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Youth Reporters Take on Bronx Issues orwood ews N N pp. 6–7 Vol. 26, No. 13 n Published by Mosholu Preservation Corporation n June 27–July 10, 2013

Making Music at the Park Inside Albany: The Search for Jeff Klein By ALEX KRATZ

Inside the Capitol building in Albany, heavy iron gates and a security guard separate the Senate chambers from the long, extended lobby area, which is bifurcated by large, arching columns and lit with ornate chandeliers. This is the place where the terms “lobbying” and “lobby- ist” originated. Today, the day before the New York Legislative session is scheduled to end on Thursday, the lobby is a beehive of activity. Senators and lobbyists mingle. Groups of sena- tors and staffers huddle. Lots of men and women in suits furiously tap away at their smart phones. Hundreds of pieces of legislation, including block- buster packages on women’s equality rights and cam- paign finance reform, are still up in the air and waiting for a vote because that’s just how things work in Albany. Everything is last minute. With the Assembly dominated by Democrats and Photo by Adi Talwar Speaker Sheldon Silver, all eyes are on the Senate, which To kick off the start of summer on June 21, the nonprofit group Make Music NY hosted more than 1,000 concerts is controlled by an unprecedented coalition of Republi- throughout the five boroughs, including a show by local band Fort Indy at Williamsbridge Oval Park in Norwood. cans and four independent Democrats, led by Bronxite Fort Indy includes (l-r) Jarrett Murphy, Brian Aucoin and Darren Merritt. Solo singer/guitarist THEO opened up. (continued on page 11) Report: Metro North Expansion After Violence, Would Boost Bronx Economy Community By NATASHA RODRIGUEZ According to their projections, the expansion will cre- ate 5,400 new jobs, increase home values by more than Talks Bullying An expansion of Metro North train stops in the Bronx $142,400, and create more than $1 billion in additional would be a game changer for a borough that still suffers business sales in the Bronx. By HUGH THORNHILL from high unemployment and rampant poverty, say some Anna Durrett, a spokesperson for Klein, said the num- of the Bronx’s most prominent elected officials and busi- bers were calculated by a policy team commissioned by In recent years, a string of high-profile bullying in- ness leaders. And they have the numbers to back it up. Klein and Diaz. They based their findings on a 1984 na- cidents, some ending in violence or early suicide, has Just last month, State Senator co-leader Jeff Klein (continued on page 4) forced the topic into the national conversation. Following and Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. joined a particularly disturbing instance of bullying at Middle union leaders, Bronx business owners, homeowners and School 80 on Mosholu Parkway three months ago has community leaders to talk up the economic benefit of the brought the conversation to the local level. MTA Metro North transportation’s proposed expansion Back in March, a 14-year-old girl who attended MS 80 into the Bronx. was attacked by one of her fellow classmates. The attack This new expansion includes the construction of four was so severe that she had to be hospitalized and the at- new Metro North stations in the east Bronx on current tacker was arrested and charged with assault as a juve- Amtrak lines in Co-op City, Hunts Point, Morris Park nile. and Parkchester and is projected to dramatically boost As a result of the incident, parents criticized the the Bronx‘s economy. This proposed expansion is part school principal Emmanuel Polanco for his supposed of a larger plan for the MTA called Penn Station Access, lack of control over the children at the school. Parents, lo- which would allow Metro North trains to enter Penn Sta- cal residents and union members even protested outside tion. the school calling for Polanco to step down. At this point, the proposal is on the table, but not part Photo courtesy Bronx Borough President’s office In response, on May 17 and on June 14, Bronx Commu- of the MTA’s capital budget, meaning it’s still far from a Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. (at podi- nity Board 7 hosted two public forums addressing bully- done deal. um) and Senate co-leader Jeff Klein talk about the bene- ing problems in the Bronx. The first forum was held inside The numbers speak for themselves, the officials say. fits of a proposed Metro North expansion into the Bronx. (continued on page 12)

n Big Changes at Community Board, p. 2 n “Annie” Comes to Life at PS 56, p. 8 n Out and About in the Bronx, pp. 14–15 www.norwoodnews.org 2 n June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News

News • Politics • Policy

Vol. 26, No. 13 Community Board 7 Braces for Big Changes at the Top

Norwood News is published Additional Board bi-weekly on Thursdays by Mosholu Preservation Corporation Meeting Notes 3400 Reservoir Oval East • Board member Mohammed Ali Bronx, New York 10467 received an award for ensuring public safety and pursuing anti-bullying initia- Phone: 718 324 4998 tives in the Bronx’s Bengali community. Fax: 718 324 2917 • A representative from Council- E-mail: [email protected] man Oliver Koppell’s office stood Web: www.norwoodnews.org up to announce the pending clean- up of the contaminated building on Van Corltandt Avenue that formerly Publisher CEO, Mosholu housed PS 51, Con Edison’s $25 rebate Mosholu Preservation Preservation for customers who purchase an Ener- Corporation Corporation gy Star refrigerator, and the honorary Editor-in-Chief Roberto S. Garcia renaming of Villa Avenue in Bedford Alex Kratz Park as St. Philip Neri Way. • The New York State Department Classified Advertising Photo by Hugh Thornhill of Health will host a panel discussion Dawn McEvoy Community Board 7 member Nora Feury thanks departing Chairman Paul Foster, about the PS 51 contamination at St. Philip Neri Event Hall, July 1 at 6 p.m. Accounts Receivable who is stepping down after four years as head of the board. Dawn McEvoy • A spokesperson from Councilman By ANDREA CETRA and member Sandra Erickson. “Like all elec- Fernando Cabrera’s District 14 office Proofreader NATASHA RODRIGUEZ tions, people win fair and square. I look announced the introduction of a new Judy Noy forward to working with all the members food voucher program that would pres- Production Last week, on a dark stormy Tuesday of the board.” ent $5,000 new “health bucks” to those Neil deMause evening, change was afoot at Community Barbara Stronczer, recently elected in need, and the arrival of street hail Regular Contributors Board 7. By the end of the board’s final to first vice chair, declined to comment taxi service in the Bronx. David Greene, Adi Talwar meeting before the summer hiatus, mem- about the election results, but has in the • The Bronx borough president’s Interns bers elected a new chairman for the first past, expressed concern about the safe de- office continued by announcing the Natasha Rodriguez, Hugh Thornhill, Andrea time in four years and approved the hiring velopment of Webster Avenue. creation of hundreds of new jobs with Cetra of new district manager, a paid position Paul Foster, who stepped down this the construction of a retail mall on the that had been vacant for nine months. spring after serving as chairman for the outskirts of District 7 in Kingsbridge, For display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. Behind the floor-to-ceiling glass win- past four years, was coy about his feel- the continuation of local LGBTQ out- dows of the New York Botanical Garden’s ings about the election. “Well, if 300 mil- reach programs, and asked communi- Support Your Visitor Center Café, members narrowly lion Americans can elect George W. Bush, ty members to take note of Caribbean Community Newspaper! voted in former vice chair Adaline Walk- then I guess this can happen,” he said. Heritage Month scheduled for June 27 The Norwood News is a not-for-profit pub- er-Santiago as the new chairperson over During the election, board members (see Out & About under “Events”). lication and relies upon the support of its William Francis. were asked to pass their ballots to the • After a long debate about the dan- advertisers and readers to produce a quality At the same meeting, the board ap- middle of the room. Papers shuffled and gers of promoting a “military presence” community newspaper. To support your paper, proved the hiring of Socrates Caba as the throats were cleared as the votes were in the community and in spite of strong become a member and receive a subscription new district manager, by a vote of 13-3, tallied and the new executive committee opposition from Foster, board members for one year. with eight members abstaining. Caba was announced. Jean Hill was selected as voted yes on plans to hold “National will fill the position vacated by the depar- treasurer, Andrew Laiosa was third chair, Simply mail check or money order for $40 Guard Army Day” on Aug. 17. ture of Fernando Tirado, who resigned Nora Feury was elected to second chair, to: Norwood News, 3400 Reservoir Oval East, and Barbara Stronczer became the new said she is passionate about education Bronx, NY 10467. as district manager last fall after a group of members unsuccessfully tried to have first chair. and has participated in several anti-bully- Norwood News is not responsible for typo- him removed. “I think that the elections went really ing initiatives. graphical errors. Opinions expressed in signed Two members of the board spoke up well and we have a great group [of lead- “I was PTA president, so I know what letters and bylined columns represent the sole to endorse Walker-Santiago during the ers],” said community board member Hel- it is like to empower parents,” she said. opinion of the author and are not necessarily meeting, calling her “dedicated,” “a tire- en Hartman. “I am very excited and opti- “You have to love people to get things to those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations less worker,” and “a blessing.” mistic about this year,” she said. move.” or Montefiore Medical Center. Editorials rep- Other board members thanked Walk- Some of the most pressing issues the resent the views of the editor and/or publisher er-Santiago for her support of education board now faces include the coming re-de- only. The newspaper reserves the right to limit Suspected Drug Dealer and the arts. One enthusiastic board velopment of the Kingsbridge Armory, or refuse advertising it deems objectionable. member, Cecilia Donovan, thanked the which is slated to be turned into the Dies in Police Custody Advertisements appearing in this paper cannot world’s largest ice sports complex, but A man who reportedly struggled with be used without the written permission of Nor- new chairperson on behalf of her daugh- wood News. Letters to the editor are subject ter for supporting a science initiative still faces the scrutiny of the community police has died after officials say he in- to condensation and editing. Writers should at her daughter’s school, MS 80, which board, borough president and City Coun- gested a substance believed to be cocaine. include their ­affiliation or special interest if any. Walker-Santiago tried to save from clo- cil; the decontamination of PS 51, where According to police officials, investi- Anonymous letters are not published but your sure last year. (The DOE’s attempt to close Walker-Santiago’s children attended gators from an undercover narcotics unit name can be withheld if requested. the school was overturned by a court rul- school; and the redevelopment of Webster observed a suspected drug deal outside ing following a lawsuit by the teachers’ Avenue, which was recently rezoned to of Jerome Avenue Convenience Store, lo- union.) expand residential and retail spaces. cated at 3598 Jerome Ave., at 10 p.m., on Although Francis’ supporters were not “The Armory will celebrate the area Wednesday, June 19. Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a nearly as vocal during the meeting, the and showcase our part of the Bronx, Police say the man swallowed a wal- not-profit support corporation of Montefiore board’s close vote suggests the group was which is truly a gem and has always been nut size amount of a white substance, Medical Center. split. (The board couldn’t confirm the ex- unappreciated,” Hartman said. believed to be cocaine, when the man act vote by press time on Tuesday.) “My kids asked me why we didn’t have stopped breathing. The man was rushed “I am an advocate for more engage- something like that when we were lit- to North Central Bronx Hospital where he ment and expansion,” Walker-Santiago tle,” Walker-Santiago said of the project. died a short time later. said. “The Bronx is moving up, we’re go- “We want people to join us and make the Police identified the man as Jose Mu- ing to be unstoppable,” she added, flash- Bronx the best,” she added. niz, 52, who police say had been arrested ing a smile. Walker-Santiago expressed interest more than 30 times. Yet some were less enthusiastic about in pursuing projects to promote job cre- Members of the NYPD Internal Affairs the election results. ation, including the Kingsbridge Armory, Bureau continue to investigate Muniz’s “An election is an election,” said board the expansion of Webster Avenue, and death. —David Greene June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News n 3

Inquiring Photographer By David Greene This week, as summer officially begins, we asked readers what they were looking forward to doing in the Bronx.

I will be going to all of the Van Cortlandt Park is This summer I’m going I’m a coach of a basket- Barbecuing in the park. historical places. I will near where I live and it’s to hang out with the ball team and on the 4th No Yankees, we’re not go to Wave Hill and the exquisite with offerings children at the basketball of July we’ll be in Ten- big baseball fans. Yes, Botanical Garden and in terms of urban wil- courts. We’ll have music nessee competing for a we’ll be going to the the Bronx Zoo because derness, but also cross and good food and lots of national championship. beach a lot. these are the best places country trails. I also basketball playing in Van My team is 21-1 right Fred Singleton to visit. look forward to getting Cortlandt Park and more now and we are 6-time Rafael Martinez Alequin to Orchard Beach and than likely we’ll visit Poe champions, so we’re seeing some shows and Park. leaving the Bronx, but concerts. Charmaine Lloyd we’re representing the Michael Knobbe Bronx. Vosco Hicks

4 n June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News Child Wounded, Teen Arrested in Shooting By DAVID GREENE make a full recovery. get hit too,” said Wanda Forte, outside of and hiding his face in his hooded jacket. The shooting set off a massive inves- the building, the day after the shooting. He was charged with attempted murder, as- A lovely spring evening in Kingsbridge tigation that would eventually result in On Father’s Day, June 16, police re- sault, reckless endangerment and criminal turned into a scene of chaotic violence on the surrender of 17-year-old Billie James, leased a second surveillance photo as well possession of a weapon. Police Commission- a recent Friday, when, according to police, who was charged with attempted murder, as posting a $22,000 reward for informa- er Ray Kelly said it was an act of revenge. a young man riding a bike rolled down among other charges. tion leading to the shooter. Later that day, “We believe the motive was a dispute Bailey Avenue, pulled out a gun and fired After firing into the crowd at around James, of 2831 Exterior St., surrendered that took place at that location some time off a half dozen shots into a crowd of peo- 9 p.m. on Friday, June 14, the shooter ap- to police at a South Bronx police station. earlier,” Kelly told reporters. “He went ple, mostly children, hanging out in an parently turned down a side street before He was taken to the 50th Precinct where back, apparently seeking revenge and apartment building parking lot. abandoning the bike he was riding. he was questioned overnight. fired.” He added, “Whether he was aiming One of bullets hit a 9-year-old girl in Once on the scene, police quickly shut At 10:25 a.m. on Monday, June 17, James at somebody or firing indiscriminately, I the stomach. The bleeding girl was taken down the block. was led away in handcuffs, slumped over am not sure.” by car to the emergency room at North The 9-year-old victim’s grandmother Central Bronx Hospital where she was was amazed that the girl’s little brother treated for her wounds. She was eventu- escaped injury. The siblings were playing Report: Metro North ally transferred to Jacobi Hospital and near each in a closed off parking lot of the released the following Sunday, much to Fort Independence Houses. “He was right the relief of her family. She is expected to there next to her, I don’t know how he didn’t Would Boost Economy (continued from page 1) been cited at anywhere from $800 million tional analysis of the employment and dollars to $1 billion. business revenue impacts of investment Although the plans are not definite, in public transit conducted by the Ameri- John Desio, a spokesperson for the bor- can Public Transit Association. ough president’s office said, “This is cur- Although Bronx residents are eager to rently the biggest priority for every elect- make this a reality, a spokesperson for the ed official in the Bronx and we are going MTA said that the plans have not yet been to work together to see it through.” cemented. “It is something that is cur- “Senator Klein will do his best to push rently under discussion by many parties forward and make sure the expansion in- and it still has not been approved by the cludes the Bronx.” said Durrett. “It will legislature as a part of our capital pro- be a great opportunity for more people to gram,” the spokesperson said. come and see what the Bronx has to offer.” The cost of the Metro North expansion At the announcement in late May, in the Bronx would be approximately $350 Klein said, “The benefits are clear and million. The total projected cost for the will be critical to launching the Bronx entire Penn Station Access project has into the 21st century and beyond.” June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News n 5

Bronx residents afflicted Vital Be Healthy 1,000 with sickle cell disease Stats Montefiore Hosts First Sickle Cell Awareness Day By NATASHA RODRIGUEZ ical center, sickle cell specialists from Montefiore and awareness, SCD is losing attention, but it is still a very Albert Einstein College of Medicine were on hand to dis- significant problem, especially in the Bronx.” said Mural Last week, Montefiore Medical Center hosted its first cuss managing sickle cell disease (SCD) and provide free Janakiram, a doctor at Montefiore. annual Sickle Cell Awareness Day to educate the Bronx oxygen saturation tests. One of the reasons why SCD awareness should be im- community about this inherited disease that affects close Also present was Bronx native Eddie Gomez, a 20-year- portant to Bronx residents is because the disease affects to 1,000 Bronxites. old Honduran-American boxer who is undefeated as a pro- one out of every 500 Black or African Americans and one Taking place in a sunny courtyard outside the med- fessional fighter. He said he had come to spread awareness. out of every 36,000 Hispanic Americans. According to “I am here to support a close friend of mine, Anthony, the latest census data, 43 percent of Bronxites identify who has SCD,” Gomez said. “I have been working on this as being Black. cause for the past two years and my goal is for everyone Although it may not garner much attention, SCD is no to know what SCD is.” laughing matter. Sickle cells can get stuck in small blood For many present, it marked the first time they had vessels and block the flow of blood and oxygen to organs in heard of the disease. “SCD is not as popularized as oth- the body. These blockages cause repeated episodes of severe er diseases, so it is often not identified properly or even pain, organ damage, serious infections, or even strokes. treated,” explained Monica Spencer, a nurse practitioner To date, the only cure for SCD is a bone marrow or at Montefiore. stem cell transplant, which is extremely risky and can “As the government focuses more and more on cancer have serious side effects, including death. Timetable Accelerated for Removal of Toxic Light Fixtures Schools Chancellor Dennis M. Walcott, Corporation use of some PCB equipment, including light fixtures. Counsel Michael A. Cardozo, and City Council Speaker The new replacement plan will take a total of three Christine C. Quinn announced in May that a settlement and a half years as opposed to the original 10-year plan had been made between the Department of Education originally set to be completed in 2021. Photo courtesy Montefiore and New York Communities for Change to accelerate “Since the beginning of this proposed plan, I have al- Bronx-born Eddie Gomez, Golden Gloves winner and the removal of contaminant-filled light fixtures in 645 ways said that we would reassess the timeline once we rising star in the boxing world, appeared at Montefiore schools across the city. had a better understanding of the work,” said Walcott Medical Center’s Sickle Cell Awareness Day June 19 to Many school light fixtures still used by these schools in a statement. help create more awareness about sickle cell disease, an contain PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls), a set of tox- Congressmen Jose E. Serrano, Joseph Crowley and inherited disorder that affects an estimated 1,000 bor- ic chemicals that were used in building materials and Jerrold Nadler, who have led efforts to address the issue ough residents. Pictured at the lectern is Gomez with Dr. electrical products. The use of PCBs was banned by since the first reports of PCBs in New York City school Henny Billett (at his right), chief of hematology at Monte- Congress in 1979. However, the EPA has permitted the came out in 2007, applauded the recent settlement. fiore, whose team treats adults with sickle cell disease. 6 n June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News

Vol. 6, No. 1 n A publication of the Bronx Youth Journalism Initiative n Summer 2013

What Does It Take to Be a Man in the Bronx? orn is still reeling from an life.” In middle school, Devalle had to episode four years ago when fight a peer so that he wouldn’t be seen as he was raped by a neighbor. weak by the other students. The 18-year-old Bronx resi- Enrique Gutierrez, a worker with the dent didn’t tell anyone, even Children’s Aid Society, says there is some Bthe police, because he was ashamed. Born truth to the idea that, “to be considered a was raped by a woman. masculine male you have to have a tough “I didn’t tell anyone ‘cause it’s not skin.” cool,” says Born, who agreed to talk on For some boys, dating plays a big part the condition of his last name being with- of manliness in the Bronx. held. “They’d think I was gay.” “If you’re too shy to talk to a girl, Born is like many young men in the you’re not mannin’ up,” Rudy says. “You Bronx who feel compelled to project mas- gotta be tough to impress girls.” culinity. Whether it’s through getting girls Others say showing traditional mascu- or getting into fights, line characteristics many boys act out like toughness isn’t to keep up with the the only way being Bronx’s perception MICHAEL a man should be de- of masculinity. BROWN fined. “Somebody “A man is some- thinks that you [are] one whose actions Black and Latino families in New York thing larger. If it’s not a gang, then it’s weak, then you gotta speak louder than City are fatherless and only 7 percent of religion.” show them that you tough, then you fight his words,” said Malachi Cintron, 25, of the city’s teachers are men of color. Vernon Johnson, a staffer at the Col- them,” says Rudy Abreu, 16, a resident of Mott Haven. Those statistics may explain another legiate Institute for Math and Science, Castle Hill and a student at the Collegiate Greg Faulker, the chief of staff for startling number: felt that if he could Institute for Math and Science. City Councilmen Fernando Cabrera, says 84 percent of admis- “Somebody thinks that you be a role model for Brandon Patterson of Gun Hill Road, being a man is “living up to responsibili- sions to the city’s [are] weak, then you gotta his students, then also 16, called acting manly in the Bronx a ties; having strength of character.” detention facilities he could save them matter of “life and death.” “Being a man To some women, being manly in the are Black and Latino show them that you tough, from joining gangs is showing toughness,” he says. Bronx means nothing more than “having males. then you fight them.” to prove their mas- Another 16-year-old, Devalle Chapman, an XY chromosome,” said Katiana Rufino, Gutierrez says —Rudy Abreu, 16, Castle Hill culinity. He founded who lives in West Farms Square, says he 18, of Burnside. “Masculinity does not de- many Bronx teens, Resident, Collegiate Institute a group called the acts tough because he doesn’t want to be termine if you’re a man.” lacking traditional for Math and Science Student Young Men’s Lead- viewed as a “bitch.” “Being a man means In the Bronx, where the vast majority male role models ership organization, being tough and having great fortitude,” of families are either Black or Latino, and looking to define who they are as geared toward Black and Latino males. says Davalle, also a student at the Colle- there is a lack of male role models. men, sometimes get swept up in gang life, “To be successful, we must do more to giate Institute for Math and Science. According to a report put together by which often also means criminal behav- associate masculinity with positive out- “You do not run away,” Devalle says, the mayor’s Young Men’s Initiative, which ior. “That’s what’s important for them,” comes in the public and cultural sphere,” “no matter what. Even if it costs your was launched in 2010, roughly half of all he says, “because that’s part of some- Johnson said. Under the Influence: Music,

Vol. 6, No. 1 Drugs and Teens c/o 3400 Reservoir Oval East Bronx, NY 10467 Phone: (718) 324-4998 enesha Johnson wonders if song “All Gold Everything.” The lyrics, Email: the music she listens to will “Popped a molly/I’m sweating,” which re- [email protected] encourage her little sister to fers to the drug Ecstasy, made her think Bronx Youth Heard is a publication of the Bronx Youth Heard high school abuse drugs some day. The twice about song choices. journalism program and is published twice a year in the Norwood News. Bronx teen gets emotional at “That was the first time I’ve ever heard Dthe thought of her sister ever trying drugs of Molly,” said Luana, a 15-year-old Bronx Youth Reporters: Michael Brown Tori Graves-Parker resident. “It wasn’t portrayed as some- Todossa Coleman Tracy Robinson thing good, but not bad neither.” Diomar De Jesus Corinne Waller There are other, even more blatant Melisse Valdez Cydney Lynn Rivera Christobal De Jesus Paige Hodge TORI references. Atlanta rapper 2 Chainz has GRAVES-PARKER a song “Crack,” which, not surprising- Program Director: ly, is about crack cocaine. “Love Me,” by Alex Kratz Lil Wayne, contains the oft-repeated lyr- Program Coordinator: ics, “I’m on that good Kush and alcohol.” Katina Paron because of her personal taste in music. Kush is a potent strand of marijuana. Bronx Youth Heard is a free journalism program for Bronx high school students, run For decades, musicians have often pro- But it isn’t just rap songs. by the Norwoood News with support from Mosholu Preservation Corporation, City moted or glorified drug use, but to some, Pop music, like “A-Team” by Brit- Councilman Fernando Cabrera, City Councilman Joel Rivera, and in collaboration with it seems more obvious in modern music. ish singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, con- CUNY’s College Now program at Hostos Community College. Luana Bowers was shocked by some- tains the lyrics, “White lips, pale face / thing she heard in Trinidad James’ (continued on page 7) June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News n 7

Teens Blast NYPD’s Stop and BYH Looking for Young Reporters Frisk Tactics ast year, out of the 533,042 ourselves.” people stopped as part of the “The public sees it as harassment, but NYPD’s Stop, Question and the police see it as doing their job,” said Frisk policing strategy, 89 per- Bronx resident, Selah Williams, 14. “But cent were innocent, according it violates the public’s trust.” Lto the New York Civil Liberties Union Many adults are on the teens’ side. (NYCLU). A vast majority of those tar- “I don’t agree with the policy,” said geted were Black and Latino teens. Many Wanda Rosado, an English teacher at the people think this is an abuse of power. Evander Childs High School Campus. “Cops are robbing teens of their inno- “It’s bias and it only happens in certain cence,” said a spokesperson for the Bronx neighborhoods.” Defenders, an organization that provides A map of recent stop and frisk data free legal representation to indigent found on WNYC.org shows Rosado is Bronx Youth Heard, a free after-school journalism program for Bronx high Bronx residents. right. The map, which was posted in April, school students, is now recruiting for our fall session, which starts in late Sep- Even though a United States District indicates that stops were down citywide tember. We’ll teach you how to report on issues that matter in your community, by 22 percent last year. But some places, improve your writing skills, build your confidence and expose you to the world like the neighborhood around 58th Street of journalism. In the photo above, Bronx Youth Heard students talk to New York in Manhattan, had no stops. Meanwhile, Times photographer Michael Kamber at the Bronx Documentary Center. To re- TRACY there were 1,656 stops in 2012 around the quest an application or for more information, call (718) 324-4998 or email us at [email protected]. ROBINSON Sheridan Avenue neighborhood in the Bronx. “The youth are so used to being stopped and frisked, they don’t even look at it as a Court recently declared certain aspects problem,” said Cynthia Turquest, an edu- Public Schools Lacking in of the so-called “Stop and Frisk” poli- cator at a middle school in the Bronx. cy unconstitutional, Mayor Bloomberg Earlier this year, a district judge said staunchly defends the practice by saying that the police’s Clean Halls Policy — Discipline it’s one of the main factors in the city’s which allows police officers to patrol pri- It is noon and students at the Theodore cause we don’t want to waste our par- crime drop over the past two decades. vate apartment buildings — violates the Roosevelt High School Campus are hud- ents’ hard earned money,” Luis Rubio, a Still, teens in the Bronx say the tactics fourth amendment protection against un- dled around the cafeteria waiting for a student from Roosevelt, said. “Freshman are discriminatory and racist. reasonable search and seizure. The case fight. Erisa Moore pushes Olisia Williams year I attended public school. It was the “It’s still a sense of racism,” said was brought to court by the NYCLU, Lati- to the floor. Everyone shouts: “Hit her!” worst experience because some students Bronx resident Jeffrey Thompson, 17. no Justice and the Bronx Defenders. Olisia, however, manages to get back up are disrespectful and are careless and it “The system is corrupt.” According to the American CLU, crime and punch Erisa with rage. The fight be- doesn’t help if the school and faculty have “Whenever there’s a stop and frisk, data does not support Bloomberg’s claim gins. a high tolerance level.” there’s no sense in reporting it because that New York City is safer because of the The first push is how a majority of high Private and independent schools strive the police are going to do it anyway,” said practice. school fights start. The announcement of to create an awareness of unwanted and Manhattan resident Jecaryous Jackson. Opponents and advocates are now a “10-33” is echoed throughout the walls as aggressive behavior by taking the neces- “The police want to take advantage of waiting on another court ruling that will school safety agents race to respond to the sary steps to foster a community of kind- teens that don’t know their rights,” said determine whether the NYPD’s recent “emergency situation” and to disperse the Kevin Soler, 15. “We get hassled for being use of stop and frisk is unconstitutional. crowd and prevent the situation from esca- lating into further mayhem. The agents pull the students apart and TODOSSA Under the Influence: Music, escort them to the principal’s office. There COLEMAN they will meet with the dean and princi- pal. A call to parents is made. In this case, Drugs and Teens Olisia and Erisa were given two days of in-school suspension. ness. School officials take the necessary (continued from page 6) of drug use in music is more obvious That seems light compared to inde- measure by distributing handbooks, hold- Breathing in snowflakes,” which refer to now than it has ever been. But in the pendent and private schools, which often ing off-site orientations, installing camer- cocaine use. And then there is the R&B heat of the 1970s, drugs were a big thing. enforce zero tolerance policies that lead as to monitor and discourage inappropri- song “Wicked Games” by Weeknd, which Rock star Jimi Hendrix, for example, to detention, probation, removal of priv- ate and unsafe behavior and even offering include the lyrics “Bring your love baby, blatantly used drugs most of his career. ileges, or expulsion – which is how Erisa peer mediation and peer leadership pro- I can bring my shame / Bring the drugs So why does it seem like a bigger impact came to Roosevelt in the first place grams to encourage and solicit students baby, I can bring my pain.” now? Why do independent and private for leadership roles. Still, compared to pop, rock, country, “Back then, the artists hardly ever schools foster, create and nurture such This doesn’t seem to happen in public and R&B, rap has the highest number of talked about ever using in their songs,” a safe educational environment in their schools. Instead, it’s on to the next fight. drugs or alcohol references, according to said Luana. “Today no one cares and they schools while public schools do not nur- Fordham Road, a major street in the a 2008 study by the University of Pitts- say just anything.” ture the same type of community? the Bronx is famous for its retail stores. burgh School of Medicine. But some people feel it isn’t just music “It’s harder to discipline a child who It is also another location where students With 77 percent of rap songs studied that advertises drugs, but media, in gen- feels they don’t have much to lose,” said fight instead of in school. Fights happen referring explicitly to drug abuse, rap had eral. Adell Brooks, a grandmother of a private constantly, whether it’s on the “plaza” nearly double the references of country, Television “promotes a culture of in- school student. “Their mentality is that if (Fordham Plaza) or by the phone trucks. nearly four times that of R&B and hip- stant relief,” said Greg Faulkner, chief of they get suspended, it’s only for two days, Randall Bozeman has witnessed nu- hop, and more than five and eight times staff for Bronx City Councilman Fernan- my parents aren’t wasting money any- merous fights while leaving from school that of rock and pop, respectively. do Cabrera. “Some of the biggest movies ways, so who cares? I think that’s why in to go home. Hip-hop, from where rap originated, do more to promote drug use,” than mu- private school the punishment is harsher, “It has become a normal thing now,” he was born in the Boogie Down Bronx and sic. “It’s not just the record industry, it is because you’re actually paying money for says. “Usually you hear people spreading its influence is everywhere. cultural,” he added. your child’s education and it’ll be a waste rumors throughout the campus saying “The youth today are easily influ- Jonathan Collie, also a senior at Spell- if your child gets expelled over an alterca- there’s going to be a fight after school. enced,” said Jamel Lewis, a senior at man, said that lack of outrage over drug tion in the hallway.” We just don’t know what time but we all Cardinal Spellman High School. “So if lyrics might say something more sinister Although some teachers may blame know when there’s a fight because you see your favorite artist is talking about using about the listeners than the music itself. the parents for their outside behavior, stu- crowds of kids standing on one corner drugs, then we are going to be curious “No one cares if a song is titled ‘Crack,’” dents blame the schools. anxiously waiting, with their phones out, about it and follow them.” Jonathan said, “because there are hardly “Private schools tend to have more for something to happens. It’s chaotic and Many teens believe the glorification any morals.” caring students than public schools be- annoying.” 8 n June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News

‘Annie’ Comes to Life at PS 56

Photo by David Greene A full house turned out for the latest production of “Annie,” presented by members of the Norwood Heights Players from PS 56, under the direction of Eliz- abeth Corrao and Tashima Nole. The show was held at the school on East 207th Street on Thursday, June 13. June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News n 9 10 n June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News Opinion Op-Eds Proposed Housing Project Undermines Webster Revitalization By JAY SHUFFIELD stores and restaurants would attract vis- this corner, everything is only a short and our community leaders have done the itors from the Botanical Garden and stu- stroll away: schools, shopping, the new right thing by endorsing them, while oth- The corner of Webster Avenue and dents from Fordham University, creating Select Bus station, and the subway. It sits er communities have excluded them from 204th Street is a prime location that is amenities that could be enjoyed by us all. right at the entrance to Bronx Park and their neighborhoods. However, as this vital for setting the direction of future The problem is that non-profit hous- French Charlie’s Playground. housing continues crowding into our area, development along the rezoned Webster ing organizations, using public assis- Make no mistake, I support the pro- doing the right thing requires a different Avenue. Unfortunately, a development tance, have been rapidly buying property grams operated by the Doe Fund. I recog- approach now. planned by the Doe Fund would under- along Webster Avenue to build something nize the importance of the services they We can no longer accept every pro- mine the vision of a revitalized Webster very different from the community’s vi- provide to people in need, and as a former posed project. We must speak up and re- Avenue that was developed through years sion. Rather than mixed incomes with member of the Community Board I previ- quire the City to integrate these services of community effort. room for a strong middle-class, they are ously voted in support of another propos- into healthy communities by distributing The vision of a revitalized Webster proceeding to fill Webster with housing al they presented for a different location them equitably among neighborhoods Avenue was the result of much hard, col- that excludes the middle class. They are on Webster. This simply is not the right throughout the five boroughs. We need to lective work. It is something we need to eliminating the potential for vibrant new site for more supportive housing, and we oppose the plans for the corner of Web- protect. The Department of City Planning ster and 204th, but we must also advocate worked with Community Board 7 and oth- The problem is that non-profit housing organizations, for a fair process to locate these services. er concerned citizens for years to craft a We need the Department of City Planning plan to preserve the character of our nar- using public assistance, have been rapidly buying to review the zoning to ensure it delivers row residential streets while channeling property along Webster Avenue to build something on the vision we developed. City Plan- balanced growth to Webster Avenue. There ning cannot just rezone neighborhoods was a clear vision of ground-floor retail very different from the community’s vision. and then walk away when the develop- and a mixture of housing for residents of ment goes wrong. We need the help of the different incomes. What made the vision businesses, both by constructing build- must avoid concentrating poverty in Nor- housing agencies; they cannot continue to for Webster Avenue so compelling was that ings without retail space and by creating wood and Bedford Park. simply fund the most units wherever they it provided room for more professional a population without enough purchasing For many years, supportive housing and can build them. They must plan housing residents in our community without forc- power to form a viable customer base. other programs for homeless and at-risk as part of healthy communities. Most im- ing out people who already live here. The Losing the site at the corner of Webster populations have been added throughout portantly, we need the help of our elected rezoning also included an incentive to per- and 204th would be a major setback for re- Norwood and Bedford Park. Meanwhile, officials. I urge everyone to write their manently dedicate 20 percent of the units developing Webster, since it is among the cluster-site homeless housing has quietly elected officials to oppose this project and in participating buildings for lower-in- most attractive locations for middle-class carved away affordable apartments, re- to adopt “fair share” requirements. come residents to provide opportunities housing, probably the most challenging ducing the housing available for working Jay Shuffield is a Norwood resident and for all sections of our community. New portion of the vision to achieve. From families. These are necessary programs, member of Community Board 7 . Letters to the Editor handling by the DOE in the daily affairs increase workplace accident rates, and else. When I finally said I’m an educated Don’t Stifle Expression at of the school community. stimulate aggression and other anti-so- woman and don’t deserve to be treated MS 80, Koppell Cecilia Donovan cial behaviors. Who among us would like that, and won’t be coming back in As a parent of a child in MS 80 and as MS 80 Parent want to place our lives in the hands of there, she threw up her hands as if to a member of the community for over a a nurse, pharmacist or bus driver who say (whatever she mumbled to herself) decade, I am grateful that the concerns of sleepwalks through the day because that she didn’t care. Even if I wasn’t ed- the community and events that affect our Knox Place: The Noisiest their neighbors don’t know when to call ucated, I’m always polite when I ask for lives are reported in the Norwood News. Street in America? it a night? service. I have frequented the place for I read a letter in the Norwood News The unseasonably warm spring has Your home is a sanctuary from the the past two years that I have lived in written by our Councilman Oliver Kop- brought the early return of a disturbing stresses of the outside world -- but not if this neighborhood, and have never been pell who stated, “I think it would be ad- pastime on Knox Place in the Norwood you live on Knox Place. The time has come treated with such disrespect. There is vantageous to the entire community if section of the Bronx. For the second for the leadership of the 52nd Precinct, a very nice Mexican neighbor of mine the Norwood News would focus on the consecutive year, the north end of Knox Community Board 7, Knox Place building who works there and is ALWAYS nice to positive happenings at the school rather Place has been the site of almost nightly owners and the street’s residents to step me. She was there and asked if she could than highlight the negative occurrences, street parties that blaze on past midnight up and put a stop to this assault on the help me. I told her it’s OK, I think they which, in my opinion, provide a distorted through the early hours of the morn- health and well-being of their neighbors. are racist and prejudiced. picture.” ing. The partying includes pulsating mu- Cynthia Tuohy I found out by speaking with another What is truly distorted is the council- sic at stadium volumes, skateboarding, Norwood Resident business owner two doors down, that the man making a long waited visit to see a ball playing, barking dogs and bellowing establishment is now owned by a wom- snapshot of what goes on at MS 80. Just conversation, all fueled by alcohol passed an from Ecuador. I went back and asked as he talked about the two members of not-so-discreetly through first-floor win- Rude Awakening at Mi one of the Mexican males that works in the staff that praised Mr. Polanco for his dows. School nights are not exempt from Casa the kitchen when the Ecuadorian owner leadership and his caring attitude, Mr. the reveling, which can be heard and felt Mi Casa Bakery on Bedford Park Bou- would be there. He smiled and said one Koppell doesn’t truly know what is going in apartments and private homes up and levard….I used to like patronizing this hour. on at MS 80. down the once-peaceful street. bakery. I liked their cinnamon toasted This communication will be duplicat- Our children do! Throughout history, sleep depriva- bagels with cream cheese and extra jel- ed and air mailed to (1) the owner, (2) the I am thankful that as members of the tion and the imposition of unwanted ly. Also liked the fact that they open at 5 district leader, (3) Community Board #7, community, we have a voice, and, like Mr. noise have served as highly reliable tor- a.m. However, this morning when I went (4) Norwood News (which I read some- Koppell, can express our opinions. If we ture techniques. Don’t the residents of to speak with the Turkish woman who times when there), News12 the Bronx, are truly concerned about the future of the Bronx, especially our children, face I thought owned the place of business etc., and whoever else will listen. By the the young people in this community, pol- enough challenges without having to live about the poor service I received yester- way, the bodega worker a couple of doors iticians need to assist with the needs of in an environment made toxic by the self- day from one of the staffers, she said she down agreed with me that the Albanian its constituents. Rightfully so, Mr. Koppell ishness of idle neighbors? didn’t want to hear it. woman who works there is rude. I never has made it possible for MS 80 to have air In addition to learning disabilities I started out politely. I asked her if thought that the Islamic Turkish sister conditioners to keep the school commu- and hearing loss, high blood pressure she was the owner, didn’t get a straight would treat me like that as well. But she nity cool. But to discuss demonstrations and cardio-vascular ailments can be answer. Instead, her response was I’ll showed her true colors today, 6/24/13. I that highlighted the concerns of parents found in children who are chronically talk about that (pointing to where the would like an apology. and staff alike seems to imply that we exposed to loud noise. Elevated noise coffee/self service was), this (point- Thais Hockaday didn’t have the right to express the mis- levels have been proven to create stress, ing to the baked products), but nothing Bedford Park resident June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News n 11 Inside Albany: The Search for Jeff Klein (continued from page 1) “I don’t keep tabs on him,” says Gustavo Rivera, who’s Jeff Klein, who is nowhere to be found. been critical of Klein’s coalition since it was formed this past winter. With the four independents in the fold, Dem- Klein in the Spotlight ocrats would have a slim majority in the Senate. Klein, whose district stretches from the far east Rivera is fully behind the Assembly’s campaign fi- Bronx to Riverdale, is a legislative X factor. He and nance bill. Even if the votes aren’t there, Rivera says Republican co-leader Dean Skelos each have veto pow- it’s good to have a debate on the legislation and find out er over what bills come to the floor, which has made where everybody stands. Klein a target for advocates who believe he is standing But maybe that’s just him. “I’m actually far more lib- in the way of the two biggest progressive agenda items eral than most of my colleagues,” he says. — campaign finance reform and the women’s equality At one point, Rivera, who teaches civics courses on package. the side, starts breaking it down for us -- the $140 billion The day before, on Tuesday, which also happened to budget, the 20 million New York state residents, the 63 be the first-ever Bronx Day event in Albany, activists senators, the 150 assembly members, the huge beautiful dropped hundreds of banners throughout Klein’s dis- building, the people who are telling you how great you trict, urging him to push campaign finance reform. are. It can be overwhelming, he says. By mid-afternoon on Wednesday, when the Norwood Photo by Alex Kratz “It’s incredibly important, not to forget what you’re News visited the state Capitol, Klein’s position had not The gorgeous lobby next to the Senate chamber is doing up here,” he says. changed. He didn’t support the campaign finance pack- the center of legislative activity in Albany and said to be age passed in the Assembly because he said it didn’t where the terms “lobbying” and “lobbyist” come from. A Klein Sighting go far enough and it didn’t have the votes to pass. And, Bronx Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. stands in the middle of it all. Klein’s office on the ninth floor of the Legislative- Of while he supported the 10 items on the women’s equal- fice Building is a good walk and an elevator ride from the ity agenda, he didn’t think the most controversial bill, in place in New York City, which would match campaign Senate chamber. It’s like a ghost town up there. Quiet. which would strengthen abortion rights language in contributions, 6 to 1, with state money. As we turn and enter the office reception area, Klein state law, could pass. “Why should we use money to finance politicians?” is standing in an adjacent conference room, talking with Klein had elected to break up the women’s equality Diaz says in his gruff, Cookie Monster-esque voice. Advo- his press aide, Eric Soufer. He looks us in the eye and package into 10 separate bills, so they could be voted cates of public financing say it will help rid the state of then looks away. Suddenly, as we make a move toward the on individually, although it wouldn’t matter unless the corruption by allowing grassroots candidates to run for conference room, Soufer stands up and walks toward the Assembly also voted on bills individually, which wasn’t office, but Diaz isn’t convinced. door and Klein vanishes. likely. He says the way to fix the system is to make their Soufer says Klein had a meeting to go to. Mean- At this point, Bronx legislators were, at least publicly, jobs full-time and eliminate outside income. (Legislators while, a secretary is relaying calls into Klein’s office. holding out hope on both pieces of legislation. are technically part-time employees who are paid about Though he was caught off-guard, Soufer recovers and The Capitol building is enormous and beautiful after $80,000 a year.) He also said terms should be extended starts talking about wonky legislation. He details why renovations were completed last year. It also lacks sig- from two years to four years. the Democrats’ campaign finance bill is weak (“It’s nage telling you where to go. A lovely middle-aged wom- “That would give you more time to attend to the peo- disingenuous to tell taxpayers that this will change an stopped us and asked where we wanted to go. She hap- ple’s business, less time getting money,” he says. anything.”) and laments the fact that they don’t come pily showed us the way to the Senate chambers. We asked Earlier in the week, Diaz’s good friend and former ally to Klein’s office and press for their local legislative pri- if she worked here. “Do I have to admit it?” she replied, in the Senate, Pedro Espada, was sentenced to five years orities. only half joking. in prison for embezzling money from his network of non- So, what about Klein? How’s he going to make things profit health clinics in the Bronx. move in these last days? What’s his strategy? “Constant Hassling Hassell-Thompson “To me that’s finished,” he says, wiping his hands and meetings,” Soufer says. On the ground floor, before heading up to the chambers shaking his head. “Now, all we can do is pray for him and Well, who’s he meeting with now? Soufer says he on the third floor, we bumped into Ruth Hassell-Thomp- his family.” doesn’t know. It remains a mystery. son, an Albany veteran who represents the Bronx and So, what about Klein? Mt. Vernon. After redistricting last year, she now also “He’s eating all the candies,” Diaz says. Epilogue: represents Norwood and Bedford Park. Recently, Diaz had written that the Democrats blew it As predicted, the session lasted well past midnight Hassell-Thompson was pleased. She had just emerged by not doing more to bring Klein into the fold and now he on Thursday and was extended to Friday. Democrats at- from a committee meeting where the new nominees for was reaping the benefits, distributing hundreds of thou- tached their public financing legislation onto a bill that the state Board of Parole were introduced. For the last sands of dollars to pet projects in his district, while Dem- would allow New Yorkers to temporarily use the old several years, there have been vacancies on the board. ocrats were left banging their heads against the wall. pull-levers on voting machines. Klein and the three other Last year, according to her chief of staff, Charlie Savage, “We have been patsies,” he says. Democrats in the Independent Democratic Conference Hassell-Thompson “balked” at the governor’s nominees Diaz predicted that the vast majority of bills would be voted for it, but Diaz Jr. and former IDC member Mal- because they lacked diversity. She approved of this year’s passed at around midnight on Thursday, the last sched- colm Smith, who’s facing bribery charges, voted against more diverse crop of nominees. uled day of the session. it. Meanwhile, the Assembly passed the entire women’s But what about campaign finance reform and women’s “They want to vote when everybody is sleeping,” he equality package, but the Senate passed only nine of the equality? She was holding out hope that the 10 women’s says. 10 bills in the women’s equality package, meaning none equality items and the campaign finance package would of it became law. be on the agenda, but she wasn’t against compromise. Frustration Among Liberals “We’re never willing to throw out the baby with the A short man in a sharp suit and bow tie walks past bath water,” she said. us. It’s Jose M. Serrano, the son of Bronx Congressman Hassell-Thompson, whose signature bill on no-fault Jose Serrano who represents parts of the west Bronx and divorce passed a couple of years ago, also wasn’t willing upper Manhattan. He’s now part of the Democratic Con- to throw Klein under the bus if things didn’t work out, ference leadership team. saying she “didn’t have time for that.” Turns out, it’s his 41st birthday. He looks much young- But, she added, “If he didn’t do it, then he didn’t do it. er. Serrano laments the lack of movement on progressive If you say you’re going to do something” — like put pro- issues this year under Klein’s leadership. One of Klein’s gressive, Democratic bills on the floor for a vote — “then signature bills, the passing of a minimum wage hike, do it. Don’t pretend like that’s what you’re going to do.” wasn’t as strong as it could have been, he says. “It hap- pened, but it didn’t happen,” he says. The Reverend Weighs In Why didn’t it happen? “You’d have to ask [Klein] Up in the Senate chambers, we instantly recognize that.” Soon, Serrano is encircled by a group of women Democrat Ruben Diaz Sr., a Pentecostal minister who from Planned Parenthood, who want the abortion piece represents the middle Bronx and who’s known as “The to move. Reverend.” He quickly tells us, with a hint of mischie- “We’re as frustrated as you are,” he tells them. vous glee, that he doesn’t support any of the Democrats Adriano Espaillat, the upper Manhattan senator who most progressive agenda items, including campaign nearly beat Charlie Rangel in the 13th Congressional Dis- finance reform and the abortion part of the women’s trict primary last June, says he’s settling in for a long equality package. couple of days. “I might have to go to Macy’s to buy some Photo by Alex Kratz The heart of the campaign finance reform package shirts,” he says. A look at the Capitol building, which was recently ren- is a new public financing system, much like the system The lobby is jumping now. But where’s Klein? ovated. 12 n June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News

Honor Your Recent Graduate! St. Patrick’s Honors Next issue, the Norwood News will be covering some of the recent graduation cer- emonies happening here in the Bronx neighborhoods we cover. If you want to recog- nize someone in your family or a friend who is making the next step in their life, send Centenarians high resolution digital images (jpeg or tiff files, preferably) of them to us with infor- By NATASHA RODRIGUEZ birthdays. We are very grateful for your mation about their lives and graduation details, at [email protected] contribution to the American story.” In or send hard copy photos and information to us at 3400 Reservoir Oval East, Bronx NY, In 1913, the average life expectancy in a statement, Mayor Michael Bloomberg 10467. Include contact information in case we have any questions. America was 50 years. However, just this wished the centenarians a “joyous day as week, St. Patrick’s Home for the Aged and you join your friends and family to cele- Infirm hosted their annual centennial cel- brate this milestone.” ebration to honor 10 of their residents who The 10 centenarians sat behind a long After Violence, Forums were more than 100 years old. These 10 re- table with reserved quietness, beaming markable individuals have lived to see 18 proudly as the children from the Hendy presidents in office and were alive when School of Dancing performed for them. Discuss Bullying One of the running jokes seemed to be that the American flag had just 45 stars on it. (continued from page 1) event. She said that there weren’t enough The festivities were held in the bright- out of the 10 centenarians, only two were the recreation center at St. James Park. people who were affected by this problem ly lit St. Joseph’s Hall with patriotic deco- men. The oldest of the group, was Anna The second forum, on June 14, was hosted in the audience and that there wasn’t an rations hanging from the ceiling and plen- Wowra, who had just turned 105. The as- at MS 80, where Polanco opened his doors opportunity for everyone to ask questions ty of jazz music. Most of the residents sistant administrator, Sister Kevin Patri- for the community to voice their concerns at the end. from the home were in attendance, look- cia, said that her wish for the centenarians about the issue. Guest speakers included “I think there would have been a much ing eager to celebrate. The event included was that “The days ahead of them will be police from the 52nd Precinct, ministers better turnout at MS 80 if children who the reading of a message from President lived with peace, happiness, and dignity.” from local churches, and various other had been bullied at the school, as well as Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, Afterwards, everyone in the room members of the community who offered the community at large were made aware which read: “We are blessed to join your wished those 10 special people 100 more solutions to the bullying problem. of the event. Not even staff inside the family and friends on your extraordinary years of life. Walter Bell, the chairperson of the school knew it was happening there.” said Youth Services/Public Safety & Quality Donovan. of Life committee at Community Board Though many parents continue to see 7, said the guest speakers talked about bullying as a problem, the Department of how they were taking steps to prevent Education (DOE) said the rate of bullying this violence from happening. The 52nd incidents has actually gone down this past Precinct, for example, said they would try year. According to the DOE, students actu- to interact with the local schools more. A ally feel safer than they did six years ago. representative of the Women’s Empow- “Since 2007, the percentage of students erment Self-Defense Academy said they stating that ‘students threaten or bully wanted to start empowerment programs other students at school,’ ‘most of the in schools as well as set up an anti-bully- time’ or ‘all of the time’ has decreased by Photo courtesy St. Patrick’s Home ing hotline. 10 percentage points, and last year, 90 per- The centenarians: (l-r) Anna Wowra, Julia Bizzarri, Margaret Igoe (in the back), Cecelia Donovan, a parent leader at cent of students agreed or strongly agreed Elizabeth Howell, Joseph Frankel, Charles McLaughlin, Bridget McCahill, Matilda Be- MS 80, attended the forum as well. She with the statement ‘I am safe in my class- lovic (in the back), Catherine Murphy and Elizabeth Howell. said the general message was one of vigi- es,’” said Marge Feinberg, a spokesperson lance and looking out for one another. for the DOE, in an email. “Most of the speakers talked about “Our partnership with the NYPD really paying attention to what the chil- School Safety Division, the prevention dren are doing,” said Donovan when de- and intervention work we are doing in scribing the forum. “A lot of people look our schools, and the changes to our Dis- the other way when these type of things cipline Code have all contributed to a happen, and I don’t want to sound like the continued reduction in crime, a decrease solution is a one-liner but ‘look out for in the number of behavioral incidents in each other’ was part of the theme they our schools, and a decrease in both princi- were trying to get across.” pal and superintendent suspensions this However Donovan also expressed her year as compared to the same period last disappointment over the turnout at the year,” she added. Neighborhood Notes Public Hearings on Federal Buy a Poe Paver The Bronx County Historical Society is Funding offering the public the chance to purchase NYC Department of Youth & Commu- a tax-deductible Poe paver, a fundraising nity Development (DYCD) announced a project based on the sale of inscribed com- public hearing on the allocation of feder- memorative pavers that are to be laid near al funding to combat poverty and support the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage in Poe Park. community-based programs. A Bronx Each paver costs $250, and will have your hearing will be held at the Betances Com- name and/or the date etched on it (two munity Center, 547 E. 146th St., on June 29 lines, 16 letters including spaces, per line). from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more infor- For more information, call (718) 881-8900. mation, call (212) 442-5880. Non-Profit Leaders Sought Performance Arts Grants We Are the Bronx is recruiting for Bronxites non-profit leaders for its 2013-2014 Fel- Casita Maria Center for Arts & Educa- lowship class, a 9-month professional tion is accepting proposals for its Perform- development and networking program to ing Arts Residency program to fund new receive leadership training with citywide works of theater, music, and spoken word experts. Application deadline is June 28. featuring Bronx-based artists. The center For more information, call (212) 983-4800 will award five $1,000 grants for produc- ext. 122 or visit wearethebronx.org/getin- tion costs and artist fees, and will provide volved. (continued on page 13) June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News n 13 Classifieds Professional Directory Beautician Services 617 E. Fordham Road (between Ar- Religious Services Law Offices thur and Hughes), Bronx, NY 10458. (Fordham University Section). 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Professional We are still doing carefree curls and General Practice, Obesity, Asthma, Friday night prayer service at 7 p.m. Directory: $144 for six months; $260 for press and curl. We also offer flat-iron- ADHD Visit us at www.goodnewscc. one year. To place an ad, call (718) 324-4998 ing. 20% off for seniors Tuesdays, Same-Day Appointment Every Day! wordpress.com. between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Wednesdays, and Thursdays. (718) 319-8999 SERVICES REAL ESTATE 7 bedrooms and 4 full baths. Parking and RELIGIOUS SERVICES back yard. New kitchen. New bathroom. Computer Repair: Upgrade, 2-Family House for Sale: Low down Wheelchair ramp. Great investment, it Glad Tidings Assembly of God: 2 Van troubleshooting: Laptop cracked screen, payment! Low interest rate! Fully will pay for itself. You will live for free! Cortlandt Ave. E. and Jerome Avenue. no power, overheating, virus removal, data renovated. Includes 3 BR over 3 BR and Location: Wakefield/Barnes, between 228th (718) 367-4040. Prayer Wednesdays at 11 recovery. Call James (646) 281-4475, (718) master bedroom. Wood floors and tile. Full and 229th streets. Minutes away from a.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sunday School at 9:30 324-4332 1-bedroom basement. This property has Montefiore Hospital. Please call owner: a.m. and Sunday Service at 11 a.m. (917) 622-5810. Price: $465,000 (neg.) Lease with option to buy, $1,800 per month. MISCELLANEOUS

Neighborhood Notes Apt. for Sale: 1-Bedroom apt. near Trip to Hershey Park: Saturday, July 13, Montefiore Hospital and all transportation. 2013. Leave at 8 a.m. from 163rd Street and (continued from page 12) For more information, call (914) 669-9067 Asking price: $95,000.00. Call Ray (917) Southern Boulevard. For more information, rehearsal and performing arts space. The or visit rockingtheboat.org. 517-0172 or (347) 427-4774. contact Eddie at (718) 757-5485. deadline for applications is July 8. For Studio Apt. for Rent: $1,025.00 rent, more information or to request an applica- Cash Paid: For antiques, old items, electricity and gas included. Near East tion, call (718) 589-2230 ext. 6193 or send an Free Pre-K collectibles, artwork, jewelry, books, The Catherine Corry Early Childhood 170th Street and Grand Concourse. email to [email protected]. records, coins, stamps, sports cards, bric- Academy, 4321 Barnes Ave., offers free Working people only. For more info, a-brac. Moving sales, estates, contents of universal pre-kindergarten for 2013-2014. contact Eddie at (718) 757-5485. homes. (718) 882-0598 (home), or (347) Free Sports Programs Seats are limited. For more information, 734-9261 (cell). City Parks Foundation kicks off its call (718) 231-0858 or visit www.sfabx.com. 2013 Summer Sports Program in Bronx Parks for youngsters ages five to 16, start- ing July 1. Local area parks include Wil- Free Head Start at MMCC The Mosholu Montefiore Community liamsbridge Oval, St. James Park, and Center, 3450 DeKalb Ave., offers free Head Van Cortlandt Park. Activities offered are Start classes for income eligible 3- and tennis, golf, and track and field instruc- 4-year-olds in its newly expanded Childhood tion. For more information and a full Development Center all year from 8:30 a.m. schedule of programs, call (212) 360-8205 to 2:30 p.m. at its main building as well as or visit www.CityParksFoundation.org. at its Northside Annex at 3512 Dekalb Ave., and its new site at 3880 Sedgwick Ave. at the Free Boat Rowing Van Cortlandt Jewish Community Center. The Bronx-based Rocking the Boat Breakfast, lunch, and snack are included. community rowing program offers visi- For more information and to register, call tors the opportunity to row on the Bronx (718) 882-4000 ext. 0 or visit the main center. River or enjoy a guided tour of the plants and wildlife of the park every Saturday For more Neighborhood Notes from noon to 5 p.m. through Aug. 31, until online, go to www.norwoodnews. Labor Day, at Hunts Point Riverside Park org and click on “Neighborhood (Edgewater Road at Lafayette Avenue). Notes.” 14 n June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News

Ensemble Concert, featuring a variety Avenue. For more information or a n Sunkofa Café & Boutique, 1789 Onstage of music, June 28 at 2 p.m.; as well as a detailed schedule including all Bronx Southern Blvd. at Boston Road and n The Bronx Library Center, at 310 E. variety of activities for the entire family. locations, call (917) 626-0525 or visit 174th Street, presents Wonder-Filled Kingsbridge Rd., presents A Musical For more information and a detailed cityparksfoundation.org. Women’s Healing & Wellness Day, June Tribute to Sam Cooke, June 29; and schedule, call (718) 365-5516/5545. 29 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (admission by n The Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance Noche en la Argentina: Hard Tango donation). Learn about holistic healing, n City Parks Foundation presents (BAAD), 841 Barretto St., presents Out Trio, July 6; both at 2:30 p.m. For more yoga, self care, meditation, workshop, Summerstage, a series of free summer Like That! Festival, featuring Living With information, call (718) 579-4244/46/57 or and more. First 15 ladies to register events, including Sammy Garcia y Sabor Pride: Ruth Ellis at 100, June 27 at 8 p.m. visit www.nypl.org. receive premium gift bags. Register at de Puerto Rico on June 27 at 7 p.m.; and (free), film documentary of a 100-year- [email protected]. For n The New York Botanical Garden Bronx Family Day, on June 29, featuring old African-American lesbian recounting more information, call (347) 590-2394 or presents A Brief History of Italian Music a variety of activities and entertainment her life; and Queerlesque, closing night (646) 259-5990. in Jazz, featuring Simona Premazzi from 4 to 7 p.m.; followed by Rock featuring queer burlesque performers, and her ensemble, June 27 from 6 to Steady Crew, featuring a master dance June 28 at 8 p.m. ($20). For more n The Woodlawn Conservancy presents 9 p.m. (rain or shine), in an open air class at 7 p.m. and dance performances information, call (718) 842-5223. Countee Collected: Honoring Countee pavilion tent (bring blanket and picnic at 8 p.m.; all at St. Mary’s Park, on St. Cullen, June 29 at 3 p.m., at the dinner for before the concert on the Ann’s Avenue and 146th Street and Events Woodlawn Cemetery. This free event Conservatory Lawn). Tickets are $20/ St. Ann’s Avenue. Also scheduled is celebrates the works of poet Countee Cullen, and features poets and singer members; $30/non members (advance The Carpetbag Brigade, part of the n St. Ann’s Church, 3519 Bainbridge performing original works. Suggested tickets recommended; includes one International Contemporary Circus Ave., holds summer flea market, Fridays $10 donation for adults. For more complimentary cocktail for over age 21, Festival, July 10 at 10:30 a.m. at Mt. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. information, call (718) 920-1469. or non-alcoholic beverage). For more Hope Playground, East 177th Street and from July 12 through Aug. 17. Vendors information, call (718) 817-8700. Walton Avenue; and Mr. Chris’ Musical welcome. For more information, call n Bronx Museum of the Arts presents free Experience, July 11 at 10:30 a.m. at Van (718) 547-9350. n Poe Park’s Visitor Center, 2640 Cortlandt Park’s Classic Playground, outdoor film screening, “Suite Habana,” July 5 from 6 to 10 p.m., at Joyce Kilmer Grand Concourse, presents Bardekova Van Cortlandt Park South and Orloff n The Botanical Garden presents its Park, Grand Concourse between 161st and Greenmarket, farmers market at the base 164th streets (bring blanket). Rain location of the Library Allee inside the Mosholu is at the museum, 1040 Grand Concourse, Gate entrance, Wednesdays through 2nd floor North Wing. Also scheduled is Nov. 27, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more a free Bronx Calling Bike Tour, to explore information, call (718) 817-8658. the Bronx along the Grand Concourse n The Fordham Road BID presents free between the Bronx Museum and Wave outdoor movie, “Despicable Me,” June Hill. Begin at the museum on June 29 28 at 8:30 p.m. at Fordham Plaza (189th and at Wave Hill on July 13. Registration Street and Third and Park avenues). Bring is required online at www.wavehill.org or a chair or blanket. For more information, call Wave Hill at (718) 549-3200 ext. 305, call (718) 562-2104. or at WH’s Perkins Visitor Center. Meet at the Bronx Museum of the Arts from 10 n Bronx Borough President Ruben a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, Diaz Jr. invites the public to celebrate call (718) 681-6000. Caribbean Heritage Month 2013, featuring music, live entertainment and n The Great Bronx Bar Tour will take refreshments, on June 27 from 6 to 8 place on July 13 from noon to 8 p.m. p.m., in the Bronx County Building’s to benefit the Bronx Historical Society. Veterans Memorial Hall, 851 Grand Participants will enjoy beer, drink and Concourse. For more information or food specials at 25 bars, and receive to RSVP, call (718) 590-3522 or email matching bar tour T-shirts, a map of [email protected]. all participating bars, and drop-off and pickup locations, visiting at your own n Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz pace, using a free trolley bus service. Jr. and NYS Senator Jeff Klein present Tickets are $50 on the website www. New York Salutes America Fireworks TheGreatBronxBarTour.com, as of June Extravaganza on June 28 from 6 to 10 21, and $40 on July 13 at the Jolly Tinker p.m. at Orchard Beach, featuring live Bar, 2875 Webster Ave. and the Bronx music and children’s entertainment, Beer Hall, 2344 Arthur Ave. For more rain or shine. Parking is $7. Shuttle bus information, visit the website. service will be available between Pelham Bay Park and Orchard Beach. n Wave Hill, a Bronx oasis at 675 W. 252nd St. in Riverdale, offers Family Arts n The Westchester Square BID presents Projects: Lanterns for Summer Light, Blast From the Past, featuring the Just to make paper mâché lanterns, June 29 Nuts Party Dance Band playing music of and 30, in the Ecology Building, 10 a.m. all eras, June 29 from noon to 3 p.m. For to 1 p.m.; and Garifuna International more information, call (718) 597-4629 or Band, July 10 at 7 p.m. on the grounds. visit wsbid.org. Grounds admission is free Saturdays June 27–July 10, 2013 n Norwood News n 15 until noon all year, and free Tuesdays presents Pastimes & Pleasures: Having until noon in June and all day in July. Fun in the Bronx, through Oct. 20. For Editor’s Pick Glyndor Gallery tours take place more information, call (718) 881-8900. Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m.; Welcome Home Weekend at Wave Hill garden walks are held Tuesdays and n The New York Botanical Garden Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 2 presents Wild Medicine: Healing Plants The Wave Hill House, located at 675 W. 252nd St. in Riverdale, reopens July 6/7 p.m., from the Perkins Visitor Center. Around the World, Featuring the weekend after a two-year renovation, and all activities and grounds admission For more information and a schedule of Italian Renaissance Garden, including are free all weekend. Activities on July 6 include martial arts at the Perkins Visitor events, call (718) 549-3200. interactive stations with activities Center at 10 a.m. Activities on July 7 include Hatha Yoga (all levels); and Family and samples of products made from Yoga (ages 3 to 5), both at 10 a.m. at the Perkins Visitor Center; and Meditation at n The public is invited to ride the free therapeutic plants, through Sept. 8. WH House at 11:30 a.m. Bronx Culture Trolley, which transports For more information, call (718) 817- visitors on the first Wednesday of every 8512/8637. Activities on July 6 and 7 include collaborative art in Armor Hall, WH House, 1 to month (except January and September), 4 p.m.; live Irish music, on the grounds, 1:30 to 4 p.m.; free cool herbal drinks, at n to free Bronx hot spots. Trolley night starts The Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 the Mark Twain Room, WH House at 2 p.m.; and Family Arts Project “Pineapple with a 5 p.m. reception at the Longwood Grand Concourse, presents State of Welcome Wishes,” to make a pineapple hat, in the WH House Kerlin Learning Art Gallery at Hostos Community College, Mind: New California Art Circa 1970, Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 450 Grand Concourse (at 149th St.). From story of the California artists of the ‘60s there, the trolley departs at 5:30, 6:30 and ‘70s.who impacted artists across the See additional WH listings under “Events.” Call in advance to confirm, and for and 7:30 p.m. On July 3, riders can visit country; and Bronx Calling: The Second more information and a detailed schedule of events, call (718) 549-3200. exhibitions at the gallery, a book signing AIM Biennial, a variety of work by Artists and reading at the Bronx Museum, a tour in the Marketplace participants (free). and Leaf Book Making: July 11 at 2 p.m. n The Jerome Park Library, at 118 of Andrew Freedman Mansion, a dance Both exhibits run through Sept. 8. For For more information, call (718) 579- Eames Place, offers Cooking at 4 p.m.: performance at Pregones Theatre; and more information, call (212) 671-5169. 4244/46/57 or visit www.nypl.org. (for teens/young adults), June 27. conclude with fine food and drink at Clock Children can enjoy Presley and Melody: Cafe and Martini Bar. Riders can get on and Library Events n The Mosholu Library, at 285 E. 205th (ages infants to 12 years), June 28 at 2 off at any scheduled stop and spend as St., offers for seniors and adults: p.m.; and Film: (ages 5 to 12), July 8 much time as they wish at any or all of the n The Bronx Library Center, at 310 E. Knitting Circle: Thursdays at 3 p.m.; at 2 p.m. Adults can attend Computer featured venues. For more information and Kingsbridge Rd., presents programs Wii Program: Tuesdays at 3 p.m.; and Basics at noon: June 27, July 2, 9 and a detailed schedule, call (718) 931-9500 ext. for adults including Computer Basics: Adults Beaded Jewelry: June 28 at 2 11. For more information, call (718) 549- 33 or log on to www.bronxarts.org. July 1; and MS Powerpoint 2010 for p.m. Teens/young adults can attend Arts 5200. Beginners: July 3, both at 6 p.m. Teens/ and Crafts: July 2 at 3 p.m. Children NOTE: Items for consideration may young adults can attend Teen Theatre, can enjoy NXT Robotics: (ages 5 to 12; be mailed to our office or sent to Exhibits “Jack the Giant Slayer”: June 27 at 3 phone or in-person registration required), to make robots out of legos, July 8 at [email protected], and n p.m. Children can enjoy Preschool Story The Bronx County Historical Society’s should be received by July 1 for the next Time at 11 a.m.: June 27; Film: July 9 at 2:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) Museum of Bronx History at the Valentine- 882-8239. publication date of July 11. Varian House, 3266 Bainbridge Ave., 2 p.m.; Fan Making: June 27 at 4 p.m.;

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