Biaggi Celebrates New Law Limiting Hate Symbols on State Property

By SÍLE MOLONEY

New York State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi was celebrating, on Dec. 15, the signing into law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo of a new bill S8298B, for which she was the lead sponsor, which prohibits the State of New York from selling or displaying symbols of hate. The bill states that the State shall not sell or display any symbols of hate or similar image, or tangible personal property, inscribed with such an image, unless the image appears in a book, digital medium, museum, or otherwise serves an educational or historical purpose. The term, “symbols of hate” shall include, but

By DAVID GREENE

The massive ‘Black Friday’ crowds at large stores and shopping malls, where customers often got on line the night before, were noticeably absent this year due to the pandemic, as millions of shoppers switched to online bargain hunting, a move that will potentially change the face of Black Friday forever. On Friday, Nov. 27, the GameStop on White Plains Road, packed one year ago with customers shuffling in and out of the store, or to Modell’s Sporting Goods next door was a very different sight this year. Modell’s declared bankruptcy and closed its 153 stores on August 29, as

By SÍLE MOLONEY

The New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) has issued a Snow Alert for Wednesday, December 16, 2020 beginning at 2 p.m. As reported by Norwood News, and based on current forecasts, the department expects snowfall beginning late Wednesday afternoon. Total accumulation of eight or more inches is possible, with potential for more in some areas. All winter weather information and information about the City’s response to the storm can be found by visiting the City’s Severe Weather website at www.nyc.gov/severeweather or by calling 311. While the department is expecting significant snowfall, representatives said its workers and equipment are prepared.

By SÍLE MOLONEY

The New York City Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Jazmary Thompson, 15, who was reported missing and who lives in the 43rd precinct, at 1340 Stratford Avenue in the Soundview section of the Bronx. Jazmary was last seen on Sunday, Dec. 13, at approximately 1.15 p.m. inside her home. She is described as being approximately 5 feet, 3 inches tall, weighs 115 pounds, has brown eyes and blonde hair, and was last seen wearing white sneakers, a multicolored shirt and green pants. Anyone with information in regards to this missing person is asked to

By SÍLE MOLONEY

Both State Sen. Julia Salazar and former City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito announced on Monday, Dec. 14, that they are endorsing Elisa Crespo for the 15th District City Council seat, currently held by newly elected congressman, Ritchie Torres. In a video shared on Twitter, Mark-Viverito said, “We need a candidate who will create pathways for unemployed workers, particularly those stigmatized by race, gender identity, or former incarceration status. We must seize upon this moment to make history, and elect bold leaders who are prepared to tackle the fights ahead. That’s why I’m proud to endorse mi hermana, a fellow Latina,

By SÍLE MOLONEY

As previously reported by the Norwood News, the Foundation for Excellence in Education (FLAG) Award for Teaching Excellence opened its nomination process for this school year’s awards program in October. The FLAG Award for Teaching Excellence recognizes and celebrates extraordinary public school teachers in each borough who inspire learning through creativity, passion, and commitment. The nomination period for 2020 has since been extended to Jan. 3, 2021. Jurists include Betty A. Rosa, interim commissioner of the New York State education department, and Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, chancellor of the City University of New York. Students, parents, school personnel, and

By SÍLE MOLONEY

The New York Lottery announced on Monday, Dec. 14, there were multiple top-prize winning tickets sold in the Dec. 13, Take-5 drawing. The tickets were sold in the Bronx, Shirley and in Rego Park, at the following locations: E&M Wine & Liquors located at 1242 Ogden Avenue in the Highbridge section of the Bronx, which sold one prize winning ticket worth $17,558.00 Nirvana Vape & Smoke located at 800 Montauk Highway in Shirley, which sold one prize winning ticket worth $17,558.00 Lucky Corner located at 93-23 63rd Drive in Rego Park, which sold one prize winning ticket worth $17,598.00

By SÍLE MOLONEY

The New York City Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Jamisha McKay, 19, who lives in the Castle Hill section of the Bronx, in the 43rd precinct. McKay was last seen on Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, at approximately 1.15 p.m., inside her home at 420 Howe Avenue. She is described as being approximately 5 feet, 4 inches tall, weighs 120 pounds, and has brown eyes and black hair. There is no known clothing description for McKay as of the time she was last seen. Anyone with information with regard to this missing person is asked

By SÍLE MOLONEY

On Dec. 1, Dr. Dave A. Chokshi, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, issued an open letter to all New Yorkers, citing the rapidly increasing number of COVID-19 cases and calling on all New Yorkers to remain vigilant about adhering to public health guidance. In the letter, he said to further protect people who are most at risk for severe COVID-19, the City’s health department was advising adults over 65 and people with certain underlying health conditions, as well as household members and caregivers of these people, to limit activities outside their