Foundation offers grants to precincts

The New York City Police Foundation says it’s offering $1 million in total grants to local precincts, allowing each of them to consider new programs that promote wellness, honor fallen officers, and meet other needs at the community level.

Known as 50 Grants for 50 Precincts, each award could receive as much as $20,000.

Precincts can submit proposals beginning in March, and will be evaluated by a committee that includes members of the New York Police Department, and members of both the police foundations board of directors and its employees.

Stay away from the coyotes

Have you seen a coyote lately? They’ve shown up from time to time in and around this part of the Bronx. But the state’s environmental conservation department suggests if you do see one, stay far away.

“Coyotes may become territorial during the breeding and pup-rearing seasons,” said DEC commissioner Basil Seggos, in a release. That season is going on now, and lasts through March.

“While coyotes are an important part of New York’s ecosystem, New Yorkers are encouraged to be aware of the increased risks for conflicts and follow DEC’s guidance to prevent coyote encounters,” Seggos added.

Among those guidelines include not feeding coyotes — including leaving food of any kind outside. Even pets should be fed inside through March.

If you encounter an aggressive coyote, stand tall and hold your arms up or out to look as large as possible. If the coyote lingers, make loud noises, wave your arms, and throw sticks and stones.