While stuck in a Manhattan College basement, the Jonas Bronck Academy became one of the most successful middle school programs in the northwest Bronx. But since its inception 12 years ago, the school community has longed for a space of its own.

This July, the academy’s wish was granted as it moved from its Riverdale home to one of the classiest office buildings in the entire borough.

At a sparsely attended meeting near Fordham Road, Department of Education officials said state money designated to programs for students with special needs will remain the same as last year.

Two weeks ago, Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. took his case for the Bronx to Washington, DC. It marked his first official trip to the nation’s capital.

It took nine days, but Fernando Cabrera’s unofficial 90-vote lead over 14th Council District incumbent Maria Baez on primary night held up to scrutiny. After a full recount and adding up of all paper ballots, Cabrera, a pastor and college professor, took the hotly contested primary by a total of 75 votes.

Now that the primary election results are finalized, most winning candidates have to focus on the upcoming general election on Nov. 3. However, in the Bronx, the Democratic primaries are usually indicative of the general election winner. These daunting figures have not discouraged a few non-Democrats from entering local Council races.

Efrain Gonzalez, the former state senator who pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges in May, will not be sentenced until at least Nov. 13.

The City Planning Commission (CPC) will weigh in on the Related Companies’ proposal to redevelop the Kingsbridge Armory on Monday, Oct. 19. Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. issued a negative recommendation to the Commission last month because Related has not yet agreed to negotiate a Community Benefits Agreement.

A listing of public and community meetings in the northwest Bronx neighborhoods of Norwood, University Heights, North Fordham and Bedford Park.

In a recent interview, 52nd Police Precinct Commander James Alles said he was indeed retiring, but not because of illness as was reported publicly by a member of his staff.