Education
UPDATE ICE Responds on Detention of Marble Hill High School Student
Following news that a New York City high-school student attending English Language Learners and International Support Preparatory Academy (ELLIS) in Marble Hill, was detained by U.S. Department of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials when he, reportedly, appeared at a Manhattan courthouse for a routine hearing on May 20, we reached out to ICE and asked what offense, if any, the student had been charged with, and where he was currently being held.
Van Cortlandt Jewish Center Hosts ‘Holocaust Remembrance’ Lecture; Bronx Group Demands End to Aid Blockade
Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act Advances in U.S. House of Reps
The Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act, pending legislation introduced by Congressman Ritchie Torres (NY-15) and others passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a 365-42 vote, according to Torres spokesperson, Ben Stanislawski, on April 28. Cosponsors of the legislation were Congressman Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), and Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23).
Memorial Day Celebrated Across The Bronx
Memorial Day was formally marked across The Bronx on and in the lead up to Monday, May 26, at various venues and at various events. It comes as the Trump administration’s U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by billionaire tycoon, Elon Musk, cut thousands of positions at the VA across the country, as previously reported in February.
Music Program Thriving under Erin Reik at P.S. / M.S. 95 Sheila Mencher School
Under the leadership of Principal Serge Marshall Davis, P.S. / M.S. 95, the Sheila Mencher School, has a thriving music program. Erin Reik, who holds a Bachelor of Music in classical vocal performance from William Paterson University and a Masters of Art in teaching from Lehman College, is the music teacher shepherding the program to new heights.
Unity Democrats Announce Endorsements in Upcoming Democratic Primary
The Unity Democratic Club announced their official endorsements for multiple political races in the upcoming 2025 primary elections in late February. These included City Council Member Justin Brannan (C.D. 43) who represents parts of Brooklyn for the role of NYC comptroller, a role currently held by Brad Lander, City Council Member Rafael Salamanca Jr. (C.D. 17) for Bronx borough president, a role currently held by Vanessa L. Gibson, Danielle Herbert Guggenheim, a Unity Democrat member and former vice-president, for City Council District 11, a role currently held by Eric Dinowitz, and finally incumbent City Council Member Pierina Sanchez for District 14.
NYC Commission on Human Rights Announces Disability Advocate Jaclyn Okin Barney as a New Commissioner
The New York City Commission on Human Rights (CHR) announced the appointment of Jaclyn Okin Barney, Esq as a new commissioner on Friday, May 16. They said Okin Barney, a disability rights advocate, brings nearly two decades of experience as a dedicated disability rights attorney, advocate, educator, and policy strategist to the commission.
