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ORWOODQ EWSQ NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 ORWOODQ EWSQ Vol 34, No 4 • Pu b l i s h e d By Mo s h o l u Preservation Co r p o r a t i o n • Fe b r u a r y 18-Ma r c h 3, 2021 NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 FREE Bullying Survivor Inspires Kids at P.S. 294 Couple Spread Love On Valentine’s Day pg 2
Elections 2021: Kevin Pazmino Profile pg 12
Photo by Síle Moloney Shira Blumenthal, founder of the anti-bullying movement, #HatNotHate (far right) joins students and staff at P.S. 294, Walton Avenue School, in the Mt Eden section of the Bronx, on Thursday, Feb. 11, to donate 500 blue knit hats to students and raise awareness about bullying.
By SÍLE MOLONEY girl with short frizzy hair, buck website, hatnothate.org. which she told other kids her When she was nine years teeth, and very little confidence. Then, there was another mother had invented. Blumen- old, Shira Blumenthal, founder At the start of fourth grade, she “cool” girl in her class, who, she thal said she can’t remember the New Computer Center of the nationwide anti-bully- had two friends. “They were a wrote, was friends with every- first time she was bullied by the For Fordham Library ing movement, #HatNotHate, little cooler than I was, but that one, boys and girls, and who al- girl, but she continually made was a self-described, chubby didn’t faze me,” she writes on her ways wore a bra strap headband, (continued on page 19) pg 13
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VIST OUR WEB SITE AND VIEW OUR TESTMONIALS WWW.212ANSWERS.COM 2 • February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News Couple Hand out Vol. 34, No. 4 Gift Cards on Vol. 27, No. 10 NorwoodVol. News 27, No.is published 10 bi-weekly on Thursdays by Valentine’s Day MosholuNorwood Preservation News Corporationis published (MPC) Norwood3400 Reservoir News isOval published East bi-weekly on Thursdays by by DAVID GREENE bi-weeklyBronx, New on ThursdaysYork 10467 by MosholuPhone: Preservation 718 324 4998Corporation Mosholu Preservation Corporation A couple celebrating St. Valentine’s 3400Fax: Reservoir 718 324 Oval2917 East E-mail: [email protected] Reservoir Oval East Day, who wanted to give back to elderly Bronx, New York 10467 Web.:Bronx, www.norwoodnews.org New York 10467 residents of Fordham Manor, spent some of the day attempting to hand out eight Publisher Phone: 718 324 4998 Phone: 718 324 4998 $25 gift cards at their local supermarket Mosholu PreservationFax: 718 324 Corporation 2917 to surprised and grateful shoppers. E-mail: [email protected]: 718 324 2917 ExecutiveE-mail: [email protected] Director of MPC Early on Sunday morning, Feb. 14, JenniferWeb: Tausig www.norwoodnews.org Web: www.norwoodnews.org Joseph Riley and his wife of ten years, Editor-In-Chief, Norwood News Monique Ferguson-Riley, showed up at Síle Moloney [email protected] CEO, Mosholu the Food Universe on East 194th Street, Publisher CEO, Mosholu MosholuInterns Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQ between Marion Avenue and Bainbridge Mosholu Preservation CorporationDawn Clancy, Rachel DallooCorporation3UHVHUYDWLRQ Avenue, and handed out the $25 Visa gift Corporation Corporation Regular Contributors Roberto S. Garcia cards to customers walking down the Editor-in-Chief Roberto S. Garcia DavidEditor-in-Chief Cruz Greene, José A. Giralt, aisles, or at the checkout line. MiriamDavid Cruz Quiñones, Adi Talwar Ferguson-Riley was born in Miami Photo by David Greene and raised in New York, while Riley was &ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ Joseph Riley and his wife, Monique Ferguson-Riley, spend their St. Valentine’s &ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ born in Houston. The couple met back DawnFor McEvoyDisplay Advertising Day morning giving out $25 gift cards to random customers at the Food Universe on Dawn McEvoy in 2008 in Saint Paul, Minnesota where $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOHCall Janet Geller at East 194th Street on Sunday, Feb. 14, 2021. $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH Dawn(646) McEvoy 581-0399 they both worked at a Borders book- Dawn McEvoy store. The chain closed in 2011, and the Proofreader couple now live in The Bronx. Accord- some older people that are in need and we’ll continue to find somebody,” and he JudySupportProofreader Noy Your Judy Noy ing to Ferguson-Riley, today, the couple helping towards their food. Some peo- walked back down the aisle. 3URGXFWLRQCommunity Newspaper! are “proud business owners, parents ple reacted real funny, but I’m assum- Meanwhile, Ferguson-Riley said that NeilThe3URGXFWLRQ deMauseNorwood News is a not-for-profit publicationNeil deMause and relies upon the support of and (are) thriving” in their marriage. ing they didn’t want to be on camera. she shops at the store because Food Uni- 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUVits advertisers and readers to produce a The two run the Freedom Youth Other people really appreciated getting verse didn’t raise their prices dramati- Davidquality5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV Greene, community Adi Talwar newspaper. To support yourDavid paper, Greene, become Adi Talwar a member and receive a Family Justice Center, Inc., a nonprofit the gift card.” cally when the pandemic hit, unlike Interns subscriptionInterns for one year. based on Broadway in Manhattan, Meanwhile, when asked if this was other stores in the area. “It’s a good store Shayla Love, Paolo Mossetti, Justin McCallum, whose ongoing work with combating their first time giving to strangers, Ri- and I like to shop here,” she added. andSimplyShayla Chelsea mailLove, check George Paolo or Mossetti, money orderJustin for McCallum, $40 to: Norwoodand Chelsea News, George 3400 Reservoir Oval East, human trafficking and domestic vio- ley replied, “No, it’s not our first time... After a few more refusals of his good- Bronx, NY 10467. lence has previously been reported on one of the things we do is combat hu- w i l l don at ion , R i ley s a id he b el ieve d s ome For display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. For display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. by the Norwood News. man trafficking and domestic violence, shoppers may have been undocumented, Norwood News is not responsible for Supporttypographical Your errors. Opinions expressed in As he scouted for potential shoppers but we love to give back. Our motto is and as such, may have been wary of be- signedSupport letters Your and bylined columns represent to whom he could hand out some of the always, if we get something, we try our ing recorded on video. In total, the cou- Community Newspaper! the sole opinion of the author and are not gift cards, Riley was overheard by the best to give what we have back, so that’s ple gave out gift cards to seven shoppers, ThenecessarilyCommunity Norwood those News Newspaper! ofLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE Mosholu Preservation - The Norwood NewsLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE- licationCorporation and relies or Montefiore upon the supportMedical of Center.its Norwood News, which filmed the occa- what it’s about.” mostly seniors, and one retired member advertisersEditorialslication and represent and relies readers upon the thetoviews produce support of the aof editorquality its sion, telling Food Universe manager, As hard as it is to make a dollar, it’s of the Army National Guard. communityonly.advertisers The newspaper newspaper.and readers reserves To to supportproduce the yourright a quality paper, Jose Mimya, “I come here all the time, apparently just as hard to give away Asked how long the couple have tocommunity limit or refuse newspaper. advertising To support it deems your paper, become a member and receive a subscription so I figured we’d do a little something cash. At one point, Riley was seen ap- been doing this, Joseph replied, objectionable.become a member Advertisements and receive appearinga subscription forin thisone paper year. cannot be used without in the area.” proaching one female shopper near the “From day one.. whatever we get.. if for one year. the written permission of the Norwood Mimya was asked if anyone had fruit counter. He politely waited for we get food, we figure we give it right SimplyNews. Lettersmail check to the or moneyeditor are order subject for $40 to ever handed out gift cards at Food Uni- another person to pass between them, back, and we do this all the time,” to:condensationSimply Norwood mail checkNews, and orediting.3400 money Reservoir Writers order forshouldOval $40 East, include their affiliation or special interest if verse in the ten-plus years it’s been in and then began to get a bit closer to the during holidays like Thanksgiving, Bronx,to: Norwood NY 10467. News, 3400 Reservoir Oval East, any.Bronx, Anonymous NY 10467. letters are not published business. Referring to a woman at the woman than the recommended, 6-foot, Christmas and Valentine’s Day. but your name can be withheld upon Norwoodrequest. News is not responsible for typo- checkout counter to whom Ferguson- social distancing threshold. Despite the Moments after receiving her gift graphicalNorwood errors.News isOpinions not responsible expressed for intypo signed- Riley had just handed a gift card, he fact that he was wearing the required card, Iris Fevus, a Briggs Avenue graphical errors. Opinions expressed in signed letters and bylined columns represent the sole replied, “Here? No, but that woman was face covering, the woman seemed to be a resident, said “I was on line, and all letters and bylined columns represent the sole opinion of the author and are not necessarily really happy.” bit suspicious of Riley’s motives. of a sudden they presented me with opinion of the author and are not necessarily those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations Explaining the reason behind the As he attempted his pitch, telling this card, and I didn’t expect it, no RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHSthose of Mosholu Preservation Corporations- giveaway, the nonprofit founder said, the woman, “I work with a nonprofit...” Sir. That was a good Valentine’s. Of resentRU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS the views of the editor and/or publisher- “Basically, I have an older neighbor the woman shook her head, and said, course, every little bit helps the way only.resent The the newspaper views of the reserves editor and/or the right publisher to limit oronly. refuse The advertisingnewspaper it reserves deems objectionable. the right to limit downstairs, and she’s often times in “No.” He tried to continue, “No, listen. things are now with this COVID, Advertisementsor refuse advertising appearing it deems in this objectionable. paper cannot need of help or just wanting a conver- You don’t want this? It’s $25 off your and economic problems we’re going beMosholuAdvertisements used without Preservation theappearing written Corporation inpermission this paper is a of non-cannot Nor- sation with people, so I was thinking of purchase.” The woman again shook her through.” profitbe used support without corporation the written permissionof Montefiore of Nor- wood News. Letters to the editor are subject her and other people like her that are head and repeated, “No.” “We really appreciate it,” Fevus Medicalwood News. Center. Letters to the editor are subject to condensation and editing. Writers should often left out, and don’t have anybody Riley did not push the matter, and continued, “It’s a shame. I’ve been to condensation and editing. Writers should LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ during Valentine’s day or on special walked away with a regretful smile, living here for 39 years and I’ve seen AnonymousLQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ letters are not published but your days.” saying, “It’s weird, it’s a $25 gift card... it go from good to what we’re going nameAnonymous can be letters withheld are if not requested. published but your name can be withheld if requested. Ferguson-Riley continued, “So, I trying to spread a little cheer, a little through now. Life has changed and just wanted to come out here and help spirit of love in the season of love, but every little bit helps.”
Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a QRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUHMosholu Preservation Corporation is a MedicalQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH Center. Medical Center. February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 3 Bedford Park Mosque Organizes Coat Drive By JOSÉ A. GIRALT On a cold but bright and sunny after- noon, members of “Masjidus Sabur” set up a table on Bainbridge Avenue in Bed- ford Park for their annual winter coat and essentials drive. Masjidus is the Is- lamic term for mosque. Iman Alprentice Talibudeen McCutchen helped manage the event on Feb. 5 in front of the mosque, located at 2975 Bainbridge Avenue. “In today’s event, we’re giving away [free] coats for children as well as teenagers and adults... and book bags,” he said. A group of four to five volunteers joined McCutchen in manning a folding table surrounded by multiple boxes of coats in a variety of colors, still neatly folded and wrapped in protective plastic. They took turns approaching people who were walking along both sidewalks, di- recting them towards the table. Many of the adults who stopped by were accompa- nying school-aged children. Although none of the visitors agreed to be interviewed on the record, several expressed gratitude for the free coats and book bags. One adult said in Span- Photo by José A. Giralt ish, “Esto es bueno,” [This is good]. Coat Members of Masjidus Sabur, a mosque on Bainbridge Avenue, volunteer during their Annual Winter Coat & Essentials Drive drives like these are not new for the mem- in Bedford Park on Friday, Feb. 5, 2021. They were stocked with 75 coats and 30 book bags for distribution. bers of the mosque. Originally formed in 1995 in Harlem, Masjidus Sabur moved ity, 33 percent more than the average into their current location in Bedford American household. Charitable dona- Park five years ago. “We’ve been doing tions also often stay close to home. For coat drives since our inception [in Har- example, after Hurricane Sandy dev- lem] for the past 20 years,” McCutchen astated parts of Staten Island in 2012, said. 900 individuals from Muslim organiza- On the day of the event, they were tions volunteered to deliver food, con- stocked with 75 coats and “about 30 book ducted needs assessment, and helped bags,” according to McCutchen. The coat with clean-up efforts. drive was completely funded by contri- Abdul-Jalil said that the mosque’s butions from the mosque’s members, members are committed to being good which number around 75. Iman Umar neighbors in Bedford Park and beyond. Abdul-Jalil is the senior iman at Masji- Although they are a faith-based group, dus Sabur, and is retired from his secu- he said that they believe that reaching Photo by José A. Giralt lar job as a commissioner with the City’s out beyond the Islamic community is Alprentice Talibudeen McCutchen (no hat), a member of Masjidus Sabur, a Department of Corrections. mosque on Bainbridge Avenue, points out a coat to a child on Friday, Feb. 5, 2021. Mc- an important aspect of their religion. He is especially proud of the ties that Cutchen is surrounded by other adult members of the mosque who volunteered during Acknowledging that Muslims are members maintain with the mosque their Annual Winter Coat & Essentials Drive. not immune to the negative effects of even after they move away. “We have the pandemic, economic and otherwise, members that stretch out throughout the ect of the Institute for Social Policy and number of the City’s Muslims work in he said he feels that members want to five boroughs. We have members that Understanding, found that Muslims front line services. For example, Mus- do more for others. “We are not promot- live in Maryland, members that live in make up 8.96 percent of the City’s popula- lims make up 57.5 percent of people who ing religiosity,” Abdul-Jamil said. “We Georgia,” Abdul-Jalil told the Norwood tion. Some, though not all, of Norwood’s work at food stands, and 39.2 percent are promoting neighborly needs. We News. Bengali community, for example, are of those who work in the taxi industry, are part of the neighborhood.” “We have people that relocate, people Muslim. two sectors still badly hit by the flail- When asked what would happen to in North Carolina, but they still send The report found that this extremely ing economy. any coats and book bags left over from their monthly donations as part of their diverse populace includes descendants On the other hand, Muslims make the event, McCutchen said he sees membership here.” He clarifies, how- of Muslims who have lived in the United up 9.7 percent of those who work in the an opportunity for another giveaway ever, that those members who attend the States’ geographical area since before medical profession, while 8.1 percent of event. “We’ll take stock, so we can do it mosque on Bainbridge Avenue in person, its founding, arriving in America as those who work in respiratory therapy, another day,” he said. “We try to sup- span from Mt. Vernon to Staten Island. early explorers and enslaved Africans, specifically, are Muslim. port the community as much as pos- As reported previously by the Nor- as well as recent immigrants from 75+ In terms of charitable work, in 2016, sible.” wood News, a 2018 report by the group, nations. the report found that Muslim New York- *Síle Moloney contributed to this Muslims for American Progress, a proj- The report also found that a large ers donated over $608 million to char- story. 4 • February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER By DAVID GREENE This week, we asked readers how they planned to celebrate St. Valentine’s Day amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I do have plans with a special guy this “I got divorced two years ago and once “My husband and I were planning on “My husband and I are spending the day at “It’s good that they’ve, at least, opened year for Valentine’s Day. We talked about I was ready to get back into the dating dressing up and dining out, but due home, making a romantic meal with both the small businesses and restaurants at 25 the possibility of going out to a restaurant scene, the coronavirus hit. With the to COVID, dining out will be extremely of us sharing the cooking, while sharing a percent now, but small businesses need for this day, and we both decided it’s best diffi culties of social distancing and being packed no matter where we make glass of wine. There is nothing betterREGEIS than more support in the city of New York. My to just stay at his place, and he’s going to safe, I had to think outside the box for reservations. So, I went out and purchased to be in the comfort of your own home, concerns basically are the new housing cook for me. It is because we are choosing meeting potential dates. A few friends of a backdrop, bought some aged wine and cooking exactly what we prefer. AndCARE since developments CENTER going up in our community, not to be around too many people, and mine suggested I join a dating group on prepped our three-course meal which it’s Sunday, it’s a perfect day to relaxA fiveand starCOVID facility vaccinations providing and getting more who knows if restaurants are going to Facebook and here I am. I, unfortunately, consists of toasted garlic bread and enjoy a great dinner with great company. people tested. I don’t celebrate Valentine’s get crowded on Valentine’s Day, due to didn’t fi nd anyone to join me this homemade sauceREGEIS for dipping. I will be Even though indoor dining has opened,excellent we Day. care I’m Muslim in the and we Bronx don’t celebrate reopening of indoor dining on this holiday. Valentine’s Day, but I am hopeful for next making a tossed salad to go along with are playing it safe for a while.” and WestchesterValentine’s. Every areas day is a day of love and I do miss indoor dining, but we can wait year. With the vaccine, and more meeting chicken and shrimp, with jasmine rice Mirtha Paez happiness for our wives.” for another time in the future.” venues opening, I believe it will be easier and broccoliCARE and carrots, or his choice of CENTERKingsbridge Aldo Rafael Perez Michelle Love to meet someone.” mashed potatoes and fi nishing the course Bedford Park Norwood Gonzalo Duran with homemade strawberry cheesecake. Belmont We want to stillA feel fivelike we are heading starPersonalized out facility care - Skilled providing rehabilitation - Professional staff somewhere we both love, so we will dress up. We also wanted to perform an act of kindness to theexcellent ones that are oftentimes care in the Bronx overlooked, and may have lost their signifi cant other, so we will be randomly selecting eldersand in a nearby Westchestergrocery store areas and present them with gift cards.” Monique Ferguson-Riley Fordham Manor REGEIS REGEIS Personalized care - REGEISSkilledREGEIS rehabilitationCARE CENTER - Professional staff CARECARE CENTER CENTER CAREAA five star star facility facility CENTER providingA providing five star facility providing excellentexcellent care care in the in Bronx excellentthe Bronx care in the Bronx Aandand five WestchesterWestchester star facilityareas areas providing excellent careand in the Westchester Bronx areas Personalized care - Skilled rehabilitation - Professional staff Personalized care - Skilledand rehabilitation Westchester - Professional areas staff 3200 Baychester Avenue Bronx, NY 10475
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District 15 City Council sign painters, metal polish- ers, bridge and structural NEWS Race: Several Labor Unions steel painters, civil service painters, lead abatement BRIEFS Endorse Ischia Bravo workers, glaziers and archi- tectural metal glasswork- By SÍLE MOLONEY development and passing ers, paint makers, and al- By SÍLE MOLONEY District manager for of the “Fair Wages for New lied tradesmen. The union DeWitt Clinton H.S. Bronx Community District Yorkers” Act, the nation’s represents more than 11,000 Launch Podcast 7 (CB7) and Democratic can- first significant “living members across the region. Last September, Christian Avilés, th a Spanish Teacher at DeWitt Clin- didate in the 15 District wage” bill, in 2012. Joe Azzopardi is the ton H.S. helped launch a podcast to City Council race, Ischia RWDSU president, Stu- union’s business manager provide the students with an outlet Bravo, has secured the sup- art Appelbaum said Bravo and secretary treasurer. to document their experiences of re- port of several major labor has a long record of service He described Bravo as a mote learning and share a space to self-reflect on their current experi- unions just weeks before and leadership in her lo- lifelong Bronx native and ences amid the pandemic. “Gover- the special election is due to cal community. “She’ll be community advocate who is nor’s Radio,” named for the school’s be held on March 23. Bravo a fighter for the Bronx and Photo by Adi Talwar I determined to improve the mascot, was born and can be ac- is running to fill the seat of the many RWDSU members SCHIA BRAVO, district quality of life for every resi- cessed via the school’s website, on manager for Bronx Commu- former Councilman and now who live in her district,” he dent in District 15. Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google nity Board 7, has received the Podcasts via https://governorsradio. Congressman, Ritchie Tor- said. Bravo was previously en- endorsement of several major buzzsprout.com/. res, who was elected to Con- Meanwhile, District dorsed by Bronx Borough Every week, students come up city unions in her run for the gress in November 2020. Council 37, AFSCME, is President Ruben Diaz Jr., with discussion topics, and with District 15 City Council seat. many extra-curricular activities can- Bravo has secured the New York City’s largest pub- in addition to prior endorse- celled this year, which has affected support of the Retail, Whole- lic employee union, with staffing, and healthcare for ments from State Senators many students’ college applications, sale and Department Store 125,000 members and 50,000 all. They are New York’s Jessica Ramos and Alessan- the podcast has allowed some of them retirees. DC 37 members largest union and profes- dra Biaggi, the latter repre- to showcase their work to acceptance Union (RWDSU), the New committees. York State Nurses Associa- include over 1,000 job titles sional association for regis- senting parts of the Bronx tion (NYSNA), the Laun- – everything from accoun- tered nurses. and Westchester. Sepúlveda’s Senate Seat dry, Distribution and Food tants to zookeepers. Henry The Laundry, Distribu- Bravo has also been en- Challenged On Monday, Feb. 15, Rev. Ian Har- Service Joint Board, Work- Garrido is the executive tion and Food Service Joint dorsed by the Northwest ris, faith-based leader and software ers United, SEIU; District director of the union and Board, Workers United, Bronx Democrats, United engineer, announced he was look- Council 37, AFSCME; and said that workers answered SEIU represents members Federation of Teachers, ing to become the next state senator District Council 9 New York the call when New York- in the private and public the New York City Central of the 32nd senatorial district, a seat currently held by State Sen. Luis Sep- IUPAT, Painters and Allied ers needed them most and sector in New York, New Labor Council, Assembly úlveda, who, last month, was arrested Trades. now elected officials must Jersey, and Connecticut. Member Nathalia Fernán- on charges of allegedly attempting The Retail, Wholesale answer theirs. “Ischia un- The union represents more dez, who represents the 80th to choke his estranged wife. Sep- and Department Store Union derstands that, and is com- than 8,500 members across Assembly District and who úlveda was subsequently stripped of his chairmanship duties at the State (RWDSU) represents 100,000 mitted to putting working the region. is currently running for senate, with many elected officials members throughout the people first,” he said. District Council 9 of Bronx borough president, as calling on him to resign. Sepúlveda United States, and is affili- The New York State the International Union of well as by Assembly Member alleges it was his wife who assaulted ated with the United Food Nurses Association (NY- Painters and Allied Trades Catalina Cruz, City Council him and is due back in court on Feb. 24. and Commercial Workers SNA) is a union of 42,000 (IUPAT) is an organization Member Diana Ayala, civil Harris is a community activ- Union (UFCW). The union frontline nurses who advo- of painters, decorators, wall rights leaders Tamika Mal- ist. His team said he has worked to played a pivotal role in the cate for their practice, safe coverers, drywall finishers, improve the quality of life for lo- (continued on page 19) cal families by using technology to make resources more accessible to the community. His campaign said deliver essential testing and the fund’s website at https:// customers as the city grad- the event starts. he has hosted numerous food give- screening focused on improv- www.hefnyc.org/ or they can ually reopens, while also aways, voter registration drives, and ing the health of the commu- call (212) 749-0900 for further maintaining a concerted ef- Correction Officers on is currently working to get mobile nity. information. Applicants can fort to deep clean and disin- Triple Shifts COVID-19 testing sites placed in the also apply to the other CDFIs fect the subway system. Councilman Fernando Bronx. Wells Fargo Provides who are accepting applica- Cabrera issued a statement $5 million to Help Small tions from small businesses Frisch Field on Monday, Feb. 15, demand- New Empire BlueCross Businesses across the city by accessing Public Meeting ing an end to what he called BlueShield and Montefiore Wells Fargo announced on their websites. These are: A public, virtual meet- the abusive policy of requir- Agreement Friday, Feb. 12, that selected https://accompanycapital. ing will be held on Wednes- ing the City’s Correction Of- Empire BlueCross BlueShield New York-based community org/, https://pursuitlending. day, Feb. 17, at 6 p.m. to gain ficers to work double and tri- and Montefiore Health System an- development financial insti- com/, https://ndconline.org/, input from the community ple shifts, saying the practice nounced a new agreement on Feb. tutions (CDFIs) have received https://renaissance-ny.org/. about the proposed use of not only endangered officers 9 on improving access to quality a combined $5 million from Some are targeting women- funding previously secured but inmates as well. Cabrera healthcare for people throughout the bank’s “Open for Busi- owned, Asian-owned, and mi- by former Councilman An- said Correction Officers are New York City, Westchester and the ness Fund” (OFB) to help nority-owned businesses, in drew Cohen for the renova- often forced to sleep in their Hudson Valley. According to sources, local small businesses im- particular. tion of Frisch Field, located cars, rather than risk driv- this latest multi-year agreement will pacted by the economic strug- on Webster Avenue and Mo- ing home after completing continue the longstanding relation- gles caused by COVID-19. One MTA Service Update sholu Parkway. All are wel- required marathon double ship between the two organizations, of the CFDIs, Harlem Entre- Beginning on Monday, come to join. Register at: or triple shifts. He said this and features several new community preneurial Fund, will use the Feb. 22, the overnight sub- https://www.nycgovparks. fact alone should be of great outreach initiatives including health grant to help minority-owned, way closure will be short- org/reg/community-input- concern to all New Yorkers, events, a partnership to support nu- small businesses in Harlem, ened from 2 a.m. to 4 a.m., meetings/10483/. The meet- and the city should immedi- trition services for at-risk popula- Washington Heights, Inwood, nightly. MTA officials said ing information will be ately hire a sufficient num- tions, and a mobile health unit to and The Bronx. this will allow the agency to provided to the registered ber of officers to end the Applicants can access enhance travel services for applicants one hour before policy. 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The Finest Latin & Italian Cusine #ATERING &OR !LL /CCATIONS s 3ALON 0AR %VENTOS %SPECIALES Photo by Toby Norwood The FDNY uses two tower ladders to battle a three-alarm blaze in Woodlawn on Monday, Feb. 15, 2021. One Firefighter Injured, Residents Bronx Yonkers New Rochelle Caridad & Louie’s Caridad & Louie’s Caridad & Louie’s Displaced in Woodlawn Blaze Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant 1660 E. Gun Hill Rd. 187 S. Broadway, 241 North Ave. by DAVID GREENE on Tuesday, Feb. 16, told the Norwood Bronx, NY. 10469 Yonkers, NY 10701 New Rochelle, NY, 10801 A three-alarm fire in the Wood- News, “Oh yeah. Well, our office was Phone: 718-862-3939 Phone: 914-375-9777 Phone: 914-336-27763 lawn section of the Bronx has injured damaged, but I can’t really tell you too one firefighter and destroyed two busi- much because we don’t know much. $ELIVERY !VAILABLE s &REE 0ARKING nesses according to the FDNY. Mean- There was a fire in our office, and ev- while, one of the business owners told erything was ruined.” the Norwood News that four families Asked if her company would re- living in four separate apartments, build, the woman responded, “I’m sure above the damaged businesses have we will eventually, when they find out been displaced. what’s going on with this building. Ev- According to the FDNY, the fire erything is wet and walls are pulled was reported at 8.34 a.m. on Monday, down and everything.” February 15, inside the basement of The Norwood News asked about the the Katonah Family Deli and Grocery, status of the four families living in the located at 4293 Katonah Avenue. three-story building who lived over the A fire department official said the businesses. The woman said, “They fire extended to the first floor of the were all evacuated. Thank God nobody apartment building, and that 138 fire- was hurt. That was the main thing.” In fighters from 33 units responded to the response to a question about whether incident. Members of the Yonkers Fire the families were still there or if they Department were seen in photos assist- had been permanently evacuated, the ing with the blaze. woman said they were not there, as no- The fire was brought under con- body was allowed back into the build- trol at 11.03 a.m. on the same day, with ing. EMS reporting that one firefighter was The Norwood News reached out to injured and transported to Montefiore The Red Cross of Greater New York to Medical Center. Paramedics reported see if they had any information on the treating one civilian at the scene, but status of the families. A statement re- the victim was not transported to hos- ceived from Mike de Vulpillières read, pital. “Up until now, no one needed / re- The Norwood News attempted to quested our services. We remain avail- reach the Katonah Family Deli and able to help if anyone needs it.” Grocery for comment, but their tele- The Norwood News also made in- phone number was no longer working. quiries with the Emerald Pharmacy, A second business, Precise Con- located next door to the Katonah Fam- struction, located at 287 East 236th ily Deli, and we were informed that it Street was also heavily damaged. An suffered no damage as a result of the unidentified female employee who fire, and was open for business the fol- answered the phone at the business lowing day. February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 9
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CONTACT US FOR PRE-ARRANGEMENTS (718) 920-0500 [email protected] 4199 Webster Ave., Bronx, NY 10470 www.woodlawn.org 10 • February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News CRIME FILE By SÍLE MOLONEY
Man Sought for Robbery on foot to parts unknown. No inju- 49th and 43rd precincts. refused medical attention at the Pattern Inquiry ries were reported. The property On Saturday, Feb. 6, at around scene. The investigation is ongo- The NYPD is seeking the pub- removed had an estimated value 11.19 p.m., in front of 1717 Fill- ing by the NYPD Collision Investi- lic’s assistance identifying the of $150. The suspect is described more Street in the Van Nest sec- gation Squad. man seen in the attached photo as male, 25-35 years of age. tion of the Bronx, the suspect (right), who is sought in connec- approached a 19-year-old woman Man Shot Dead in tion with robberies that occurred from behind, displayed a knife Pelham Bay in the 52nd and in the 50th pre- and demanded her property. The On Feb. 6, at around 7.08 p.m., cincts. The photo is taken from victim complied and handed over police responded to a call re- inside one of the incident loca- her Apple ear pods. The suspect garding a man who was shot at tions, during the robbery. fled the scene on foot southbound One Dead in MTA Westchester Avenue and Bruckner On Thursday, Jan. 14, at 1 on Fillmore Street. Bus Collision Boulevard, in the 45th precinct. p.m., inside 2501 Grand Con- On the same night at around On Saturday, Feb. 13, at 11.13 Upon arrival, officers discovered course (Marshalls) in Fordham 11.30 p.m., in front of 1541 p.m., police responded to a 911 a man with multiple gunshot Manor, the man entered the loca- Rosedale Avenue, the suspect ap- call following a vehicle collision wounds to the upper body. EMS re- tion, placed store merchandise in proached a 19-year-old man from in the Baychester section of the sponded to the location and trans- a bag and attempted to leave with- behind, displayed a knife and Bronx, in the 45th precinct. A ported the victim to Jacobi Hospi- out paying. When approached NYPD Officer from 52 Pct took his cell phone. The victim’s preliminary investigation de- tal, where he was later pronounced by a 48-year-old male security Assaults Child debit card was inside the cell termined that a Nissan Maxima dead. There are no arrests, and the guard, the man displayed a knife, On Thursday, Feb. 11, at 5 phone case. Pursuant to an on- with two occupants was trav- investigation is ongoing. The vic- threatened the employee, and p.m., an off-duty New York City going investigation, on Feb. 7, at eling on Bartow Avenue when tim was later identified as Dane fled on foot to parts unknown. No employee was arrested and around 00.30 a.m., it was deduced it hit the rear of an MTA bus Salmon, 22, of nearby Hutchinson injuries were reported. The prop- charged in the 52nd precinct. that the suspect had used the vic- parked at a bus stop in front of River Parkway. erty removed had an estimated Freddy Difo, 29, an NYPD police tim’s debit card to make unau- 2085 Bartow Avenue. EMS also Anyone with information with value of $280. officer was charged with assault thorized purchases at 4702 White responded to the incident and regard to these incidents is asked On Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021 at 5 and acting in a manner injurious Plains Road (Zoom Zoom Deli). transported both the driver, a to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers p.m., inside 50 West 225th Street, to a child. The suspect is described as 20-year-old male, and another Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) (Marshalls) in Marble Hill, the male, around 18 years of age, adult male passenger of the car or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA suspect entered the location, Van Nest Robbery Pattern Black, has a slim build and to Jacobi Medical Center, where (74782). The public can also sub- once again placed store merchan- The NYPD is seeking the pub- was last seen wearing a light the driver was listed in critical mit their tips by logging onto the dise in a bag, and attempted to lic’s assistance locating and iden- blue backpack with a picture of condition and the passenger was CrimeStoppers website at WWW. leave without paying. When the tifying the individual seen in the Spongebob Squarepants on it, a pronounced deceased. NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM, or security guard approached him, attached photograph (right), who black hooded coat, blue sweat- Three individuals on board on Twitter @ NYPDTips. he, once again, displayed a knife, is wanted in connection to two pants and multi-colored sneak- the bus sustained minor injuries, All calls are strictly confi- threatened the employee, and fled robberies that occurred in the ers. the driver and two passengers. All dential.
On March 16, 2020, the Nor- wood News spoke with the man- Indoor Dining Slowly ager of another local business in the area, Madden’s Bedford Returns in Bedford Park Pub. At the time, the manager had planned and was looking By DAVID GREENE wood News, “Yes, we are excited forward to a big St. Patrick’s Following the return of about it.” She said that business Day bash the following eve- indoor dining at 25 percent of was not like they expected it to ning. However, following the is- normal restaurant capacity, on be, however. “It’s a whole pro- suance of the governor’s PAUSE Friday, Feb. 12, at least one Bed- cess,” she said. order, the bar closed that same ford Park restaurant owner is According to the manager, night, and didn’t open again hopeful that it’s a sign of things people don’t yet feel 100 percent until the latter part of 2020, at slowly, and hopefully, return- comfortable returning to dine Photo by David Greene which point the manager had ing to normal. in public. “Even if we do the A GROUP OF young women enjoy a Valentine’s morning breakfast decided to build an outdoor M a r i a Tor r e s i s t he m a n a ger cleaning, and everything, and at the National Restaurant and Coffee Shop on East Bedford Park seating section. of Bedford Café and Restaurant, follow all the procedures, the Boulevard on Sunday, February 14, 2021. He did so. However, it located at 1 Bedford Park Boule- seniors have no plans for com- quickly got too cold for anyone vard which, until last Friday, ing back,” she said. any customers since the pan- cause it was St. Valentine’s to eat, drink or even just sit had been closed since Gov. An- “We are hopeful,” Torres demic first hit, and did not Day, every other table at the outside. By that stage, the man drew Cuomo issued the execu- continued. “Now, with the vac- reopen even when indoor din- restaurant was occupied when said he was fearful his business tive “PAUSE” order on March cine and all that, things are ing returned for a brief dura- the Norwood News visited the would have to close its doors 16, 2020. The order restricted going to start getting, little by tion last year. Referring to her restaurant on Sunday, Feb. 14. outright. all, on-premises consumption little, back to normal, and peo- regulars, she said, “Even now Meanwhile, on Sunday The Norwood News called of food and beverages at eating ple are going to, again, get used that we’ve opened indoors, morning, at the National Res- the bar, once again, on Tuesday, and drinking establishments, to being back and feeling com- they haven’t come back in.” She taurant and Coffee Shop on Feb. 16, to find out how business statewide. fortable, and see that we are added, “They don’t feel comfort- East Bedford Park Boulevard, was now doing since the return Eleven months later, on doing all the cleaning, and all able to come out of their apart- a group of happy, young women of indoor dining. A man who Tuesday, Feb. 16, Torres was the measures to keep everyone ments. We serve a lot of elderly were seen enjoying a Valen- answered the phone said, “It’s asked how business was now healthy. So, one day things are people, so they are more care- tine’s morning breakfast. Even doing. I’m a little occupied right going at Bedford Café since the going to go back to more inter- ful, and I understand that. So, though it was morning time, the now.” He added, “I’m always op- latest phase of indoor dining action, like it used to be.” most get it delivered.” restaurant had a decent scatter- timistic for the future. You can’t recommenced. She told the Nor- Torres said she hasn’t seen Nonetheless, perhaps be- ing of customers also. be negative.” February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 11
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(718) 841-0059 GCCTransportation.org 12 • February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News ties and other spaces to address wealth he decides to be the commissioner. I’m Elections 2021: Kevin Pazmino on imbalance across District 11, cutting against jumping to conclusions, and ev- out what he sees as traditional, bottom- ery situation is a particular situation, Community, the Economy & Policing down, government intervention and bu- so if an investigation finds wrongdoing, reaucracy. then there needs to be firm and strict By SÍLE MOLONEY profits, saying he believes there is a “I don’t really believe in this one sys- punishment.” Freelance filmmaker, business lot of mismanagement that takes place tem for the general population living on He added, “But, in terms of just auto- owner, and father, Kevin Pazmino, de- within them. When asked if he could a welfare system, and then one system matically demonizing the police depart- scribes himself as someone who has share the name of a nonprofit that is be- for the 1 percent to live a completely dif- ment before investigating, that’s where worked hard, evolved, and taken some ing mismanaged, he said, “I can’t point ferent lifestyle,” he said. I just feel like you need to support the chances to get to where he’s at right to one non for profit directly. I wouldn’t “I’m basically trying to empower police department.” Pazmino brought now, in life. He acknowledges having know. I don’t have access to their bud- people to go towards incorporating up talks of legislation which may cur- availed of government programs which gets, and access to see the scale of themselves, becoming their own busi- tail the power of the commissioner and have facilitated his career progression, what they’re doing with the funds that ness, becoming entrepreneurs, so put the City Council in charge of disci- yet he is opposed to big government. A they’re receiving, how much the funds that opens them up to the subsidies as plining officers. supporter of former President Donald are actually just donations.” well.” “I get a little nervous about that,” Trump, he is the latest candidate to join He said some nonprofits do great Having started his own business he said, adding that there needs to be the District 11 City Council race to fill work. “I would want to keep those busi- two years ago, Pazmino wants to help control within the police department the seat vacated on Dec. 31 by former nesses. I want to basically work with others realize their potential. “We can as a whole, or no one will listen. “If the City Councilman, Andrew Cohen, and those people as well, in order to see understand getting too caught up in the officers as a whole feel that their boss his platform is based around commu- where they need more help in terms of grind of life to be able to have time to really isn’t their boss, it’s just a figure- nity-based solutions, and community logistics, and help streamline those is- put towards community activism be- head, you lose control and the ability to integration. sues that they’re facing,” he said. cause I haven’t had that time either,” actually plan a proper department,” he “The thing is, my campaign is a The Norwood News mentioned that he said. said. very, very small campaign,” he said. 501 nonprofits have to file regular re- “So, I would love to try to encour- Pazmino said having talked to re- “It’s pretty much just me running it, ports to the authorities to demonstrate age people to do it, and whether it’s in- tired police officers in confidence, he and I’m not taking any cash donations how they use and spend their funding centivizing, and doing tax mitigation, feels a lot of times cops may just stay in because I’m just really against money and asked if this provides some level of or a straight-up payment for time vol- their cars, going forward, especially at in politics. I’m a little different from the comfort regarding the mismanagement unteered, the key is getting people in- a certain time of the night, and ignore other candidates, [who] I believe, are all concerns. Pazmino concurred but sug- volved, and me knowing what each con- situations they would previously have registered Democrats. I actually am a gested there were also alternative ways stituent in every area needs.” addressed because now, they don’t want registered conservative. Ideologically and means to report on finances. If elected, Pazmino sees his role as to put themselves in a scenario where speaking, I lean more right, so I believe “I want people to be able to utilize a a community liaison, expanding on the their lives are at risk, if something goes in fiscal responsibility.” lot of the same things that the 1 percent role of the community boards, and con- wrong or something unexpected hap- In this sense, Pazmino advocates utilizes,” he said, explaining that while necting people with resources in a type pens. for empowering people through lower many large corporates donate to phil- of self-sufficient neighborhood. He uses “It’s a very difficult job,” he said. taxes and said he doesn’t believe “put- anthropic causes, they do so as a way to the example of business owners making “They’re more worried about what ting more people dependent on the sys- write it off against their taxes. their premises available during closed could happen to them if the situation tem is the answer.” Nonetheless, refer- Pazmino favors a similar model for hours to community groups to give goes awry.” He added, “You have to re- ring to his own career path into the smaller businesses, saying communi- classes, for example, so that the commu- act to the best of your ability but if some- film business, he said, “I’m the sole pro- ties know their districts’ needs best. nity as a whole benefits. He said he also one pulls a gun, at that point, you have vider for our family of six. I have four Taking the example of food insecu- wants to make sure that all the seats are to defend yourself.” Acknowledging that children. I came up in an industry that rity, he said he believes only a small per- filled at community board level, and police work is dangerous, we ask if that isn’t very easy to break into, so in the centage of “tax subsidies” [received by that every block is represented. is not what police officers signed up for. beginnings of my career, we definitely nonprofits] go towards feeding the hun- On the subject of law enforcement He said the officers he talked to would lived paycheck to paycheck.” gry, and suggests the larger percentage and crime, Pazmino is opposed to de- be the first to agree. “But it’s when you He added, “We definitely knew goes towards management salaries. funding the police. “I believe that we don’t feel supported by the mayor, or for- how to utilize social services and food Referring to such tax subsidies, he need to make sure that our police, fire get the mayor, if you don’t feel supported stamps to get to the place where I am favored instead allocating, for example, and EMFs are all funded properly, and by your own superiors, or if you feel like now so, I completely understand the $100,000 among ten community restau- support those agencies because in cases your superiors aren’t the ones who are need for that. I grew up in low-income rants and delis so they could lower their of emergency, those are your first re- going to be doing the disciplinary ac- housing so, I understand the need for prices for the people in the community. sponders,” he said. tion, then that even allows them to kind a lot of these social programs that we Pazmino added that such businesses When asked about the topic of police of detach from whatever [the] superior have, but I also have gone through could then also provide food for the brutality and the mass demonstrations tells [them] to do,” he said. it, coming on the other side of it, and homeless in the area. “They know who seen throughout the world last year, he He said he fears if all disciplinary ac- learning a trade.” our homeless community are. I’d rather said, “Obviously, I’m against some of tion falls to the City Council, it will lead Pazmino said he understands what it give them those subsidies and then just those bad apples, but I don’t believe that to a situation where the superiors won’t means to be empowered, knowing your work out free meals for the homeless we should punish the whole institution be able to run a proper department, and worth, and having a skill set that can be and for lower income families.” as a whole because of a few bad apples.” drive a rift between police manage- transferable. “Being a gig worker, after The Norwood News mentioned that In the context of the most recent ment, and the officers in the field. “I feel you get through it and establish your- the primary aim of every business is, Civilian Complaints Review Board like it’s going to cause more disorgani- self, it’s very empowering. I think a lot nonetheless, to make a profit, and to (CCRB) public hearing on the NYPD’s zation,” he said. of people out there do have those skill rely on businesses to ensure the home- new disciplinary matrix, and the topic If elected, Pazmino said he’s looking sets, who already are community lead- less are fed may not be a very pro-active of accountability at the top levels of the to take a hands-on approach to the ers, but just don’t realize it yet.” approach to the issue and may be more NYPD, we asked Pazmino if he could see role. “I’m looking to be in people’s Indeed, he reveres those with an reliant on luck, chance and goodwill. why there is justifiable criticism of the neighborhoods. I’m not going to be entrepreneurial spirit, citing one ex- “That’s just kind of a broad perspec- agency’s leadership for not taking the the type of councilman who is only ample of a local woman he knows who, tive,” Pazmino said of his proposals. disciplining of such “bad apples” seri- out there during election season.” seemingly, recently saw an opportu- “Obviously, once elected, I would have ously enough in the past. he said. “It seems to me as if we’re nity to start a childcare business out to really scrutinize what monies are “I’m a manager myself in terms of going in a certain direction. There of her home. Pazmino did not elaborate in the budget, and then figure out the what my vocation is, and anytime some- are people, like myself, who don’t be- on whether the woman was registered, proper way of distribution, figure out thing happens on my watch, I take full lieve in full blown socialism, and I qualified or had been vetted to take how we’re currently dealing with these responsibility, even if it’s not some- know that the left will disagree with care of children. issues, and the ones that are working.” thing that I directly did,” he said. “I me in terms of saying, ‘We’re not re- On the other hand, he is skeptical of He also advocates for pooling exist- feel the current mayor, it starts with ally trying to do that,’ but it’s slow large corporate entities and large non- ing resources like educational facili- him and the people that he elected, who and steady.” February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 13 City Proposes New Computer Center at Old Fordham Library By DAWN CLANCY News asked DCAS if the approval The City’s department of admin- had been obtained, and we were in- istrative services (DCAS) has pro- formed that such approvals would be posed to Bronx Community Board 7 received prior to construction. (CB7) to convert the second floor of When asked by committee mem- the currently vacant Old Fordham ber, Sandra Erickson, why the proj- Library, located at 2556 Bainbridge ect wouldn’t start until 2024, Car- Avenue in Fordham Manor, into a mine Rivetti, chief of staff for DCAS, new computer-based testing and ap- explained, “We have to go through plication center (CTAC), to facilitate the whole ULURP, Uniform Land more opportunities for a wider num- Use Procedure process, and that will ber of local candidates to apply for take 12 to 18 months. From there, City jobs. you have to go through the design At the latest Bronx CB7 housing process, and the construction docu- and land use committee meeting, ments. We’re talking about the full on Feb. 9, the agency proposed relo- scope of work from start to finish.” cating the Bronx’s current CTAC, The ULURP process is due to com- located at 1932 Arthur Avenue in mence in either early spring of 2021 Crotona, to the Fordham Library lo- or late winter. cation, and judging from the discus- According to DCAS, the first floor sion that ensued, the committee ap- and mezzanine level of the library peared to broadly support the project is slated to provide services that Photo by Miriam Quiñones outline, at this stage. will benefit the Bronx community, The second floor of the Old Fordham Library building, located at 2556 Bain- In all five boroughs, CTACs are although, currently, there are no bridge Avenue in Fordham Manor, is slated to be converted into a Computer-Based community-based centers used for plans or proposals as to what these Testing and Application Center (CTAC) for city jobs. the purpose of taking civil service services will entail. exams. “Our centers are the start In this context, committee mem- of the Northwest Bronx Community Other suggestions from the com- of the pathway to employment with ber, Barbara Stronczer, asked, “Who and Clergy Coalition, and New Life munity for the first-floor space in- the City,” said Barbara Dannenberg, will decide what goes in there, and International Church, led by pastor clude a job training center. Com- DCAS’s deputy commissioner for hu- will you listen to community input and current 14th District Council- mittee member, Edgar Ramos, said, man capital, during the committee as to what goes there?” She added, man Fernando Cabrera - staged mul- “Since you can take civil service meeting. “It’s a place where folks “We’ve been talking about the site tiple rallies urging the City to turn tests on the second floor, that might come in and chat with our knowl- for many years. We always spoke the building, which is in District 15, be a good co-use for the building.” edgeable staff and learn what jobs about some type of a youth center. over for community use. Regarding the project’s next the City has to offer.” She added, “I I’m wondering who’s going to make Bronx Borough President Ruben steps, Nick Benson, DCAS direc- think we have every job in the City the final decision?” Diaz, Jr. told the NY Daily News, in tor of communications, emailed of New York except for astronaut.” The Norwood News previously re- 2009, he wanted to see some kind of the Norwood News, writing, “The Moving the Arthur Avenue CTAC ported that in July 2013, the City re- science and technology center or a ULURP process will include several to the Fordham Library location is leased a request for redevelopment recreational hub at the former li- public hearings, including one with expected to double the annual num- proposals for the library. Its closure brary. the CB7. Once we have ULURP ap- ber of applicants served by the cen- at the time coincided with the open- Meanwhile, then-Bronx Council- proval, we would start the design ter in the Bronx. The Arthur Avenue ing of the Bronx Library Center, two man Joel Rivera, representing the work.” location, which comprises 5,100 sq. ft blocks away, and local advocates had 15th District, and son of Assembly- No formal request for approval of surface area, currently accommo- called for the building to be turned man José Rivera, said at the time, or non-objection to the project was dates 40 workstations, facilitating into some kind of community center a private-public partnership might asked of the committee by DCAS, 1,900 test-takers per month. to cater to youth and seniors, some- have been an option, but added that and the presentation was really The 10,000 sq. ft, second-floor thing the immediate area lacked. the City would best be served in the more of a heads up of what is being Fordham Library space would dou- The prevailing request for pro- long-term by using the old library planned. As the agency advances ble the capacity of workstations posal (RFP) called for developers to for developing young people and with the ULURP process, it plans to to 80, increasing the number of reactivate the site through potential, providing programming to keep engage with all affected stakehold- monthly available test slots to 3,800. “neighborhood-serving purposes.” them off the streets. ers which includes, we understand, “The new center is a wonderful loca- The RFP also called for the project to “In a private development, you coming back to CB7 for a nod of ap- tion for folks to come and visit for the be “financially feasible” and to have might get 50 jobs out of it in the short proval, at a later stage, regarding purpose of taking civil service ex- a “reliable revenue stream.” term,” he said at the time. “But in the project’s progression. aminations,” said Dannenberg. “It’s In 2008, the City turned the old the long term, with a community Other items discussed at the near the B, D and 4 trains, the Metro library over to the City’s health de- center, you can develop a whole gen- meeting included an update on North and many bus routes.” partment, which was mandated to eration of young people.” the New York Botanical Garden’s If approved, construction on the turn it into a full-service animal At the CB7 meeting, Rivetti said (NYBG) plan for two new housing building, which has sat mostly va- shelter. That mandate was dropped DCAS was open to suggestions developments at East Bedford Park cant since it was shut down in 2005, in 2011 by the City Council, and the from the community regarding the Boulevard and Webster Avenue, part could begin at the new center in 2024 agency had been using the facility building’s usage. “We’ve engaged of a 2011 re-zoning plan to revitalize and would be completed by 2026. It for administrative and storage pur- with the borough president’s office, 88 blocks of Webster Avenue. As re- was noted that the two-story, 24,000 poses, according to the RFP. and there’s a council race coming ported by Norwood News, residents sq. ft. Fordham Library would re- The Norwood News asked NCAS up [District 15 special election on are concerned about the project’s quire building-wide electrical, heat- to clarify when the management of March 23]. So, we look forward to overall impact on local amenities ing, ventilation and air conditioning the building had been moved from having that discussion with the new like schools and parking. NYBG is (HVAC) upgrades. the health department to NCAS, and council member as well,” he said. slated to present its plans to the CB7 Because the building, which was we were informed this happened in “If there’s a community center community at next month’s hous- built in 1923, was designated eligible December 2013. that people want to explore, we’re ing meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, under the National Register of His- Before the health department open to all possibilities. We’ll have Mar. 9, at 6:30 pm. toric Places, any changes to it would took over the running of the build- this discussion with all the stake- *Síle Moloney contributed to this have to be approved by the State’s his- ing, two different groups - Sistas holders as we go through the ULURP story. torical preservation office. Norwood and Brothas United, the youth arm process.” 14 • February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News Up is their annual community event/black-history-month-at- networking conference for home/. park and environmental stakeholders. This event Movement provides an opportunity to learn about government and non- Every Monday night, the Bronx government resources, and Nomads host an hour long run to participate in face-to-face / walk for anyone interested in Compiled by RACHEL DALLOO & SÍLE MOLONEY discussions with city and local joining the group. The event elected and appointed officials. starts at Williamsbridge Oval Events that reconnect communities to Share the love for Bronx River Recreation Center at 6 p.m. the land across the Bronx. To parks! For more information, More information can be found Do you think you’d be a great register and learn more, visit: visit www.BronxSpeakUp.org. on the group’s Instagram here: impostor or crewmate? Will http://www.bronxriver.org/ https://www.instagram.com/ you succeed in accomplishing calendar. Art bronxnomads/?hl=en. your tasks, or will your plan be thwarted by the impostor? Do you want to learn more Throughout the month of Join NYC Parks on Feb. 20, Join the Van Cortlandt Library about your rights? Then join February, New York Botanical from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at on Feb. 19, at 3 p.m. for their the New York Immigration Garden (NYBG) will honoring Van Cortlandt Park for the Van online game of Among Us! To Coalition (NYIC) on Feb. 23 at Black Contributions to Art, Cortlandt Park and Woodlawn register for Game On! Among 12 p.m., as they partner with Culture, and Science by Cemetery Winter Tree ID event Us, visit: https://www.nypl.org/ the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant showcasing cultural traditions and explore the interesting tree locations/van-cortlandt. Affairs to host two Know Your of the African diaspora and species in the winter season Rights workshops. NYIC will exploring the influential in two of the Bronx’s premiere Do you want to help the discuss immigration policy, contributions of Black people green spaces: Van Cortlandt many communities across the city resources, and COVID19 to botany, horticulture, Park and Woodlawn Cemetery. Bronx? Then join the upcoming resources. To learn more, visit ecology, and our collective NYC Parks asks participants Foodway Team meeting https://www.facebook.com/ understanding of the natural to stay home if sick, maintain on Feb. 18, at 3:30 p.m. as events/1166626470420773. world. Discover captivating six feet of physical distance leaders at the Youth Ministries dance, creative and inspirational between households, wear of Peace and Justice lead a Mark your calendar for the children’s programs, important a face covering, keep hands discussion around how the 27th Bronx Parks Speak Up historical narratives, and washed and carry hand Foodway can serve as a model event on Feb. 27, at 10 a.m. fascinating plant stories. Learn sanitizer. For more information, to create community policies Join the Bronx Parks Speak more at: https://www.nybg.org/ please call (718) 548-7070.
NOW ENROLLING! Grades K-2 & 6
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Email [email protected] or VISIT www.wearedream.org/enroll February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 15 16 • February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News ,ETTERS 4O 4HE %DITOR
Erosion of Women’s Rights to talk about respect, especially when it I invite my fellow Norwoodites to bor- comes to women. row the book, “Prey: Immigration, Islam I always go out of my way to say hello and the Erosion of Women’s Rights” by to my Muslim neighbors, and to encour- Ayaan Hirsi Ali from the library. The age discussion about their treatment eye-opening story of the flood of refugees of women. They are willing to listen, I Health Check: Your Healthy Heart from Syria and Iraq shows that 80 per- found, but I am told I am the first to bring By SAKINAH LONG with your doctor about how much, and cent are males under the age of 35. These this subject up. Can we have our Church When we think about February, most what types of physical activities are safe refugees are coming into countries such and Rabbi leaders initiate such discus- of us think about Valentine’s Day hearts. for you. Every little bit of physical activ- as Germany in Europe, and are bringing sions as well, in partnership with our But February is also American Heart ity counts, including things like house- with them, customs of polygamy, patriar- elected and police officials? By reading Month - a good time to give your own work or gardening. chy and the view of women as commodi- this book, it will help to create awareness heart a check-up. Heart disease is the ties. of this topic, since Norwood is experienc- number one cause of death in the United Lowering Stress The author notes that they see no ing a high rate of new residents. As a very States, according to the Centers for Dis- Research from the NHLBI has sug- need to change their views even when masculine man, I am proud to call my- ease Control and Prevention (CDC). gested that upsetting events can trigger living in Western Europe. As such, there self a feminist who believes no woman is The good news, though, is that you a heart attack in some people. Too much are areas in Europe where women are a commodity, but rather an equal to any can do many things to help prevent heart stress may increase blood pressure, rais- told not to frequent to avoid the risk of male, and no woman living in Norwood disease. First, it’s important to under- ing the risk of heart disease. Everyone sexual assault. Sadly, the courts and po- should be treated as a 2nd class citizen stand your chances of having or getting experiences stress, so it is important lice maintain a culture of political cor- based on the customs of where she came it. Second, you can learn what changes to be aware of when and how it affects rectness, and probable guilt over their from. Let’s talk more about this! may help reduce your odds of getting you. Talking to a professional counselor, role in WWII, and treat these refugees Richard Marias heart disease. meditating, exercising, and talking to with kid gloves when they are caught as- Norwood According to the National Heart, friends and family can help lower your saulting women. No one gets extradited Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), your stress levels. back to where they came from, since they Subway Fare Evasion & Crime chance of heart disease is higher with can claim asylum. How should we deal with fare eva- one or more of the following: Smoking I relate this book and its story because sion, vandalism and crime on NYC Tran- Smoking greatly increases your I am observing a mistaken political cli- sit subway and buses? Perhaps it is time • high blood pressure chance of heart disease and heart at- mate right now where there are calls to to return to the good old days when a • high cholesterol tacks. If you or anyone you live with defund the police and release criminals transit police officer was assigned to ride • obesity smokes, you and they should quit. If you from prison. Only a fool would say our and patrol most stations and trains. This, • smoking have trouble quitting smoking on your subways are safe as well as our streets. along with installation of security cam- • stress own, speak to your doctor about joining Citizens in NYC became complacent eras on trains, and at stations, might • unhealthy eating habits a support group. Many hospitals, work- with the lowering of crime rates. Well, serve as a deterrent against crime, fare • diabetes or prediabetes places, and community groups offer get off your couch; crime is rising and is evasion and vandalism. There, also, may • family history of heart disease classes too. doing so rapidly. Just this past weekend, be the need to increase fines and penal- Keeping your heart beating strong our police stopped a parked bus in Brook- ties as a deterrent for those who don’t pay While you can’t change your family and healthy is important all year. So, lyn loaded with teens -primarily males - their fare, commit crime or vandalism. history, many of these risk factors can take a little time during American Heart and eight guns were seized, and 14 people Larry Penner be reduced by some simple adjustments. Month to learn how to take care of your were arrested. Every morning the local Great Neck heart; a few simple changes can make a TV news shows reports of a shooting in Heart-Healthy Foods big difference. Join one of our free vir- the Bronx - sadly mostly fatal. Yet no one Editor’s Note: We reserve the right Your diet can make a big difference. tual presentations from the list below by is getting excited. Well, I am angry, and to edit letters for space, clarity, civil- A heart-healthy diet includes plenty of going to https://zoom.us and using the want to encourage all of my neighbors ity, and accuracy. fruits and vegetables and whole grains Meeting ID Number: 96997638075 and like oatmeal and brown rice. Try to add Password: 442845. foods high in healthy fats like omega-3 fats e.g. salmon and sardines. Reduce 2021 Heart Month Presentations Madame P 's Beauty World added sugars, especially in processed • Understanding the COVID-19 Vaccine: foods, and saturated fats like bacon and Monday Feb. 22 at 2 p.m. Specializing in Basic Haircare, Press n Curl, cold cuts. Stick with lean ground beef • Hypertension - Healthy Weight: Tues- Relaxer and Silk Press and skinless chicken or turkey to cut day, Feb. 23 at 2 p.m. down on saturated fats. And choose fat- • Hypertension - Stroke: Be a Hero: s (AIRCUTTING /&& free and low-fat milk, cheese, and yo- Wednesday, Feb. 24 at 11 a.m. s 7AVE .OUVEAU gurt. • What is Hypertension: Thursday, Feb. &/2 3%.)/23 25 at 11 a.m. 4UESDAY 7EDNESDAY 4HURSDAY s #AREFREE #URL Get Moving • Hypertension - Mission to Nutrition: s (AIR #OLORING /&& Regular physical activity can help Friday, Feb. 26 at 11 a.m. s !FROS 7ELCOME #/,,%'% 345$%.43 you lose weight, lower your stress, and -UST BRING AD improve your mental health. It can also Sakinah Long is a Social Work Stu- %AST &ORDHAM 2D help lower “bad” cholesterol levels and dent at Montefiore Health System’s Office may lower high blood pressure. Speak of Community & Population Health. "RONX . 9 s February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 17
NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES
Mayor’s Office to partment of Labor. Call (518) 457- 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. ballot will be taken into account. Korean and Russian. Additional Protect Tenants 9000 or go to: https://labor.ny.gov/ Rapid Molecular Testing Avail- This process will continue un- languages are available through New York City’s online Tenant workerprotection/laborstan- able Here. Rapid testing availabil- til there are two candidates left. phone interpretation. Learn more Resource Portal has been created dards/coronavirus-complaints. ity may be limited at this time. The candidate with the most votes by calling 311 and asking for tax to help residential renters access shtm. wins. More information on ranked preparation assistance or by go- free public and private resources Health Insurance choice voting can be found here: ing to nyc.gov/taxprep. to help prevent evictions and stay COVID-19 Vaccine NYC Care is a health care ac- http://www.nyccfb.info/nyc- The deadline to file a 2020 stably housed. Residential renters New York City officials are cess program for people who are votes/ranked-choice-voting-faqs/, tax return is April 15, 2021. NYC can receive legal advice, counsel- aiming to make COVID-19 vaccines not by emailing nycvotes@nyccfb. Free Tax Prep services include ing, and access to other relevant available to most New Yorkers by eligible for or cannot afford info or by calling 212-409-1800. in-person tax preparation, drop- resources based on their specific mid-2021. Currently, some people health insurance. It is now avail- off services, virtual tax prep, and needs by calling 311 and asking for like health care workers, those able in every Returning to Work assisted self-prep to file taxes for the “Tenant Helpline” or by tex- over 65, people at increased risk borough. To learn more, visit During COVID-19 FREE. Filers will need access to ting 311-692. TTY service for peo- of severe illness from COVID-19, https://www.nyccare.nyc/ or call Learn more about important a computer, tablet, or smartphone ple with disabilities is also avail- teachers, school staff, childcare (646) 692-2273. guidelines and resources avail- and a stable internet connection able by dialing 212-504-4115. workers, Department of Correc- NYC Department of Consumer able to workers under Phase 1, 2, for virtual free tax prep services. Learn more at https://www1. tions staff, first responders, pub- and Worker Protection (DCWP) 3 and 4 of the reopening at www. nyc.gov/content/tenantresource- lic transit workers, grocery store Alerts nyc.gov/workers or by calling 311 NYC Financial portal/pages/. workers and those working and Residents can get the latest or (855) 491-2667. Important infor- Empowerment Centers Eviction cases filed before living in group homes and home- DCWP alerts and information on mation for domestic workers and Professional financial coun- March 16, 2020 (pre-COVID) may less shelters can get vaccinated. all COVID-19 resources, including their employers can be found here: selors can help New Yorkers man- proceed, but if you received an Residents are encouraged to in additional languages, at https:// https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/ age their bills and credit amidst eviction notice before March 16, get vaccinated, as doing so helps www1.nyc.gov/site/dca/media/ dca/downloads/pdf/workers/Re- the coronavirus crisis, under- 2020, your landlord must file a mo- protect the community at large. DCWP-Alerts-During-COVID19. turntoWork-Information-for-Do- stand student loan repayment op- tion and get permission from the People with disabilities should page mestic-Workers-and-Employers. tions, and more in a confidential court to evict you. If you receive a take precautions and consult with Alternatively, call 311 and pdf. setting. For the health and safety motion like this, or if you receive a their health care provider first. To asked for “DCWP Alerts.” Resi- of providers and clients, most Fi- warrant of eviction, HRA’s Office find out more information, talk dents can also text 311-692. TTY Funeral Planning nancial Counseling sessions will of Civil Justice can provide free to your health care provider, call service for people with disabilities During COVID-19 be conducted over the phone. Book legal assistance to help you with 311, or text 311-692. TTY service is also available by dialing (212) Important Information for an appointment by calling 311 or your case. For more information, for people with disabilities is also 504-4115. New Yorkers who have lost loved go to: call 311 and ask for the “Tenant available by dialing (212) 504-4115. ones can be found here: https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/ Helpline” for connection with free Residents can also visit: Price Gouging https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/ dca/downloads/pdf/consumers/ legal help. You should call as soon https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/doh/ Effective June 26, 2020, the dca/downloads/pdf/consum- DCA-Template-Cease-Debt-Collec- as possible. downloads/pdf/covid/covid-19- NYC Department of Consumer and ers/Funeral-Planning-During- tion-Communication-Letter-for- vaccinesfaq.pdf. Worker Protection (DCWP) issued COVID-19-English.pdf Consumers.pdf Food Resources a permanent rule that makes price The City has created the Get- COVID-19 Testing gouging illegal for any products or Funeral and Burial Student Loans FoodNYC Emergency Home Food The City is continuing to ex- services essential to health, safety, Guidance and Assistance Has your income or family size delivery program to provide food pand capacity for COVID-19 test- and welfare during a declared state The New York City Human changed? Get important informa- for coronavirus-vulnerable and ing. For more of emergency. Learn more by call- Resources Administration will tion about payments and resources food-insecure New Yorkers not information, call 311 or text ing 311 and saying “Overcharge.” provide financial assistance to in- by calling 311 or go to: https:// currently served through exist- 311-692. TTY service for people dividuals who need assistance to www1.nyc.gov/site/dca/consumers/ ing food delivery programs. Learn with disabilities is also available NYC Human Resources meet qualifying funeral expenses. Student-Loans.page where you can more by calling 311 or going to the by dialing (212) 504-4115. Learn Administration: For more information, call 311 or learn about Income-Driven Repay- following website: more at: https://www1.nyc.gov/ You may be eligible for an visit: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/ ment (IDR) plans that can lower your https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/ site/doh/covid/covid-19-testing. emergency cash grant if it will hra/help/burial-assistance.page. monthly payments. Book an appoint- dsny/contact/services/COVID-19- page. meet ment for free financial counseling at FoodAssistance.shtml. Free testing is available at the certain special needs. For Taxi and Limousine 311 or go to: https://www1.nyc.gov/ following North Bronx locations: more information, call HRA’s info- Commission site/dca/consumers/get-free-finan- Food Bank Events in Feb. line at 718-557-1399 TLC licensees can take advan- cial-counseling.page. Food Bank for New York City NYC Health + or visit: https://a069-access. tage of the Driver Resource Cen- has organized a series of food dis- Hospitals/Jacobi nyc.gov/accesshra/ ter, which provides Debt Collection tribution events throughout the 1400 Pelham Parkway South financial counseling and legal DCWP has created a letter tem- month of February at 3101 Kings- Bronx, New York 10461 NYC Department services and other useful free City plate that you can fill out and mail bridge Terrace in The Bronx. 718-918-5000 of Education resources such as health care in- (required by federal law) so debt col- Residents are required to bring COVID-19 Testing and Antibody The NYC DOE will be offer- surance, mental health resources lectors can’t contact you until the ID and only one food distribution Testing Offered Here ing childcare to eligible families and more. State of Emergency in New York City per household is allowed. Recipi- Flu vaccines available here through their Learning Bridges https://portal.driverresource- has ended. Learn more by calling 311 ents must be present to receive Monday – Friday, program. Learn more by calling center.tlc.nyc.gov/. Are you at risk or go to: distribution and distribution is 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. 311 or go to: of losing your home? NYLAG’s https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/ on a first-come, first-served basis. Saturday – Sunday, https://www.schools.nyc.gov/ Foreclosure Prevention Project dca/downloads/pdf/consumers/ The food distribution time slot is 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. enrollment/enrollment-help/ Attorneys can help you avoid DCA-Template-Cease-Debt-Collec- between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. and the learning-bridges. Foreclosure at no cost. Call 212- tion-Communication-Letter-for-Con- next dates are on Monday, Feb. 22, NYC Health + Hospitals/ 946-0349 or email contactfpp@ny- sumers.pdf Friday, Feb. 26. North Central Bronx NYC Campaign lag.org. 3424 Kossuth Avenue Finance Board COVID-19 Scams and NYS Emergency Bronx, New York 10467 Ranked Choice Voting will be Free Tax Prep Services Safety Tips Paid Sick Leave Appointments: 844-692-4692 used in all Special Elections tak- New Yorkers can now use Important information that de- On March 18, 2020, Gov. An- General Information: ing place after January 1, 2021. NYC’s Free Tax Prep Services to scribes common COVID-19-related drew Cuomo signed emergency 718-918-5700 The first special election with file their tax returns for free and scams and tips can be found by call- legislation guaranteeing job pro- COVID-19 Testing and Ranked Choice Voting in District keep their whole refund. Anyone ing 311 or going to: tection and pay for New York- Antibody Testing 11 and District 15 will be held on who has earned $65,000 or less in https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/ ers who have been quarantined Offered Here March 23. 2020 can file for free, from home, dca/downloads/pdf/consumers/ as a result of the coronavirus or Flu vaccines available here Ranked Choice Voting means with the help of an IRS-certified COVID-19-Scams-and-Safety-Tips- COVID-19. Some employers in Monday – Sunday, a voter can rank up to five can- VITA / TCE volunteer preparer. English.pdf New York State are now required 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. didates in order of preference, Preparers can already help resi- to provide at least five days of job instead of choosing just one. If a dents prepare to file their taxes NYC Commission on protected, paid sick leave to em- Co-op City Retail Space candidate receives more than 50 safely now, and then transmit Human Rights ployees who need to take leave be- 105 Dreiser Loop percent of first-choice votes, they the returns to the IRS when the Harassment and discrimina- cause they are under a mandatory Bronx, NY 10475 are the winner. If no candidate agency opens the tax season on tion based on race, national origin, or precautionary order of quaran- Monday – Sunday, earns more than 50 percent of Friday, Feb. 12. age, and disability, including having tine or isolation due to COVID-19. 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. first-choice votes, then the count- Residents are reminded that COVID-19 or another serious illness, The amount of paid sick leave Rapid Antigen Testing ing will continue in rounds. At any preparer promising a tax re- is illegal. If you have faced harass- an employer is required to pro- Available Here the end of each round, the candi- fund before Feb. 12, may be sell- ment or discrimination in housing, at vide depends on the number of Flu vaccines available here date with the fewest votes will be ing a Refund Anticipation Loan work, or in any public place, contact employees they have and the em- eliminated. (RAL), which may come with fees the Commission by filling out our on- ployer’s net annual income. If your St James Rec Center If a voter ranked the elimi- and high interest rates. Tax Prep line form or by calling 311 and asking employer does not provide the re- 2530 Jerome Avenue nated candidate as their first Services are available in Eng- for “human rights.” Learn more at: quired paid sick leave, you may Bronx, NY 10468 choice, then the voter’s next high- lish, Spanish, Arabic, Bengali, https://www1.nyc.gov/site/ file a complaint with the NYS De- Monday – Sunday, est ranked candidate on their Chinese, French, Haitian Creole, cchr/index.page Report: Quarter of the Bronx Still Food Insecure 18 • February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News Classifi eds Professional Directory
COMPUTER SERVICES Computer Repair Computer Repair Upgrade, troubleshooting, lap-top overheats, cracked screen, broken power jack, virus removal, data recovery. Call James (646) 281-4475, (718) 324-4332. HELP WANTED Love Communications? Experienced working with technology? Riverdale Pres- byterian Church (Bronx) seeks an admin assistant 2 days/wk on site. Knowledge working with social media, YouTube, MS Office, Google products, General of- fice work. Hourly. Send resume to [email protected]. Gibson Honored by Crain’s New York Business By SÍLE MOLONEY Councilwoman Vanessa Gibson, representing the 16th District, has been honored by Crain’s New York Business 2021 as a Notable Black Leader and Ex- ecutive. The list spotlights Black men and women who have affected the city with professional, communal and philanthropic achievements, particularly in matters of diversity and inclusion. Gibson congratulated her fellow honor- ees, said she was blessed to be recognized, and that she stood on the shoulders of the pioneers and trailblazers who started the work before her. Public and Community Meetings
Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the 52nd PRECINCT COMMUNITY COUNCIL meetings have been held via ZOOM. Meetings are usually held on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Call the 52nd Precinct Commu- nity Affairs office at 718-220-5824 for further details.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March, BRONX COMMUNITY BOARD 7 meetings have been held via ZOOM. The next full Board meeting will be held on Tuesday, Feb 23, at 6.30 p.m. Zoom details will be circulated ahead of the meeting. Contact [email protected] to be added to the dis- tribution list.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March, BEDFORD MOSHOLU COM- MUNITY ASSOCIATION meetings have been held via ZOOM. The meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. For further details, contact [email protected]. perfect pose Hair Design We Specialize In )BJSDBSFt)BJSXFBWJOHt3FMBYFS 6Q%PPTt'JOHFSXBWFt$PSO3PXT#SBJET %SFBE5XJTUt%SZ$VSMTt$PMPS Now Operating L.L.C. Open Monday to Sunday 930 AM Last person come at 6PM Mon.to Thurs CLOSE SATURDAY 323 E Gunhill Bronx N.Y 10467 718-515-1683 Instagram: perfectposehair February 18-March 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 19 Bullying Survivor Inspires Kids at P.S. 294
(continued from page 1) Blumenthal serves as a brand ambassa- she said. “The ongoing incident is some- feel the way that she did as a child. She fun of her hair, her weight, her looks, her dor for the last five years, helped launch thing that, as soon as a child says that, or added that because the hats are soft style, and zeroed in on her for just about the Hat Not Hate initiative, while the con- uses the word ‘bullying,’ it has been my and warm, they may also bring an ex- anything, until it all became too much. cept itself was conceived by Blumenthal. mindset to always investigate, have a me- tra level of comfort and warmth to a “All I can recall is the amount of cry- The idea was to get knitters and crotchet- diation with the children, talk about it, bullied child when they put one on. ing I did after repeated episodes,” she ers to knit and crochet blue hats and do- have a mediation with the parents, so that’s “While every kid may not be bul- wrote. “She turned classmates against nate them to the cause. Blue represents something that lives within P.S. 294.” lied, there is bullying happening all the me, and I felt worthless. When she picked awareness and solidarity and is the color For her part, D’Aguanno said that be- time, whether we want to see it or not,” on me, none of the other kids ever stood up to wear in support of bullying preven- cause she is a teacher, she has to help chil- she said. “I always say that there’s al- for me, and I remember feeling so lonely.” tion. To date, more than 32,000 wool hats dren feel safe, feel empowered, feel loved, ways someone in a room that has been A visit with her mother to the school prin- have been collected for this year’s #Hat- and know that if they are bullied, they bullied, witnessed bullying, or been a cipal caused the situation to escalate and NotHate campaign with an extended goal have options, and don’t have to use their bully, and I just hope that with these eventually, Blumenthal ended up leaving of 100,000 for 2021. hands. “Our school is very open, and we do hats, we can bring light to the issue.” the school. While she subsequently made The Norwood News asked Perkins how a lot of communicating. We have wonderful Blumenthal added that there’s no new friends and the painful memories the school got involved with the campaign. staff and psychologists and we really work better feeling than receiving some- faded, the scars remained. She said D’Aguanno has a business where with the kids and meet them one on one, thing that is handmade. “I hope that Twenty years later, in 2018, Blumen- she crochets and knits. “Ms Deguano asked and have play groups and talk groups.” she these kids are going to feel that and thal decided to create the Hat Not Hate me if she can sponsor P.S. 294 to launch said. “So, if there is an instance, we handle hopefully they’ll tell their friends, and campaign, after seeing a then, 9-year-old this program with our kids,” Perkins said. it right away, but I would say our school is their friends will tell their friends, girl who was being bullied but who de- “It’s such an important initiative and I was definitely safe.” ‘How do I get one of those blue hats?’ cided to speak out about it. like, ‘Yes!’” The National Bullying Prevention So, that’s my dream. That’s my wish, On Thursday, Feb. 11, the bubbly, smil- She said the second and fifth graders Center (NBPC) found that bullying can and Elisa heard me, and the Walton ing founder and activist was at P.S. 294, are going to pilot the program. “We figure, result in depression, alcohol abuse and School accepted this concept with open Walton Avenue School, in the Mt Eden our second graders, they have a couple even suicide in some people. Cyberbul- arms.” section of the Bronx to make a donation more years before they graduate, so this lying has also doubled from 2007 to More information about New York of 500 of the organization’s signature, will be a great initiative for them to push 2019. City’s Stomp Out Bullying program blue, knit hats to students. The aim was through the school in the upcoming year, Speaking at the event, Blumenthal can be found here: https://www. to bring awareness to an issue, which ac- and I hope to continue a connection with said she never wants another child to stompoutbullying.org/. cording to the National Bullying Preven- them, and they can really wear their hats tion Center, affects one if five kids across with pride, showing that they are a part of the country. this anti-bullying program.” District 15 City Council Race: Several The school’s principal, Nicole Per- Perkins continued, “The fifth graders, kins, and second grade teacher, Elisa they can wear their hats moving forward D’Aguanno, who was the driver behind into middle school, and they can always Labor Unions Endorse Ischia Bravo the initiative, were outside the building, remember that as they’re going into this (continued from page 10) In terms of campaign contributions located on 1425 Walton Avenue, to accept new phase of schooling, that’s not what we lory and Kirsten John Foy. raised, according to the latest CFB fig- the donation, along with a handful of kids want to do. We want to make sure we treat whose parents had provided authoriza- people with respect and talk to them with In addition, she has received the back- ures filed last month, Sanchez leads tion to be interviewed. respect.” ing of 21 in ’21, a group that advocates for with $56,649, followed by Crespo with Though they were a bit camera-shy Asked about specific state and city poli- at least 21 women to hold elected office at $37,743, Bravo with $36,216, Feliz with cies and guidelines for schools in terms in the end, and didn’t say much, the kids New York City Council by 2021, as well as $32,272, Gopal with $17,805, Altagracia of how to handle bullying, Perkins said, seemed excited by the occasion, happy to Vote Mama, which supports Democratic with $7,182 and Agosto with $1,175. No receive the hats, and also seemed to take “There is a DoE [Department of Education] moms with young children running for information was available for Ferrera, in the message imparted by Blumenthal, program which we call, “Respect for All” Padilla or Rivera-Diaz. who looked each one in the eye, and told for which Ms D’Aguanno is the liaison.” office up and down the ballot and across them they were seen, they were heard and She said they also have additional ini- the country. District 15 includes the neighbor- they were loved. tiatives, where they educate kids about not In addition to Bravo, according to the hoods of Belmont, Crotona Park, Ford- One little girl, who seemed, perhaps, bullying people based on race or other rea- New York City Board of Elections and ham, Van Nest, and part of Bedford sons. “That’s part of our building safe de- to be wearing a religious headscarf un- Ballotopedia, nine other candidates are Park. The nonpartisan special election sign,” she said. derneath her knit hat, seemed a little running in District 15. in District 15 is the first of two elec- more shy than the others and, later, kept We asked Perkins if bullying is a seri- These are Kenny Agosto, district di- tions in the Bronx which will incorpo- close to Blumenthal’s side as she spoke ous problem at the school and if kids, gener- rate the new method of Ranked Choice with reporters. ally, come forward if they’ve been bullied. rector to New York State Senator Jamaal The #HatNotHate campaign had “You know, being, at first, I was assistant T. Bailey, Elisa Crespo, education liaison Voting (RCV). For official information forged a close relationship with the principal here, and now being a principal, at the Bronx borough president’s office, on ranked choice voting, go to the NYC school’s staff, through D’Aguanno and we had had instances, but the thing is, Ariel A. Rivera-Diaz, a former finance Campaign Finance Board FAQ page or sometimes students feel like a one-time oc- when they expressed an urgent need for clerk with the City’s Board of Elections the New York City Board of Elections currence is bullying,” she said. warm hats for their students during the and former official at the Republican Na- website. cold winter months, it was a win-win sit- “In those instances, it wasn’t really tional Hispanic Assembly, Oswald Feliz, The Bronx Board of Elections (BoE) uation. A number of the students live in bullying. It may have been just a verbal is now accepting applications for absen- shelters and were also in need of warm type thing, like, a name they didn’t like, tenant lawyer and adjunct professor at clothing. #HatNotHate saw the oppor- or they said something about what they Hostos Community College, Bernadette tee ballots from voters in District 15 (and tunity to help the students, while also were eating or something like that. Once M. Ferrara, president of the Van Nest in District 11) who wish to vote by mail. spreading a message of solidarity and an- you explain the term, what bullying is, my Neighborhood Alliance, Latchmi Go- Further information can be found on the students usually realize that that’s not the ti-bullying awareness. pal, a community organizer and former BoE’s website or by calling the Bronx case.” October marks National Bullying Pre- staffer for U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, José Board of Elections at (718) 299-9017 and vention Awareness Month, and the blue She said they explain to students that A. Padilla, a former acting supreme court selecting Ext. 1875. Polls are open on hats are usually donated to schools to co- a person can perhaps say something mean election day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. The incide with that month. However, school one day, but that bullying is an ongoing is- justice at the Bronx Supreme Court, closures amid the pandemic upended the sue that is something different. Community Board 6 District Manager, Early Voting Period is from March 13, normal routine. “So, it hasn’t been an ongoing thing, John Sanchez, and Altagracia E. Soldev- 2021 to March 21, 2021. Voters must vote Lion Brand Yarn Company, where thankfully, not too much here at P.S. 294,” illa, another community organizer. at their assigned early voting site. 888"/48&34$0.Visit Our Website "OE8BUDI0VS$MJFOU5FTUJNPOJBMT
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