with new conditions - such as being joined with a co-chancellor who has education experience.  The very suggestion that since Ms. Black’s experience does not qualify her to serve, an alternative waiver could permit her to serve with a qualified co-chair does not seem to be within the scope of the law. 
    “Just one year ago, Mayor Bloomberg emphasized why New Yorkers should have more choices when electing their mayor.  I respectfully suggest that the Mayor give himself more choice and select someone who qualifies for the position of School Chancellor and has the experience to serve as required by law.”

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Will State Education Commissioner Steiner Give Cathie Black A Waiver Now That His Panel Votes Against It?

    In a four to two vote with two members abstaining the panel of experts set up by State Education Commissioner David Steiner has said no to giving a waiver to Mayor Bloomberg's choice of Hearst Publications President  Ms Cathie Black This now leaves a very big question to the fytyre of Ms. Cathie Black, and just when will Mayor Bloomberg withdraw her as his choice to replace Joel Klein as chancellor of the New York City public schools. 
    Once the panel released their decision there was no comment by Mayor Bloomberg. The two abstaining votes were said to be at this time, and Commissioner Steiner is leaning to have the application resubmitted with a Chief academic officer included.
Friends, Family, and Supporters Celebrate Kenny Agosto's Birthday

    Monday night was the celebration of 80th Assembly Male District Leader Kenny Agosto's 41th birthday. There were many friends, family, supporters, and even a few politicians on hand. New York City Comptroller John Liu said that more people like Kenny Agosto are needed in public office. 78th State Committeeman Ricky Martinez recalled the first time he met Kenny at the Board of Elections when Kenny was running against then Assemblywoman Gloria Davis. Also on hand was newly elected 79th Assemblyman Eric Stevenson, who said that his inauguration was being held on January 8th. 
    While I asked again if he was going to run for the 80th Assembly seat, Kenny again would not commit himself either way. He mentioned redistricting next year, and that he would have to see how the district changes.

Sunday, November 21, 2010

NYS SENATOR ERIC ADAMS AND NYS ASSEMBLYMAN MARCOS CRESPO WILL INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO AMEND STATE LAW CONCERNING WAIVERS FOR NYC PUBLIC SCHOOLS CHANCELLOR

NYS Senator Eric Adams and NYS Assemblyman Marcos Crespo will amend State law to require concurrent resolution by the Senate and Assembly for any Commissioner’s waiver of requirements for persons who do not meet educational or professional prerequisites
NYS Senator Eric Adams states: “My legislation (S8512) will amend the Education law to restrict the ability of the Commissioner of Education to issue a certificate for Superintendent or Chancellor to persons who do not meet educational or professional requirements for the position.
“New York State law requires that school superintendents have a minimum of three years teaching experience and done graduate work in ‘school administration.’  The law enables the Regents to grant waivers in the case of ‘exceptionally qualified persons’ whose ‘exceptional training and experience are the substantial equivalent’ of certification in teaching.
 “Requiring concurrent resolution of the Senate and Assembly for waivers will bring a thorough and essential review process and a necessary transparency.  The individual selected as Chancellor must be the most appropriate person for this uniquely demanding position.” 
NYS Assemblyman Marcos Crespo states: “I will introduce legislation in the NYS Assembly to modify existing Education law to require concurrent resolution of the Assembly and Senate when the State Education commissioner grants a waiver to any individual who does not possess the stipulated requirements for the position of public schools Chancellor.
“It is imperative that any decision on the issuance of a waiver for someone seeking ‘exceptionally qualified person status’ undergo a careful and comprehensive review process to ensure that the selectee is the most qualified individual available.
 “A compelling alternative argument is required in support of anyone who has no background in or commitment to public education; the elected representatives of the people of New York State must review any such selection.”
Sunday, November 21, 2010 – 1:30PM  On the steps of Tweed Courthouse

Saturday, November 20, 2010

THE BRONX CELEBRATED PUERTO RICAN HERITAGE MONTH 2010

    On Thursday, November 18, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and Comité Noviembre celebrated Puerto Rican Heritage Month 2010 honoring an important group of Puerto Rican leaders.  
     The annual event highlights the positive impact the Puerto Rican community has made on virtually every sector of life in The Bronx.  During the celebration, which was attended by more than 250 Bronx community leaders from the fields of academia, community service, the arts, healthcare, business and communications, Borough President Diaz honored the outstanding careers of Marcus Solis, ABC Network reporter, and Angel Rodriguez, well known musician. The keynote speaker for the evening was Nicholasa Mohr, author of numerous acclaimed books for children and adults. 
 Caption: From left, Marcus Solis, Nicholasa Mohr, Borough President Diaz, and Angel Rodriguez.

Friday, November 19, 2010

Did Donald Trump Convince Mayor Bloomberg to Appoint Cathie Black Chancellor?
    If you watched the "Apprentice", Donald Trump's television show last night you saw that the reward for the winning project manager was a meeting with a highly skilled, professional, executive of a major corporation. Since the current season of the Apprentice is filmed weeks in advance, Donald Trump when saying  the title of the person that the winner was having their meeting with only said Ms. Cathie Black President of Heart Publications. 
    I almost fell out of my seat when Donald Trump mentioned Ms. Blacks name, and then realized that if Mayor Bloomberg needed someone to replace Joel Klein, Donald Trump probably suggested that he hire Ms. Cathie Black, some one who Mr. Trump has great admiration for. 
    Now if only Mayor Bloomberg would only admit that he took Donald Trumps advice we could see how she was ever thought of for the position of chancellor. 
   New York State Education Commissioner David Steiner has announced an eight-member screening panel to review Mayor Bloomberg’s waiver request for Ms. Black. Three members are former employees of Joel Klein that left before he did. 
    Mayor Bloomberg said that it would be very difficult for him to find another choice for chancellor if the waiver for Ms. Black is denied. 
TRIM FAT AROUND CITY CONTRACTS BEFORE RESORTING TO LAYOFFS AND SERVICE CUTS
    New York City Comptroller John C. Liu stated the following in response to questions about the Mayor's proposed layoffs and service cuts:
    "Layoffs and cuts to essential city services aren't the only options for closing a daunting $1.6 billion budget gap.  Especially now, there must be a concerted effort across city agencies to identify and trim any fat around city contracts. Specifically, agencies should be questioning whether all contracts are truly necessary, and should also be asking for reasonable cost concessions from its major contractors the way even the MTA has recently and successfully done.
    "In Fiscal Year 2010, my office identified $157.4 million in potential savings through audits of city agencies alone.
    "Working with the Mayor, we will continue to seek additional savings through audits and contract reviews to improve efficiency in city agencies and ensure that each and every dollar available is maximized. In the coming weeks, we will issue our review of the Mayor's budget, including options to consider before resorting to service cuts and layoffs."
Senator Reverend Rubén Díaz to Distribute Thanksgiving Turkeys to Seniors


    New York State Senator Reverend Rubén Díaz, Chair of the Senate Aging Committee, will distribute Thanksgiving turkeys on Friday, November 19, 2010 at two senior citizen centers in The Bronx.
    At 11:30 am, Senator Reverend Díaz will join senior citizens at the Sue Ginsberg Center located at 975 Waring Avenue to distribute turkeys to every member who is present at that center.
    At 12:00 noon, Senator Reverend Díaz will join senior citizens at the RAIN Boston Road Senior Center located at 2424 Boston Road to distribute turkeys to every member who is present at that center.
     “I thank God for all of our senior citizens and wish them all a blessed and happy thanksgiving day”, stated Senator Reverend Díaz.
     Senator Reverend Díaz will be distributing turkeys (or vouchers for turkeys) at eighteen more senior citizen centers in his district before Thanksgiving Day.    

Thursday, November 18, 2010

LEROY PHARMACIES AND MAS INC. TO SPONSOR THANKSGIVING MEALS AND DONATE TURKEYS TO UNDERPRIVILEGED BRONXITES

     Leroy/LeMed Pharmacies and Marketing & Advertising Solutions Inc. (MAS) will be sponsoring Thanksgiving meals for underprivileged Bronxites at HIV Centers throughout the borough as well as donating turkeys to needy Bronx families during the week leading up to Thanksgiving Day. The recent 1st Annual MAS-Querade Ball held on October 28th, which featured a Latin-style buffet, great music, and special performances, allowed MAS and Leroy Pharmacies to raise funds to provide these meals and turkeys this holiday season. “The event was very successful and I’m looking forward to producing more Events by MAS that will benefit the Bronx community” said Jacqueline Acevedo, CEO of MAS Inc.
     “Leroy/LeMed Pharmacies are happy to give back to the community in every way possible. We are excited to have partnered with MAS Inc. to make these events possible for individuals that may not otherwise have a Thanksgiving meal”, says Vipul Parekh, pharmacist at the Gun Hill Road location.
    These Thanksgiving meals are by invitation only. For more information on how to attend these events, please contact MAS Inc. at 718.676.1626. 
    Marketing & Advertising Solutions Inc. was launched in 2007 and is the largest and only freestanding multimedia firm in the borough. Recognized for an unparalleled commitment to clients and obtaining optimum results via all facets of media, MAS provides the strategic aptitude needed to build companies and organizations, large and small.
    
 
SENATOR KLEIN HOLDS ANNUAL TURKEY RAFFLE FOR SENIORS

     Deputy Majority Leader and State Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) visited multiple Senior Centers across the 34th Senate District during the past two weeks, raffling off turkeys just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday.
       “Thanksgiving is all about the turkey and I am so pleased to be able to provide so many of them to our seniors, so that they may enjoy a bountiful holiday feast this year. This annual raffle is one small way for me to say thank you to the great residents of the 34th Senate district, who are truly a wonderful community to represent,” said State Senator Jeff Klein.
      More than two hundred 14-pound plus turkeys were raffled off to seniors throughout the Bronx and Westchester during the month of November.  

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

BP Diaz and Speaker Quinn Host GED Fair

    On Monday, November 15, as part of the New York City Council’s efforts to help New Yorkers get good jobs, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn  hosted an adult education fair to get more New Yorkers to sign up for the GED and for free education courses.
    According to city reports, 1.6 million New Yorkers over the age of 16 don’t have their high school diploma and are more than twice as likely to be unemployed as someone with a college degree.



Open Letter from Senator Rev Ruben Diaz to Archbishop Timothy Dolan

Dear Archbishop Dolan:
    Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on your recent selection as President of the US Catholic Conference of Bishops.  I just read about this in the news, and I am overjoyed!
    During your brief tenure in New York, we have been blessed with your great compassion, your approachability, and your clear commitment to the core principles of faith – all shown in your own characteristically cheerful and loving way.
    We will certainly miss you if you move to DC, but we know that the nation as a whole will gain as you remain at the forefront carrying the message and the mission of respecting the lives of all of God’s children and strengthening the role of the family.
I will continue to value our friendship, and hope and pray that our friendship will continue to grow forever.
Respectfully,
    Senator Reverend Ruben Diaz.
 

Monday, November 15, 2010

Senator Klein Honors Hundreds of Bronx & Westchester Veterans at 4th Annual Breakfast
    On Sunday, November 14th, Deputy Majority Leader and State Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) hosted his fourth annual Veterans Day Breakfast at Villa Barone Manor, honoring hundreds of veterans from the Bronx and Westchester. 
    Every year, Klein holds the complimentary breakfast before the Throggs Neck Veterans Day Parade to pay tribute to local veterans and their families.
    “This is the fourth year that I've hosted hundreds of veterans with a warm and hearty breakfast at Villa Barone Manor before the Throggs Neck Veterans Day Parade. It is truly my honor to welcome the veterans and their families from throughout the 34th Senate District, to celebrate their deep commitment to our nation and to thank them for their honorable service," said State Senator Jeff Klein.
    Veterans and their families enjoyed a breakfast spread of eggs, bacon, toast, orange juice and coffee. At the breakfast the four Grand Marshals of the Throggs Neck Veterans Day Parade - Tom Costello, Robert W. Booth, Russ Schaller and Bob Branizza - were honored with distinguished service awards. Philip Wise, who served as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, was also honored.  
That's Assemblyman Benedetto (second from the right) also on hand, next to Senator Klein (third from the right).

    
Borough President Diaz Hosted Forum on the Small Business Survival Act

    On Friday, November 12, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (BOEDC) hosted a special “Legal Review Forum” on the Small Business Survival Act, City Council Int. 0154-2010, to evaluate the legal arguments and the supportive case law dealing with the constitutionality of the proposed law. 
    If passed, the Small Business Survival Act would create a process of arbitration in commercial lease negotiations in New York City, creating rights for small business owners in the lease process that do not currently exist. The forum participants discussed if the Small Business Survival Act is fully constitutional and legally sound to withstand likely court challenges, and recommended changes that would make it stronger to endure those possible court challenges.  

Friday, November 12, 2010

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: Appointment to Governor-elect Cuomo’s Transition Team
   “I am proud to serve Governor-elect Andrew Cuomo as a member of his transition team. Challenging times are ahead for New York State, and this transition team will work to put together the best and brightest minds to serve our new governor’s administration and build a talented and diverse new state government. I am honored that my friend Andrew Cuomo has chosen me to be a part of this process,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.
Bronx BP Diaz Named to Cuomo Transition Team

   
    The two teams announced by Gov.-elect Andrew Cuomo yesterday are exquisitely balanced exercises in political correctness -- and the conflicting racial, social and economic interests they represent are so profound that the panels would be hard-pressed to agree on the day of the week.
   
Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. is a member of Cuomo's economic-development advisory team.




Thursday, November 11, 2010

SoBRO CELEBRATES 38 YEARS OF BUILDING A BETTER BRONX 38TH ANNIVERSARY GALA TO BE HELD AT THE GRAND HYATT IN NYC 

    On Tuesday December 7th, 2010, the South Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (SoBRO) will hold its 38th Anniversary Gala at the Grand Hyatt in New York City, located at 109 East 42nd Street at Grand Central Terminal. The theme for this year’s gala, “Retrain, Renew, Revitalize” embodies SoBRO’s commitment to positively transform the South Bronx through diverse educational and economic development programs. The theme also reflects the honorees’ accomplishments as they share in SoBRO’s mission of “Building a Better Bronx”.
    The SoBRO gala is one of the largest, most festive and highly visible events held by any Bronx organization. It attracts over 500 guests from the business, political and public sectors and members of the press.  The event provides a platform for celebrating the progress SoBRO has made in helping to invigorate the South Bronx economy and gives us the opportunity to shine a light on our honorees, who are the finest examples of what can be achieved through hard work and determination. Every year, the SoBRO gala recognizes outstanding individuals affiliated with the Bronx including Al Pacino, Garry Marshall, Colin F. Powell, Regis Philbin, basketball legend Walt Frazier and the late Tito Puente, among others.
    The honorees this year include: Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill (Community Leadership Award), Jackson Development Group (Developer of the Year Award), Best Buy (Corporate Leadership Award) and Chairman of the New Yankees Stadium Community Benefits Fund, Serafin Mariel (Spirit of the Bronx Award). SoBRO will also give special recognition to Brian Gold of Sultana Distribution Services, Inc. who created the Bernie Gold & Anthony Pellicano Scholarship Fund which supports high school graduates in SoBRO’s Youth Program in pursuing a college education.
    After the cocktail hour, the festivities will kick-off with a special performance by American Idol Finalist, Ian Holmes, followed by a dinner, auction, Text-to-Pledge™ and dancing with live music. The Master of Ceremonies will be DeMarco Morgan, Anchor/Reporter, WNBC4 New York
     38th Anniversary Gala    
      South Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation     (SoBRO) 
      December 7, 2010 - Cocktail Reception: 6pm, Dinner, Auction, Text-to Pledge & Dancing: 7pm
        The Grand Hyatt in New York City / 109 East 42nd Street at Grand Central Terminal     
        CONTACT: Linda Yantz, Development Associate (718)732-7522, lyantz@sobro.org

   
About SoBRO SoBRO is a not-for-profit community development corporation that has been serving the South Bronx since 1972.  SoBRO’s programs include adult education and workforce training, real estate and community development, technical and financial assistance for businesses, and an array of programs for youth. For additional information about SoBRO, please contact us at: (718) 7292-3113 or visit www.sobro.org.
 
   

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ TO HOST FORUM ON
THE SMALL BUSINESS SURVIVAL ACT

    Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (BOEDC) will host a special “Legal Review Forum” on the Small Business Survival Act, City Council Int. 0154-2010, to evaluate the legal arguments and the supportive case law dealing with the constitutionality of the proposed law. 
    If passed, the Small Business Survival Act would create a process of arbitration in commercial lease negotiations in New York City, creating rights for small business owners in the lease process that do not currently exist. This forum will try to determine if the Small Business Survival Act is fully constitutional and legally sound to withstand likely court challenges, and to recommend changes that would make it stronger to endure those possible court challenges.
    Business owners and entrepreneurs from across the City will have the opportunity to present their view on the constitutionality of the Small Business Survival Act and to offer any recommendations for changes to the proposed.  Panel members will be attorneys of law with backgrounds involving the legal issues of this proposed legislation.  
     Friday, November 12, 2010  10:00 am to 12:00 pm
   851 Grand Concourse- Bronx Borough Hall Rotunda- 1st floor
       

TEAMWORK FOUNDATION, INC  HOSTS 3rd ANNUAL PREP SCHOOL FAIR  NOVEMBER 12, 2010 - GAUCHOS GYM

    Teamwork Foundation, Inc., a 501 (C) 3 non-profit organization, will host their 3rd Annual Prep School Fair Friday November 12, 2010 at Gauchos Gym. The Prep School Fair is a free event, from 6 to 8pm, and is open to the general public. Gauchos Gym is located in the Bronx at 478 Gerard Avenue. 
    Teamwork Foundation’s Prep School Fair is an opportunity for middle school and high school students in the New York City area to meet with admissions officers from top prep schools in the Northeast and learn about the complete boarding school experience from campus life and athletics to financial aid and college prep.
    This year, the fair will host a number of schools including: The Hotchkiss School, Phillips Exeter Academy, St. Mark’s School, Loomis Chaffe School, Taft School, Trinity Pawling, Deerfield Academy, Berkshire School, Peddie School, Suffield Academy, St. Paul’s School, The Kent School, Salisbury School, Millbrook School, and Lawrenceville School.
    About Teamwork Foundation Inc.
Teamwork Foundation Inc., located in the Bronx, New York has been providing high quality after-school and summer basketball programs to inner city boys and girls for more than 40 years! With more than 80% of program graduates receiving at least one year of college tuition through scholarships the program has benefited more than 11,000 kids. More than 200 of Teamwork Foundation alumni have gone on to play in Division I colleges and a select few have reached NBA distinction.  
    For more information call  Siri Larkins  718 665 6951 e-mail  siriscottlarkins@gmail.com 

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Mayor Bloomberg Announces Schools Chancellor Joel Klein Resigns

     It is official New York City Schools Chancellor Joel Klein has resigned his job as schools chancellor to take a position with News Corp the owners of the New York Post, television stations channels 5 and 9 among the many vast holdings of the Murdoch empire. Could it be that Klein has been tapped to negotiate the deal with Cablevision, or will he now run the Fox Sports Department, but it is said that Klein will be an executive vice president in the chairman’s office. 
     Bloomberg said that it was time for Klein to go, and no one deserves more credit for turning around a dysfunctional school system then Joel Klein. Klein had initially said that he would serve only two four year terms as schools chancellor, not knowing that the Mayor would get the City Council to change the term limit law so they could serve a third term in office. 
    Ms. Cathie Black the current Hearst Magazines Chairwoman will replace Joel Klein as the new chancellor as announced by Mayor Bloomberg. Ms. Black is right out of the Klein mold, as schools chancellor Klein was chairman and chief executive officer of Bertelsmann, Inc. one of the world’s largest media companies.
    We have no doubt that Ms. Black will be just like Joel Klein, and continue most if not all of his policies.  We see no improvement in parent relations, lower test scores (now that the inflated scores were revealed as false), and we look for a teacher strike when the UFT contract runs out.It is rumored that Ms. Black is an advocate of Charter Schools.
    Welcome to the New York City education system Ms. Black
Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: The appointment of Cathie Black as new chancellor of the Department of Education
“I welcome Cathie Black as the new chancellor of the Department of Education. This is a very challenging time for public schools in New York City. We have seen State test scores drop dramatically at schools across the five boroughs, stagnant graduation rates at our high schools, and schools closed without any meaningful input from the community. In many ways Bronx parents and parents throughout the city have lost confidence in the Department of Education, and I am hopeful that Ms. Black will usher in a new era of collaboration and community responsiveness at the DOE while we work together to improve our public schools for the 1.1 million children who rely on them,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.


Monday, November 8, 2010

BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ TO HOST FORUM ON
THE SMALL BUSINESS SURVIVAL ACT

    Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (BOEDC) will host a special “Legal Review Forum” on the Small Business Survival Act, City Council Int. 0154-2010, to evaluate the legal arguments and the supportive case law dealing with the constitutionality of the proposed law. 
    If passed, the Small Business Survival Act would create a process of arbitration in commercial lease negotiations in New York City, creating rights for small business owners in the lease process that do not currently exist. This forum will try to determine if the Small Business Survival Act is fully constitutional and legally sound to withstand likely court challenges, and to recommend changes that would make it stronger to endure those possible court challenges.
    Business owners and entrepreneurs from across the City will have the opportunity to present their view on the constitutionality of the Small Business Survival Act and to offer any recommendations for changes to the proposed.  Panel members will be attorneys of law with backgrounds involving the legal issues of this proposed legislation.  
     Friday, November 12, 2010
      10:00 am to 12:00 pm
   851 Grand Concourse- Bronx Borough Hall 
   Rotunda-  1st floor 
Contact:   John DeSio 718-590-3543/ Liseth Perez Almeida 718-590-2509  for more details.     

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Will We Know The State Senate Outcome Soon?
Maybe Not According To The  Politicians.

    Senate President Malcolm Smith admitted last night that the Democrats might be forced to negotiate with their GOP enemies on a power-sharing agreement so the house can function if recounting and legal fights in the three cliffhanger races that will determine control of the chamber (or perhaps deadlock it) drag on through January.
    Gov. David Paterson is formally backing off his plans to bring the Legislature back to Albany on Nov. 15th for a lame duck session, saying he agrees with Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver that the Senate chaos requires that date to be pushed back at least several weeks.
   This is not the first time that Paterson yielded to the wishes of the real governor of New York State, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver. Paterson agreed with Silver saying that by Nov 15th the three races in doubt would probably not be solved by then, and hoped that he could get the full legislature in session before Jan. 1, 2011.
  There are some items that need to be taken care of before the year ends Paterson did say.

Friday, November 5, 2010

THE BRONX CELEBRATES PUERTO RICAN HERITAGE MONTH 2010

    Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and Comité Noviembre will celebrate Puerto Rican Heritage Month 2010 honoring an important group of Puerto Rican leaders. 

    The “Celebrando Nuestra Cultura Puertorriqueña” event is especially festive as the Puerto Rican community has made such a great, positive impact on virtually every sector of life in The Bronx.  The celebration will be attended by more than 250 Bronx community leaders from the fields of academia, community service, the arts, healthcare, business and communications.  

    This year’s honorees are: Marcus Solis, ABC Network reporter; and Angel Rodriguez, musician. The keynote speaker for the evening will be Nicholasa Mohr, author of numerous acclaimed books for children and adults. 

     Thursday, November 18th---5:30PM

    Bronx Museum of the Arts - 

    1040 Grand Concourse at East 165th Street

   Seating is limited, to RSVP 

   call 718-590-3522 or email           

  lroldan@bronxbp.nyc.gov 

       

Thursday, November 4, 2010

VERNUCCIO FOR STATE SENATE
34TH DISTRICT   REPUBLICAN/CONSERVATIVE
November 3, 2010

VICTORY IN DEFEAT
  Although the tidal wave of Democrat victories in New York State unfortunately included my race in the 34th Senatorial District, we were successful in many ways.

      Most importantly, we changed the entire political conversation in New York State, a fact that will bear great importance in the future.  When I began my race, I was the only candidate seriously discussing the abolition of failing agencies like the MTA.  By the end of the campaign, my original concept had been adopted by many, if not most candidates on both sides of the political divide. 

      Similarly, while many candidates were discussing a tax cap, I was one of the only candidates to discuss an actual tax reduction.  Eventually, many candidates adopted that position.

      Throughout this race, many liberal Democrat candidates, including my opponent, pretended  to adopt conservative positions.  Indeed, this was a general strategy throughout the Democrat party.  I intend to monitor those who did so, and expose those who (as expected) once again break their trust with the voters. 
      My campaign was unique in that in accepted no funds from special interests, and received almost no funds from political parties.  Albany must be freed of the stranglehold of vested interests that have bankrupted the state, and made a mockery of democracy.  We can, and we must, do better. 

     I am deeply grateful to all those volunteers who gave so generously of their time and effort.  I will never forget their fighting spirit and generosity.  I pledge to you that I will continue the noble battle that we began with this campaign. 
Frank V. Vernuccio, Jr.

Paid for by Friends of Vernuccio
 

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

The Day After Election Day
Here's What Happened

    Andrew Cuomo will be the next Governor of New York State. 
    Eric Schneiderman pulls out a victory in the race for New York State Attorney General.
    It was 2AM when Tom DiNapoli declared victory in the race for New York State Comptroller.
    The New York State Senate is now controlled by, well we don't know yet, and may not for several days as there are three State Senate races that are too close to call. 
    New York State Assembly candidate McLaughlin wins (see below).
   Republicans take control of the House of Representatives, while Democrats barely keep control of the U.S. senate as Schumer and Gillibrand win re-election but not by huge margins. 
    
    Locally all Democrats won re-election, and no Joe McLaughlin did not beat 81st Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, but in the 108th Assembly District (in upstate Rensselaer County) Steve McLaughlin defeated Assemblyman Tim Bishop.
   Both ballot proposals were passed by the voters, so we look for another Charter Revision Commission next year.
   

Monday, November 1, 2010

Tomorrow Is Election Day
Vote No on Both Ballot Proposals
  If you read last weeks column titled AEG strikes again at the end of the column you saw our predictions for election day 2010 statewide. We still thing that the Coumo landslide will pull in three new Democratic seats in the State Senate, and Comptroller candidate Tom DiNapoli. As for A.G. candidate Eric Schniderman who won the Democratic Primary with only 34 percent, he could be in trouble. Schniderman has been sideswiped more than once by not only his opponent, but by cable t.v. channel New York 1.
    Locally it looks like 81st Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz will breeze once again to victory, and we wonder why Mr. Anthony Perez Cassino did not challenge him this year. That could have been a very interesting race, as Mr. Cassino could have confronted Dinowitz face to face about his removal from Community Board #8, rather then having someone unfamiliar to the situation sit in for him. We also expect State Senator Jeff Klein currently Deputy Senate Majority Leader to coast to an easy victory. The only question is will Senator Klein become the Senate Majority Leader or become its next Senate Minority Leader? 
    If the Dems loose the State Senate that could be the out to allow Senator Klein run for the possible new East Bronx congressional seat after redistricting. We will tell you that New York should be loosing two congressional seats so get your good-byes ready as Congressman Joe Crowley will probably be going back to Queens County as his whole district. Will former Bronx Borough President Carrion, Senator Klein, Bronx County Democratic County Leader Heastie, Councilman Seabrook, or someone else be looking to run for that new congressional seat?
    We also hope that you vote tomorrow, and vote no on both ballot proposals.