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Showing posts with label Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. Show all posts
Friday, January 11, 2019
Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
"Hit The Ice" at the Kingsbridge Armory
In a 48 - 1 vote the full City Council voted to approve the Kingsbridge National Ice Center proposal for the Kingsbridge Armory. Only Charles Barrons cast the lone dissenting vote against the KNIC proposal. Councilman Fernando Cabrera left his Mr. Hyde character at home as he was all smiles when he voted yes for the KNIC proposal after doing one about face after another leaving Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. puzzled as to what Councilman Cabrera was doing during the waning days before the final city council vote.
Diaz had the following statement about today's City Council Vote to approve the KNIC proposal for the Kingsbridge Armory.
“After
years of hard work and advocacy by elected officials, community
organizations, our community board and the people of the Bronx, I am
thrilled to see that the redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory will
finally become a reality.
“Today’s
vote of the City Council represents the final hurdle cleared for the
Kingsbridge National Ice Center (KNIC), a transformative project that
will make the Bronx home to the nation’s largest ice sports center. KNIC
will bring tens of thousands of new visitors to the borough, helping to
stimulate our economy, while also creating hundreds of living wage jobs
for Bronx residents.
“I
am especially thankful for the support of our City Council and the
entire Bronx City Council delegation, who understood the merits of the
project and showed their strong support for it during today’s vote. The
KNIC project will be good not just for the Northwest Bronx but for the
entire borough, and the strong support of the entire Bronx delegation
shows that to be true. I would also like to thank the developer, KNIC
Partners, as well as Mark Messier and Sarah Hughes for their tireless
advocacy on behalf of this wonderful project.
“This
project is a victory for everyone involved, and represents the type of
development we can see when everyone works together for the greater
good. I look forward to this project’s completion, and the day when the
Bronx can officially declare itself to be the premier ice sports
destination in the United States, if not the nation,” said Bronx Borough
President Ruben Diaz Jr.
The
Kingsbridge National Ice Center project was announced as the City’s
official choice for the Kingsbridge Armory at a press conference in
April 2013, which was attended by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, Borough
President Diaz, Council Member Fernando Cabrera, KNIC Partners LLC
Founder Kevin Parker, New York Rangers hockey legend Mark Messier,
Olympic Figure Skating Gold Medalist Sarah Hughes, then New York City
Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky and then
Community Board #7 Chairman Paul Foster.
The original press release announcing the project can be read here: http://on.nyc.gov/ZGheD1
Also
in April, Kingsbridge National Ice Center Partners (KNIC) and the
Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Alliance (KARA) signed a historic
community benefits agreement (CBA) to redevelop the Kingsbridge Armory
into a facility committed to serving Bronx residents. That CBA
represents a multi-million dollar benefit package for the local
community.
For
the first time in the history of New York City, a developer has agreed
to wall-to-wall living wage jobs for local workers, more than 50,000
square feet of community space, targeted local hiring, opportunities for
minority- and women-owned businesses, free ice time for local schools,
local procurement, sustainable green development and operation, and a
business incubator to facilitate wealth creation for local
residents. KNIC also plans to create a foundation to establish free
after-school ice sports and academic tutoring programs for disadvantaged
youth. The program will be modeled after the Ed Snider Youth Hockey
Foundation in Philadelphia, which has seen considerable academic and
athletic success with those students who participate.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
You're Invited to the Borough's Official Hanukkah Celebration
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Thursday, November 14, 2013
BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ RELEASES COMMUNITY BOARD TASK FORCE REPORT
Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. released the final report of his Community
Board District Office Management Taskforce, outlining various ways that
the borough’s 12 Community Boards can work together to improve service
delivery for the residents of the Bronx.
“Our
community boards are often the first line of defense when it comes to
our neighborhoods, be it concerns over new development, quality of life
and the many other issues that the 1.4 million residents of this borough
care about, and are focused on every day,” said Bronx Borough President
Ruben Diaz Jr. “This report outlines some new ideas that can make our
borough’s community boards, which already play a major role in the lives
of the people of the Bronx, even more relevant.”
"Like
the City and Borough we are comprised of the role, image, and function
of the Community Boards has changed and evolved over time. Our charge
from the Borough President has been to analyze the constantly evolving
roll of the Community Boards and provide our recommendations to adapt
this crucial element of our city governance to accurately reflect a
modern dynamic,” said Jose Rodriguez, District Manager of Bronx
Community Board #4 and chairman of the task force. “As such, it is the
assessment of this Task Force that the aforementioned recommendations
take the most effective and cost efficient approach in ensuring the
stability and function of the Community Boards while increasing services
and the manner in which they are delivered. The recommendations
highlighted provide a multi-disciplined approach including policy,
social service, and technology. It is the belief of this Task Force
that this multi-pronged approach is vital to promote the continued
growth and success of our city and Borough."
The
full report features a number of recommendations regarding Bronx
Community Boards and service delivery on a variety of topics, including
land use, improved service delivery, board member training and improved
social media use, in order to better inform both board members and the
community at large.
The full report can be read at: http://on.nyc.gov/1bEkcLY
Under
the New York City Charter, Community Boards have specific
responsibilities relating to the delivery of municipal services, the
city budget, land use and zoning. The Taskforce will examine how the
delivery of city services has changed over the last 10 years and make
recommendations on how Community Boards can leverage these developments
to improve oversight, execution and equity.
The
duties of board member include participating in recommendations
regarding city budget priorities that affect the social, economic,
health and safety needs of the community. Members also advise
government agencies and elected officials on matters relating to the
welfare of the district and its residents.
Friday, October 25, 2013
BP DIAZ KICKS OFF 'SAVOR THE BRONX' RESTAURANT WEEK'
BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ KICKS OFF
3rd ANNUAL ‘SAVOR THE BRONX’ RESTAURANT WEEK
Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., kicked off the 3rd Annual “Savor the Bronx” Restaurant Week at Jake’s Steakhouse in Riverdale.
“Savor
the Bronx” Restaurant Week, produced by the Bronx Tourism Council and
co-hosted by the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (BOEDC),
showcases the borough’s best eateries by offering special values and
discounts.
This 12-day event, which runs from November 4th to November 15th, is
the perfect opportunity to explore your taste buds and the Bronx. From
Italian cuisine in Little Italy to seafood on City Island and
everywhere in between, “Savor the Bronx” offers everyone a chance to
enjoy the diverse flavors our borough has to offer. Below are some photos of the event, and the delicious food that was sampled.
Above - Bronx Brewed Beer was also featured at the Kick-Off.
Right - Soon to Councilman Andrew Cohen poses with Mr. Lenny Caro President of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce.
Left - Paul DelDuca Chief of staff to BP Diaz & Ray Sanchez (also of BP Diaz's staff) chat with Assemblyman Jeff Dinowitz and soon to be Councilman Andrew Cohen.
Right - BP Diaz gives a proclamation to the manager of Jake's Steak House for the excellent food, and for hosting the event.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
The Bronx Marks the Spot With Tour de Bronx The Largest Free Bicycling Event in New York State
The Bronx Marks the Spot
With Tour de Bronx
The Largest Free Bicycling Event in New York State
With Tour de Bronx
The Largest Free Bicycling Event in New York State
- Thousands come from around the country and around the world
to Xercise, Xplore and Xperience The Bronx
to Xercise, Xplore and Xperience The Bronx
Today, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., The Bronx Tourism Council and Transportation Alternatives announced the 19th Annual “Tour de Bronx,” the largest free bicycling event in New York State which will take place on Sunday, October 27th.
Sponsored
by the Montefiore Medical Center, St. Barnabas Hospital and the Bronx
Lebanon Medical Center, the “Tour de Bronx” traditionally brings
together nearly 6,000 bicyclists from around the world.
“The
‘Tour de Bronx’ is a wonderful event, and each year I am always excited
to join my fellow Bronxites and thousands of visitors from around the
city, nation and the world to ride and see all the great things The
Bronx has to offer. Riding a bike around our borough is the healthiest
way to see the best of the Bronx, and I am delighted to hear the
positive feedback from visitors each year when they participate in the
‘Tour de Bronx.’ I invite everyone to join me again this year to tour
our beautiful borough,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.
"This
great event shows Bronx residents that biking is not only a fun and
healthy way to get around the borough. It's a viable transport option,"
says Transportation Alternatives’ Executive Director Paul Steely White.
To
further prove that The Bronx is fast becoming a destination, last
year’s event welcomed registrants from all over the United States, as
well as Europe, South America and even Asia. “Given the amount of
positive coverage we’ve been enjoying in national and international
media, we expect to see an increase in visitors participating in this
event,” stated Olga Luz Tirado, Executive Director of The Bronx Tourism
Council. “We are anxious to show off our borough to the rest of the
world.”
“The
New York Botanical Garden looks forward to welcoming the Tour de Bronx
cyclists to nature’s showplace, dressed in its finest fall colors” said
Aaron Bouska, Associate Vice President for Government and Community
Relations at the New York Botanical Garden. “Not only do cyclists get to
see the best of the Bronx on October 27,
but they do so in a healthy and sustainable manner – values we share
and promote every day at the Garden. Congratulations to Bronx Borough
President for his leadership in this endeavor.”
“For
the past five years, Montefiore has supported Tour de Bronx as a way to
promote healthy living and wellness in our community while celebrating
the historic neighborhoods and beautiful greenways of the Bronx," said
Steven M. Safyer, president and CEO, Montefiore Medical Center.
"Montefiore is committed to improving the health of the community we
serve and we are proud to sponsor this borough-wide biking event."
It
couldn’t be easier to participate in the “Tour de Bronx,” as numerous
City agencies and corporate sponsors are rolling out the red carpet for
cycling enthusiasts. Metro North Railroad will waive their bicycle
permit requirements and quantity limits for the day, allowing for groups
of riders to participate. The Department of Transportation will fit and
distribute free bicycle helmets beginning at 8 a.m.
while supplies last. The rider must be present and sign a waiver. For
children under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present
and will also need to sign a waiver. Coca Cola will distribute Dasani
water, Powerade sports drinks and Fuze. Pizza will be provided after the
ride courtesy of Domino’s.
The
event offers both a 25- and 40-mile course, each of which winds through
dozens of beautiful Bronx neighborhoods, historic districts, parks,
waterfront, Greenway paths and more. Both routes culminate at the New
York Botanical Garden for end-of-ride pizza, refreshments and a music
festival.
Log onto www.ilovethebronx.com to register.
Left - BP Diaz speaking about the Tour De Bronx.
Right Roberto Garcia of Montifore Hospital has two employees who take part in the Tour De Bronx.
Below - Several sponsors and bike riders who will take part in this year's Tour De Bronx.
Friday, October 4, 2013
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Primary Day 2013 Halfway Point
Today is Primary day 2013 for Democrats and Republicans. While republicans are only choosing between three candidates for Mayor it is a different story for Democrats. Democrats have a choice of 6 candidates for Mayor 2 for City Comptroller, 5 for Public Advocate, 2 for Bronx Borough President, and from 0 - 6 candidates for various city council races. There is an added bonus election this year with the stepping down of former 86th A.D. Assemblyman Nelson Castro where 7 candidates are running.
The early turn out is from light to very light, and at minutes before noon time I found one Election District that had no votes cast. There seem to be little problems in using the old Lever Voting machines, unless you happen to be Joe Lhota who had to cast a paper ballot due to a Lever Voting machine breakdown. Paper ballots are on hand at all poll sites just in case any machine becomes inoperative.
As for my own exit polling- here in the Bronx (11th and 15th Council Districts) the two Bills are receiving the most votes for Mayor. Outside of the poll workers it was almost impossible to find any Republican voters in the 11th & 15th Council Districts. Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. is out and campaigning hard all over the Bronx, while I could only see signs of his opponent. The 11th Council District seems to be going the way I called it "Big for Cohen", and the 15th Council District has all 6 candidates working their strengths as you will see in the photos below.
That's 80th A.D. Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj at the wheel of this Thompson for Mayor vehicle on the road in the 80th A.D.
Left - That's 15th Council District candidate Cynthia Thompkins talking to 15th Council District Raquel Batista who is driving around the district. This photo is taken outside the PS 46 poll site, a strong hold for both of these candidates.
Right - Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. stopped by the Riverdale/Kingsbridge Academy (one of the largest polling sites in the Bronx), and poses with his choice for the 11th Council District Andrew Cohen.
Left - One sign of Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.'s opponent has fallen to the bottom of the pole it is on one block from the Riverdale/Kingsbridge Academy.
Right - A sign of 11th Council Candidate Andrew Cohen's opponent.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Diaz endorses Thompson For Mayor
On the steps of City Hall Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. holds up the hand of his choice for mayor this year former City Comptroller Bill Thompson. He touted Thompson’s vision for New York
City that includes economic development that benefits working-class people, an
education system that focuses on quality education for all of New York’s
students, a commitment to the development of small businesses throughout the
five boroughs, and one that uses government as a partner, not a barrier in
economic expansion.
“I have known Bill Thompson for two decades. He was the
right man to lead our city as mayor four years ago, and he remains the right
man today. In his time as both our comptroller and the leader of our city’s school
system, Bill developed the knowledge and experience to lead our city. Bill has
laid out a vision for New York City that includes economic development that
benefits working-class people and small businesses of all types; an education
system that focuses on quality and student improvement, not just test scores
and school closures; and a commitment to look beyond Downtown Manhattan and
focus on all five boroughs, Bill has been a longtime friend of our city’s
Latino community. But I know that my friend, Bill Thompson, will be a mayor for
all New Yorkers, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual
orientation, or financial status. I encourage everyone to support my friend,
Bill Thompson, and join me in voting for him as our next mayor,” Diaz added.
“Creating economic opportunity is what creates a strong
city. I will put New Yorkers back to work by focusing on economic development
in all boroughs, expanding successful industries, identifying new business
opportunities, and ensuring that all New Yorkers have the professional skills
needed to find a well-paying job,” said former-Comptroller
Bill Thompson. “I’m running because New Yorkers want a leader with the
experience, vision, and ability to transform our economy so that we can
guarantee the City works for every community in every neighborhood.”
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Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Bronx Week 2013 Kickoff
Monday May 6th in the rotunda of the Bronx County building Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. kicked off the activities for Bronx Week 2013. Bronx Week 2013 will take place from Thursday, May 9th through Sunday, May 19th,
and will conclude with the induction of Latin music composer and
businessman Miguel Angel Amadeo, political and civic leader Robert
Abrams and award-winning actress Ellen Barkin to the Bronx Walk of Fame.
“Bronx
Week is a great time for Bronxites and Bronxites at heart, to come
rediscover all that this wonderful borough has to offer. Bronx Week is
ten full days of celebration, and I invite everyone to come celebrate
with us,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.
This
year’s kickoff event was held at the Bronx County Building’s Rotunda,
and featured an appearance by 2013 Bronx Walk of Fame honoree Miguel
Angel Amadeo, an award-winning Latin music composer and longtime Bronx
resident and business owner.
The
launch event also featured a “Best of the Bronx” festival, which
included live music, food and fun. Numerous borough businesses,
including Babalu, B Blossom Garden, Bronx Ale House, Bronx Brewery,
Delicioso Coco Helado, DuFour Pastry Kitchen, Flantastic, Landin
Macaroni & Cheese, Lloyd’s Carrot Cake, Tirado Distillery and United
Pickle provided samples of their product to the nearly 200 individuals
in attendance. The
event included a live performance from Latin jazz combo Yuka Seka and a
showcase of merchandise by Mainland Media.
Bronx
Week will close with the annual Bronx Parade and Food & Arts
Festival on Mosholu Parkway on Sunday, May 19, 2013. In addition to
dozens of food and arts vendors, as well as the borough’s biggest parade
showcasing “Bronx Pride,” the annual concert will feature performances
by hip-hop legend Biz Markie, renowned salsero Lalo Rodriguez as well as
reggae and reggaeton pioneer Notch.
Left - Bronx Borough President enjoys some of the Bronx food offered at the Bronx Week 2013 Kick off.
Right - Diaz holds one of the local Bronx products, Bronx Beer.
Left - Lloyds carrot cake sample cup cakes were sampled.
Right - Delicioso Coco Helado is sampled.
Left - The Bronx Beer Company table, is next to the Bronx Ale House table.
Right - Bronx made whiskey by Tirado Distillery is tasted. 
Left - There was musical entertainment from the Bronx.
Right - BOEDC Head Ms. Marlene Cintron welcomes everybody, as Ms. Olga Luz Tirado of the Bronx Tourism Council waits to introduce Bronx BP Ruben Diaz Jr. and Congressman Charles Rangel.
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Wednesday, June 6, 2012
BOROUGH PRESIDENT DIAZ CALLS FOR HALT TO AFTERSCHOOL CUTS
Today, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz
Jr. released a letter to Mayor Michael Bloomberg outlining the potential
damage the mayor’s proposed cuts to the Out of School Time (OST)
afterschool program would have on the Bronx. In the letter, Borough
President Diaz urges Mayor Bloomberg to commit to fully funding these
critical programs.
“The
families of New York City must continue to have access to quality
services and afterschool programming. We must work to make sure that
all of our Bronx students are prepared for success in and out of school
and that we provide safe alternatives to during after school hours,”
wrote Borough President Diaz in his letter.
The
Out-of-School Time (OST) Program provides a mix of academic,
recreational and cultural activities for young people (grades K-12)
after school, during holidays and in the summer. Programs are free of
charge and are located in every neighborhood across the City.
The
Bloomberg administration’s proposed cuts would lead to a 43 percent
reduction in OST service in the Bronx. In addition, the administration
has already announced that the Beacon Program at I.S. 192 in Throggs
Neck—which served more than 1,300 Bronx students this past year alone—is
also scheduled to close.
“Our
working families rely on these programs to provide their children with a
safe place to both catch up on school work and socialize after classes.
In a down economy—when families need all the help they can to make ends
meet—these programs are even more important. Mayor Bloomberg must
restore these destructive cuts,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz
Jr.
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