I took a tour today of the gothic style Lynhurst Castle, on the Hudson River in Tarrytown, New York.. fascinating peak into 19th century opulence. Beautiful grounds, amazing views of the river.

We had a going away party for Derek Pagan whose family is relocating to Florida. Derek has been our most accomplished fighter in recent years, winner of the 2024 Ringmasters, 2 Metro tittles and this year’s Metro Jr Olympics. Great kid from a great family. Going to miss him.

Went to a H.S. graduation for a former student, Aiden Mendez. In a wheelchair from 6-10 yrs old, came to me at 14 failing school, overweight, lacking confidence. He’s now an academic, graduated with honors, going to college. Im very proud of him. Great kid, has a bright future.

I may possibly be a bit biased, but I believe that my quasi granddaughter is the cutest girl in the world.

Be First Boxing’s Derek Pagan winner of the Metropolitan Jr. Olympics 14 yr-old 106lb division. Our 15 yr-old 110lbs Mike James lost a tough decision at the semifinals last week. Proud of these 2 young men, consistently in the gym, putting in the work, staying out of trouble.

My wife Sandra received a gold pin and a plaque for 35 years of service as an international flight attendant. An educated woman who took a job because she wanted to see the world. She’s been to 6 continents, and close to 100 countries.I was lucky to be on a few of those trips.

Be First Boxing’s Derek Pagan got the win tonight at John’s gym in the Bronx advancing to the finals of the Metropolitan Jr Olympics, 14 yr-old 106 lb division. Derek is a great fighter, but tonight wasn’t his best performance, we need to clean up a few things before the finals.

Sad to report that an old friend,Kenny Fusco passed on Monday. A welterweight who boxed in the 70s & 80s. finished with a record of 11-3 - 9 KO’s. He got cancer after volunteering at the World Trade Center after 911. He’s the third person I know who died after volunteering there.

Tonight at Gleason’ gym in Brooklyn, Our Mike James Jr. advanced to the next round of the Metropolitan junior Olympics 110lbs. I coached his dad now his son has taken over the family business. Great kid, talented.

Excellent night of sparring with the 13 and 14-year-olds. I love working with the youngsters, it’s like being handed a blank canvas. All for these kids have already competed. Derek Pagan 2nd from the left and Marc Cuomo 2nd from the right have already won tournaments.

My wife was up in the Catskills today on business and she thought I might like this photo of a boxing landmark. She was right.

Our friend Austin Cassese in training for his 4th Pro fight this June at the Westchester County Center. 3 of our guys including the little champ, Derek Pagán gave him a total of 10 rounds. Austin looked Sharp, we’ll all be in attendance on June 14 to support him.

Took a ride up north to our sister gym in Newburgh so the little guys could get some work. Both kids technically sound with good mechanics, both already competing and winning. They treated a packed gym to a spirited sparring session.

Remembering my dad on Veterans Day. A veteran of WWII. Served in the south pacific, Purple Heart recipient. He lived to the ripe old age of 100 and like so many others of his generation he never spoke of his combat experiences.

I thought I was going to get an extra hours sleep this morning. Apparently Cassius doesn’t recognize daylight savings time and decided to wake me up at 6:45 AM

Beautiful day in New York, I decided to go down to the Hudson River waterfront with Cassius Clay… There is a Hispanic heritage festival going on, all the activity is a little too much for him so he’s just chilling.

A good friend of ours, Austin Cassese Is getting ready for his 2nd pro fight September 13, in Boston. Be First Boxing‘s, Josh Manning gave him 6 good rounds of sparring to help him prepare.