Lawsuits Mar Development of Kingsbridge Armory

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ORWOODQ EWSQ NVol.Vol 27, 27, No. No 8 12 •P UBLISHEDPu b l i s h e d BY B yM MOSHOLUo s h o lu P PRESERVATIONreservation CCORPORATIONo r pNo r a t i o n • JuneApril 12-25, 17–30, 2014 2014

Big Crowds At Bengal Street Fair Lawsuits Mar Development Of Kingsbridge Armory SPECIAL REPORT By Pamela Segura and David Cruz The 411 On The For over two months, the Kingsbridge Armory has been at the center of ongoing legal drama that can likely LLC, pg. 3 stall the project for months. Plans to turn the landmark Armory into an ice skating facility are now at a stand- still following ongoing disputes between Kevin Parker, the developer of the Kingsbridge National Ice Center (KNIC), and his partners Jonathan Richter, Jeff Spiritos and Marcos Wignell. The suits raise questions over whether development Photo by Adi Talwar is indeed in the works for the Armory, long considered a game changer for the borough. For the past year, Bor- Rinku, a famous singer in Bangladesh, visited Norwood to perform Meet the at the Royal Bengal Street Fair on June 8 at East 204th Street. The Bangladeshi ough President Ruben Diaz Jr. has touted the project to Community of North Bronx along with the Bangladeshi-American Community be an example of the “New Bronx,” which would solidify Candidates For Council hosted the family-friendly fair that attracted a huge crowd. The fair also a renaissance for a borough largely lagging in develop- showcased multicultural music and dance numbers that garnered plenty of ment when compared to the rest of the city. Diaz main- The 13th CD, attention throughout the day. (continued on page 9) pg. 4 Alternatives Sought for Public Access to Reservoir

By Shayla Love serves as much parkland as other boroughs, Assemblyman Jeff Dinowitz grew up and the same reservoir rights as Manhattan across the street from the Jerome Park Res- residents have around Central Park. “What ervoir (JPR). He remembers seeing it filled we’re asking for is very simple,” Klein said. with water and plant life through his win- “Bronxites in this community deserve the dow, and considered it a beautiful asset to his same privileges of open space. Boating, rec- community— one that he wants to give back reation and everything that goes with a park now. reservoir. Here in the Bronx we struggle to Business Beat: The JPR has been empty for years, and maintain all of the open space that we can.” barred from public access longer, mostly due Security Concerns An Escape at the to the work at the Croton Filtration Plant. Opening up the parkland presents ques- BID, pg. 8 The city Department of Environmental Pro- tions of vulnerability, according to the DEP. tection (DEP) recently announced a construc- The agency is largely concerned about secu- tion project at the reservoir that would delay rity for a defunct jogging path on the perim- public access even further. With the scope of eter of a live reservoir. Dinowitz said that the the work unknown, Dinowitz and Senator DEP had originally agreed to the path, and Jeff Klein announced legislation that would then ultimately rescinded the plan because of restore the land around JPR to parkland and fears of terrorism. “Public access was offered Photo by David Greene make it available for recreational use. The after 9/11,” Dinowitz said. “They don’t have A view of the Jerome Park legislation can also offer a concrete date: Jan. a strong case with security. We just want to Reservoir from behind a fence. The 1, 2019. create beautiful parkland. Nobody is saying area is clean and legislation would give the The land is owned by the DEP. The bill it isn’t going to be protected or that people would turn the green space into parkland, can throw things over the fence.” that the “security issues” imply that the under the jurisdiction of the Department of Dinowitz also said that while the reser- Bronx is more dangerous than other bor- Be Healthy: Parks and Recreation (DPR). “The possibility voir’s water is open to an airborne attack, it oughs with public-access reservoirs. “That’s of creating parkland around the reservoir is goes from the JPR into the filtration plant be- totally unacceptable,” he said. Help for LGBTQ, something the city should want to do, not that fore entering New York City’s taps. The lake Clash With Construction? we have to push for,” Dinowitz said. wouldn’t be the end of line. The bill is announced following concern pg. 10 Klein and Dinowitz said that the Bronx de- Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. said (continued on page 13)

Picture your ad here! Advertise in the Norwood News, your local community paper. Call 718-324-4998 for rates. www.norwoodnews.org 2 • June 12-25, 2014 • Norwood News In The Public Interest

VolVol. 27. 27, No. No. 12 10 Advocacy Group Warns of PCB-Tainted Bronx Schools

Norwood News is published By Imani Hall munity members about PCB in bi-weekly on Thursdays by Advocates for Bronx public schools. The EPA agreed to use Mosholu Preservation Corporation schools are looking for answers these meetings to solicit recom- 3400 Reservoir Oval East over the city’s mandated order mendations on how to properly Bronx, New York 10467 to remove a dangerous toxin dispose of PCBs. Those recom- found in public school build- mendations will then be sub- Phone: 718 324 4998 ings. mitted to city officials. Fax: 718 324 2917 As part of its agreement in The lawsuit is one of two E-mail: [email protected] a recent court case, the state cases NYLPI has pursued to Web: www.norwoodnews.org Environmental Protection ensure PCBs are eliminated Agency (EPA) held its first within the school system. In a public meeting on May 28 at separate suit in 2008, NYLPI Publisher CEO, Mosholu the Highbridge Green School represented Naomi Gonzalez, Mosholu Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQ to discuss Polychlorinated Bi- a Bronx mother who sued the Corporation Corporation phenyls (PCBs) contaminating city Department of Education Editor-in-Chief Roberto S. Garcia Bronx schools. The New York over PCB–contaminated caulk David Cruz Lawyers for the Public Inter- in her daughter’s elementary est (NYLPI) sent out a list iden- school, PS 178 in Baychester. &ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ tifying three schools–PS 024 The DOE settled the case Dawn McEvoy Spuyten Duyvil, PS 95, and The with the agreement that the $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH Angelo Patri Middle School– EPA conduct a five-school Photo courtesy Bedford Mosholu Community Association Dawn McEvoy within District 10 in the north- study program in 2010 to ad- Proofreader west Bronx that were laden dress the caulk contamination BMCA Honors Park Advocate Judy Noy with PCB. Nine other schools in public schools and to deter- ELIZABETH QUARANTA, president of Friends of Mosholu 3URGXFWLRQ were listed as possibly contain- mine whether any schools can Parkland (l), receives the annual award for community ser- Neil deMause ing the poisonous substance. be caulk-free going forward. vice on June 4, standing with Barbara Stronczer, president The result showed exceedingly of Bedford Mosholu Community Association (r). The Friends 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV “Schools built between 1958 of Mosholu Parkland is a community group that strives to David Greene, Adi Talwar and 1979 are likely to be PCB high levels of PCBs in public contaminated,” said Christina schools. protect the environment and better the community by cre- Interns Giorgio, a staff lawyer for the “A lot of good work was ating awareness of parkland issues and actively enhancing ShaylaRichard Love, Bucey, Paolo Imani Mossetti, Hall, Justin Shayla McCallum, Love, the parks’ landscape. done during the public study,” andPamela Chelsea Segura, George and Brittney Williams advocacy group. The NYLPI represented said James Hackler, an EPA For display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. New York Communities for representative at the meet- school were indeed open, al- the classrooms,” said John Gor- Change, a group of families ing. Though the EPA said it lowing for cleaner air to waft man, an EPA representative. Support Your from low income and moderate conducted a study that resulted through, subsequently tainting The EPA has conducted out- Community Newspaper! income areas. The suit resulted in “good work,” some have the results of the study. reach efforts into the toxin, so- in the DOE agreeing to remove questioned the results. The Norwood NewsLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE- The EPA said that it opened liciting help from the federal lication and relies upon the support of its PCB-tainted light fixtures from “I’m not sure why the peer the windows because on hotter Housing Urban Development advertisers and readers to produce a quality more than 750 school buildings review didn’t ask about the ap- days during the year, teachers agency. But the key challenge, community newspaper. To support your paper, by Dec. 31, 2016. propriateness of doing air test- typically open the windows. according to Gorman, is find- become a member and receive a subscription In the settlement, the EPA ing with the windows open,” “Generally the windows are ing the experts to take on the for one year. agreed to hold five public meet- Giorgio mentioned. open wider through warm ones problem. “It’s a widespread na- ings, one in every borough, to Don Craft, a former EPA (days) than they are through tional problem and there’s lim- Simply mail check or money order for $40 receive information and feed- employee, claims that during cold ones…we tried to represent ited numbers of people the EPA to: Norwood News, 3400 Reservoir Oval East, back from parents and com- testing, some windows at the normal operating conditions in can work with,” Gorman said. Bronx, NY 10467.

Norwood News is not responsible for typo- graphical errors. Opinions expressed in signed letters and bylined columns represent the sole Upgrades for Sandy-Ravaged Roberto Clemente State Park opinion of the author and are not necessarily those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations By DAVID CRUZ “The water literally went neighborhood, helping to en- ture flooding,” Cuomo said in RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS- State and city officials un- into all our vehicles so we lost sure that the area’s residents, a statement. The project is ex- resent the views of the editor and/or publisher veiled plans to upgrade Ro- almost all our fleet of vehicles,” businesses, and parks are safe- pected to begin sometime this only. The newspaper reserves the right to limit berto Clemente State Park from said park director Frances Ro- guarded from the impact of fu- winter. or refuse advertising it deems objectionable. another Hurricane Sandy-like driguez. “The park took a mas- Advertisements appearing in this paper cannot storm. sive, massive hit.” be used without the written permission of Nor- State Parks Commissioner Electrical lines buried un- Public and Community Meetings wood News. Letters to the editor are subject Rose Harvey, walking along- derneath park grounds were to condensation and editing. Writers should also compromised, forcing COMMUNITY BOARD 7’s General Board meets LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ side Borough President Ruben Anonymous letters are not published but your Diaz Jr. and park engineers, Rodriguez to close the park at Tuesday, June 17 at 6:30 p.m. in the NY Botanical name can be withheld if requested. toured the 26-acre park on sundown since the park lights Garden’s Terrace Room Foyer. Committee meetings June 6 to point out upgrades were inoperable. are held on the following dates at the board office, expected for the borough’s only Much of the storm-proof 229A E. 204th St. at 6:30 p.m., unless otherwise state park. The park was rav- work will take place along the noted: Housing/Land Use & Zoning Committee, Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a aged and most of it destroyed perimeter of the park’s espla- QRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH during Hurricane Sandy, with nade, a 2100-foot wide seawall Wednesday, June 18; Parks & Recreation and Senior Medical Center. its now infamous surge that that sustained most of the dam- Services committees, Wednesday, June 25. Meetings brought a tidal wave from the age. The bulkheads that keep are subject to change. For more information, call Harlem River to the child- the seawall in place were af- (718) 933-5650 or visit bronxcb7.info/calendar. friendly park. fected, as divers determined In many ways the park the metallic structure was THE 52nd PRECINCT COMMUNITY COUNCIL served as a martyr of sorts, punctured like “Swiss cheese,” meets on Thursday, June 19 at 7 p.m. at the protecting the neighboring as Harvey pointed out. Bedford Senior Center at 243 E. 204th St. For more River Towers and Metro-North “This project will rebuild information, call (718) 220-5824. station from Sandy’s punish- an essential coastal protection ing surge. measure for the Morris Heights June 12-25, 2014 • Norwood News • 3 As Quality of Life Returns, Building Owners Still Shrouded in Mystery A SPECIAL REPORT Editor’s Note: This is the first of a Nor- But that endless question continued to “It’s especially frustrating, I think, wood News two-part special report that re- surface: How can tenants hold an elusive when the corporate shells list some low- veals how limited liability corporations of- owner accountable? Purcell has made edu- level super as the principal of the corpo- ten present a great challenge for tenants of cated guesses, sifting through paperwork, ration,” said Sadia Rahman, the attorney a building seeking to know who it is they’re yet there has been no concrete answer. representing tenants at 3094 Villa Ave. paying rent to. Part two of this report, “De- In virtually all instances, limited li- Navigating the housing court sys- termining the Owner,” will be published June ability corporations (LLCs) represent tem often involves professional help, like 26. building owners. The legal maneuver adds Rahman. But in many instances, tenants a layer of protection for building owners are left with no court-appointed attorney By David Cruz and hours of confusion for tenants. In ev- while LLCs have an attorney on hand. As the city grapples to improve the ery legal matter for 3094 Villa Ave., court The identity of the owner, however, is al- housing stock with initiatives to preserve documents privatize the actual names of most never revealed. housing and provide equity, problems are property owners. When it comes to repairs, attorneys at a near end for a four-story building in The tenants’ plight opens the question typically file court papers against the Bedford Park. But a burning question of how much legal protections LLCs re- LLC. But the LLC can flagrantly disre- lingered. ceive and whether it undermines tenants’ gard the obligations under a court ruling, Critical repairs are under way, albeit rights. The practice is quite common-- inspiring a motion for contempt of court. in baby steps for 3094 Villa Ave. The ten- building owners form LLCs to protect per- “In theory, for a motion of contempt ants underwent tough trials—living with Photo by David Cruz sonal assets. The theory helps spur busi- of court, one of the remedies involved is no heat or hot water during two frigid With an evasive and faceless LLC to ness, though names of building owners throwing somebody in jail until they com- winters, nights of hearing rodents scuttle be held accountable, tenants Antoinette are withheld, serving as a key drawback ply,” said Rahman. “If you don’t know along the walls, and the endless question Purcell (left) and Rosa Abreu (right) were for tenants and arguably the court system. who’s in charge of the LLC, it’s really hard that never went answered: Who owns the powerless as 3094 Villa Ave. fell into Finding the identity of an owner is diffi- to hold somebody accountable.” disrepair. building? It’s a mystery that arguably al- cult, with tenants often spending hours HPD, tasked to ensure buildings are lowed the building to fall into disrepair. to withhold rent, instead putting it in es- poring through layers of paperwork. In well maintained, can issue fines against “We’re still clueless on it,” said Antoi- crow, a legal practice, until repairs were some cases the name of the owner is never the landlord. But landlords can indeed nette Purcell, part of a group of tenants made. found. skirt fines since a fine often requires a who’ve fought to regain basic amenities. Several litigation suits soon followed, Principals, representing one or more party to arrive to court. Prison time can The building’s neglect forced the city’s beginning with a foreclosure proce- members of the LLCs, are chosen, though also be ordered against the owner, though Housing Preservation and Development dure involving Blue Whale Villa, a rent in many instances there is no listing of it’s considered a final straw. agency to enroll the building into the strike, action for repairs and a call to re- names on public documents. While ar- “It’s really putting them on notice about Alternative Enforcement Program. The move Christopher Marengo, the court- ticles of incorporation can be purchased all the terrible conditions tenants are liv- AEP, placing derelict properties under its appointed receiver tasked to collect rent from the New York State Department of ing in,” said Rahman. “You can’t throw an care, has used thousands of dollars in tax- from tenants. With a rent strike, Marengo State, the agency that oversees LLCs, bu- LLC in jail. I think that can become frus- payer funds to cover the cost of repairs. claimed he didn’t have enough capital to reaucracy mars the process. A request trating, especially to tenants who want to Lack of repairs was enough for tenants make repairs. must first be filed by mail. hold the invididual accountable.” 4 • June 12-25, 2014 • Norwood News Inquiring Photographer By David Greene This week we asked readers their thoughts on the illegal barbecuing sightings happening along Mosholu Parkway and whether they support a legally designated spot in Norwood.

When they are barbecuing, it We don’t want any barbecuing Barbecuing is against the law. The smoke comes right into my I don’t see anything wrong with doesn’t smell very good inside here. They come, they leave a Mosholu Parkway is a parkway, apartment and I don’t want to barbecuing and if they make a the apartment. You know what I mess, and they don’t pick up not a park, and it is a part of smell someone else’s food. It’s spot, they should do it right here mean? They leave the garbage after themselves. This is our the greenway. So if you want to not right. Barbecuing should not on East 205th Street. barbecue, you need to go to Van be allowed in a residential area. there sometimes and that brings park and they don’t live around Pete Hamilton the rats. It brings a lot of bad here because they come by car. I Cortlandt Park where they have Brenda Taylor things, a lot of problems. They have seen it so many times. They two different designated areas to have other places to barbecue. shouldn’t allow any barbecuing barbecue. When you barbecue This is not the place. anywhere around here because here you damage the roots of Julio Pacheco the trees are here. the trees, you damage the bark Florance Staley and damage the leaves. So all of this affects the health of the land. That’s why we are against it. Sheila Sanchez June 12-25, 2014 • Norwood News • 5 Second Chances Found at Boricua College

By BRITTnEy WILLIAMS Brenda Rodriguez’s life-changing moment came on Feb. 28, 2012. It was then she realized that having a college degree can be vital. Now at 41 years old, Rodriguez is ex- cited to be graduating from Boricua Col- lege with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resources on June 13. She’ll receive the piece of paper that could have made a world of a difference for her if she hadn’t dropped out 10 years ago. Brenda finished Satellite High School in Longwood in 1992 and planned on going to Florida State University on scholarship. But when the fall semester came around, instead of moving into a dorm room, she found herself preparing to become a mother. Two years later she started taking classes at Boricua College, but only stayed for three semesters after getting pregnant with her second child. At this point, her priorities changed. “My thing was to work, support my kids and be the best mom that I can be,” she said. She held a number of jobs and even- tually became an operations manager for a telecommunications company Photo By David Cruz where she stayed for six years until she BoriCuA College viCe President of Admissions and Enrollment Management Abraham Cruz stands with graduating senior received devastating news. The com- Brenda Rodriguez by a banner promoting the school. pany was being taken over by another company and the new administration space that inspires a sense of vision for lege. After graduation, she plans to pur- through,” said Rodriguez. “I’m not only decided to let her go because she lacked students. The building is settled at the sue a master’s degree in business or hu- dreaming, I have a vision where people that piece of paper--a college degree. epicenter of Melrose Commons, a new- man services field at Hunter College. “I like myself can go somewhere to get Realizing that not having a college ly-built affordable housing complex that want to build on the experiences I went help.” education stunted her occupational will belong to the school’s housing port- progress, Rodriguez re-enrolled at Bo- folio once the 30-year lease is satisfied. ricua College. The sacrifices were un- The college offers associate’s, bache- expected--six months of going to classes lor’s, and one-year master’s degree pro- left her nearly penniless, with bills pil- grams and encourages students to take MOSHOLU DAY CAMP ing up. After almost losing her apart- classes at their own pace. Since a lot On Beautiful Lake Cohasset in Harriman State Park ment, not being able to pay for health- of students are working adults, faculty care for her asthmatic son and being members are very understanding and forced to find a temporary home for her help students with creating a schedule children, she almost gave up. that works for them. As Rodriguez searched for a job to “You don’t have to leave the Bronx cover her expenses, she also tried seek- to get a quality higher education,” ing answers over her follies. Every door said Cruz as he described the college’s was shut in her face. Classes were be- marketing campaign. The college fre- coming increasingly difficult, as her quently sets up a table at community MAKING MEMORIES! professors noticed. One professor told events to let people know that an educa- her how much potential she had and tion opportunity is sitting right in their gave her the moral support she needed backyard. to keep going. Classes a re modeled a f ter Ox ford Uni- “I have to say Boricua College has re- versity. Seats are laid out in a circular ally opened the doors for me,” said Ro- fashion, and taught in an intimate set- driguez. Those doors require keys, and ting. As part of the curriculum, teach- the school certainly has those, boasts ers regularly meet with students one Boys & Girls, K–6th Grade • Special Trips 3rd – 6th Grade Abraham Cruz, vice president of Ad- on one to discuss progress and academ- Special Needs Camps • Teen Trailways 7th –10th Grade missions and Enrollment Management ics. Day and night classes are available for the school. “...[O]nce you open it, no- along with parking and an after-school Free and convenient bus service to and from camp each day. body can stop you,” he said. Cruz has program for children of students. Being Activities include: swimming with instruction, boating, sports, art, been a staple in the school for 36 years, affordable, accessible and flexible are drama, crafts, ceramics, nature studies and much more! having held a number of positions. three factors that the college prides it- The college’s founder and president, self on. Dr. Victor G. Alicea, established the “If we change the lives of the adults, school in the ‘70s to concentrate on the lives of the children of the adults Call 718-882-4000 Puerto Rican and Latin students finish- will change as well,” said Cruz. It’s a for a FREE brochure and to schedule a camp tour! ing their college education. The school reason why Boricua College’s key ma- has progressed and is more diverse with jor is Childhood Education. It seems fit- 500 students at its Bronx campus repre- ting. After all, Rodriguez describes in- www.mosholudaycamp.com senting 11 different Hispanic groups as coming students as joining an extended well as African-American and Cauca- family. It’s a reason why her 21-year-old Follow Us sian backgrounds. son is also enrolled at the school. 3450 Dekalb Avenue Bronx, NY 10467 718-882-4000 • www.mmcc.org The bright, cream-colored colored “This is a community itself,” said campus is housed in a 14-story building Rodriguez. She is now president of the with large windows, creating an open student council and works at the col- 6 • June 12-25, 2014 • Norwood News

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NYPL.ORG/SPEAKOUT June 12-25, 2014 • Norwood News • 7 Congressional Primary 2014 - Meet The Candidates

By David Cruz With the Congressional Primary set for June 24, the Norwood News spoke to the top three candidates in the 13th Congressional District over the issues miring the Bronx side of the district. Congressman Charles Rangel: Holding the 13th CD for a Lifetime

In the 40 years Congressman Charles nent House Ways and Means Committee shave those numbers by building afford- Rangel has chaired the seat in the 13th before an ethics scandal hurt a sliver of his able housing using federal tax monies. Congressional District, he’s never had legacy. Rangel considers it an “asterisk” in “The most important thing is to make to look after the Bronx. That was until his storied career. certain that we release the President’s two years back when congressional lines Rangel, the incumbent, has since made opportunity to tie in education with job changed. And in the last two years, Rangel the rounds throughout the borough, or- opportunities,” said Rangel, referenc- looks to do something he’s never done be- ganizing job fairs, taking part in debates, ing President Obama’s Pathways Back to fore: unify two boroughs through its con- and meeting with community leaders. He’s Work Fund. sensus of shared problems. been largely criticized in the borough for As for offering children of illegal im- “This one community is just separated not having a congressional office, a prob- migrants the chance to complete school by a river, but it’s hardly separated by the lem he intends to fix by rolling out a mo- through the federal DREAM Act, Ran- needs for affordable housing, jobs, invest- bile office this year. “Now that we do have gel believes it’s a possibility it will be ad- ment, immigration,” said Rangel, in a the funds to do it, the presence will be now dressed during the summer so long as Tea phone interview with the Norwood News. this year, a mobile office until we can find Party Republicans remain at bay. “There’s not one problem that I can think someone with an attractive offer for office The Democratic Primary election is of that’s not the same as the ones I’ve had space that makes sense,” said Rangel, peg- June 24, the day Rangel will either con- over the years in this district.” ging the federal sequester as a reason for tinue to seal his legacy, or be forced to Congressional district unifier is a new the office shortage. hang it up come Dec. 31. Either way, Ran- term for Rangel, the raspy-voiced legisla- As for the double-digit unemployment gel admits, “There are so many things I’m tor who rose to become chair of the promi- rate in the Bronx, Rangel sees one way to proud of.” Sen. Adriano Espaillat - A Harbinger for Changing Political Tides in the 13th CD

State Senator Adriano Espaillat has been African-American. drive up the local economy by expanding spent the last two years regrouping since But Espaillat, who is Dominican-born, the Empowerment Zone program to the his narrow defeat from Congressman downplayed his ethnic roots in a phone in- northwest Bronx. The program offers tax Charles Rangel in the 13th Congressional terview with the Norwood News, instead cuts of $3,000 per resident employee to job District. For the past two years, Espail- pegging himself as a unifier. creators. Espaillat wants small businesses lat has attempted to perfect his balancing “I’m optimistic that with a new vi- to reap the benefits. act—juggling the tasks of a state senator sion and renewed commitment across the “I will double that tax credit for small representing Manhattan while assimilat- district with a diverse coalition I put to- businesses to be able to hire local folks, ing in the Bronx. His time in the borough gether politically--from Jeff Dinowitz, to and companies will be able to write that has been rewarded, given the endorsement Melissa Mark-Viverito to Carl Heastie to off as a tax credit so that is important,” of the Bronx political machine. Billy Thompson to Ruben Diaz Jr. to Mark said Espaillat in a phone interview with Like his rivals in the race, Espaillat Levine,” said Espaillat, “I believe with all the Norwood News. “Small businesses are has made Bronx appearances. At a recent that I will be taken seriously in Washing- getting very little help.” campaign stop, Espaillat stood outside the ton.” Though not directly citing Rangel, Es- Mosholu Parkway subway station on the 4 Though he didn’t cite specific issues paillat has pegged the failure of immigra- line, assisted by members of the Northwest plaguing the borough, he has seen the tion reform on Congress. Bronx Democrats to hand out pro-Espail- same problems at the Manhattan side of the The race is certainly a litmus test over lat fliers. A young man passed by, took a 13th District engulfing the Bronx side. Of whether the black voting bloc in the 13th flier, and muttered, “That’s the Dominican all the issues Espaillat intends to address Congressional District has been replaced guy.” Espaillat remains the de facto face of on the federal level is the persistent jobless by a multi-cultural shift. “The whole na- change of racial politics in the 13th Con- rate that’s mostly impacted young Bronx- tion is paying attention to this race,” said gressional District, which has historically ites. To fix the problem, Espaillat looks to Espaillat, “if not the world.” Rev. Michael Walrond: A Clergyman Eyeing DC to Inspire Change

Though he’s entered the race with scant gether around shared goals, shared aspira- in the places and for the citizens who have experience from a legislative standpoint, tions, shared dreams to push this district been marginalized the most,” said Wal- Rev. Michael Walrond has arguably spent a forward.” rond. decade preparing a run for Congress. He’s And despite a watered down under- For a more expanded version, go to been mostly on the other side of the 13th standing of the borough, Walrond can eas- www.norwoodnews.org. Congressional District, building a net- ily spout uncomfortable statistics hurting Support for Walrond is apparent, work of followers at First Corinthian Bap- the entire 13th Congressional District. though largely in Harlem. While pro- tist Church in Harlem, where he’s taken He’s used those figures to create solutions Walrond campaign posters are plastered a parish that’s morphed from 300 to 9000 to issues, specifically the Bronx’s 12 per- all over Harlem, considered Walrond and folks in the past decade. The lesson there cent jobless rate, healthcare disparities Rangel’s base, they’re rarely seen around is strength in numbers, a tactic he looks and affordable housing crunch. the Bronx portion of the 13th CD. to employ to resolve key nagging issues in “You can’t talk about poverty without Walrond understands the shifting po- the 13th CD, where roughly 20 percent of the need for jobs,” said Walrond, who’s out- litical climate in the 13th Congressional it rests in Norwood, Kingsbridge Heights, lined a plan that creates jobs by investing District, once a stronghold for African- and portions of Fordham and University in the borough’s infrastructure. “If you in- American lawmakers. Despite this, Wal- Heights. vest a billion dollars, you have the capac- rond proposes there should not be a focus “What I’ve talked about throughout ity on average to create 13,500 jobs in this on racial politics, but a focus on new vital- this campaign is cross-sector collabora- city,” said Walrond, citing a report from ity needed for the district. tion to address the issues that confront the the University of Massachusetts. “To me I think we kind of need a new neighborhood,” said Walrond, later add- Walrond, should he be the victor of the shift and a new direction, persons who ing, “This seat should be held by someone 13th Congressional District, would ensure have not been just great legislators but who’s a visionary, and what does visionary jobs are coupled with training. “We boost great leaders. And I think I’ve shown that mean? Someone who can bring people to- the economy and then you fight for the jobs for the past 18 years of my life.” 8 • June 12-25, 2014 • Norwood News Business Beat - An Escape at the BID

By David Cruz Elvis Herrera works the room at Escape, the newest Latin lounge found in the Jerome- Gun Hill Business Improvement District, at 3489 Jerome Ave. In many ways, he owns the room. He pecks a kiss on a female guest, chuckles with another patron, or spends a few minutes sipping his drink while watch- ing the Puerto Rican Day Parade televised. By all accounts, Herrera is the guy who regulars gravitate toward, while kicking back for a few drinks on the chance to pause on their daily grind. And though his char- ismatic personality is Herrera’s natural in- clination, it’s also the secret to his success. Many may or may not realize they’re talking to the co-owner.

An International Eatery The restaurant’s name is fitting to the lounge. Entering the restaurant feels like one has stepped into a portal to Latin Amer- ica. The front doors stretch out to reveal bamboo-covered walls, iron-wrought light- ing, ceiling fans, bouncy salsa music and white clothed tables that serve as familiar elements to a Latin restaurant. “It’s like a little getaway,” said Herrera, Photo by Adi Talwar who’s received positive feedback over his Elvis Herrera (right) glows as the co-owner of Escape, a new high-end Latin lounge located at 3489 Jerome Ave., in the Jerome- restaurant’s opening. Gun Hill Business Improvement District. The menu pays homage to Latin Ameri- can dishes, 60 altogether, which range from where Latin cuisine is relegated to ready in the BID community well before it formed. Guests have already sampled some of Cuban to Mexican-style fare, all crafted by made. The prices are above average when Richardson and Herrera come from a Escape’s daily attractions that include val- chef Juan Salerno. “We got the best food,” compared to the other Latin eateries pep- network of Bronx restaurateurs that include entine Mondays, comedy Tuesdays, ladies said Herrera, having sampled them all. “I pered around the BID. But they’re justified. Jimmy Rodriguez, the rising restaurant mo- night Wednesdays, karaoke Thursdays and guarantee you that our food is the best.” The food is prepared fresh, with a large por- gul of the Don Coqui franchise. It was Her- TGI Fridays. Over the weekends, brunch is Word of the restaurant’s quality fare has tion of the menu dedicated to seafood en- rera, having once served as a successful loan regularly served. spread throughout the BID, even garnering trees. officer for HSBC, who approved the seed a rave review from Marcia Cameron, the loan to jumpstart Rodriguez’s earlier venue, Restaurant Reborn executive director of the Jerome Gun-Hill A High-End Eatery Jimmy’s Bronx Cafe. The pair soon became BID. “The avocado is to die for!” emphasized best friends, with Rodriguez espousing his Escape is Herrera’s reincarnation of Cameron, following a recent visit. The chur- Herrera, along with longtime friend secrets to good restaurant management to the short-lived eatery of the same name on rasco steak, a boneless cut of beef, is slowly and business partner Harold Richardson, Herrera. Kingsbridge Road and Webb Avenue, which morphing into Escape’s signature dish. opened the doors to Escape in April, after “I just learned the concept of not just became a victim of its own success after the The restaurant is one of the few high-end nine months of building. Richardson, the having good food, but also adding entertain- property owner attempted to raise his rent eateries in the working class community, owner of Norwood Realty, has been a staple ment,” said Herrera. dramatically. He found his second coming through Richardson, who sought to jazz up his property, once known as MD Café. Herrera sought to do things right this time. His first foray into the business began with the X Bar, a nightclub in Fordham rest- ing at the foot of the Major Deegan Express- way. The restaurant closed four years back to make way for a Dallas BBQ. Opening and closing the restaurant served as a teachable moment for Herrera, realizing that an intimate setting with high- end food and personalized customer service proves to be an effective tool for success. “Customer service is key,” said Herrera, ingraining the idiom that “everyone is special.”

Changing Demographics Though business is his forte, Herrera wel- comes new restaurants to spread across the BID. The idea on the outset seems counter- productive, but Herrera views it as a chance to decrease the promotional output by allow- ing the idea of having newly established restaurants to speak for itself. “I would love a Mexican restaurant next to me, an Italian restaurant. We’re bringing Photo by Adi Talwar more people into the community,” said Her- Juan Salerno is the top chef at the Escape lounge, which recently opened at the Jerome-Gun Hill BID, grilling his sizzling rera. “So it’s less work for me.” churrasco steak. June 12-25, 2014 • Norwood News • 9 Delays Surface For Kingsbridge Armory

(continued from page 1) ter and his colleagues volunteered their founded.” tained that his office is “confident that this time hoping to be compensated with a part- A Project in Limbo greatly anticipated project will continue to nership stake. One contribution, according Leases with the EDC have yet to be move forward.” to Badway, involved Richter finding the site signed, putting the project in limbo. Bad- What’s at Stake for the project. Parker, according to Badway, way said that regardless of lawsuits, Parker From a monetary standpoint, the project initially scouted a site in Queens. would still confront hurdles, mainly the would bring $1.3 billion in economic activ- Parker claims his former partners spoke $345 million needed to build the project. ity for the borough over the next 30 years. out of turn when they expressed in a letter to He’s yet to secure the millions of dollars The $345 million project also promised over the New York City Economic Development needed for the project, according to Badway. 700 temporary construction jobs and over Corporation that Parker was too inexperi- He added Richter and Wignell sought financ- 200 permanent jobs that guarantees a $10 enced to bring KNIC to fruition. Contrary ing through the EB5 Program, which gives living wage, a major benefit for a borough to Richter’s statement, Parker insists it was foreign investors Visas if the funds generate where much of its socioeconomic status re- the EDC that suggested the Kingsbridge Ar- American jobs. Brewer insists that Parker mains working poor. mory to be the site for the ice rink in 2011, has the funds needed to begin the project. A Community Benefits Agreement, two years after he conceived the idea for The EDC, serving as the city’s real estate which would be activated once a lease is the ice rink to answer what he saw as an ice broker, has now launched a review of the signed, would offer the surrounding neigh- shortage. project. Kate Blumm, a spokesperson with borhoods $1 million a year allocated to local He assembled a team of advocates, which the EDC, insisted it is not a detriment to the File Photo nonprofits, free ice time for neighborhood included former New York Rangers hockey project. “We are advancing contract negotia- The Kingsbridge Armory stands strong, though still empty. The Armory youth, and 52,000 square feet of community player Mark Messier, to initiate the project. tions to move forward with this transforma- would be the world’s largest ice skating space in the lower level of the castle. Richter soon brought Spiritos and Wignell tive project,” said Blumm. “In our current rink, though lawsuits and internal feuds Legal Issues to the project sometime after that. view, there are no significant delays from are preventing that from moving forward Legal troubles at the Armory surfaced “Our client believes defendants are in- the original timeline.” for now. last week, though the versions from each terfering with the forward progress of this Despite setbacks, many in Kingsbridge side vary. Richter, Wignell and Spiritos project to gain financial benefits to which remain hopeful about the Kingsbridge Na- strip, merchants have waited in anticipa- filed a suit in Manhattan Court on May 22 they are not entitled,” said Parker’s attor- tional Ice Center and what it can signify for tion for a project to occupy the massive against Parker. Their attorney, Ernest Bad- ney, William A. Brewer III. Though Rich- the borough. castle. For Rosa Mejia, who owns La Nueva way, seeks to have his clients assume con- ter did spend time on the project, Parker “Over the last few years, KNIC Partners Cocina, she’ll have to continue driving to trol of KNIC, founded as a limited liability never promised a partnership, according to have been a strong partner in the effort to New Jersey to ice skate. She is depending corporation that Parker’s legal team formed Brewer. redevelop the Kingsbridge Armory,” said on the ice castle to prop up her restaurant. to secure the deal. Parker filed a lawsuit a Brewer continued, “We are confident the Adaline Walker-Santiago, Chair of Commu- “It’s good for business,” she said. week later. court will recognize the rights, responsi- nity Board 7. “While the current situation The parties are expected to meet June “We believe that we’re the only parties in bilities and limitations of the involved par- is unfortunate, we have every confidence 23 at Bronx Supreme Court. Brewer will the project that can get this project done in ties and, in so doing, allow Mr. Parker, the that KNIC will deliver on their promises ask a judge to stop Richter, Wignell and an efficient manner,” Badway told the Nor- Economic Development Corporation, and and that this project will be completed in a Spiritos from continuing to represent wood News. the Bronx community to realize the vision timely manner.” themselves as part of KNIC as the suits In court papers, Badway noted that Rich- upon which this transformative project was Along the Kingsbridge Road commercial progress.

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HowPercentage much ofof Bronx a person’s zip codes with life Vital the highest rates of multiple diseases. Be Healthy 33%68%is dedicatedSource: NYC Dept. to sleep.of Health Stats Umbrella Program to Shelter Bronx LGBTQ Community By Richard Bucey a troubled history with HIV, coupled with The Umbrella Program, an LGBTQ Pro- the highest infection rates in all five bor- gram for Youth and Families that is oper- oughs, according to the Centers for Dis- ated by the Adolescent AIDS Program at ease Control. Montefiore Medical Center, had their offi- The symposium’s topics included man- cial launch on June 5 at the hospital’s Tish- aging the risk of HIV, later transitioning man Center. The program is designed to into presentations and talks over the social offer comprehensive medical care and sup- well-being of LGBTQ youth who have the port for LGBTQ youth, and was developed highest rates of sexual activity, drug/alco- as a response to the disparities in HIV hol use, and depression/suicidal thoughts, healthcare among some Bronx communi- according to surveys presented during Photo courtesy Montefiore Medical Center ties. the forum. The surveys also showed that Presenters at Umbrella’s symposium include (l-r) Justin Toro, outreach Dr. Donna Futterman, working with the once a person’s sexual identity is accepted coordinator, Montefiore Adolescent AIDS Program; Renee Reopell, LMSW, Montefiore Adolescent AIDS Program, opened the pre- by the family, those same risk factors re- Adolescent AIDS Program; Linda Wesp, NP, Montefiore Adolescent AIDS Program; sentation with an overview of the health vert to levels typically seen among adoles- Caitlin Ryan, PhD, director, Family Acceptance Project; Stephen Stafford, director of communications & special projects, Montefiore Adolescent AIDS Program; Jesse Milan, challenges facing LGBTQ youth. When cents. JD, fellow, Altarum Institute; Donna Futterman, MD, director, Montefiore Adolescent asked what she thought the reason was Dr. Caitlin Ryan, Director of the Fam- AIDS Program. for the spike in HIV rates in the past two ily Acceptance Project, spoke of the impor- years, she offered a sobering response. tance of familial acceptance for LGBTQ assumptions about a person’s sexual iden- managing the viral loads of those who are “Sadly, these young people don’t have youth. Ryan outlined techniques for help- tity. “A young lesbian might have a hard HIV positive. Those who are HIV nega- the terrifying image of the epidemic in the ing teens assist their families to accept time articulating to her gynecologist tive are faced with steep costs when try- 1980s. So some people are not afraid of the their sexual identity, emphasizing the im- why she isn’t taking birth control. It is on ing to acquire Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis virus,” said Futterman. “On the flip side, portance of family and retaining cultural healthcare professionals to ask the right (PREP), a medication designed to prevent others are so daunted by the stress of try- identity. “…[W]e (social workers) know questions,” said Ryan. the transmission of the virus. ing to remain negative that they give up that taking adolescents away from their Jesse Milan, a fellow at the Altarum Despite the relatively high rate of HIV and just assume that they will one day con- families is not the solution,” said Ryan. Institute healthcare consulting nonprofit, in the Bronx, Futterman remains opti- tract the virus. We simply need to ramp up She added that it is important to work in concluded the symposium with a pre- mistic. “The Bronx is in the lead in a lot our prevention efforts every five years for conjunction with cultural institutions sentation entitled “Ending the HIV Epi- of ways. Many local organizations and each new generation.” such as churches rather than fight them. demic among Young Gay Men.” In it, he communities, not only Montefiore, have These prevention efforts are espe- The presentation also noted that social reported that New York City has excellent stepped up to address this pressing is- cially important in the Bronx which has workers and doctors should never make programs that offer cheap treatment for sue.” June 12-25, 2014 • Norwood News • 11

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(continued from page 1) be completed by 2019, the date of access over a new capital project to repair the that the bill would grant. east wall of the reservoir. At the May “We came up with something far off 27 meeting of the Filtration Monitoring enough to be realistic,” Dinowitz said, Committee (FMC), the bill had not been in reference to their 2019 deadline. “It announced yet, and public access was the couldn’t be tomorrow because it would issue at hand. take time to do all this. The work on the Karen Argenti, an activist who op- wall is going to happen inside the reser- posed the plant for decades, asked the voir, and we want the outside of it. I don’t questions that clouded the communi- believe that the work on the wall is in any ty’s minds when the work was first an- way going to conflict with what we want nounced. “Why wasn’t this work done to do. They may try to stop it and they simultaneously to the filtration plant?” may succeed. We’re going to work hard she asked. to get it done.” “I don’t know the answer to that,” Optimistic for City Cooperation Associate Commissioner Matthew Ma- Dinowitz said he is hopeful that the honey said. new administration under Mayor Bill de “This is a major problem,” Argenti Blasio will be willing to work with the said. “We want to walk around the reser- community, and grant it what it wants voir. We were promised that we were go- and needs. He first wanted to introduce ing to have access.” the bill in the 1990s but said it “lan- Bob Fanuzzi, another activist who guished.” closely followed the filtration plant saga, Diaz is confident in a smooth le- had been planning a pilot access program, gal process as well. He called it a “prime as promised by the public access report example of how good government can of 2010. “The reason why this is anger- work, when everybody is working to- ing everybody is because it significantly gether.” As an area that’s long been idle put off the access which was contingent and inaccessible to the community, Diaz on the completion of the plant,” he said. called for a renewed focus on the JPR. “That was the deal we’ve been working “Many folks have fought so we can give under. We feel that the DEP changed the this park back to the community and deal right when it was about to expire.” to have access to it,” he said. “We heard If the legislation is successful, the from not just people in this community, community may not have to wait on the but from Bronxites abroad and everyone capital project to be completed, to gain can agree we need public access to the Je- access. The DEP has not released an ex- rome Park Reservoir.” pected completion date for the east wall. Additional reporting by David Greene. Dinowitz suspects construction will not

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Onstage • The Friends of Van Cortlandt Park presents Editor’s Pick the 4th celebration of the Seven Wonders of • The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kings- VC Park, June 12 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Events bridge Rd., presents Music by the NY Opera include hands-on activities as well as a tour Celebrate Summer at the Oval Forum, June 14; and A Musical Tribute to the around the lake. Finger foods and refreshments Music of Motown, June 21; both at 2:30 p.m. will be served. Meet at the VC Golf House (enter The public is invited to Make Music New York’s free music festival celebrating For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46/57 park at Bailey Avenue and VC Park South). For the first day of summer, June 21 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Williamsbridge Oval. Events or visit www.nypl.org. more information and to RSVP, call (718) 601- include West African drumming by Bronx Community Charter School’s graduat- • The Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., of- 1460 or visit [email protected]. ing 5th graders, and rock by Fort Indy at 5 p.m., in front of the Rec Center. For more fers Songs From the Beatles to Patsy Cline, • Monroe College, 2501 Jerome Ave. holds information, or to add to the show, call (646) 938-0557. June 21 at 2 p.m. For more information, call an Allied Health Career and Internship (718) 882-8239. Expo, speciﬁ cally for Allied Health and Nursing • Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, students and graduates, to meet with potential 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W. presents A Glorious employers, June 24 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., in Tribute to the King of Pop, honoring Michael King Hall’s Mintz Auditorium. Refreshments will Jackson in a multi-media and live performance, be served at 11 a.m. For more information, call June 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. (tickets are $25 to (646) 393-8613 or (914) 740-6480. $45; $10/under 12). For more information, call • The COVE, 3418 Gates Place, presents (718) 960-8833. Shotokan Karate Do world champion Abdul • Bronx Arts Ensemble presents Three Billy “Aziz” Shihan, Saturdays from 1 to 3 p.m. for Goats Gruff, June 15 at 1 and 2:30 p.m., at the ages 5 and up, to learn to defend and protect NY Botanical Garden, ($6). Program is subject yourself ($20/month; $45/month for family of to change. For more information, call (718) 601- 3); Zumba Classes, Fridays 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. 7399. ($20/month); and Health and Beauty Work- shops, 3 to 6 p.m. for ages 13 and up ($20/ month; 10 slots only), to learn hair extension Events techniques. For more information, call Starr or • LaSorsa Auto Group, 3510 Webster Ave., Michelle at (718) 405-1312. will host a free Dad’s Night Out, June 14 from • The Fordham Road BID presents a free 5 to 9 p.m. Events include BBQ-ing, rock climb- outdoor movie, “Frozen,” on June 20 at 8:30 ing, silent auction, and World Cup Games. For p.m. at Muller Park and Plaza at East Fordham more information, call (718) 283-4081. Road and Creston Avenue. Bring a chair or a

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Se Habla Español Prices incl all costs to consumer except tax, title & dmv fees. ‡Low APR fi nancing for 36 mos for qualifi ed buyers on all Certified GM pre-owned vehicles, subject to primary lenders approval. Subject to primary lenders approval. Leases closed end for 10k mi/yr at 25¢/mi, 12k mi/yr at 15¢/mi (‘14 Outlander) thereafter. Leases on approved credit for qual buyers thru US Bank. Lessee resp for excess wear/tear/maint/insur/excess mileage. Ttl Pymts/Resid; ‘14 Cruze= $3081/$11,182, ‘14 Outlander Sport=$4644/$13,965. Due at sign=$0 1st mo pymt + $0 sec dep + $1999 down + $595 bank fee ($495 bank fee for Outlander) ^CCR rebate must have Tier S approval thru Ally Bank. VValid only for customers w/ a current 1999 or newer non-gm lease (i.e., non-Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, or Saturn) passenger car or light duty truck lease contract are eligible for this offer, not required to terminate current non-GM contract. *Loyalty Rebate only good on ‘13 or ‘14 Outlander Sport, must be reg owner or spouse living at the same address, must be current Mitsubishi owner. Used cars sold cosmetically as is. Pics for illust purp only. Not resp for typos/equip errors. Offers cannot be combined w/any other adv specials. +Based on EPA hywy milage. See dealer for details. Offer expires 3 days after pub. June 12-25, 2014 • Norwood News • 15 blanket. For more information, call (718) 562- Thursdays at 3 p.m.; Wii Program: Tuesdays 2104. at 3 p.m.; Beaded Jewelry at 11 a.m.: June 12 Neighborhood Notes • Wave Hill, a Bronx oasis at 675 W. 252nd and 26 (bring your own materials; advance in- St. in Riverdale, offers Family Arts Projects: person registration required); and Introduction Mark Twain Garden Adventure, to join a scav- to Belly Dance: June 14 at 3:30 p.m. Children Pride HIV/AIDS the public to visit the park, June 12 from 6:30 enger hunt and make a booklet and adventure can enjoy Toddler Story Time at 10:30 a.m.: Awareness Day to 8:30 p.m. Events include hands-on activi- story, June 14 and 15; and Such Are Snakes, June 12 and 19; and Read Aloud Story Time ties and a tour around the lake. Meet at the to learn about snakes and make one from re- at 4 p.m.: June 16 and 23. Teens/young adults Montefiore Medical Center’s AIDS Cen- VC Golf House (enter park at Bailey Avenue cycled materials, then listen to singer at noon, can attend film: “Back to the Future,” June 14 at ter, 111 E. 210th St., holds its annual PRIDE and VC Park South). For more information, June 21 and 22; both in WH House from 10 1 p.m.; and So Fresh and So Clean: To make HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Saturday, call (718) 601-1553. a.m. to 1 p.m. Also scheduled is Nature Pre- deodorant and body wash and learn about per- June 21 from noon to 5 p.m. Events include sentation: Snakes of NY, to see them live and sonal hygiene (materials are provided), June 18 at free counseling, testing and blood pressure handle skins and other artifacts (call ext. 251 to 3 p.m. Foreigners can attend English Conver- screenings, educational materials on HIV, BronxNet Internships reserve), June 22 at the WH House 1 and 2 sation Program: (intermediate level, free), Tues- musical performances, special guest speak- BronxNet has openings for sum- p.m. Additional event includes: The Sunroom days 6:30 to 8 p.m., June 17 and 24. For more ers, and free raffles. For more information, mer internships to its public access Project offers a series of events through Nov. information, call (718) 882-8239. call (718) 231-3296 ext. 23 or 21. television program OPEN 2.0 for 20 (call for a detailed schedule). Grounds ad- • The Jerome Park Library, 118 Eames high school students. For more in- mission is free Saturdays until noon all year, Place (near Kingsbridge Road), offers for kids: formation, call (718) 960-8769 or and free until noon Tuesdays in June. Glyndor Active Health at 4 p.m.: (ages 5 to 12), yoga NCB Public Forum [email protected]. Gallery tours take place Tuesdays and Satur- and zumba, June 13; Toddler Story Time at North Central Bronx Hospital, 3424 Kos- days at 2 p.m.; garden walks are held Tues- 11 a.m.: (ages 18 to 36 months), June 18 and 25; suth Ave., 17th floor, holds a public forum on days and Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays and Children Sing and Celebrate Around Wednesday, June 18 at 6:30 p.m. on updates MMCC Day Camp at 2 p.m. from the Perkins Visitor Center. For the World: (ages 3 to 12), sing, make music, concerning the return of maternity services Visits more information and a schedule of events, and play instruments, June 20 at 3:30 p.m. For this fall. Light refreshments will be served. call (718) 549-3200. adults: Exploring Cultures: History of Base- For more information, call (917) 213-6028. Mosholu Montefiore Commu- ball, June 19 at 2 p.m. For teens/young adults: nity Center offers tours of its sum- Teen Science: June 12 at 4 p.m.; and film: Career Workshop mer day camps at Harriman State Library Events June 19 at 4 p.m. For foreigners: English Con- Park on Saturday, June 14 at 1 p.m. versation Groups at noon: June 16 and 23. Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj presents a To register and for more informa- • The Bronx Librar y Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge For more information, call (718) 549-5200. Career Workshop, June 18 from 1 to 4 p.m. tion and trip details and costs, call Rd., presents programs for adults including: MS at the Bronx House, 990 Pelham Pkwy., (718) 882-4000. Word 2010 for Beginners: June 19 at 2 p.m. So. Learn about interviewing skills, job (advance in-person registration required). Chil- HAPPY FATHER’S DAY TO searches, resume building/writing, cover dren can enjoy Preschool Story Time at 11 letters, and more. Bring copies of your re- Tribute To Ibrahim Gonzalez a.m.: June 12, 19 and 26; Toddler Play Time at ALL OUR DAD READERS! sume. RSVP by June 16. For more informa- Epiphany Lutheran Church, 3061 noon: June 12, 19 and 26; Family Time: June tion, call (718) 409-0109. Bainbridge Ave., presents a Tribute 14 at 11 a.m.; and Fish Book Making: June 19 to Ibrahim Gonzalez, June 13 from 7 at 4 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579- NOTE: Items for consideration may be mailed to our p.m. to 9p.m. Events include a Latin 4244/46/57 or visit www.nypl.org. office or sent to [email protected], and Tour Van Cortlandt Lake Jazz concert, prayers, and a tribute • The Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., of- should be received by June 16 for the next publication date video. For more information call (718) fers for seniors and adults: Knitting Circle: of June 26. The Friends of Van Cortlandt Park invites 652-6839. 16 • June 12-25, 2014 • Norwood News

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