Simone Development Companies, Stagg Group are AI Sponsors of Bronx Chamber Gala Featuring Anything is Possible Theme, Robot Emcee

Humanoid Master of Ceremonies Shows Possibilities of AI at Bronx’s Largest Business Event

(Bronx, NY – October 1, 2024) – Anything is Possible was the theme as The Bronx Chamber of Commerce held its 21st Annual Gala on September 19 at Marina del Rey in the Throggs Neck section of the borough. The 2024 Gala showcased the transformative advancements made possible for commerce in the Bronx and beyond by artificial intelligence, featuring SOPHIA, an AI-powered humanoid Master of Ceremonies created by Hanson Robotics. Bronx-based developers Simone Development Companies and Stagg Group served as AI sponsors for the event.

Bronx Chamber Gala

“The Bronx Chamber is thrilled to be the first association to feature the one-of-a-kind SOPHIA and provide an experience for the Chamber network to experience her vast capabilities, demystifying AI and demonstrating its potential to fuel the growth of our business community,” said Lisa Sorin, president of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce. “More than 600 members, partners and supporters gathered together to recognize the contributions of our honorees with an eye toward the future of commerce in our borough and beyond.”

SOPHIA, a humanoid robot that served as emcee for the event, was developed by scientists at Hanson Robotics with a persona “combining cutting- edge work in symbolic AI, neural networks, expert systems, machine perception, conversational natural language processing, adaptive motor control and cognitive architecture.” She is able to recognize human faces, see emotional expressions, and express her own human-like emotional responses. She can generate her own ideas and behaviors, while holding meaningful conversations with people. She is designed to serve real world uses in medicine, education, and scientific research.

The program was co-hosted by Michael Max Knobbe, Executive Director of BronxNet Community Television, and featured a live performance by Bronx-born singer Steven Maglio as well as other local entertainers.

“Simone Development Companies is proud to support the ongoing work of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce and to highlight, along with our co-sponsor Stagg Group, the limitless potential of artificial intelligence as a tool for business growth,” said Joe Simone, president of Simone Development Companies. “The annual Chamber gala offers a wonderful opportunity to recognize our fellow businesses and celebrate the fact that anything is possible when we work together.”

The 2024 Bronx Chamber Gala honored four organizations who have demonstrated their commitment to strengthening the Bronx business community through their distinct contributions:

  • D&J Transportation – Business of the Year
  • Monroe University – Community Organization of the Year
  • Lemle & Wolff Companies – Developer of the Year
  • Amazon – recipient of the Joseph P. Kelleher Award of Excellence

“Our honorees this year exemplify the innovation, dedication, and resilience that drive the Bronx forward,” said Anthony Mormile, Chairman of the Bronx Chamber Board of Directors. “Each has made a unique impact on our community that we are proud to celebrate. As we honor their achievements, we are also excited to showcase the future of commerce with SOPHIA, who embodies the potential of technology for business. This event not only reflected on past successes, but also looked ahead to the limitless possibilities that AI can bring to our borough.”

Special thanks were extended to the 2024 Gala Sponsors:

  • Bronx AI Sponsors: Simone Development Companies, Stagg Group
  • Bronx Champions: Amazon, D&J Transportation, Lemle & Wolff
  • Bronx Partners: DoorDash, Bally’s Casino, Monroe University
  • Bronx Supporters: Affinity by Molina Healthcare, KZA Realty Group, Ponce Bank, Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts, Orange Bank & Trust Co., Woodlawn Cemetery & Conservancy, Montefiore, RiteCheck, Kasirer, and Eye Mind Strategies

The annual Gala raises vital unrestricted funding for the Bronx Chamber, with 100% of all contributions supporting its business and economic development programs.

2024-10-02T11:04:09-04:00October 1, 2024|

Simone Development Companies Welcomes NewYork-Presbyterian to Medical Office Building at 2510 Westchester Avenue in the Bronx

BRONX, NY (September 23, 2024) – Simone Development Companies announced that NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems, has signed a 10,189 square-foot long-term lease at Simone Development’s medical office property at 2510 Westchester Avenue in the Bronx.

2510 Westchester Avenue, Bronx

Simone Development was represented by in-house leasing and legal teams in direct negotiations with the tenant.

“We are pleased to welcome NewYork-Presbyterian to one of the East Bronx’s top medical office properties,” said Joe Simone, President of Simone Development Companies. “NewYork-Presbyterian’s presence at 2510 Westchester Avenue complements the outstanding medical tenant roster at this facility.”

“NewYork-Presbyterian is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to patients and the communities we serve, and we look forward to expanding our care in the Bronx community,” said Joe Ienuso, Group Senior Vice President, Facilities and Real Estate of NewYork-Presbyterian. “At this new location, patients can access exceptional obstetrics and gynecology care, as well as primary care services.”

Existing tenants at the three-story, 60,000 square-foot property located just steps from the Westchester Square #6 subway station include multiple specialties like orthopedics and sports medicine, physical therapy and chiropractic, behavioral health, acupuncture, and more.

2024-09-25T16:11:06-04:00September 23, 2024|

Simone Development Companies Signs New Lease with Adams Clinical and Announces Opening of Good Mercy Pharmacy at Hutchinson Metro Center

Medical Research Center Takes Over 7,200 SF and 2,600 SF Drug Store Debuts at Bronx Complex

BRONX, NY – August 20, 2024 – Simone Development Companies has signed a new long-term lease with Adams Clinical, Inc. for its new Davis Clinical site: 7,236 square feet of research and office space at 1200 Waters Place, part of the Hutchinson Metro Center in the Bronx, NY. Simone Development Companies was represented by in-house leasing and legal teams, while Adams Clinical, Inc. was represented by Revise Group and Kenneth Salzman of Lee & Associates NYC.

Hutchinson Metro Center

Adams Clinical, Inc. is a network of clinical research centers specializing in psychiatric and neurological drug development. Headquartered in Watertown, MA, this marks their second location in New York.

“Adams Clinical’s new Davis site is an excellent addition to our vibrant scientific community here at the Hutchinson Metro Center and we look forward to supporting their vital research and innovation efforts,” said Joe Simone, President of Simone Development Companies. “Home to over 80 leading businesses, healthcare and educational institutions as well as federal, state, and city agencies, our mixed-use campus of medical, office, retail, hospitality and academic space is the perfect home for this type of cutting-edge work.”

1200 Waters Place is a modern, 433,000-square-foot building with three floors of Class A medical, academic, and office space, along with amenities including a landscaped courtyard, fitness center, teleconference center, and free parking. Major tenants at the property include Mercy College, New York GI Center, ENT and Allergy Associates, and several city, state, and federal agencies.

In addition to Davis Clinical, Good Mercy Pharmacy, which signed a long-term lease earlier this year, has opened a 2,592-square-foot pharmacy and retail space at Tower One, 1250 Waters Place, within the Hutchinson Metro Center. Ownership was represented by in-house leasing and legal teams while Good Mercy Pharmacy was represented by Sherry Scanlon of KZA Realty. Good Mercy Pharmacy provides both delivery and walk-in pharmacy services and a convenience store at the new location.

Good Mercy Pharmacy joins several well-known retail tenants at the Hutchinson Metro Center, including Chipotle, LA Fitness, Dunkin’ Donuts, A-Z Nutrition, Tower Café, and a Residence Inn by Marriott. The property is also home to several healthcare tenants including Montefiore Medical Center, MJHS Health System, Freedom Center Home Dialysis, NY Spine and Sport Center, Motion PT, and Shein Orthopedics, among others.

Tower One at 1250 Waters Place is a 285,000-square-foot Class A building with nine floors of prime medical, office, and retail space, as well as conference centers and abundant free and valet parking and 24/7 security.

2024-08-22T09:59:49-04:00August 20, 2024|

Simone Development Signs UrgentWay to Long-Term Lease for Urgent Care Center at 2826 Westchester Ave. in the Bronx; Property is Now Fully Leased

BRONX, NY – February 22, 2024 – Simone Development Companies has announced UrgentWay, a leading provider of walk-in medical services with locations throughout New York City and Long Island, has signed a long-term, 2,000-square-foot lease for an urgent care center at 2826 Westchester Avenue in the Pelham Bay section of the Bronx. The property is now fully leased.

This location is also home to the Steppingstone Day School, a leading provider of early childhood and other family services.

UrgentWay was represented by Sinovsky Realty Services. Simone Development Companies was represented by in-house leasing and legal teams.

UrgentWay building at 2826 Westchester Avenue

“UrgentWay is a key component to this vital health and day care location serving Pelham Bay and surrounding communities,” said Josh Gopan, Vice President of Leasing at Simone Development Companies.

The property at 2826 Westchester Avenue is a two-story, 19,250 square-foot mixed-use medical, office and community services building that is handicap accessible and conveniently located near public transportation. The property also offers ample parking.

2024-02-20T13:55:26-05:00February 22, 2024|

American Heart Association in NYC Marks 100th Anniversary

Healthcare Real Estate Executive Joe Simone of Simone Development Companies Named 2024 Centennial Chair of the Heart of New York City campaign

NEW YORK, NY, February 1, 2024 —The new year marks the 100th birthday of the American Heart Association and the start of the organization’s Bold HeartsTM campaign, a celebration of a century of profound impact on heart health and well-being.

Leadership of the signature campaigns of the American Heart Association in New York City have demonstrated their commitment to the transformative work ahead in the second century. The bold leadership needed to catapult the American Heart Association’s next 100 years of relentless work and transformative innovation starts today.

The 2024 New York City chairs are:

  • Joe Simone, President, Simone Development Companies and 2024 Centennial Chair of the Heart of New York City campaign.
  • Tifphani White-King, Principal, US National Tax Practice Leader for Mazars and Centennial Chair of the 2024 New York City Go Red for Women® movement.
  • Michael Kruse, Managing Director and Head, Global Banking and Markets, U.S., Scotiabank and 2024 Centennial Chair of the New York City Heart Challenge.

Beginning a new century of mission critical work, the organization continues its steadfast commitment to making the bold moves needed for new paths of scientific discovery, eradicating barriers to health equity and advocating for healthy policy so that every member of the New York City community has the opportunity for a longer, healthier life. That pledge to the community is shared with likeminded community leaders and organizations who are relentless in their support to eliminate heart disease and stroke in the new century.

“The American Heart Association’s centennial is a celebration of the lifesaving achievements and shared vision for a bold new century that will exponentially advance heart and brain health,” said Joe Simone, President, Simone Development Companies, 2024 Centennial Chair of the Heart of New York City campaign and member of the New York City board of directors. “With a focus on the work that lies ahead, bolstered by a commitment to learn from the past, the Association celebrates what it has accomplished, thanks to the hard work and dedication of generations of volunteers and donors.”

Since its founding on June 10, 1924, the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, has helped transform the nation’s health and significantly reduce heart disease and stroke death rates. But there is much work to be done.

“As we close out our first 100 years and begin the next, our work remains as important as ever. Throughout the last century, the American Heart Association has moved health and well-being forward in important and critical ways,” said Brian Kingston, CEO of Brookfield’s Real Estate business and Chair of the American Heart Association New York City board of directors. “As we head into our second century, our focus remains on fueling science and innovation, funding lifesaving research and supporting the rights of patients and care givers, to empower healthier communities and advance the way we live, work and play.”

“This relentless pursuit will continue until heart disease and stroke are the stories of our past and not of our future. A world with equitable health and well-being fuels a future that is yours to create,” said Tifphani White-King, Principal, US National Tax Practice Leader for Mazars and Centennial Chair of the 2024 New York City Go Red for Women® movement. “We know we can’t do this work alone. Volunteers, donors and advocates are key to accelerating this lifesaving work.”

With relentless resolve for the future of our lifesaving work and equitable health for all people, we are deeply grateful to those who have already boldly stepped forward to generously support our Second Century Campaign. Second Century Cornerstone recognizes a company or individual who has made a seven-figure donation.

New York City cornerstone donors include: Atria Health Collaborative, Elizabeth Elting Foundation, and Mother Cabrini Health Foundation.
Other New York City Second Century campaign supporters include:

Rose Caiola/Bettina Equities, BNY Mellon, Brookfield, Centers Health Care, Citi, Compass One Healthcare, Cristina Civetta and Ed Scheetz, Cushman & Wakefield, EY, Joanne Dunbar, Kingston Family Trust, KPMG, Mazars, Mount Sinai Heart, New York Community Trust, New York-Presbyterian, Northwell Health, NYU Langone Health, Paul Hastings LLP, Pfizer, Scotiabank, Simone Development Companies, The Estée Lauder Companies Inc., Unitex, Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP, White + Warren.

“Heart disease is the No. 1 killer worldwide, and stroke ranks second globally. The American Heart Association is advancing health and hope for all and creating a vision for brighter tomorrows free from these diseases,“ said Natalia Cineas, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, Senior Vice President, Chief Nursing Executive, Co-Chair, Equity and Access Council for NYC Health + Hospitals and President of the New York City American Heart Association board of directors.

“Progress doesn’t happen without Bold Hearts trailblazing new paths of scientific discovery, working tirelessly to remove barriers to health equity and advocating for healthier communities,” said Michael Kruse, Managing Director and Head, Global Banking and Markets, U.S., Scotiabank and 2024 Centennial Chair of the New York City Heart Challenge. “Throughout the past century, the American Heart Association has moved health and well-being forward in important and critical ways.”

The American Heart Association was founded by six cardiologists, but the distinguished achievements of the organization for the past century are the result of the passion of more than 40 million volunteers, supporters, employees, and more than $5 billion invested in scientific research.
To learn more about accomplishments in the first 100 years of the American Heart Association or how to participate in the Second Century campaign, visit heart.org.

2024-02-20T13:43:39-05:00February 1, 2024|

Simone Development Signs 10,300 SF in New Leases at Hutchinson Metro Center in The Bronx, NY

BRONX, NY – December 13, 2023 – Simone Development Companies has signed two new long-term leases totaling 10,300 square feet of medical and office space at the Hutchinson Metro Center in the Bronx, NY.

North Bronx Orthopedic and Spine Group has signed a long-term lease for 5,121 square feet of medical and office space at 1200 Waters Place while MJHS Health System (MJHS) has signed a long-term lease for 5,179 square feet of office space at Tower One at 1250 Waters Place. Simone Development Companies was represented by in-house leasing and legal teams for both transactions. North Bronx Orthopedic and Spine Group was represented in-house and CBRE’s Bill Jordan represented MJHS.

hutchinson metro center new leases

With roots dating back to 1907, MJHS is a premier not-for-profit provider of quality care across the greater New York area, including: home care, hospice and palliative care for adults and children, as well as Isabella and Menorah Centers for Rehabilitation and Nursing Care. Elderplan, which offers Medicare Advantage plans and HomeFirst, its managed long-term care plan, are also members of the MJHS family. MJHS is committed to helping care for, support, and guide patients, residents, and members of all backgrounds along their healthcare journeys and to closing gaps in care.

North Bronx Orthopedic and Spine Group is a fully licensed orthopedics and spine group providing outpatient care.

“The Hutchinson Metro Center, our mixed-use campus of medical, office, retail, hospitality and academic space, is currently home to over 80 leading businesses, healthcare and educational institutions as well as federal, state and city agencies, and we are thrilled to welcome North Bronx Orthopedic and Spine Group and MJHS to our tenant roster,” said Joanna Simone, Principal & President of Leasing and Property Management Operations for Simone Development Companies.

Tower One at 1250 Waters Place at Simone’s Hutchinson Metro Center is a 285,000-square-foot Class A building with nine floors of prime medical, office and retail space, as well as conference centers and abundant free and valet parking and 24/7 security. In addition to MJHS Health System, Tower One is home to various other medical offices including Montefiore Medical Center and Motion PT. The property is also home to the popular Tower Café.

1200 Waters Place is a 433,000-square-foot modern building with three floors of Class A medical, academic, and office space as well as various amenities including a landscaped courtyard, fitness center, a teleconference center and free parking. North Bronx Orthopedic and Spine Group is joined at the property by major tenants including Mercy College and several city, state, and federal agencies.

2023-12-21T15:07:06-05:00December 13, 2023|
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