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ORWOODQ EWSQ NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 Vol 31, No 4 • Pu b l i s h e d By Mo s h o l u Preservation Co r p o r a t i o n • Fe b r u a r y 15-28, 2018 ORWOODQ EWSQ NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 FREE INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: LOADS OF LOVE: YOUR STATE OF THE BRONX PG. 4 LAUNDRY LOVE IN BLOOM | PG. 8 SHELTER PLAN SHIFTS

The 411 on Norwood’s 311 Complaints TO JEROME AVE. pg 3 DHS scraps plans to build shelter at Sam’s Carpeting across PS/MS 20

New Chapter At Mosholu Library pg 5

Monte Hails Heart Month | pg 11

Photo by Adi Talwar THIS BUILDING AT 3600 Jerome Ave. (pictured) will soon house an all-male homeless shelter that will accommodate some 200 men.

By DAVID CRUZ Avenue. will indeed be placed at 3600 City facing record-breaking The New York City Depart- But while the news will Jerome Ave., a 29,275-square- homelessness and angry re- ment of Homeless Services likely be welcoming to par- foot property near East 213th sistance from communities, (DHS) announced it plans to ents of the southern Norwood Street. A consensus was typical of most neighbor- contract with a nonprofit to school, the new location has reached between DHS and hoods, Banks saw this as a open a homeless shelter at drawn concerns from par- community stakeholders af- win, crediting the commu- a two-story property on the ents at a school adjacent to ter months of brainstorming nity for scouting alternate edge of Norwood. The news the new site. over alternative sites, a point sites. will likely be welcoming to In a joint Op-Ed submitted Banks emphasized as a pro- “Rather than saying not- parents who worried a shelter to the Norwood News, DHS ductive step in reaching a in-my-backyard, they did would be housed diagonally Commissioner Steven Banks middle ground when it comes their homework, they advo- pg 14 across PS/MS 20 on Webster revealed that the new shelter to shelters. With New York (continued on page 15) 2 • February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST Vol. 31, No. 4 Vol. 27, No. 10 NorwoodVol. 27,News 27, No. No.is 10published 10 bi-weekly on Thursdays by Special Election Date Set for Vacant 80th Assembly Seat MosholuNorwoodNorwood Preservation NewsNews is Corporation ispublished published (MPC) 3400 Reservoir Oval East Governor Andrew Cuomo has to the polls. A check of the numbers the 18th Council District in Sound- Norwoodbi-weekly onNews Thursdays is published by bi-weeklyBronx, New on ThursdaysYork 10467 by marked April 24 as the day a special showed 14,386 Norwood residents view. Well before Cuomo made the Mosholubi-weekly Preservation on Thursdays Corporation by MosholuPhone: Preservation 718 324 4998Corporation election will be held for the vacant voted when Gjonaj won re-election in announcement, Assemblyman Luis Mosholu3400Fax: PreservationReservoir 718 324 Oval 2917 EastCorporation 3400 Reservoir Oval East 80th Assembly District seat that cov- 2016 compared to 8,039 votes cast in Sepulveda of the 87th Assembly Dis- E-mail: [email protected], Reservoir New York 10467Oval East Bronx, New York 10467 ers Norwood. Morris Park. trict, announced he would vie for the Web.:Bronx, www.norwoodnews.org New York 10467 Phone: 718 324 4998 The seat was held by Mark Gjonaj, Some possible names floated to seat. Fax: 718 324 2917 Publisher Phone: 718 324 4998 a Democrat, who relinquished his fill his seat include Gjonaj’s former The election is for one of 11 seats E-mail: [email protected]: 718 324 4998 Mosholu PreservationFax: 718 324 Corporation 2917 seat after he was voted Councilman chief of staff, Nathalia Fernandez currently up in the State Legislature. Web:Fax: www.norwoodnews.org 718 324 2917 E-mail: [email protected] for the East Bronx’s 13th Council and Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez, a vet- The special elections are scheduled ExecutiveE-mail: [email protected] Director of MPC Melissa Web:Cebollero www.norwoodnews.org District in November. The 80th As- eran political operative whose ré- three weeks after the Legislature is Web: www.norwoodnews.org DirectorPublisher of MPC CEO, Mosholu sembly District covers virtually all sumé includes serving as the former expected to pass the budget. JenniferMosholu Tausig Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQ of Norwood, and the Bronx neighbor- secretary of state for New York. Meantime, the 80th Assembly Dis- Corporation Corporation PublisherEditor-in-Chief, NorwoodCEO, News Mosholu hoods of Morris Park, Pelham Park- Cuomo has also called a special trict office, 1126 Pelham Pkwy. So., PublisherEditor-in-Chief RobertoCEO, S. Mosholu Garcia MosholuDavid Cruz, Preservation [email protected] 3UHVHUYDWLRQ way, and Allerton. Though the 80th election for the vacant senate seat is open with special hours—10 a.m. MosholuDavid Cruz Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQ CorporationAccounts Receivable Corporation Assembly District draws much of once held by Ruben Diaz Sr., who to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. To Corporation Corporation its strength from Morris Park, Nor- represented the 32nd Senate District reach the office, call (718) 409-0109. Editor-in-ChiefDawn&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ McEvoy Roberto S. Garcia Editor-in-Chief Roberto S. Garcia wood typically sees more voters head before he was voted Councilman for —David Cruz DavidProofreaderDawn Cruz McEvoy JudyDavid$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH Noy Cruz Dawn McEvoy &ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJInterns Sofi&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJProofreader a Mahairas, Niall Ridgley, Mary Mellon A Warning From a Norwood Activist: Pick Up After Your Dog DawnJudy McEvoy Noy RegularDawn McEvoy Contributors If you’re caught not picking up af- The list of sightings where San- to clean up after their pooches who 3URGXFWLRQ $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOHDavid Greene, Adi Talwar Dawn$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOHNeil McEvoydeMause ter your dog in front of Sheila San- chez has noticed an increase include do their business on public streets. Dawn5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV McEvoy chez, expect to hear from her. Villa Avenue near St. Philip Neri Fines go for $250 if an owner fails to Proofreader ForDavid Display Greene, Adi Talwar Advertising “I yell at them. I’ll do things, like, Church, Williamsbridge Oval Park, clean up after their dog. Exceptions JudyProofreader Noy CallJudyInterns Noy (718) 324-4998 ‘Hey you! Do you need a bag?’” San- and Decatur Avenue between East are made for people requiring a see- 3URGXFWLRQShayla Love, Paolo Mossetti, Justin McCallum, chez said in a phone interview with Gun Hill Road and East 209th Street. ing eye dog to get by. Police haven’t Neil3URGXFWLRQand deMause Chelsea George SupportNeil deMause Your the Norwood News. The issue became a central topic placed a high priority on the infrac- 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUVCommunityFor display advertising, Newspaper! call (718) 324-4998. Sanchez, president of Friends at Community Board 7’s Long Term tion, which has to be observed by an David5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV Greene, Adi Talwar The Norwood News is a not-for-profi t publication of Williamsbridge Oval volunteer Planning Committee on Jan. 31. Lo- officer. DavidSupport Greene, Your Adi Talwar Internsand relies upon the support of its advertisers and readers to produce a quality community group and a rumored candidate for retta Watson, committee chair, was “I know a couple of people who got ShaylaInternsCommunity Love, Paolo Newspaper! Mossetti, Justin McCallum, newspaper.ShaylaThe Norwood Love, To PaoloNews supportLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE Mossetti, your paper, Justin become-McCallum, the 80th Assembly District, has no- outraged over dog owners’ lax ap- a ticket, and they’ve stopped,” San- anda member Chelsea and George receive a subscription for one andlication Chelsea and relies George upon the support of its ticed an uptick in residents not pick- proach toward maintenance. chez said. year.advertisers and readers to produce a quality ing up after their canines. It’s illegal for a dog owner not —David Cruz Forcommunity display advertising, newspaper. To call support (718) your 324-4998. paper, SimplyForbecome display mail a member advertising,check and or moneyreceive call (718)a order subscription 324-4998. for $40 to: Norwoodfor one year. News, 3400 Reservoir Oval East, SupportBronx, NY 10467. Your Support Your Cohen: Charging Station Needed in Norwood CommunitySimply mail check Newspaper! or money order for $40 NorwoodCommunityto: Norwood News News, is Newspaper! 3400not responsible Reservoir Oval for East, By NIALL RIDGLEY “I believe a number of locations, both The Norwood News reported on a re- ThetypographicalBronx, Norwood NY 10467. Newserrors. LVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE Opinions expressed- in licationThe Norwood and relies News uponLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE the support of its - Councilman Andrew Cohen has re- public and private, would be feasible for lated proposal for a charging station for signedlication lettersand relies and uponbylined the columns support ofrepresent its advertiserstheNorwood sole opinion News and isreaders of not the responsible author to produce forand typo area- quality not quested that the future come to Norwood EV charging. They include the parking EMS ambulances to be located in Kings- communitynecessarilyadvertisersgraphical errors. newspaper.andthose readersOpinions of Mosholu To expressedto supportproduce Preservation in your signed a quality paper, through a proposed electric vehicle (EV) lot for the Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course bridge. This station was proposed as part communityletters and bylinednewspaper. columns To represent support the your sole paper, becomeCorporation a member or Montefi and receiveore Medical a subscription Center. charging hub. and a municipal garage located on Jerome of a citywide plan to help EMS ambulances Editorialsbecomeopinion aof represent memberthe author andthe arereceiveviews not necessarily of a the subscription editor for thoseone year.of Mosholu Preservation Corporations Cohen drafted a proposal for Mayor Bill Avenue, just north of East Gun Hill Road, cut emissions by plugging in instead of only.for one The year. newspaper reserves the right to RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHSlimit or refuse advertising it deems - de Blasio on Jan. 10 having had his constit- among others,” wrote Cohen in his letter keeping their engines running, as EMS resent the views of the editor and/or publisher Simplyobjectionable. mail check Advertisements or money order appearing for $40 Simplyonly. The mail newspaper check or reserves money the order right tofor limit $40 uents in the 11th Council District express to de Blasio. buses must remain on to keep medicine re- to:in thisNorwood paper News, cannot 3400 be used Reservoir without Oval East, or refuse advertising it deems objectionable. theto: Norwoodwritten permission News, 3400 of Reservoirthe Norwood Oval East, interest to be part of de Blasio’s plan to Cohen specifically details Van Cort- frigerated. Both the EMS charging stations Bronx,Advertisements NY 10467. appearing in this paper cannot News.Bronx, LettersNY 10467. to the editor are subject to be used without the written permission of Nor- develop 100 new EV fast charging stations landt Park, the city’s third largest park, and the proposed EV hubs come as part of condensationwood News. Letters and editing.to the editor Writers are subject should across the city in 2018. Cohen believes the as being an attractive location, as drivers a larger de Blasio initiative that targets re- Norwoodinclude their News affi is liation not responsible or special forinterest typo- if graphicalNorwoodto condensation errors.News andisOpinions not editing. responsible Writersexpressed should for intypo signed- northwest Bronx has ample locations con- could enjoy the grounds while charging ducing the city’s greenhouse emissions by any.graphicalLQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ Anonymous errors. Opinionsletters are expressed not published in signed lettersbut your and name bylined can columns be withheld represent upon the sole ducive to charging hub installation. their vehicles. 80 percent by 2035. lettersAnonymous and bylined letters are columns not published represent but your the sole opinionrequest.name canof the be withheldauthor andif requested. are not necessarily thoseopinion of ofMosholu the author Preservation and are not Corporations necessarily RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHSthose of Mosholu Preservation Corporations- resentRU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS the views of the editor and/or publisher- Public and Community Meetings Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a only.resent The the newspaper views of the reserves editor and/or the right publisher to limit only.QRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH The newspaper reserves the right to limit or refuseMedical advertisingCenter. it deems objectionable. COMMUNITY BOARD 7 will hold its general board meeting at the Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Advertisementsor refuse advertising appearing it deems in this objectionable. paper cannot Rd. inside the auditorium, on Feb. 20 at 6:30 p.m. CB7 committee meetings are held on the following dates at the beMosholuAdvertisements used without Preservation theappearing written Corporation inpermission this paper is a of non-cannot Nor- board office, 229 E. 204th St., at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted: Executive Committee meets on Feb. 15; Eco- profibe used t support without corporation the written permissionof Montefi oreof Nor- wood News. Letters to the editor are subject nomic Development Committee meets Feb. 27; Community Relations & Long Term Planning Committee meets on Medicalwood News. Center. Letters to the editor are subject to condensation and editing. Writers should Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m.; and Website Acknowledgment and Media Committee meets on Feb. 28. For more information, to condensation and editing. Writers should LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ call the board office at (718) 933-5650. AnonymousLQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ letters are not published but your nameAnonymous can be letters withheld are if not requested. published but your name can be withheld if requested. The 52ND PRECINCT COMMUNITY COUNCIL meets on Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. at Sister Annunciata Senior Center, 243 E. 204th St. For more information, call the 52nd Precinct Community Affairs Office at (718) 220-5824.

Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a QRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUHMosholu Preservation Corporation is a MedicalQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH Center. Medical Center. February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News • 3 The 411 on 311 in Norwood Noise- and building-related complaints top list of frequent 311 calls By DAVID CRUZ When it came to the more than 15,000 complaints logged to 311 in the Norwood section of the Bronx, tenants at 3525 Deca- tur Ave. had the most contact with the data- gathering system in 2017, with the bulk of complaints caused by noise. Those were some of the findings de- termined in an analysis by the Norwood News which reviewed 311 calls filed in Nor- wood last year. Some questions answered included how long it took a 311 complaint to close, the top 10 buildings with the most 311 complaints in Norwood, what days were most popular to open and close a 311 complaint, and the agencies frequently tasked to respond to 311 calls in Norwood. The Norwood News spent several weeks reviewing publicly available data on New York City’s Open Data website, filling in addresses by cross-referencing geographic coordinates, filling in zip codes according to intersections, and correcting spelling errors. The system was created in 2003 to de- termine the types of quality of life issues im- pacting New York City neighborhoods. In Norwood, building and noise complaints ranked highest in 2017. With an aging housing portfolio and lifestyles that Housing, Preservation and Development Decatur Ave., a block and a half south of rence inside the building. He pointed to the aren’t exactly aligned, the two complaints (HPD) handled 115 complaints, with most 3525 Decatur Ave. Of the 146 registered 311 third floor, where one tenant has consis- have consistently stood at the top with close of them filed in January 2017. In all, the calls there, 37 have remained open as of tently blasted music at several instances to 12,000 complaints filed in 2017, compris- building fared well when it came to the com- press time. The bulk of the open complaints at night. A review of data compiled for the ing nearly 80 percent of all 311 calls made plaints handled, according to the data. Of were filed on Dec. 27 and forwarded to HPD, building showed 311 complaints logged at in Norwood. the 352 complaints filed, 99 percent of them, with issues ranging from poor plumbing to all hours of the day. October saw the most That trend was no different at 3525 De- or 347, were handled right away. a defective cabinet. complaints, with 74. But just because a catur Ave., a six-story building just off East While 3525 Decatur Ave. stood as the Among the longest wait times happened building had received the most 311 calls, Gun Hill Road. There, 224 noise-related #1 building with the most 311 complaints, at 3572 DeKalb Ave. There, residents waited doesn’t make it a badly maintained build- complaints were filed and forwarded to the it didn’t have the most open 311 cases older 196 days before the agency closed the case for ing. NYPD. The New York City Department of than 30 days. That distinction went to 3366 an issue involving pests. In a statement, Ju- “It’s a well-maintained building but liet Morris-Antoine, an HPD spokesperson, then you have tenants that sometimes called the time frame of the complaint a rar- overdo it on the noise,” said Melendez. “I ity. “The apparent time frame for this com- got one that sometimes about 3 or 4 o’clock plaint from open to closed is a bit of a one-off [in the afternoon] he blasts the music, but here. The conditions were already noted in only for a couple of hours. I can tolerate the system as an open violation of which the that.” owner was notified,” Morris-Antoine said. Another tenant who only went by An- The longest wait time happened at 3307 nie said noise happens above her apart- Parkside Pl., where a complaint on a curb cut ment but calling 311 to at least report it has took 267 days to be corrected. The complaint never crossed her mind. was forwarded to the New York City Depart- Dsmonaisha Henry, another tenant, ment of Buildings, which issued a violation. said noise issues come second to the lack While tenants at 3525 Decatur Ave. of hot water her family endures daily. Still, praised the building’s upkeep, many agreed Henry noted that these problems are fixed loud music was the bane of their quality of relatively quick. life. Of the total complaints at the building, “The water turns mostly cold in the the bulk of those complaints fell on Fridays morning and at the night,” Henry said. with 73 cases filed, according to the analysis. “Once we put in a complaint the [hot] water Saturdays were the favorite when it came to turns back on.” having 311 cases closed, with 59 cases reviewed and closed by various city agencies. Editor’s Note: A large dataset of 311 Photo by David Cruz Angel Melendez, a 20-year resident, said calls filed in Norwood can be found on 3525 DECATUR AVE. saw 352 complaints registered to 311 in 2017, the most of any incessantly loud noise was a frequent occur- www.norwoodnews.org. building in Norwood, according to an analysis by the Norwood News. 4 • February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER By DAVID GREENE Ahead of Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.’s State of the Borough speech on Feb. 22, this week we asked readers what they think is the current state of the Bronx

I haven’t really seen too much I think the state of the borough is This area continues to fall behind I think things are going good. There I would say I think it’s improved a improvement, to be honest with not so good. They have to do a lot year after year. The subways are is a lot of violence going on around little bit, but I think we need to fi x a you. Maybe it’s a little better, they’ve of building and a lot of fi xing things, running by candlelight and the buses here, but it’s not as bad as it was lot of things in our neighborhood. opened more businesses in the like the bridges and roads. The roads are worse than the subways, yeah. before. It’s more random, not all the The crime rate is a little high, area and that brings more jobs. have to be redone all over the Bronx. The subways are almost completely time. I think the subways are good, I unemployment’s a problem and I’m Housing is still a big problem too, If anything is going good in the Bronx, closed down at night, it’s non-existent use the subway all the time and think mostly really very scared about ICE you have two families living in a two- I don’t know about it. So we have to after [midnight]. I work night and it’s a great form of transportation to and their immigration enforcement in bedroom apartment, which causes hope for the best. We need funding in early morning shifts and you wait 30 use. Things are defi nitely better than our communities. I’m a Dreamer to overcrowding. When they distribute the Bronx and the mayor has to ask minutes for one train. Crime is starting they were last year. be honest and I’m attending Lehman the funds, we get what trickles down for more money from the governor to rise up again and the neighborhood Kaylin Marie College and every night I have to and the Bronx doesn’t get much--it and the federal government. The city is starting to change. There’s less Bedford Park live in the shadow of the Bronx, don’t. I believe they’re cutting more is not getting its fair share. police present; you never see foot because I don’t know what’s going to funds than anything and the kids John Singleton patrols and only once in a while do happen. We need to make a lot more don’t have any places to go. The Van Cortlandt Park South you see a car patrol the area. I would improvements and work together as a borough president just shows up at not go out after 8 o’clock anymore. community. different events, but he’s not really It’s that bad. The sun is out, that’s Blas Almonte doing anything to help the people. about as good as it gets here in Norwood David Johnson Bedford Park. Parkchester Robert O’Shea Bedford Park St. Patrick’s Home Rehabilitation & Health Care Center

“Where it all began”

 Short-Term Rehabilitation and  Long-Term Care  Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy  Daily Mass in our Chapel  Restorative Nursing  Wound Care  Therapeutic Recreation  Memory Program  Palliative Care  Pastoral Care 66 Van Cortlandt Park South, Bronx, NY 10463  Psychological Services  Gift Shop & Coffee Shop Tel: 718-519-2800  And many other services... Fax: 718-304-1817 www.stpatrickshome.org

Carmelite Sisters Serving the Aged Since 1929 FACEBOOK.COM/STPATRICKSHOME February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News • 5 New Chapter Norwood Welcomes New Children’s Librarians

By MARY MELLON Figueroa, who plays the ukulele With vacancies for two children’s and is passionate about hand puppets, librarians at the Mosholu Library fi- read enthusiastically to a small gath- nally filled, parents formally met the ering of children and their parents. new staffers who have been at the Afterwards, she and Loucks handed helm for the last month. out free tote bags and American Girl Nicole Figueroa and Katie Loucks Doll books to attendees and also super- were brought on to the branch at 285 vised craft activities. With Valentine’s E. 205th St. off Perry Avenue in Janu- Day on their mind, some children dec- ary. Figueroa, who previously worked orated construction paper hearts with in Riverdale, said one of the most re- positive sentiments about the library, warding parts of her job was having while others filled in coloring papers. children come in with a love of literacy The event capped months-long un- and the desire to read. She described certainty on when librarians would Norwood warmly. “I really like the be hired. The previous two had left community. It’s really diverse and their job back in the summer, creating everyone is very vibrant,” Figueroa a rare situation for a library heavily said. utilized by parents. With manpower Loucks, who worked at a library in scaled back, operating the children’s Wisconsin prior to taking the position side of the library was temporarily on at Mosholu Library, felt similarly. She hold. This put several weekly services is now involved with STEM, a free pro- on hold, including children’s story gram at the library that teaches chil- time. Overall, the branch saw a 23 per- dren about science, technology, engi- cent jump in services from previous neering, and math. years. “The kids are really nice. They’re When asked if they were happy to lovely. I like the kids. They always have the new librarians several par- bring good ideas to the STEM events ents answered, “I’m happy,” and “Yes, which I am doing.” of course.”

Photo by Niall Ridgley (l-r) Katie Loucks and Nicole Figueroa are the new children’s librarians at the Mosholu Library in Norwood. 6 • February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News St. Ann’s SOUPer Bowl Yields Thousands in Canned Goods School Briefly By NIALL RIDGLEY Touchdown! Reopens Led by a strong fifth grade, St. Philip Neri School in Bedford Park Six months after St. Ann’s Parish ran through their competition and permanently closed, the Archdiocese shocked the Bronx with a surprise of New York has temporarily reopened soup drive victory this February. the school to accommodate students The SOUPer Bowl is a soup drive and staffers at Immaculate Conception hosted by Our Lady of Refuge School School. and soup kitchen in Fordham and The Olinville-based school moved co-hosted by three other Catholic to the defunct Norwood parish a couple schools in the Bronx, namely Our of weeks ago after a flood tore through Lady of Mt. Carmel (also in Ford- their building at 760 E. Gun Hill Rd., ham), St. Brendan’s in Norwood, just short of a mile from the Bainbridge and the surprise winner, St. Philip Avenue Catholic school serving kinder- Neri. St. Philip collected almost 2300 garten through eighth grade. cans in their first year of participa- The Archdiocese of New York con- tion, citing community together- firmed that students and staffers will ness, peer to peer mentorship, and a complete the 2017-18 school year at the mean inter-grade competitive spirit four-story property. as their keys to success. St. Ann’s School closed last August, “The children were recognizing, with diocesan officials citing operating ‘wow, we are really helping others costs as the reason. Students and staff- to replenish and help feed our neigh- ers were relocated throughout the sys- bors.’ One of our mottos is ‘servium’, tem. The closing came two years after which means to serve,” St. Philip the church closed, leading officials to Neri Principal Ajeia Beebe said. merge St. Ann’s Parish with St. Bren- St. Philip Neri students were dan’s Parish on Perry Avenue. taught that service can be fun as —David Cruz well. Beebe and her faculty decided Photo by Niall Ridgley to make the drive into a competition ST. PHILIP NERI School Principal Ajeia Beebe (l) stands with student Auriel Kagarcia among the various grades, which (c) and fifth grade teacher Rachelle Leger (r). quickly became a no holds barred free-for-all for the top spot. the younger students can learn the Franciscan Sisters of the Renewal. “I had students bring in 100 values of service from their older As for the future of the SOUPer cans… They wanted to win so bad,” schoolmates. Auriel Kagarcia, an Bowl, Beebe says there is hope that said Rachelle Leger, a teacher of the eighth grader, said that, “I realized the drive will expand to other local triumphant fifth grade. “We had a that there are a lot of people that are Bronx schools, including some high tactic, we had a game plan to win- less fortunate than us, and we need schools, in the coming years. But for ning. We had a total of 734 cans. We to help those people. Especially for Leger, it’s personal. felt really great about it.” The fifth the little ones, they need to under- “As a fifth grade teacher, I do graders earned the coveted prize of stand those things.” want to keep [the competition] go- FOLLOW US a pizza party and a custom trophy St. Philip Neri’s collection, ing because I want to continue our for their efforts. which ranged beyond just cans to reign. We don’t want [the trophy] to ONLINE Teachers at St. Philip Neri also ramen and soup, was donated to leave the fifth grade, in the name of WWW. preach peer mentorship so that the Convent of Guadalupe for the Jesus, no we don’t,” she said. NORWOODNEWS. ORG Aspiring Local Journalist Heads to DC Conference A Bedford Park local will represent National Youth Correspondents clude Hoda Kotb from NBC, Brian the Bronx as a National Youth Cor- partake in real-world learning Lamb from C-Span, and Pulitzer respondent at the 2018 Washington through decision-making simula- Prize winning photographer Carol TO REPORT A Journalism and Media Conference at tions that push them to solve prob- Guzy. STORY TO THE George Mason University. lems and examine ethical, creative, The Washington Journalism and Keri Campbell, 15, a student at St. and pragmatic facets of journalism Media Conference gives aspiring NORWOOD NEWS, Barnabas High School in Woodlawn, and media. The experiential segment journalists and student leaders the will join an elite group of students of the program will feature speakers chance to learn directly from illus- CALL US AT from all over the country for a journal- from the media community, such as trious faculty, guest speakers, and 718-324-4998 ism and media intensive program. Keri prestigious journalists, CEOs of ma- D.C. practitioners. The weeklong pro- was selected for her academic acumen jor media outlets, researchers, and gram is an honor to attend and can be and strong interest in journalism and successful recent college graduates. a career builder for participants. media studies. Some examples of past speakers in- —Mary Mellon February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News • 7 Students Hold ‘Blue’ Mass for First Responders By DAVID GREENE “We celebrate Catholic Schools a mass and we take the opportunity Fordham as well as a handful of Dozens of police officers, fire- Week in the entire United States this to invite officers and first emergency EMTs. fighters and paramedics from across week and every Catholic School cel- responders to honor them and to give John Riley, a former parishioner the borough and as far away as Man- ebrates and asks, ‘What is the mean- thanks to God for their service and whose great grandparents helped hattan turned out for the annual ing of a Catholic education?’” said to tell them that we are praying for build St. Philip Neri Church more “Blue” mass, honoring their ser- Fr. Jose Serrano, who presided over them.” than a century ago, attended the service at St. Philip Neri Church on the the mass organized by students. This annual event was attended vice in his capacity as Regional Su- Grand Concourse near Bedford Park “And we do it with different activ- by about 40 NYPD officers, members perintendent of Schools for the Arch- on Jan. 31. ities in the school, but also they have of Ladder 37/Engine 78 in nearby diocese of New York. Riley said after the mass, “We’re here to honor all those who give so much each and every day and this is the annual ‘Blue’ mass here at St. L McC Philip Neri, which honors the emer- A LO IN S gency workers, the firemen, and the D K NYPD for all that they do in the com- Applications R E munity here, and also in the city it- A Y

self.” C

C Noting the parallels of first re-

L are now being O sponders to those who dedicate their M O O M H life to the church, Riley noted, “We U C N S are in solidarity with those that are accepted! ITY ER CHART called to serve, we have the same mission. The mission of the church is to go forth and protect and to make certain that the most innocent, the The Cardinal McCloskey Community Charter School most vulnerable are taken care of.” “This is a great day,” said Dep- uty Inspector Ray Mundo, the Com- Opening in September 2018 manding Officer of the 34th Precinct in Manhattan’s Harlem section, who spoke to the Norwood News following Applications are being accepted for Kindergarten and 1st Grade the service. Mundo said of the mass, “We truly appreciate what the church is To request an application • A safe and supportive school based on a trauma doing for us. We’re always grateful informed approach for children who have suffered to anyone who shows us any signs of or for more information, trauma and neglect appreciation.” Eighth grader Valerie Rodas said please email us at • A rigorous and data-informed academic program of the mass, “I think it’s very impor- • tant because it shows our gratitude [email protected] An extended day program and staffing model that for them and their service and St. promotes personalized instruction Philip Neri is a family and during or call us at Catholic Schools Week, it brings out • Comprehensive wrap-around services that our motto and shows how big a fam- 718-402-0081 x 227 promote each child’s emotional, developmental ily we are.” and behavioral growth Rodas added, “And this is my last year here, so I’m glad to attend this mass.”

Visit us at CMCCS.org

Photo by David Greene SEVERAL DOZEN OFFICERS from the NYPD stand during the annual “Blue” mass at St. Philip Neri Church in Bedford Park. 8 • February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News Laundry Love Around The Bronx LOVE AND APPRECIATION was in the air at various laundromats across the Bronx as the Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improvement District and Mosholu Preser- vation Corporation hailed the fi rst-ever Laundry Love ahead of Valentine’s Day. Residents were treated to a free wash, courtesy of the two merchant organizing groups.

Photo courtesy Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improvement District Photo courtesy Mosholu Preservation Corporation (L-R) MARIA’S LAUNDROMAT EMPLOYEES Marlen, CUSTOMERS TAKING UP every folding station on Sunday made it a busy after- Mati, and Janeth stand alongside their boss Andy (right) noon for Giant Laundry. as they help promote the event.

Photo courtesy Mosholu Preservation Corporation Photo courtesy Mosholu Preservation Corporation DORIS TAMAYO BUYS her son chocolate covered strawberries at the Laundry LAUNDROMAT OWNER MARIO Flores Love event, the night before Valentine’s Day. hard at work during the Laundry Love Event held on Feb. 11 at Giant Laundry on Webster Avenue.

Photo courtesy Jerome- Gun Hill Business Improvement District BACK AT MARIA’S Laundromat, this resident in green saves a little green by washing her clothes on Laundry Love Day. Photo courtesy Mosholu Preservation Corporation LONGTIME NORWOOD RESIDENT Carol O’Neil folding the last of her laundry Tuesday night at Blue City Laundromat on 204th Street. February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News • 9 Laundry Love Around The Bronx Opinion Building Strong Schools Through Community Engagement

By CARMEN FARIÑA ings are neighborhood hubs and through P.S. Alumni. With over 50 years of experi- I encourage you to get involved, All across the world, our alumni ence as an educator, I know that spend time at your local school and are doing amazing things: starting it truly takes a village to deliver invest in the next generation of businesses, investing in their com- for students. In each school com- leaders. From PA/PTA president munities and raising families. P.S. munity, that village is made up to field trip chaperone to mentor, Alumni taps into the incredible of teachers, administrators, sup- only when the village is engaged network of mentors, volunteers port staff, outside partners and of in school-based activities, events and advocates ready to give back course, families. While I often say and decision-making, can we fos- and help students find success. it all comes down to what happens ter the development of a commu- For alumni who are also par- in the classroom, when it comes to nity deeply committed to the suc- ents of current public school stu- building strong school communi- cess of our students. dents, it’s time to get involved. You ties, families are critical partners. And when we invest in fami- know firsthand the important role That’s why, as Chancellor, I’ve lies, they want to invest in us. that education plays throughout made family engagement a prior- That’s why we’ve increased our guages. your life and why it’s so impor- ity for all of our schools, and there outreach to families. When I be- The opportunities in New tant to build a strong foundation. has been an unprecedented invest- came Chancellor four years ago, York City are endless, and Career Whether you’re volunteering to do ment in families. Whether we’re requiring all schools to host at Day events, mentorship programs a read-aloud in your child’s class, bringing parents into the class- least one parent-teacher confer- and beautification projects help or speaking at your alma mater for room to teach robotics, inviting ence at night and extending meet- us bring those opportunities into College Awareness Day, now is the parents to learn English alongside ing time to accommodate working schools and classrooms, and ex- time to share your experience and their children, or providing profes- families were no-brainers. As a pose our students to endless possi- help shape the next class into the sional development to parent lead- result of these efforts, the number bilities. For example, alumni from future leaders of this city and of ers, we’re constantly rolling out of parents attending family confer- the Bronx spent a Saturday morn- the world. innovative programs that provide ences increased by 43 percent since ing painting classrooms and plant- That work starts in your neigh- unique opportunities for parents 2013. We’ve also removed barriers ing a garden at the Longwood Pre- borhood and at your local school. to get involved in schools. for families that speak a language paratory Academy. This is one The doors are always open. My message to all parents, other than English at home by ex- of many ways the millions of for- grandparents, family members or panding our translation and inter- mer New York City public school Carmen Fariña is the outgoing alumni reading this: school build- pretation services in over 200 lan- students are getting involved New York City Public Schools Chan-

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© 2018 VNSNY CHOICE Stock photo. Posed by model. ID# D6241 | Rev 08/09/17 | DOH Approved 11/13/17 10 • February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News Bronx Disability Backlog Part of ‘National Disgrace’

By MARY MELLON log] would be a national disgrace,” and NIALL RIDGLEY says Mary Dale, senior vice president “You are all going to be rejected,” of strategic communications at All- cautions Clarence Sessoms, a U.S. Air sup Inc., an employment network that Force veteran and Morrisania resident helps those seeking disabilities assis- who first filed for disability in 2004. tance navigate the lengthy application His matter has not been resolved. process. He hopes his third appeal hearing After filing a Social Security dis- this month can finally secure him ability claim, applicants must both benefits he’s been seeking the last 14 prove that they have worked and con- years. tributed sufficiently to the Federal Genevieve Machado, a Castle Hill Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) resident and former medical assistant and that they are completely disabled. who stopped working due to fibromy- Allsup assists in filling out applica- algia and a torn meniscus, the latter tions, pulling medical records to- occurring during a slip and fall and gether, confirming that the relevant the former surfacing during her ca- taxes have been paid, and that every- reer, also feels hoodwinked. She has thing is insured. been working the appeal process and Sessoms, who is represented by has been unable to secure a hearing Allsup, says going through the pro- date since 2015. cess without representation was very “I have been honest. Maybe if difficult. Allsup suggested he petition I would have lied, it would have for a hearing in New Jersey instead worked,” says Machado. “It’s disap- of the Bronx since it was choked with pointing really... You work, work, the backlog of cases. work, work, work, at the end of the day “They continue to put rules and when you need assistance… [you need] regulations in place that slow the pro- the money that you put in, you are de- cess, don’t have a real benefit to them nied everything, and why? Why? It’s or to the individuals going through crazy.” the program and make things even A lengthy wait for a hearing is not harder for everyone involved,” Dale unusual in the Bronx. Data kept by says. Dale cites an example is how the Social Security Administration SSA now requires nearly all medi- (SSA) shows residents who have filed cal records be submitted for review a disability claim at their local Social prior to a decision being made. “So Security office wait an average of 779 what happens is that they end up with days, over two years, for their case to 50,000 or 60,000 cases, with medical be reviewed at the Office of Disability evidence that’s more than 1,000 pages Adjudication and Review (ODAR) at long.” 226 E. 161st St. This is the longest wait John Shallman, a spokesman for time in the nation, higher than the na- SSA, acknowledged the backlog, at- tional average of 593 days, and there tributing it to an aging baby boomer are 6,457 cases pending in the Bronx population as they enter disability- now. On top of that, only 45 percent of prone years and the 2008 Great Reces- those who are granted a hearing will sion. The federal agency has hired 250 receive disability benefits. administrative law judges since 2016 The Americans with Disabilities Photo by Niall Ridgley to answer the backlog, with results be- Act defines a disability as a physical GENEVIEVE MACHADO HAS waited months to have her case heard before the Office ginning to show. or mental impairment that severely of Disability Adjudication and Review. “We continue to make progress in limits one or more major life activi- eliminating the hearing backlog. For ties. Some disabilities are physi- than many other agencies. To qual- walk again. It was then that he first 13 consecutive months, from January cal. Sessoms, for instance, has had six ify for their benefits, claimants must filed and was denied by SSA. 2017 through January 2018, we have procedures on his knees, two back op- prove they’re unable to perform work “I went through all my savings, all reduced the number of people wait- erations, a torn rotator cuff, and a torn they previously were able to and be the money I had in the company 401(k), ing for a hearing decision,” said Shall- muscle in his arm, suffered for various unable to do other work due to their my annuities in the union, I spent ev- man. reasons, and can no longer perform as medical problems. Their disability erything I had to stay afloat. Now I Sessoms is indignant. “We are not a union construction worker, his job must also have lasted or be expected have nothing. And your family suffers the ones who are scamming the sys- of 30 years. Other so-called “invisible to last for at least a year, or result in when you’re the main breadwinner; tem, we are the ones who are putting disabilities” may not be immediately death. they suffer,” Sessoms explains. He has into the system, paying our money apparent from the outside. Some ex- Sessoms does not believe he was since relied on his wife’s income and into it and I think you should give us amples are learning disabilities or fairly assessed by SSA. After he in- a check from Veterans Affairs to stay the benefit of the doubt.” mental health conditions. jured both of his knees in 2004 he re- afloat. SSA defines disability differently quired three years of rehabilitation to “My best description of [the back- Additional reporting by David Cruz Bronx DA to Investigate NYPD Shooting Death of Unarmed Senior February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News • 11

rience symptoms of serious medical vider and tell them your symptoms. conditions in the weeks and months You can call your OB/GYN for advice after birth, including blood clots, instead of 911 for these symptoms: excessive bleeding from the uterus, • Vaginal Bleeding: Call if the heart problems, or an infection of bleeding soaks through one pad an the C-section incision. In the weeks hour. Or blood clots from the vagina after birth, listen to your body and the size of an egg or bigger. It’s a pos- trust your gut when something feels sible sign of obstetric hemorrhage. wrong. • C-section Incision Not Healing: Keeping New Moms Safe Below are signs of potentially seri- Possible sign that incision is in- ous medical conditions. Fortunately, fected. By CLAIRE GARON, MPH, CHES within a year of giving birth. many of these problems can be re- • Temperature of 100.4°F or Higher: Congratulations! During preg- Pregnancy and childbirth send solved if a you get medical care. If Possible sign of infection in body. nancy, your body has an enormous your body on a roller coaster of physi- you experience anything on the list • Red or Swollen Leg: Red or swol- responsibility and needs your care. cal changes. After you give birth, below, call 911. They include: len leg that is painful or warm to In the weeks after giving birth, know- your body continues to experience • Pain in Chest: Possible sign of touch. It’s a possible sign of blood clot ing what to expect from your body many strong sensations. Hormones blood clot in lung or a heart problem. in the leg. and how to spot signs of trouble can flood your veins, your breasts fill • Difficulty Breathing: Possible literally save your life. with milk, and you may experience sign of blood clot in lung or heart Claire Garon, MPH, CHES, works Today, we’re talking about how cramps as your uterus shrinks back problem. with Montefiore Health System’s Office to identify symptoms of post-birth to its original size. These are un- • Seizures: Possible sign of a con- of Community & Population Health. complications and what to do next. pleasant, but completely normal after dition called Eclampsia. Post-birth complications are serious giving birth. If you experience anything on the Source: Empowering Women to Ob- physical conditions that can happen Unfortunately, some moms expe- list below, call your OB/GYN pro- tain Needed Care Project.

At Monteﬁ ore, a Healthier Heart Starts With a Step

By DAVID CRUZ coronary artery disease through Heart disease kills more peo- the Cardiac Wellness Program. ple in the Norwood, Kingsbridge The program encourages changes Heights and Bedford Park sections in lifestyle and eating habits as a of the Bronx than cancer, says the way to reverse heart disease. city Health Department. Heart transplant surgeries are At Montefiore Medical Center, common at Montefiore (last year nearly four dozen staffers strolled there were 49 heart transplant around so-called “Montefiore surgeries at the hospital), though Mile” to set an example and make a last resort. Exercise stands as a a point: walking can dramatically critical tool to preventing heart reduce one’s chance of developing disease. That includes walking to heart disease. Four trips around stop the development of arterio- the indoor path found at the hos- sclerosis, a condition that thickens pital’s Moses Campus in Norwood artery walls, making it tougher for equate to a mile blood to flow through smoothly. “You’re maintaining and build- The condition is known to cause ing heart muscles,” said Dr. Mario heart attacks and obesity. Garcia, co-director of the Mon- The typical age for men to de- tefiore-Einstein Center for Heart velop heart disease starts in ones & Vascular Care and professor 50s. In some instances, Dr. Garcia, and chief director of cardiology at who’s been a doctor since 1986, has Montefiore and Einstein College occasionally treated heart disease of Medicine. “The more amount of patients in their mid-30s. Eating muscle mass, the more energy you Photo courtesy Montefi ore Health System less greasy foods and exercising (L-R) DR. STEPHEN SAFYER, president and CEO of Montefi ore Health System; have.” more are just some simple tips that Dr. Mario Garcia, Montefi ore Einstein Center for Heart & Vascular Care co-director; Staffers clad in red spent their 11 can reduce the chances of devel- and Dr. Peter P. Semczuk, senior vice president and executive director of the Henry o’clock walking the halls of “Mon- and Lucy Moses Campus, Montefi ore, lead a walk around “Montefi ore Mile.” oping heart disease, said Dr. Gar- tefiore Mile” alongside Dr. Stephen cia. He admits it’s not always easy Safyer, CEO and president of Mon- It happened on Feb. 1, the start ease has prompted Montefiore to given Bronx residents’ unorthodox tefiore Health System, who’s joined of Heart Month. Overall, the Bronx dispatch a cardiovascular outreach work schedules. But avoiding fatty staffers for the yearly event since it fares poorly when it comes to heart team to educate patients on the foods is certainly one step. began in 2008. Dr. Peter P. Semczuk, disease. Health officials continu- benefits of maintaining a healthy “It may have worked for the senior vice president and executive ally rank heart disease as the lead- heart. Its propensity to educate caveman, but the caveman prob- director of the Moses Campus, was ing cause of death in the Bronx. as a form or prevention has made ably died by age 30 or age 40,” he also on hand. The mission to reduce heart dis- Montefiore a leader in preventing said. 12 • February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News Classiﬁ eds Professional Directory

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NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES

Flea Market ment of Education, or visit the New York State Home step streets, and other loca- Free Tax Filing Donations Sought the Family Welcome Center Energy Assistance Program tions throughout the city Assistance Donations are needed for at 1 Fordham Plaza, 7th floor, (HEAP). Eligible households this winter. Interested appli- Free tax filing is avail- the Bedford Mosholu Com- 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays can receive assistance of up cants must be at least 18, eli- able for families whose munity Association flea through Thursdays or 8 a.m. to $725. A family of four with gible to work in the USA and total income is $54,000 or market scheduled to be held to 3 p.m. on Fridays. a yearly income of $53,482 capable of performing heavy less or individuals who on March 10. Bring new and can still qualify for help. For physical labor. Registration make $30,000 or less at used items (except cloth- Civil Service Exams more information about eli- is at the DOT garage, Bronx the following locations: ing and hard cover books) Civil service exams are gibility, and to sign up, call Yard, Mosholu Avenue and MMCC, 3450 DeKalb Ave. to the BMCA office at 400 E. available for the following (212) 331-3126. 258th Street (Van Cortlandt (appt: Dewayne Lee at Mosholu Pkwy. So., apt. B1 jobs through Feb. 28: Child Park), weekdays from 9 a.m. (718) 882-4000 ext. 209 or (lobby floor) on Feb. 21 and 28 protective specialist, envi- Free Family Services to 3 p.m. Bring two small email [email protected]); from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., March 3 ronmental police officer, mo- University Behavioral photos (1 1/2” square), origi- and SUNY Bronx Educa- from 1:30 to 4 p.m. and March tor vehicle operator, motor Services, 4119 White Plains nal and copy of two forms tional Opportunity Cen- 7 from 7:30 to 9 p.m. For more vehicle operator for CUNY Rd. (230th Street), offers of ID, and SS card or Tax ID ter, 1666 Bathgate Ave. information, call (718) 367- and for NYC Health + Hospi- needy families free re- number. Hourly salary is $15; (appt: (718) 530-7019). Ap- 2230 or email bedfordmosh- tals, school safety agent, sew- sources for child care/after and $22.50 after 40 hours are plicants must bring a W2 [email protected]. age treatment worker, spe- school, parenting, child sup- worked in a week. For more and/or 1099 form or any cial officer, special officer for port, employment, education, information and locations, other proof showing in- Pre-K Applications NYC Health + Hospitals, and housing assistance/referral, call 311. come, government-issued Pre-K applications are traffic enforcement agent. To elder care, legal assistance, ID, social security card available for families with take the test, an application and more. For more informa- Tax Forms Available or ITIN number for self, children born in 2014. Fami- must first be submitted to tion, call Meredith Pouncey Free federal and NYS tax spouse and dependents, a lies who submit a Pre-K ap- http://on.nyc.gov/2o4cPeS. at (718) 652-0227 ext. 259 or forms are available for pickup 1095 health form or health plication by the March 30 For more information, con- 271. at the Mosholu Library, 285 E. insurance statements and deadline will get an offer tact 311. 205th St. (info: (718) 882-8239); bank account information letter in May 2018. To apply, Snow Laborers Sought and free NYS forms at the of- for those looking to have one can go online at nyc.gov/ Heating Assistance NYC seeks emergency fice of Assemblyman Jeff Di- their tax refund direct de- prek, call 311 to be directedTRIP Sign up to receive free snow laborers to help remove nowtiz, 3107 Kingsbridge Ave. posited. Appointments are to the New York City Depart- heating assistance through snow and ice from bus stops, (info: (718) 796-5345). required. 14 • February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News

Compiled by JUDY NOY EDITOR’S PICK

Heart Healthy Month Mind Builders and Monteﬁ ore Medical Center offer free adult classes at Mind-Builders Creative Arts Center, 3415 Olinville Ave. (info: (718) 652- File photo courtesy Joshua Bright/Wave Hill 6256) as follows: THE WEATHER MAY limit outdoor events at Wave Hill (pictured), but there’s still plenty to do inside (see “Events” section for details). Feb. 17 and 24 - Salsa from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. information and program details, contact irish. For more information, call (718) 881-8900. Feb. 17 and 24 - Stretch from 1 to 1:30 p.m. [email protected]. Senator Jamaal T Bailey and the Tracey Towers Feb. 15 - African/Modern from 7 to 8:15 p.m. Williamsbridge Oval presents the following free Tenant organization present The Power of Voting, events: Winter Olympics, Feb. 20 from 10 a.m. Feb. 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Tracey Towers’ Feb. 21 - Zumba from 7 to 8 p.m. to 2 p.m., for ages 6 to 13, which include arts Community Room A, 40 W. Mosholu Pkwy., So. and crafts, hockey, mini bobsled, ice skating, and Events include a discussion on Black Votes Matter Feb. 24 - Zumba from 9 to 10 a.m. curling (bring your own lunch); and Tiny Prints: and a series of performances celebrating black Baby and Toddler Program, Mondays 11:15 a.m.to culture. Breakfast and refreshments will be served. Feb. 20 - Yoga & Stress Reduction from 7 to 8:15 p.m. 12:15 p.m. and Fridays 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. For For more information and to RSVP, call (718) 547- more information, call (718) 543-8672. 8854 or email [email protected], by Feb. 23.

BronxWorks presents Dip Against Homelessness, Lehman College, 250 Bedford Pk., Blvd. W. Lehman College, 250 Bedford Pk., Blvd. W. Feb. 17 at 11 a.m. at Orchard Beach. Donations presents free Resistance Beyond Walls and Onstage presents concert which celebrates John are welcome for this fundraiser. Non-dippers may Borders, Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Corigliano’s 80th birthday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. in donate new gloves, socks, hats or scarves at the Lovinger Theatre. Events include subjects of mass event or to BronxWorks through Feb. 16. For more incarceration, political prisoners and repression, The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge the Music Building, Hearth Room. Tickets are information and locations, call (646) 393-4002. fi lm and panel discussion. For more information, Rd., presents Sonido Costeño Trio in by donation to support the John Corigliano call (718) 960-8833. Concert, featuring Latin music, Feb. 17 at Scholarship Fund. For more information, visit Bronx River Art Center (BRAC) presents art 2:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579- lehman.edu/music or email music.department@ workshops at Bronx Community Board 6, 1932 Bronx Community College, 2155 University Ave. 4244/46/57 or visit www.nypl.org. lehman.cuny.edu. Arthur Ave. (East Tremont Avenue), 4th fl oor, 11 presents free Marvin Horne Jazz Quartet, Feb. a.m. to 1 p.m. (for ages 6 to 12) and 2 to 4 p.m. 15 from noon to 3 p.m. in the Roscoe C. Brow Lehman College, 250 Bedford Pk., Blvd. W. Events (for teens and adults), as follows: Cartooning Playhouse. For more information, call (718) 289- presents free concert featuring the Lehman on Feb. 17; and Masks on Feb. 24 ($8/youth; 5100. Chamber Players performing classical music, Holy Nativity Church, 3061 Bainbridge Ave. (204th $10/adults; $15/parent/child. Also offered is Feb. 25 at 2 p.m. in the Music Building, Recital Street), hosts the 40th anniversary of Poetry Cartooning Classes, through March 9 from 4 to The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd., Hall, 3rd fl oor. Donations are welcome. For and Dining, Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m. Events include 6 p.m. for ages 12 to 18. $65/eight sessions (sign presents Black History Month Celebration, Feb. more information, call (718) 960-8833. dinner, drinks, poetry and surprises. Guests may bring poetry to read. Donations are $25. For more up at Eventbrite.com). For more information, call 28 at 4 p.m. Discuss Black history and how to help (718) 589-5819. shape the future. For more information, call (718) Lehman College, 250 Bedford Pk., Blvd. W. information, call (718) 652-5853. 579-4244/46/57 or visit www.nypl.org. presents Student Play Festival, Feb. 22 to 24 Mosholu Montefi ore Senior Center, 3450 DeKalb in the Speech and Theatre Building’s Studio Lehman College, 250 Bedford Pk., Blvd. W. Ave. offers seniors dance workshop, Latin Theatre at 7 p.m. Events include six dramatic presents Biennial Symposium, Feb. 23 and 24, Library Events Rhythms, Music and Dances From Around the works. For more information, call (718) 960- in the Music Building room 330, featuring Irish World, at 10 a.m., Mondays through March: Feb. The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd., 8710. language literature and the folklore of Ireland. Tickets are $20; free for students. For more 26, March 5, 12 and 19. Register in advance or just presents for adults: Exposing Politics, a play show up. The course culminates in a revue. For of political acts, Feb. 24 at 2:30 p.m. For more more information, call (718) 798-6601. information, call (718) 579-4244/46/57 or visit www.nypl.org. Wave Hill, a Bronx oasis at 675 W. 252nd St. in Riverdale, offers Family Art Projects: The Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., offers for Josephine Baker Dances Out the Winter Blues, children: Crafty Fridays at 3 p.m.: (ages 5 to 12), to make handmade musical instruments and crafts, Feb. 16 and 23; STEM: Kids Science at 3 hear storyteller, Feb. 17 and 18; and Exotic p.m.: (ages 5 to 12), Feb. 20 and 27; and Bilingual Desert Dwellers, to sketch and paint, then make Birdies Spanish Series at 11 a.m.: native Spanish a mirage, Feb. 24 and 25; both from 10 a.m. to 1 speakers play guitar, percussion, and use puppets, p.m. Also scheduled is concert, Feb. 25 at 2 p.m. Feb. 21. Teens/young adults can enjoy: Craft- ($28; $24/members; $12/ages 8 to 18), featuring eens! at 3:30 p.m.: Crafts on Wednesdays, (all classical music (info: ext. 251). All events are in materials are provided), Feb. 21; and fi lm: “The the WH House. Grounds admission is free until Shack,” Feb. 24 at 1:30 p.m. Adults can attend: noon Saturdays and Tuesdays all year. For more Knitting Circle: Thursdays at 3 p.m. For more information and a schedule of events including information, call (718) 882-8239. tours and walks, call (718) 549-3200. The Jerome Park Library, 118 Eames Place (near Black History Events Kingsbridge Road), offers for children: fi lm: Feb. 24 at 2 p.m.; and Afternoon Arts: to make a The Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., presents creation to take home, Feb. 26 at 4 p.m.; both for 50th Anniversary of 1968, featuring the ages 5 to 12. Teens/young adults can attend: We Photo courtesy Bronx Borough President’s Offi ce documentary, “MLK: Death in Memphis,” followed Are the World: Understanding Salsa: presents BRONX DEPUTY BOROUGH President Marricka Scott-McFadden (l) stands by a brief discussion, Feb. 16 at 1:30 p.m. For instruments, music and lyrics, Feb. 20 at 4 p.m. more information, call (718) 882-8239. For more information, call (718) 549-5200. with honorees (l-r) Tamika D. Mallory, Hon. Helen Diane Foster, and father of PFC Kwabena Mensah at an award ceremony honoring achievements Bronx County Historical Society presents free NOTE: Items for consideration may be mailed by members of the African-American community on Black History Month. lecture, Slave Stories, Our Stories, Feb. 23 from to our offi ce or sent to norwoodnews@ 6 to 8 p.m. at the Museum of Bronx History, 3266 norwoodnews.org, and should be received by Also pictured is Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. (r). Check under Bainbridge Ave. (208th Street). Events include Feb. 19 for the next publication date of March “Black History Events” for more. discussion and conversation with one of the house 1. slaves who worked in the Valentine-Varian House. February 15-28, 2018 • Norwood News • 15 Shelter Plan Shifts to Jerome Ave.

(continued from page 1) Bill de Blasio, a staunch supporter of cated, and they achieved consensus, traditional shelters over the cluster bringing a property owner and a not- site program popularized during the Opinion for-profit service provider to the table Bloomberg administration. while gathering the support of Com- “I got the word that we were not munity Board members and neigh- going to proceed at the original loca- Working Together to bors alike,” Banks wrote of the com- tion from the mayor himself,” Cohen munity. recalled. One of this issue’s Op-Eds was co- The shelter is expected to open Welcome Neighbors written by Councilman Andrew Co- sometime this summer. “I hope it’s hen, representing the area where the not here in perpetuity, but I think it shelter will be situated. “I think it’s a will be here for a very long time. The By STEVEN BANKS work in partnership with a com- location that I think will have as little homeless population has been grow- and ANDREW COHEN munity that didn’t turn its back impact on the overall community as ing for 25 years and we’re barely at Homelessness is one of the on New Yorkers in need. Rather these can happen. I think that it’s a lot the point where we stopped growth,” hardest issues we have to confront than saying not-in-my-backyard, better than the other site proposed,” Cohen said. as public servants and partners they did their homework, they ad- Cohen told the Norwood News. The new location was long favored in government. But working to- vocated, and they achieved consen- That other site was 3041 Webster by members of Community Board gether to do so is more important sus, bringing a property owner and Ave., a two-story property owned and 7, which saw the Webster Avenue than ever because homelessness a not-for-profit service provider to operated by Sam’s Floor Covering, site as too close to PS/MS 20, a K-8 impacts literally every commu- the table while gathering the sup- also known as Sam’s Carpeting. Last school. News of a proposed shelter nity across the five boroughs, in- port of Community Board mem- year, property owner Carmine Rossi arriving near the school stoked fears cluding our own constituents right bers and neighbors alike. Their submitted paperwork to the New York from parents who staged a protest in here in Bronx Community District dedication to do this is inspiring: City Department of Buildings that late September denouncing proposed 7—often due to rising rents and they didn’t just talk the talk, they looked to repurpose the building for plans. stagnant incomes, not through any walked the walk. “sleeping accommodations” and build But the new site’s back wall faces fault of their own. Today, thanks to a productive, another floor. The language was simi- the back wall of MS 208/The Bronx If we’re going to succeed in this collaborative process with com- lar to that found in building permits Dance Academy, where the majority fight, it’s because we find ways to munity members, we’ve identified for impending men’s only homeless of the schoolchildren who attend it tackle these challenges together, a site that meets the needs of our shelter sites. are girls. Unlike PS/MS 20, it would collaboratively along with our com- homeless neighbors and commu- The Jerome Avenue two-story site take great effort to walk all the way munities, putting people and neigh- nity members alike. We’re proud will be home to some 200 men who around the Jerome Avenue site to borhoods first in all that we do. to announce that we will be mov- are originally from the Bronx. Bronx- school’s front doors at 3617 Bain- We must make sure our home- ing forward with not-for-profit Works, a social service nonprofit, was bridge Ave. Parents learned about less neighbors can reside in safe, service provider BronxWorks’ picked to operate the shelter with a the new shelter after the Norwood stable locations closer to the an- proposal to operate 3600 Jerome contract still being finalized. The non- News alerted them to it. chors of life and communities they Avenue as a high-quality borough- profit has already been contracted by Jillian Gutierrez, a parent who last called home as they get back on based shelter, and we have notified DHS to conduct outreach of the bor- was once homeless, isn’t sure the lo- their feet. That means implement- the community of the intent to do ough’s homeless population. Within cation is a good match. “This school’s ing a borough-based approach and so—bringing us closer to our goal Community Board 7, comprising the mostly girls, I don’t know if they’re closing the 17-year-old Band-Aid of being able to provide our neigh- neighborhoods of Norwood, Bedford pedophiles,” she said. “I’ve been in cluster program as well as com- bors from this community who fall Park, Kingsbridge Heights, Fordham a shelter before so I know how these mercial hotels used as shelters on on hard times with the dignified and University Heights, there are 677 people usually get. They’re not peo- and off since the time of Lindsay. support they deserve right here in people known to be homeless. ple persons. Some are, some aren’t.” We must also make sure our new, this community. We are encour- The property was once the home “There’s a lot of implications improved locations are integrated aged by the community’s engage- of Federation Employment and Guid- here,” Frank Fermin, a father pick- into the fabric and character of ment and are confident that, to- ance Service Inc. (FEGS), which had ing up his son, a sixth grader said. each neighborhood so that our gether, with their support, we will closed shortly after filing for bank- “We’ll have a few worries.” homeless neighbors feel welcomed make this the best experience it ruptcy. The building became vacant Adaline Walker-Santiago, chair and supported as they stabilize can be for New Yorkers in need as last year, opening up the property for of Community Board 7, said the their lives. they get back on their feet. a shelter. concern will be raised when Bronx- To that end, as we all strive to As we transform how we pro- Cohen had spent last year con- Works presents it at the board some- remake the shelter system, which vide shelter throughout the five ferencing with representatives from time in the coming months. “We’re grew haphazardly over many de- boroughs, we encourage commu- DHS and the mayor’s office, hold- still working to see if it can be less cades, the City is asking communities to join us. Our shared mis- ing meetings in the basement of City than 200 men and to make sure it’s nities to help identify locations sion to better support our neigh- Hall. The matter went up to Mayor well coordinated,” she said. that not-for-profit providers can bors in need depends on working propose through the open-ended together. RFP procurement process. With clusters closing quickly, especially Steven Banks is the Commis- right here in the Bronx, this com- sioner for the New York City Depart- munity district heard the call to ac- ment of Homeless Services. Andrew tion—and the City embraced their Cohen is Council Member represent- response. ing the 11th Council District, which We are proud to represent and covers Norwood. N 3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFHFREE ORWOOD Q PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU P RESERVATION 3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFHProudly Serving Bronx Communities Since 1988FREE CORPORATION N EWS Q FREE N Vol 30, NoORWOOD 7 • P QP UBLISHEDUBLISHED BY INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: BY M MOSHOLU OSHOLU P STORE VS. ONLINE SHOPPING | PG. 4 PRESERVATIONRESERVATION CORPORATION CORPORATION N EWS • M Q ARCH 30-A PRIL 12, 2017 TACKLING G&TUNDERSTANDINGBRONX YOURBARRIERS: HEALTH | PG. 9

Task forceINEQUITIES hears strengths and weaknesses of gifted and talented programs

Mixed Feelings For Stagg’s Mosholu Site pg 5

Norwood Sewer Project Approved For Night Work | pg 6

YAJAIRA ADORNO OF ented program. REACH 40,000 Norwood testi es before a panel focusin 3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFHByFREE DAVID CRUZ A task force is learning the city Department of Education’s by Bronx Borough President g on the problems of the city Department of Education’s gifted and tal- Potential Customers In The Bronx gifted and talented program (G&T) is in high demand, short Ruben Diaz Jr. and his Brook- Monte Pilot Program supply, poorly publicized, and lyn counterpart, Eric Adams, N held its first session on March The panel heard from Ma- Photo by Adi Talwar Streamlines Access ORWOOD poses logistical nightmares for sura Tidjani, a mother of two 20 at the Bronx High School QP the hundreds of parents whose African-American boys in To Developmental UBLISHED children enroll in the program. of Science, a specialized high supposed to have the program BY School District 9 who qualified MOSHOLU They’ve also found persisting school where entry becomes a for the past two years but did Care | pg 11 PRESERVATION years-long goal for parents. The for a G&T program for the past racial inequities in a city where two years. On the first day3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFH of Proudlynot have Serving any programs Bronx becauseCommunities Since 1988FREE CORPORATION minoritiesN dominate. eight-member panel heard from they don’t have enough stu- one of her son’s G&T class, Ti- EWSparents frustrated by a system dents to open a class,” Tidjani The task force,Q jointly led where G&T seats are few in the djani was told that PS 199x The FREE Shakespeare School had can- told panelists, who sat jotting Bronx. celed it for the school year. notes. “According to the DOE, N you have to have at least 25 chil- “When I spoke to the princi- ORWOODdren in order to open a gifted pal she Vol told me30, that No they 6 • were P Q PUBLISHEDand talented class.” UBLISHED BY INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: BYHer M MsonOSHOLU re-took the test, scoring aboveOSHOLU 97 percent, PRESERVATION which TRUMP’S TRAVEL BAN 2.0 | PG. 4 PRESERVATION (continued on page 15) C CORPORATION N ORPORATION EWS • MQ pg 14ARCH 16-29, 2017 RENT ROLLSKNOWING BRONXYOUR LEGAL BARRIERS: RIGHTS | PG. 9 INCREASE SALES When Advertising3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFH In The AwardFREE Winning

BedfordQUESTIONED Park housing group questions legitimacy of tenants’ rent

Elevator Planned For B/D Bedford Pk. Subway Line | pg 6

ORWOODQ EWSQ N PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N

St. Ann’s School Teachers Want The ONLY Newspaper Covering The Stories That Answers | pg 8

SALLY DUNFORD, EXECUTIVE inconsistencies in rent rolls. Concern You In YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Director of West Bronx Housing (r), and her colleague Andrew Laiosa (l), compile ren 3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFHBy DAVIDFREE CRUZ A Bronx tenant’s advo- cacy group claims land- to thoroughly double check lords may be skirting the whether a landlord’s rent Study: Trains Loaded rules by not showing rent- increase on a tenant is jus- Photo by Adi Talwar N stabilized tenants rent listing the help of elected t history forms alleging With Fatty Food Ads ORWOOD tifiable. officials. The group has QP history forms. They’re Pg 11 UBLISHED also claiming the state West Bronx Housing, now zeroed in on an apart- BY headquartered in Bedford tive director of West Bronx MOSHOLU agency tasked to track ment building in River- PRESERVATION Park, has since been col- Housing, has noticed an these rent histories fails dale, where rent histories Proudly Serving Bronx Communities Since 1988 lecting these statements 3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFHuptick in these suspect rent FREE CORPORATION N are suspect. They’re now EWSdubbed histories amid an afford- Q requesting these forms to pick up patternsFL/DR-1.0 while forms en- able housing crisis that’s FREE tenants living in Norwood to making living in New York and Bedford Park. N City, including the Bronx, Sally Dunford, ORWOOD execu- almost impossible for the Vol 30, No 5 • P Q PUBLISHEDworking class. UBLISHED BY M INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: (continuedBY M OSHOLU on page 15) OSHOLU PRESERVATION THE BRONX’S RAT PROBLEM | PG. 4 PRESERVATION CORPORATION N CORPORATIONpg 14 EWS • MQ ARCH 2-15, 2017 NEW RATES FOR 2018! THE CAMPAIGNCIVIC ENGAGEMENTBRONX BARRIERS: CRISIS | PG. 9 TO DOWNZONE Community Board 7 backs downzoning of Mosholu Pkwy. Prices for all sizes CVS to Close in March pg 3 have been DRASTICALLY Fordham Nonproﬁ t Looks Out for Teens pg 7

MOSHOLU PARKWAY NORTH to stymie large scale development. by Van Cortlandt Avenue East (pictured) is among the streets community activists hope to have downzoned By DAVID CRUZ A grassroots effort to limit height restrictions for 3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFHFREE borders as a way to preserve reduced by 30% new buildings along Mosholu its character while stemming Parkway crossed another hur- further development. dle as city officials agreed to munity it will assess the look Photo by Adi Talwar State of the Bronx consider examining downzon- The group won a victory of the neighborhood. A mo- N at the latest CB7 Land Use/ tion presented before the full Blasts City and Trump ORWOOD ing efforts along the parkway turned from what some called Housing Committee meet- Q next year. The move comes board at its Feb. 28 meeting pg 8 PUBLISHED ing on Feb. 15 when the New a nonstarter to a mayoral is- amid Community Board 7’s was passed, with board mem- BY M York City Department of City sue,” civil activist Anthony OSHOLU independent zoning study of bers agreeing to revisit the PRESERVATION Planning (DCP), charged with Rivieccio, who proposed the proposal by the fall. The board Proudly Serving Bronx Communities Since 1988 two neighborhoods within its 3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFHidea for a blanket rezoning of FREE It’s for a limited time only. Inquire CORPORATION N determining the character of first needs to finalize another EWSneighborhoods across the five Mosholu Parkway and its im- Q separate independent study boroughs, assuredFREE the com- mediate side streets, told the it had commissioned last No- Norwood News vember. N The plan, backed. by lo- “InVol five 30, months NoORWOOD 4 it’s • P been cal legislators and residents, QP UBLISHEDUBLISHEDlooks to prevent overdevelop- B BY INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: Y MOSHOLU MOSHOLU (continued P on page P 15) about our free creative setup. BAG FEE BAGGED FOR NOW | PG. 4 RESERVATIONRESERVATION CORPORATION CORPORATION N • Fpg 14 EWS EBRUARYQ 16-M ARCH 1, 2017 ST. ANN SCHOOLA NN-WFUVBRONX COLLABORATION BARRIERS: | PG. 9 TO CLOSE DOORS News comes two years after parish church closed CALL 718-324-4998 or EMAIL

Trump Travel Ban Impacts Norwood pg 5 [email protected]

Veterans Honored At CB7 Breakfast pg 7

STUDENTS AT ST. ANN 2016. Of cials with the Archdiocese announced the school will close at the end of the academic year. School on Bainbridge Avenue at East Gun Hill Road show off their By DAVID CRUZ Nearly three years after the Archdiocese announced its website, the Archdiocese the closure of Shrine Church of New York announced the dance moves at a recruitment pep rally in March of St. Ann, church officials Bainbridge Avenue school at announced it will close St. sure. Photo by Adi Talwar the corner of Gun Hill Road Monte Kicks Off Heart Ann School resting above the will “cease operations at the Many of the parents were now-defunct church, surpris- disappointed with the deci- Month | pg 10 end of the current academic cept. “I know the teachers ing parents who’ve long con- sion to close down the school. year,” citing a cost-saving and I’m comfortable with the sidered the school a major “My little one just started,” analysis. teachers, down to the people said Melissa Martinez, 39. part of their lives. that serve lunch,” said Olivo. Many parents, the bulk of “Now we have to start the In a message posted on whom live in the community, “My child was crying. I was process all over again and were shocked and angry over trying to keep it away from look for another school that the school’s imminent clo- him.” has what we’re looking for.” The school is one of Eric Olivo, 36, said the three Bronx Catholic par- school’s fate is hard to ac- ishes set to close by the end of the school year. “St. Ann

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