Author: Leigh
April News: the golden hour
2024 Spring Benefit
March News: the golden hour
Black History Month event at Bronx Borough Hall honors 14 individuals, Bronx Times
Originally published on Feb. 26, 2024 via BronxTimes.com
On Feb. 22, “The Renaissance: A Celebration of Black History ” event was held at Bronx Borough Hall, where attendees enjoyed community, music, food and more.
The event was held in partnership with the Bronx Community Justice Center, Assemblymember Chantel Jackson, City Council Member Althea Stevens, U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres, Sen. Luis Sepulveda, Sen. Jose Serrano and Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson.
Honorees were Shaheim Harrison, creative director for the VIP School Empowerment Coalition and founder of Surplus NYC; Tanya Pedler, president of Morrisania Air Rights Tenant Association; Marisol Rivera, hospital responder coordinator community liaison program manager of community relations; Nicole Perkins, PS 294; Dwayne Brown, Phipps Neighborhood; Jimi Orekoya, New Settlement Community Center; Billy Filmore, Y Men; Ronald Laurent, PS 146 Edward Collins Principle; Kadiatu Sow, Dr. Richard Izquierdo Health and Science Charter School; Marlon Gamboa, Samara Community School; Ali Siba, District 16 Youth Advisory Board member; Darien Holloman, SOS; Isaiah Hunter, SOS; and Sherlisely Vining, SOS.
February News: the golden hour
Eastchester: BP Gibson Hosts 3rd Annual Black History Month Celebration
Originally published by Norwood News, February 8, 2024
Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson hosted her 3rd Annual Black History Month celebration at Eastwood Manor, located at 3371 Eastchester Road in the Eastchester section of the Bronx, on Wednesday, Feb. 7. The evening, recognized what was described as the richness of African American culture and history in the borough, and featured special performances by The Harlem Group Ensemble, and Renaissance H.S. Varsity Voices.
Receiving the Aurelia Greene Memorial Award was principal administrative associate of NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS), Shirley Williams Myrie, who is celebrating her 70th year as a New York City employee. The Bronx native who began her career in 1953, was joined by her family and ACS Commissioner Jess Dannhauser, who hailed her years of dedication to the city as a public servant.
The award is named for beloved former Deputy Borough President Aurelia Greene who, as reported, died on Saturday, May 8, 2021, at the age of 86.
Also honored was president/CEO of Soul Snacks Cookies, Ralph Rolle, whose product, once a staple at local bodegas in the 1990s, is now being sold at Krogers and Walmart stores across the country.
Recently featured in People magazine and Fortune magazine, Rolle, who once baked out of the kitchen of his apartment at the Bronx River Houses, will soon be partnering with former White House pastry chef under the Obama Administration, Bill Yosses, to start a culinary school based in the Soundview section.
Attendees also heard that executive director of Mt. Eden-based housing nonprofit, New Settlement, Rigaud Yves Noel, another honoree, has served in senior and executive management positions at nonprofits across New York City over the last two decades. Noel credited his Haitian-born parents who, despite financial challenges, sent him to Catholic school to ensure his future success in the workforce.
Norma Saunders, tenant association president and Family Enrichment Center director at Bronx River Houses, located in the Soundview section, was also recognized for what was described as her tireless work in advocating for youth and adults in public housing.
This year’s Youth Award was given to the Renaissance H.S. Varsity Voices. PIX 11’s Arrianee LeBeau served as MC for the event. Other attendees included New York Attorney General Letitia James.
Black History Month got off to a good start for Bronx Jazz singer, Samara Joy, who, as reported, won her third Grammy at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 4, in Los Angeles, CA.
Click here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, to read some related coverage on this topic, and check our regular Out & About sections for details of various events marking Black History Month throughout February. We will publish a new listing shortly.
November Newsletter: the golden hour
June Newsletter: the golden hour
Building a Safer Future with Learn to Swim and Lifeguard Opportunities
In the heart of The Bronx, New Settlement is making waves by tackling two significant challenges head-on: the lifeguard shortage and the disparities in swimming abilities among different racial and ethnic groups. Through comprehensive learn-to-swim programs and year-round lifeguard opportunities, New Settlement is transforming lives and creating a safer future for all.
Tackling the Lifeguard Shortage
New Settlement offers comprehensive learn-to-swim programs that serve as a pathway to becoming lifeguard-certified. By adhering to Red Cross standards, young people who participate in these programs develop essential water safety skills, positioning themselves for lifeguard certification not only at New Settlement but also at various facilities across the city. We’re nurturing a new generation of capable lifeguards, actively working to ensure the safety of our aquatic spaces.
Moreover, New Settlement understands the importance of preparing young individuals for the more challenging NYC Lifeguard certification. Through our learn-to-swim programs, participants gain a solid foundation that equips them to handle the demanding training and requirements of becoming NYC-certified lifeguards. New Settlement’s comprehensive approach is instrumental in bridging the gap and addressing the lifeguard shortage in our city.
Addressing Disparities in Swimming Abilities
New Settlement recognizes the significance of equal access to swimming education. Our learn to swim programs focus on providing swimmers of all ages, predominantly Black and Latinx community members, with vital water safety skills. We have inclusive classes for neurodivergent and autistic youth, and swimming opportunities for transgender adults. For seniors, we offer aquatics programs that build strength and fitness. By providing affordable and accessible opportunities, New Settlement aims to bridge the disparities in swimming abilities, ensuring that everyone, especially children, has the opportunity to thrive in the water. We’re fostering a community where everyone can swim confidently.
Building Confidence and Leadership
New Settlement’s impact extends beyond teaching swimming skills. Through learn-to-swim initiatives, participants gain confidence in the water and develop crucial life skills. These programs also open doors to lifeguarding opportunities, offering young individuals well-paid and reliable first jobs. Lifeguarding cultivates responsibility, leadership, and a sense of community service, shaping them into responsible leaders within their communities. New Settlement is not only preparing individuals for exciting careers but also nurturing their personal growth.
