In his 10th state of the borough address, Ruben Diaz Jr. touted his record, criticized the de Blasio administration and celebrated contributions made by Bronx residents.

Though he teased the possibility of moving into Gracie Mansion one day, the Bronx Borough President did not say if he will run for Mayor.

“Not today, but stay tuned,” said Diaz.

It was the announcement he did make, that drew the most applause, the creation of a summer camp in memory of Lesandro Guzman Feliz, known as Junior. The 15-year old was stabbed to death outside of a Bronx bodega last June, allegedly by gang members in a case of mistaken identity.

His mother Leandra said she endorses the plan for the camp.

 

Courtesy of Bronx BP’s Office

 

“I’m never going to have my son back but the tragedy is going to help to save other kids,” she said.

Camp Junior will be located in Harriman State Park, which straddles Orange and Rockland counties and is an hour away from the Bronx. It will offer outdoor skills experience each summer to 1,000 boys and girls, ages 9 to 13 from targeted Bronx neighborhoods. The goal is to put them in an environment that is far from the streets and away from gang life.

 

Courtesy of Bronx BP’s Office

 

“What we’re asking for is that asked and inquired what is it that we’re doing as government and what is it that you can do as citizens to avoid this from happening again, well this is the answer,” said the Bronx borough president.

Diaz says he discussed the idea with Junior's mom and brought it to Governor Cuomo. At Cuomo's direction, the state Parks Department is kicking in $2 million to rehab one of the old youth camps in the park. The camp will be operated by the Fresh Air Fund.  Bronx families are encouraged to apply by visiting the fund's website or attend one of their info sessions.

The camp bearing his name is not the only tribute to Junior. Next Wednesday, the corner of E. 183rd St. and Bathgate Ave. will be officially co-named "Lesandro 'Junior' Way."