Welcome2Melrose

Welcome2Melrose.com Is Now Officially Open!!!

2011-03-22T08:14:00.000-04:00

Thanks go Google's blogger for hosting our blog for all this time however we have now officially made the transition over to our own site so make sure you go to: http://www.welcome2melrose.com from now on!
Once again, we will no longer be updating this site and will be officially moving to: http://www.welcome2melrose.com effectively immediately!

Pic of the Day - Old Melrose Beauty

2011-03-21T09:37:00.001-04:00

After 18 years abandoned and distressed, this landmark Melrose mansion has been restored and is once again occupied. More info coming very soon on this property and its history - past, present and future plans.

Happy St Patrick's Day From Melrose!

2011-03-17T11:09:00.000-04:00

This morning we were treated to the sounds of bagpipes and a small mini processing courtesy of FDNY Division 6, Engine 71/Ladder 55 down Melrose Avenue to 149th Street as they escorted their fellow brothers who will be marching in today's St. Patrick's Day Parade in Manhattan. Residents quickly took out their cell phones, snapping pictures with shouts of "We love you FDNY, God Bless!"
It was a truly a wonderful surprise to hear out one's windows.
A big Welcome2Melrose THANK YOU to our local FDNY Firefighters who put their lives in danger to protect us every day!

A Tree of Knowledge Grows In Melrose

2011-03-14T13:36:00.000-04:00

Melrose (as is the rest of the South Bronx) is a literary wasteland. Why? Because big name stores like Barnes and Noble, refuse to open stores in the neighborhood claiming, in not so harsh words, that we're too stupid and poor to support a store. Yet, local residents have to either trek to Bay Plaza, Westchester or Manhattan to get their book fix on.

Enter Coqui Mexicano, the local Puerto Rican and Mexican fusion shop which is more than just an eatery but a cultural gem of Melrose. Danisha Nazario, the coqui half of Coqui Mexicano and local resident and homeowner was frustrated at the lack of such basic services like bookstores. Out of this frustration came a true labor of love: A free literary project which provides residents with an opportunity to browse hundreds of books and take what they like - for free.

Coqui Mexicano is a registered member of a project called BookCrossing which is a self-described "World Library". It is the social network of books. You can create an account, register a book and "release" it into the wild. Through BookCrossing you can track your donated book and its journeys, reviews, etc. (pretty much like the wheresgeorge.com project of dollar bills).

To date, Coqui Mexicano has contributed over 500 books as part of this free community library since they began in January of 2009 and in these harsh economic times, a penny earned is a penny saved.

This is what Coqui Mexicano has to say about this endeavor:

"On top of wanting to own a business for the first time, we also wanted to make a difference in the neighborhood. Reading should not be a luxury and that is why we have started a bookcrossing in our establishment. Books can be expensive and during these hard times....why should we not learn how to share with each other, learn from each other, enjoy each other, and interact with each other?

We wanted a business that offered fresh food, culture, cleanliness,music, and a spot where people from different cultures, different ethnicities, differnet walks of life, different social circumstances felt comfortable enough to come together and interact with each other with the hopes that eventually we can all see that we have more in common with each other than we have differences.

We got obsessed with the particular location we are in now. The previous owner just didn't care about anything and it showed! We felt it just dragged down the whole surrounding area which has had a bad reputation for many years with no one to prove that reputation otherwise. The area cried for VIDA and that's what we wanted to contribute to it....VIDA!

Because we are humble people of the neighborhood who are of meager means......what we can offer at our establishment at this moment is very limited.....BUT....it is clean....and it is fresh.

We hope that with your help we can get on our feet and expand to realize this dream!"

-from Coqui Mexicano's profile on BookCrossing.

So if you're in the mood for some good books, check out their collection by either going to the store (and don't forget to try their scrumptious food) or you can simply go to their profile on bookcrossings and browse the list from the comfort of your own home (sans guava cake, flan, flancocho, ricanized cous-cous or any of there dozens of tasty dishes).

Also, before throwing out your books, please consider DONATING them to Coqui Mexicano so that they can in turn share them with those less fortunate at absolutely no cost.

Here's a big welcome2melrose THANK YOU for Coqui Mexicano's continued success in providing us with a quality establishment that gives back to our community.

Dwight Hardy: A Diamond In The Rough

2011-03-08T20:39:00.001-05:00

Not all stories that come out of the projects in Melrose are tragic ones that end in death or drug busts.
Dwight Hardy's is just that kind of story that shines like a beacon in the stormy seas of living in urban public housing in the poorest congressional district of the country.
Read more:
NYT: Dwight Hardy: From the Bronx t

A Celebration of Women Entrepreneurs in the Bronx

2011-03-03T06:17:00.001-05:00

This coming Tuesday, March 8th please join us at PeaceLove Cafe as we celebrate Women's History Month with a panel discussion focusing on Bronx women entrepreneurs. The panel discussion is part of a year long series of events hosted by The Bronx Entrepreneurs and Business Network, a local grassroots networking group.
See press release below for more info:

A Celebration of Women Entrepreneurs in the Bronx

The Bronx Entrepreneurs and Business Network, an independent grassroots networking group, will celebrate Women's History Month with a spotlight on women and Bronx entrepreneurs Tuesday, March 8th at the PeaceLove Cafe in Melrose. Free.

Press Release - Feb 28, 2011 - The Bronx Entrepreneurs and Business Network, an independent grassroots networking group, will celebrate Women's History Month with a spotlight on women and Bronx entrepreneurs Tuesday, March 8th at the PeaceLove Cafe in Melrose.

In these trying times with so many entrepreneurs and businesses struggling to stay in business, this event will feature a panel discussion on getting the most out of networking and referrals without having to spend a lot of money. Find out tips on choosing networking events that are best for you and your business. Learn strategies on using social media for your business effectively.

The event is 7-9 p.m. March 8 at the PeaceLove Cafe, 617 Melrose Ave. It is free and open to the public.

Clarisel Gonzalez, editor and publisher of PRSUN Communications, will moderate the panel.

Panelists:

Marcia Cameron, Bronx Women's Business Resource Center

Marcia Cameron is currently the Director of the Bronx Women’s Business Resource Center. This center seeks to empower women and minority entrepreneur by assisting them become economically independent through self-employment and is the only one located in the Bronx. Prior to joining the Women’s Center Ms. Cameron worked for both Wachovia Bank and JPMorgan Chase Bank where she was responsible for the retention and acquisition of existing and new-targeted client segments. In both positions she earned awards and accolades from her employers.

A strong believer in giving back to her community she worked as a volunteer Literacy tutor at the New York Public Library and is the Executive Director for the National Christian Chamber of Commerce Inc.

Ms. Cameron attended the University of Technology in Jamaica, where she earned a Degree in Electrical Engineering. She received a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Concordia College, a private Lutheran College in Bronxville, NY.

Cheryl Sanchez, The NetWorks Organization

Cheryl Sanchez is the Founder and CEO of TheNetWorks Organization and a consultant for a national radiology company. She is a graduate of Fordham University with a B.S. in Business Administration and an active member of the Fordham University Alumni Association as well as the Bronx Science Alumni Association and the Hudson Union Society. While looking for effective ways to network and market healthcare consulting services in 2005, Cheryl Sanchez learned that there was no one networking organization that could provide everything she was looking for. She subsequently established TheNetWorks (a play on words) as TheNetWorks Organization, LLC in 2006.

Roxanne Ferrance, Cake in a Cup

Cake in a Cup NY was founded in 2008 and has become one of the fastest growing cupcake and cake companies in the Bronx. The company customizes mouth-watering and decadent desserts, which are baked and delivered within 24 hours. The signature "Redds" is what really put us on the map. The business caters weddings, birthday celebrations, corporate events, baby showers and bridal showers too. Some of Cake in a Cup's past catering events included LaChanze book signing tea party for "Little Diva" and for Russell Simmons' Rush HeART Foundation luncheon.

Other highlights of the evening:

Featured artist of the night Cindy Casado aka Cindy SugaRush will perform.

Cindy is a budding & promising performer, passionately vocalizing her message through comedy, poetry, songs, writings of monologues, situations & real life experiences.

Comedian CindySugaRusH has been hard at work through out New York City's premiere comedy venues. In addition to her work as an artist, Cindy is also an entrepreneur of her own pet business.

Graphic artist Nina Cochran of CodeNYC has volunteered to take on the new logo project for the Bronx Entrepreneurs and Business Network. Many of Nina's work has an urban city edge to it.

Nina's mission is to spin-off urban themes by branding a mark to cover the 5 boroughs with cutting edge marketing and representation of City Life in all Advertising, Graphics and Promotions. Bronx Entrepreneurs and Business Network members are currently voting on the group's logo from a selection of designs by Nina.

About the venue:

PeaceLove Cafe, Darada David/proprietor

PeaceLove is a healthy food, music, Internet café. It is the first of its kind in the South Bronx. Darada David grew up in the South Bronx and decided to have her business here as a way of giving back and investing in the neighborhood. Darada believes that “healthy eating is so important for our community, for our world.” PeaceLove’s goal is to fill a lack of healthy choices. Darada promotes a “whole South Bronx Health Kick.” At PeaceLove, patrons can relax to live Jazz while sipping on Organic Coffee/Tea and browsing the Internet. The three are inseparable. It looks like downtown uptown. Come by morning, or afternoon. Stop by Friday and Saturday evenings to hear some of the hottest live Jazz/ R&B musicians in New York or Thursday Poetry for a special treat. Visit peacelovecafe.com, PeaceLove Café- Facebook.

Partners for this event are PRSUN Communications and the PeaceLove Cafe. To RSVP, go to http://womenbiz.eventbrite.com.

--- end ---

All African-American WWII Combat Unit Topic of Film Screening At PeaceLove Cafe

2011-02-22T00:55:00.000-05:00

This Saturday, February 26th, join Italian filmmaker, Fred Kuwornu at PeaceLove Cafe for the free screening of 'Inside Buffalo'. Inside Buffalo chronicles the story of the 92nd Buffalo Division, an all African-American segregated combat unit that fought in Italy during World War II.

Here's what the invite has to say:

Reconstructing for the first time an important piece of African American history and placing it within the context of Civil Rights history, the award-winning Inside Buffalo tells the story of the 92nd Buffalo Division, the all African American segregated combat unit that fought with outstanding heroism in Italy during World War II.
Called "Buffalo Soldiers," these men fought two wars at the same time: one against the Nazis, the other against racial discrimination. Those who survived found that their contributions went unnoticed upon their return to United Stated.
Director Fred Kuwornu, an Italian filmmaker of African heritage, finds little-known aspects of the story, including details of the friendships forged between African American soldiers and the Italian partisan fighters and villagers they liberated from fascist rule. It is a 2008 meeting with Spike Lee—who was shooting Miracle at St. Anna on location in Tuscany—that inspired Kuwornu to start this very personal voyage of discovery, culminating in the powerful documentary.
The last living African American soldier awarded the Medal of Honor in WWII, Vernon Baker, recounts vividly his wartime experiences and the heroism of his unit.
Film screening of the documentary and discussion with filmaker Fred Kuwornu.
Presented in collaboration with the Bronxmedia.com and PeaceLove Cafe'.
Thank to support the Legacy of the 92nd Buffalo Soldiers Division in WWII and American Vets.

Visit Inside Buffalo website
http://www.insidebuffalo.org/
PeaceLove Cafe'
617 Melrose Ave, between 151st and 152nd street, Bronx, NY
(347) 577 6397
Take the #2 or #5 train to 3rd Avenue 149th Street and walk 2 blocks to 617 Melrose Ave between 151st & 152nd Street
or Take the # 2,15,19,21,55 bus to the Hub Area.
Free Admission

PeaceLove Cafe Hosts Bronx Social Media Week

2011-02-10T21:54:00.000-05:00

Bronx Social Media Week was celebrated this past Tuesday, February 8th in Melrose and hosted at PeaceLove Café by Clarisel Gonzalez of PRSun Communications. Panelists included an excellent representation of Bronxites such as Mark Callendar of BronxMedia, Nicole Perrino, founder of Bronx Mama, BronxTalk's Gary Axelbank, and myself, founder and editor-in-chief of Welcome2Melrose as well as Welcome2TheBronx and mynewyork.

Instead of boring you with my own personal details of the event and for the sake of trying to be as unbiased as possible, feel free to read more on the event by Shannon Lee Gilstad who attended the event and wrote about the evening from her own point of view.

Old Bronx Courthouse Hosts Most Exclusive Dinner of The Year

2011-02-03T19:00:00.001-05:00

From welcome2thebronx.com:

This past Saturday, the Old Bronx Courthouse in Melrose was open yet again. This time it wasn't for a tour but for a special dinner for the First Annual Bronx Pipe Smoking Society. The email invitation was quite simple: Do not tell a soul of the event, dress code is to be "warm" formal (due to the lack of heat in the empty shell of a building), bring your favorite wine glass and arrive at 7PM SHARP. Password to get in: Perique. The fare? Small game such as possum, fisher, muskrat, raccoon, beaver (yes...beaver...and raccoon).

I arrived at the old, grey landmarked beauty with 3 minutes to spare before show time. Several other guests also began congregating at the gate all eager to get inside out of the cold - and into the cold again. At exactly 7PM a gentleman came out to unlock the gate and welcome us to the event. He asked that we simply follow the candles to the our destination. As we made our way from the foyer and into the lobby we made a left and followed the trail of tea lights into a pitch black room. The trail of lights led us to another room with tons of steel debris and a decrepit staircase lined with candles all the way to the top. We braced ourselves for an awkward climb and within seconds we ascended into a large, cavernous chamber.

A long banquet table was set up to accommodate approximately 30 guests, candle lit and all. Slowly but surely the guests began to arrive, many with dishes of the rather exotic menu. Baron Ambrosia, our very own Bronx Culinary Ambassador, was the brainchild of this event and only someone like the Baron could pull this off.

The dishes were all prepared by various chefs and foodies with whatever game was trapped by Jim DeStephano, who the Baron became friends with at native american event. It was very interesting to listen to the challenges the chef had to prepare something that they typically won't find at a local market further complicated by not having experience in preparing such dishes. That, however, didn't stop them from creating quite the exquisite dishes.

The Raccoon Sexton, prepared by Julia Sexton, was deliciously sweet and was done as a confit of Adirondack raccoon with juniper berries, sage and rosemary served on a Balthezar baguette. Rafael Mata Sr. owner of local Melrose Mexican restaurant, Xochimilco, made the Marta Pescadora Con Salsa De Guaje - fisher cooked with guajes and Chile morita served with chayotes over green rice. Both of these dishes were particular hits.

These small mammals weren't the only exotic dishes on the menu. In no particular order of exoticness were, Columbian Big Butt Ants (lightly pan-fried and pretty much tasted like popcorn), Dak Dae (a Thai dish of fried silk worm pupae) and last but definitely not least, Som Tum with Maengda which is a mixture of shredded green papaya, tomato, string beans and ground peanuts with giant water bugs. Yes...water bugs. And no...I did not try that last one. I stopped at the Dak Dae which wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.

Mostly everyone tried a little bit of each but there were a few, like myself, who were a little too squeamish to even consider trying the water bug dish. All in all it was a great evening with great people, sharing stories of their experiences with exotic fare and if anything, we all basically learned how to survive in case of war or disaster.

I wonder what Baron Ambrosia will think of next?

Coqui Mexicano and PeaceLove Make It To am New York

2011-02-01T12:00:00.000-05:00

Parranda @ Coqui Mexicano

The Scheme @ PeaceLove Cafe

In a recent article on "SoBro" in am New York (note to the readers: Let's stick with the original names of our neighborhoods, i.e. Melrose, Mott Haven, Port Morris, etc) Coqui Mexicano and PeaceLove Cafe were noted amongst other local establishments as part of the "Artsy Side" of Melrose. This is something we at welcome2melrose have come to known for quite some time and we are proud to know that the rest of NYC were let in on that very secret.
A big welcome2melrose CONGRATULATIONS to Darada David of PeaceLove and Diego and Danisha of Coqui Mexicano for making us proud!

Construction In Melrose Continues Despite A Weak Economy

2011-01-19T14:24:00.000-05:00

Melrose continues to rise from the ashes of the 70's and 80's as construction is as active as ever. With 6 developments under various stages of construction and 3 more developments for the very near future, Melrose is definitely experiencing a construction boom like no other in the the Bronx and perhaps the rest of New York City. Stay tuned for more information on these developments over the coming days as we bring you the latest on each site.

Duane Reade to Occupay Retail Space @ Boricua Village

2011-01-04T10:50:00.000-05:00

Passing by Boricua Village the other day, I noticed that there was work going on at retail space of the corner building of Boricua Village at 163rd and 3rd. One quick glance at the building permits showed that Duane Reade was occupying the entire corner. One thing we don't have a shortage of in Melrose, other than banks which we have plenty of, are pharmacies. They can be found in Melrose at least every 4 or 5 blocks so you're never far from one and judging by the size of this new addition to the neighborhood it seems to be a huge one.
Congratulations to Duane Reade on recognizing a need where 700 units are slowly being filled. Let's see who else opens shop here over the next few months.

La Terraza Now Accepting Applications

2010-12-21T15:59:00.001-05:00

Melrose continues to rise as more luxury units come online and new developments are completed. Originally slated to be cooperative apartments but converted to rentals before construction due to the tanking economy, La Terraza , located at Third Avenue and East 158th Street, is now accepting applications for its 84 rental units.

The units will feature hardwood floors, energy star appliances and even outdoor terraces (thus the Spanish name of La Terraza - The Terrace). Of the 84 units, only 3 will be for low-income families and the remainder 81 units will be for middle income households. Apartment size range from studio units to three bedroom apartments.

For more information, visit:

http://www.laterrazarentals.com

Latinos Make Up The Majority In The Bronx

2010-12-15T14:17:00.000-05:00

According to census data released yesterday and analyzed by the New York Times, the Bronx is now officially predominately a Latino Borough. Quite a transition for what once was the most "Jewish borough" of New York City with over 65% of the population identifying as Jewish.
Is it a coincidence that on the same day that the data was announced that Bronx News12 launched a Spanish news service in the Bronx?

Join Us Tomorrow @ Hostos Community College for Coquito Tasting Contest!

2010-11-30T13:35:00.000-05:00

For those of you who don't know, coquito is a Puerto Rican eggnog-like concoction for the holidays and is an alcoholic beverage - and you can sample some of the Bronx' best coquito recipes including our very own Coqui Mexicano recipe (who by the way, came in 3rd place last year in ALL OF NYC!!).
Don't miss a fun and exciting way to start off December!!
Be sure to check out last year's event which welcome2melrose attended!

Community in Action - Cutzone Barbershop Feeds Melrose on Thanksgiving Eve

2010-11-24T12:50:00.000-05:00

Cutzone Barbershop on Melrose Avenue between 151st and 152nd Streets in Melrose was out on this cold day providing a free Thanksgiving meal to the community as a way of saying thanks and also to help out those less fortunate who may otherwise not have something to eat tomorrow. The meal was very Puerto Rican in style with rice and beans, turkey, stuffing and of course pernil (roast pork for those not in the know). This is what Melrose is about. As an attorney who lives in Westchester, yesterday said, "Melrose is different from most neighborhoods in the city because it is more like a village...it's boundaries are pretty defined and the community does rally together...there is a cohesion there (Melrose) that is wonderful to be a part of."

Here's a big Melrose THANK YOU to Danny, owner of Cutzone and his staff for giving back to the community. Today they proved themselves not to just do business here in Melrose but to be part of our wonderful neighborhood. Thanks also goes out to local resident Danisha, for calling in the tip. For more on this story, stay tuned to News12 the Bronx as they were on hand to report on this breaking story as well.

Please make sure you patronize Cutzone Barbershop! We need to support local business who give back to the community!

Cutzone Barbershop

624 Melrose Avenue

Bronx, NY 10455

347-270-0444

A Moment in Bronx History - LGBT and Straight Community United As One

2010-11-22T13:27:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday, November 20th, 2010, members from both the LGBT and Straight communities of the Bronx united together as ONE VOICE against all the hate and bigotry against the Bronx Lesbian and Gay community. The march and rally was a success as hundreds marched from Bronx Community College, over to the 1910 Osbourne Avenue (the site of the vicious attacks last month against 3 men who were thought to be gay), and then down the Grand Concourse for 2.5 miles to the steps of the Bronx County Courthouse at 161st Street and the Grand Concourse.

As the march made its way through the neighborhoods along the route of hundreds of thousands of Bronxites, thousands of residents and business owners listened to the chants of, "Homophobia must end", and "vive tu vida no la mia (Spanish for live your life, not mine). Most nodded in agreement and supported the marchers while a few protested the activities, yelling out their windows for the "gays to go home."

It was a beautiful day of solidarity amongst all Bronxites regardless of their sexual orientation for a call to end of hate crimes in our borough and that it will no longer be tolerated.

Picture of the Day

2010-11-19T14:16:00.001-05:00

Fall... two months later, autumn begins to show its colors...

Courtlandt Corners Open For Business in Melrose

2010-11-18T20:52:00.000-05:00

After years of hard work and labor, the ribbon has been cut at Courtlandt Corners ushering over 300 brand new apartments in the ever growing neighborhood of Melrose. Once a blighted span of two blocks of brownfields on East 161st Street between Melrose and Courtlandt Avenues, the new development through its architecture acts as sort of a gateway into Melrose with beautifully designed buildings on 'either side of the street. Courtlandt Corners is yet another wonderful affordable housing development by Phipps Houses and was designed by Dattner Architects and built by Monadnock Construction. Phipps Houses has a long history in New York City as the city's oldest and largest not-for-profit developer as well as owner of housing for low and middle income families.

The 323 units are a mixture of studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units made available to a wide range of low and middle income individuals and families. The units are quite nice with large windows letting in ample sunlight. Finishing touches such as countertops, tiles and flooring are pretty average and plain compared to competing developments like The Residences at Northrose of Boricua Village and The Eltona - which boast higher end finishes and hardwood flooring. The good thing is that the 2 and 3 bedroom units more than make up for this lack of detail as each of these units come equipped with a washer and dryer. This last detail is where Courtlandt Corners one ups the other developments mentioned as they only have laundry rooms on each floor.

During the opening speeches prior to the ribbon cutting ceremony several key individuals from all the partner organizations spoke of the remarkable turnaround that Melrose has made. Andrew Weinstein, President and CEO of Phipps Housing and Development, spoke about how the site was a brownfield and all of the work it took to clean it up and turn it into Courtlandt Corners. Mr. Weinstein also commented on the importance of this development to the community at large due to its location next to the Melrose Metro North station and his hopes that it will spur the MTA increase service to between the Melrose and Grand Central Station which is only a 13 minute ride and to the northern reaches of Metro North for those reverse commuters.

Rafael E. Cestero, NYC's Commissioner of the Department of Housing and Preservation, spoke with pride of the metamorphoses of Melrose and how above all other neighborhoods in the entire city, Melrose has been redeveloped along with community leaders, government officials, and developers into a neighborhood that people and families are becoming interested in coming back to and not a neighborhood. This is a major reversal of what was once the demise of a neighborhood that political leaders, banks and even its own residents gave up on.

Ronay Menschel, Chair of Phipps houses also echoed what Andrew Weinstein said about working with the MTA to get better service to the Melrose Metro North Station which is an important regional connection right in our own neighborhood. Ms. Menschel also acknowledged all who worked hard on making this project a reality for the community.

Courtland Corners consists of 2 sites directly across from each other on East 161st Street between Melrose and Courtlandt Avenues. The northern building is lined with ground floor commercial space from Courtlandt all the way to Melrose Avenue and the southern site offers ground floor commercial space as well, from Courtlandt Avenue to halfway up the block toward Melrose Avenue. The combined sites offer over 21,000 square feet of retail spaces. Any savvy businessman, company, etc who is reading this should contact Charles Gross of Phipps at 212-243-9090 ext 236. The new retail and commercial spaces available at Courtlandt Corners is an opportunity not to be missed since Melrose is after all the fastest growing neighborhood in the Bronx and the development's mixed low and middle income tenants should be enough of a draw as well.

A big Melrose THANK YOU goes out to Phipps Houses, Dattner Architects, Monadnock Construction, Commissioner Rafael E. Cestero, NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Ted Weinstein, Director of Bronx Planning for NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development and the many others who made this development possible.

Oh and a big Welcome2Melrose to all the new residents who will be occupying these lovely units! Be sure to contact us and let us know how your stories about living there and why you want to move to Melrose!

Ed García Conde
The "Mayor" of Melrose
http://www.welcome2melrose.com
themayor@welcome2melrose.com
347-92-MELRO

Comité Noviembre: A Celebration of Puerto Rican Culture & The Arts

2010-11-17T17:36:00.000-05:00

Hostos Community College will once again host Comité Noviembre's Annual Puerto Rican Artisan's Fair & Exhibit, a fun filled cultural experience celebrating the arts and culture of Puerto Rico as part of Puerto Rican Heritage Month. The event will be held this Saturday, November 20th from 11AM to 9PM and will be in the Hostos gymnasium.

Last year's event was a beautiful experience of sight and sound with so many Puerto Rican artisans displaying their creations with the cacophony of live music of traditional Bomba and Plena permeating the air. Several live performances evoked the traditional jibaro (affectionate term for a hick) life in Puerto Rico which is important to our culture as it was a time of a more self-sustaining culture living off the land - a simpler time compared to today's faced-paced cosmopolitan and metropolitan lifestyles that have invaded the island and are now pretty much the norm. This year's event promises to be just as exciting and enriching as last year's as well. This is a great opportunity for art lovers to purchase some beautiful pieces.

Check out our video from last year's event!

For Immediate Release

5th Annual Comité Noviembre Puerto Rican Artisans Fair & Exhibit

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2010

Hostos Community College - 450 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY

11AM – 9PM

The Puerto Rican Artisan Fair & Exhibit was established in 2006, in celebration of Comité Noviembre's, 20th anniversary. Over 40 artesanos puertorriqueños from throughout the US and Puerto Rico participated and the event boasted an attendance of over 5000 people in this very first Fair. Last year's Fair continued to exceed CN's expectations with over 60 artisans participating and a steady 5000 people.

The artisan fair this Saturday will include the following workshops:

• Taíno Storytelling by Bobby González

• Story of the 3 Kings and making of boxes and crowns by Teresa Santiago

• Wood Working. Making Santos de Palo by Marta Iris Rodriguez

• Spirituality and Taíno Petroglyph Art by Jose Muñoz

• Introduction to Puerto Rican Genealogy by Charlie Fourquet

Performing at the fair:

• Master percussionist Obanilu Allende and the son of world renowned singer Danny Rivera, Daniel Rivera, Jr.

For the past four years, CN has transformed, Hunter College West Building and the Church of St. Paul the Apostle into a typical Puerto Rican plaza with a fountain, palm trees, piragua and coquito carts and artists, sculptors, vejigante mask makers promoting and selling their wares while musical and cultural acts entertained throughout the day. This year will be no different at Hostos. CN will also continue to conduct cultural workshops for children and adults, like mask making, the history of the three kings’ celebration, Taíno storytelling in order to make sure that our youth learn about our culture.

This free fair is an opportunity to kick-off the holiday shopping season by supporting our artesanos.

For more information visit us online at: ComiteNoviembre.org. If you are on Twitter, follow us @comitenoviembre.

March and Rally to Combat Violence Against the Gay Community in New York

2010-11-16T13:24:00.003-05:00

This coming Saturday, November 20th, 2010, join forces with Welcome2Melrose, NYC LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Bronx Community Pride Center and numerous other organizations, LGBT community leaders and citizens and straight supporters in an historic event.
At 11AM we will begin to rally at Bronx Community College on University Avenue and West 181st Street then at Noon we will march to 1910 Osborne Avenue, the site of the brutal and horrific attacks on 3 individuals suspecting of being gay, for a prayer and then proceed to march to the steps of the Bronx County Courthouse on the Grand Concourse and East 161st Street to rally for a call to the end of anti-LGBT violence in the Bronx and the rest of New York.
I hope to see you there as this is not just a gay issue but it is a quality of LIFE issue for ALL Bronxites...we must rally together and call for an end to the violence in our communities. Whether you march down with us from Bronx Community College or you meet us at the Bronx County Courthouse, your support will greatly be appreciated.

See you there!

Click Image for Full INFO

La Fortaleza Spanish Restaurant In Melrose

2010-11-15T13:33:00.001-05:00

Does anyone remember the old La Fortaleza Spanish Restaurant which occupied the northeast corner of 3rd Avenue and East 156th Street?
Please do share your memories!

Drawings by Mexican Artist, Aurelio Del Muro On Display

2010-11-11T16:39:00.000-05:00

Coqui Mexicano, who is not just a restaurant in Melrose but a local cultural institution, will be hosting, "Drawings From the Story, "¿Un Anhelo?" - Aurelio Del Muro." The exhibit is curated Hatuey Ramos -Fermin who is a self-described multimedia artist.

Aurelio Del Muro has been living in New York for more than half his life since 1978 and is originally from the city of San Luis Potosi, Mexico and since 1983 has been expressed his art through various media including sculpture.

So come on out and taste the arts in Melrose starting tomorrow, Friday November 12, 2010 from 6PM to 8PM with an opening reception at Coqui Mexicano where the exhibit will be on display until December 6, 2010. Don't miss this great opportunity for having the arts brought into our community.

A big Melrose THANK YOU to Hatuey Ramos-Fermin for curating this exhibit and collaborating with Coqui Mexicano, one of Melrose's cultural gems.

Coqui Mexicano is located at

871 Brook Avenue

(at the intersection of East 161st and 3rd Avenue, across from the Old Bronx Courthouse)

Bronx, NY 10451

718-450-3477

coquimexicano@ymail.com

3rd Annual Prep School Fair - Gauchos Gymnasium

2010-11-10T13:57:00.000-05:00

It is with great pleasure that we announce that the Annual Prep School Fair, presented by Teamwork Foundation, will be held for the 3rd year now at Gauchos Gymnasium on Friday, November 12, 2010 between 6PM - 8PM. This will be a great opportunity for inner city students and their families to explore other options that they may otherwise not have known about and admission is FREE.
For those of you who are not aware, The New York Gauchos is considered to be the country's most successful AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) after-school basketball program. Teamwork Foundation, Inc, which runs the New York Gauchos, has been providing hundreds of inner-city youth with great opportunities that would not have been ordinarily made available to them.
Welcome2Melrose attended last year's fair and it was an amazing experience to see so many bright kids excited about opportunities that they never thought to be within their reach. So with that said, a big Melrose THANK YOU is in order for Teamwork Foundation for their continued selfless support of our very own future: our kids.

Gauchos Gymnasium is located at:

478 Gerard Avenue

(Between East 149th and East 146th Streets)

Bronx, NY 10452

(CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO ENLARGE)

"Doctor" Bob Lee of WBLS Live from Melrose At PeaceLove!

2010-11-09T13:13:00.000-05:00

"Doctor" Bob Lee, of 107.5 WBLS FM, joined Melrose residents for the station's morning show. Customers, as well as listeners of the station were treated to PeaceLove owner, Darada David's lovely voice belting out some tunes. Patrons of the establishment watched on while enjoying PeaceLove's famous Sweet Potato Pie which is made fresh by Darada herself.
WBLS FM and "Doctor" Bob Lee's presence at PeaceLove Cafe is a testament to what a great thing we have going on here in Melrose. The ONLY healthy food cafe in the South Bronx! Where else can you network with other Bronxites whilst listening to live jazz?
By the way...yet another local Melrose resident joins the ranks of Bronx entrepreneurs...I had the pleasure of meeting Melissa Quintero, a life long Melrose resident and a fan of welcome2melrose at PeaceLove this morning. Ms. Quintero happily told me that she will be opening a new business on 161st Street between Elton and Melrose Avenues in the Park View buildings. She mentioned that she expects to be up and running within 5 weeks. Welcome2Melrose will have more on that story in the coming weeks!
A big Melrose THANK YOU to "Doctor" Bob Lee and 107.5 WBLS FM for believing in PeaceLove and visiting us in Melrose!

"Doctor" Bob Lee enjoying a serving of Darada's awesome sweet potato pie...yeah it's that good

Lights..Camera...ACTION!!!!

2010-11-08T16:32:00.000-05:00

Local Bronx resident will be holding auditions for a short student film that will be aired on Bronx Net, our very own local cable access network. The craigslist listing is as follows and if you are interested in the listing you should respond ONLY to the craigslist email address and not welcome2melrose! Although if you do make that mistake, mayhaps I will forward it to the appropriate channels.

Two male actors are needed for a short student film that will be aired on Bronx Net (cable public access channel.)

The two men play grad students who endure a strained romance when their circumstances force them to stay in the closet.

There is no pay but you will be credited and given a copy of the DVD.

Age is somewhat flexible but we are aiming for late 20's. Any race or ethnicity. We are not looking for effeminate men but rather "regular" guys whose sexual orientation is not obvious.

You must be comfortable kissing the other man on the lips - no tongue.

You must be available to shoot in the Bronx on Saturday, 11/20, and Saturday, 11/27. Please note that 11/27 is on Thanksgiving weekend. Actors not available both of those dates should not audition.

Auditions will be held near The Hub (Third Avenue and East 149th in the Bronx) on Monday, 11/8, from 2:30 - 3:30 and on Wednesday, 11/10, from 6:30 - 7:30.

If you're interested in auditioning please e-mail your head shot and your acting resume if you have one. We will contact you with an audition time and the exact location.

Location: The Hub & Lehman College in the Bronx
Compensation: no pay but credit and a copy of the DVD
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
Please, no phone calls about this job!
Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.

BREAKING NEWS: BRONX DISTRICT ATTORNEY ADDRESSES BRONX LGBT COMMUNITY REGARDING RECENT ANTI-GAY HATE ATTACKS

2010-11-03T17:09:00.001-04:00

Bronx District Attorney, Robert T. Johnson held a meeting today at 3pm at his offices to speak with the Bronx LGBT community on the recent anti gay hate crime in the Bronx last month.
The meeting was convened after the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered leadership of the Bronx expressed extreme concern after charges were dropped for 3 of the suspects in the case of imprisonment and torture of 3 men suspected of being gay.
First thing Robert T. Johnson said was that he wanted to apologize for not reaching out to the Bronx LGBT Community when the case first happened. He also voiced his commitment to the LGBT community and everyone of the Bronx.
3 were dismissed because of lack of evidence against them, according to Mr. Johnson. One of the reasons they also decided to drop the charges were to create a level of trust with the jurors as well to show that a thorough investigation is being conducted.
He also went to note that the Anti Violence Project has had contact with the DA's office when the case occurred.
Mr. Lewis Goldstein, vice president of the New York State Democratic Committee as well as an openly gay man made a passionate speech praising Robert T. Johnson's decisions regarding this case as well as speaking highly of Mr. Johnson's commitment during his career. He also urged Mr. Johnson to work closely Bronx Community Pride Center to bring these talks to the schools to end the bullying epidemics.
Mr. Dirk McCall, executive director of Bronx Community Pride Center said that one of the biggest concerns with the dropping off the charges was the message to the rest of the community that is open season on members of the Bronx Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered community.
After several individuals spoke, the floor was opened for questions, several attendees expressed their frustration with the dropping of the charges on the 3 suspects. Francisco Lazala said that DA's office, "should have waited a little longer to gather more evidence against those individuals."
William Casari, Librarian at Hostos Community College asked Robert Johnson how strong was the evidence against the remaining 7 suspects to which Mr. Johnson replied that, "they're varying levels of evidence against each suspect" and that he's, "confident that overall it is pretty strong. "
Bronx Borough President, Ruben Diaz, Jr's staff was on hand to lend support to the LGBT community and express that his office is also outraged at the dropping of the charges.
Let's see where this goes from here people... after a two hour meeting there were many great ideas as well as concerns heard.
This is an exclusive welcome2melrose story and you heard it here FIRST.

Welcome2Melrose On The Recent Anti-Gay Attacks in The Bronx

2010-11-03T13:29:00.000-04:00

As you already know, Welcome2Melrose has joined forces with other Bronx Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered (LGBT) leaders to discuss as well as come up with solid solutions to the events of early last month in October where 3 individuals, suspected of being gay, were held captive and tortured.
On Monday night, I received a call from Gary Axelbank of BronxTalk, the longest running weekly talk show in New York City, so that I can come on the special one-hour show dedicated to the same issue and speak about being gay in the Bronx. Some of the show's guests were, Dirk McCall, Executive Director of Bronx Community Pride Center, the Bronx' main and only LGBT Center, Diane T. Ort, M.S., Deputy Chairperson, School of Criminal Justice at Monroe College and City Council Member, Annabel Palma of the 18th District in the Bronx. The show is a must watch as it brought together community leaders from different segments of society to discuss the conditions that may have led to the attacks as well as what we can do to prevent this from happening again - not just anti-gay attacks but anti-HATE attacks period.
Also, about a week ago, several Bronx LGBT leaders, including myself, congregated at PeaceLove Cafe to speak to the Mott Haven Herald on the same topic as well. Check out, yet, another informative piece on LGBT issues of the Bronx.
A big Welcome2Melrose THANK YOU is in order for Gary Axelbank and everyone at BronxTalk for putting together a wonderful show and a wonderful panel of guests on such a serious and important topic. The Bronx LGBT Community needs all the support we can get as well as outlets to let our voices be heard and what a better place than on BronxTalk.

A Call to End LGBT Bigotry and Hate Crimes in the Bronx

2010-10-26T11:17:00.000-04:00

Since the vicious and animalistic attacks on three Bronx residents because they were thought to be gay by the Latin Goonies, I have remained relatively silent on this blog...but let it be known that I have been furiously working together with other Bronx leaders of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community to come up with solutions.

For far too long, we have been disregarded by our very own Bronx leaders elected to serve US the people...EVERYONE, regardless of our backgrounds. The so-called "reverend", Senator Ruben Diaz, uses the guise of religion and the bible to declare homosexuality as a sin and an abomination but as I have said before, that same bible also says it is ok to own slaves as well as stone women. So, "Reverend" Ruben Diaz, by using your own logic, then it should be acceptable to you if you were enslaved?

He is not the only culprit - there are others as well. We, the LGBT are also to blame for being to quiet and have fallen into complacency. It is time for us to rise up and let the rest of the Bronx know that we are NOT going anywhere because this is OUR HOME TOO. The Bronx has the most number of gay families with children in the City of New York and perhaps the most in any county of the United States according the New York Times.. The Bronx is home to EVERYONE from every socio-economic background from the poorest of the poor in this country to some of the wealthiest in the country. We are a borough of extremes and in betweens. With so much diversity in such a small borough, we need to get along better REGARDLESS of what are views and backgrounds are.

So with that said, tonight, (Tuesday, October 26th) at 6PM on the steps of the Bronx County Courthouse on the Grand Concourse and 161st Street, join us, gay, straight, HUMAN BEING as we unite to tell our Bronx politicians and our neighbors that enough is enough and we are NOT going anywhere. Let's get along regardless of where we come from! I will join the masses along with Reverend Carmen Hernandez, founder of the Bronx based, New York City LGBT Chamber of Commerce - the City's FIRST and ONLY LGBT chamber, spoken word artist, Rob Vassilarkis aka Simply Rob, our very own Bronx based poet and advocate of LGBT issues and substance abuse. Check out a little bit of his story which is a great inspiration to all. That is only but a fraction of the LGBT Community which will be there so come and join us together as one Bronx Family.

Will you stand with me? Will you stand with us?

Another Melrose FIRST - Leading the City and State in Being Green!

2010-10-25T10:30:00.002-04:00

Once again, Melrose leads the rest of the City of New York in being green. Last Saturday at local High School Alfred E. Smith, the installation of a 1,400 square foot green roof began in what is considered to be the "...first officially approved Green Roof at a public school" according to NY1.
Read more about it and watch the video!
Congratulations again to Melrose residents for continuing to be the leaders in the Green Movement in the city and statewide!

"Pride" of Melrose

2010-10-22T16:24:00.001-04:00

Meet Pride, one of the four horses that help cops patrol Melrose. Pride has been "proudly" galloping the streets of Melrose for some time now and is 16 years old. Pride and Hennessey, who is 8 years old, can usually be seen around Melrose or at other times around Arthur Avenue. It was great to finally get to meet these two beauties up close and personal.

Local Melrose resident, gets up close and personal with Pride.

Hennessey (left) and Pride (right).

Rainbow Over Melrose

2010-10-01T18:20:00.002-04:00

Melrose was just treated to a full rainbow...not just any rainbow but a DOUBLE rainbow! Did you see it? Anyone else in Melrose or the Bronx see it? If so, please send in your pics to themayor@welcome2melrose.com !

Melrose Murals

2010-10-01T15:21:00.001-04:00

Heineken Mural at 3rd Avenue and 149th Street celebrating various aspects of Puerto Rican life and culture both here in NYC as well as back on the island. The Taino sun is beautifully depicted setting into the sea.
Although I appreciate that a mural was done for our people, I'm a little miffed that it had to be bastardized by the Heineken logo everywhere...time to start a new mural which mayhaps won't feature some corporate stamp all over it?

Melrose Murals

2010-09-30T11:34:00.001-04:00

East 151st @ Melrose Avenue

Before The Grand Concourse...

2010-09-29T12:38:00.001-04:00

... there was Mott Avenue. This picture is of the mosaic station name on the south bound 2/5 subway at 149th Street and Grand Concourse. This station really has some beautiful tile work that needs to be preserved. There are even tiles which read "UP TOWN" and "DOWN TOWN" from a time when the words were written separately and not like today's modern downtown and uptown.

Free Breakfast at Local Deli? What's the Catch?

2010-09-28T10:49:00.000-04:00

Well there is no catch - except that free breakfast was made available to anyone who walked in between the hours of 5:30AM to 11AM today for the grand opening of our newest night owl and 24 hour establishment, Star One Gourmet Deli.

Located on Melrose Avenue at the corner of East 152nd Street, Star One Gourmet Deli is the latest business to open its doors in Melrose. Over the last few weeks no less than 5 business have opened their doors for the first time to Melrose residents, not including Boricua College which opened up officially yesterday (more on that in a few).

Local residents were very impressed that a business was giving away free breakfast to local residents during such bleak economic times (a quick survey of the eager customers on line said they didn't believe last week's report that the recession was over since June of 2009).

Minerva Herrera of Melrose said that what Star One Gourmet Deli is doing today, "is a very beautiful thing in today's world and nice for their new customers." She went further on to say that she wishes them many beautiful and successful years.

"Welcome2Melrose" Star One Gourmet Deli! Great way to create a loyal customer base on your first day!

Here's to your success!

New customers patiently waiting for a rare treat - free breakfast!

Dr. Richard Izquierdo, Former Welcome2Melrose Person of The Year On Fox 5

2010-09-22T08:56:00.000-04:00

Tune in today or set your DVRs to catch former Welcome2Melrose Person of the Year, Dr. Richard Izquierdo, on Fox 5 at 9:15 AM. As you may remember, he founded a charter school which opened its doors this year, The Dr. Richard Izquierdo Health and Science Charter School - a first of its kind in New York State, focusing on providing students with a tract that will have high school students graduating with an EMT certificate and be able to immediately be gainfully employed upon graduation.

Congrats, Doc, on your success which in turn is our community's success!

Metro North Service Suspended between Grand Central Station and Well...the Rest of the Region

2010-09-20T12:37:00.000-04:00

Due to a fire at the 138th Street lift bridge between Manhattan and The Bronx, service is currently disrupted between Grand Central Station and the Bronx and beyond. So if you're traveling to Connecticut, Westchester County and areas up North (or from those areas and into Grand Central Station for that matter), make sure you stay tuned to your favorite local news station to keep up to date on when service will be restored.

Poverty Rate Paradox

2010-09-14T16:30:00.000-04:00

According to an interesting article posted yesterday in The Christian Science Monitor, although the poverty rate has increased, the crime rate has indeed fallen. This challenges the long-held assumption that there is a tie between high poverty rates and high crime rates. What do you think, fellow Melrose residents? Is there a strong tie? We do have, after all, the dubious distinction of living in the poorest congressional district in the country.

Welcome Home General Colin Powell

2010-09-13T20:56:00.000-04:00

On Thursday, September 9th, General Colin Powell attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new low-income cooperative apartments in Longwood bearing his name - The General Colin Powell Apartments. It was a proud day for Bronxites as we listened to him speak proudly of his Bronx years.

General Colin Powell, born in Harlem and raised on Fox Street in the Longwood neighborhood of the Bronx, entertained the crowd with stories of growing up in the South Bronx and the diversity of his neighborhood from the Puerto Rican bodega owners, the Jewish shopkeepers as well as West Indian and African-Americans all getting along in one neighborhood. He spoke of how in Europe in particular, people are most fascinated with the first chapter of his book "My American Journey", which dealt about the years he lived in the Bronx. General Powell even mentioned that before the advent of the Internet there was the "AuntNet" - the network of his aunts as well as local mothers who always looked out the apartment windows to look after the kids. He quipped that "...nothing traveled faster than information on the "AuntNet" when you got into trouble."

The General Colin Apartments (originally called the Fox-Legget Cooperative Apartments), located at 715 Fox Street, is a 50 unit cooperative project built with "sweat equity" as 12 of the 50 units were constructed by the unit's owners themselves in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity. It is also a platinum LEED certified green building in the tradition of the continued greening of the Bronx by developer Les Bluestone of BlueSea Development. As you may recall, Mr. Bluestone is the man behind the beautiful Eltona in Melrose which is also LEED certified as well as dozens of green townhomes in Melrose.

According to the press release issued by New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development some of the features of this project are:

Green roof that insulates and reduces storm water runoff
Co-generation system that produces electricity and hot water
Healthy indoor environment through non-toxic materials and controlled filtered ventilation systems
Educational materials for residents on green, healthy lifestyles
Decorative ironwork and lobby art pieces in honor of General Colin L. Powell by artist Béatrice Coron (who also designed the decorative ironwork for the Eltona)
Employment of ex-offenders for construction jobs through Wildcat Service Corp. and construction job training for graduates from Harlem Congregational Communities Inc.

Let's hope that the Bronx continues to lead the rest of New York State as the forefront of green housing and green initiatives! Don't believe that statement? Well did you know that Melrose is the ONLY Silver LEED Certified neighborhood in the ENTIRE State of New York?

A big Melrose THANK YOU to all who made these affordable possible, especially to BlueSea Development for their continued leadership in providing not only affordable housing, but QUALITY housing which we can all be proud of.

Photo Courtesy of HPD/HPD/L. Racioppo

General Colin Powell and The "Mayor" of Melrose

Photo Courtesy of BronxVibe

Welcome2Melrose Celebrates One Year Blogging!

2010-09-10T12:41:00.000-04:00

On September 10th, 2009, Welcome2Melrose was born and began bringing you all the best which Melrose has to offer. For so many years mainstream media as well as the rest of the world didn't talk about the great things the South Bronx in general has to offer so I had to take matters into my own hands.

This past year has been a wonderful journey which has brought me closer to you, the readers, Melrose residents and all Bronxites as well. Welcome2Melrose has received wonderful attention from traditional media such as The New York Times, News12 The Bronx, New York Magazine and even the Bronx' very own talk show, BronxTalk, hosted by Gary Axelbank. When Coqui Mexicano, our beloved local restaurant and cultural institution was in trouble, Welcome2Melrose broke the story and both the New York Times and the New York Daily News followed suit after reading about it here in Welcome2Melrose.

Going forward into the next year, look forward to many exciting changes and additions to Welcome2Melrose as we continue to expand in order to better serve our community and viewers alike. As always, we are open to your suggestions so do not hesitate in shooting us an email at themayor@welcome2melrose.com or calling us directly at 347-92-MELRO.

Thank you all once again for your support in this endeavor. It has been a great year and here's to many more to come!

Ghetto Film School in the News...

2010-09-07T12:33:00.000-04:00

Check out this article in the New York Times about this wonderful institution in neighboring Port Morris/Mott Haven. The Ghetto Film School has been around for the last ten years and is giving our great borough a chance to fulfill their dreams in the film industry. Great things are happening in the South Bronx!

Good Times at the 1st Ever Bronx Blogger Fiesta!

2010-09-01T15:49:00.002-04:00

I want to give a big thanks to all of you who showed up to the first ever Bronx Blogger Fiesta.

When Clarisel Gonzalez of Puerto Rico Sun Communications and Bronx Latino approached me about co-hosting this event, we did not know exactly where this was going to go and how it was going to end up. Well it went beyond my expectations. Being that this was the first event of its kind, the positive feedback which I received throughout the night told me that the beat must go on.

Tonight we tapped into only a fraction of the brain power, or as Lance Rios of Being Latino stated, "like-minded progressive people," that reside in The Bronx - can you imagine how much farther we can go if we continue this momentum?

The Bronx is a wonderful place which we love to call home. There are so many amazing places and great things to do in the Bronx but we are also not blinded to the darker side of life and the long way we have to go to restore the power and dignity our great borough once possessed. Together, if each and every one of us contributes whatever talents we possess into a larger pool, we can make a difference. Whether it's the passion of Tanya Fields who through grass roots activism is teaching local residents to take control of their environment and food supply, or Richard Izquierdo, MD (aka Doc) who has selflessly given back to his community of Hunts Point for almost 50 years through providing the best healthcare network in the South Bronx (and now first class education to the children of the South Bronx) it can be done. Each and every individual has started somewhere small and kept the momentum going.

Thank you once again for attending tonight's event and let's get to work - the borough we love, The Bronx, and its residents, our fellow neighbors, need our help.

A big special thanks to Gary Axelbank of BronxTalk and his wife Susan for also taking time out of their busy schedules and joining us. Jorge I. Montalvo...what can I say...you were amazing and thanks for happily volunteering as bartender...you were great and of course, Darada David, owner of PeaceLove Cafe for kindly donating the space for tonight's event!

Peace and Love,

Ed Garcia Conde

The "Mayor" of Melrose

Oh and the BoogieDowners sent their regrets for not being able to attend. They have their hands quite full with their lovely new addition!!!

Meet Your Local Bronx Bloggers!

2010-08-30T12:38:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow, Tuesday, August 31st at 6:30PM join Clarisel Gonzalez of Puerto Rico Sun Communications as well as Bronx Latino and Welcome2Melrose at PeaceLove Cafe as we celebrate Blogger's 11th Anniversary with the first ever Bronx Blogger Fiesta!

The Bronx Blogger Fiesta will be a meet and greet mixer with great networking opportunities. Entertainment will provided by none other than The Scheme, a great band self-described as, "6 men, 1 woman from all walks of life...with a collective soul."

Bronx Bloggers scheduled to be in attendance are (in no particular order):

Lance Rios, Being Latino

Nicole Perrino, Bronx Mama

Mike Callender, BronxMedia

Anthony Ramirez, II, From The Bronx

and many more!

Date: Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Time: 6:30PM

Location: PeaceLove Cafe

617 Melrose Avenue

Between E 151st and E 152nd Streets

Bronx, NY 10455

2/5 express trains to 3rd Avenue/149th Street

Melrose Milestones - PeaceLove Cafe Celebrates First Year Anniversary

2010-08-20T12:08:00.000-04:00

On a hot, summer day a year ago, I was walking up Melrose Avenue on my way home when I stumbled upon something strange and unfamiliar in Melrose and the South Bronx in general - a cafe. Of course, having lived in Manhattan for sometime down in the East Village as well as Kips Bay, this made me quite excited for this was one of those amenities I took for granted living downtown.

Who dared to dream so bold as to open not only a cafe but the FIRST healthy cafe in all of the Bronx? It was Darada David. It soon became a love affair being able to walk down one block and sit down for a cup of organic coffee or tea or knosh on some of her great dishes like Turkey, Avocado and Swiss Cheese Sandwiches, amazing and hearty soups like shrimp and salmon or simply the best Sweet Potato Pie this side of the Harlem River.

However, Ms. David didn't simply stop at just offering healthy food. She wanted to nourish not just the body but the mind and soul as well which is why PeaceLove opened up as a jazz cafe where you can sit down and listen to live music Fridays and Saturdays and also grab a mic and participate in the poetry slams which take place on Thursdays.

Since the opening of PeaceLove, it has become a local gathering place for people looking for an alternative to the unhealthy fast food options which overflow our neighborhoods. The atmosphere is always very relaxed and a change from the hustle and bustle of the street and Darada's welcoming smile makes walking in that much better.

A big HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to PeaceLove Cafe and may you have many, many more!

PeaceLove Cafe is located at:

617 Melrose Avenue

Between E151st and E152nd Streets

Bronx, NY

2/5 express train to 3rd Avenue/149th Street

walk up 2 blocks!

Update: Health Department Report On Closing of Popular Restaurant, Giovanni's

2010-08-18T22:02:00.001-04:00

Last week we reported one of the most popular restaurants in the area, Giovanni's, had been closed by the Department of Health. While on site, I asked several managers what was the reason that they were closed down and their answers ranged from, "...something broke in the kitchen" to "There is a gas leak and we got shut down." The real reason is what can only be described as a gross lack of sanitary conditions in such a popular restaurant.

According to New York City's Department of Health website the following violations were present at the time of inspection resulting in a whopping 78 violation points which resulted in the closing of Giovanni's:
==================================

Violations from 08/12/2010 Inspection

Tip! "Critical" violations are displayed in red.

Violation points: 78

Establishment Closed by DOHMH. Violations were cited in the following area(s) and those requiring immediate action were addressed.

Sanitary Violations
1) Cold food item held above 41º F (smoked fish and reduced oxygen packaged foods above 38 ºF) except during necessary preparation.
2) Food Protection Certificate not held by supervisor of food operations.
3) Raw, cooked or prepared food is adulterated, contaminated, cross-contaminated, or not discarded in accordance with HACCP plan.
4) Evidence of mice or live mice present in facility's food and/or non-food areas.
5) Live roaches present in facility's food and/or non-food areas.
6) Filth flies or food/refuse/sewage-associated (FRSA) flies present in facility’s food and/or non-food areas. Filth flies include house flies, little house flies, blow flies, bottle flies and flesh flies. Food/refuse/sewage-associated flies include fruit flies, drain flies and Phorid flies.
7) Food not protected from potential source of contamination during storage, preparation, transportation, display or service.
8) Food contact surface not properly washed, rinsed and sanitized after each use and following any activity when contamination may have occurred.
9) Facility not vermin proof. Harborage or conditions conducive to attracting vermin to the premises and/or allowing vermin to exist.
10) Non-food contact surface improperly constructed. Unacceptable material used. Non-food contact surface or equipment improperly maintained and/or not properly sealed, raised, spaced or movable to allow accessibility for cleaning on all sides, above and underneath the unit.
11) Other general violation.

Administrative Violations
1) Manufacture of frozen dessert not authorized on Food Service Establishment permit.

=======================

As you can clearly see from the above excerpt straight from NYC's DOHMH website, it was clearly not a "gas leak" as reported by one of the unidentified managers.

Clean your act up, Giovanni's! I wonder what Carmen Arroyo and other local elected officials who are constantly seen eating there think about this???

Rainbow Triumphs Even Through The Clouds and Rain

2010-08-17T11:42:00.000-04:00

The sporadic rain showers weren't enough to keep members of the Lesbian, Gay, Transgendered and Bisexual community of the Bronx from showing their colors yesterday. Sunday, August 15th, Bronx Community Pride Center, which is located in Melrose on East 149th Street between Brook and Bergen Streets, celebrated the annual Bronx Pride event this time at the beautiful Crotona Park.

Family and friends enjoyed a variety of entertainment by the lake including acts by 1980's Freestyle legend, Safire who had the crowd dancing, Bronx spoken word artist, Simply Rob of El Grito de Poetas, and drag sensation, Sahara Davenport a former contestant on the hit LOGO show, Ru Paul's Drag Race just to name a few.

The show was hosted by the lovely Appolonia Cruz and statuesque Tyra Allure and local Bronx politicians were on hand to offer inspiring words of support including in no particular order, Congressman Jose E. Serrano, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr, NYS Senators Jose M. Serrano (son of the congressman) and Ruth Hassell-Thompson. Even our own proud LGBT member, New York City Council Speaker, Christine Quinn was present to receive an award from Bronx Pride Community Center for her never-ending hard work on issues important to all New Yorkers including the LGBT Community. Assembly District Leader (80th A.D) Kenny Agosto, the first ever openly gay politician from the Bronx was also on hand to enjoy the day's celebration.

This pride was also special as Dirk McCall, of BCPC, celebrated his first Bronx Pride as Executive Director of the center. He recently took the reigns and is working hard along with all the staff of BCPC to make sure that the LGBT community of the Bronx and their needs are served. Over the next few months, keep your eye on Bronx Community Pride Center for many positive changes to come which with through the great work of Deputy Executive Director David Matthews on the team as well will put the Bronx on the map yet again.

A big Welcome2Melrose THANK YOU to Bronx Community Pride Center for making Bronx Pride 2010 the best one yet! Keep up the great work!

Bronx Borough President, Ruben Diaz, Jr. with NYS Senator Jose M. Serrano and Congressman Jose E. Serrano

Bronx Academy of Art and Dance

Weekend of Wellness Begins Today in Melrose

2010-08-13T13:27:00.000-04:00

Starting today, My Wellness Solutions, a new holistic and wellness center, is celebrating a "Weekend of Wellness". According to a press release it is, "the first holistic and wellness center of its kind in the Bronx..." and they are committed to assisting in improving the overall health of the community.

"Now opened for 2 months in the HUB area of the Bronx, we have witnessed dozens of Bronx residents improve their health with the natural health services offered by My Wellness Solutions," says center owner, Indhira V. Santana and to date by far the most popular package, "is the Weight Loss Package which includes a series of Colon Hydrotherapy treatments."

My Wellness Solutions also features a Juice Therapy Bar and a variety of organic foods along with many natural and herbal supplements. The center itself is not to be missed as architect, Bryon Russell of Syndicate Group of Companies did a pretty impressive job of making sure the space was something different than the norm giving you the feeling that you've entered a place that was well-thought out and a labor of love.

Make sure you stop by today or any time this weekend and get your complimentary 30 minute Ionic Foot Detox - a $30 value! While you're there, take a look around at all the products and services which they offer including body work such as Exfoliating Glow, Aromatherapy Meltdown and Anti-Stress Therapy.

A big WELCOME 2 MELROSE to My Wellness Solutions, Indhira Santana and her staff!

My Wellness Solutions is located at

3044 Third Avenue Between 156th and 157th Streets

Bronx, NY 10451

718-992-7741

info@mywellnesssolutions.com

Local Restaurant Shut Down By The Department of Health

2010-08-12T23:45:00.000-04:00

Welcome2Melrose received the tip from local Concourse resident, William C., that Giovanni's restaurant - a local favorite Italian eatery at 579 Grand Concourse and East 150th street, was shut down by the Department of Health.

A walk over to the popular bar and restaurant did indeed the show that the gates had come down and that the DOH had placed the bright yellow, "CLOSED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH" stickers of death on two of the restaurant's entrances. When two different individuals were asked why they were shut down, two very different answers were given. One older gentleman did try to block me from taking a picture of the signs and he also claimed that "something" had broken in the kitchen. Another man at the entrance on the Concourse simply stated that they were shut down because of a "gas leak". Now we all know that Con Edison would have been on the scene not the Department of Health.

According to New York City's Department of Health website, the last inspection of Giovanni's was on 8/2/2010 and were cited for 3 violations for a total of 17 violation points. 2 of the 3 violations were considered critical and highlighted by red text which read as follows:

Sanitary Violations

1) Cold food item held above 41º F (smoked fish and reduced oxygen packaged foods above 38 ºF) except during necessary preparation.

2) Evidence of mice or live mice present in facility's food and/or non-food areas.

Once a restaurant has been inspected by DOH and have received several critical violations, inspectors will return to see if the situation has been remedied which leaves one to wonder what else did they find upon their second visit? Busboys and staff were scrambling inside vacuuming and cleaning up the restaurant but as I got closer to take a picture, the gates were lowered.

Comments anyone?

With Little Fanfare, Boricua Village's Residences at Northrose Are Open

2010-08-12T09:27:00.000-04:00

In what has been one of the Bronx's most anticipated residential construction project, Boricua Village is now welcoming its first residents at the Northrose, the project's 400 luxury, middle-income apartments. According to the leasing office, the new residents have been moving in slowly over the past couple of weeks, however, the mega-project is still far from complete. There are several buildings still under construction, the interior public and private gardens are not anywhere near completion and none of the retail spaces have yet to be filled.
On the other note, Boricua College has begun filling in their new sparkling, 14 story tower with classes scheduled to begin this fall.
Anyone living there yet care to make a comment on the building and apartments? Are the promised amenities completed?

Great kitchen space...tons of cabinets

Modern bathroom with glass tile backsplash and wainscotting

Still under construction, this building sits behind Boricua College

Boricua College 99% complete

From Urban Blight to Urban Bright

2010-08-04T14:54:00.000-04:00

The New York Post has declared that the, "Bronx is Burning, but in a different way" echoing what we already knew and what the BoogieDowners have been saying for a long time. Check out what they have to say regarding our lovely neighbors on the Concourse bordering Melrose to the West. Another great reason why Melrose and the general area is a great place to live!

Mill Pond Park

2010-07-26T13:06:00.002-04:00

Mill Pond Park, our waterfront park across the Gateway Center Mall has proven a hit with local residents. Just ask fellow Melrose resident, Luis Rodriguez and his son Kato who were out enjoying the sunshine on their rollerblades.
Ed García Conde
The "Mayor" of Melrose
347-92-MELRO
http://www.welcome2melrose.com

PeaceLove Goes Latin With South American World Grooves By Mucho Axé - Tonight!

2010-07-23T16:22:00.000-04:00

Tonight, Friday July 23rd, come to PeaceLove Cafe to enjoy the soothing latin sounds of Mucho Axé, a band which self describes its music as South American World Groves with an impressive array of genres such as Samba, Tango, Ska and Mambo to name a few. Check out their website for more information as well as some samples of their original works and covers.

Can't wait to enjoy a little bit of South America right in the heart of Melrose - the greatest neighborhood in the best borough of NYC - THE BRONX!!!! Come support a great local and cultural establishment who promotes the arts from all walks of life - PEACELOVE!

PeaceLove Cafe

617 Melrose Avenue

(between East 151st and East 152nd Streets)

Bronx, NY

Tel: 347-577-6397

#2 and #5 express trains to 3rd Avenue/East 149th Street and just two blocks up!

5 Foot Snake Caught Roaming in Melrose!

2010-07-20T14:22:00.001-04:00

Just when you thought you'd heard it all before, a snake was caught by local police on East 161st Street around 1am this morning according to the Daily News.
The snake was discovered by a startled gas station attendant who said the snake was hissing at them.

Ed García Conde
The "Mayor" of Melrose
347-92-MELRO
http://www.welcome2melrose.com

Hot in Melrose!

2010-07-06T15:21:00.001-04:00

It's 100° outside...how are you coping with the heat? Send in your pics!

Third Avenue Festival

2010-06-28T10:35:00.000-04:00

Thousands of people came out in the heat yesterday to enjoy the Third Avenue Festival here in Melrose.

There were many different activities and vendors for all family members to have fun including a petting zoo!

Assurance Wireless was also on hand to help sign up qualifying low income individuals for free cell phone service and dozens of people people stood in line for a chance at a free lifeline.

Did you attend the festival? Got pics you wanna share with us? Send them to themayor @ welcome2melrose.com!

Coqui Mexicano In The Daily News - AGAIN!

2010-06-09T23:17:00.000-04:00

(Picture Credit: Chu for Daily News)

Local Melrose Resident and Coqui Mexicano enthusiast, Luis Rodriguez, notified Welcome2Melrose that the much loved restaurant was featured in the Daily News today. This is the second time in two months that Coqui Mexicano was featured for a story in the Daily News!

The New York Times, Daily News...and of course Welcome2Melrose and our residents know it's a great place...what are YOU waiting for to stop in and see what all the fuss is about????

Congratulations to Diego and Danisha for showing the world how a business SHOULD be run...WITH HEART AND SOUL!

Smooth Pickin's at PeaceLove Café

2010-06-09T12:59:00.001-04:00

Smoothies are now available at PeaceLove...perfect timing now that the weather is getting warmer! All smoothies are made from the freshest and healthiest ingredients and are absolutely yummy!

Also don't forget to try the turkey, swiss, avocado sandwich...such a decadent yet healthy eat!

As always, live poetry every Thursday and live jazz every Friday and Saturday evening.

PeaceLove Café
617 Melrose Avenue
Between E 151st & E 152nd Streets
Bronx, NY
2 or 5 trains to 3rd Ave/E 149th Street
347-577-6397

Melrose Murals

2010-06-02T13:49:00.000-04:00

Located on Melrose Avenue between East 162nd and 163rd Streets.
Good Times! More on the location of this mural as it is the site of rapid turnover rate of murals...almost on a monthly basis by local graffiti artists.

Boricua College Update

2010-05-26T13:35:00.001-04:00

Things are now moving very quickly at Boricua College in the new Boricua Village complex. Lettering has been placed on the building as well as a banner for enrollment.
More to come on this soon!

Former Melrose Person of The Year In This Week's Crain's!

2010-05-23T17:43:00.000-04:00

Dr. Richard Izquierdo (not to be confused by the embattled Richard Izquierdo Arroyo - grand son of New York State Assemblywoman Carmen E. Arroyo and nephew of City Councilwoman Maria del Carmen Arroyo) was the feature of a Crain's New York article today on the realization of his dream to create a charter school to train the future health care practitioners of the future - right here in our borough. The Dr. Richard Izquierdo Health and Science Charter School will be opening its doors this September 2010 school year with its first class of 6 graders.

Doc, as Dr. Richard Izquierdo is known by the community, was the 2009 Welcome2Melrose Person Of The Year and through his hard work over the last 50+ years has transformed the landscape of health care in the South Bronx.

A big Melrose THANK YOU to Dr. Izquierdo for his continuous hard work to bring quality health care to our people as well as helping empower our youth through education.

Residents Invited to Register for Free Cell Phone Program for Low Income Families

2010-05-15T16:42:00.006-04:00

Assurance Wireless, a new cell phone service operating under the Sprint Prepaid division, will be on hand tomorrow, Sunday May 16th from 1pm - 6pm at the "The Shops at Gateway" at the Gateway Center Mall offering low income individuals the opportunity to have a cell phone with 200 free minutes a month. Andrew de Lara, with Corporate Communications/PR at Sprint Nextel put it best by saying:

"We really see this as an opportunity to make those less fortunate aware of this valuable resource – one that can change the lives of people in the Bronx who need a little help getting back on their feet. We recognize that a cell phone is crucial in getting back in the job market (potential employers do need to get in touch with candidates and such – and they still need to stay connected with their loved ones)."

There are several ways one can qualify for this free cell phone service some which are:

Medicaid
SMAP (food stamps),
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) or Section 8
Low Income Housing Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
National School Lunch Program’s Free Lunch Program

Let's take this opportunity to give a big Melrose THANK YOU to all at Sprint Nextel for this wonderful opportunity to the people of The Bronx. It's about time that someone does something for the poorest congressional district in the entire country!

Full Press Release:

***MEDIA ALERT***

ASSURANCE WIRELESS TAKING APPLICATIONS AT GRAND OPENING OF “THE SHOPS AT GATEWAY”

Residents Invited to Register for Free Cell Phone Program for Low Income Families

WHAT:	Assurance Wireless will be in attendance taking applications for low income eligible residents to receive a free cell phone and service and on hand for interviews during the Grand Opening of “The Shops” at the Gateway Center. Assurance Wireless is a new cell phone service for eligible low-income households from Virgin Mobile USA, part of Sprint’s Prepaid group. Eligible New York State residents can receive a free cell phone and 200 free minutes of air time for local and long distance calling every month. Eligibility can be determined by calling Assurance Wireless at 888-898-4888 and more information is available at www.assurancewireless.com. Generally, those receiving Medicaid, SMAP (food stamps), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) or Section 8, Low Income Housing Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), or the National School Lunch Program’s Free Lunch Program may be eligible for Assurance Wireless. Customers may also qualify based on household income and Federal poverty guidelines. Eligibility varies by state.
WHEN:	Sunday May 16, 2010 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
WHO:	Kenneth Poindexter, Assurance Wireless Relationship Manager
WHERE:	Shops at Gateway 3rd Avenue 149th-156th Street Bronx, NY
MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:	Interview and photo opportunity during grand opening with: · Kenneth Poindexter, Assurance Wireless Relationship Manager
CONTACT:	Onsite: Ken Poindexter – 703-731-4947 Ken.Poindester@BoostMobile.com Media Contact – Assurance Wireless Jack Pflanz – 315-374-0693 Jack.Pflanz@Sprint.com

Residents Invited to Register for Free Cell Phone Program for Low Income Families

2010-05-15T16:41:00.001-04:00

Assurance Wireless, a new cell phone service operating under the Sprint Prepaid division, will be on hand tomorrow at the "The Shops at Gateway" at the Gateway Center Mall offering low income individuals the opportunity to have a cell phone with 200 free minutes a month. Andrew de Lara, with Corporate Communications/PR at Sprint Nextel put it best by saying:

"We really see this as an opportunity to make those less fortunate aware of this valuable resource – one that can change the lives of people in the Bronx who need a little help getting back on their feet. We recognize that a cell phone is crucial in getting back in the job market (potential employers do need to get in touch with candidates and such – and they still need to stay connected with their loved ones)."

There are several ways one can qualify for this free cell phone service some which are:

Medicaid
SMAP (food stamps),
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) or Section 8
Low Income Housing Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
National School Lunch Program’s Free Lunch Program

Coqui Mexicano Makes It To the New York Times!

2010-05-11T19:31:00.002-04:00

What can our Melrose community do for you? Well for starters if one of our own is in trouble we can all get together, make some ruckus and help save them! That's exactly what we did when we found out that Coqui Mexicano was served with an eviction notice. Thanks to all who rallied the troops like The Bronx Defenders, The South Bronx Food Cooperative, Welcome2Melrose and local elected officials enough noise was made and now they have the attention of the world through the great piece by Sam Dolnick of the New York Times. First it was the New York Daily News and News12 The Bronx who picked up the the story from Welcome2Melrose

For those of you not familiar with Mr. Dolnick's writings, he was the one who quoted the phrase the "Bronx Paradox" a few months ago which prompted the Food Revolution in the Bronx lead by Bronx Borough President, Ruben Diaz, Jr. during May 1st's first ever Bronx Food Summit.

Let's all give a round of applause for each and every one who came out to show support for the little big guys!

Melrose Just Got Greener - El Jardin De Selene Is Officially Open

2010-05-06T15:07:00.001-04:00

One of the most long awaited developments in Melrose, El Jardine de Selene is now officially open. The LEED-Gold (certification pending and was originally designed to achieve a Silver certification but they since bumped it up) development is a mixed-use, mixed-income affordable housing development with a healthy mix of 84 units ranging from studios to two-bedroom units.

The beautiful 12 story tower, one of the tallest in Melrose, resonates with the Bronx' rich art deco architectural history . El Jardin de Selene provides residents with plenty of outdoor space and it's design floods the building with natural light. Units on the higher levels even boast 3 exposures - a rarity in any type of construction these days. A large green roof on the 9th floor provides residents with views of the Bronx and NYC skyline while sitting amongst local and native fauna. Further down the building on the 2nd Floor is a larger outdoor courtyard also landscaped with native fauna and has direct access via the community room or the laundry room. The laundry room itself is a treat for the residents as it features "green" appliances - and plenty of them as well as floor to ceiling windows providing tons of sunlight.

And not to be left behind in the "green wars" (The Eltona back in October 2009, opened with 10 windmills on its roof and achieved a LEED PLATINUM Certification) of Melrose as each new development tries to outdo the other, El Jardin de Selene has solar panels on its roof top to power the building's common areas, bamboo flooring and wheatboard cabinetry in all units and daylight and occupancy sensors in the common areas.

A big Melrose THANK YOU is in order to all who made this development possible including, Nos Quedamos, Magnusson Architecture and Planning, PC, MJM Construction Services, LLC and Melrose Associates! Keep up the great work in making our neighborhood the GREENEST neighborhood in the all of New York State!

Manny Kanaris, Principal of MJM Construction Services, LLC showing us the solar panels on the rooftop.

Melrose Avenue Facing North - View from the 12th Floor

View of Melrose Facing North - Boricua College and Village in the distance

"The Price is Life" - Opening Reception Today At LDR Studio Gallery

2010-05-05T12:51:00.000-04:00

I had the of attending a semi-private tour of "The Price is Life" at the LDR Studio Gallery in Port Morris and I have to say that it is one of the most intense works of art that I have seen so far this year in the Bronx. The exhibit, which opens today from 5:30PM to Midnight is not one to be missed and is curated by Luis D. Rosado.
==============================================

LDR Studio Gallery is proud to present

"The Price is Life"

May 5th, 2010 Opening Reception

5:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.

curated by: Luis D. Rosado

The duo comprised of Dude & Magnus have devised an infinite canvas which they call Conspiracy Theatre--a vehicle they use to invite a change to the apathy and mass confusion of our dying nations. They seek to learn, educate and inspire through their creations revisiting the theme of 'each one teach one.'

Dude was born in the Bronx and raised all over New York. He has been creating art since the age of 5. It was then that his palette for reality itself widened beyond his ability to express it and to this day he strives to blend his knowledge of the worlds around him with the grace of his art. Through the clarity and purity of science and logic he searches for ultimate wisdom. As he sometimes refers to himself, he simply considers himself a visiting Vulcan accented by a Jigsaw Picasso.

Magnus the other half of this duo was born and raised in Union Zoo of the "Dirty Jerz," an industrial suburban town where no one ever leaves. His environment forced him to examine his own path. While exploring his fate to suffer he chose to be guided by his inner conscious to a higher existence. Forging a new path he broke out to New York to begin his career as a tattoo artist. Since then his goal has been to create life enhancing art which provokes epiphanies in sleeping minds and expands the mass human consciousness.

http://www.bronxarts.org/culture_trolley.asp

Directions to 137 Alexander Ave, between 134th st & Bruckner Blvd:

Subway:
Take 6 train to 138th St./3rd Ave. and exit on 138th St. and Alexander Ave.
Walk south on Alexander Ave until you get to 134th St.
The building is on Alexander Ave. between 134th St. & Bruckner Blvd.
It's the first building on the right hand side of the street.

Driving from Manhattan:
Go to E. 125th St. & 1st Ave. and take the Willis Avenue Bridge.
Continue on Willis Avenue and take the ramp to Bruckner Blvd.
Turn left at Bruckner Blvd. Turn right at Alexander Ave. The building
will be on your left hand side on Alexander Ave. in between 134th St.
& Bruckner Blvd.

NY Daily News Picks Up A Welcome2Melrose Exclusive!

2010-05-05T10:39:00.001-04:00

Welcome2Melrose first told you about our beloved Coqui Mexicano being served with eviction papers a few weeks ago. Since then, the story was picked up by numerous local and citywide outlets including our great friends at the BoogieDowner, The New York Times and now the Daily News!

Let's keep up the great work, Melrose, in representing our people!

City Officials Break Ground at Via Verde

2010-05-04T13:15:00.000-04:00

The usual brass was on hand today at the official ground breaking ceremony in Melrose for the ambitious and long awaited Via Verde (spanish for "Green Way") development. Attending the ceremony was Secretary Shawn Donovan, the 15th Secretary for Housing and Urban Development of the United States, Council Speaker, Christine Quinn, Bronx Borough President, Ruben Diaz, Jr (as well as his notorious father, State Senator, Ruben Diaz), Congressman Jose E. Serrano and of course, New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg. The event was coordinated to coincide with HPD and HDC celebrating the financing of 100,000 affordable units - a milestone towards the 165,000 units goal.

Although there was much excitement in the crowd, not everyone was thrilled with the ground-breaking of Via Verde. The union rats were in full force on display outside the tent where the ceremony was held with chants from the union workers of, "BLOOMBERG - DO THE RIGHT THING" over and over again, unhappy about the lack of union jobs for the project. The chants began during Bronx Borough President, Ruben Diaz, Jr's speech to which he said, "They chose to start as I started to speak - but they have a right to have their voices heard and practice freedom of speech."

The $99 million mixed-income rental and homeownership Via Verde is an exciting "green" project developed by Phipps Houses and Jonathan Rose Companies, in partnership with Dattner Architects and Grimshaw Architects which will offer residents approximately 40,000 square feet of open space and is designed to achieve LEED Gold designation.

Some of the features that residents will come to enjoy are:

3 different unit types, a tall 20 story tower with views of Downtown Bronx and Manhattan Skyline, midrise duplex apartments and townhome style dwellings
Solar panels will power Via Verde's common areas
Rainwater will be harvested to irrigate the vegetable and fruit gardens that will be available to residents to grow food.
All 221 units will have cross-ventilation and solar shading to cool off the units more efficiently during summer months.
34,000 square feet of planted green roofs to create "sky gardens" for the enjoyment of its residents.

Construction is expected to be completed in 2012. This is yet another big win for the Bronx and our great neighborhood of Melrose where we continue to lead the City and State in what it means to be GREEN!

Congressman Jose E. Serrano

Council Speaker Christine Quinn

The "Mayor" of Melrose with New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg

Meet the "Mayor" of Melrose at the Bronx Food Summit

2010-04-30T10:19:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow, Saturday May 1st you can meet me, the "Mayor" of Melrose as well as a bunch of other great Melrose residents, business owners (such as Darada David of PeaceLove Cafe)and Bronxites as well at the first ever Bronx Food Summit at Hostos Community College from 9AM - 5PM.

Please come meet members of the South Bronx Food Cooperative, which is located right here in Melrose, who will be facilitating the following workshop from 11:45am - 12:45pm:

CLASSROOM 462What is a food co-op and why are they important?
South Bronx Food Cooperative
Not exactly sure what a food cooperative is and how it can benefit you and your community? Come and find out exactly what a cooperative is, how it functions as well as how it is integrated into the very fabric of our communities. Learn the difference between a cooperative and your traditional bodegas and supermarkets as well as how you can take control of where your food comes from.

And from 2:30pm - 3:30pm you can come and listen to me speak on the following Panel Discussion:

Afternoon Panel Discussion #1: C-390 STUDENT LOUNGEHealthy Food Now! Exploring Food "Deserts" and Alternative Solutions for Bronx Communities
Moderator: Paula Lukats, CSA in NYC Program Manager, Just Food
Panelists: Kim Latimer-Nelligan, Chief Operating Officer, Low Income Investment Fund; Kate Scallion, Food and Fitness Business Development Coordinator, NYC EDC; Ed Garcia, Board of Directors President, South Bronx Food Cooperative; Christina Grace, Manager Urban Food Systems Program, NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets; Robert Volosin, Chief Operating Officer, Inner City Development
A food "desert" is defined as a specific area lacking access to healthy food options due to a shortage of supermarkets and places to buy fresh food. In place of supermarkets and places to by fresh food, there's an abundance of fast food chains, dollar stores and bodegas selling highly processed, poor quality food. Many health care professionals believe there's direct relationship between the lack of access to healthy fresh food, too many fast food chains and obesity and diabetes. Hear directly from supermarket developers, policymakers, CSA organizers, and Food Coop owners about the issue and the solutions.

or you can attend the following workshop from 2:30pm to 3:30pm and meet Darada David, owner and operator of Melrose favorite, the healthy PeaceLove Cafe:

Afternoon Workshop #5: CLASSROOM 454Bronx Flavors: The Television Show!
Facilitator(s): Baron Ambrosia, Culinary Ambassador and host of Bronx Flavor; Darada David, owner of Peace Love Café; Sybil, H.I.M. Italian Restaurant
Have you ever seen the show Bronx Flavor? Meet Baron Ambrosia, creator and producer of this TV show featuring the many different flavors of Bronx culture and the foods we eat. Learn about one restaurant that’s keeping it real with fresh, healthy ingredients.

Bronx Food Summit Schedule:

9:00 - 10:00 am: Registration

10:00 - 11:30 am: Opening CeremoniesWelcome
Dr. Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, Hostos Community College President
Ruben Diaz Jr., Bronx Borough President
Special Guest Remarks

Keynote Speaker
Majora Carter, MacArthur “Genius” Fellow

11:45 - 12:45 pm: Morning Workshop Sessions

12:45 - 02:15 pm: Lunch

2:30 - 03:30 pm: Afternoon Workshop Sessions

3:45 - 04:15 pm: Celebrity Panel Discussion: "Growing Up in the Bronx - Food, Health and Family”
Kurtis Blow
Melle Mel from the Furious 5
Popmaster Fabel from The Rock Steady Crew
Rosa Clemente, Journalist, Radio Host and 2008 Vice Presidential Candidate (Green Party)
Joe Conzo, Hip Hop Celebrity Photographer, Co-Contributor "The Bronx is Burning"
Byron Hurt, Documentary Filmmaker "Soul Food Junkie" and "Beyond Beats and Rhymes"
David Greco, "Godfather of Parmigiana" (Bronx's Little Italy)
Annie Novak, Co-Founder of Eagle Street Rooftop Farm

04:30 - 05:00 pm: ReadNex Youth Squad poetry performance (Lunchroom)

A Community Saves A Local Restaurant From Eviction

2010-04-28T17:26:00.000-04:00

The much loved neighborhood establishment, Coqui Mexicano, has been SAVED! After a court date yesterday to appeal the unexpected eviction notice, community support including letters from local congressman Jose E. Serrano, and Henry Weinstein (owner of the old Bronx courthouse) to name a few, helped save the restaurant from closure.

After much persuasion and the show of overwhelming support from the community, the landlord caved in and generously offered a 6 month payment plan that met the needs of Coqui Mexicano.

News12 the Bronx was at Coqui Mexicano yesterday as well as the Daily News to cover the story which was first heard here and picked up by our friends, the BoogieDowners. The broadcast appeared last night on Bronx Cablevision channel 12 at 10pm.

Furthermore, a writer from the New York Times was there today to write about Coqui after hearing what was going on from welcome2melrose.

So alas, a neighborhood came together to shout out to the world in unison that we were not gonna let one of our own go down without a fight.

A big Melrose THANK YOU to all who came out in support of COQUI MEXICANO! ¡ÓRALE WEPA GÜEY!

BREAKING NEWS - Motorcyclist Hit by Truck on Third Avenue

2010-04-27T20:44:00.000-04:00

Paramedics as well as police from the 40th precinct raced to the intersection of Third Avenue and East 158th Street responding to an accident involving a motorcyclist and a medium sized construction crane truck.

Witnesses say that the biker had the right of way as he was on East 158th Street crossing Third Avenue when the truck sped by causing the motorcyclist to crash into the truck and slide underneath. I myself was at the South Bronx Food Cooperative and saw the accident as it happened.

"The truck driver definitely ran the light, the motorcycle had the right of way," said local resident, Michelle Smith who witnessed the accident. Another witness who wished to remain anonymous agreed with Ms. Smith and said that the trucker ran the light.

The driver of the truck, who only identified himself as "Jimmy D" of ProBuild said, "The only statement that I want to give is that I'm glad he's alive," as he referred to victim.

The victim, who was unidentified, was taken to Lincoln Hospital and paramedics on the scene said that he is in pain with a possible fracture to his arm but in stable condition.

Reporting LIVE from the scene,

Ed Garcia Conde
"The Mayor of Melrose"
http://www.welcome2melrose.com
themayor@welcome2melrose.com
347-92-MELRO (347-926-3576)

Witnesses and passerbys assist the victim and call 911.

Paramedics lifting victim onto a strecher.

"Jimmy D", of ProBuild who was driving the truck at the time

of the accident gazes into the distance.

Witnesses and onlookers gathered as the paramedics arrived on the scene.

A Neighborhood Unites to Protect One of Its Own

2010-04-26T12:49:00.002-04:00

A little over a week ago the cultural soul of Melrose received an eviction notice - Coqui Mexicano, which in less than two years since it opened has become not just a restaurant but a myriad of things to a people as diverse as its offerings.

Melrose residents have long enjoyed frequenting Coqui Mexicano, or Coqui as it is affectionately known by locals, not just for the deliciously healthy and affordable food which they offer (yes - it sounds like an oxymoron that a Puerto Rican/Mexican fusion establishment can be considered healthy but alas it is achieved through the use of high quality ingredients, including the use of olive oil in all recipes instead of the lard and artery clogging oils that other restaurants in the area use) but they also come for the live music which spontaneously, without warning just comes together or for the free literacy project which Danisha, the coqui aspect of the name, started to combat the dearth of bookstores in our area.

Coqui also is a community dining room where friends converge and discuss anything from politics to love and just life in general so it was with great shock to the residents and family - for all who come here are considered to be part of an extended family, that they were on the verge of losing their beloved restaurant.

This past Friday, April 23rd, patrons including Henry Weinstein, owner of the beloved "Old Bronx Courthouse" and Fred Connelly of Real Estate Financing, Inc. (REFI) and members of the South Bronx Food Cooperative all converged to raise funds for Coqui and was organized by the Bronx Defenders (the non-profit 501 (c)(3) public defenders located in Melrose) who are always fighting for the underdogs of the South Bronx. For an organization always representing the little guys they truly were there, en masse, vowing that all will fight for the survival of Coqui Mexicano.

Just as positive things are happening in the neighborhood with residents of Jardines de Seline moving in (the first development with mixed, low and middle-income units), the 400 middle-income apartments of the 700 unit Boricua Village called Northrose scheduled to begin occupancy beginning June 2010 through August 2010 and Courtlandt Corners, another massive project of 343 units of mixed, low and middle income units as well beginning occupancy around October 2010 residents are concerned that this may be a sign of things to come otherwise known as the dreaded "g" word: gentrification. Many were quick to comment that it all seems too big of a coincidence that they receive the eviction notice just when almost a 1,000 new units are about to come online within the next 6 months and not to mention that business had picked up at Coqui considerably.

In the meantime, locals will continue to rally alongside Coqui Mexicano and fight to make sure cultural gem of Melrose remains open and for those of you who have yet to taste what it's all about, come on down and step into our kitchen.

Oh and don't forget to sign the online petition! It literally takes less than 1 minute to do so!

Where:
Coqui Mexicano
871 Brook Avenue (where Third Avenue meets 161st Street and Across from the Old Bronx Courthouse)
Bronx, NY 10451
718-450-3477

When:
Mon-Fri, 7:30AM to 6PM
Sat, 8AM - 6PM
Sun, CLOSED

Proud Owners, Diego and Danisha

Henry Weinstein, owner of the Old Bronx Courthouse

speaks with Diego

Check out this book by a former trial chief of the Bronx Defenders available at a great price only from Amazon.com.
By purchasing this book through Amazon.com via welcome2melrose you are supporting this great blog you've come to love!

Bronx Food Summit - May 1st, 2010

2010-04-21T17:27:00.001-04:00

In response to The New York Times article which coined the phrase the "Bronx Paradox", when referring to the dichotomy of South Bronx residents being one of the most obese in the country as well as the hungriest in the nation, Ruben Diaz, Jr immediately responded to the statement by starting the Bronx Food Summit.

The Bronx Food Summit, which is to be held on May 1st, 2010 at Hostos Community College, is an all-day event starting at 9am and ending at 5pm which will connect Bronxites with food justice advocates, schools, community organizations and businesses to have a discussion on what options are available to our borough's residents for healthier eating. Information will be disseminated through various hands-on workshops and seminars and as an incentive to invite more Bronxites, a FREE HEALTHY LUNCH will be provided.

I know everyone is probably saying, healthy eating in the Bronx? Well let's not forget three Melrose favorites: PeaceLove Cafe, the first health food cafe in the South Bronx (let's not forget their poetry slams on Thursdays and live jazz on Fridays and Saturdays), Coqui Mexicano - the Puerto Rican/Mexican fusion spot with a good selection of healthy items (and spontaneous gatherings of musicians playing traditional bomba and plena music of Puerto Rico) and of course the South Bronx Food Cooperative (who is one of the sponsors of the Bronx Food Summit), a community owned and operated alternative to big name and for profit supermarkets. Organic produce, products and bulk items like rice, pasta, nuts and dried fruit abound and not to mention Yoga classes 3 times a week and free cooking classes Monday evenings at 6:30PM.

TONIGHT! - Grand Concourse Historic Preservation Community Meeting

2010-04-20T14:07:00.000-04:00

Everyone is encouraged to come to the Grand Concourse Historic Preservation Community Meeting tonight at 7PM over at the Bronx Museum of Art (1040 Grand Concourse) at the invitation of Bronx Borough President, Ruben Diaz, Jr.

As per the invitation:

"Borough President Diaz invites all interested parties learn more about the proposed Grand Concourse Historic District. Landmark Commission members will be on hand to answer any questions regarding this historically rich and architecturally important group of buildings along the Grand Boulevard and Concourse."

So please do come to this very important meeting to talk about the future of our beloved Grand Boulevard and Concourse!!!

Picture of the Day

2010-04-11T22:12:00.002-04:00

As seen on a Harley on Elton Avenue between East 157th and East 158th Streets.

Special shout out goes to local Bronx resident Lance Rios founder and creator of Being Latino - the largest Latino social networking group on Facebook as well as a stand alone blog of the same name. Through the blog and Facebook, Lance Rios has successfully taken social media networking to a whole different level.

More on Being Latino coming soon but in the meantime, listen to what Mr. Rios has to say about Being Latino in his own words!

Ed García Conde
The "Mayor" of Melrose
http:/www.welcome2melrose.com
themayor@welcome2melrose.com
347-92-MELRO (347-926-3576)

4 or 5 Star Hotel in The Bronx?

2010-04-09T12:16:00.001-04:00

During the ribbon cutting of the new Macomb Dam Park and Joseph Yancey Track and Field which is going right now, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr mentioned the coming of a hotel and was overheard saying, "it's coming, it's coming" when someone reiterated his words. Stay tuned for more info on thus story as it develops.

Ed García Conde
The "Mayor" of Melrose
http:/www.welcome2melrose.com
themayor@welcome2melrose.com
347-92-MELRO (347-926-3576)

2010-04-09T11:49:00.000-04:00

Ed García Conde
The "Mayor" of Melrose
http:/www.welcome2melrose.com
themayor@welcome2melrose.com
347-92-MELRO (347-926-3576)

Macomb Dam Park Ribbon Cutting - Live

2010-04-09T11:42:00.001-04:00

Pet of the Day

2010-04-07T14:33:00.001-04:00

Meet Champaign and Lucky - our pets of the day. They were out and about on E 157th Street enjoying this beautiful day!

Ed García Conde
The "Mayor" of Melrose
http:/www.welcome2melrose.com
themayor@welcome2melrose.com
347-92-MELRO (347-926-3576)

UPDATE: Jardines de Seline Lease Signing Starts Today

2010-04-06T12:42:00.001-04:00

Jardines de Seline on Melrose and E 158th Street has begun the lease signing process.

Check out the beautiful mosaic which goes from the outside of the building and wraps around inside to the building's lobby.

Ed García Conde
The "Mayor" of Melrose
http:/www.welcome2melrose.com
themayor@welcome2melrose.com
347-92-MELRO (347-926-3576)