Unionized workers in the Bronx, represented by 32BJ SEIU, rallied at the Bronx Supreme Court against the potential renegotiation of their contract by the Bronx Realty Advisory Board. Threats of strikes emerged as the board considered reopening negotiations, prompting concerns about lowered standards and benefits. Elected officials, including Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, voiced support for the union, emphasizing the importance of fair contracts and the role of unions in protecting workers' rights. However, the realty board cited rising expenses and regulatory challenges, urging collaboration with property owners to address housing affordability concerns. more

David Pomeranz, the incoming chief executive of RiverSpring Living, brings decades of dedication and innovation to his new role. Having started as a wheelchair transporter at Hebrew Home at Riverdale in 1985, Pomeranz's journey is both a testament to his commitment and a love story intertwined with the institution. As he prepares to succeed Daniel Reingold after 35 years of leadership, Pomeranz aims for evolutionary rather than revolutionary changes, focusing on integrating technology and enhancing partnerships, notably with NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. His vision includes promoting joy and connection, especially vital after the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. more

The introduction of 180 electric school buses to New York City, alongside the development of a groundbreaking electric truck charging depot in the Bronx, marks a significant leap towards sustainable transportation. Mayor Eric Adams and U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat champion this initiative, emphasizing its impact on reducing emissions and creating green job opportunities. This effort aligns with Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz's proposed legislation, aimed at achieving ambitious climate goals by transitioning public transportation to zero-emission vehicles. Funding from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law supports these endeavors, reflecting a broader commitment to rebuilding infrastructure and addressing climate change on a national scale. more

U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres establishes the Congressional Clubhouse Caucus to advocate for improved mental health care, emphasizing the effectiveness of clubhouse models in supporting individuals with severe mental illness. The caucus aims to educate on the clubhouse model, address challenges in mental health care, and promote social integration. Torres, sharing his personal experience with depression, seeks to destigmatize mental illness and raise awareness in Congress and beyond, particularly crucial amid the mental health challenges exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. more

An advocacy group, the Empire State Local News Coalition, gathered in Albany to rally support for the Local Journalism Sustainability Act, aiming to provide tax credits to local news outlets employing journalists in New York communities. With bipartisan backing and inclusion in the Senate's One House budget resolution, the bill aims to address the crisis facing the local news industry, which has seen significant decline over the past decades, leading to job losses and diminished community coverage. The rally highlights the urgent need for legislative action to preserve local journalism and democracy. more

The fire in a Marble Hill apartment last week that displaced 27 tenants while injuring 10 people was caused by a lithium-ion battery, according to investigators.  And that has some worried about when the dangerous batteries — used primarily in scooters and e-bikes — can be taken off the streets. more

A petition by recently ousted BronxNet board chair Paul Gentile has caught the eye of the Attorney General Letitia James. And if her charities bureau does decide to investigate, the move has support from some very powerful political backers, which has hung a dark cloud over the cable public service entity. more

A new school can certainly change the look and feel of a neighborhood — especially when it replaces an infamous landmark like the Van Cortlandt Motel. more

An expelled member of congress sat on the House floor during President Joe Biden’s State of the Union last week. And as far as U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres is concerned, that should not happen — and should never happen again. more

If there’s anyone who might be an excellent candidate to run the Kingsbridge Riverdale Van Cortlandt Development Corp., it’s Laura Levine-Pinedo. more