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Vol 28,ORWOOD No 9Q • 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 • Ap rEWSQ i l 30-Ma y 13, 2015 NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014

INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: FIRST EVER CB7 VETERANS THOUGHTS ON DE-CRIME BILL | PG. 4 COMMITEE FORMED | PG. 3 ICE RINK

Spring Cleaning on lease freeze pg. 7 Construction on Armory could sit until March 2016

Crime Still Up in 52nd Pct. | pg. 9

Photo by Adi Talwar CONSTRUCTION FOR AN ice skating arena at the Kingsbridge Armory (pictured) may not happen until March 2016, more than two years after the Council approved the project.

By DAVID CRUZ KNIC Partners LLC’s lax the lease so long as the devel- “The Armory is a unique Though developers of the movement on building the oper can ultimately show it asset, therefore KNIC is ob- Bailey Avenue a Kingsbridge National Ice Cen- Armory is the group’s lack of has financing earmarked for ligated to demonstrate full Stretch for Concern ter (KNIC), slated to be built financing. It remains short the project. funding to complete the first pg. 11 inside the cavernous Kings- of the $350 million needed KNIC is allowed to access phase of the development be- bridge Armory, ensure the to fully bankroll the project, the Armory, under a license fore they start construction,” project is progressing, there prompting the New York City with the EDC, but it’s shy said an EDC spokesperson. are signs it hasn’t churned Economic Development Cor- of a signed lease agreement “Placing the lease in escrow Out About along as much as it wants the poration (NYCEDC) to place with the city, contradicting is not uncommon on a large & public to think. the project’s lease in escrow, reports that a lease had been complex project such as this pg. 14 Part of what could explain a procedure that guarantees signed. (continued on page 15) 2 • April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST Vol. 28, No. 9 Vol. 27, No. 10 NorwoodVol. News 27, No.is published 10 bi-weeklyVol. 27, on No.Thursdays 10 by Progress Moves, Though Slowly, MosholuNorwood Preservation News Corporationis published (MPC) Norwood3400 Reservoir News isOval published East bi-weeklyNorwood News on Thursdays is published by bi-weeklyBronx, New on ThursdaysYork 10467 by Mosholubi-weeklyPhone: Preservation on 718 Thursdays 324 4998Corporation by MosholuMosholuFax: Preservation 718 324 Corporation2917 Corporation On Proposed Oliver Place Park 3400 Reservoir Oval East E-mail: [email protected] Reservoir Oval Oval East East Web.:Bronx, www.norwoodnews.org New York 10467 Bronx,Bronx, New New York York 10467 10467 By WILLIAM MATHIS to request an assessment of encroach- Community Board 7’s efforts to see ments. Property owners in two neigh- Publisher andPhone:Phone: Executive 718 718 324 324 4998 Director, 4998 MPC Phone: 718 324 4998 the building of a new park in a run- boring houses have built additions Roberto S. GarciaFax:Fax: 718718 324 324 2917 2917 E-mail: [email protected] down lot on the outskirts of Bedford that go beyond their property lines and E-mail: [email protected]: 718 324 2917 DeputyE-mail: Director,Web: [email protected] www.norwoodnews.org MPC Park advanced some, albeit minimally, onto the city-owned land. The property Marcia CameronWeb: www.norwoodnews.org Web: www.norwoodnews.org during a meeting with representatives owners will have to remove these be- Editor-in-Chief, Norwood News DavidPublisher Cruz CEO, Mosholu from various city agencies on April 22. fore the Parks Department will even Mosholu Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQ And behind the slowdown of work are consider taking on a park building PublisherAccounts Receivable CEO, Mosholu PublisherCorporation Corporation MosholuDawn McEvoy Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQCEO, Mosholu unseen hindrances that could explain project there, said Larry Scoones, a MosholuEditor-in-Chief Preservation Roberto S. Garcia Corporation Corporation3UHVHUYDWLRQ why the empty lot has remained un- representative from the Parks Depart- SalesCorporationDavid Representative Cruz Corporation Vivian Carter Roberto S. Garcia touched for decades. ment who attended the meeting. Editor-in-Chief Roberto S. Garcia DavidProofreaderEditor-in-Chief&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ Cruz The vacant lot rests on the corner Once the board resolves these is- JudyDavidDawn Noy Cruz McEvoy of Oliver Place and Decatur Avenue, sues, the community will need to make Regular$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH Contributors a T-shaped intersection with the sur- a formal proposal for the park that’s to &ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJDawn McEvoy DawnDavid&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ McEvoy Greene, Adi Talwar rounding area being mostly residen- be approved by the DEP and the Parks DawnProofreader McEvoy InternsJudy Noy tial buildings. The lot has long been Department. $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOHJenny Sharp, Jasmine Gomez Dawn$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH3URGXFWLRQ McEvoy considered a blight to the community, Committee members expected more ContributorsDawnNeil deMauseMcEvoy rather than a resource. “It has become substantial progress than information ProofreaderWilliam Mathis, Moses Bustos 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV a site of drug use, dumping, graffiti, requests to emerge from the meeting. JudyProofreader Noy JudyDavid Noy Greene, Adi Talwar you name it, it’s there,” said Barbara “I am disappointed,” Stronczer said. “I 3URGXFWLRQFor display advertising, Interns Stronczer, the chair of Community thought we would have more informa- Neil3URGXFWLRQShayla deMause Love,call Paolo (718) Mossetti, 324-4998. Justin McCallum, Neiland deMause Chelsea George Board 7’s Parks and Recreation Com- tion from the two agencies.” 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV Photo by William Mathis Support5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV Your mittee. Once these issues are settled, DavidFor displayGreene, advertising, Adi Talwar call (718) 324-4998. THIS DECATUR AVENUE LOT still re- CommunityDavid Greene, Adi Newspaper! Talwar But ironically, the lot is also the the park’s future will come down to Interns mains a dump despite a push from com- TheSupport Norwood News Your is a not-for-pro t publication only local recreational site for young money. After a meeting between the ShaylaInterns Love, Paolo Mossetti, Justin McCallum, munity activists. andShaylaCommunity relies Love, upon Paolo the Newspaper! supportMossetti, of Justin its advertisers McCallum, people, given the long distance to the committee and community members andand Chelseareaders toGeorge produce a quality community andThe Chelsea Norwood George NewsLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE- nearest park. During warmer months, last December, the Parks Department newspaper.lication and Torelies support upon the your support paper, of its become organized basketball games are held Department of Environmental Protec- and DOT each conceived rough cost Fora memberadvertisers display andadvertising, and receivereaders to acall producesubscription (718) a quality324-4998. for one year.Forcommunity display advertising,newspaper. To call support (718) your 324-4998. paper, inside the angled lot, despite heavy dis- tion to request information about the estimates for a project at the site. Each become a member and receive a subscription carded debris strewn about. locations and delve into how deep the estimate came out to $4.5 million and SupportSimplyfor one mail year. Yourcheck or money order for $40 to: Support Your Despite a massive effort by the com- extent of the department’s infrastruc- neither plan included a playground, a CommunityNorwood News, 3400Newspaper! Reservoir Oval East, Bronx,Simply NY mail 10467. check or money order for $40 munity last December to clean up the ture goes. Without that information, primary request from the community. TheCommunity Norwood News Newspaper!LVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE - Theto: Norwood Norwood News, News 3400LVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE Reservoir Oval East, - lot and convert it to a playground, city the committee cannot begin to develop But community members remained licationBronx, and NY 10467.relies upon the support of its Norwoodlication and News relies is uponnot responsible the support for of its advertiserstypographical and errors. readers Opinions to produce expressed a quality in officials at the meeting listed a number a park proposal. Any potential park optimistic and vowed to keep fighting communitysignedadvertisersNorwood letters News newspaper.and and isreaders not bylined responsible To to supportcolumnsproduce for typo your arepresent- quality paper, of barriers that stand in the way. The installations cannot impede the DEP’s for the park that will best serve their communitygraphical errors. newspaper. Opinions To expressed support in yoursigned paper, becomethe sole aopinion member of andthe authorreceive and a subscription are not obstacles include an unknown amount 24/7 access to its infrastructure, said community. “We’re gonna tell them necessarilybecomeletters anda member bylinedthose columnsof and Mosholu receive represent Preservation a subscriptionthe sole for one year. of infrastructure located underneath Shane Ojar, director of Community what we want and put the pressure on Corporationforopinion one year. of the or author Monte and oreare notMedical necessarily Center. Editorialsthose of Mosholurepresent Preservation the views Corporations of the editor the site, encroachments on the site by Partnerships for the DEP’s Bureau them,” said board member William SimplyRU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS mail check or money order for $40- only. The newspaper reserves the right neighboring buildings and, of course, of Communications and Intergovern- Francis. to:toSimply limitresentNorwood ormail the refuse views checkNews, ofadvertising the or3400 moneyeditor Reservoir and/or itorder deems publisher forOval $40 East, only. The newspaper reserves the right to limit cost. mental Affairs. Ojar agreed to respond For now, the DOT will install a Bronx,objectionable.to: Norwood NY 10467. News, Advertisements 3400 Reservoir appearing Oval East, inBronx, thisor refuse paper NY advertising10467. cannot it be deems used objectionable. without The committee would ultimately to the committee in about a month. locked fence around the property by Advertisements appearing in this paper cannot the written permission of the Norwood pass a motion to send two letters to be- The committee also resolved to send early May to prevent it further misuse, NorwoodNews.be used Letters Newswithout to is the thenot written editorresponsible permission are subject for of Nortypo to- - Norwoodwood News. News Letters is not to theresponsible editor are subject for typo - graphicalcondensation errors. and Opinions editing. expressed Writers should in signed gin to resolve these issues. a letter to the Department of Transpor- according to a department representa- graphicalto condensation errors. and Opinions editing. Writersexpressed should in signed lettersinclude and their bylined af liation columns or special represent interest the ifsole It will send one letter to the city tation, which currently owns the site, tive at the meeting. LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ any.letters Anonymous and bylined letters columns are representnot published the sole opinionAnonymous of the letters author are and not publishedare not necessarilybut your butopinion your of name the author can be and withheld are not upon necessarily thosename of canMosholu be withheld Preservation if requested. Corporations RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHSrequest.those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations- resentRU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS the views of the editor and/or publisher- Public and Community Meetings only.resent The the newspaper views of the reserves editor and/or the right publisher to limit only.Mosholu The newspaperPreservation Corporationreserves theis a right to limit COMMUNITY BOARD 7 will hold its general board meeting on Tuesday, May 19 at the Cherkasky Auditorium or refuseQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH advertising it deems objectionable. or refuse advertising it deems objectionable. AdvertisementsMedical Center. appearing in this paper cannot at Montefiore Medical Center, 111 E. 210th St., at 6:30 p.m. CB7 committees are held on the following dates at the beAdvertisements used without theappearing written inpermission this paper of cannot Nor- board office, 229A E. 204th St., at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted: Veterans Committee meets May 4; Executive be used without the written permission of Nor- woodMosholu News. Preservation Letters to theCorporation editor are is subject a non- Committee meets May 5; Public Safety & Quality of Life meets May 7; Health & Hospitals meets May 7 at 7:30 p.m.; wood News. Letters to the editor are subject topro condensation t support corporation and editing. of Writers Monte should ore and Senior Services meets May 13. For more information, call the Board office at (718) 933-5650. LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\Medicalto condensation Center. and editing. Writers should AnonymousLQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ letters are not published but your THE BEFORD MOSHOLU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION meets at 400 E. Mosholu Pkwy, So., Apt. B1 (lobby nameAnonymous can be letters withheld are if not requested. published but your name can be withheld if requested. floor), on May 6 at 8 p.m. For more information, call (718) 367-2230.

Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a QRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUHMosholu Preservation Corporation is a MedicalQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH Center. Medical Center. April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News • 3 First Ever CB7 Veterans Panel Answers Call of Duty

By DAVID CRUZ wood, Bedford Park, Fordham, Univer- Community Board 7 voted to form sity Heights, and Kingsbridge, which a committee aimed at improving the is home to the James J. Peters Veter- lives of U.S. military veterans, a panel ans Hospital. A spokesman for the hos- unseen in other local community pital said the VA is willing to dole out boards. useful information for vets, though it “We’re not doing case management, was non-committal over whether a VA but we want to try to point people in representative can attend meetings. the right direction to get the social There are currently just under 5,000 services that are required to improve veterans within Community Board 7’s and sustain their quality of life,” said boundaries, part of the nearly 35,000 Amjad Mujaahid, the newly appointed Photo by David Cruz vets living in , according to chairman of the Veterans Committee. THE FIRST EVER VETERANS Committee in Community Board 7 convenes. The Board U.S. Census figures. Yet, veteran com- The committee was unanimously approved the recognition of the committee at the April 21 general board meeting. mittees haven’t been formed through- recognized by the Board at its April 17 out the city. General Board meeting, and is poised children, did not know where to access until now. “We are the tip of the spear, leading to be included in its bylaws. Overall, information regarding assistance to “Every generation has a responsi- the way for the rest of the Bronx to get the committee aims to support vets in aid him, information that Mujaahid bility to improve on what the last gen- on board to support veterans and their several areas including health and nu- believes should be readily available to eration has done. Now it’s our turn for families,” said Mujaahid. trition, housing and home ownership, all vets, part of a broader mission by this new generation, to give veterans The committee hopes to receive social and legal referral services, and the committee. It also aims to forge re- the support that they want and need as feedback that may help identify the employment and small business op- lationships with elected officials and they transition back into civilian life, most pressing issues from veterans portunities, among more. groups that work towards helping vet- especially when it comes to employ- within the district. The first order of Mujaahid has been with the Board erans. ment, housing, family support, and business was throwing the support for over a year. His inspiration to form Among the members is William health care,” said Francis, who will for holding a veterans job fair on June a veterans committee came after en- Francis, a five-year Board member serve as vice chair along with Carlos 19 at the Bronx Library Center. The countering a distressed military man and U.S. Air Force vet, who often had Rodriguez, a Board member and Army group plans to meet the first Mon- on the verge of transitioning back into explored the possibility of forming a veteran, who will serve as secretary. day of every month at 6:30 p.m. civilian life. The man, married with veterans committee, yet was unable Community Board 7 covers Nor- With Jasmine Gomez. 4 • April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER By DAVID GREENE

This week we asked readers their thoughts on the proposed bill in the New York City Council that would decriminalize such low-level crimes such as transit fare-beating.

I once had an emergency and I I don’t think there’s really anything It’s a crime. I think all of the small It’s a crime. We pay our fares but I paid $1.25 and now and it’s $1.35 hopped the train and [the fi ne] wrong with it. There could be an Broken Windows crimes that they don’t want to pay theirs. [senior fare]. Young people get on was $100. So I feel that it’s not emergency and they have to get should be considered a crime, That’s the crime. If you don’t have the bus and tell the bus driver that worth it jumping on the bus or train somewhere and some people because I believe it leads to the money, don’t go. they don’t have money. The bus because you’re being charged can’t afford a MetroCard and it’s bigger crimes. They should get a Charles Parker driver lets them ride for free. And more than 50 times what the fare an emergency and you hop on the summons and they should check Parkchester I’ve got to pay more. They should costs. And don’t be late to pay bus. Children do it every day to go people’s records when they get keep the law the way it is. because that’s another $50. I to school. arrested for small crimes. They Maria Bodden ended up paying $180 because I Olando Smith could have outstanding warrants. Parkchester was in a rush. I was lucky because University Heights Luis Cruz they didn’t arrest me. Norwood Sheleque Burgess East Harlem

Editor’s Note: Have an idea for an Inquiring Photographer question? Send suggestions to [email protected]. April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News • 5

Cancer Screening Saves Lives We can help You

The fight against breast, cervical and colorectal cancer begins with WƌŽŐƌĂŵWĂƌƟĐŝƉĂŶƚƐ regular screenings. We can provide free screenings regardless of ͻLincoln Medical Center citizenship status for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer, if you: ͻDŽƌƌŝƐĂŶŝĂΘd Have no health insurance ͻ^ĞŐƵŶĚŽZƵŝnjĞůǀŝƐΘd Are between 40 and 64 years old ͻ:ĂĐŽďŝDĞĚŝĐĂůĞŶƚĞƌ Live in the Bronx ͻDŽŶƚĞĮŽƌĞDĞĚŝĐĂůĞŶƚĞƌ ͻDƵůƟͲŝĂŐŶŽƐƟĐ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ/ŶĐ͘ Did You Know? ͻEŽƌƚŚĞŶƚƌĂůƌŽŶdž,ŽƐƉŝƚĂů 108 people in the Bronx are diagnosed with cancer each week ͻWƌŽũĞĐƚZĞŶĞǁĂů͕/ŶĐ͘ ͻ^ƚ͘ĂƌŶĂďĂƐ,ŽƐƉŝƚĂů Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women in New York State ͻhŶŝǀĞƌƐŝƚLJŝĂŐŶŽƐƟĐDĞĚŝĐĂů/ŵĂŐŝŶŐ͕W

In 2012, an estimated 3,000 New Yorkers may have lost their Funded by a grant from the New York State Department battle against colorectal cancer of Health, Bureau of Chronic Disease Control

Together we can reverse these trends. The Bronx County Cancer Services Program can provide you with free cancer screenings. For an appointment call 718-579-6453 6 • April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News New Norwood News Sales Rep Doubles as Borough Booster

The award-winning Norwood News cultural programs at the numerous is pleased to announce that Vivian R. college campuses, libraries and mu- Carter has joined the paper as adver- seums, awesome transportation op- tising representative. Carter is now tions, and stunning architecture. reaching out to local businesses and What more could you want? Oh, great not-for-profit groups to boost the ben- food!” efits of advertising in the local news- Carter is a fan of Arthur Avenue, paper that has been serving the north- enjoys an occasional Gun Hill stout west Bronx since 1988. at Bronx Ale House, likes to attend “I’ve always admired the history concerts at Lehman and view the and mission of the Norwood News,” monuments at Woodlawn Cemetery. she said. “Local newspapers serve an In addition to selling advertising, important purpose, particularly in ar- she teaches architecture and design eas like this that would otherwise be workshops in schools and libraries overlooked. Under the direction of our in Westchester and the five boroughs. editor, David Cruz, this paper quietly Photo by David Cruz She is also a licensed New York City Vivian R. Carter does its job of producing quality news sightseeing guide, and conducts tours for an unassuming corner of the bor- for the Municipal Art Society of NYC. ough that is also home to powerhouse tails to make it happen. rants, condominiums, health provid- Carter will be leading a free walk- institutions—from Montefiore Hos- Carter comes to the Norwood News ers and fitness clubs. She also wrote ing tour called “Way Out in Norwood: pital and Fordham University to the with extensive media education and a column on local non-profit cultural, 8 Bronx Landmarks in 2 Hours,” on Wildlife Conservation Society and the experience—she has a bachelor’s in recreational and ecology groups, and Sunday, May 3, from 1 to 3 p.m., rain New York Botanical Garden. What a journalism from Northwestern Uni- created the area’s first local events or shine. If you’d like to join her for great cultural legacy!” versity, plus graduate degrees from blog, Oy Vey Rockaway. In 2012, her the tour, you can register online at Carter is meeting with businesses, Fordham University and Brooklyn book, Images of America: Rockaway www.mas.org/janeswalk/. Meet at large and small, to help them craft College. She worked for Times Mirror Beach, was published by Arcadia. the Mosholu Parkway station of the 4 messages and packages of print and Publishing and later, for The Wave in Carter traveled extensively after train (bottom of staircase on west side online ads to reach their target audi- Rockaway Beach, where she generated Superstorm Sandy’s devastation, and of ) at 1 p.m. One of the ences. From a simple business direc- hundreds of thousands in sales, help- recently decided to move to the Bronx. stops on the tour will be the Reservoir tory listing to a full-page color ad on ing to launch ad campaigns for some “The northwest Bronx has excellent Keeper’s House at 3400 Reservoir Oval the back page, she handles all the de- of the peninsula’s hottest new restau- medical services, fabulous parks and East, home of the Norwood News. BIG SAVINGS THROUGHOUT THE JEROME-GUN HILL AREA! COME SHOP & SAVE BIG ALL YEAR ROUND

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for more information www.jeromegunhillbid.orgor visit us at April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News • 7 Spring Cleanup at Mosholu Parkway

Photo courtesy Office of Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj VOLUNTEERS HAUL THIS dead tree limb off Mosholu Parkway, part of an extended cleanup job on April 25. A handful of volunteers spent a couple of hours working to spruce up the scenic dale, with plenty of help from As- semblyman Mark Gjonaj of the 86th Assembly District, who sponsored the event.

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Organic Herbs | Quality Vitamins | Weight Loss Products 8 • April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News THE BRONX BELTWAY By DAVID CRUZ

Torres’ Time vying for Torres’ attention. That’s The New Bronx,” a slogan coined chump change for multi-billion dol- Some of the Bronx beltway’s a good thing given Torres’ paltry by Bronx Borough President Ruben lar banks. Collected fines would go brightest stars came out in support sum of campaign cash on hand, just Diaz Jr. aimed at putting the Bronx’s to a maintenance fund managed by of their star, Councilman Ritchie $140,048, according to campaign fi- accomplishments on a pedestal (and the State Attorney General. So in (“The Rookie” as one guest phrased nance records. there are many). essence, the banks are being forced it) Torres, who flashed his Obama- An interesting side note on Sep- The New Bronx has garnered a to pay for these foreclosed homes like smile all night during his fund- tember Primaries, one unnamed po- following, though it’s inspired crit- anyway. raiser. At Michaelangelo’s restau- litical insider called Assemblyman ics who took to social media to blast rant in Belmont, across the corner Jose Rivera, who has been spotted the billboard. Sizzurp from where Torres claimed victory making some rounds, an untouch- “The Bronx is not for sale,” wrote For politicians looking for a as Council Member during the 2013 able should anyone want to run prolific Bronx blogger Ed Conde Gar- cause, here’s one: sizzurp, a.k.a. election cycle, Torres worked the against Rivera again. “You can go cia, one of the more pronounced Diaz purple drank. Police officials doled room extensively, shaking hands door to door to meet every single pri- detractors. out information on the trendy drug with residents from all corners of his mary voter, and be nice to you, and of choice at One Police Plaza. The 15th Council District. they’ll still vote for Jose Rivera. The King’s Court(case?) cocktail is a mix of Sprite, behind- The turnout featured a cross sec- man’s a legend. The name Rivera car- Councilman Andy King is ex- the-counter cough syrup and a hard tion of the Bronx, with folks coming ries a lot of weight,” said the source pected to be named in a sexual ha- candy to cover the mediciny taste. from faraway Throggs Neck and sec- with an air of confidence. rassment lawsuit. At times alcohol is used as a substi- tions of Bedford Park, an example A report by Capital New York tute. It’s popular among teens, says of Torres’ jurisdictional reach. One Sign of a New Bronx said the suit alleges King fired a one cop source, all sharing respon- political operative compared Torres’ Have you caught the enormous staffer from the Black, Latino and sibility in concocting the danger- district to that of a “starfish,” though sign seen at the Hutchinson River Asian Caucus for which King serves ous tonic, mostly at schools, with it’s more like an octopus, with tenta- Parkway by the ever-ballooning as chairman, for rebuffing his ad- students bringing in the key ingre- cles all over the Bronx. Hutch Metro Center? It’s a picture vances. King certainly has clout in dients separately. With an off year in the election of a gentleman in a suit, his back his district given the large turnout In some cases, school safety offi- cycle, Torres lucked out with the turned to us as he overlooks a city- at his recent State of the 12th Council cers inadvertently clear a student to turnout, given the scant races dur- scape (could be the Bronx, though District, so it’ll be interesting how use cough syrup after feigning they ing this political season. One orga- it bears similarities to Manhattan) his base reacts to this. Should he re- need it to soothe their ails. If pre- nizer said the function netted “a lot” from atop a wooden deck. Above sign under pressure, King would be scribed cough syrup is out of reach, of money with a number of lobbyists the sign reads, “It’s Here. Welcome placed in the pantheon of tarnished users likely opt for Robitussin. politicos in the borough. The Bronx Beltway hopes that’s not the case. Decriminalizing Offenses King’s office declined comment, With sizzurp making the rounds, deferring to the press office from the who knows whether it’ll actually be New York City Council which only deemed a criminal offense given Shop Fordham Road emphasized that the Council stresses Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Vi- “THE OUTDOOR MALL EXPERIENCE” a healthy, workplace environment. verito’s bill to decriminalize petty quality-of-life crimes such as pub- ‘Zombie’ Homes lic urination or fare beating, ef- The walking dead of homes are fectively weakening punishment. alive and well in the Bronx, and Mark-Viverito’s voice holds a lot of Senator Jeff Klein wants to put an weight, so one can expect most of end to that plague. Zombie proper- the Bronx Council Delegation to be ties are foreclosed homes seized by on board. banks but never given the proper But Councilman Jimmy Vacca, upkeep as it churns through fore- whose district is largely conserva- closure messes. tive, is put in a tough spot. Vacca, Klein and Assemblywoman who was appointed Deputy Leader OVER 300 Helene Weinstein want banks to by Mark-Viverito, is walking a po- SPECIALTY SHOPS maintain regular upkeep to empty litical tightrope as he must balance homes, as they often turn into ha- the needs of his boss with the needs AND CHAINS vens for vermin and squatters. Stiff of his district’s social conservative civil fines run up to $1,000 a day for base. Vacca did not want to com- Furniture • Home Improvement neglected homes, which is perhaps ment on this. Clothing • Jewelery • Shoes Electronics • Discount Outlets Cell Phones • Games, F Accessories • Offi ce Supplies FORDHAM ROAD And Many Fast Food Restaurants BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT For more information contact (718) 562-2104 Acccessible By All NYC Mass Transportation Parking Facilities Available April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News • 9 Crime Stats Croton Filtration Plant Update Still Up in 52nd Pct. By WILLIAM MATHIS Crime within the 52nd Precinct continues to rise, though police en- sured community members at a re- cent meeting it intends to stem the increase. CompStat figures show felony as- saults, grand larcenies and robberies have gone up compared to the same 28- day period in 2014. The worst increase is among robberies, which rose to 33 percent, a number described by one police official as “skyrocketing.” The Photo by Moses Bustos uptick in robberies has pushed crime CFMC BOARD MEMBERS listen to community input regarding construction of the Croton Water Filtration Plant. They’re towards positive territory within the joined by representatives of elected officials, the New York City Department of Environment and New York City Department 52nd Precinct, even as crime num- of Parks. bers in most Bronx precincts have de- creased when compared to the same time last year. Captain Linda Rock-Wright, stand- Water Rates Rise as ing in for commanding officer Inspec- tor Nilda Hofmann at the 52nd Pre- cinct Community Council meeting, blamed part of this increase to shop- pers’ carelessness. One of the more Trees Still Pending brazen robberies happened at Ford- ham Family Pharmacy on April 4, By MOSES BUSTOS tal projects are currently in devel- cal infrastructure work is sched- with thieves robbing the place of Oxy- At the latest Croton Facilities opment. Several months ago, the uled to finish by the end of April. codone and Percocet tablets, $400 cash Monitoring Committee (CFMC) on Parks Department ensured 553 new Andrew Penzi, a Parks Depart- and lotto tickets. The thieves are still April 20, the New York City Depart- trees would be replanted in what’s ment spokesman, assured commit- on the run. ment of Environmental Protection now deemed a sparse forest, with tee members that the public’s input The precinct has several programs (DEP) announced a 3.24 percent trees now being replanted around on construction practices is noted, to reverse the trend, Rock-Wright water and sewer rate increase for the perimeter of the Jerome Park and their concerns regarding the noted. Those include the How Not the 2016 fiscal year. The agency, Reservoir, the site where filtered inefficiencies of capital project de- to Be a Victim program, the Crime which has oversight on the long- water rests. velopment will be relayed to the ap- Prevention Office and also the poten- overdue Croton Water Filtration A walkway abutting the reser- propriate authorities. tial for the precinct to reallocate re- Plant project, has passed the cost voir’s perimeter remains closed, Although both the DEP’s data sources in response to crime. to building the water plant, which with DEP officials citing security and the Parks Department’s de- Carlos Ortiz, a local resident, ex- is four times over budget, by rais- concerns. Activists have fought for velopment schedule projected a pressed his frustration over a number ing water rates. the opening of the reservoir, noting positive future for Bronx neigh- of late-night muggings of people com- The news was one of several it would be an ideal space for recre- borhoods, some community mem- ing from the 4 train station at Jerome items that came out of the latest ational walkers. bers were not convinced. The DEP, Avenue and Mosholu Parkway. Rock- CFMC meetings, the first one in The CFMC, a major pipeline of which owns the reservoir space, Wright could not provide him infor- several months. communication between the Bronx passes maintenance responsibili- mation on whether any arrests have And, as it’s been the case for public and the various government ties to Parks. Activists have long been made in those cases. years, worries over the environ- entities involved in the plant’s de- held the relationship between DEP “We know mugging is considered mental impact of the plant, rising velopment, experienced its own and Parks as questionable given a robbery and we have increased rob- budget needs and frequent delays share of delays recently, after its the lack of inter-departmental co- bery arrests,” Rock-Wright responded. persist among Bronx community chairman, Fr. Richard Gorman, operation and communication. She also opened the possibility of in- members that the plant’s seem- who doubles as chair of Commu- In light of these concerns, An- creasing police foot traffic around ingly endless development is drain- nity Board 12, was unavailable due drew Sandler, aide to Councilman transit stations where residents have ing the borough’s budget. Similar to personal health problems. Ada- Andrew Cohen, agreed to circulate been victimized. complaints were made against the line Walker-Santiago, chairwoman DEP Mitigation Plan reports and “It is up to the community to try New York City Parks & Recreation of Community Board 7, took the make them available to the CFMC. and make things work,” said Brenda Department over traffic lane ob- reins to lead the committee. He also assured the committee that Caldwell, president of the Community structions, unsound park designs, Since their last assembly, con- Cohen has already allocated fund- Council. “We all come together for the and the disappearance of entire struction has continued at the ing necessary to continue monitor- concerns of the community that sur- forested areas in neighborhoods plant, where disinfection of the ing the wetlands, as well as fund a rounds the Five-Two.” where the Parks Department capi- New Croton Aqueduct and electri- forest restoration initiative. 10 • April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News

Percentage of non-emergency patients whoHow visit much the emergency of a person’s room. life Vital Stats Be Healthy 3033%(Source:is dedicated American Journal to ofsleep. Managed Care) Treating a Teddy Bear a Lesson on Caring for People By JASMINE GOMEZ consultation session where the kids will shows that 30 percent of visits to the ER The Pediatric Emergency Depart- learn how to care for their bear after dis- turn out to be non-emergency, meaning ment at the Children’s Hospital at Mon- charge. a visit to a primary care physician could tefiore (CHAM) treats about 600,000 “A primary goal of the event is to have been utilized instead. “It’s good to patients a year, about 150 to 200 a day, educate children and families about engage with healthcare providers before making it a goal for the hospital to de- what happens in the emergency room, you’re sick because prevention is impor- crease the stress and fear that overcome to decrease fear of coming to the emer- tant,” explained Hollingsworth. many parents and children during a visit gency room when the child encounters a Attendance at Montefiore’s annual to the emergency room. trauma,” said Dr. Nicole Hollingsworth, Teddy Bear Hospital is set to increase To ease some of the common fears EdD, Assistant Vice President of Com- this year, as organizers of the event ex- children and parents often feel when munity and Population Health at Mon- pect at least 400 children to show, com- entering an emergency room, CHAM Photo courtesy Montefiore Medical Center tefiore Medical Center. Hollingsworth pared to the 300 who attended last year. will host a Teddy Bear Hospital on May THESE TWO LITTLE girls get a lesson finds that children who have attended Children can also tour an ambulance on caring for the sick with help from their 9. There, children can learn how to be the Teddy Bear Hospital exhibit bravery and the Wakefield Campus Emergency plush toys at last year’s Teddy Bear Hos- comfortable within a healthcare setting in place of fear should they go back to the Department and interact with costumed pital sponsored by the Children’s Hospital while also getting tips on how to stay as ER. This is due to their familiarity with characters such as McGruff, the crime at Montefiore. Alongside the girls are Dr. healthy as possible. To do that, they’ll Nicole Hollingsworth, EdD, Assistant Vice an emergency room visit following the safety dog. need the help of a teddy bear. President of Community and Popula- event. The Teddy Bear Clinic runs from 10 Children 12 and under and their par- tion Health at Montefiore Medical Center Another aim of the event is to provide a.m. to 2 p.m. The program will present ents or guardians are invited to bring in (right), and a CHAM pediatrician (left). parents with information about preven- information in both English and Span- their “injured” teddy bears or stuffed an- tive care and the use of primary care ser- ish. The first 400 children will receive a imals for a simulation of would be treat- different stages of an emergency room vices before a situation becomes drastic. backpack filled with a teddy bear, infor- ment were the bear an actual patient at visit which include triage, a meeting This can include taking preventive action mation on how to keep fit, Teddy Graham the pediatric emergency department. with a doctor who will assess and treat against asthma to ward off an asthma at- cookies, a water bottle, and a Berenstein’s Teddy bear “patients” will encounter the the teddy bear’s condition, as well as a tack. A study on emergency room visits Bears book about a visit to the ER.

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By JENNY SHARP could make that decision locally,” he Concerned residents describe Bai- said, explaining that requests for se- ley Avenue in Kingsbridge as a hotbed curity cameras must be submitted to of logistical dysfunction and a hazard the police headquarters at One Police to public safety. Plaza for the final decision. Similarly, At a Community Board 7 general the installation of a new stoplight is a board meeting on April 21, two resi- federal matter and must comply with dents painted a picture of the resi- the government standard. Before tools dential and commercial street, often such as speed bumps can be imple- treated like a parkway rife with speed, mented, the Department of Transpor- traffic, and little regulation. Photo by Jenny Sharp tation dispatches an assessor to the The stretch of road, running paral- IT MAY BE a long road ahead to ease the culture of speeding and near misses on area to determine whether these ad- lel to the Major Deegan Expressway, Bailey Avenue. ditional steps would help or hurt the extends nearly a mile from West 225th flow of the street. Street to Sedgewick Avenue without a there, with lack of regulation, traffic intersection at 225th Street near the But while the issues described by stoplight. Flanking the other side of lights, and police presence. “We used school needs more than one crossing Wilson are detrimental to quality Bailey Avenue are residential homes, to have police officers that used to sit guard to properly protect the chil- of life, they are not life-threatening. businesses, and PS 310, resting at the back here and clock the speed,” said dren and that the camera does very Faulkner explained that Cabrera’s re- corner of Bailey Avenue and West Wilson in a follow-up phone interview. little to reduce speed. “I don’t see any quests for security cameras on Bailey Kingsbridge Road. Longtime resident “Now this is a dead spot, a real dead change.” Avenue have been consistently denied Helene Wilson, who has lived in the spot.” The office of Councilman Fernando in favor of areas with higher rates of area for 25 years, was the most vocal The Police Department and the Cabrera, whose district Bailey Avenue more violent crime. “Folks need to let at the Board meeting over her frustra- Department of Transportation have falls in, confirmed that this thorough- us know when these things are hap- tions with the state of Bailey Avenue. installed a speed enforcement cam- fare is both a known problem and also pening,” said Faulkner, explaining Among her complaints were traf- era that’s functional when school is in a concern for Cabrera. Chief-of-Staff that reporting complaints to the 311 fic, speed, illegal car washes operat- session. There is also a crossing guard Greg Faulkner said Bailey Avenue is hotline helps representatives prove ne- ing on the street, and 18-wheelers tak- outside PS 310 who directs traffic at high on the office’s list of areas that cessity to bureaucratic entities. “Hom- ing up parking spots and leaving their the start and end of each school day. need more attention, but that many eowners should get involved,” he said, rigs for extended periods of time. Drag Wilson is adamant that these mea- efforts have been bogged down by bu- because it “provides additional eyes races have been known to happen sures are not enough, saying that the reaucracy. “I wish it was easier and we and ears.” 12 • April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News Classifi eds Professional Directory

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Photo courtesy Monroe College BRONX TEENS LEARNED what it takes to be a man at a morning work- shop hosted by Monroe College, with support from AimHigh Empowerment Institute. Male teens connected with professional mentors, who espoused AimHigh’s three pillars of “competence, confidence and character.” Among the esteemed guests was WCBS-TV journalist and anchorman Maurice DuBois. A full story can be found on www.norwoodnews.org. 14 • April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News Out About with a celebration. Includes reading to create original jewelry, April 30; and & aloud, movies, puppet shows, craft Knitting Circle: Thursdays at 3 p.m. For EDITOR’S PICK workshops, and more. Reading logs more information, call (718) 882-8239. will be kept at the children’s information desk (free gift when you sign up). Adults • The Jerome Park Library, 118 Eames can enjoy Patron Lending Event: Learn Place (near Kingsbridge Road), offers Mother’s Day at NYBG if you’re eligible for free internet service, for kids: Get Active Fridays: (ages 5 to May 1 at 4 p.m. and May 4 at noon; Bronx 12), dance and zumba, May 1 at 3 p.m.; The entire family can celebrate Mother’s Day at the New York Heroes Comic Con: Women in Comics and Toddler Time: (18 to 36 months), Botanical Garden the weekend of May 9 and 10 with a garden party Convention: Learn about the comic book stories, action songs and nursery featuring live music, games, picnicking, dance performance on the industry, meet writers, join discussions rhymes, May 11 at 6 p.m. For more and workshops, receive free comic book Conservatory Lawn, and more. Children’s activities include crafting information, call (718) 549-5200. birds’ nests, Mother’s Day cards, and creating giant chalk drawings in while supplies last, May 2 at 11 a.m.; and the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden. There will also be a roaming MS Word 2010 for Beginners: May 7 at 2 p.m. (advance in-person registration HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY TO ALL OUR photographer on hand. A Mother’s Day brunch will be held on May required). For more information, call (718) MOM READERS! 10 in the Garden’s Terrace Room which includes a spread of omelets, 579-4244/46/57 or visit www.nypl.org. carving table fare, and desserts. For more information, call (718) 817- NOTE: Items for consideration may 8700. • The Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th be mailed to our offi ce or sent to St., offers for children: For teens/young [email protected], adults, there is fi lm: “Unbroken,” May 9 and should be received by May 4 for Onstage most money wins a trophy and a $100 gift at 1:30 p.m. Adults can enjoy Jewelry card. For more information, call (718) 882- Club at 11 a.m.: bring your own materials the next publication date of May 14. • The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. 4000 ext. 350. Kingsbridge Rd., presents Celia Cruz H.S.’s big band, Full Swing Ahead • Bronx Community College, 2155 and girls band, Sophisticated Ladies, University Ave., hosts the 37th annual concert, May 6 at 6 p.m.; and Red Hot 10K/5K Run & 2-Mile Walk, May 2. The NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES & Live, featuring Afrobeat Nigerian icon, Run the Bronx begins at 10 a.m. sharp drummer, dancers and performers, May and registration starts at 7 a.m., followed 9 at 2:30 p.m. For more information, call by an award ceremony and post race (718) 579-4244/46/57 or visit www.nypl. refreshments. For more information, call Food Assistance Programs consultations include criminal, (718) 289-5162. org. Information on several food NYCHA, tenant/landlord, public assistance programs including assistance, wills, healthcare prox- • Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, • Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., presents Old Concourse (165th Street), presents free the federal SNAP/food stamp pro- ies, contract disputes, family law First Friday, May 1, 6 to 10 p.m. For more School Hip-Hop, featuring numerous live gram, WIC, school and summer issues, and civil litigations. For artists, May 9 at 8 p.m. (tickets are $45 information, call (718) 681-6000. to $60). For more information, call (718) meals, senior meals, and more more information and to sched- 960-8833. • Wave Hill, a Bronx oasis at 675 W. is available by calling the New ule an appointment, call (718) 684- 252nd St. in Riverdale, offers Family Art Projects: Ephemeral Creatures in Clay, York Coalition Against Hunger of- 5509. Events to sculpt mythological creatures from fice at (212) 825-0028. Information clay, May 2 and 3; and Sachets and Floral on Bronx food programs is also Bird Watching • Montefi ore Medical Center, 111 E. Fantasies for Mom, to hear stories about 210th St., presents The Beat of the animals and their mothers, then decorate available in English at http://bit. Bird Walks at Van Cortlandt Bronx, Culture for a Cause, in its Grand a special card for Mom and make a ly/1FksQB3 and Spanish at http:// Park are available for free each Hall, Tischman Learning Center (Gun fragrant sachet gift fi lled with lavender bit.ly/1aYB1GG. Saturday from 8 to 9:30 a.m. until Hill Road entrance), May 7 from 6 to 9 and decorated, May 9 and 10; both in WH p.m. Events include live music, local House from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Grounds November. Anyone interested can artists, great food, prizes, and more. All admission is free until noon Saturdays and Free Tutoring meet at the Nature Center, 246th proceeds will be reinvested into the Bronx Tuesdays all year. For more information Free tutoring in math, history, Street and Broadway. For more community (tickets: $20/pre-sale; $25/at and a schedule of events including tours the door; includes entrance and one raffl e and walks, call (718) 549-3200. English and science is available information, contact Joseph Mc- ticket). For more information, visit www. for students ages 12 to 21 at Sistas Manus at [email protected]. wearethebronx.org/beatofthebronx. Library Events & Brothers United, 103 E. 196th St., • The Fordham Road BID presents its 3rd fl., Mondays to Fridays from MMCC Pre-K Applications • The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Mother’s Day themed sidewalk sale 3 to 6 p.m. For more information, The Mosholu Montefiore Com- May 7 to 9, noon to 7 p.m. on Fordham Kingsbridge Rd., presents for children: Road between Washington and Jerome Preschool Story Time at 11 a.m.: (ages call (718) 584-0515 ext. 243 or (347) munity Center is accepting appli- avenues. For more information, visit 3 to 5 years); and Toddler Play Time 481-6180. cations for its Pre-K, Head Start fordhamroadbid.org. at noon: (ages 18 to 36 months); both on April 30, May 7 and 14; Hands-On and child care programs at the Van • The Mosholu Montefi ore Community Projects at 4 p.m. (ages 7 to 12): Flower Free Legal Help Cortlandt Village Child Develop- Making: April 30 and Chicken Nest Center presents its B’N Fit Annual Teen Free legal services are avail- ment Center, located inside the VC & Community Walk, a fundraising event Making: May 14; and Family Time: (ages able at the office of Councilman Jewish Center, 3880 Sedgwick Ave. on May 2 at 8:30 a.m. at the New York 3 to 6; preregistration required), reading Botanical Garden. Sign up for $10 at aloud and crafts, May 9 at 11 a.m. Kids Andy King, 940 E. Gun Hill Rd., For more information, call (718) can sign up at the Children’s Information mmcc.org. Free for children 10 and under Fridays through June 26. Legal 543-0231 or (718) 882-4000. when accompanied by a paying adult. Desk for Spring Into Reading!: Reading The team or individual that raises the club, Sundays through May 31 ending April 30-May 13, 2015 • Norwood News • 15 Ice Rink Funds Delay Lease

(continued from page 1) ing. The New York City Economic July 2013 during the lengthy public to their application that must be made and will help move this important and Development Corporation, under review process. to receive construction permits,” said exciting project forward to the benefit the Bloomberg Administration, KNIC’s first application for an al- DOB spokesman Alex Schnell in an of the Kingsbridge community.” cleared KNIC to lease the building teration permit through the New York email. “Applications for permits that Under the lease terms, KNIC is for 99 years, pegged as a global game City Department of Buildings was are submitted to the Department must mandated to show it has the required changer for the Bronx. A Community completed by SCI Architects, P.C., be in compliance with all applicable funds by March 2016 to begin phase Benefits Agreement worked out be- which designed blueprints for Madi- regulations in the building code and one of the project, which is obligated tween KNIC and community groups son Square Garden. The plans were zoning resolution to receive approval to be completed by August 2018. promised the community a total of $1 subsequently rejected by DOB, which during a plan exam.” “Our fundraising is on schedule billion in benefits, living wage jobs some developers say is often standard The permits are critical to KNIC’s and we are continuing with the for- and 50,000 square feet of community operating procedure, pointing to the alterations of the Armory, which in- ward progress of this transformative space. inherent bureaucracy within New clude the installation of a 50’ by 10’ project,” said Mark Messier, CEO of The news also comes amid KNIC’s York City government. A developer illuminated sign and eight banner KNIC LLC. “We are excited about the consideration of funds from EB5, a is normally rejected, and asked to go signs onto the Armory’s exterior. In support we have received from inves- program that seeks out foreign inves- before the Board of Standards and 2013, LPC approved KNIC to alter the tors and the community – all partners tors to provide monies for a project Appeals (BSA) to apply for a variance. outside so long as it has an approved in helping us make this inspiring in exchange for fast-tracked legal en- The BSA eventually changed the zon- permit from DOB. The agency has yet project a reality.” try into the U.S. Investment monies ing status of the Armory from an R6 to receive one, according to an LPC But phase one is just half of the by foreign investors are mandated to to a C4, which allows for a “physical spokeswoman. project. The agreement requires produce American jobs, according to and cultural establishment” such as KNIC was prevented from working KNIC only build five rinks, a parking terms laid out by the U.S. Department an ice rink. on the project for most of last year fol- facility with 400 spots and the 50,000 of Homeland Security. But DOB objections remain in lowing several lawsuits between lead square feet of community space by limbo. Those include an approval by developer Kevin Parker and a trio of August 2018. The final plans called for Building Permits the Landmarks Preservation Com- principals once linked to the proj- nine rinks to be built and a 5,000-seat With a project in escrow, KNIC is mission (LPC), which was required ect. In lawsuits filed against Parker, arena at the center of the complex. currently barred from repurposing to review KNIC’s alterations to the plaintiffs had mentioned Parker’s in- The revelations shed light into the project, which does require con- exterior of the building given the Ar- experience in getting a project of this some behind-the-scenes dealings struction permits. As it stands, KNIC mory’s landmark status. size off the ground. from KNIC, which for months has has no approved city building permit, “Since being disapproved in 2013, The news adds to the string of de- insisted the project is in good stand- which it had initially applied for in [KNIC] has not remedied objections lays for the Armory.

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