Bronx Family

CampSummer GuideApril 2011 BRONX/RIVERDALE FREE Family www.webfamilyny.com

Going green all year long Heilbrunn Music scHool Private and GrouP Classes For aGes 4 and uP Piano • Guitar • Voice • Violin and other instruments Pre-sCHool GrouP MusiC For aGes 18 MontHs – 4 Years Dance scHool Classes for Pre-Schoolers, Children, Teens and Adults Ballet * Tap * Jazz * Hip Hop * Flamenco * Latin * Belly Dance and more

SCHOLARSHIPS AND FREE LOANER INSTRUMENTS AVAILABLE SIGN UP FOR CLASS OPEN HOUSE TODAY! Saturday, April 2, 11am – 2pm Spring Session of Group Music and Dance begins the week of April 4th

Join Us! We are located at 990 Pelham Parkway South and can be reached by subway and bus. (#5 Morris Park Station; #2 Pelham Parkway Station; #12 Bus) For further information, please call (718) 792-1800 ext. 235 www.bronxhouse.org Bronx/Riverdale Family April 2011

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Features 6 Green all year long Doing your bit for the environment — long past Earth Day By Denise Morrison Yearian 10 Fresh Kills The ultimate green makeover By Monica Brown 14 5 reasons camp is so important Why children benefit from this rite of passage 6 12 19 Make some music Bronx recording studio now open to all 20 Get more for less Tips on how to save on entertainment and more By Candi Sparks

columns 12 Lions and Tigers and Teens By Myrna Beth Haskell 26 New & Noteworthy The hottest new products

calendar of events 22 Going Places Take the family out and find out what’s going on in your town

special sections 13 Party Directory 24 16 Camps/Activities Directory April 2011 • BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY 3 Letter from the publisher Our glorious planet earth

love this planet and horrendous earthquake We need to go beyond the In depth articles that have been fortunate and tsunami in Japan, profit motive in all we promote all kinds of pos- I to have seen a lot of which led to the subse- approach, and we need itive actions families it. When I was a young- quent nuclear disaster to have long range and individuals can ster I traveled through that still, as of this writ- goals that will leave part take in, in all areas books and as soon as ing, has not been sat- our grandchildren and of life, are proudly run I was old enough, I de- isfied, and remains an their children a safe here in our magazines, cided to see as much ongoing trauma of the and prosperous world and also are posted on of it for myself as my utmost proportions. to enjoy and thrive in. our terrific website. Visit pocketbook and my Regardless of the Proudly, we present this us on www.webfamilyny.com, time would allow. I con- magnitude of these di- month a wonderful article about join us as friends on our Facebook tinue to, although time, energy and sastrous occurrences, we continue Staten Island’s Fresh Kills, which will pages, and please, share your ideas money are precious for the journeys to encourage even the smallest con- be an amazing local makeover and for what we, as neighbors in your I still want to make. scientious behavior and awareness will be the world’s largest land gar- communities, can do to help the A lot has changed over these on the part of both adults and chil- bage dump turned into a gorgeous world we live in. Thanks for reading years. Many of the earth’s lands have dren alike. Without a doubt, we need park. us, and thanks for reading my col- entered the 21st Century with higher to continue to raise the awareness Another article gives good ideas umns, too! gross national products and have of the corporate world, as well as for what you and your family can do become more modernized. However, promote individual responsible ac- all year round to add your family’s our air and water have deteriorated, tions that send the message to ev- “bit for the environment.” We can’t and most recently, our earth has eryone that we care what happens have enough good editorials about been going through enormous cata- here, and that we want to leave a liv- things like these, and we will continue strophic upheavals — such as the able place for the future generations. to present as many as possible. Susan Weiss-Voskidis, Publisher

Staff contact information

Publisher / Advertising / editoriAl: Advertising: Web or Print Address Susan Weiss (718) 260-4554 Family Publications New York/CNG Publisher / business MAnAger: [email protected] or 1 Metrotech Center North Clifford Luster [email protected] 10th Floor sAles MAnAger / Advertising: Brooklyn, NY 11201 Sharon Noble circulAtion sPeciAl AdMinistrAtive AssistAnt: (718) 260-8336 Tina Felicetti [email protected] www.webfamilyny.com sAles rePs: Linda Smith, Stephanie Stellaccio, Jay Pelc editoriAl Production MAnAger: Keith Oechsner (718) 260-4554 Art director: Leah Mitch [email protected] Production director: On Man Tse lAyout MAnAger: Yvonne Farley The acceptance of advertising by Family Publica­ Join the conversation on Facebook. Web designer: Sylvan Migdal tions New York does not constitute an endorse- Family Publications New York has been recog- grAPhic designers: Arthur Arutyunov, ment of the products, services or information nized for editorial and design excellence by PPA. being advertised. We do not knowingly present Patty Coughlan, Mauro Deluca, Earl Ferrer, Family Publications New York is published Irene Liberman any products or services that are fraudulent or misleading in nature. monthly by Family Publications New York/CNG. Subscription rate is $35 annually. Reproduction Editorial inquiries, calendar information, advertis- MAnAging editor: Vince DiMiceli of Family Publications New York in whole or part ing rates and schedules and subscription requests without written permission from the publisher is AssistAnt editors: Meredith Deliso, may be addressed to Family Publications New prohibited. All rights reserved. Copyright©2011 Courtney Donahue th York/CNG, One Metrotech Center North, 10 Readership: 220,000. 2010 circulation audit by CAC. coPy editor: Lisa J. Curtis Floor, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. cAlendAr editor: Joanna Del Buono Family Publications New York can also be contributing Writers: Risa Doherty, reached by calling (718) 250-4554, emailing Helen Klein, Allison Plitt, Candi Sparks, [email protected] or by visiting our website, Mary Carroll Wininger webfamilyny.com

4 BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY • April 2011 The Kinneret School Ranked as a top ten school based on N.Y. State tests Early Childhood Elementary • Jr. High School We incorporate the best of American & Jewish Education in an inclusive environment. On average more than 1/2 of our students are accepted into the specialized High Schools. Open House Every Friday 9-10AM—Please Call. 2600 Netherland Ave. Riverdale, NY10463 718-548-0900 Fax 718-548-0901 www.kinneretdayschool.org Looking for a ST. ANSELM SCHOOL High Quality No Cost Preschool? AppLy NOw 2011–2012 School year for pre-K (ages 3 and 4) Little Angels through Grade 8 St. Anselm School offers a safe and Head Start nurturing learning environment where students: • Pre-School for 3-4 Year Olds • Achieve academic success • Learn integrity and values in the Catholic tradition • Half & Full Day Sessions Available • Belong to a community that fosters self-confidence and school spirit • Delicious Warm Meals • Full day Pre-K (ages 3 & 4) and • Daily Extended Care Program Kindergarten until 6:00pm • Technology Program including • After school Tutoring Program SMART Boards • After school Choir and Band • Theater Arts Program programs • Fully-automated Library • Intra-Mural Athleltic Programs • Art and Music Programs for grades 6, 7 & 8 • Physical Education • Guidance & Counseling Services SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE 12 Locations Serving the Bronx & Manhattan For more information or to schedule a visit, please call the school office. we welcome special call today for more information 685 Tinton Avenue, Bronx, NY 10455 Phone: 718-993-9464 needs children 718.402.0081 (Ext. 248) www.stanselmbx.org

April 2011 • BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY 5 GREEN all year long

By Denise Morrison yearian ture. Then, dim the lights and set the — and save on gas and air quality Doing your mood with a soy or beeswax candle — with a push mower. If you can’t ledging to turn over a new, — they burn cleaner and last longer find one, opt for an electric plug-in bit for the green, leaf is a noble cause, than petroleum-based ones. model. P but maintaining that eco- friendly endeavor is even more im- March June environment portant. Here are 24 tips on how • C r e a te your own spring clean- • Before you can go green every month of ing concoctions. There are oodles leaving for — long past the year: of websites — search “green clean- vacation, un- ing” — that give recipes for natural, plug appli- January eco-friendly cleaning brews that use ances you won’t be using, and turn Earth Day • Start the New Year off right by common household items, such as down the thermostat on your air signing up for “The Green Guide,” baking soda and lemon. conditioner and water heater. an electronic newspaper. It’s a free • Celebrate the earth, as well as • Wa sh your clothes on a short, publication by National Geographic Dr. Seuss’s birthday cold cycle and hang them out to dry. featuring eco-friendly information with, “The Lorax.” This saves money, energy, and the on every facet of life (www.thegreen- Read this eco- life of your clothes and appliances. guide.com). friendly classic • S av e old holiday wrapping paper to your kids, July for later use in your garden. Sprinkle and then talk • C o n s e r v e water by washing flower seeds into the paper and bury about making your car on the lawn. Or, set a it when spring arrives. good environ- rain barrel under your downspout mental choices. and use the rain collected to water February your plants. Turn off water when • S av e recyclable items and think April you’re brushing your teeth. And, about how they can be used • I f you’re shopping for a new when you bathe the kids, for creative purposes. Before spring wardrobe, avoid trendy draw one tub full of water tossing those egg cartons, toi- clothes and opt for quality items and let them take turns let paper tubes, buttons and that will stand the test of time. Or, getting in. ribbon scraps, encourage look for gently-used apparel at resale • G e t several BPA- your child to make some- shops. You could also do a clothes free water bottles for thing for Valentine’s Day. swap with friends. each family member to • B u y your sweetheart • Start an eco-friendly endeavor in reduce landfill space a bottle of wine from a your neighborhood — participate in a and save money on local winery and support rally or sign a petition calling for more plastic bottles. Find the use of land for agricul- environmentally-sound practices. ones with a twist-off top and hook so kids May can put a nametag www.envirogadget.com Resources • W h e n you plant an organic gar- or keychain on it. Check out these green websites www.goinggreendirectory.org den, cover the soil with black-and- for more ideas: www.greencleaningnetwork.org white newspaper — it will eventually August www.ecofriendlyideas.net www.hgtv.com/green-living biodegrade — and add a layer of • Before school starts, visit a recy- www.ecomall.com www.thegreenguide.com mulch to keep weeds down. cling center or landfill, so your chil- • G e t in shape for swimsuit season dren get a first-hand look at where

6 BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY • April 2011 trash goes. Science malls on centers, natural his- Black Friday tory museums, and nature by donating centers teach kids to appreciate unused items to and protect our natural resources, the Salvation Army, too. Goodwill or another • S i g n up for one of many kid- non-profit organization. friendly environmental programs of- fered in your area. Then, go pick up December trash that has accumulated in and • F i n d an organic tree farm in around your park. make your own blood, bruises, your area or go with a or scabs with kitchen items, such local farmer who can September onto your computer and create a as cornstarch, syrup, shortening, tell you what kind of • Start a zero-waste lunch pro- screensaver. cornmeal and food coloring. pesticides he used. gram in your school and encourage When purchasing families to pack trash-free lunches October November lights, go with an in the coming year — instead of • L o o k for drafty areas in your • Stop by yard sales or thrift LED option that using mini bags home and address it by installing stores to find holi- doesn’t pro- and bottles, weather stripping or caulk where day toys and save duce heat; it’ll we buy items needed, and using plastic sheets or money and land- run on one- in bulk and thermal drapes to cover your win- fill space. When tenth the en- place them dows. Also, keep your thermostat you do purchase ergy of con- in reusable turned down several degrees, and something, look ventional lights and containers. You insulate your hot water heater. for eco-friendly won’t present the can pack cloth • L e t your kids items. Or, give an fire risk of traditional bulbs. napkins, too. rummage through alternative gift: • S av e on paper, ribbon and tape • P u t your child’s old artwork your closet or sponsor an ani- by not wrapping all the gifts from to good use: have him select sev- visit a thrift store mal from a local Santa. eral theme-related ones and create to see what kind zoo or aquarium or adopt one from a book. Place the best pieces in of Halloween cos- www.worldwildlife.org. Denise Morrison Yearian is the for- frames, cut and laminate them to tumes they can • K e e p in step with the holiday mer editor of two parenting magazines use as bookmarks, or scan them create. You can spirit and out of crowded shopping and the mother of three children.

April 2011 • BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY 7 Family Publications New York once again multiple award winners at recent competition

arenting Publications of Schools GuideFebruary 2010 BRONX CatholicFREE America (PPA) gave out 365 P Editorial and Design Compe- tition awards to 72 parenting maga- Familywww.familyresourceny.com zines and websites at a banquet on Doubling up! March 5, 2011, the climax of the Managing the cost of multiples three-day PPA Annual Convention in Arlington, Va. PPA’s Editorial and Design Awards Competition recognizes excellence in journalism, photography and design achieved by publishers, editors, writ- ers and designers at member publica- tions. Prof. Daryl Moen of the Univer- sity of Missouri’s School of Journal- Where to go in February? Check out our Going Places ism coordinated the annual contest. A panel of 25 judges reviewed 915 Our gold-winning cover entries to choose the winners in each category. All judges have had signifi- Doherty were honored in the presti- cant professional experience. gious category of Investigative Re- Our Family Publications New York porting a SILVER Award for “Hidden were again honored to hear our titles Danger in the Suburbs, Driveway Publisher Susan Weiss, PPA President Joanna Love, and Linda Smith, Family called in five categories. Backovers.” The judge’s comments, Publications New York In the Design Competitions, a “This article examines the tragedy of GOLD Award in Front Cover Design driveway backup deaths of children. was awarded to BRONX/RIVER- Using local cases, the writer goes DALE FAMILY for the Doubling Up, into depth and explains how govern- the February 2010 cover. Publisher ment agencies and parent activists and PPA Vice President Susan Weiss are trying to prevent future deaths.” and Art Director Leah Mitch shared Publisher and PPA Vice-President the honors for their collaboration in Susan Weiss and our representative this design effort. The judge’s com- from our latest magazine, and soon ments, “All the elements work on this to be newcomer to PPA, Staten Is- cover — the right image, the right land Family, Linda Smith proudly ac- (Left to right) Contributing Writers Joan Emerson, Mary Carroll Wininger and Risa type choice for the headline and the cepted on behalf of our publications simple color choices. The printing is Doherty and Staff Writer Tiziana Rinaldi. at the dinner and ceremony. excellent and a cover like this would “The purpose of the PPA awards stand out on the rack.” meaningful way.” “Happy & Gay in Jackson Heights,” competition is to encourage a high In the Editorial Categories, a Another BRONZE Award went to in the category of Interview. The level of journalistic performance and BRONZE Award, in the category of BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY and judge’s comments, “This story high- service to communities by recog- Column, Family Matters, was given staff writer Tiziana Rinaldi for Col- lights the unique challenges facing nizing editorial excellence and out- to BROOKLYN FAMILY and our con- umns, Family Fun. The judge’s com- gay families as they search for the standing visual presentation in par- tributing writer, Joan Emerson. The ments, “Intensely local features that right neighborhood to raise their enting publications,” said PPA Execu- judge’s comments, “Parents reading inform readers of events in their own children. The writer does a good job tive Director C. James Dowden. these columns found useful infor- communities…..lots of good detail of letting the parents tell their story. Headquartered in Los Angeles, PPA mation about how to cope with a and evidence of reporting on display, The background information about is a nonprofit national organization new baby in a new marriage and as well as some solid writing.” the different neighborhoods adds representing more than 116 parent- how couples can successfully com- Also in the Editorial Categories, depth to the story. Good interview- ing magazines and newspapers in the municate. The writer did a good a SILVER Award went to QUEENS ing and writing. United States, Canada and Australia. job of providing information that FAMILY and contributing writer And finally, once again QUEENS For more information about PPA visit addresses everyday problems in a Mary Carroll Wininger for an article FAMILY and contributing writer Risa www.parentingpublications.org. 8 BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY • April 2011 Creating real OppOrtunities fOr learning At The Shield Institute we have special expertise supporting children with autism spectrum disorders and their families. We offer special education, diagnostic and clinical services in our two preschool programs in Queens and in the Bronx. Additionally we provide family workshops to our parents with children with ASD and to others parents in our surrounding communities. The Shield Institute is affiliated with the Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services and is a member of the United Way.

Free Parent Workshops (Spanish translation is available for all workshops) May Workshops May 12th Location: 1800 Andrews Ave., Bronx, NY 10453 Sensory Issues with Young Children with Autism Presenter: Lindsey Biel - Occupational Therapist Time: 9:45am to Noon

June Workshops June 2nd Location: 1800 Andrews Ave., Bronx, NY 10453 Family and Sibling Issues When Raising a Child with Autism Presenter: Debbie Meringolo Time: 9:45am to 12:00pm If you are interested in attending any of these workshops free of charge please contact Laura Villa at 718-939-8700 x1167 (Laura is bilingual Spanish) These workshops are made possible by a grant provided by the New York City Council, Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

April 2011 • BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY 9 Around town Fresh kills The ultimate green makeover

By Monica Brown

hen Gaylord Nelson, then a senator from Wisconsin, W conceived the green move- ment back on the first Earth Day in 1970, chances are he never dreamed that the world’s largest garbage dump could one day be converted into — of all things — a 2,200 acre park three times the size of Central Park. But that’s just what is happen- ing, as plans have been in the works to convert the Fresh Kills Landfill on Staten Island into a park since shortly after its closure in 2001. It’s considered the largest landfill-to- park conversion in the country, ac- Families can get their first glimpse of Schmul Park and Playground this fall. cording to the New York City Parks Department. burden to Staten Island, to become will continue until the amount of gas In fact, the re-christened it “Fresh- a place that Staten Islanders can be produced by the landfill is too small kills Park” — now in its planning proud of, and which people from all to sell, and then it will be burned off stages — will be the largest park over the city and all over the world at flare stations on the grounds. developed in New York City in more will want to come see.” Staten Island Borough President than 100 years. James P. Molinaro has also proposed Talk about restoring balance to Five parks in one the construction of a wind farm at the nature. The full project will take another site, calling the idea “economically “There’s been incredible invest- 25 years to complete, but Freshkills and technologically sustain[able]” at ment by the city,” says Eloise Hirsh, Park is being transformed as we the “only location in New York City” the administrator of the park. “[It’s] speak. where such a farm could go. great engineering on the part of the The plan is for its five main areas Department of Sanitation that really — The Confluence, the North Park, recreation and allows this place, which was a huge the South Park, the East Park and family life the West Park — to focus on pro- The city’s plan for Freshkills Park gramming (sports and recreational is an ambitious one — it includes activities), wildlife (ecological res- horseback riding, mountain biking, History toration) and circulation (a massive kayaking, picnic grounds and skate The Fresh Kills Landfill was opened by the city in 1948 with the network of paths, waterways and paths. Visitors will be able to travel promise that it would be in operation for three years. Fifty-three years roads to and from the West Shore through the park by bicycle, canoe, later, it finally closed. Expressway that will connect the on horseback, on foot, or by car. By 1996, as Staten Islander’s protest movement to close the dump entire park). Waterfront space will be converted had begun to grow, then-Borough President Guy Molinari filed a fed- Hirsh says the park will have an into restaurants; a visitor center and eral lawsuit against the city claiming the dump’s hills — widely be- emphasis on environmental sustain- a large event lawn will be available lieved to be viewable from space — violated the Clean Air Act because ability. The Department of Sanitation for formal gatherings. And if the bor- of the methane gas they were emitting. is already harvesting methane gas ough president has his way, winter Islanders rejoiced when a federal judge ruled that the landfill had to from the decomposing refuse and sports would be a big draw, too: he be closed by Jan. 1, 2002. selling it to National Grid. So far, it’s envisions mini ski slopes, where chil- On March 22, 2001, Fresh Kills took in its last load of city waste. After enough energy to heat 22,000 homes dren could sleigh ride, tube sled, and the terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001, a portion of the area was used as on Staten Island, and the city makes learn how to ski. a sorting ground for rubble left in the attack’s wake. $12 million a year from the sale of “There are so many opportuni- the gas. That gas recovery and sale ties,” Molinaro says. 10 BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY • April 2011 There have been some delays summer, when the refuse cooked in of fill on top of the garbage that’s left. The planned modification of the along the way. The area known as the hot sun. On top of those fill layers, sits an im- Staten Island Fresh Kills Landfill into a the Owl Hollow Soccer Field is re- Even the Borough President calls permeable liner — a very thick cover park is considered the largest landfill- portedly sinking, and the Parks De- the transformation nothing short of that’s anchored over the fill. to-park conversion in the country. partment says it’s working with the incredible. “And then on top of that liner, contractor to solve the problem, de- “This was a tragedy and a half,” he there’s another two and a half feet spite ballooning costs. says, referring to the length of time of residential grade clean soil. That’s Hirsh quips that while none of the the landfill remained open. “There what the public will be walking on,” specific plans are “moving quickly,” was no permit at the time. There was explains Hirsh. everything is headed in the right no liner back then. This was a toxic But talk is cheap. For Staten Is- direction. waste dump … it’s almost a miracle. landers to truly embrace this con- Come autumn, families can get We’re taking the world’s largest land- cept, she says, they need to see the their first glimpse of Schmul Park and fill and turning it into the largest play beginning stages of the re-building Playground — scheduled to open in land in the city. That’s amazing. If for themselves. the Travis section of the site. It’s cur- someone blindfolded you, and said Hirsh says that now, 10 years after rently under construction, and when we want you to guess where you are, the official closure of Fresh Kills, a it’s finished, it will serve as an entry you’d never guess. In some sections tour could be eye-opening. point to the park. up there, you’ll see deer, all kinds of “The wildlife has come back,” she birds, rabbits. It’s incredible.” says. “It’s really a very eloquent state- Is it safe? While Hirsh agrees that the eco- ment about the power of nature.” Thousands of Staten Islanders logical landscape is undergoing a mi- Bus tours of the site are available have become curious about the raculous transformation (and she did on select Saturdays at 10 am and 1 plans, says Hirsh, turning out in confirm that deer have been spotted), pm from April through November. For droves to attend various events at she says nothing in the landfill was ac- more information, visit www.nyc.gov/ the site. tually toxic, and that there were pro- parks. To visit the Freshkills Park blog, Still, some may find the park con- tective systems in place to deal with visit freshkillspark.wordpress.com. cept difficult to embrace. Many resi- leakage back then. Now, there are Monica Brown is a cable television dents can remember the sickening more stringent regulations in place anchor who lives on Staten Island with stench of Fresh Kills when it was at that the city must adhere to, before her husband and her two children. She its peak — taking in 1,000 tons of the public can have access to the site. can be reached at monicaldbrown@ garbage an hour — especially in the Currently, there are several layers gmail.com April 2011 • BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY 11 Parenting Boost self-esteem pimple used to put a wrench stars. Both of these scenarios can be • L i m i t activities if overload is in my entire day when I was a destructive if taken too far. causing stress A teenager. That one little red “Wanting to fit in and look like Facing failures spot would cause all kinds of insecu- other kids is part of adolescence. It’s inevitable that your teen will rities, and I would head out to school However, this desire can lead to experience failure. It is how she feeling ugly, even if, just hours ear- stress and to unhealthy behaviors,” learns to handle it that’s important. lier, I was feeling like a movie star. warns Wendy Grolnick, PhD, author Teach her how to put failure in per- Insecurity regarding physical ap- of “Pressured Parents, Stressed-Out spective, and that learning from dis- Lions and pearance is not the only esteem Kids” (Prometheus Books, 2007) appointment is a path to becoming a downer for teens. There are other and director of the Frances L. Hiatt better person. tigers and issues that can cause your teen to School of Psychology and Education Constructive criticism is effective feel less than valuable, and some at Clark University. Parents need to if you focus on the action, not the teens may have long-term effects. Being help their teens put appearance in person. You might say, “I know you Myrna Beth haskell cut from the team, a break-up with perspective. could have done better on that exam a significant other, or rejection from “Parents can help their teens by if you had studied more,” instead of, the college she’s hoped to attend stressing and modeling the impor- “You have no work ethic.” since the second grade can be cata- tance of a healthy lifestyle — healthy Parents should also communicate lysts to self-loathing. eating and exercise,” advises Grol- that there is no such thing as perfec- Your teen’s mood is all over the nick. tion, and that putting in your best place to begin with, so what’s a par- Mothers who complain about effort is a goal worth attaining. ent to do when her teen’s esteem their looks or their weight are set- Grolnick says that decreased en- seemingly plunges into a black hole? ting bad examples for their young gagement in pleasurable activities, daughters. Parents with positive increased time alone, frequent stom- reflection in the self-images help their teens learn achaches or headaches, and persis- mirror by example, which is more effective tent negative self-statements could Many teens believe that “fitting than merely telling your teen to feel be signs that your teen’s negative in” is synonymous with “looking good about herself. self-image has spiraled out of con- like.” Some adolescents try to con- trol. Parents who believe this to be form to a desired crowd by physi- Building up the case should seek professional cally dressing and acting like those Parental expectations and criti- help. in the group, while others might try cism can be damaging to a teen who to emulate fashion models or movie is already insecure. Parents should tips and tales remember to focus on “I tell my girls to always give their their teen’s accomplish- best. This way, they won’t have re- ments, not their failures. grets later. I also tell them that I may “Given our very com- get disappointed at times, but that petitive environment, will never change the fact that I will teens are under immense always love them.” pressure to live up to Julie Miller, Hopewell Junction, NY their own and others’ “It’s important to be involved standards,” says Grolnick. in a group that is doing something “This pressure can lead positive, such as sports teams, mu- teens to ultimately ques- sical groups, church, or the school tion themselves and their newspaper.” adequacy.” Tricia Ramos, Hyde Park, NY Parents shouldn’t add to the pressure their teen Share your ideas is under by pushing too Upcoming topic: Summertime hard. Instead, Grolnick equals “freedom” for teens. Any spe- suggests the following for cial rules for your teen during summer encouraging a positive months, when things are more lax? self-image: Please send your full name, address, • Help your teen formu- and brief comments to myrnahaskell@ late realistic goals and ex- gmail.com, or visit www.myrnahaskell. pectations com. • Fo c u s on the process Myrna Beth Haskell is a feature writer of your teen’s endeavors, and columnist specializing in parent- rather than the outcome ing issues and child and adolescent • Te a c h your teen multi- development. She is the mother of two ple ways to be successful teenagers.

12 BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY • April 2011 Party Directory

Applebee’s Birthday and Westchester County, our pri- vate and semi-private dining spaces Parties can accommodate from 20-150 Group Sales Team guests to join in on the fun. We Birthday Parties 888-244-4022 or 212-262-4022 or have partnered with Mad Science www.applemetrorestaurants.com of Westchester, our parties are filled or [email protected] with engaging and hands-on experi- Applebee’s Group Sales Team ments for the children to enjoy. The offers everything you need to make fun ends with food, dessert and your child’s birthday party one to plenty of celebration. For more Feature: Mad Science Show remember. With over 30 locations information contact our Group Sales • 45 minute show including dry ice bubbling potions throughout NYC, the 5 Boroughs Department. Calorie count, Big Burp, Screwdriver sizzle and Mad Science Bath • $600 for up to 20 children, $20 for each additional child. Includes 20 invitations ($12 for additional invitation) 20 goody bags • Take home slime or superball for each guest and a poster for the birthday child • Menu: Chicken Fingers, Mini Cheeseburgers, Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, Grilled Cheese. Hot dog OR Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Dessert & Soft Drink

APPLE METRO RESTAURANTS • GROUP SALES & SPECIAL EVENTS Sales Office: 205 West 50th Street • New York, NY 10019 (212) 262-4022 or (888) 244-4022 • Fax (212) 262-4050 www.applemetrorestaurants.com • [email protected]

Reservation and Full Payment required in advance. 1 chaperon per every 10 children. Adult will pay for all food and beverages on consumption. The above pricing and/or package does not include Adults. Please keep in mind that space in all of our restaurants are limited and subject to availability 100% Full Payment and signed contract rider is required to secure Applebee’s and Mad Science Birthday party. Once service is schedule. Space is allocated and a Mad Science is scheduled for this event all monies paid will be non-refundable. Mad Science reserves the right to reschedule parties due to inclement weather in order to preserve the safety of their instructors

All At A ReAsonAble PRice (718) 441-5764 ADVERTISE (718) 441-7796 www.allinoneentertainment.com Clowns • Magicians • Cartoon Characters Brand New DJ Service • Arts & Crafts PARTY ROOM All Types of Bounce • Face Painting Sand/ w/Soft Play Area Spin Art • Balloon Artists WITH US! Private Events • and much more!!! WEEkdAy SPEciAl STArTS AT $9000 BROOKLYN QUEENS BRONX STATEN ISLAND Family Family Family Family 95-25 Jamaica Ave, Woodhaven, NY 11421

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April 2011 • BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY 13 camps

reasons camp is so important othing says summer quite the age of 5 are considered obese. trate and think more clearly. In some like camp. A rite of passage According to the Association’s re- instances, camp may be the only N for most kids, it offers them search, 63 percent of children who time a child is in contact with the the opportunity to have fun and learn new activities at camp tend to natural world. 5 make new friends. Here are five more continue engaging in those activities things going to camp does for a after returning home. Encourages play child: At camp, children are encour- Keeps their minds aged to be kids by playing in a safe changes kids for the sharp and nurturing environment. Play better All camps understand the criti- is a powerful form of learning that Research from the American cal role they play in helping young contributes mightily to the child’s Camp Association has confirmed people learn and grow. Many offer healthy physical, emotional, social, that children who go to camp have programs that help reduce summer and intellectual development. Ac- experiences that will help them as learning loss, bolster academic en- cording to an American Academy of adults. The research found that 96 richment and socialization, provide Pediatrics report, creative free play percent of campers questioned said opportunities for leadership devel- protects a child’s emotional develop- that going to camp helped them opment, and ensure that campers ment and reduces the risk of stress, make new friends, and 93 percent achieve their full potential. anxiety, and depression. said that they got to know kids who There is a summer camp program were different from them. Ninety- Gets them to unplug for every child that will build skills, two percent said going to camp in- According to a study by two Cor- friendships and memories that will creased their self-esteem, and 74 nell University environmental psy- last a lifetime. percent said they gained the courage chologists, being close to nature — To find the right camp for your child, to try things they were at first afraid and away from technology — can visit www.campwizard.org, or call (800) to do. help boost a child’s attention span. 777-CAMP for free, one-on-one advice Additionally, a study conducted by in finding a summer camp. American Gets them moving England’s University of Essex con- Camp Association-accreditation is a par- Going to camp provides children cluded that nature can help people ent’s best evidence of a camp’s commit- with the opportunity to try new recover from pre-existing stresses ment to health and safety, and ensures things and participate in human- or problems, has an immunizing ef- that children are provided with a diver- powered activities. An estimated 22 fect that can protect from future sity of educational and developmentally- million of the world’s children under stresses, and helps people concen- challenging learning opportunities.

14 BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY • April 2011 college of Mount Saint Vincent Horace Mann Day caMp

Campers will 6 Week camp Enjoy a June 27th - august 5th 3 CAMP Summer age 5-11 - Grades pre-K - 7th EXPERIENCES AVAILABLE filled with GAMES, SPORTS CAMP: SWIMMING, July 11-15, July 18-22, July 25-29 SPORTS, Boys & Girls Ages 7-15 Monday-Friday • Hours: 9am-3pm TRIPS & so much BASKETBALL CAMP: August 1-5 • Boys & Girls Ages 7-15 more! Hours: 9am-3pm VOLLEYBALL CAMP: August 15-19 Boys & Girls Volleyball Limited Hours: 9am-4pm - Grades 8-12 Spaces SEND PAYMENT AND REGISTRATION TO: COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT Still ATTN: BRIAN NIGRO 6301 RIVERDALE AVENUE Available! RIVERDALE, NY 10471 Questions, Please contact Brian Nigro 718-4053415 or email [email protected] For addtional information please call 718-432-3823 6301 RIVERDALE AVENUE • 718-4053415 or Visit our website: www.horacemann.org. Go to ‘Quicklinks’ and select ‘Summer programs’. click on Day camp.

WillW your child spend their summer in the real world or a virtual oone? Step away from the video games and into Oasis Dobbs FerryF at Mercy College Campus! OasisO Dobbs Ferry offers boys and girls ages 4-11 a summer experience uunrivaled by even the most expensive private day camp programs. With many varied activities, campers enjoy a safe, nurturing environment, where they ������������������ ��������������������������������������������������������� � Many Special Events������������������������������������������� trips, “Halloween Day,” fashion designs and much more � Experienced Counselors: dedicated role models & mentors college age and older � 1:6 Counselor to Camper ratio: children are always supervised and attended � Expansive Facility���������������������������������������� courts, an outdoor swimming pool, nature trails and much more � Bus & Shuttle Service: available for pick-ups & drop-offs at Information sessions are being held select locations in your area—register today! � Popular Teen Travel Program: for 12-14 year olds To RSVP, visit: ���������������������������������������������������������������� www.OasisChildren.com/events.php Oasis Dobbs Ferry at Mercy College Campus Better than video games!

OR Reserve your spot today and SAVE! www.OasisChildren.com CALL 800-317-1392

April 2011 • BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY 15 Bronx House School for Performing Arts Camp & Activities Directory

Bronx House School The College of Mount Saint Vincent for Performing Arts will be holding three weeks of Sports Camps; July 11-15th, July 18th-22nd, Musical Theater Summer July 25th-29th. Program A week of Basketball Camp is offered 990 Pelham Parkway South August 1st-5th, and a week of NEW!!! Summer 2011 718-792-1800 ext. 235 or www. Volleyball Camp is offered August bronxhouse.org 11th-15th this summer. This new program is for kids who love Campers will enjoy a brand new Musical Theater Program to sing, dance, or perform! Included indoor facility, while under the direc- are 4 hours a day of instruction in Serving children entering 3rd to 8th grades tion of college coaches and staff. singing, dancing and acting, and as of September ‘11 classes in theater games and improv. The Sports Camp and Basketball Instructors are trained professionals Camps are open to boys and girls ages who are also accomplished educators. 7-15. Headed by Men’s Basketball Two three-week sessions culminate Coach Brian Nigro, campers will learn in musical theater productions for the basics of the game while improv- family and friends. Also included is a ing skills and most importantly having trip to a Broadway or off-Broadway fun. production and swim in the indoor The Volleyball Camp, under the direc- pool. The program is open to any child tion of Head Coach Jason Torres, with an interest in the performing is open to boys and girls entering arts who is entering 3rd to 8th grade 8th through 12th grade looking for in September 2011. All skill levels are enhancing their volleyball skills. welcome, no previous experience is Mount Saint Vincent campus is conve- necessary, however a passion for the niently accessible to public transporta- arts is required. Parents must provide tion from Westchester, the Bronx and daily lunch. Full 6 Week Session Manhattan locations. Children’s Bible For more information, or questions • Tuesday, July 5 – Friday, August 12 please feel free to contact Brian Nigro. Fellowship Camp Joy 250 Nimham Rd., Carmel Horace Mann Summer 845 225-2005 x212 or www.cbfny. org Camp 3 Week Sessions Available Camp Joy provides a safe, fun and 231 West 246th Street • Tuesday, July 5 – Friday, July 22 spirit filled camp experience for chil- 718-432-3823 or www. dren and youth. We are located in horacemann.org beautiful Carmel NY, just 50 miles The Horace Mann Day Camp, is cur- • Monday, July 25 – Friday, August 12 North of the Bronx. At $65 per ses- rently celebrating it’s 41st Anniversary! sion, you will not be sorry and your During the years the camp has pro- Each 3-week session will culminate in a children will thank you for all the vided children with summers full of fun and memories that they receive. fun, adventure and lasting memories. musical theater production! Register online or call for openings. The camp is located on 18 hilltop Transportation from Manhattan pro- acres in the Riverdale section of the vided. Bronx. The campus offers excellent Singing Dancing Acting facilities, such as various playing fields, Children’s Bible a brand new playground, indoor gym- Theater Games Improv Swimming Fellowship Teen Camp nasiums and swimming pool as well as 7 tennis courts. Campers enjoy a Field Trips to NYC Theater Productions 845-225-2005 EXT 207 or www. spectacular array of activities in athlet- cbfny.org ics, arts and crafts, swimming, gym- Early and late care available for an additional fee. Camp Joy has been working with nastics and performing arts! Weekly Bus pick-up & drop off available in limited areas. children and teens for over 60 years. trips and special events are included. We offer a great camping experience The program offers two sessions: Six for the inner-city youth. Challenging weeks from June 27st thru August truth, engaging fun and a life time 5th. The day begins at 9:00 a.m. and of memories! Register online or call Call 718-792-1800 ext. 236 ends at 4:00 p.m. Transportation for openings. Transportation from is available. Camp Director Bob Manhattan provided. for prices and further information Annunziata is proud of his dedicated professional staff most of whom have Bronx House College of Mount Saint been with the camp for numerous Vincent Boys & Girls years. They include faculty from the 990 Pelham Parkway South • Bronx, NY 10461 Camps Horace Mann community, college stu- (718) 792-1800 ext. 236 • (718) 792-6802 fax 6301 Riverdale Ave dents and past campers. Director: Brian Nigro If you need additional information, www.bronxhouse.org 718-405-3415 or e-mail Brian. one of their staff will be happy to help [email protected] you. 16 BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY • April 2011 Camp & Activities Directory

Mosholu Montefiore or www.ymcanyc.org/catalpa Community Center Day Cross Island YMCA 238-10 Hillside Camp Avenue, Bellerose; 718-479-0505 3450 Dekalb Avenue or www.ymcanyc.org/cross 718-882-4000 or www.mmcc.org Flushing YMCA 138-46 Northern Mosholu provides children with a tra- Boulevard., Flushing; 718-961-6880 Days Filled with FUN, FUN, FUN! or www.ymcanyc.org/flushing ditional camping experience. Children Field Trips to Movies, For Boys & Girls, 4 - 14 participate in hundreds of activities Sportime USA, Bowling... Jamaica YMCA 89-25 Parsons 2 - 8 Week Programs throughout the summer and leave Boulevard, Jamaica; 718-739-6600 Sports & Games, Operated By with memories that last a lifetime. or www.ymcanyc.org/jamaica Swimming, Soccer, Licensed Teachers & Basketball... Administrators Our campers are picked up in the Long Island City YMCA 32-23 Bronx and Southern Westchester and Arts & Crafts, Face Painting, We Accept All Queens Boulevard., LIC; 718-392- Talent Shows... Union Rates are driven to our campgrounds in 7932 or www.ymcanyc.org/lic Pearl River, New York. Campgrounds And More!!! are located on a beautiful 125 acre 214-13 35th Avenue in Bayside facility with 4 pools, a boating lake, 718-229-5972, Beacon Center at gorgeous streams, hiking trails and JHS 189 ball fields. At camp, children par- 154-60 17th Avenue, Whitestone Call Now For Information ticipate in activities from Archery to 718-961-6014; Beacon Center at On Our Next nature, art, drama, all kinds of sports, JHS 194 OPEN HOUSE! swimming twice a day including 144-80 Barclay Avenue, Flushing instruction and trip program. 718-747-1364; Beacon Center @ CALL 1-914-792-6555 or Campers entering Kindergarten-6th MS210 grade visit our camp grounds, while 1-800-DAYCAMP 7th - 10th graders travel each day in 93-11 101st Avenue, Ozone Park our Teen Trailways Camp on Wheels. 718-659-7710 YMCA of Greater New York Day OASIS IN DOBBS FERRY Camps provide youth with supervised AT MERCY COLLEGE activities that teach core values, con- flict resolution and leadership skills. 555 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10533 Kids have fun while making new 718-596-4900 or email: info@ friends, building self-confidence, oasischildren.com or www. appreciating teamwork and growing oasischildren.com in self-reliance. Oasis at Dobbs Ferry is a great opportu- Their program includes playing games, nity to get children active this summer! arts & crafts, exploring science and Located on the Mercy College Campus, technology, swimming, field trips, Oasis provides a traditional camp expe- appreciating nature and values of rience with a variety of activities that many cultures. allow kids to learn new ways to express All camps are accredited by the their individuality, leadership and cre- American Camping Association. ativity. Mercy College provides access to phenomenal athletic facilities including Registration for Summer 2011 will be playing fields, tennis courts, basket- beginning soon. ball courts , an outdoor swimming Please contact your nearest YMCA of pool, nature trails and much more- all Greater New York Day Camp for more against the picturesque backdrop of the information. Hudson River. Oasis at Dobbs Ferry is the perfect opportunity for children to Young People’s Day have an active and safe summer while making lifelong friends along the way! Camp Teen Travel program gives emerging 914-792-6555 or 800-DAYCAMP; teens the opportunity to take a unique www.ypdc.com trip every day. Oasis Teen Travel is Young People’s Day Camp has been offered exclusively for 12-14 year olds. “creating childhood memories” for At Oasis, children enroll for a minimum boys and girls ages 5-14, since 1973. of two consecutive weeks, a maximum Accredited by the American Camping of eight weeks, or any combination you Association, YPDC offers free trans- choose. Families have the advantage to portation, swimming instruction, enroll their children around their sum- sports, activities, arts & crafts, min- mer plans, we offer flexible schedules. iature golf, music, drama, dance and weekly field trips. YMCA of Greater New Parents can choose from two-eight York Day Camps week sessions at a most affordable Catalpa Center YMCA 69-02 64th fee. Street, Ridgewood; 718-821-6271 Ask about our next open house. April 2011 • BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY 17 www.webfamilyny.comwww.familyresourceny.com

Are you ... sLooking for family friendly activities? s Wanting to connect with other parents? s)nterested in parent focused articles to inform and intrique? g Our growing Web Community is waiting for you! Places to post, vote and have your voices heard too. Check It Out Today!

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18 BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY • April 2011 around town

than 10 years, is the facility’s su- pervisor. Bronx House for the Performing Make some music Arts also offers year-round dance and music classes — including piano, guitar, voice, violin, drums, Bronx recording studio now open to all and more — for all ages. The school offers scholarships to o you have dreams of your mixing, don’t worry. The studio will students who qualify for financial musically inclined clan being take care of everything, and will assistance, and has instruments D the next Partridge Family, even get your tracks onto a CD or available for loan, free of charge. Jackson 5 — or even Rebecca Black? ready for digital distribution. Programs are supported, in part, by Whether you’re making a home During a session, you can even public funds from the New York City movie and need to score it, or want have musicians from the Bronx Department of Cultural Affairs, the to record a CD with the kids for House’s professional music faculty New York State Council on the Arts, Mother’s Day, there is now a record- — who have performance and com- and UJA Federation. The school is ing studio open to you for whatever position expertise in strings, brass, a member of the National Guild for project you’re working on. percussion and vocals — accom- Community Arts Education. The Bronx House School for Per- pany you. So whether you need Bronx House School for Perform- forming Arts’s recording studio fea- one specialized performer to fill ing Arts Recording Studio [990 Pelham tures state-of-the-art equipment out your own band, or an entire Pkwy. South in Bronxdale, (718) 792- Bronx House for the Performing Arts and a highly professional staff you group to perform and record music 1800 ext. 235]. Appointments available won’t get elsewhere. instructor Jorge Tovar supervises the for commercial use, the studio has Sundays, from 10 am to 5 pm, and The studio offers professional new facility. you covered. Sessions can be tai- weekdays, from 5 to 9 pm. Fee for Bronx sound and music production ser- lored according to your needs and House members is $50 per hour (three vices, including 24-track digital pro- almost any project: from a personal budget. hour minimum). For non-members, $65 duction, music arranging, scoring, single to voice-overs and jingles, Music school instructor Jorge per hour (three hour minimum). Addi- midi sequencing, audio for film and and even sound effects and TV Tovar, who has worked as a music tional fees for composition and studio video, and voice-over production. scores. programmer, arranger, composer, musicians at negotiable rates. For more The facility is equipped to handle If you don’t have any experience and engineer at studios for more information, visit www.bronxhouse.org.

Providing Therapy Services To Children & Families

Occupational Therapy (Sensory Integration & Writing w/o Tears) Physical Therapy • Speech Therapy Feeding Therapy • Nutritional Services Special Education • Social Work Psychology

Pediatric Therapy Clinic servicing children between the ages of birth to 21-years. Irma J. Pereira, OTR/L, CEO President

1120 Morris Park Ave • Suite 2B • Bronx, NY 10461 • T: 718.409.6977 • F: 718.409.6946

Find Family online at www.webfamilyny.com

April 2011 • BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY 19 Finances Get more for less Tips on how By Candi SparkS n this bad economy, it’s no se- to save on cret that families are struggling I financially. Some have realized that they can do without the extras, entertainment but others are finding creative ways to save on entertainment, summer camp, vacations, and much more. and more Here are some tips to stave off feeling deprived of the things you love, and how to get more for less without losing your sanity. Low-cost entertainment Susan, a mother of two in Manhat- tan, loves reading bestsellers and discussing them with her book club. But, she admits, in the current econ- omy, it’s hard to keep up. “I can no longer afford to pay re- tail for the latest books,” says Susan. So, rather than do without, she has found a way to keep reading recently published material at an affordable price. She recommends shopping for bestsellers at BOM2.com’s book-of- the-month club, which she uses to get hers for $9.99. “They might not have the most up-to-date stuff, but it is cheaper than retail, and they have enough current material to satisfy my crav- ing,” she says. “Start a book club, and buy one or two copies of the books and cir- culate them, giving everyone a week to read it and pass it along,” suggests Susan. “When everyone in the club is ommends that budget-conscious Using Netflix allows Deborah to done, you can discuss it.” theatre-goers get a subscription to watch an unlimited number of mov- She says that sharing expenses audienceextras.com ies, as many times as she wants to, and the reading material helps con- “For an $80 annual subscription, I for $8.99 a month. nect the book club members on can get tickets to a Broadway show “If your computer is hooked up to many levels: they are keeping the for $5,” she says. “Sometimes I have your TV screen, it is even better. You cost of being in the book club low, to wait for the show I want, but it is can watch the movies from the com- finishing books on time, and the dis- the only way I can afford to go to the fort of your own couch,” she adds. cussions that follow are lively. theatre. The bonus is that I can take Deborah also recommends taking Carla, a former actress and mother my son to dinner and a show. We advantage of pay-tv companies’ of- of a special needs child in the Bronx, couldn’t do this at full price.” fers for “free weekends.” has figured out a way to enjoy the- And Deborah, a Queens mother of atre at an affordable price. five, saves money by watching mov- saving on summer “It’s tough to live in New York and ies at home. camp not go to the theatre,” she says, so “Netflix has movies on demand that One of the biggest challenges a she finds discounted tickets at up you can watch on your home com- family can face is finding affordable to 50 percent off the retail price on puter, which is cheaper than going to summer camps. theatremania.com. Carla also rec- [the movie theater],” she explains. Stephanie, a single mom in Brook-

20 BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY • April 2011 lyn, wanted to send her son Emile owner ships it to them and in turn to a private school summer camp, receives a “credit” toward an item but couldn’t afford it. By the time that he wants. You can swap CDs, Looking for fun she saved the money, she was told DVDs, electronics, furniture, fish it was already at capacity. tanks, and anything else that can She felt as if “someone had shut be shipped. with the kids? the door on my face. So I decided to try to find something in my own Fabulous freebies backyard, closer to home.” Manhattanite Lynn has found Stephanie found that some par- an easy way to find what she likes ents of her son’s classmates were without having to pay for any of it. WIN in similar situations, so she and “Free can put some fun back into the other parents started their own your life,” she says. camp for the kids aged 9–11 in their So Lynn shops online at web- backyards. The parents agreed to sites that have freebies on a reg- TICKETS take turns hosting and supervising ular basis, like FantasticFreebies. the kids. They not only gave the com, groupon.com, and goldstar. kids time to play together, but also com. She says you can also find For you & came up with an array of activi- what you want by typing “yogurt” ties, supervised trips, and reading and “freebies” into your search your family (4) materials. This parent-organized engine. By searching online she’s camp alternative, which is now in gotten free fabric softener, coffee its fourth year, is not only a money and make-up. She’s also been able to local saver, but a way for the families to to take free classes, which she says know each other better. is a great way to socialize and net- family friendly work. Save on savings shows accounts Save on insurance “Saving is the new spending, and premiums Visit our website we are becoming a more frugal There are a few ways you can www.webfamilyny.com society,” says Martin, a dad in the save money on your insurance and Bronx. Some people are buying credit cards. and register to win bargains and saving the extra cash “If you want to save money on for emergencies and other unex- car insurance, and avoid paying pected expenses. high interest rates for credit cards But if they are putting their and loans, then work on improving money in a traditional bank sav- your credit score,” advises Henson, ings account, they should beware. a single dad from Staten Island who These savings accounts can actu- works in the financial services in- Attention All Writers! ally cost money in fees and penal- dustry. “By paying bills on time and ties. They’re not money makers, keeping your credit card balance at We’re looking for either. With current interest rates 50 percent of the maximum or less, so low, a modest $50 bonus is the you can improve your credit score, personal essays equivalent of 10 years’ worth of re- which puts you in a better position about you, your family and life turns on a $1,000 savings account to negotiate with lenders.” with a .5 interest rate. He also suggests using automatic in your community. As an alternative, online banks bill payments to avoid late fees and offer higher interest rates, and taking a driver safety course to many offer a cash bonus for open- further reduce the cost of car in- Partner with us and share your ing a savings account. Several on- surance. line banks also offer financial in- “[You] have to drive safely,” Hen- stories and your memories. centives like free checking and do son added. “That is the best way to not require a minimum balance for get a good rate with all of the auto qualified customers. insurers.” Email [email protected] to • • • Don’t spend when While the economy may not be have your piece included in our you can swap improving any time soon, it’s a Why spend money at all when relief to know that you have the magazine and on our website. you can swap your unwanted items power to help your family con- for something that you actually tinue to enjoy the things they love want? by finding some creative ways to Swapping is sweeping the coun- save. try, as major websites like Ama- Candi Sparks, is the author of the zon.com, Craigslist.com, Paper- “Can I Have Some Money?” children’s BackSwap.com, and others help money book series, and a mom of people barter with each other. It’s two in Brooklyn. She is available on easy: an owner lists an item on the Facebook and Twitter (Candi Sparks, website, and when an interested writer) and on You Tube (Canihave- person signs up for the item, the somemoney). April 2011 • BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY 21 Going Places

Long-running The orchid show: New York Bo- Submit a listing tanical Garden, Southern Boulevard Going Places is dedicated to between Bronx River Parkway and East bringing our readers the most comprehensive events calendar Fordham Road; (718) 817-8700; Tues- in your area. But to do so, we days – Sundays, 10 am-6 pm, Fri, April need your help! 1 – Mon, April 25; $20 ($18 seniors/stu- All you have to do is send dents; $8 children 2 through 12). your listing request to calendar@ Enjoy the dazzling display of iconic el- cnglocal.com — and we’ll take ements from legendary theaters created care of the rest. Please e-mail out of orchids. requests more than three weeks prior to the event to ensure we “Dora and Diego’s 4-D Adven- have enough time to get it in. ture”: Bronx Zoo, Bronx River Parkway And best of all, it’s FREE! at Exit 6; (718) 220-5103; www.bronx- zoo.com; Daily, 10:30 am–4:30 pm, $5 with zoo admission. Wilderness workshop: Crotona Dora and Diego need your help to Nature Center, Crotona Park, enter at protect the animals in the rain forest. Charlotte Street and Crotona Park East; Children of all ages enjoy this 8 to 10- (718) 378-2061; www.nyc.gov/parks/ minute long, 4-D, multi-sensory journey. rangers; 1 pm; Free. Learn the basic skills essential for sur- Read-aloud: Parkchester Library, 1985 World-class dance viving out in the wild. Westchester Ave. at Pugsley Avenue; (718) 829-7830; www.nypl.org; Wed, ne of the best troupes in and his company is acclaimed March 30, 3:30 pm; Fri, April 1, 3:30 modern dance is coming the world over, so don’t miss this Sun, April 3 pm; Mon, April 4, 3:30 pm; Wed, April O to the Bronx. opportunity to see them live. Family art project, Green 6, 3:30 pm; Mon, April 11, 3:30 pm; On April 10, the Paul Taylor Paul Taylor Dance Company at Heaven: 10 am–1 pm. Wave Hill. See Wed, April 13, 3:30 pm; Mon, April 18, Dance Company performs three the Lehman Center for the Perform- Saturday, April 2. 3:30 pm; Wed, April 20, 3:30 pm; Mon, classic pieces — “Polaris,” “Dust,” ing Arts [250 Bedford Park Blvd. April 25, 3:30 pm; Wed, April 27, 3:30 and “Promethean Fire” — at the West near Paul Avenue in Norwood, Nature workshop: Pellham Bay Ranger Station, Pellham Bay Park, pm; Free. Lehman Center for the Perform- (718) 960-8833], April 10 at 6 pm. Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Av- Children of all ages read classic picture ing Arts. Taylor is one of history’s Tickets $10-$25. For info, visit www. enue; (718) 885-3467; www.nyc.gov/ books. most prolific choreographers, lehmancenter.org. parks/rangers; 1 pm; Free. Game day: Parkchester Library, 1985 Enjoy the warm weather and budding Westchester Ave. at Pugsley Avenue; plants. (718) 829-7830; www.nypl.org; Tues, Sat, April 2 nian Easter egg decoration. March 29, 4 pm; Fri, April 1, 3:45 pm; Bird walk: Van Cortlandt Nature Cen- “Rocknoceros”: Thalia Theatre, 2537 Mon, April 4 Fri, April 8, 3:45 pm; Fri, April 15, 3:45 Broadway at West 96th Street in Man- ter, Van Cortlandt Park, enter at West Crafternoons: Parkchester Library, pm; Fri, April 22, 3:45 pm; Fri, April 29, hattan; (212) 864-5400; www.sympho- 246th Street and Broadway; (718) 548- 1985 Westchester Ave. at Pugsley Av- 3:45 pm; Free. nyspace.org; 11 am; $10. 0912; www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers; 8 enue; (718) 829-4505; www.nypl.org; Children 12 and older show off their Featuring the talents of Coach Cotton, am; Free. 3:30 pm; Free. skills and challenge their friends. Williebob and Boogie Woogie Bennie. Spring is back and so are our fine It’s a rocking good time for everyone. Teens 13 to 18 use clay, markers Film day: Bronx Library Center, 310 feathered friends. and paper to create projects. Materials E. Kingsbridge Rd. at Briggs Ave.; (718) Poetry storytime: Barnes & Noble Family art project, Green provided. 579-4244; www.nypl.org; Wed, March Bay Plaza, 290 Baychester Ave.; (718) Heaven: Wave Hill, West 249th Street 30, 4 pm; Wed, April 6, 4 pm; Wed, 862-3945; barnesandnoble.com; 11 Nature workshop: Bronx Library and Independence Avenue; (718) 549- April 13, 4 pm; Wed, April 20, 4 pm; am; Free. Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. at Briggs 3200 X 395; www.wavehill.org; 10 Wed, April 27, 4 pm; Free. Celebrate National Poetry Month with Avenue; (888) 469-5999; www.nypl. am–1 pm; Free with admission to the org; 4 pm; Free. Children view a feature title each works of Jack Prelutsky and Shel Silver- grounds. Children 12 to 18 learn about the week. stein. Young poets can practice their Paint a collage using the colors of writing, too. wonders of peat and make their own spring. miniature bog. Fri, April 1 “Mi bebe es un heroe”: Repertorio Pysanky workshop: Bartow Pell Espanol, 138 E. 27th St. in Manhattan; Game day: Bronx Library Center, 310 First Friday: Bartow Pell Mansion, Mansion, 895 Shore Rd.; (718) 885- (212) 225-9920; www.repertorio.org; E. Kingsbridge Rd. at Briggs Avenue; 895 Shore Rd.; (718) 885-1461; www. 1461; www.bartowpellmansionmu- Noon; $12. (718) 579-4244; www.nypl.org; 4 pm; bartowpellmansionmuseum.org; 5:30– seum.org; 11 am–3:30 pm; $15 ($10 Bilingual puppet show that teaches Free. 8:30 pm; $8 ($5 seniors and students). members). the importance of love and family val- Children 8 to 12 play Wii, PS3, Xbox The Trolly returns! Learn the time honored art of Ukrai- ues. For children 2 and up. games. Pre-registration requested. 22 BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY • April 2011 Going Places Tues, April 5 Wed, April 13 Read aloud: Bronx Library Center, 310 The Little Explorers Club: 11 E. Kingsbridge Rd. at Briggs Ave.; (718) am–2 pm. Rubin Museum of Art. See 579-4244; www.nypl.org; 4 pm; Free. Wednesday, April 6. For children ages 3 to 8. Thurs, April 14 Wed, April 6 The Yak Packers: 10:30 –11:30 am. The Little Explorers Club: Rubin Rubin Museum of Art. See Thursday, Museum of Art, 150 West 17th St., April 7. between 6th and 7th avenues, in Man- hattan; (212) 620-5000 X 344; www. Poetry workshop: 3:30 pm. rmanyc.org; 11 am–2 pm; $10 (child Parkchester Library. See Thursday, April and adult pair; $5 members). 7. Children, ages 3 to 5, explore a new terrain each meeting, create crafts from Fri, April 15 around the globe, and look at artwork. Pre-registration required. “Snowy Day”: Parkchester Library, 1985 Westchester Ave. at Pugsley Av- Story tours: Rubin Museum of Art, enue; (718) 829-4505; www.nypl.org; 150 West 17th St., between 6th and 7th 3:30 pm; Free. avenues, in Manhattan; (212) 620-5000 Children read the Ezra Jack Keat’s X 344; www.rmanyc.org; 3:30–4:15 book along with his other stories and pm; Free with museum admission. then make a craft. Materials supplied. Children 5 and up, accompanied by For children 4 to 9 years old. an adult, learn about the works in the museum. Sat, April 16 Thurs, April 7 Bird walk: 8 am. Van Cortlandt Na- ture Center. See Saturday, April 2. The Yak Packers: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 West 17th St., between 6th Nature hike: Van Cortlandt Nature and 7th avenues, in Manhattan; (212) Center, Van Cortlandt Park, enter at 620-5000 X 344; www.rmanyc.org; West 246th Street and Broadway; (718) 10:30–11:30 am; $10 child and parent Suspended disbelief 548-0912; www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers; ($5 members). 10 am; Free. Children (ages 2 to 4), accompanied et this — it’s an aerial romance, comedy, and, of course, Traverse the John Muir Trail. show that goes under- acrobats. by an adult, touch, explore and create Art workshop: Wave Hill, West ground! It’s sure to be a great spectacle projects inspired by Himalayan art. G 249th Street and Independence Av- In “Subterranea” at the Con- for the whole family. Poetry workshop: Parkchester Li- enue; (718) 549-3200; www.wavehill. brary, 1985 Westchester Ave. at Pugsley nelly Theater, Suspended Cirque, “Subterranea” at the Connelly org; 10 am–1 pm; Free with admission Avenue; (718) 829-4505; www.nypl. an eye-popping aerial troupe, Theater [220 E. Fourth St. between to grounds. org; 3:30 pm; Free. presents an urban tale that finds Avenues A and B in Manhattan, Visiting artist Meghan Gordon gives Children 12 to 18 share their works. our hero going down Manhattan’s (212) 465-3446], April 28-30 at 8 pm, helpful hints. rabbit hole into a concrete and May 4-7 at 8 pm, May 1 and May Easter egg hunt: Bartow Pell Man- Sat, April 9 steel labyrinth where he meets 8 at 6 pm, and April 30 and May 7 sion, 895 Shore Rd.; (718) 885-1461; new creatures. at 2 pm. Tickets $20-$30, discounts www.bartowpellmansionmuseum.org; Bird walk: 8 am. Van Cortlandt Na- available for students, children and 10:30 am–1 pm; $12 ($10 members). ture Center. See Saturday, April 2. The whole story’s told in the air — a kind of “Fuerza Bruta” seniors by contacting us@suspend- Children, ages 2 to 12, hunt for eggs Clean up day: Bartow Pell Mansion, meets “Avatar.” edcirque.com. For info, visit www. in the formal garden and then have a 895 Shore Rd.; (718) 885-1461; www. There’s original music, fights, suspendedcirque.com. photo with the Easter Bunny. Bring your bartowpellmansionmuseum.org; 10 own basket. Light refreshments offered. am–1 pm; Free. Registration requested. (Rain date 4/17). Spruce up the gardens after the long nypl.org; 2 pm; Free. 250 Bedford Park Boulevard West; (718) Thunderbird Dancers: Thalia The- winter. Registration required. atre, 2537 Broadway at West 96th Puppet show for children ages 4 to 8. 960-8833; www.LehmanCenter.org; 6 Family art project, Landscape pm; $25, $20 $15, ($10 children 12 and Street in Manhattan; (212) 864-5400; views: Wave Hill, West 249th Street “Temptations Review”: Lehman younger). www.symphonyspace.org; 11 am; $11- $20. and Independence Avenue; (718) 549- Center for the Performing Arts, 250 Modern dance performance. 3200 X 395; www.wavehill.org; 10 Bedford Park Boulevard West; (718) With elaborate period costumes, am–1 pm; Free with admission to the 960-8833; www.LehmanCenter.org; 8 amazing story-telling skills, and a host of grounds. pm; $50, $45, $40, $35. Mon, April 11 tribal dancers, this renowned group cre- Cut and paste prints into a collage. Starring the Marvalettes. Crafternoons: 3:30 pm. Parkchester ates an exciting entertainment feast. Open mic: Bronx Library Center, 310 Library. See Monday, April 4. Wave Hill walk: Wave Hill, West E. Kingsbridge Rd. at Briggs Avenue; 249th Street and Independence Avenue; Sun, April 10 Game day: 4 pm. Bronx Library Cen- (718) 579-4244; www.nypl.org; Noon; (718) 549-3200; www.wavehill.org; 11 ter. See Monday, April 4. Free. Family art project, Landscape am; Free with admission to the grounds. Children 12 to 18 share their works. views: 10 am–1 pm. Wave Hill. See Join historian Deirdre LaPorte and Saturday, April 9. Tues, April 12 walk through the grounds. “Rainforest connections”: Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. at Paul Taylor Dance Company: Leh- Read aloud: 4 pm. Bronx Library Cen- Spring storytime: Barnes & Noble Briggs Avenue; (718) 579-4244; www. man Center for the Performing Arts, ter. See Tuesday, April 5. Continued on page 24 April 2011 • BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY 23 Going Places Continued from page 23 Sun, April 24 Bay Plaza, 290 Baychester Ave.; (718) 862-3945; barnesandnoble.com; 11 am; Animal Tale Players: 11:30 am, 1:30 Free. and 3:30 pm. Bronx Zoo. See Sunday, The best of new children’s books. April 17. Spider Man and Green Goblin: Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd. at Bos- Mon, April 25 ton Road; (718) 220-5103; www.bronx- Crafternoons: 3:30 pm. Parkchester zoo.com; 11:30 am, 1:30 and 3:30 pm; Library. See Monday, April 4. Free with zoo admission. Live performance. Game day: 4 pm. Bronx Library Cen- ter. See Monday, April 4. “O’Sullivan’s Stew”: Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. at Briggs Avenue; (718) 579-4244; www.nypl. Tues, April 26 org; 2 pm; Free. Read aloud: 4 pm. Bronx Library Cen- This classic Irish children’s book comes ter. See Tuesday, April 5. alive. For children, ages 5 to 12. Sun, April 17 Go see a mousical! Wed, April 27 Art workshop: 10 am–1 pm. Wave The Little Explorers Club: 11 Hill. See Saturday, April 16. et ready to sing along and Camembert Academy. am–2 pm. Rubin Museum of Art. See learn about dance with An- Always the one to show off her Wednesday, April 6. Animal Tale Players: Bronx Zoo, gelina Ballerina, the small dance skills, will Angelina impress 2300 Southern Blvd. at Boston Road; G mouse with big dance dreams! the visitor? Bring your tiny dancer (718) 220-5103; www.bronxzoo.com; Thurs, April 28 The Bronx Zoo brings the pop- to find out as the cast performs 11:30 am, 1:30 and 3:30 pm; Free with The Yak Packers: 10:30–11:30 am. zoo admission. ular PBS cartoon to life on stage hip-hop, modern dance, the Irish with “Angelina Ballerina,” a live jig and, of course, ballet! Rubin Museum of Art. See Thursday, Live performance. April 7. show from April 30 to May 1. “Angelina Ballerina” at the Bronx Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons”: Lehman Join Angelina and her friends Zoo [2300 Southern Blvd. at Boston Center for the Performing Arts, 250 Sat, April 30 Bedford Park Boulevard West; (718) Alice, Gracie, AZ, Viki and dance Road; (718) 220-5103], April 30-May 960-8833; www.LehmanCenter.org; 3 teacher Ms. Mimi, as they an- 1 at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm. Bird walk: 8 am. Van Cortlandt Na- pm; $25, $20 $15, ($10 children 12 and ticipate the arrival of a famous Free. For info, visit www.bronxzoo. ture Center. See Saturday, April 2. younger). dancer to their dance school, com. Performed by the Venice Baroque Run for the Wild 2011: The Bronx Orchestra. Zoo, Bronx River Parkway at Exit 6; www.wcs.runforthewild.org; 8:30 and pany presents the super sleuth and his Sat, April 23 Mon, April 18 sidekick Dr. Watson. 8:45 am; $30 registration fee. Bird walk: 8 am. Van Cortlandt Na- Third annual 5K race. This year’s Kids Week: Crotona Nature Center, Read aloud: 4 pm. Bronx Library Cen- ture Center. See Saturday, April 2. race is dedicated to helping save the Crotona Park, enter at Charlotte Street ter. See Tuesday, April 5. penguins. and Crotona Park East; (718) 378-2061; Bike ride: Concrete Plant Park, Bronx www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers; 1 pm; Wed, April 20 River Avenue at Westchester Avenue; Craft workshop: Wave Hill, West Free. (718) 430-4665; www.nycgovparks. 249th Street and Independence Avenue; Spend mid-winter break with the Turnoff week: Barnes & Noble Bay org; 9 am–2 pm; Free. (718) 549-3200; www.wavehill.org; 10 Plaza, 290 Baychester Ave.; (718) 862- am; $15 ($23 non-member). Urban Park Rangers. For children 12 and For advanced riders. The trail begins at 3945; barnesandnoble.com; 11 am; Make an Alpine Trough. For children under. the mouth of the Bronx River Greenway Free. 12 and up. Registration required. and ends at the Kensico Reservoir. Regis- Crafternoons: 3:30 pm. Parkchester Help promote the wonders of read- Library. See Monday, April 4. ing. All ages. tration required. 10K fun/run walk: Shoelace Park, Bronx Boulevard at East 228th Street; Game day: 4 pm. Bronx Library Cen- Earth day: Barnes & Noble Bay Plaza, The Little Explorers Club: 11 (718) 430-4665; www.nycgovparks. ter. See Monday, April 4. 290 Baychester Ave; (718) 862-3945; am–2 pm. Rubin Museum of Art. See org; 10 am–2 pm; Free. barnesandnoble.com; 11 am; Free. Wednesday, April 6. Registration required. Celebrate the 40th anniversary of this Tues, April 19 Kids Week: 1 pm. Crotona Nature event with a story and activity. “Angelina Ballerina”: Bronx Zoo, Kids Week: Van Cortlandt Nature Center. See Monday, April 18. 2300 Southern Blvd. at Boston Road; Center, Van Cortlandt Park, enter at “Operation Green”: Bronx Zoo, (718) 220-5103; www.bronxzoo.com; West 246th Street and Broadway; (718) Thurs, April 21 2300 Southern Blvd. at Boston Road; 11:30 am, 1:30 and 3:30 pm; Free with 548-0912; www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers; (718) 220-5103; www.bronxzoo.com; zoo admission. 1 pm; Free. The Yak Packers: 10:30–11:30 am. 11:30 am, 1:30 and 3:30 pm; Free with Live performance. Spend mid-winter break with the Rubin Museum of Art. See Thursday, zoo admission. Urban Park Rangers. For children 12 and April 7. Marvel Super Heroes perform. “Sherlock Homes Takes the under. Poetry workshop: 3:30 pm. Park­ Case”: Kingsbridge Library Center, 310 Earth Day: Kingsbridge Library Cen- “Sherlock Homes Takes the chester Library. See Thursday, April 7. E. Kingsbridge Rd. at Briggs Avenue; Case”: Parkchester Library, 1985 ter, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. at Briggs Av- (718) 579-4244; www.nypl.org; 2 pm; Westchester Ave. at Pugsley Avenue; enue; (718) 579-4244; www.nypl.org; Free. (718) 829-4505; www.nypl.org; 3:30 Fri, April 22 2 pm; Free. The Traveling Lantern Theatre Com- pm; Free. Kids Week: 1 pm. Van Cortlandt Na- Celebrate with songs, stories and ac- pany presents the super sleuth and his The Traveling Lantern Theatre Com- ture Center. See Tuesday, April 19. tivities. For kids 5 years old and up. sidekick Dr. Watson. 24 BRONX/RIVERDALE FAMILY • April 2011 community marketplace

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