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ORWOODQ EWSQ FREE NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 Vol 30, No 21 • PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION • OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 8, 2017 ORWOODQ EWSQ NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014

INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: SEE PICTURES: FALL FOLIAGE | PG. 4 JGHBID FALL FESTIVAL | PG. 11 ARMORY RINK $$$ Choosing the IN FOCUS...AGAIN Candidates | pg 2 State comes back to Bronx to hear locals’ take on $138M loan

VIP’s Diner Café Closes Suddenly | pg 6

Lehman Center Kicks Off 37th Season pg 10

Photo by Aaron Mayorga THE ICE CENTER has long been the pet project of former New York Rangers captain Mark Messier (pictured) who serves as KNIC’s president, shown here in attendance at the Oct. 12 hearing.

By AARON MAYORGA state loan for developers at a estimated to cost $353 million. dents sounded off on the Em- The beleaguered project to hearing. Since receiving the green light pire State Development (ESD) convert the Kingsbridge Ar- The state-mandated hear- from the New York City Council Corporation’s approval of a mory into the world’s largest ing represents a return to in December 2013, the project $138 million loan to KNIC. The ice skating center overcame a square one for backers of the has languished in delays, with 30-year state loan would carry major financing hurdle as resi- Kingsbridge National Ice Cen- construction at the Armory yet a seven percent annual inter- dents and community leaders ter (KNIC), an expected to be to begin. est rate and is earmarked to fi- pg 14 backed a multi-million-dollar state-of-the-art ice rink that is At the Oct. 12 hearing, resi- (continued on page 15) 2 • October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News EDITORIAL Vol. 30, No. 21 Vol. 27, No. 10 NorwoodVol. 27,News 27, No. No.is 10published 10 bi-weekly on Thursdays by Who Will You Hire? MosholuNorwoodNorwood Preservation NewsNews is Corporation ispublished published (MPC) Nov. 7 will be the day you exercise your 3400 Reservoir Oval East Norwoodbi-weekly onNews Thursdays is published by bi-weeklyBronx, New on ThursdaysYork 10467 by right to vote. In the Bronx there are 11 con- Mosholubi-weekly Preservation on Thursdays Corporation by MosholuPhone: Preservation 718 324 4998Corporation tests (not counting citywide), most of which Mosholu3400 PreservationReservoir Oval EastCorporation 3400Fax: Reservoir 718 324 Oval2917 East E-mail: [email protected], Reservoir New York 10467Oval East have already been won, thanks to the power Bronx, New York 10467 Web.:Bronx, www.norwoodnews.org New York 10467 the September primary has on the Bronx. Phone: 718 324 4998 The general election simply formalizes Fax: 718 324 2917 Publisher Phone: 718 324 4998 E-mail: [email protected]: 718 324 4998 those victories. Mosholu PreservationFax: 718 324 Corporation 2917 Web: www.norwoodnews.org The race for Mayor is largely along the E-mail: [email protected]: 718 324 2917 ExecutiveE-mail: [email protected] Director of MPC same line. In the August 31-September 13 Melissa Web:Cebollero www.norwoodnews.org Web: www.norwoodnews.org edition of the Norwood News, we wrote DirectorPublisher of MPC CEO, Mosholu that the incumbent, Mayor Bill de Blasio, JenniferMosholu Tausig Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQ Corporation Corporation is likely going to win the general election Photos courtesy individual campaigns PublisherEditor-in-Chief, NorwoodRobertoCEO, News S. Mosholu Garcia PublisherEditor-in-Chief CEO, Mosholu THE CANDIDATES FOR Mayor include (l-r) incumbent Democrat Bill de Blasio, Re- MosholuDavid Cruz, Preservation [email protected] 3UHVHUYDWLRQ namely since the two challengers, Repub- MosholuDavid Cruz Preservation Corporation Corporation3UHVHUYDWLRQ lican Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis, publican challenger Nicole Malliotakis and Independent Party candidate Bo Dietl. AccountsCorporation Receivable Corporation Editor-in-ChiefDawn&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ McEvoy Roberto S. Garcia and Independent Richard “Bo” Dietl, carry Editor-in-Chief Roberto S. Garcia DavidProofreaderDawn Cruz McEvoy very little support. Plus, the current antag- partment of Education to determine mis- bad old days of police corruption, where JudyDavid$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH Noy Cruz onism towards President Donald Trump management of its contracts, investing in knucklehead officers used the badge to run Dawn McEvoy &ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJInterns doesn’t help much as both of de Blasio’s senior housing, and assigning independent- their own criminal enterprises). This quix- Diego&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJProofreader Barcacel Peña, Stephanie Luciano, rivals were shown to have voted for Mr. minded officials to the MTA board. Her so- otic run deserves more scrutiny. Does his DawnJudy McEvoy Noy YaraDawn Palin, McEvoy Aaron Mayorga Trump nearly a year ago. lution to fix the homeless crisis by building raucous, flippant and troglodytic presenta- $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH3URGXFWLRQ Regular$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOHNeil deMause Contributors more supportive and affordable housing is tion remind voters of anyone? DawnDavid McEvoy Greene, Adi Talwar Dawn5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV McEvoy With a week to go before the general merely putting a Band-Aid to the overall Proofreader ContributorProofreaderDavid Greene, Adi Talwar election, here’s a quick breakdown of the issue of homeless who are mentally ill. Her Let’s put our take aside. What are your JudyMiriam Noy Quinones JudyInterns Noy candidates: name recognition is extremely slim. Hon- thoughts on the general election? Who will 3URGXFWLRQShayla Love, Paolo Mossetti, Justin McCallum, estly, how many New Yorkers knew about you vote for? It’s a question that should be on Neil3URGXFWLRQandFor deMause Chelsea Display George Advertising Neil deMauseCall (718) 324-4998 De Blasio: De Blasio has pounded the Malliotakis before she ascended to grab the the minds of the borough’s 795,402 registered 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUVFor display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. drum on progressive politics that have in- Republican nomination for mayor? She’s voters from across all party lines including David5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV Greene, Adi Talwar cluded major reforms within the NYPD, stuck to the eastern section of the Bronx, the the very fringe. Unfortunately, the prospect SupportDavidSupport Greene, Your Adi Talwar Interns mental health system, and housing matters. most Republican sections when compared of voting was only on the minds of 71,084 vot- ShaylaCommunityInternsCommunity Love, Paolo Newspaper!Newspaper! Mossetti, Justin McCallum, The Norwood NewsLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE- His platform over the last four years have ei- to the rest of the borough. But to win, some- ers, or 8.9 percent, this past primary in the TheShayla Norwood Love, News Paolo is a Mossetti,not-for-profi Justin t publication McCallum, andlication Chelsea and relies George upon the support of its and reliesChelsea upon George the support of its advertisers ther caused him to gain or lose supporters. times candidates should get out of their com- Bronx. advertisers and readers to produce a quality and readers to produce a quality community community newspaper. To support your paper, In the Bronx, we hear less positive things fort zone. There’s a quote from Ray Kroc, the Fornewspaper. display advertising, To support callyour (718) paper, 324-4998. become Forbecome display a member advertising, and receive call (718)a subscription 324-4998. said about de Blasio and more antagonism founder of McDonald’s, who said, “You are a member and receive a subscription for one for one year. Supportyear. Your lobbed at him, mainly for his propensity to Dietl: It’s hard to tell whether Dietl has only as good as the people you hire.” SupportSimply mail checkYour or money order for $40 dump homeless shelter after homeless shel- an actual agenda or if he’s shooting from the In a way, voting is a type of hiring. It’s CommunitySimply mail check Newspaper! or money order for $40 to: Communityto: Norwood News, Newspaper! 3400 Reservoir Oval East, ter in a borough that’s already saturated hip. The Independent candidate (who voted prevalent in the phrasing of candidates who TheNorwoodBronx, Norwood NY News, 10467. News 3400 LVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE Reservoir Oval East,- licationBronx,The Norwood NYand 10467. relies News uponLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE the support of its - with them. He is not your blue collar mayor, Republican but says he’s a registered Dem- feel they are “the right person for the job.” advertiserslicationNorwood and News and relies isreaders not upon responsible theto produce support for typo aof- quality its but one edging towards elitism ripe with an ocrat) shared very little ideas at the first So the question goes: Who do you want to Norwood News is not responsible for communityadvertisersgraphical errors. newspaper.and readersOpinions To expressedto supportproduce in your signed a quality paper, I-know-what’s-best-for-you mentality that mayoral debate, opting to randomly shout hire? typographicalcommunityletters and bylinednewspaper. errors. columns Opinions To represent support expressed the your sole paper, in becomesigned letters a member and bylinedand receive columns a subscription represent has turned off working class Bronx resi- toothless counter-arguments that turned In a nation freer than most countries becomeopinion aof memberthe author and arereceive not necessarily a subscription forthe thoseone sole year.of opinion Mosholu ofPreservation the author Corporations and are not dents. But as the Norwood News said before, the debate into a circus (it wasn’t helped by around the world, the power behind voting necessarilyfor one year. those of Mosholu Preservation RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS- de Blasio will win this one. cheers and jeers from the faceless crowd). should be commonplace. You have the power SimplyCorporationresent mail the views check or Montefi of theor moneyeditor ore and/or orderMedical publisher for Center.$40 Editorials represent the views of the editor His official website for mayor is vague on to decide who wants to run you. So use it. to:Simply only.Norwood The mail newspaper checkNews, or3400 reserves money Reservoir the order right toforOval limit $40 East, only.to:or Norwood refuse The newspaper advertising News, it3400 deemsreserves Reservoir objectionable. the right Oval East, Malliotakis: Malliotakis presents a ideas or outright ludicrous (his proposal But if the numbers seem to indicate any- Bronx,to Advertisementslimit NYor refuse10467. appearing advertising in this it paper deems cannot Bronx, NY 10467. largely general Republican agenda that to nix the two-year college requirement for thing, voters will once again stay home. In- objectionable.be used without Advertisements the written permission appearing of Nor- Norwoodin thiswood paper News. News Letterscannot is not to be theresponsible usededitor arewithout subject for typo - includes auditing the New York City De- NYPD officers could open the door for the cumbents seem to love that. graphicaltheNorwoodto written condensation errors.News permission andisOpinions not editing. responsible of theWritersexpressed Norwood should for intypo signed- LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ lettersNews.graphical andLetters errors. bylined to Opinionsthe columns editor expressed representare subject inthe tosigned sole condensationlettersAnonymous and bylined letters and are editing.columns not published Writers represent but should your the sole opinionname canof the be withheldauthor andif requested. are not necessarily includeopinion theirof the affi author liation and or arespecial not necessarilyinterest if thoseany. Anonymous of Mosholu lettersPreservation are not Corporations published those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHSbut your name can be withheld upon - Public and Community Meetings resentrequest.RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS the views of the editor and/or publisher- Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a COMMUNITY BOARD 7 committee meetings are held on the following dates at the board office, 229 E. 204th 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. St., at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted: Economic Development Committee meets on Oct. 31; Community Rela- Advertisementsor refuse advertising appearing it deems in this objectionable. paper cannot tions and Long Term Planning Committee meets on Oct. 31 at 7:30 p.m.; Environment and Sanitation Committee beMosholuAdvertisements used without Preservation theappearing written Corporation inpermission this paper is a of non-cannot Nor- meets on Nov. 1; Education, Youth and Libraries Committee meets on Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m.; Traffic and Transporta- profibe used t support without corporation the written permissionof Montefi oreof Nor- wood News. Letters to the editor are subject tion Committee meets on Nov. 2; Veterans Committee meets on Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m.; Public Safety and Quality of Medicalwood News. Center. Letters to the editor are subject to condensation and editing. Writers should Life Committee meets on Nov. 7; Senior Services Committee meets on Nov. 7; and Parks & Recreation Committee to condensation and editing. Writers should LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ meets on Nov. 8. For more information, call (718) 833-5650. 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. BEDFORD MOSHOLU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION meets Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. at 400 E. Mosholu Pkwy., Apt. B#1. For more information, email [email protected].

Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a QRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUHMosholu Preservation Corporation is a MedicalQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH Center. Medical Center. October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News • 3

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1Annual percent yield (APY). Early withdrawal penalties apply on CD accounts. APY displayed is as of October 20, 2017. 2Any ATM part of the Allpoint ATM Network. Allpoint locations can be found on the bank's website using the Find ATM / Branch Search Feature. 3For more information visit www.ridgewoodbank.com/rewards. 4Data and surcharge rates may apply. 4 • October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER By DAVID GREENE This week we asked readers the best locations to enjoy the fall foliage in the Bronx and beyond.

I would say by the Bronx Zoo. I also I come down through Allerton and It’s not there yet, but it’s getting Mostly I see it when my wife and I go I recommend going to any park in the know they have a spot in Yonkers, I see the leaves changing by the there. Yesterday I went upstate to on the Saw Mill River Parkway and we Bronx because the trees are in bloom, but I’m not sure of the exact location. Botanical Garden and coming up Highland, New York, and to see all of see it’s so beautiful, all the different the leaves are turning color and the Also going towards Throggs Neck Mosholu Parkway North and that’s all the mountains along the highway. The colors and everything, and I really air is very crisp this time of year. It’s in some spots; there are some really I see right now, but it’s beautiful. It’s trees were just looking like bushes enjoy it this time of year. The weather not only beautiful, but I think being nice spots along Pelham Parkway; very beautiful, the leaves changing of all different colors--orange, red, is unbelievable; we’re getting Indian in these surroundings is very healthy. going towards City Island is really color. The weather is gorgeous; it’s green. They were all over the place, summer and it’s fantastic. We starting It gives you a calmness and peace nice. This time last year there was ice crazy weather. We could wear shorts so colorful. to see a little change here in Van of mind. on the ground, so we get to embrace and it’s the end of October. Patricia Montanez Cortlandt Park. Dave Piatnik the surroundings and get to smell Randy Rivera Michael Elliott Norwood Highbridge the trees a little bit longer and enjoy Bedford Park Norwood Mother Nature. Ronald McDaniel Throggs Neck October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News • 5 Three Hurt in Decatur Ave. Blaze Push for Street Renaming By DAVID GREENE A private three-story home on After Late CB7 DM Decatur Avenue remains empty By DAVID CRUZ following a fast-moving fire that Community Board 7 is now among injured one person, a firefighter the groups supporting a move to re- and a paramedic. name a street after the late Andrew According to fire officials, Sandler, who died in August af- the fire broke out on Oct. 12 ter serving a year and a half as the at 7:30 a.m., on the second floor of Photo by Liana Perez board’s district manager. 3080 Decatur Ave. between East BILLOWING SMOKE AND ame At its general board meeting, CB7 204th Street and Mosholu Park- shoot through the roof of a home on members unanimously approved a let- Decatur Avenue. way North in Norwood. The street ter of support to be sent to Councilman comprises three-story homes Andrew Cohen backing a proposal to mixed with residences six stories ics responded from 25 units from rename a street after Sandler. Sup- or more. across the borough. porters want the street renaming to One resident remembered Firefighters were able to pre- happen in the vicinity of 238th Street emergency crews rushing to the vent the fire from spreading to a and Waldo Avenue, the Riverdale scene. “The fire trucks woke me neighboring six-story apartment streets where Sandler was raised. up and I came outside and the fire building on one side. A similar Community Board 8, the local was coming out the roof,” said the home on the other side did sustain board which covers the neighborhood resident, who pulled out his cell some damage to its aluminum sid- Sandler grew up in, had already sent phone to show video of the flames ing and the roof. The city Depart- its letter of support to Cohen. Usu- ANDREW SANDLER and billowing smoke coming from ment of Buildings (DOB) imme- ally, CB8 waits two years after some- the home. diately issued a full vacate order one has passed to make a request for letters help build traction for support The three injured were rushed barring occupants from coming a street renaming on the departed’s of such requests. Cohen and Sandler to the hospital with minor inju- back to their home. behalf; though they’ve made an excep- shared a working relationship when ries. The one home appeared to have tion this time. Sandler was Cohen’s director of con- One FDNY official suspected been completely gutted on the in- The request will go to the New stituent services before moving on as the fire to have started on the sec- side and members of the DOB York City Council, which pools its re- the CB7 district manager. The board ond floor of the home and entered were already on the scene. quests of street renamings under one covers Norwood, Bedford Park, Kings- into a shaft, which explained the An official from the American bill. They are usually voted on in De- bridge Heights, Fordham and Univer- rapid climb of the fire. Residents Red Cross said she had applica- cember and take effect in the spring sity Heights. say fire shot through the roof tions on eight adults who were left should the mayor approve it. A cer- Sandler was admired for his com- within minutes of residents first homeless from the blaze. emony often takes place to unveil the mitment to the helping the commu- seeing smoke. The FDNY’s Fire Marshall street renaming. nity. He died on Aug. 5 from cancer. The FDNY press office reports continues to investigate the cause City rules don’t require letters of He was 31. His funeral was attended 106 firefighters and paramed- of the blaze. support for a street renaming. The by several hundred people.

HEALTH CHECK Diabetes and Strength Training By SHERIN JOSE, MPH, CHES sit-ups, and squats. late blood sugar levels better. are also very important when per- Most people accept that aerobic • Creating a simple weightlifting 3. Protection against diabetic forming physical activity. activity is an important part of dia- workout using things around the complications. Regular exercise 3. Receive regular foot care. Dia- betes management. Research now house like water bottles or soup cans can lower blood pressure, keep cho- betics require careful and detailed shows that combining a routine of in place of traditional dumbbells. lesterol levels on target, reduce risk foot care due to effects of blood aerobic and strength training exer- of heart disease, and improve bone flow and nerve damage. It is recom- cises can lead to better outcomes. There are benefits to regular ac- density. mended that you check feet for sores The American Diabetes Asso- tivity. These include: or cuts after every workout. Also be ciation suggests doing some type of 1.Weight loss. Increasing your Things to Consider: sure to visit a podiatrist. All types strength training at least two times activity can lead to the better abil- 1. Get clearance from your med- of exercise can put pressure on your a week. Some examples of strength ity of your muscle to store glucose, ical provider. This is important feet and can increase chance of in- training activities include: making your body better able to con- when starting any type of exercise jury. Speak to your medical pro- • Using weight machines or free trol sugar levels and helping with routine. vider on proper socks and footwear. weights at a workout facility. weight loss. 2. Ask for help. This is especially • Training with resistance 2.Increase of lean muscle true if you want to adopt a different Editor’s Note: Sherin Jose is bands. mass. More lean muscle mass helps or new exercise routine. Proper pos- a health educator with Montefiore • Doing exercises that use your your body by boosting your metabo- ture and form is important to avoid Health System’s Office of Community own body weight such as pushups, lism and can help your body regu- injury. Proper breathing techniques & Population Health. 6 • October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News VIP’s Café Closes In Its 20th Year By YARA PALIN and DAVID CRUZ few eateries in Norwood where he For the last 20 years, VIP’s Café could sit and grab a quick bite to eat. in Norwood stood as one of the neigh- The timing of the diner’s closure borhood’s few diners, offering a con- was unfortunate for Brenda Caldwell, venient eating experience at cheap president of the 52nd Precinct Com- prices. munity Council, who was planning It struck everyone as sudden when the council’s yearly fellowship break- they saw the doors to the family- fast, which is normally catered by the owned diner closed for good, adding diner. “I was just there a week ago, to the list of familiar locales in Nor- and I was surprised to see it all sealed wood that have closed this year. up and everything,” she says. “I can’t With its large panel windows cov- believe they’re gone. It’s gonna be a ered in brown paper, a handwrit- real impact.” ten sign hung at the doorway reads The restaurant, part of a six-story “Closed for Renovation.” The sign property at the corner of East Gun runs counter to what Google Maps Hill Road and Rochambeau Avenue, is wrote on its website— “permanently owned by Mosholu Preservation Cor- closed.” Meantime, no paperwork poration, publishers of the Norwood from the New York City Department News. Steve Larous, who’s owned the of Buildings suggests any work is or Photo by Yara Palin restaurant since it opened in 1997, de- will be performed. Storeowners in VIP’S CAFÉ AT 131 E. Gun Hill Road closed its doors in early October. clined to comment. and around the eatery say they have VIP’s Café is the third neighbor- not seen any work being done in the café, characterized the place as “su- close by.” Why the restaurant sud- hood institution to close over the past last two weeks since the café closed. per busy” during the lunch hour. denly closed is confusing for Fitzger- year. Early this year, the Archdiocese On Oct. 17 at around noon, usually “We all went,” Vazzana recalls. ald. of New York announced that the sto- lunchtime for many employees at the “We all loved it.” Dr. Lee Isaacsohn of Montefiore ried St. Ann’s Catholic School would nearby Montefiore Medical Center, Mary Fitzgerald, a registered says he was pretty “bummed out” close in the summer of 2017 after 88 workers were caught off guard by the nurse for the hospital praised the over the diner’s closure, adding he years. Meantime, the CVS Pharmacy unexpected closing. Dr. Joseph Vaz- diner’s merits as “cooking a lot of would frequent the place for team at the corner of East Gun Hill Road zana, a surgeon who often ate at the fresh food, reasonably priced, and breakfasts because it was one of the and Reservoir Place closed in March. Report: DeWitt Clinton High School Cycling the Bronx Staff to Reapply for Jobs By YARA PALIN cipal Santiago Rivera was removed Staffers at the troubled DeWitt for fixing grades of failing students. Clinton High School in Norwood will The current principal, Pierre Orbe, have to reapply for their jobs, accord- is still employed although he has also ing to a published report. The New been accused of grade-changing, ac- York Post says a total of 98 teachers, cording to the New York Post. guidance counselors, social workers, Janella Hinds, Vice President of and paraprofessionals will have to re- the United Federation of Teachers, interview for their positions begin- thinks that the Department of Educa- ning next spring, along with 128 staff tion (DOE) has to establish a better members at Flushing High School in relationship between labor and man- Queens. agement. She says, “More than half of DeWitt Clinton High School has the total of 413 teachers who were in remained on the Renewal School list, [DeWitt and Flushing] four years ago where problem schools face state in- have moved on, but the UFT has had tervention because of low academic to file dozens of grievances and other success. The list was created in objections after principals created 2014 and currently includes 77 other oversized classes or other violations schools. of the union contract.” The school has been plagued with New York City Department of Ed-

consistently poor student perfor- ucation Chancellor Carmen Fariña Photo by Miriam Quinones mance, such as a 43 percent gradua- tells the Post, “This re-staffing pro- CYCLISTS BIKE PAST the intersection of Goulden and Paul avenues during tion rate in 2016, and below state aver- cess is the necessary next step in the the annual Tour de Bronx, a 25- or 40-mile journey across the borough, de- age test scores and college readiness, work to turn around these schools.” pending on what route riders opted for. The daylong tour spanned some 60 according to Great Schools, an educa- The DOE, as well as school staffing neighborhoods, wrapping up at the New York Botanical Garden. Montefiore tion website. It has also faced several committees, will have the final say Health System was the major sponsor for the event, which drew several thou- scandals. Just last year, former prin- on who can keep their job. sand cyclists from around the world. October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News • 7 Monte’s “Say It With Flowers” Exhibit Aims to Ease Anxiety

By DIEGO BARCACEL PEÑA buying flowers for his wife, flowers In the corridor along the radia- given to a son during his graduation, tion oncology department on the first and a woman buying flowers for God floor of Montefiore Medical Center, a as a way of saying thank you for a collection of photos line the walls of beautiful life. the hallway featuring everyday peo- Many nurses have had to pass ple holding flowers. through the hall to send patients to The images are intended to calm the radiation therapy clinic, quickly the nerves of those whose anxiety noticing the change in their faces af- kicks up at the facility where results ter passing through the hall. “The can be life altering. walls were just plain and bare. Now The photos were taken by Linda there’s something new and fresh,” Stillman as part of an exhibit dubbed said nurse Ruthlyn Merrick. “Say It With Flowers” presented by “It doesn’t feel like you’re at a hos- the hospital’s Fine Art Program and pital. It feels like you’re at home, it’s Collection. relaxing,” said Paulette Edwards, an- “You may be going to your physi- other nurse. cian for a procedure [and] you are ner- Montefiore hopes that Stillman’s vous or fearful,” said Jodi Moise, cu- exhibit can benefit everyone. rator of the program. “Then you walk Photo by Diego Barcacel Peña “We have physicians, staff, and through the gallery, even if it’s for a A VISITOR OBSERVES photos hung at the “Say It With Flowers” exhibit at Montefi ore a lot of medical students, as well as minute and you’re transported some- Medical Center in Norwood. family members and caregivers,” where else and hopefully your fear or Moise noted. “So it’s really the larger distress level has been reduced.” ers. “It’s about capturing a moment,” Stillman photographed many of community that benefits from having Stillman is a conceptual artist Stillman said of her project inside the her subjects around the Bronx, in- the artwork in the hospital.” based in Columbia County in New Montefiore Moses Campus in Nor- cluding Lehman College and the York, and inspired by the work of wood. “It’s just a chance where I am, Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improve- Editor’s Note: “Say It With Flow- abstract painters. For her latest proj- [my works] are united by love of na- ment District, in addition to other ers” can be viewed at Montefiore’s Mo- ect, she utilized an iPhone camera to ture [and] my trying to keep track of New York City neighborhoods. She ses Campus, 111 E. 210th St., through snap photos of people holding flow- fleeting moments.” captured moments like a husband Jan. 26, 2018.

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SARAH SESSA, 83 member for 8 months

NEW LOOK, SAME GREAT SARAH.

ELDERSERVE HEALTH IS NOW

NEW NAME, SAME GREAT CARE.

RiverSpringHealthPlans.org October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News • 9

SARAH SESSA, 83 member for 8 months

NEW LOOK, SAME GREAT SARAH.

ELDERSERVE HEALTH IS NOW

NEW NAME, SAME GREAT CARE.

RiverSpringHealthPlans.org 10 • October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News

Photo courtesy Lehman Center for the Performing Arts THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED performance by the National Orchestra of Cuba (pictured) is slated for March 18, 2018. Lehman Center Opens 37th Season With New Acts By DIEGO BARCACEL PEñA Bornstein fled the gray-toned land- then President Barack Obama lifted draw 2,310 people in the Bronx?’” When Eva Bornstein, executive di- scape of Communist-era Poland by a half century of barred relations be- She hopes to draw younger the- rector of the Lehman Performing Arts working as a movie actress that allowed tween Cuba and the U.S. atergoers to performances through a Center, arrived to the Bronx in 2005, her to get a visa to France. In the Bronx, “It’s such a great orchestra,” said $10,000 grant by Con Edision that al- her exposure to the Latin community she sees almost all colors except gray. Bornstein. “The fact that it’s a new fron- lows the theater to charge $10 for chil- was limited. Back then, she didn’t know “Look at this place. I picked those red tier that Cuban country is becoming dren age 12 and under. With teenagers the Spanish translation for “thank you” cupboards,” said Bornstein pointing at open now—for me, it’s exciting that I spending more time on social media, (it’s “gracias”). Gradually, she took into the red cupboards that are around her am one of the very few people that starts luring them to the theater is a hard consideration the borough’s diversity, office and the Lehman Center. “I see a this Cuban trend.” sell. But Bornstein remains optimis- zeroing in on the Bronx’s large Puerto lot of blue for hope, red for love. I am a The center is a unique nonprofit tic. Rican population, which stands at very optimistic person, [and] this job al- since it’s largely revenue-driven, with “There’s nothing like seeing a live around 300,000. lows me to be very optimistic.” 90 percent of its earning originating show and being part of a group of Bornstein learned early on that for The Center is celebrating its 37th from ticket sales, rentals, concessions. people,” said Bornstein. “I want the her to survive anywhere as a theater season with 30 acts from around the These days, the annual budget stands at younger people to continue the tradi- director, she would have to play to the globe. Many of these acts are popular $3 million, unlike before Bornstein ar- tion of the older generation and be hu- interests of community demograph- Latin artists such as the Spanish Har- rived, which saw its budget at $700,000. man, not robots.” ics. Before coming to Lehman College, lem Orchestra and Eliot Revé and his Bornstein has always based her she was the first director to reopen the Charangón, who will be performing on programming on the interests of the Editor’s Note: Lehman Center for Bergen Performance Art Center in En- Oct. 28, and the National Symphony Or- Bronx. It’s had its pluses and minuses, the Performing Arts is located at 250 glewood, NJ. “This was a very affluent chestra of Cuba, scheduled to perform particularly when the question comes Bedford Park Blvd. W. It’s accessible via community, so the programming focus at the center on March 18, 2018. of whether to change things up. “I the No. 10 bus and the B, D, and 4 sub- was totally different. We had to bring Each year the Center presents about get a lot of calls from people [asking], way lines, and is off the Saw Mill River headliners from all walks of life,” said 30 to 33 events, while renting out the ‘Why don’t you bring so and so?’” she Parkway and the Major Deegan Ex- Bornstein. “There wasn’t such a con- concert hall to different organizations. recalled. “And my answer is, ‘will they pressway. Parking is available for $5. centration on Latinos. We focused on “So we are not only home to famous art- wealthy Americans, period.” So when ists, but we also make the venue avail- she started working at Lehman Col- able to community groups for various lege, she shifted her focus from wealthy purposes,” said Bornstein. “[L]et’s say Americans to the Latino population of you want to do a benefit for a Puerto Ri- the Bronx. can organization, you can come to me “The only person I knew was Jose and you can rent the venue and present Feliciano because he is a cross-over your concert,” she said. artist,” said Bornstein, referring to the These days, booking Latino acts has famed Puerto Rican-born salsero. “So I become tough work. “In 2005, not many had to learn from my Puerto Rican com- directors considered Latino program- munity who these artists really are.” ming very important. But as they dis- It’s understanding the audience covered that the Latin population grew, where Bornstein molds the center’s the communities—they will come,” said lineup of acts each season. Bornstein. “Suddenly, they said, ‘We Bornstein has presented acts from better book some Latino shows’ [and] all over the world, but in the beginning, they started copying our ideas and we she concentrated mainly on the Puerto have much more competition now than Rican population, establishing the Cen- we used to.” File Photo/Adi Talwar ter as “La Casa de la Salsa.” “In other One of her more coveted gets this BEHIND THE SCENES at the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts is Executive words, we became famous for our salsa year is the National Orchestra of Cuba, Director Eva Bornstein (pictured), a Polish native balancing the cultural needs of the concert[s],” said Bornstein. an act she couldn’t secure until after Bronx for more than 10 years Bronx DA to Investigate NYPD Shooting Death of Unarmed Senior October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News • 11 Fall Festival Photos by Sterling Diaz, for the Jerome-Gun Hill BID FROM A LIVE concert to a pumpkin painting station, on Oct. 14, the 16th annual Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improvement District’s Fall Festival had something for everyone. Brick and mortar merchants stood alongside street vendors presenting their wares at the family-friendly event that also included a beer garden. Monteﬁ ore Health System, HealthFirst, Ridgewood Savings Bank, New York Daily News and United Healthcare were among the major sponsors.

1) MEMBERS OF THE choral group Music with a Message sing their 1 hearts out at the festival.

2) THIS LITTLE GIRL spends some time at the Pumpkins for Puerto Rico table, where proceeds for every pumpkin painted went to recovery ef- forts to the island ravaged by Hurri- cane Maria. 3) ASSEMBLYMAN JEFF DINOWITZ (at mic), who represents the Norwood area, speaks to guests at the festival 2 after receiving a recognition award for his service to the community. To the right is Jennifer Tausig, BID executive director, and DJ Krazy Rob, who emceed the event. 4) (L-R) MELISSA CEBOLLERO, senior director of Mosholu Preservation Corporation and senior director of Montefi ore Health System’s Offi ce of Community & Government Relations; Jennifer Tausig, executive director of the BID; and Senator Jamaal Bailey, representing Norwood, share a moment. Bailey presented a proclamation 3 4 to Tausig praising the BID. 5) THUMBS UP! Workers with El Princ- ipe Express, serving up sizzling fast food, pause for a picture.

6) THIS ENORMOUS SLIDE is no match for this little girl primed to shoot down it.

5 6 12 • October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News Classiﬁ eds Professional Directory

PEDIATRIC SERVICES /JGHBIZ Tiga Pediatrics 3510 Bainbridge Avenue, Suite 5, Bronx, NY 10467. Ages 0 to 21 years. General Practice, Obesity, Asthma, ADHD Same-Day Appointment Every Day! (718) 881-8999

COMPUTER SERVICES BIGTHROUGHOUT SAVINGS THE JEROME-GUN HILL AREA! COME SHOP & SAVE BIG ALL YEAR ROUND Computer Repair Upgrade, troubleshooting, laptop overheats, cracked screen, Over 200 Stores on Jerome Avenue from Mosholu to broken power jack, virus removal,data recovery. Call James Gun Hill Road and on Gun Hill Road to Webster Avenue (646) 281-4475, (718) 324-4332. Discover the Stores, Quality Service and Savings at the Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improvement District. BEAUTY SERVICES Where Good Neighbors Deserve Great Shopping! All in a Safe, Clean & Come to Madame P’s Beauty World. Friendly Environment We specialize in haircutting, hair care, hair coloring, all relaxers, Wave Call the Nouveau, weaving to stimulate hair growth and carefree curls. We also BID Hotline at 718-324-4946 offer press and curl. 20% off for seniors. 10% off for college students with for more information or visit us at picture ID. 617 E. Fordham Road (Fordham University section). www.jeromegunhillbid.org Call today for your appointment: (347) 284-3834.

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

Epiphany Lutheran Church A PLACE OF GRACE IN NORWOOD 3127 Decatur Ave., Bronx, NY Phone: (718) 652-6839 Web Site: www.epiphanybx.org WORSHIP - Sundays at noon BIBLE STUDY - Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. THRIFT SHOP - Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America God’s work -- our hands TRIPS

Kancella’s Travel & Tours: Trip to Nordic Lodge Restaurant, Rhode Island and Fox- woods Casino on Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017. Depart at 8:30 a.m. from 940 Southern Blvd. and 163rd Street, Bronx. 2-Hour All-You-Can-Eat buffet at Nordic Lodge, Foxwoods Casino bonus buffet and $10 Keno play, and shopping at Tanger Outlet Mall on premises. $179.00 per person - $50 deposit required ASAP. For reservation and to purchase tickets, please contact Eddie at (718) 757-5485 or Kancella’s Tours at (347) 405-2017. Eddie Rosa’s Enterprises Trip to Six Flags Great Adventure – “Halloween Fright Fest” in Jackson, NJ on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017. Depart at 11 a.m. from 940 Southern Blvd. and 163rd Street, Bronx. Return- ing at 9 p.m. Price $89.00 per person - $40 deposit required ASAP. For reservation and to purchase tickets, please contact Eddie at (718) 757-5485. FOR SALE

Time share for sale – “Flagship All Suites Resorts” Atlantic City. Close to all casinos. Studio apartment. SPECIAL PRICE $5,000.00. For more information, please contact Ed- die Rosa at (718) 757-5485. October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News • 13

NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES

Free WiFi for Students Lead Paint Reduction The New York Public Library Applications for a grant up to offers free WiFi for eligible stu- $10,000 to remove lead paint from dents in kindergarten through apartments are available through 12th grade who don’t have WiFi the Lead Hazard Reduction and at home. A lending event, where Healthy Homes – Primary Preven- hotspot devices can be checked out tion Program. In exchange for help, for free, takes place Nov. 2 at 6 p.m. owners must agree to rent any at The Bronx Library Center, 310 new vacant apartments to low or E. Kingsbridge Rd. A valid library very low-income tenants, giving card and pre-registration are re- priority to families with young quired. For more information, children. For more information, call (718) 579-4244 or visit http:// call Sarah Hovde, director of the hotspot.nypl.org/. Primary Prevention Program, at (212) 863-8860. Library Fines Waived The New York Public Library Hurricane Relief Drive has waived all library fines for The Office of Senator Gustavo children 17 and younger. High Rivera is holding a relief drive for school students age 18 and over victims of Hurricane Maria. Items can stop by their local library to urgently needed include baby have their fines waived. The initia- food, diapers, batteries, first aid tive takes place at every library on kits, and feminine hygiene prod- specific dates through Nov. 2. For ucts. To donate, stop by the of- more information, contact your lo- fice at 2432 Grand Concourse, 5th cal library. floor, and drop their donations off TRIP at room 506 or the FEDCAP office Love Your Block at rooms 516 and 517, weekdays Applications for a $1,000 grant from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more in- to support resident-led volunteer formation, call (718) 933-2034. projects to improve public spaces are available through Nov. 6 by the Job Recruitment Events New York City Service and Citizens A free pop-up recruitment Committee. For more information, events where job seekers can meet go to nyc.gov/loveyourblock. with potential employees will take place on Nov. 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 Gifted and Talented Exam p.m. at the Jerome Park Library, Requests to test children enter- 118 Eames Place (near Kings- ing kindergarten, 1st, 2nd or 3rd bridge Road). Attendees are asked grade, for the Gifted & Talented to bring plenty of resumes and exam, can be made through Nov. 13 dress professionally. For more by going online at schools.nyc.gov/ information, call (718) 549-5200. ApplyOnline, in person at their In addition, job seekers can meet public school, or at their school with a career coach, get free re- district’s Family Welcome Center. sume help, and participate in for- For more information, call (718) mal mock interviews. To schedule 935-2009. an appointment, call (718) 549-4260 or email [email protected]. CCRB Meeting The Civilian Complaint Review BID Survey Board, which hears allegations of The Jerome-Gun Hill Business abuse of residents by members of Improvement District is conduct- the NYPD, will hold a public meeting a survey through November to ing on Nov. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at Bronx determine what stores are needed Community College, 2155 Univer- for the neighborhood business sity Ave. Organizers ask the pub- strip on Jerome Avenue between lic to hear and share ideas on what Mosholu Parkway and East Gun works and doesn’t work regard- Hill Road and East Gun Hill Road ing police-community relations between Jerome and Webster av- in their neighborhood. For more enues. To take part in the survey, information, visit www.nyc.gov/ go to http://bit.ly/2ffXnfg. ccrb. 14 • October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News

Compiled by JUDY NOY EDITOR’S PICK

Happy Halloween The Jerome-Gun Hill BID invites the public to its Halloween Dance Party and Parade, Oct. 31 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Meet at Mosholu Parkway and Jerome Avenue. There will be free candy, music and pumpkins. For more Photo courtesy Wave Hill information, call (718) 324-4646. (See “Halloween Events” HAVE A MOMENT of Zen at Wave Hill through a variety of events (see under below for more.) Events for more information).

The Bronx County Historical Society presents 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Come in costume; prize RSVP, contact [email protected]. special Archtober Tour of the Valentine- given for best dressed ($5/cover; ages Onstage Varian House, 3266 Bainbridge Ave. (208th 21+). Featured are prizes and candy and The public is invited to attend the Memorial Street), Oct. 27 from noon to 1:30 p.m. to see performances by upcoming artists. For more The Williamsbridge Oval presents Grove Restoration Group’s 11th Annual the current exhibitions. For more information, information, call (347) 396-0555. Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale, Nov. 4 at 1 Veterans Day Ceremony on Nov. 5 at call (718) 881-8900. p.m. in the Rec Center. For more information noon, at the Memorial on Broadway at West and to RSVP, call (718) 543-8672. 246th Street, to honor veterans of all wars. Library Events Speakers have been invited to attend. The Halloween Events Events Van Cortlandt Park WWII Memorial Grove was The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge initiated in 1949 and currently contains 40 The Williamsbridge Oval presents the Rd., presents for children: Hands on Projects following free events: Haunted House (for (ages 7 to 12; preregistration required): The Williamsbridge Oval offers a variety of monuments. For more information, call (718) ages 10+), to be spooked by ghosts, zombies Halloween Bag Making, Oct. 26 at 4 p.m.; and free classes for youth ages 6 to 12, after 548-6832. and creatures, Oct. 27 from 7 to 9 p.m.; and Ghost Making, Oct. 29 at 3:30 p.m. Teens/ school and Saturdays, including drama, Pumpkin Party (to age 12 years), to enjoy young adults can enjoy Halloween Party: to sports, dance, art and more. For more Wave Hill, a Bronx oasis at 675 W. 252nd arts and crafts, carnival games, prizes, and watch spooky movie, decorate pumpkins, information and a detailed schedule, call (718) St. in Riverdale, offers Family Art Projects: candy, Oct. 31 from 4 to 6 p.m. For more come in costume, receive free book, Oct. 543-8672. Spider Web Fashion, to hear tales about special spiders and make little spiders, Oct. information, call (718) 543-8672. 31 at 6 p.m.; Magic: to learn fundamentals (cards will be supplied), Nov. 1 at 4 p.m.; The public is invited to the 52nd Precinct 28 and 29; and Autumn Color Papermaking, The New York Botanical Garden presents Books/Movies: to read a book monthly, Community Council’s breakfast at Monroe to make colorful paper into a leaf shape, Nov. Scarecrows and Pumpkins, through Oct. then watch movie. November: “Divergent,” College, 2501 Jerome Ave., Oct. 27 at 9 a.m. 4 and 5; both in the WH House from 10 a.m. 31 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Everett discussion on Nov. 4 at 10 a.m., and fi lm on For more information, call (718) 220-5824. to 1 p.m. Also scheduled are Art & Nature, a video about bug behavior followed by a talk Children’s Adventure Garden. Events Nov. 25; and Origami Workshop: Nov. 8 at 4 include guided activities featuring a puppet p.m. Adults can attend fi lm: “Edgar Allan Poe: The Woodlawn Conservancy presents and display of live ants and termites, Oct. playhouse and weekends include interactive Buried Alive,” Oct. 28 at 2:30 p.m. For more Illuminated Mausoleums, Oct. 27 to 29 at 28 at 1 p.m. in the WH House; and Nature demonstrations featuring bats, reptiles, and information, call (718) 579-4244/46/57 or visit 6 and 7 p.m. at the Woodlawn Cemetery. For Presentation, to learn that most spiders are other creepy creatures. For more information, www.nypl.org. more information, call (718) 920-1469. harmless to humans and observe live and preserved spiders of all sizes, Oct. 29 from 1 call 9718) 817-8700. The Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., offers Sistas and Brothas United presents free to 3 p.m., on the grounds. Grounds admission The Bronx Zoo offers Boo at the Zoo, Oct. for teens/young adults: Film: “Beauty and documentary fi lm, “The Pipeline,” Oct. is free until noon Saturdays and Tuesdays all 28 and 29 to celebrate Halloween with a the Beast,” Oct. 28 at 1:30 p.m. Children can 27 at 6:30 p.m., at the Concourse House, year. For more information and a schedule of haunted forest, hayride, pumpkin carving, enjoy Little Red Riding Hood: (ages 3 to 2751 Grand Concourse (at 196th Street). events including tours and walks, call (718) Bootoberfest (live music and food), mind 12), puppets and music, Nov. 3 at 3:30 p.m. Experience high school through the eyes of 549-3200. reading, magic and puppet shows, crafts, Adults can attend: Knitting Circle: Thursdays young people. For more information and to and meeting with vultures, owls, and ravens. at 3 p.m. For more information, call (718) For more information, fees, and a detailed 882-8239. schedule, call (718) 367-1010. The Jerome Park Library, 118 Eames Place The Fordham Road BID presents Halloween (near Kingsbridge Road), offers for children: Giveaway Event in Bryan Park (Fordham Halloween Extravaganza: includes games, and Kingsbridge roads), Oct. 30 and 31 candy, and more, Oct. 31 at 4:30 p.m. from 2 to 5 p.m.; and Halloween Sidewalk Registration required. For more information, Sale, along Fordham Road from Jerome to call (718) 549-5200. Washington avenues, Oct. 26 to 28 from noon to 7 p.m. For more information, call (718) 562-2104. Public Service

Lehman College, 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., Announcement presents Pumpkin Smash 2017, Nov. 1 from Daylight Saving Time ends on Nov. 5 at 2 3:30 to 6 p.m. Bring, break, take, or taste a.m. Turn clocks back one hour. Halloween pumpkins and squashes. For more information, call (718) 817-8543. NOTE: Items for consideration may File photo The Bronx Beer Hall, 2344 Arthur Ave., be mailed to our ofﬁ ce or sent to HALLOWEEN AT WILLIAMSBRIDGE Oval Park will see the recreation cen- presents and LGBTQ Halloween event, [email protected], and ter turned into a haunted house. Here, a look at last year’s scary good Redlight, Greenlight, Go-Go!, Oct. 27 from should be received by Oct. 30 for the times. next publication date of Nov. 9. October 26-November 8, 2017 • Norwood News • 15 Armory Rink $$$ in Focus…Again

(continued from page 1) nance the first phase of the ice center’s construction. Support for the state loan was nearly unanimous as residents at- tending the hearing expressed relief that, despite delays, KNIC was now a cru- cial step closer to reality. This most recent hearing also took on a less combative tone than in Janu- ary 2016 when the ESD convened a similar hearing that focused instead on a $30 million loan for which KNIC had applied. During the 2016 hearing, members of the People Power Movement, a progressive social justice group, slammed KNIC’s developers for potentially hastening the displacement of residents in their communities. This time, with KNIC now seeking Photo by Aaron Mayorga the full amount for the first phase of SANDRA LOBO (AT MIC), Northwest Bronx Community & Clergy Coalition’s Executive Director, testifies in favor of a state plan to construction, the process was forced to lend $138 million to the developers of the Kingsbridge National Ice Center (KNIC). restart anew. At the hearing, several members of Community Board 7 (CB7) Sandra Lobo, the executive direc- In part, KNIC struggled to demon- representatives that KNIC’s financial – which also had formally approved the tor of the Northwest Bronx Community strate to the NYCEDC that it had raised difficulties did not give her “confidence project in 2013 – were on hand and in fa- & Clergy Coalition, spoke highly of the the required construction funds by the that the first phase of the project will be vor. CBA and maintained that “there is no mutually-agreed March 2016 deadline, completed even if the city moves forward Edgar Ramos, a 40-year resident and precedent for a CBA like this – a legally- at which point, KNIC managed to secure with the lease transfer.” chair of CB7’s Traffic and Transporta- binding CBA – that brings such powerful $30 million in private funds – covering Meanwhile, community member tion Committee, testified that he hopes benefits to our community.” According only a fraction of the project’s phase one Aldo Perez voiced similar concerns and “that ESD is able to provide the money to a 2013 report by HR&A Advisors, the costs. said that the state needs to “make sure so that we can provide a positive venue… ice center is estimated to earmark $1 bil- This led to a protracted legal dispute that they have the correct funding so into this neighborhood.” Reverend Ralph lion into the community’s economy. between the two sides, leaving the 99- they can manage it continuously to its Beck, another CB7 member, hailed the “It isn’t about the ice,” testified De- year lease to the Armory in escrow. City complete fate.” Perez also noted that ice center as “a long time coming” and siree Pilgrim-Hunter, cofounder of the officials defended their decision to with- “the same faces [he sees] at every other a welcome attraction that would help Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Al- hold the lease, seeking to avoid a situa- meeting are here, but the new faces in keep young people out of trouble. CB7 liance—the consortium of organizations tion in which KNIC abandons the project our community are not… We need to be chair Adeline Walker-Santiago joined in that successfully negotiated the CBA. prior to its completion. transparent.” on the chorus of praise and referred to “The Kingsbridge Armory project rep- In September 2016, KNIC attempted After assessing the public com- KNIC as “a spark” for the Bronx. resents the economic reinvestment we to resolve the dispute by offering to pur- ments received at the hearing, the Pub- “[KNIC] represents… an opportunity need to begin the process of providing chase the Armory outright from the city, lic Authorities Control Board (PACB), to do good for our community, to do good the… opportunity secured by the CBA.” but the NYCEDC refused. The deadlock a five-member board of gubernatorial for the future generations,” said Pastor State Senator Gustavo Rivera, whose between the two sides prompted Gover- appointees, will discuss the loan and, Tim English of the Bronx Christian Fel- district overlaps with the Armory and nor Andrew Cuomo to intervene and pub- with Cuomo’s support, likely give its lowship Church who testified before ESD has been one of the project’s biggest ad- licly announce the state’s commitment final stamp of approval. It is unclear officials. “So, we implore you, we ask you vocates, appeared to agree with that as- to provide the full $138 million to KNIC. when exactly such a decision will be to do whatever is in your power to make sessment. “As soon as the lease comes Earlier this year, amid anticipation that made. this happen.” over, the community benefits agreement the state would come through with the According to the ESD’s general proj- goes into effect, which is why I’ve always loan, Mayor Bill de Blasio reportedly in- ect plan, the first phase of the ice cen- Never About Ice been supportive of it. This has never dicated that the city was ready to turn ter is slated to be completed in late 2020 Should the project finally be com- been about ice for me,” Rivera told the over the lease to KNIC once they had re- (assuming that there are no further de- pleted, it would activate the community Norwood News during a recess in testi- ceived the state’s loan. lays) – three years behind its original- benefits agreement (CBA) that was ham- mony. In a statement, ESD spokesperson ly-scheduled completion date. mered out between community stake- Yet, obtaining the lease has shown Amy Varghese said on the matter that “This has been a long road with holders and developers. Consequently, itself to be one of the biggest challenges “the state has always been committed to KNIC,” said Benjamin Arana, a busi- for some in attendance, the ice center the project has faced. revitalizing the long-vacant Kingsbridge ness representative for Local Union 3 was not what they were optimistic about, Armory… [and] the recent approval of IBEW. “We’re for the project and we’d but rather the CBA. Escrow Woes $138 million for this project further af- like to see the project go forward be- Among other provisions, the CBA The city-owned Kingsbridge Ar- firms that commitment.” cause it’s long needed and long over- stipulates that all KNIC-created jobs mory is managed by the New York City Even so, a couple of residents, while due.” must pay a $10 hourly living wage with Economic Development Corporation not opposed to the ice center, remained benefits (an $11.50 hourly wage without (NYCEDC), which operates as the city’s skeptical of KNIC’s ability to follow Editor’s Note: As of press time, it benefits), that a majority of those jobs go realtor. Despite it being nearly four years through with the project’s development. has been 1,415 days since the New York to Bronxites, and that 52,000 square feet after its initial approval, KNIC has still Samelys Lopez, a community activ- City Council approved the development be set aside for community space. failed to obtain the lease from NYCEDC. ist and former CB7 member, told ESD of the Kingsbridge National Ice Center. G&T 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 REACH 40,000 testifi es before a panel focusing on the problems of the city Department of Education’s gifted and tal- by Bronx Borough President Potential Customers In The Bronx Ruben Diaz Jr. and his Brook- Monte Pilot Program n counterpart, Eric Adams, ld its first session on March The panel heard from Ma- Photo by Adi Talwar Streamlines Access sura Tidjani, a mother of two at the Bronx High School African-American boys in To Developmental cience, a specialized high School District 9 who qualified supposed to have the program Care | pg 11 ol where entry becomes a for a G&T program for the past for the past two years but did -long goal for parents. The two years. On the first day3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFH of Proudlynot have Serving any programs Bronx becauseCommunities Since 1988FREE member panel heard from one of her son’s G&T class, Ti- they don’t have enough stu- s frustrated by a system djani was told that PS 199x The dents to open a class,” Tidjani SG&T seatsFREE are few in the Shakespeare School had can- told panelists, who sat jotting 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

KNOWING BRONXYOUR LEGAL BARRIERS: RIGHTS | PG. 9 INCREASE SALES RENT ROLLS When Advertising In The Award Winning QUESTIONED rd Park housing group questions legitimacy of tenants’ rent

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

St. Ann’s School Teachers Want The ONLY Newspaper Covering The Stories That Answers | pg 8 Concern You In YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ector of West Bronx Housing (r), and her colleague Andrew Laiosa (l), compile rent history forms alleging

thoroughly double check ether a landlord’s rent Study: Trains Loaded Photo by Adi Talwar rease on a tenant is jus- listing the help of elected With Fatty Food Ads ble. o f f i c i a l s . T h e g r o u p h a s Pg 11 est Bronx Housing, now zeroed in on an apart- tive director of West Bronx quartered in Bedford ment building in River- Housing, has noticed an dale, where rent histories Proudly Serving Bronx Communities Since 1988 has since been col- 3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFHuptick in these suspect rent FREE INTRODUCTORY - FIRST TIME ADVERTISER are suspect. They’re now these statements histories amid an afford- requesting these forms to FL/DR-1.0 forms able housing crisis that’s FREE tenants living in Norwood Spatterns while en- 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 THE CAMPAIGNCIVIC ENGAGEMENTBRONX BARRIERS: CRISIS | PG. 9 SPECIAL OFFER! TO DOWNZONE QUARTER PAGE FULL COLOR AD AS LOW AS Community Board 7 backs downzoning of Mosholu Pkwy.

CVS to Close in March pg 3

Fordham Nonproﬁ Looks Out for Teens t pg 7

y Van Cortlandt Avenue East (pictured) is among the streets community activists hope to ha . borders as a way to preserve ts character while stemming urther development. munity it will assess the look Photo by Adi Talwar State of the Bronx The group won a victory of the neighborhood. A move downzoned the latest CB7 Land Use/ tion presented before the full Blasts City and Trump turned from what some called using Committee meet- board at its Feb. 28 meeting a nonstarter to a mayoral is- pg 8 on Feb. 15 when the New was passed, with board mem- sue,” civil activist Anthony City Department of City bers agreeing to revisit the Rivieccio, who proposed the ing (DCP), charged with proposal by the fall. The board Proudly Serving Bronx Communities Since 1988 3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFHidea for a blanket rezoning of FREE mining the character of first needs to finalize another Mosholu Parkway and its im- orhoods across the five separate independent study mediate side streets, told the $100* FREE Shs, assured the com- it had commissioned last No- * FREE CREATIVE SETUP 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 Y MOSHOLU MOSHOLU MUST RUN 2 WEEKS. SECOND WEEK AT NORMAL PRICE ($145) INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: (continued on page 15) BAG FEE BAGGED FOR NOW | PG. 4 PRESERVATION PRESERVATION CORPORATION CORPORATION N • Fpg 14 EWS EBRUARYQ 16-M ARCH 1, 2017 THERE WILL BE A $25 CHARGE ON ANY EDITS OF SECOND RUN ST. ANN SCHOOLA NN-WFUVBRONX COLLABORATION BARRIERS: | PG. 9 TO CLOSE DOORS ws comes two years after parish church closed CALL 718-324-4998 or EMAIL

Trump Travel Ban Impacts Norwood pg 5 Jessica [email protected] at [email protected]

Veterans Honored At CB7 Breakfast pg 7

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