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ORWOODQ EWSQ NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 ORWOODQ EWSQ Vol 34, No 2 • 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 • Ja n u a r y 21-Fe b r u a r y 3, 2021 NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 FREE Chaos Follows Sepúlveda Arrest Perry Ave. Tenants Forced to Leave Homes | pg 2
Why Biaggi Backs Stringer’s Run for Mayor | pg 12
Photo by David Greene State Sen. Luis Sepúlveda leaves reporters high and dry as he exits a toy giveaway in the South Bronx on Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021. They said they understood he would comment, at the event, about his Jan. 12 arrest but the senator refused to answer any questions.
by DAVID GREENE domestic dispute during which precinct responded to a 911 call male and a 56-year-old male State Sen. Luis Sepúlveda he is alleged to have attempted regarding a domestic incident who both stated the other party has been stripped of his title to choke his estranged wife. at 5:45 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. assaulted them,” Mason said. New Elevator at as Chair of the Senate Commit- According to NYPD detec- 9, at Sepúlveda’s Daily Avenue The New York Times re- Gun Hill Road tee on Crimes, Crime Victims tive and spokeswoman, Sophia home in West Farms. “Police ported on Tuesday, Jan. 12, that Station | pg 13 and Corrections following a Mason, officers from the 48th were met by a 40-year-old fe- (continued on page 17)
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Vol. 34, No. 2 New Landlord to Tenants: Happy Vol. 27, No. 10 NorwoodVol. News 27, No.is published 10 bi-weekly on Thursdays by MosholuNorwood Preservation News Corporationis published (MPC) Holidays, Now Get Out Norwood3400 Reservoir News isOval published East bi-weekly on Thursdays by bi-weeklyBronx, New on ThursdaysYork 10467 by MosholuPhone: Preservation 718 324 4998Corporation by DAVID GREENE Mosholu Preservation Corporation 3400Fax: Reservoir 718 324 Oval2917 East E-mail: [email protected] Reservoir Oval East Just days before Christmas, some Bronx, New York 10467 Web.:Bronx, www.norwoodnews.org New York 10467 15 families renting apartments in one Norwood residential building re- Publisher Phone: 718 324 4998 Phone: 718 324 4998 ceived a letter from One Vesta Prop- Mosholu PreservationFax: 718 324 Corporation 2917 erty Management, on behalf of the new E-mail: [email protected]: 718 324 2917 ExecutiveE-mail: [email protected] Director of MPC landlord, advising them they had to JenniferWeb: Tausig www.norwoodnews.org Web: www.norwoodnews.org move out on or before Mar. 31, 2021, as Editor-In-Chief, Norwood News their apartments are being sold. Síle Moloney [email protected] CEO, Mosholu According to Real Estate Weekly, Publisher CEO, Mosholu MosholuInterns Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQ the impacted rental cooperative apart- Mosholu Preservation CorporationDawn Clancy, Rachel DallooCorporation3UHVHUYDWLRQ ments, located at 3245 Perry Avenue Corporation Corporation Regular Contributors Roberto S. Garcia in Norwood, are among 255 units lo- Editor-in-Chief Roberto S. Garcia DavidEditor-in-Chief Cruz Greene, José A. Giralt, cated in nine different buildings in MiriamDavid Cruz Quiñones, Adi Talwar the Bronx and Manhattan, which were Contributors purchased in November 2020 as part &ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJLynn Williams, Dr. Seth Condon Dawn&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ McEvoy of a $23 million deal by Glacier Equi- Dawn McEvoy ties, a real estate investment firm led $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOHFor Display Advertising Dawn$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH McEvoy by Myles Horn. Alex Horn is a partner CallDawn McEvoy Janet Geller at at the firm. Proofreader The other Bronx-based buildings Judy(646)Proofreader Noy 581-0399 Judy Noy are located in Bedford Park, Con- 3URGXFWLRQ Support Your course, Fordham/University Heights Neil3URGXFWLRQ deMause CommunityNeil deMause Newspaper! and Spuyten Duyvil, while two oth- 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUVThe Norwood News is a not-for-profit ers are based in the Inwood section Davidpublication5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV Greene, and Adi relies Talwar upon the support of itsDavid advertisers Greene, andAdi Talwarreaders to produce a of Manhattan. A two-bedroom apart- Interns qualityInterns community newspaper. To support ment at Perry Avenue currently rents Shaylayour paper, Love, become Paolo Mossetti, a member Justin and McCallum,receive a for $1,300. andsubscriptionShayla Chelsea Love, Georgefor Paolo one Mossetti, year. Justin McCallum, and Chelsea George Joseph Conzo, Jr., a recently re- Simply mail check or money order for $40 to: tired FDNY EMT and former vice pres- For display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. NorwoodFor display News, advertising, 3400 Reservoir call (718) Oval 324-4998. East, ident of the FDNY union, lives at the Bronx, NY 10467. Photo by David Greene Perry Avenue building and had just Support Your Standing outside his home at 3245 Perry Avenue in Norwood on Sunday, Jan. 17, Norwood News is not responsible for finished a round of chemotherapy for Support Your 2021, Joseph Conzo, Jr., displays a letter he received just days before Christmas from Communitytypographical errors. Newspaper! Opinions expressed in a 9/11-related pancreatic and liver can- ThesignedCommunity Norwood letters Newsand Newspaper! bylinedLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE columns represent- the building’s property manager informing him he had just 90 days to move out of the licationtheThe sole Norwood and opinion relies News of upon theLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE authorthe support and areof its not - cer days before he received the unoffi- rental apartment he has lived in for the last 25 years. advertisersnecessarilylication and and thoserelies readers uponof Mosholu theto produce support Preservation aof quality its cial letter of eviction. communityCorporationadvertisers newspaper.and or Montefiore readers To to supportproduce Medical your a Center.quality paper, In the letter dated Dec. 1 but post- enal.” who is overseeing Cohen’s former con- Editorialscommunity represent newspaper. the Toviews support of the your editor paper, become a member and receive a subscription marked Dec. 21, tenants were told, Conzo added, “To get a letter two stituency office until such time as a re- only.become The a newspaper member and reserves receive the a subscription right forto limitone year.or refuse advertising it deems “Please be advised that your lease days before Christmas saying that placement is found. for one year. objectionable. Advertisements appearing agreement expires on 1/31/21. We are your lease is not going to be renewed, Cohen resigned on Dec. 31, before Simplyin this papermail check cannot or bemoney used order without for $40 writing to inform you that BRX Perry you have 90 days to vacate, was shock- the end of his final term, which would to:theSimply Norwood written mail permission checkNews, or3400 money of Reservoir the order Norwood forOval $40 East, News. Letters to the editor are subject to Apartments, LLC will not be continu- ing.. shocking news.” normally have ended in June, to take Bronx,to: Norwood NY 10467. News, 3400 Reservoir Oval East, condensationBronx, NY 10467. and editing. Writers should ing your tenancy, and this will serve Conzo confirmed that he, person- up a judicial position on the Supreme include their affiliation or special interest if Norwoodany. Anonymous News is lettersnot responsible are not published for typo- as a 90-day notice to vacate.” The letter ally, has been renting two apartments Court based in the Bronx. graphicalbutNorwood your name errors.News can isOpinions not be responsible withheld expressed upon for in typo signed- was signed by Michael Lago on behalf in the 41-unit building for the last On the advice of Assemblyman Jef- graphical errors. Opinions expressed in signed lettersrequest. and bylined columns represent the sole of the property manager. 24 years. Describing the warm and frey Dinowitz, who represents the 81st letters and bylined columns represent the sole opinion of the author and are not necessarily Multiple attempts by Norwood News friendly bond that exists among the Assembly District, residents of the opinion of the author and are not necessarily those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations to reach both Horn and Lago in an ef- building’s residents, he said they would Perry Avenue building are now work- RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHSthose of Mosholu Preservation Corporations- fort to clarify the exact relationship often knock on each other’s doors and ing with the West Bronx Housing and resentRU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS the views of the editor and/or publisher- between Glacier Equities and BRX gather in the lobby during the holidays Neighborhood Resource Center, which only.resent The the newspaper views of the reserves editor and/or the right publisher to limit oronly. refuse The advertisingnewspaper it reserves deems objectionable. the right to limit Perry Apartments LLC proved unsuc- to put up festive lights and ornaments. provides eviction prevention assis- Advertisementsor refuse advertising appearing it deems in this objectionable. paper cannot cessful. “It’s hard. It’s frustrating. It’s tance, mediation, and housing preser- beMosholuAdvertisements used without Preservation theappearing written Corporation inpermission this paper is a of non-cannot Nor- Standing outside his home on Sun- stressful,” Conzo said, confirming vation services in the western Bronx, profitbe used support without corporation the written permissionof Montefiore of Nor- wood News. Letters to the editor are subject day, Jan. 17, Conzo told the Norwood he has written to most if not all local, and a complaint has been filed with Medicalwood News. Center. Letters to the editor are subject to condensation and editing. Writers should News, “My family has been living Bronx elected officials on the matter. the New York State Attorney General, to condensation and editing. Writers should LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ here since 1985. At one point, we had In reference to former Councilman Letitia James. AnonymousLQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ letters are not published but your [rented] four apartments in this build- Andrew Cohen’s recently vacated seat, Conzo recalled once praising Alex nameAnonymous can be letters withheld are if not requested. published but your name can be withheld if requested. ing.” He went on to describe the local Conzo said he had not followed up with Horn who, in 2018, donated an apart- neighborhood of Norwood as “phenom- City Council Speaker, Corey Johnson, (continued on page 8)
Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a QRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUHMosholu Preservation Corporation is a MedicalQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH Center. Medical Center. January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 3 Nonprofit Run by Teens Helps City’s Homeless
By JOSÉ A. GIRALT need help. They said creat- A new generation of non- ing SustainABLE Start was profit organizations are lend- their way of “paying it for- ing a hand to help with home- ward.” lessness in the city. Some are Since March 2020, the even being led by passionate nonprofit has raised $18,000 twenty-somethings, and one to buy the items needed for was founded by a teenager not the kits. “We used the mo- yet old enough to vote. mentum from getting all this SustainABLE Start is attention, and making all the run by more than 80 high- initial kits, to partner with schoolers across the country. local companies,” Trujillo Founded by Chloe Trujillo, said. “Our current price per a 17-year-old, high school se- kit that we have to pay out of nior, the organization pays pocket is around $4 but... all special attention to the hy- of the value of the items is giene needs of the homeless around $40.” population. Helping the homeless stay By distributing what are hygienic is not the only way described as eco-friendly hy- Photo courtesy of SustainABLE Start in which young people are The leadership team giene kits throughout the city, giving back. In 2011, at 19, An- (above) at SustainABLE Start: the group hopes to make an drew Heinrich founded Proj- (L-R) Phillip Fuhrman, Olivia impact on one of the most vul- Wang, Chloe Trujillo, Nina Hiss- ect Rousseau, a nonprofit or- nerable populations in NYC. nauer, and Samantha Salcedo. ganization that seeks to help “Within shelters, and also (right) Chloe Trujillo, founder of young people who are facing on the street, people need to SustainABLE Start, sits next issues like hunger, poverty, find ways to keep themselves to 600 hygiene kits prepared and homelessness, to continue clean and hygienic, but often for distribution to the homeless their path to higher educa- that’s not their top priority,” community. tion. When Heinrich was look- Trujillo said. “It’s often food ing for a partner organization and clothing.” cine roll-out. The governor with outreach capabilities, Indeed, although food and went on to describe the growth SustainABLE Start caught his clothing are usually the main of the homeless population as attention. “We were particu- drivers of the group’s efforts a “national urban crisis.” larly drawn to them because to help the homeless, Tru- Trujillo may not have the youth, improving the system people they serve. Through they are team-led and team- jillo sees a particularly som- resources to tackle a national for all young people ages 16 to BronxWorks, for example, run,” Heinrich said. “So, we ber reason to get the hygiene crisis just yet, but her efforts 20 who would enter it in the the group has received feed- reached out to them and in kits to the shelters, and into are being felt across the city future. back on how popular the true fashion, they were very the hands of those living on at 55 locations. A recent re- In the Bronx, Sustain- socks (included in the kits) enthusiastic.” the streets. “Transmittable port by the NYC Department ABLE Start has partnered have been among shelter With ten years of success- diseases spread at one of the of Homeless Services (DHS) with BronxWorks to distrib- residents. “They mentioned ful nonprofit management be- highest rates among people dated Jan. 14, 2021 showed ute hygiene kits to places the socks were super help- hind him, Heinrich sees spe- experiencing homelessness,” that, citywide, 52,895 individ- like JAMS. They also pro- ful,” Trujillo said. “We keep cial qualities in Trujillo when she said. uals were housed in shelters, vide kits to Maya’s Place, a receiving donations of socks. it comes to such work. “She’s a Indeed, in July 2020, Nor- 17,256 of whom were children. shelter for young women in I always have them sent to phenomenal leader and learner wood News reported on how Last November, the Nor- Morris Heights. The kits in- BronxWorks and I know a lot at the same time which is, ulti- residents of the Jerome Av- wood News reported how the clude items such as masks, of them do go to the Jerome mately, the best form of leader- enue Men’s Shelter (JAMS) U.S. District Court for the socks, wet wipes, deodorant, Avenue Men’s Shelter.” ship,” he said. in the Norwood section of the Eastern District of New York a toothbrush, toothpaste, The idea for SustainABLE Currently, Trujillo is busy Bronx were quietly moved to (EDNY) approved a class ac- hand sanitizer, and men- Start was set in motion when filling out college applications a hotel in Manhattan due to tion settlement in C.W. v. The strual products, among oth- Trujillo and Victoria Buen- and writing admission essays, concerns over coronavirus City of New York, which had ers. The kits are put together dia-Serrano, both students at but by next fall, she hopes to ex- transmission. the effect of expanding access in a community space in the the Dwight School, an inde- pand the nonprofit by establish- Underscoring the im- to essential, life-saving youth building Trujillo lives in pendent college-prep school, ing a chapter in Philadelphia. portance of protecting the programs and services for with her family on the Upper needed help finding a sub- She is aware, however, of the homeless population during runaway and homeless youth West Side of Manhattan. way entrance in Manhattan. challenges ahead in growing the pandemic, Gov. Andrew aged 16 to 20 in New York Now that its off the A homeless person helped the organization. “I think the Cuomo announced during his City. ground, Trujillo said the them find one, and from that challenge that we’re definitely recent State of the State ad- Under the settlement, the nonprofit is positioning it- encounter, they decided to trying to overcome now is to es- dress on Jan. 11, that people City was required to imple- self for sustained success pick up hygiene products at tablish ourselves as a nonprofit who work and live at homeless ment procedural changes with her team developing a local dollar store to dis- that didn’t just do a lot in the shelters would be included in regarding how city agen- an ability to listen, reassess, tribute to people they saw in beginning, and that we’re con- Phase 1B of the COVID-19 vac- cies would manage homeless and adapt to the needs of the the subway who appeared to tinually helping,” she said. 4 • January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER By DAVID GREENE This week, we asked readers for their thoughts on the January 6th riot at the U.S. Capitol.
“I’ve been in a daze. I’m very upset. I feel “I think [President Donald] Trump is “I feel that President (Trump) was guilty, “I think the people don’t feel okayREGEIS with the “The one concern across the board for these people’s lives, and I walk around defi nitely to blame. He incited the riot - not and he should be held accountable. There recent elections and they are angry. And was security breach - that was the afraid because you never know; they could just Trump but everybody in Congress are words I can use like ‘disgraceful,’ for that reason, the riot took placeCARE and consistent CENTER underlying issue. What shoot and I could get hit, you know? It’s backing Trump. Even after the riots, even ‘disgusting,’ but the word I’d really use we’re in danger, but it’s not Trump’sA fault.five starhappened? facility Was securityproviding enough? very scary. I hope the transition will be after they, themselves, were victims of is ‘disturbing,’REGEIS - that it’s 2021, and we’re Yes, he won the election, and I thinkexcellent it was Seriously care though, in the that’s Bronx the one concern, peaceful. So far, it’s nice and quiet. It’s so this crime, they still sat up there and said still dealing with the Civil War, it’s just stolen, yes. The country is taking the road and who is the infi ltrator of the security? sad but yes, [President-elect Joe] Biden the election was rigged, [that] it was fake, antiquated thinking. There’s alternate of socialism, and it has a lot of infland uence. Westchester How many security areas [members] were in on will bring the country together, yes. You’ve that it needed to be investigated…the universes, there’s cult of personality, man, That’s really all I can say of my opinion. I it? Because I said it early, and Michael got to have faith.” election that had been investigated several and it’s counterproductive,CARE and we just have CENTERdon’t know what’s going to happen now. Moore said it the other day, is that this was Roxanne Home times.. I also blame Trump and all the white to stand up to the bullies. Donald Trump Believe me, you saw what happened an inside job. The people with Trump - they Morris Park supremacists who went up to Congress. represents the past. Half of me likesPersonalized him - I before, but care I don’t know.- Skilled I would rehabilitationlike it if he are a cult. - They’re Professional going to do something staff Also, there needs to be an investigation think he’s as Aunique fiveas steak and eggs.star He’s runs facility again in 2024, of course.” providingrash, and now security has upped its arms, regarding the policing, and the fact that iconic, and the other half of me thinks he’s Hector Delgado Trump’s not showing up... but something’s they were able to get into the Capitol a threat to nationalexcellent security, I think he, and careFordham Manor in the Bronxgoing to happen because you cut off their building that easily.” his administration, have acted like Russian social media - you’re really legitimizing Milagros Quinones nationals since day one. America is not [Editor’s Note: Various courts have ruled that their paranoia now that you are targeting Norwood stupid, and notand everyone is drinkingWestchester the the election was not stolen.] areasthis community.” kool-aid Donald Trump is serving.” Dion Sanders Ray Torres Crotona Bedford Park REGEIS REGEIS Personalized care - REGEISSkilledREGEIS rehabilitationCARE CENTER - Professional staff CARECARE CENTER CENTER CAREAA five star star facility facility CENTER providingA providing five star facility providing excellentexcellent care care in the in Bronx excellentthe Bronx care in the Bronx Aandand five WestchesterWestchester star facilityareas areas providing excellent careand in the Westchester Bronx areas Personalized care - Skilled rehabilitation - Professional staff Personalized care - Skilledand rehabilitation Westchester - Professional areas staff 3200 Baychester Avenue Bronx, NY 10475
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T. 718-320-3700 F. 718-671-2554 www.regeiscarecenter.com January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 5 6 • January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News NEWS City Will Arrange Transportation for BRIEFS NYC Seniors to Get Vaccinated By SÍLE MOLONEY cine at a City-operated site will be are also up and running, provid- Beginning Monday, Jan. 18, se- asked whether they have a way to ing on-site vaccinations for resi- By SÍLE MOLONEY niors aged 65 or older who are un- get to and from their appointment. dents aged 65 and older. Clinics at New Music School in Norwood Starting February 2021, a able to make their own arrange- If they require transportation, Van Dyke I & II Houses in Brook- new Bronx School of Music will ments and need transportation to they will be screened and directed lyn, Cassidy Lafayette Houses in be opening in the Norwood-Bed- and from a COVID-19 vaccination to transportation options, includ- Staten Island, and Polo Grounds ford Park neighborhood. The appointment can sign up for trans- ing Access-a-Ride, ambulette ser- Towers in Manhattan are cur- school will welcome all students and their families to come and portation through the City, New vices, cab service via Curb and in rently open, with plans to move use its space for lessons, practice, York City Mayor Bill de Blasio an- a few weeks, transportation by se- to different sites across the city in rehearsal, and enjoyment. The nounced on Sunday, Jan. 17. lect Senior Center programs. the coming weeks. school will be based at 3348 Perry “We are moving heaven and City officials added that DFTA Council Member Margaret Ave., Bronx, NY 10467. Its website is currently under development, earth to get our senior neighbors providers will be able to reach out S. Chin, who represents parts of but prospective students can reach vaccinated”, said de Blasio via a and link seniors to transportation lower Manhattan, said, “Coor- out to Philip Kwoka, president and press release. “Now, seniors who through phone outreach, ensuring dinating with our aging service founder at info@bronxschoolfor- music.org or by phone on (347)- need a ride to an appointment will that every senior knows the range providers to connect older adults 202-5402 for more information. get one, ensuring our vaccines go of available options. In total, the with information and transporta- to those who need them most.” City will offer approximately tion is the most effective way to Free Transportation for In response to the announce- 10,000 rides per week. achieve herd immunity for older Seniors to Get Vaccine Mayor Bill de Blasio an- ment, Department for the Aging To reach all those New Yorkers New Yorkers.” nounced on Sunday, Jan. 17, that (DFTA) Commissioner Lorraine aged 65 and over, the City said it She added, “To ensure prior- beginning Monday, Jan. 18, se- Cortés-Vázquez thanked the net- will broaden its outreach in part- ity populations are vaccinated as niors aged 65 or older who are un- work of senior centers and provid- nership with nonprofit partners soon as possible, we must have able to make their own arrange- ments and need transportation ers, who she said worked tirelessly and trusted community leaders. multi-lingual outreach in tandem to and from a COVID-19 vaccina- during the pandemic providing With a comprehensive outreach with immunization. I am confi- tion appointment can sign up for critical services to thousands of campaign that will be led by the dent that pop-up sites at NYCHA transportation through the City. older adults, and who are ready to City’s Vaccine Planning Work- facilities will be the fastest way to Seniors who require transporta- tion will be screened and directed mobilize transportation services group for Older New Yorkers, the bring vaccines to the city’s most to transportation options, includ- and assist the seniors in getting to City will be partnering with local vulnerable seniors, and I am hope- ing Access-a-Ride, ambulette ser- their vaccination appointments. organizations to get the word out ful that this effort can be repli- vices, cab service via Curb and, in “I also would like to thank the about safe and accessible vaccina- cated city-wide.” a few weeks, transportation by se- lect Senior Center programs. The City, the Vaccine Command Cen- tions - knocking on doors, placing Norwood News recently re- City’s Department for the Aging ter, and partners for ensuring we direct calls and robocalls, holding ported that the City expects to has said it will reach out and link never forget our commitment to virtual town halls, delivering fly- run out of vaccines the week com- seniors to transportation through mencing Monday, Jan. 18, and that phone outreach, ensuring that older adults as New York is an age ers, partnering with local health every senior knows the range of inclusive city,” she said. providers and more. the State has called on the federal available options. In total, the City City officials said that older City officials added that on- government to increase vaccine will offer approximately 10,000 New Yorkers aged 65 and over who site vaccination clinics for seniors dose distribution to respond to the rides per week. make an appointment for a vac- living in NYCHA developments need. Two Bronx Lottery Winners in 48 Hours The New York Lottery an- justice, education, and announced the weekend tence or intentional false- ularly, wear his mask, and nounced on Friday, Jan. 15, that criminal justice reform. He prior that vaccine supplies hood, the public deserved a follow the recommended one, top-prize winning ticket was joins Kenny Agosto, Ischia were due to run out the fol- full explanation. guidelines. He also said he sold in the Jan. 14, Take-5 lot- Bravo, Elisa Crespo, Oswald lowing week, even though would be continuing with tery drawing. The ticket, worth Feliz, Latchmi Gopal, John the mayor had previously Espaillat Tests his duties remotely until he $63,584.00, was purchased at UMK Sanchez and Altagracia E. set a goal of administering Positive for COVID-19 received clearance from his Inc, located at 5582 Broadway in Soldevilla in the race. Ju- one million vaccine doses Congressman Adriano doctor. He encouraged all the Kingsbridge section of the lian Sepulveda suspended by the end of January. Espaillat, who represents residents to follow public Bronx. On Saturday, Jan. 16, the his campaign in November On Jan. 18, the governor parts of the Bronx and health guidelines. lottery announced that another and endorsed Crespo. also alleged the federal gov- Manhattan, announced on top-prize winning ticket had been ernment had made a false Thursday, Jan. 14, that he Bronx Dems sold in the Jan. 15, Take-5 draw- Cuomo Seeks to Buy promise that vaccine doses tested positive for the cor- Endorse Eric Dinowitz ing. The ticket, worth $74,021.00, Pfizer Vaccine Directly held in physical reserve onavirus, and was quar- in District 11 was purchased at BP gas station, On Monday, Jan. 18, Gov. would be shipped to New antining at home. The The Bronx Democratic located at 824 Allerton Avenue in Andrew Cuomo announced York, following Cuomo’s re- congressman was first vac- Party posted on its Face- Allerton. he asked drug company, que st for more dose s. He s aid cinated with the Pfizer/Bi- book page on Jan. 6 that it Pfizer, which is based in he was initially informed oNTech COVID-19 vaccine was endorsing Eric Dinow- District 15 City New York, if the State could they were on the way but at the United States Capitol itz in the District 11 City Council Race Expands purchase the COVID-19 vac- that the federal government on Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020. Council race. Norwood Troy Blackwell, a former aide cine directly from the com- did not follow through, and On Jan. 14, Espaillat said News reached out to the on the Biden-Harris campaign pany. He said, unlike Mod- New York was set to receive he had received the second party to check if there was and Obama White House aide, erna, Pfizer is not bound to just 250,000 doses during dose of the COVID-19 vac- any formal press release is- announced his candidacy in the commitments under Opera- the week commencing Jan. cine the previous week and sued at the time of the an- District 15 City Council race on tion Warp Speed, the federal 18, which was 50,000 fewer that he understood it took nouncement as it appeared Monday, Jan. 18. According to government’s vaccine plan. than the previous week. some time for the vaccine quite low-key. We did not Blackwell’s campaign, his cam- Both the governor and NYC The governor said whether to take effect. He added that receive an immediate re- paign policies focus on housing Mayor Bill de Blasio had it was an act of incompe- he planned to be tested reg- sponse. 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ORWOODQ EWSQ N PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N Happy Holidays, Now Get Out OUR READERS CAN (continued from page 2) apartment. ment to the family of slain NYPD offi- The new landlord sent a follow-up cer, Miosotis Familia. Conzo now says, letter to tenants in the new year, apolo- BE YOUR CUSTOMERS “He will not be remembered for that. gizing for the prior “untimely letter” He will be remembered for kicking sent before the holidays. In it, tenants people out during a pandemic.” were informed that the landlord would t3FBDIOFBSMZ SFBEFST In a 2013 feature article, Miles Horn try to work with each individual family told The New York Times how he first to reach a satisfactory arrangement for JOUIF#SPOY got into real estate, saying, “I bought both parties, but were also informed of my apartment for $37,500. It was a one- the landlord’s intention to eventually t5BLFBEWBOUBHFPG-08SBUFT bedroom overlooking Central Park. I sell the impacted apartments. t0VSQSJDFIBTZPVSBEJOUIFQBQFS sold it a few weeks later for a lot more Norwood News has reached out to money. It didn’t take much for a light Bronx Community Board 7 to check if GPSUXPXFFLT bulb to go off, for me to figure out a way the matter was discussed at any of the to make money.” previous committee meetings. A spe- t3BUFT/&(05*"#-& Back at Perry Avenue, a worker was cial election to find a replacement City spotted exiting the building on Jan. 16, Council Member for District 11 was having completed a day’s renovations called by Mayor Bill de Blasio on Jan. 4 and repairs on an already vacated and will be take place on March 23. TO3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFH ADVERTISE IN FREETHE
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ORWOODQ EWSQ N PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N Vol 32, No 2 • PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION • JANUARY 17-30, 2019 ORWOODQ EWSQ N PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N FREE INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: STATE OF THE CITY: DE BLASIO GOV’T. SHUTDOWN | PG. 4 OUTLINES PLANS FOR BX. | PG. 10 STAGG TENANTS BATTLE
New 5-2 CO Attacks FOR QUALITY OF LIFE Crime Spike of ‘18 Vocal tenants ramp up demand for fi xes at Webster Ave. bldgs. pg 2
Bodies found in Two Separate Norwood Incidents | pg 7
Achieving Student Balance at PS/MS 95 pg 8 Photo by Adi Talwar Photo by David Greene NEIGHBORS ZXAVIER SIMPSON (l) and Shannon Terrell (r) inside Terrell’s third oor apartment at 2985 Webster Ave. Terrell has led papers at Bronx County Housing Court for an HP action, violations and alleged harassment against her landlord. A worker exits 3245 Perry Avenue in Norwood after the first day of repairs and
By DAVID CRUZ and ary. fight waged by tenants over responsive and made im- renovations carried out on an already vacated residential building unit on Saturday, JOSEPH KONIG The Stagg Group, a con- conditions at the buildings provements to the properties, Residents of three fairly struction and development at 2985, 2987, and 2999 Web- known collectively as Bedford January 16, 2021. new buildings on Webster Av- company with multiple ongo- ster Ave. Since the Norwood Park Manor. enue that are owned and oper- ing projects in Bedford Park News originally covered the “I’m pro-tenant,” Stagg ated by The Stagg Group have and Norwood, told the Nor- story in October, tenants say said in a phone interview. He gotten the ear of Community wood News they will be send- their safety and quality-of-life argued the complaints come Board 7, which plans to hear ing a representative to the concerns have not been fully from only a handful of people from residents at its next meeting to hear out the ten- addressed. Stagg Group CEO and he has already worked Housing, Zoning & Land Use ants’ concerns. and founder, Mark Stagg, ar- to correct some of the initial pg 18 Committee meeting in Febru- The news is the latest in a gues his company has been (continued on page 19) January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 9
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CONTACT US FOR PRE-ARRANGEMENTS (718) 920-0500 [email protected] 4199 Webster Ave., Bronx, NY 10470 www.woodlawn.org 10 • January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News CRIME FILE By SÍLE MOLONEY
Fordham Manor: 8-Year- inflicted or not. In a phone call section of the Bronx, when an nection with an assault. On Man Punched in Face Old Shot in Head with the NYPD, officials said unknown man grabbed her Friday, Jan. 8, at around 2.55 The NYPD is seeking to The NYPD reported that the incident was under inves- from behind and attempted to p.m. in front of 2301 Jerome identify a man sought in con- on Monday, Jan. 18, at 12.30 tigation. rape her. During the encoun- Avenue (Family Dollar store) nection with an assault. On in the afternoon, at Fordham ter, the victim bit the suspect’s in University Heights, the sus- Tuesday, Jan. 5, at 11.20 a.m., Hill Oval in the Fordham Norwood: Search for 16- right hand. He fled to parts pect approached a 48-year-old inside Kingsbridge Road sub- Manor section of the Bronx, Year-Old Missing Girl unknown. The victim was not man from behind and stabbed way station (D Line) in The an 8-year-old boy was shot in The NYPD is asking for the injured but was transported the victim in the upper back. Bronx, a 74-year-old man was the head. He was transported public’s assistance in locating to NYC Health + Hospitals/ The suspect then fled, on entering the subway turnstile to New York (Columbia) Pres- Asiamarie Ortiz, 16, of 3424 North Central Bronx for eval- foot, northbound along Je- when the suspect, who was ex- byterian Hospital in critical Gates Place in the Norwood uation. Surveillance video rome Avenue before enter- iting at the adjacent turnstile, condition. Referring to the section of the Bronx. Asia- and photos showing the sus- ing a black van which then punched the victim in the face. incident in a press release is- marie was reported missing pect inside the location were left the location. The victim The suspect subsequently fled sued earlier that day, Council- in the 52nd precinct and was obtained and shared with the was transported to an area the station. The victim re- man Fernando Cabrera wrote last seen at her home at 3 p.m. public. hospital in stable condition, ported the incident to police, that the gunshot had been self- on Sunday, Jan. 17. She is de- Police confirmed on Jan. 18 where he was treated, and and later sought medical at- inflicted, and that it was un- scribed as 5 feet, 5 inches tall, that on Friday, Jan. 15, 2021 at later released. The suspect is tention at Montefiore Hospital known if the gun owner was weighs 130 pounds, has brown 3.10 p.m., Fausto Perez, 33, of described as an adult male in for neck pain. in legal possession of the gun eyes and brown hair. She was Nelson Avenue in the Morris his 30s or 40s, has a medium Anyone with informa- or not. In a press release about last seen wearing a black coat, Heights section of the Bronx build, is dark-skinned, bald tion with regard to these in- an hour later, the councilman black shirt, and a black/red was arrested and charged and was last seen wearing cidents is asked to call the wrote that the gun used in the baseball hat. with attempted rape in the black sunglasses, a dark blue NYPD’s Crime Stoppers shooting had been legally reg- 41st precinct. An arrest is not long-sleeved shirt, dark col- Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS istered with the owner. In a Fordham Manor: proof that a person is guilty of ored pants and blue sneakers. (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888- later press release, he wrote Suspect Arrested in an offense. The getaway vehicle was a 57-PISTA (74782). The public that the gun had been ille- Attempted Rape black van with white signage can also submit their tips by gally held. Norwood News is On Friday, Jan. 8, at 7 p.m., University Heights: Suspect on the side, and green and red logging onto the Crime Stop- not in a position to corrobo- a 33-year-old woman was Sought in Stabbing pin-striping towards the bot- pers website at WWW.NYPD- rate whether the firearm was walking up the stairwell of The NYPD is seeking tom frame. CRIMESTOPPERS.COM, or legally or illegally held or her apartment building, lo- to identify the man who is on Twitter @NYPDTips. All whether the gunshot was self- cated in the Fordham Manor wanted for questioning in con- Kingsbridge: 74-Year-Old calls are strictly confidential.
Graffi ti Clean-Up at Kingsbridge Armory
By MIRIAM QUINOÑES & graffiti that was here, so we got to- SÍLE MOLONEY gether - the 52nd precinct, [NYPD] On Thursday Jan. 7, Councilman Explorers, the young people came Fernando Cabrera, representing out. I came out, and we just covered District 14, joined the 52nd Precinct it all.” Community Affairs Unit and the The councilman continued, “Right NYPD Explorers in painting over now, the city does not have the graffiti graffiti that had been sprayed on the removal [service], so this is the next walls of the Kingsbridge Armory at best thing that we can do.” Cabrera Kingsbridge Road and Jerome Av- said the group wanted to respect public enue. buildings and honor them. He said they Speaking to the Norwood News worked on a large section of the armory after the bulk of the work had been wall all the way up to the end of the completed, Cabrera, who is serving block. “These young people, they are his final term as a council member making a difference,” he said. “This is and is currently running for Bronx so awesome, and this is us taking care borough president, said, “We’re of our community. This is awesome, right here at the Kingsbridge Ar- man. If we don’t take care of it, who’s mory. This was full of graffiti. News going to do it? And so, everybody here 12 reached out to us about all the [is] making a difference. God Bless.” January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 11
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expected, and that the budgetary actions he talked about how nobody deserves Why Biaggi taken were really more akin to creative respect for respect’s sake. “You earn accounting. respect. You earn the honor,” she said. “Having a police budget as large as “Those are privileges.” Backs Stringer’s we do in the NYPD, when you compare In terms of his relationship-build- that to education or to mental health, ing abilities, we asked the senator if, in those are things that we’ve got to look at, her experience in Albany, she felt the Run for Mayor so that we can make sure that police offi- reported dysfunction between Gov. An- cers are not responding to mental health drew Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio calls, because they don’t have the train- impacted negatively on everyday New By SÍLE MOLONEY ing to do that, and they should not be do- Yorkers, and if she felt the comptroller Integrity, leadership, the ability to Photo courtesy of Stringer for Mayor ing that,” Biaggi said. would better navigate that relationship listen and craft creative policy that’s New York City Comptroller, Scott On the topic of mental health, and if elected mayor. fair to everyone - these are the core at- Stringer, and his wife, Elyse Buxbaum, in order to safely diffuse what are often She agreed that the alleged friction tributes State Sen. Alessandria Biaggi join Sen. Alessandria Biaggi as they cam- volatile situations, we asked Biaggi if she between the two leaders was not good sees in New York City Comptroller, Scott paign in Riverdale on Sept 8, 2020 as part agreed that it was perhaps necessary to for ordinary New Yorkers and she was Stringer. Passionate in her expression of Stringer’s run for mayor. reimagine the mental health system it- critical of the seemingly frivolous way of just how aligned she is with his way self. In making it a 24/7 service, mental their relationship was characterized of thinking, the progressive senator, our success must be, instead, whether we health experts could then be on standby and covered in the media, though she who represents parts of The Bronx and finally build a city for everyone,” he said to accompany police to locations where commended The New York Times for an Westchester, spoke to the Norwood News during his launch. “I will ask the most there may be mentally unstable people opinion piece in which it was suggested about why she was among the first, if not fortunate among us to pay a bit more in who are armed, or people whose abilities the two should stop the quarreling. the first, in a hefty list of elected officials taxes. We asked frontline workers to be may be impaired by illicit substances, “There’s a lot of joking that goes to immediately throw support behind heroes, and the wealthiest New Yorkers and who may pose a risk to themselves around on it, where it’s like, ‘Oh, look! Stringer when he officially announced should do their part.” or others. They’re fighting again,’” she said. “I ac- his mayoral bid on Sept. 8, 2020. Saying New York had lost control of “I think that that’s a very smart tually don’t find it funny at all. I think Having grown up in Manhattan’s how to manage the City, Stringer added idea,” she said. “Yes, I think that that’s it is one of the most damning things to Washington Heights, a place where that there should be “no more giving right. When you’re in an emergency, you New Yorkers. New York City - one of the Stringer said a single mom like his could away the store to developers.” Included and I know to call 911, and I think that largest cities in the world - managing it afford to give her boys a middle-class in his platform is a commitment to build- people use 911 as the emergency service well requires partnership. It requires life, the comptroller chose to launch his ing permanently affordable housing that call number for every emergency, and not thoughtfulness.” campaign in nearby Inwood. Later that working people can actually afford. every emergency falls within the pur- Biaggi said there would always be day, he crossed over into the Bronx, ac- He also plans to triple the number of view of the police department.” disagreements between leaders because companied by Biaggi, who he had previ- new apartments built for homeless fami- She added, “One of the many rea- that is the essence of leading. “Different ously endorsed when she ran for her Sen- lies, saying [economic] disparities that sons why I’m supporting him [Stringer] people have different opinions, but what ate seat in 2018. There, they chatted with begin at birth have to be addressed. “We is because he listens, he is reasonable, has been created here [with Cuomo and Riverdalians about what they wanted to will enact my plan, #NYCUnder3, to ex- he is rational, but he also has a growth de Blasio] is really troubling,” she said. see in their next mayor. tend childcare assistance to all families mindset, and having a growth mindset “It’s all about getting there first. It’s Though he is not the first city comp- making less than $100K a year,” he said. is absolutely essential right now in our like a rush to the finish line - who can troller to run for mayor, Abe Beame “It’ll more than triple the number of kids government.” announce what the new idea or policy is being at least one other, as the person in city-backed childcare.” In an effort to further understand first, and that’s childish.” By contrast, who has, since 2013, overseen the larg- With so much emphasis on budgetary the apparent reticence to cut the NYPD Biaggi said good leadership entailed est municipal and regional economy in policy, we asked Biaggi if she thought the budget, and acknowledging the recent leaders collectively using their power to the United States, Stringer’s financial comptroller would have voted in favor increased security threats posed by do- help the most people. experience is central to his platform, of the City’s contentious adjusted bud- mestic, White supremacists, we asked In this, she said Stringer is commit- and is clearly an asset at a time when the get last June amid widespread calls to the City’s Independent Budget Office ted to uniting. “That’s a very broad thing City seeks to emerge from the economic “defund the police,” and after it became (IBO) how much of the NYPD’s budget is to say, but he doesn’t stoke division,” she downturn caused by the pandemic. common knowledge that the NYPD’s an- allocated to counterterrorism and intel- said, adding that even when he disagrees While conservatives would argue that nual budget was in the region of $6 bil- ligence gathering. with people, he can work with them and many campaign policies touted by pro- lion, and many feeling that that money We were informed that in 2020, the said he has done so throughout his entire gressive candidates are overly idealistic, could have been better spent elsewhere. City spent $228.2 million on intelligence career. [since every government program has to “It’s hard to speak in a hypothetical and counterterrorism, that the 2021 bud- The senator added that in the current be funded] Stringer already has the in- but I know the comptroller’s values and get includes $187.9 million in this regard political environment there was also an side knowledge of how best a fiscally re- his principles, and I think that he has and that $189.7 million has been allot- absence of rewarding creative thoughts, sponsible budget can be achieved. led with them for his entire career,” she ted for 2022. The IBO could not confirm behaviors and programs. “When you “Bringing leadership back to City said, adding that Stringer had proven what was behind the reduction from 2020 ask somebody walking down the street, Hall means dealing with the budget himself to be someone who made sure to 2021. ‘Do you think government’s creative?’ I crisis,” Stringer said at his campaign there was enough money for social ser- A representative said this may have think the first thing that they would say launch. In tackling the $4.2 billion bud- vices, education, and basic necessities, been in part a reflection of federal dollars is, ‘No.’ Nobody thinks government’s cre- get deficit reported around September when such services had previously gone not yet received since the City doesn’t ac- ative. That’s like a joke but it’s not even a time, he said, “I’ll root out waste. I’ll en- underfunded. count for some federal money until it’s funny joke because the lack of creativity act smart, targeted revenue generators.” Referring to her belief in the comp- actually allocated. The IBO confirmed in our government actually is damning The comptroller also warned that troller’s ability for creative policy, she that last year, the NYPD got over $424 to all of us.” any borrowing would have to be limited said reimagining how the city budget is million in federal and other revenue, Another reason she supports the to ensure the City didn’t get stuck in a cy- managed was a must. “I think that that’s while this year only $168 million is cur- comptroller is due to his zero-tolerance cle of reliance on debt, and that bringing very much in line with how he thinks, rently budgeted. The representative said stance on sexual misconduct, saying he leadership back to City Hall meant that but I don’t know how he would have come in the two prior years, the City had got- was ahead of the game even before the the City’s economy could not be reopened down necessarily on the budget, up or ten in the $200 million+ range. #MeToo movement became a global phe- the same way it had been closed. One of down,” she said. When it comes to criminal justice nomenon. She said Stringer has a growth the ways he plans to do this is through Norwood News reached out to String- reform, law enforcement and police bru- mindset and never accepts the status investing in small businesses and bring- er’s campaign with the question and tality, Biaggi said Stringer is someone quo. “Scott is someone who has proven ing back traditional retail corridors. was informed that the comptroller was who likes to bring all sides to the table, that the progressive issues of today are Indeed, Stringer said the measure of ultimately critical of the final outcome which she said was incredibly unusual his issues,” she said. “The greatest city the City’s success in recovering from the of the June revised budget. Like others, in the current political climate. Refer- in the world deserves the greatest leader pandemic cannot be whether the Dow he believed the police budget was not ul- encing a speech he gave last summer in — and that’s Scott Stringer.” Jones continues to rise. “The measure of timately cut in the manner people had the context of respect and honor, she said January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 13 New Elevator at Gun Hill Road Station
By RACHEL DALLOO The new year ushered in some good news for seniors, non-driving shop- pers, people with disabilities, and par- ents with small kids in strollers as the Metropolitan Transportation Author- ity (MTA) officially opened another ADA compliant elevator in the Bronx on Wednesday, Jan. 6, in the presence of a number of Bronx elected officials. The elevator at Gun Hill Road sub- way station in Olinville, which serves the number 5 and 2 subway lines, is a welcome development for those who had previously struggled climbing the many flights of steps in order to access the upper platforms, all while carry- ing strollers, bags, wheelchairs and carts. The project was part of the MTA’s 2020-24 Capital Plan, which went into effect on January 1, 2020, and included $54.8 billion in investment in the Photo by Rachel Dalloo State’s subways, buses, commuter rail- President of MTA Construction 7 Development, Janno Lieber, delivers remarks at the opening of a new elevator at Gun Hill roads, bridges and tunnels. Road subway station in Olinville on Wednesday Jan. 6, 2021. The station was the final of eleven stations across the city to become Meanwhile, Bailey said, “We have fully ADA accessible in 2020, which in- to redefine what we consider to be dis- cluded the Bronx’s Bedford Park Bou- abilities.” He added, “Sometimes there levard station which serves the B and are things that we don’t necessarily D lines. At least eight additional sta- see that prevent people from access- tions are set to undergo ADA-related ing these spaces. There are people that improvements this year. have these invisible disabilities that Present for the opening was MTA are not able to access public transpor- Board Member and Commissioner tation. Let’s be clear, public transporta- of the Mayor’s Office for People with tion should be accessible to the entire Disabilities, Victor Calise, and MTA’s public, not just a subsection of the pub- President of Construction & Develop- lic.” ment, Janno Lieber. For his part, Riley said Gun Hill Apart from the elevator improve- Road subway had been part of a transit ments, Lieber said improvements were desert in the community. “To address also made to the subway tracks and the transit desert, we have to focus on platform. These included stairway the revitalization of our train stations renovations, a customer service booth, within our community,” he said. “It’s and the expansion of the building to fa- Photo by Rachel Dalloo very imperative that we revitalize all of cilitate more access to the elevators. MTA Board Member and Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office for People with Dis- the other train stations in the Bronx.” In addition, the MTA control house abilities, Victor Calise, delivers remarks at the opening of a new elevator at Gun Hill The MTA said that a small num- at the Gun Hill Road station was ex- Road subway station in Olinville on Wednesday Jan. 6, 2021. ber of remaining fixtures still need to panded by 26 feet, and the upper plat- be installed at Gun Hill Road station, form was modified to accommodate to work on a number of Capital projects Bronx Borough President Ruben Díaz in order for the station’s upgrade to the new elevator. MTA crew members across the state, costing approximately Jr. be fully completed. These relate to the also upgraded the station’s communi- $2 billion, during the period of reduced “As the Bronx Borough President, I area around the station’s entrance and cation system with new mechanical ridership caused by the COVID-19 pan- believe, as we start talking about how are projected to be completed by the and electrical fixtures. demic. to get to the other side of COVID-19 and end of January. Liebar said overall the project was The MTA officials were joined how we plan that, infrastructure is im- Meanwhile, Fernández said accessi- great news for the people of the area, at the elevator opening by recently portant,” said Díaz. “What happened bility should be the number one prior- not just those conventionally described elected City Councilman for the 12th here, it created good jobs for those who ity for everyone. “We are not the only as disabled, but also for New Yorkers District, Kevin Riley, Assemblywoman were building this train station.” He ones in the city,” she said. “We have who are older, parents with strollers, and Bronx borough president candi- added that [despite the pandemic] it many, many friends and neighbors and for people who do their shopping date, Nathalia Fernández, State Sena- was important to move forward with who might need more assistance in dif- by subway. tor and Bronx Democratic Party Chair, infrastructure and transportation to ferent ways. Every train station should In June 2020, Gov. Andrew Cuomo Jamaal T. Bailey, Speaker of the New make sure corners were not being cut, have an elevator so New Yorkers [can] announced that the MTA had planned York State Assembly Carl Heastie, and and all voices were being heard. get by.” 14 • January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News The Bronx Alumnae Chapter of Movement Delta Sigma Theta Sorority presents the Battle of the Decades Virtual From Jan. 6 until April 1, a Free Walking Bingo, an afternoon of non-stop fun Program for Adults and Seniors will be and games to benefit the alumnae held every Wednesday from noon until chapter’s scholarship and community 1 p.m. in Williamsbridge Oval Park. programming. The event will be held Join the fun! The program will start with on Saturday, Jan. 23 at 4 p.m. Guests a group warm-up, led by a Shape Up must be 21 years old to participate, and NYC instructor, followed by a walking bingo playing cards must be purchased workout appropriate for all levels and Compiled by DAWN CLANCY in advance. To buy tickets and learn paces, and will end with a cool down more, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/ and stretch. The group meets at the and search for “Battle of the Decades U.S.A. Trivia” at https://www.nypl. track, except during inclement weather Events Virtual Bingo.” Ticket sales end on org/. or when temperatures fall below 40 Friday, Jan. 22 at 6 p.m. The Mosholu Montefiore degrees. Please dress for the weather, Community Center will hold its wear a face covering and maintain The Bronx River Foodway will Art annual gala on Tuesday, Jan. 26, social distancing of 10 feet during host its first virtual Foodway at 6 p.m. Hosted by former NFL class. Wash your hands frequently and team meeting on Jan. 20 at 5 p.m. Want to explore your artistic side Denver Bronco, Reggie Rivers, the stay home if you’re sick. Instructor: Lia Participants will get a sneak peek in the comfort of your home? Then event will honor Melissa Bindra, a ‘Miran at the edible plants, berries, and join The Bronx Museum of the Arts, real estate executive and affordable vegetables that will be planted during Virtual Family Art Making Affair from housing developer in the Bronx, the 2021 growing season. Visit http:// 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23. and Stephen Ritz, the founder of Every Monday night, the Bronx www.bronxriver.org/ Registration is required, and free art Green Bronx Machine. MMCC will Nomads host an hour long run to register, or for more information, materials for the event will be available also bestow special honors on its / walk for anyone interested in email Nathan Hunter at Foodway@ for pickup during the museum’s COVID Superheroes. The event joining the group. The event starts bronxriver.org. open hours on Wednesday, Jan. 20, at Williamsbridge Oval Recreation is virtual, and tickets must be Thursday, Jan. 21, and Friday, Jan. 22. purchased in advance. For more Center at 6 p.m. More information can Join Dr. Robbin Moran, New York For more details and registration, visit information and for ticket pricing, be found on the group’s Instagram Botanical Garden’s Curator Emeritus, http://www.bronxmuseum.org/. visit https://www.mmcc.org/. here: https://www.instagram.com/ for a virtual discussion on Charles bronxnomads/. Darwin’s passion for plants and learn Artist Tania Dirks and The Bronxworks Are you itching to travel, and want the pivotal role they played in shaping Leadership Council present the to have fun while testing your U.S. his revolutionary theory of evolution. first Bronxworks Virtual Paint and Every Wednesday at 9 a.m. at Bronx geography knowledge? Then join The event takes place via zoom on Jan. Sip on Friday, Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m. Works, there is a free Vinyasa Yoga class the Pelham Bay Library’s virtual 22 from 11 a.m. to noon. To RSVP, visit Tickets are available for purchase at 1130 Grand Concourse, and yoga mats “Travel the U.S.A.” trivia game https://www.nybg.org/ and search for at http://bronxworks.org/events. All are provided. For more information, go to on Tuesday, Jan. 26 at 2 p.m. To “Darwin’s Passion for Plants.” proceeds benefit the Bronxworks https://www.eventbrite.com/ and search for register, search for “Travel the Building Better Future Funds. free vinyasa yoga.
Early Saturday Works Approved on Fordham Road
By DAWN CLANCY deliveries, and all the subcon- of life is going to be impacted.” Loring Place side to create a driv- The Bronx Community Board tractors arrive. The earlier start Erickson also raised concern ing lane, and a pedestrian walk- 7 Housing, Land Use, and Eco- time will allow us to complete the over how little the committee way has been added. It was noted nomic Development Committee building faster and get out of the knew about the Stagg Group’s that deliveries will take place on approved a request on Tuesday, neighborhood as quick as pos- construction plans before Tues- both Fordham Road and Loring Jan. 13, by the Stagg Group for sible.” day’s meeting. Place, and there are no plans for an early work permit in relation Currently in the foundation “Did you come and notify us any street closures. to construction work at 140 West phase of construction, the Stagg about the project?” she asked. Ultimately, the committee Fordham Road in University Group’s project includes a 52,000 “Because we didn’t even know compromised with the Stagg Heights, permitting the group to sq. ft., seven-story residential you had the foundation in. We Group and voted to approve the start work at the site at 8.30 a.m. building with 54 rental units and feel a little hurt about that. We 8:30 a.m. work start time. How- on Saturdays. a parking enclosure with 27 park- like to know what’s going on.” ever, committee chair, Alex Kar- To expedite construction at ing spaces. According to Miele, Fellow committee member, man, noted that votes on the mat- the site, Stagg Group project man- once the foundation is complete, Erick Ascencio, also weighed in ter would also be required from ager, Chris Miele, had attended construction could wrap in two asking the group about its logis- the Bronx CB7’s Executive Com- the meeting and requested a let- to three months. tics plan for the construction of mittee and General Board for ter of support from the committee Housing committee member this project. “What do the street final approval. Miele said the to obtain the required early start Sandra Erickson was the first to closures and sidewalk closures group would aim to provide the work permit from the Depart- suggest that 8 a.m. on a Saturday look like?” he asked. “It would requested construction logistics ment of Buildings (DOB). Work is was too early for construction to have been good to see some of and general project information typically permitted from 10 a.m. begin and requested a compro- that information.” to all committees before the exec- to 6 p.m. on weekends. mise of 8:30 a.m. Members of the According to Miele, during utive committee meets on Thurs- “In the construction world, community, including Danielle construction, parking and the day, Jan. 21. the difference between starting Guggenheim, agreed. “I know bus lane will remain on Ford- The next Housing, Land Use, at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. is really crit- me, as a teacher, 8:00 a.m. on ham Road. However, all parking, and Economic Development com- ical,” said Miele. “All the action Saturday is too early. I need my approximately seven spaces in mittee meeting is scheduled for happens in the morning, all the rest,” she said. “I feel my quality total, has been eliminated on the Tuesday, Feb. 9 at 6:30 p.m. January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 15 16 • January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News ,ETTERS 4O 4HE %DITOR
MTA Fare Evasion preciation expressed by Ms. Quaranta Here is one way to keep any fare and Ms. Leighton in their responses increase in 2021 to the previously concerning the past assistance they scheduled 4 percent level or less. In received from the councilman. He, in- 2019, the MTA estimated it lost over deed, was a good man. $300 million to fare evasion. A report However, I ask all of Norwood and “Long COVID” is Real but Help is Available by the MTA Office of the Inspector the rest of District 11 to be aware of General last September found that the controversy surrounding the en- By Dr. SETH CONGDON Right now, we are going through “NYC Transit’s past practices for dorsement of one of the candidates, More than 24 million Americans the City’s second wave of the coro- tracking how many bus and subway Mr. Dinowitz, by the Ben Franklin have been infected with COVID-19. navirus. The Bronx is averaging riders failed to pay their fare were Reform [Club]. I am sure Mr. Dinowitz Over 400 thousand have died from it. over 1,000 new cases a day. It is cru- unreliable and contained sampling is a fine and good man, but the appa- Many survivors, for reasons we do cial that we do everything we can to shortcomings.” ratus that was out of his hands [that] In our COVID-19 world, rider- gave him the endorsement has to be not yet understand, continue to suf- protect ourselves and our loved ones ship is significantly less. Does this reformed. fer symptoms for months. The con- from getting COVID-19. The follow- translate into a significant decrease I am not making an official en- dition is often called “long COVID,” ing are some important precautions in fare evasion, as fare collection re- dorsement to my neighbors as of this and the people struggling with it de- to continue taking this year: sumed? It will be interesting to see time for any of the candidates, but Mr. scribed as “long-haulers.” • Wear a face mask in public or around the MTA’s statistics for fare evasion Dinowitz will have to prove why he In a survey of people with a posi- people with whom you don’t live. during 2020. should receive anyone’s vote after that tive COVID-19 test who were treated • Wash your hands frequently with When the MTA is successful in shady endorsement he received. One Metro New York (OMNY) replac- Also, a pet project of mine is to help at Montefiore Medical Center from soap and water. ing the old MetroCard, coming online foster children when they age out of March to December 2020, more than • Get tested if you develop symptoms in 2021, will the MTA become more ef- the system, via Covenant House. I was 20 percent of respondents reported of COVID-19 or are potentially ex- ficient in reducing fare evasion over pleasantly surprised to learn, through continued symptoms six months af- posed to someone who has it. Test- the coming years? According to the the Norwood News profile of her, that ter testing positive. These were not ing is free and does not require an MTA’s own McKinsey Consultants’ one candidate in the NYC District 11 only people treated in the hospital, appointment. Find a test site near report, if all goes well, perhaps 80 per- race has worked specifically on this but also people seen in their primary you by going to https://coronavirus. cent of the pre-COVID-19 ridership topic. That is Ms. Abigail Martin. will return, some time in 2024. Someone who has shown compas- care clinic and at the emergency health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you Whatever happens over the com- sion for that area and topic deserves department who were not hospital- or texting COVID TEST to 85548. ing months and years, every dollar a closer look for a possible vote in the ized. Indeed, “long COVID” seems In response to the large number counts. The MTA, including NYC June primary election! However, the to be just as common in people who of community members affected by Transit, Long Island and Metro North other candidates are also worthy of were not hospitalized as in those who “long COV I D,” Montef iore h a s st a r te d Rail Roads, need to do a far better job your dedicated attention and support. were. the COVID-19 Recovery and Engage- in dealing with fare evasion. Only 25 percent of the world popu- The symptoms of “long COVID” ment (CORE) clinic. Along with my It is unfair to honest commuters lation have the privilege of voting for who pay their fair share every day if their governmental leaders. In a fu- vary. They can include headaches, colleague Dr. Aluko Hope, we have they have to continue to see so many ture column, I will demonstrate for joint pain, diarrhea and muscle seen over 300 patients since June who routinely go unpunished for not the Norwood News readers how one aches. More commonly, people report 2020. If you or someone you know is paying their fare as well. vote made a difference, but please fatigue, shortness of breath, chest struggling with “long COVID,” you Larry Penner make sure you are registered to vote, pain, and difficulty with memory can make an appointment by calling Great Neck and do plan on voting in June. Thank and concentration. For many people, (844) 556 6683, and then, choosing ex- you. their sense of smell and taste has not tension 36. City Council District 11 Richard Marias I admired the responses of the In- Norwood returned to normal. New or worsen- Vaccine distribution is bringing quiring Photographer question con- ing anxiety and depression is com- hope that someday soon this pan- cerning the departure of our NYC Editor’s Note: We reserve the mon. People often worry that they demic will be over, but we cannot for- Councilman Andrew Cohen to take a right to edit letters for space, clar- will never get better, or that they will get that some people will continue to judgeship. I want to commend the ap- ity, civility, and accuracy. get COVID again and get even sicker. suffer for months and maybe years It can be incredibly difficult for “long- with the effects of the virus. We are haulers” when multiple members of a here to help them. household get COVID-19, but they are Dr. Seth Congdon is co-director of Madame P 's Beauty World the only ones still feeling the conse- the Montefiore COVID-19 Recovery quences, weeks or months later. and Engagement (CORE) clinic. Specializing in Basic Haircare, Press n Curl, Relaxer and Silk Press s (AIRCUTTING /&& TO REPORT A STORY TO THE s 7AVE .OUVEAU &/2 3%.)/23 s #AREFREE #URL 4UESDAY 7EDNESDAY 4HURSDAY s (AIR #OLORING /&& NORWOOD NEWS s !FROS 7ELCOME #/,,%'% 345$%.43 -UST BRING AD CALL US AT 718-324-4998 %AST &ORDHAM 2D "RONX . 9 s January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News • 17 Chaos Follows Sepúlveda Arrest (continued from page 1) up with the pandemic, I haven’t noticed calling on Senator Sepúlveda to im- A WPIX cameraman refused to Sepúlveda had that morning turned too much of what he’s done.” She added, mediately resign from the Senate.” go inside the building, saying, “You himself in at the 48th precinct in the “One thing I could say is, I don’t hear Meanwhile, Assemblywoman Na- want coverage? Come out here. You context of Saturday’s incident and had too much about him. So, he’s like miss- thalia Fernández, who represents don’t want it?” The cameraman then th been charged with criminal obstruc- ing in action a lot of times.” the 80 Assembly District, issued a turned to a handful of other members tion of breathing. As reported by the Norwood News, statement that read, “Unfortunately, of the media and said, “I don’t know At his arraignment more than 12 on the afternoon of Jan. 12, Raskin re- this is not the first time these alle- about you, but I want to live.” The hours later, at Bronx Criminal Court leased a brief statement in reference to gations have been brought against Sepúlveda rep then said he would on East 161st Street, Sepúlveda wore a the senator’s arrest, saying, “Mr. Sep- the Senator.” Again, Norwood News try and accommodate the journal- grey shirt, black slacks and a facemask úlveda has been the victim of recur- cannot currently corroborate these ists’ requests for interviews. as he watched a monitor of the virtual ring physical abuse by his estranged assertions and can only Inside the building lobby, News courtroom from “Interview Booth 5G,” spouse for approximately nine years, a confirm that the District Attor- 12, The Bronx reported that the toy at just after 11 p.m. situation he has endured because of the ney’s office said the senator had no giveaway organizer, Rev. Carmen After Criminal Court Judge Beth young child they share together. This previous arrests or convictions. Hernandez, had been discussing Beller told Sepúlveda he would be re- false accusation [of domestic violence] According to John Perez, the the general topic of domestic vio- leased that night but would need to is a calculated attempt, by a disgrun- former District Leader of the 87th lence when she seemed to indicate come back for his next court date, she tled party, to leverage a divorce settle- Assembly District, who may have that Sepúlveda had confessed to the warned the senator, “You need to stay ment.” his eye on Sepúlveda’s Senate seat, charge of domestic violence against away from the complaining witness, Divorce proceedings were refer- Fernández and Cabrera may have his wife. Ms Sepúlveda.” She added, You’re not enced during the course of the sena- been referring to a 2015 incident that News 12 The Bronx reported that to have any contact with her by any tor’s arraignment and it was noted was referred to Family Court, where Sepúlveda appeared uncomfortable means. If you have any contact with her that they are ongoing in the State of the records are sealed. and said, “First of all, this [event] at all, you would face a contempt pro- Florida. Raskin requested that the Fernández, along with Sepúlveda is for the kids today. It’s a wonder- ceeding, do you understand?” order of protection take into con- and a host of other candidates, is ful event. I don’t know if the rever- Sepúlveda, an attorney, whose Sen- sideration any potential visitation currently running for the Bronx end misspoke. I have not admitted to ate website boasts that he “oversaw rights which might ensue as they borough presidency, a position cur- any acts of domestic violence. I want the historic criminal justice reform pertained to the senator’s 9-year-old rently held by Ruben Diaz, Jr. In to make that clear. I am not…. We’ll in ending cash bail” in New York City child. It was noted that no visitation her statement released on Jan. 12, deal with that in another forum, but responded with a simple, “Yes, your rights are currently in place, and Fernández added, “I am calling for right now, it’s really about the chil- Honor.” Beller agreed that the protection the senator to drop out of the race for dren.” After attempting to block two media order would be made subject to any Bronx Borough President, and sub- Sepúlveda then walked directly requests for the release of the audio re- family court orders relating to visi- mit his resignation from the Senate past the media cameras and headed cording, video footage and photographs tation rights in both the State of New immediately.” for his car, as one staffer was over- in the context of the arraignment, Sep- York and the State of Florida. Oon Thursday, Jan. 14, Sepúlveda heard saying to him, “One day at a úlveda’s attorney, Morgan Ray Raskin, In his statement issued earlier was present at a Three Kings Day toy time.” who also connected virtually and re- that day, Raskin added, “The sena- and mask giveaway held in the lobby A News 12 reporter later at- motely and was not in the same room as tor is committed to, and will proac- of a New York City Housing Author- tempted to stop the senator from his client, asked for permission to ad- tively provide, full transparency [re- ity building at 1471 Watson Avenue in driving away, saying, “Do you want dress the senator at one stage. garding the incident] as the matter is Soundview. On the eve of the event, to comment? The only reason why “May I just suggest to my client, resolved.” he issued a press release announc- we came is because we were told your Honor, that he be mindful that Condemnation of domestic vio- ing his planned attendance. you would speak.” Sepúlveda re- there may be press outside, and that lence by elected officials on Jan. 12 At one point, a crowd of 25 or 30 had plied, “I’m sorry guys, thank you.” we’re sending somebody from the fam- was swift and severe following news gathered in the lobby, creating a po- The News 12 reporter then asked, ily, at least, to try and meet him.” Judge of the senator’s arrest, with the New tentially dangerous environment in “Is this a cover up? You bring us out Beller replied, “Okay.” York State Senate quickly removing the context of the pandemic. As vari- here for the toy drive, and then you It is unknown if the three burly men Sepúlveda from all committee duties ous media and camera people began don’t talk?” The senator did not re- who jumped out of an SUV parked at while he was still detained. setting up outside on the sidewalk to spond. the prisoner release exit at Bronx Cen- New York City Councilman for the interview the senator, a representa- Attempts to reach Elizabeth Sep- th tral Booking on Sheridan Avenue were 14 District and majority whip, Fer- tive from his office announced that úlveda for comment on the alleged members of “the family,” or not, but the nando Cabrera, issued a statement residents attending the giveaway did domestic violence incident were un- men positioned themselves outside the that read in part, “It is unconscio- not want to come outside, appearing successful. Sepúlveda is due back in door in such a way as to impede the tak- nable that Senator Sepúlveda could to suggest, at the same time, that court on Feb. 24. ing of any photographs. After one of the remain in his position as a State the media should therefore enter the Anyone suffering from domestic men received a phone call, the others Senator following multiple domestic building if they wanted to catch the violence is urged to call 311 or 1 (800) jumped back in the vehicle, and sped violence incidents, and a charge of senator in action. 861-HOPE. around the corner towards Sherman obstruction [of breathing].” Avenue where it’s believed Sepúlveda The criminal complaint obtained was allowed exit the building via an al- from the Bronx District Attorney ternate door. charged Sepúlveda with assault in ADVERTISE TODAY At around midnight on Jan. 12, the 3rd degree, criminal obstruc- in the “Nancy,” from Concourse Village was tion of breathing, and harassment. It pulling a shopping cart down Sherman made no mention of a second or prior Avenue when she was informed of her domestic violence incident. Nearly 40,000 readers means 40,000 customers. senator’s arrest. Recalling a rally she Norwood News reached out to the SELL YOUR BRAND. MAKE MONEY. Advertise in the Norwood News. Call 718-324-4998. attended in Albany on Sepúlveda’s first Bronx District Attorney’s office for day in office, Nancy said, “We took pic- information on any prior arrests or tures with him and everything.” convictions and was informed that Asked how she felt about the sena- there were none. tor’s job performance, she replied, “To Cabrera’s statement concluded, “As a strong advocate for domestic NORWOOD NEWS be honest with you, I’ve been so caught 2ESERVOIR /VAL % s "RONX .9 violence victims and programs, I’m Report: Quarter of the Bronx Still Food Insecure 18 • January 21-February 3, 2021 • Norwood News Classifi eds Professional Directory
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Public and Community Meetings
Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the 52nd PRECINCT COMMUNITY COUNCIL meetings have been held via ZOOM. The next meeting will be held on Thursday, Jan. 28, at 6 p.m. Call the 52nd Precinct Community Affairs office at 718-220-5824 for further details.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March, BRONX COMMUNITY BOARD 7 meetings have been held via ZOOM. The next full Board meeting will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021 at 6.30 p.m. Zoom details will be circulated ahead of the meeting. Contact mirosario@ cb.nyc.gov to be added to the distribution list.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March, BEDFORD MOSHOLU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION meetings have been held via ZOOM. Generally, the meetings are held virtually on the first Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. For further details, contact bedfordmosholu@ verizon.net.
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resolving any harm they may have see where the other side is coming caused. from in the conflict. It can move a The center also gives fee-based person to a clearer understanding Opinion trainings on anger management, di- of the matter and can make feelings versity, conflict resolution, etc. We tangible. Community Resources for Dealing with Disputes also provide training and an appren- The feelings of being heard and ticeship program for those inter- understood are valuable. When the ested in becoming mediators. neutral party summarizes what a By LYNN WILLIAMS mediation center in New York State. We are sensitive to the needs of person says, both in terms of content In the wake of Dr. Martin Luther It is also home to New York State’s our fellow community members. As and emotion; it’s priceless. It can help King Jr. Weekend, I can’t think of a only certified Spanish speaking Ba- a result, we provide mediation ser- move the impossible to possible. better time to evaluate how much of a sic Mediation Training trainer, Dr. vices during the daytime, and after Dialogue can facilitate movement part I play in the peaceful resolution Steven Slate, who serves as the exec- work hours in the evening. Due to in a conflict. Sometimes it takes a of conflict or think of a better way to utive director of the center. our concern for and compliance with neutral party for someone to have a evaluate Dr. King’s legacy of nonvio- IMCR has a various pool of me- public safety, we provide virtual and productive conversation, moving the lence, than to discuss mediation. diators to serve the diverse commu- telephone mediation services only, impossible to possible. Conflicts can Mediation is a dispute resolution nities in Bronx County. The center at this time. This gives everyone an be resolved. intervention tool used to resolve con- provides free mediation services and opportunity to have access to justice If you are interested in mediation flict. During intervention, a neutral restorative justice practices, such as (for court cases) and the option of services, booking a fee-based train- party assists in facilitating a conver- conflict coaching, to name one. mediation services for other types of ing session or facilitation, please feel sation between two or more disput- We mediate a wide range of issues, disputes. free to call us at (718) 585- 1190. ing parties with the aim of finding a such as special education, workplace Mediation allows people address resolution. concerns, family (parent/child) situ- problems without involving law en- Lynn Williams is a mediator at All parties must decide if they are ations, custody and visitation needs, forcement or the court system. It The Institute for Mediation and Con- willing to participate in mediation small claims court matters, housing also allows the parties to have an flict Resolution, located near The Hub because it is a voluntary process. complaints (such as landlord- tenant, active role in deciding the outcome in the Bronx. She works with families The Institute for Mediation and Con- neighbors, roommates), child sup- of the dispute. Mediation also gives in the community and in court. Wil- flict Resolution (IMCR) is a media- port modifications, etc. community members the ability to liams provides fee-based dispute reso- tion center that serves Bronx County. Our center also has a program address quality of life issues. lution and youth and women’s minis- Such centers have been serving the (Community Resolve) which collab- Finally, mediation can allow try development training to religious New York City community for over orates with the Department of Pro- things not seen at a first glance, to communities. During her hiatus from fifty years. bation to work with court-involved become visible. The possibility of the classroom, she mentors law stu- IMCR was the first mediation cen- youth aged 16 and 17. This program peace and resolution can inspire dents and apprentices as they provide ter in New York City, and the second works with youth to assist them in hope. The process can help parties mediation through the court.
ADVERTISE TODAY Correction in the In edition Vol 34. No 1. dated January 7-20, 2021, both the headline and story on page 6 entitled, “Sammy Ravelo Runs for Bronx BP” were correct. Nearly 40,000 readers means 40,000 customers. However, in our print edition, in the smaller sidebar headline on page 1, we SELL YOUR BRAND. MAKE MONEY. incorrectly stated that Mr. Ravelo was running for mayor. We corrected this Advertise in the Norwood News. Call 718-324-4998. in the pdf version and reached out to Mr. Ravelo to apologize. We apologize for this oversight to our readers also. In the same edition, on page 16, in the story entitled, “Two Restaurant Fires in Bedford Park,” we reported that two fires occurred in Bedford Park. NORWOOD NEWS 2ESERVOIR /VAL % s "RONX .9 In fact, one was in Fordham Heights. We apologize for this oversight.
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