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VolORWOOD 28, NoQ 7 • 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 • AEWSQp r i l 16-29, 2015 NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 ARMORY ICE PLAN
Year Long Tre REMAINS A GO Project For Oval Park Questions linger on oversight of Community Benefits Agreement pg. 3
Pot Debate Rages After Valentine Ave. Death | pg. 5
Photo courtesy Kingsbridge National Ice Center Partners LLC A NEW LOOK of a rendering of the highly anticipated Kingsbridge National Ice Center, which organizers say will open in 2018 despite a year of delays. Easter Egg Hunt
By HAYDEE CAMACHO 5,000-seat arena at the Kings- Community Advisory Council signed the document, render- Highlights | pg. 10 At a recent meeting spon- bridge Armory are proceeding (CAC), born out of a stipulation ing any challenge useless. Still, sored by Community Board 7’s apace despite nearly a year of from the Community Benefits questions persist. Economic Development Com- delays. Agreement (CBA). The legally Messier, who’s been tied to mittee, Mark Messier, CEO But as officials get the proj- binding contract became a the project since 2012, pledged of Kingsbridge National Ice ect off the ground, albeit slow, flashpoint to the Kingsbridge to be guided by the principles Out&About Center (KNIC), reassured the community members have felt neighborhood’s acceptance of of the Community Benefits pg. 18 stakeholders in and around the closed out of its progress and the project. But, good or bad, Agreement brokered by com- Kingsbridge community that even more confounded by proce- the CBA has become a closed munity stakeholders and KNIC plans to develop a nine-rink, dures involving the impending matter after 26 signatories (continued on page 19)
7KH 5RVDO\Q (QUROO QRZ IRU *UDGHV N (QUROO QRZ IRU *UDGHV N 6SDQLVK (QJOLVK KWWS \DORZFKDUWHURUJ$SSO\ 6SDQLVK (QJOLVK KWWS \DORZFKDUWHURUJ$SSO\ $ 0RGHUQ &ODVVLF *UDGH 6FKRRO $ 0RGHUQ &ODVVLF *UDGH 6FKRRO 2 • April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST Vol. 28, No. 8 Vol. 27, No. 10 NorwoodVol. News 27, No.is published 10 bi-weeklyVol. 27, on No.Thursdays 10 by As Participatory Budgeting Deadline MosholuNorwood Preservation News Corporationis published (MPC) Norwood3400 Reservoir News isOval published East bi-weeklyNorwood News on Thursdays is published by bi-weeklyBronx, New on ThursdaysYork 10467 by Mosholubi-weeklyPhone: Preservation on 718 Thursdays 324 4998Corporation by MosholuMosholu Preservation Corporation Corporation Nears, Organizers Want Your Vote 3400Fax: Reservoir 718 324 Oval2917 East E-mail: [email protected] Reservoir Oval Oval East East Web.:Bronx, www.norwoodnews.org New York 10467 Bronx,Bronx, New New York York 10467 10467 By DAVID CRUZ ments, encourage people to partici- Participatory budgeting, a drawn pate, get them to vote, get them to be Publisher andPhone:Phone: Executive 718 718 324 324 4998 Director, 4998 MPC Phone: 718 324 4998 out process that seeks input from engaged. That takes a lot of work on Roberto S. GarciaFax:Fax: 718718 324 324 2917 2917 E-mail: [email protected] residents over how $1 million in tax- the ground.” E-mail: [email protected]: 718 324 2917 DeputyE-mail: Director,Web: [email protected] www.norwoodnews.org MPC payer money should be allocated, has A total of 11 projects were ulti- Marcia CameronWeb: www.norwoodnews.org Web: www.norwoodnews.org reached its zenith—your vote. mately chosen within varying neigh- Editor-in-Chief, Norwood News DavidPublisher Cruz CEO, Mosholu After nine months of residents borhoods of Cohen’s district. Some Mosholu Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQ hashing out ideas, organizers invite final proposals include park renova- PublisherAccounts Receivable CEO, Mosholu PublisherCorporation Corporation MosholuDawn McEvoy Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQCEO, Mosholu residents as young as age 16 to stop by tions, school upgrades and bus count- MosholuEditor-in-Chief Preservation Roberto S. Garcia Corporation Corporation3UHVHUYDWLRQ familiar community centers and li- down clocks throughout District 11. SalesCorporationDavid Representative Cruz Corporation Vivian Carter Roberto S. Garcia braries until April 18 to cast their vote For months, Cohen handed some of Editor-in-Chief Roberto S. Garcia DavidProofreaderEditor-in-Chief&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ Cruz on a long-lasting project within a coun- the legislative reins to residents who JudyDavidDawn Noy Cruz McEvoy cil district. took part in participatory budgeting Regular$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH Contributors In this case, it’s Councilman An- sessions, hoping a more hands-on ap- &ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJDawn McEvoy DawnDavid&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ McEvoy Greene, Adi Talwar drew Cohen’s 11th District in the north proach leads to a purer democratic DawnProofreader McEvoy InternsJudy Noy and northwest Bronx that covers Nor- process. Some parameters that went $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOHJenny Sharp, Jasmine Gomez Dawn$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH3URGXFWLRQ McEvoy wood, Van Cortlandt Village, River- into the process included ensuring the ContributorsDawnNeil deMauseMcEvoy dale, Fieldston, Woodlawn and Wake- selected project would be lasting. ProofreaderKimberly Jacobs, Haydee Camacho 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV field. The project with the most votes But the process has also been one JudyProofreader Noy JudyDavid Noy Greene, Adi Talwar will be earmarked for this year’s capi- of true participatory investment. Nine 3URGXFWLRQInternsFor display advertising, 3URGXFWLRQ tal budget. The remaining sites, times, months were required of residents to NeilShayla deMause Love,call Paolo (718) Mossetti, 324-4998. Justin McCallum, Photo courtesy Councilman Andrew Cohen’s Of ce Neiland deMause Chelsea George and locations include: draft ideas, and appoint budget dele- 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV FILLING OUT HIS BALLOT for participa- Support5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV Your gates to pore over ideas that are later DavidFor displayGreene, advertising, Adi Talwar call (718) 324-4998. tory budgeting’s nal project is Council- CommunityDavid Greene, Adi Newspaper! Talwar April 16 man Andrew Cohen, one of three Bronx vetted by city agencies. Interns TheSupport Norwood News Your is a not-for-pro t publication Van Cortlandt Public Library elected of cials who worked participa- “Now constituents are engaging di- ShaylaInterns Love, Paolo Mossetti, Justin McCallum, andShaylaCommunity relies Love, upon Paolo the Newspaper! supportMossetti, of Justin its advertisers McCallum, 3874 Sedgwick Ave., 3 to 6 p.m. tory budgeting sessions in their districts. rectly with representatives from city andand Chelseareaders toGeorge produce a quality community andThe Chelsea Norwood George NewsLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE- April 17 Cohen cast his ballot at the Riverdale YM- agencies to talk about each of those newspaper.lication and Torelies support upon the your support paper, of its become Woodlawn Public Library YMHA on April 12. projects to find out whether or not Fora memberadvertisers display andadvertising, and receivereaders to acall producesubscription (718) a quality324-4998. for one year.Forcommunity display advertising,newspaper. To call support (718) your 324-4998. paper, 4355 Katonah Ave., 2 to 5 p.m. they’re feasible,” said Mark-Viverito. become a member and receive a subscription April 18 all, $30 million has been set aside for “So they’re learning about the pro- SupportSimplyfor one mail year. Yourcheck or money order for $40 to: Support Your Mosholu Montefiore this process. cess, they’re understanding what proj- CommunityNorwood News, 3400Newspaper! Reservoir Oval East, Bronx,Simply NY mail 10467. check or money order for $40 Community Center The $1 million adds up to 20 percent ects cost, they’re understanding what TheCommunity Norwood News Newspaper!LVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE - Theto: Norwood Norwood News, News 3400LVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE Reservoir Oval East, - 3450 DeKalb Ave., 10 a.m. to noon of a council member’s capital budget, it takes to get a project funded.” licationBronx, and NY 10467.relies upon the support of its Norwoodlication and News relies is uponnot responsible the support for of its advertiserstypographical and errors. readers Opinions to produce expressed a quality in monies that last for five years and are The process can be off putting to communitysignedadvertisersNorwood letters News newspaper.and and isreaders not bylined responsible To to supportcolumnsproduce for typo your arepresent- quality paper, Proper identification is required earmarked for construction projects low-income residents whose pressing communitygraphical errors. newspaper. Opinions To expressed support in yoursigned paper, becomethe sole aopinion member of andthe authorreceive and a subscription are not to take part in the voting process. Or- that cost more than $35,000. It’s far priorities are not evening meetings. necessarilybecomeletters anda member bylinedthose columnsof and Mosholu receive represent Preservation a subscriptionthe sole for one year. ganizers are flexible in acceptable ID, removed from the regular decision- “Some people are going to stick it Corporationforopinion one year. of the or author Monte and oreare notMedical necessarily Center. Editorialsthose of Mosholurepresent Preservation the views Corporations of the editor with tax forms, student IDs and medi- making powers of a council member, through the six months, others may SimplyRU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS mail check or money order for $40- only. The newspaper reserves the right cal bills deemed appropriate. who often chooses a project of their not, but you can come into this pro- to:toSimply limitresentNorwood ormail the refuse views checkNews, ofadvertising the or3400 moneyeditor Reservoir and/or itorder deems publisher forOval $40 East, only. The newspaper reserves the right to limit Bronx Councilman Ritchie Torres own accord. cess at any point,” said Mark-Viver- Bronx,objectionable.to: Norwood NY 10467. News, Advertisements 3400 Reservoir appearing Oval East, inBronx, thisor refuse paper NY advertising10467. cannot it be deems used objectionable. without and Council Speaker Melissa Mark- “It’s a lot of work,” said Mark-Vi- ito. “It’s not like if you didn’t come to Advertisements appearing in this paper cannot the written permission of the Norwood Viverito have scheduled their own PB verito in a conference call. “It’s a lot the first meeting you’re not going to NorwoodNews.be used Letters Newswithout to is the thenot written editorresponsible permission are subject for of Nortypo to- - Norwoodwood News. News Letters is not to theresponsible editor are subject for typo - graphicalcondensation errors. and Opinions editing. expressed Writers should in signed processes, a trend that’s catching on of work to go into the neighborhoods, be welcome in any of the subsequent graphicalto condensation errors. and Opinions editing. Writersexpressed should in signed lettersinclude and their bylined af liation columns or special represent interest the ifsole among other City Council members. In into public housing, into develop- meetings.” LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ any.letters Anonymous and bylined letters columns are representnot published the sole opinionAnonymous of the letters author are and not publishedare not necessarilybut your butopinion your of name the author can be and withheld are not upon necessarily thosename of canMosholu be withheld Preservation if requested. Corporations RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHSrequest.those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations- resentRU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS the views of the editor and/or publisher- Public and Community Meetings only.resent The the newspaper views of the reserves editor and/or the right publisher to limit only.Mosholu The newspaperPreservation Corporationreserves theis a right to limit COMMUNITY BOARD 7 will hold its general board meeting on April 21 at the R.A.I.N. Bailey Senior Center, 2660 or refuseQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH advertising it deems objectionable. or refuse advertising it deems objectionable. AdvertisementsMedical Center. appearing in this paper cannot Bailey Ave., at 6:30 p.m. CB7 committees are held on the following dates at the board office, 229A E. 204th St., at 6:30 beAdvertisements used without theappearing written inpermission this paper of cannot Nor- p.m. unless otherwise noted: Housing/Land Use & Zoning meets April 15; Education/Libraries & Youth Services be used without the written permission of Nor- woodMosholu News. Preservation Letters to theCorporation editor are is subject a non- meets April 16; Veterans Committee meets April 16 at 7:30 p.m.; Parks & Recreation meets April 22; Economic De- wood News. Letters to the editor are subject topro condensation t support corporation and editing. of Writers Monte should ore velopment meets April 28; Community Relations/LTP meets April 28 at 7:30 p.m. For more information call (718) Medicalto condensation Center. and editing. Writers should LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ 933-5650. AnonymousLQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ letters are not published but your nameAnonymous can be letters withheld are if not requested. published but your name can be withheld if requested. THE 52ND PRECINCT COMMUNITY COUNCIL meets April 23, at Christ Disciple International Ministries, 3021-33 Webster Ave., at 7 p.m. For more information, call (718) 220-5824. Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a QRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUHMosholu Preservation Corporation is a MedicalQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH Center. Medical Center. April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News • 3 Over Six Dozen Trees to Be Replaced in Oval Park By JASMINE GOMEZ require some grooming such as a Several dozen trees at Wil- trimming. liamsbridge Oval Park have been A walk through the park, marked by the Parks Department considered one of the jewels of for removal, with a portion of the the Norwood community, shows trees slated for replacement in neighbors exercising, walking what appears to be a large scale their dogs, playing a soccer game, tree maintenance project. or just relaxing on the bench tak- The New York City Department ing in the view. The Oval includes of Parks said that 71 trees will be a running track, a large multi-use replaced, costing an average $650 field, a playground for children, per tree. The project followed a and a basketball court, among its check by arborists from the New share of plant and animal life. York City Parks Department. The Domingo de Los Santos, a Oval has a specific tree planting neighbor exercising at the park, plan in place. called the trees the “life of the “We will be removing the park.” Another neighbor added trees in the coming weeks, and that trees offer a hint of fresh a new set of healthy trees will be air. planted in their place for the con- Sanchez noted that the plant- tinued beauty and health of Wil- ing of new trees is currently a liamsbridge Oval Park,” said a Photo by David Cruz waiting game, with the city now Parks Department spokesperson DOZENS OF TREES have been marked around Williamsbridge Oval Park for removal, expected to plant new trees some- in a statement. part of a large scale maintenance project. time in the future. The marks, all spray painted The Parks Department did note with a number and letter or x, Sheila Sanchez, the president marks were a method of record- that it will hold an upcoming tree were spotted throughout the park. of the Friends of Williamsbridge ing the tree’s condition for fur- planting event, encouraging park A high concentration of x-marked Oval Park, a grassroots group ther action. An x on a tree means advocates to become a tree pruner trees were found on the northern that monitors the park, told the tree will be chopped down, or volunteer with Tree Count tree end of the park. the Norwood News that the tree while a dot indicates a tree will census. Want Stronger Hair? Take the Bonita 90-day Challenge! Promotes healthy hair Advanced skin formula Supports healthy nails LET’S MAKE BEAUTIFUL MUSCLES TOGETHER JOIN FOR $9.95/MONTH. Bonita Hair Skin & Nails $2499 99 BRING THIS IN FOR A Save $10! Buy 2 for 19 each! 1-DAY GUEST PASS! 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If they smoke in They shouldn’t consider that a for miniscule crimes because it shouldn’t even be considered a someone like that. The law is public then give them a summons. crime. Cigarettes kill more people poses too much risk to the police, crime, and all it does is clog up the law, but I think the police If they are teens, give them a than weed. They should just the person or perpetrator and the the courts and the jails. It doesn’t should go about some situations summons and call their parents. legalize it already. public. Especially for marijuana. I make sense. a different way. I just think that Maybe he wouldn’t have run away Sammy Falcón don’t even think that’s a crime, it’s Name withheld this is a neighborhood, especially if he didn’t face an arrest. West Farms a violation and for you to chase Fordham this block, where things happen. Jany Arias someone and have someone go If he wasn’t a threat and they just Parkchester through something like that, it’s smelled marijuana, they shouldn’t horrifi c. It might save lives if they have chased him upstairs to the actually changed this. roof. Legally, you can carry 25 Winston Bailey grams of marijuana, but smoking Belmont in the street is still illegal. Kevin DeJesus Editor’s Note: Have an idea for an Inquiring Photographer Kingsbridge question? Send suggestions to [email protected]. April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News • 5 A Death on Valentine Avenue Inspires Marijuana Debate By JASMINE GOMEZ land. Garner, pursued by police last and DAVID CRUZ summer for selling un-taxed ciga- The news of a Mott Haven rettes, died after being placed in a teen plunging six stories from a build- chokehold as he resisted arrest. ing in Fordham on April 2 has one The low-level misdemeanor fell un- neighborhood reflecting on the crim- der the purview of Broken Windows, a inality of marijuana and its effect on theory where police respond to simple their local community. quality of life crimes in the hopes of Emotions are mixed over the stemming serious crimes. Aloia noted circumstances that led 17-year-old that pot smoking inside the 2685 lobby Hakeem Kuta to jump from the rooftop is only the “tip of the iceberg.” at 2685 Valentine Ave. as he attempted “If you’re going to tolerate kids loi- to evade police officers stopping him tering and smoking marijuana, well, for smoking marijuana in a lobby. Po- what’s next? Are we going to shoot lice say they were tipped by a passerby up in the hallways with heroin?” said that Kuta and his friends were smok- Photo by David Cruz Aloia. “Are we going to be dealing in ing pot in the lobby. Two days later, THE BUILDING WHERE 17-year-old Hakeem Kuta was reported to have been found your building? And that’s going to in- Kuta died at St. Barnabas Hospital. smoking pot. Police say Kuta evaded police, running towards the rooftop where he at- vite bigger problems. People are go- Although there is debate and uncer- tempted to jump. He plunged six stories and would later die from his injuries. ing to be coming in, carrying guns, tainty surrounding the circumstances or hardcore dealers looking for bigger that led to Kuta’s death, residents get the chance to start life,” said Ryan. roe College School of Criminal Justice stuff and now you lost your building.” agreed that the death of a young man “The kid didn’t even get a chance.” and a retired NYPD sergeant, agreed But the question remains: What ex- was unfortunate to the neighborhood, Michael Delbois, a resident of an- that had Kuta remained he would have actly would have happened to Kuta had which recently experienced the loss of other building on Valentine Ave., received a juvenile summons. “His he stopped? It’s a question that will go 18-year-old Jonathan “Tiko” Martinez, noted that “You don’t get arrested for violation is punishable only by a fine unanswered. One thing agreed on by shot to death on March 14 just several marijuana. You get a ticket. [Kuta] of not more than $100,” said Aloia, who some Valentine Avenue residents is buildings down from where Kuta fell. didn’t know that. If you know that you defended officers for responding to the Kuta should never have lost his life Marc Ryan, a neighbor who wit- not gonna get arrested, you would just incident. over pot. nessed Kuta’s body shortly after it fell, sit there and get the ticket. If he knew Embedded in the rooftop incident “A young kid lost his life over expressed anger at the reality that Kuta that, he wouldn’t have run.” were the tiny hallmarks of the Eric what?” asked Ryan the neighbor. “For died so young. “…The kid didn’t even Augie Aloia, a professor at the Mon- Garner chokehold case in Staten Is- what? What did he lose his life for?” NORTH CENTRAL BRONX HOSPITAL Where Dreams Come True COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES Midwifery Services Nutrition Education Free Pregnancy Testing Newborn Services Preconception Healthcare In-Hospital Circumcision Fertility Services Postpartum Care GYN Services Breastfeeding Classes Adolescent Services Infant Care Classes Prenatal Care Childbirth Education Family Planning Baby Showers For more information about NCBH’s Labor & Delivery Service please call (718) 519-3827. NORTH CENTRAL BRONX HOSPITAL 3424 Kossuth Avenue, Bronx, NY 10467 HHC - New York City Health & Hospitals Corporation (nyc.gov/hhc) 6 • April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News ,ETTERS 4O 4HE %DITOR In response to the Letter to the teria. The site we chose was the closest clients have come to the office. We made from. If this does not fit the situ- Editor criticizing West Bronx to our old site. have made arrangements with any ation the writer is speaking about, I Housing in the April 2 - 15, 2015: We did not find a location until two number of clients since the move to apologize. I speak to dozens of owners weeks before we needed to be out of old make things easier for them, includ- a year, and have no specifics to draw West Bronx Housing’s space. Because of our very small staff ing doing home visits. All you need to from. move was not our choice. (three full time workers, two part-time do is call, and let us know. The phone The description of the window prob- workers), the need to meet the move- numbers did not change. And while lem in this letter sounds dreadful, but Like many businesses in Norwood, out deadline and to notify as many of I may be “on the ball” (thank you for how were we to know of them unless we lost our lease. We would have loved our clients as possible, we mailed out that, by the way), I can’t read minds. either the tenant or landlord told us? to stay in the immediate area, but de- over 3,000 postcards in order to reach The second part of this letter baf- As I said earlier, I don’t read minds. spite three months searching, we were as many current and former clients as fles me. It’s very difficult to figure out I would have been happy to try to get unable to find a spot that fit our crite- possible. If the writer did not receive what the writer is talking about. the repairs made for the tenant, had I ria: big enough to hold our staff, wheel- one, I apologize. It certainly wasn’t for I’ve reviewed our daily logs going known. chair accessible, within our catchment want of trying. We also leafleted in the back four years, and have no record In summing up, let me repeat that area (which includes all of Bronx Com- community, and put up signs on the of any landlord calling or coming in we are happy to work with tenants munity Boards 5 and 7 (the area south front door of our old space. (That sign looking for help with windows. and owners at no cost to them, as we of Woodlawn Cemetery and north of was torn down, and replaced by us at If the landlord called asking for have always been. The fastest way to the Cross Bronx Expressway and from least four times). loans to fix SOME windows in the get assistance is to simply call. Our Webster Avenue to the Harlem River), I’m sorry the writer of this letter building, the truth is that there is phone numbers are (718) 798-0929 or and within our budget. This last was has had difficulty getting to our new no such assistance available via the (718) 652-3344. We do work by appoint- particularly difficult, in light of the office. Had he or she called, we would City. We would have told him that he ment but we can generally see people fact that our budget has been cut every have worked with them to find a solu- would need to apply for assistance via within a day or two. You can make an year for the last six years. In fact, we tion to their problem. I can tell you a bank. MCI benefits, which increase appointment over the phone. We are found only two spaces that met our cri- that since our move in November, 498 the rent of every tenant, are only avail- open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to able to owners if they replace EVERY 5 p.m. for calls. And again, we will try window in the building, and even then to work with you to meet your needs, if they can only apply once every 15 to 25 you cannot get here. years, depending on what material the Sally Dunford, Executive Director window frames being replaced were West Bronx Housing Pothole Perils on Perry Avenue Photo by Jenny Sharp THE NORWOOD NEWS has received several calls on this pothole in front of the McKeon Funeral Home on Perry Avenue, that’s giving drivers plenty of head- aches. We’re told that 311 calls have inspired the city Department of Transporta- tion to send out a crew to patch up the pothole. We’ll update readers in the next edition. April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News • 7 Related Cos. Documents Reveal Little in Way of Deal By DAVID CRUZ use $90 million of city pension funds to Further insight into the New York buy the north Bronx stock from Steven Comptroller’s Office approval of a Wasserman. multi-billion dollar real estate firm’s “I don’t understand why so much purchase of Bronx properties paid has been redacted, and why,” said with city pension funds came short, Sally Dunford, executive director of despite a Freedom of Information re- West Bronx Housing, which has moni- quest from the Norwood News. tored heat issues at the Related build- The 43-page, 2012 Request for Pro- ings since early January. “They say posal from The Related Companies, it’s because it’s ‘trade secrets,’ but owners of 40,000 units of affordable among the materials redacted were housing citywide, was obtained by the biographical sketches of the people Norwood News on April 1, with some running Related, and that information pages completely blacked out. The re- appears on Related’s website. So how is daction was made to protect trade se- Photo by David Cruz that a trade secret?” crets on behalf of the 40 -year real estate BLACKED OUT DOCUMENTS turned over via Freedom of Information request reveal Eric Sumberg, a spokesman for little in how The Related Companies won an RFP to buy 36 Bronx buildings using city firm, according to the Comptroller’s Comptroller Scott Stringer, said, “The pension funds. Office. Related ultimately purchased a New York City Pension Funds have a stock of 36 properties mostly through- high standard for transparency and out the northwest Bronx in 2012. the firm’s newly acquired buildings, A portion of the $253 million disclosure. We report on a quarterly Omitted from the redacted RFP in- mostly in the northwest Bronx. Acri- awarded to The Related Companies basis how our investments have per- cluded no rate of return disclosures for mony followed, leaving one housing would go towards investment of multi- formed and fees that have been paid.” its Bronx portfolio investment, how the advocacy group to inquire how Related family homes found in the north end A spokeswoman for Related said firm would monitor the investment, secured funding from the New York of the Bronx as a way to raise afford- the firm’s efforts to resolve issues in- and how it plans to minimize risk. Re- City Employees Retirement System, able housing options to New Yorkers cluded the establishment of a hotline, lated had hired its subsidiary, Simply Teachers Retirement System, New displaced by Superstorm Sandy. Re- $20 million in repairs for the proper- Better Apartment Homes, to manage York City Police Pension Fund, New lated also intended to create a loan ties, and a “meet the manager” series the properties. York City Fire Department Pension program for property owners shorted for tenants. The company did not re- The purchase by Related resulted Fund and Board of Education Retire- from insurance payouts to fix derelict spond to requests on its rates of return in nagging heating issues at some of ment System. buildings. In all, the company would for investment properties. 8 • April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News THE BRONX BELTWAY By DAVID CRUZ Rivera’s Presence Sought Jr., who’s allowed the media to and Hispanic students made the Kudos to Assemblyman Jose Rivera vs. Klein run wild over his speculative fold. “We cannot accept this as Rivera’s office for finally an- Moving from one Rivera to an- run for New York City mayor. the status quo,” Espaillat said in swering a request for a represen- other, Sen. Gustavo Rivera did The latest birthday comes a statement. tative to take part in the Bedford not mince words when he blasted with some big names in the host But ready to fight the bill Mosholu Community Associa- his colleague, Independent Dem- committee. They include real “tooth and nail” is Assemblyman tion’s monthly meetings. It did ocratic Conference leader and estate giant Joe Farkas, former Jeff Dinowitz, who has consis- take over a year. Sen. Jeff Klein, for being the Connecticut Senator Joe Lieber- tently showed a distaste for any Rivera has missed the town so-called “fourth person in the man, and Prestige Properties barometer of specialized high hall-style forums for at least a room” over Senate Democratic head Sam Shalem, all part of school admission other than the year despite the group mailing Conference Leader Andrea Stew- the committee that seeks to re- test score. him meeting notices. The slight art-Cousins during budget talks. turn the favor for Diaz for sup- The chances of this bill ever resulted in endless pleading by “Not sure why Jeff Klein nec- porting their business interest passing are 50-50 given the spe- BMCA, who early this month essarily was brought into that in the Bronx. Interesting to note cial interest groups behind this said Rivera’s lack of attention conversation,” Rivera told Bronx- that Eva Moskowitz, the liberal academic schism. Espaillat’s bill to Bedford Park made the leafy Talk host Gary Axelbank on leader of Success Academy Char- had support from the New York neighborhood “feel like orphans April 13. “And by Andrea being ter Schools and a strong oppo- City Department of Education out here.” left out the Democratic Confer- nent to Mayor Bill de Blasio, is and United Federation of Teach- Considered across the board ence was left out.” He even took among the guests. ers when he introduced it last to be an absentee politician, Ri- jabs at Governor Andrew Cuomo After all, an invitation to Di- year. vera faced mounting pressure to for not pushing enough Demo- az’s party shows organizers want On Dinowitz’s side is the attend meetings following phone cratic causes, such as the Dream a $500 contribution per guest. Alumni Association of the Bronx calls from district leader Kenny Act, into the budget. Klein’s of- The rich begets rich, so one can High School of Science, a mighty Agosto and an inquiry from fice did not return emails for re- expect even more deep-pocketed group given its small numbers. the Norwood News. Let’s see if buttal. donors in tow. Jon Roberts, VP of the associa- he keeps his word. (Editor’s Presently, Diaz’s campaign tion, said the bill would do noth- Note: The BMCA meets the first BP Birthday Bash cash stands at $1.2 million, ac- ing but “dim the spotlight” over Wednesday of every month except Lots of donors are slated to ap- cording to campaign finance how unprepared black and La- July and August at 8 p.m. at 400 pear at a May 6 birthday bash for figures. It’s double that of his tino students are, which he said E. Mosholu Pkwy. So.) Borough President Ruben Diaz Brooklyn counterpart, Eric Ad- is predicated on bad schools. ams, who currently holds about Though it could be a boon to $666,000 in funds. Adams has hundreds of Bronx students vy- been eyeing a run for office, so ing for entrance into the elite kicking up the kitty is clearly a spectrum of schools, the bill major priority. But Diaz still has could also make the admissions Shop Fordham Road a ways to go if he were to jump- process highly subjective, given “THE OUTDOOR MALL EXPERIENCE” start a serious mayoral cam- the varied standards of grading paign. Last check, Mayor Bill de set by middle schools. Blasio held $10.5 million in cam- paign funds. (Side Note: Mayor Rangel’s Mobile Services Bill de Blasio finally made his Here’s a news item that’s fifth stop in the Bronx this year, something of a rarity for Con- pushing his affordable housing gressman Charles Rangel--mo- agenda on April 14.) bile constituent services in the Bronx. Rangel did so on April 10, Politicizing Specialized HS stopping by the Bronx Library The fight to loosen the all im- Center (their mobile office) with portant test score from the spe- staffers on hand to resolve any OVER 300 cialized high school exam kicked constituent snags. Only there up a notch in Albany, when As- was one problem--the local me- SPECIALTY SHOPS semblyman Charles Barron in- dia was kept out of it. AND CHAINS troduced a measure last month A staffer at Rangel’s office at- that takes into account other fac- tests that it sent notices out via Furniture • Home Improvement tors to the admissions process socia l media, though it pur posely Clothing • Jewelery • Shoes (i.e. body of work, attendance, did not send one out to reporters. Electronics • Discount Outlets etc.) besides the rigid score. Still, roughly five-dozen constit- Cell Phones • Games, The bill is equivalent to a Sen- uents stopped by for resolutions F Accessories • Offi ce Supplies ate version Senator Adriano Es- on housing and tax matters. Said FORDHAM ROAD And Many Fast Food Restaurants paillat hocked last year in a lofty staffer also emphasized that the BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT attempt to balance glaring racial offices would hold constituent For more information contact (718) 562-2104 Acccessible By All inequities within the spectrum services regularly. That’s good NYC Mass Transportation of specialized high schools. Last news. Perhaps the press will get Parking Facilities Available check, only 10 percent of black an invite. April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News • 9 Good Friday Ceremonies Come Amid St. Ann’s Impending Closure By JASMINE GOMEZ culed and flogged him, at some points and DAVID CRUZ even warning patrons to take steps Under gray skys, St. Brendan’s away from Jesus. Church and The Shrine Church of For the pious, seeing a portrayal St. Ann’s, both located in Norwood, of The Passion along Bainbridge Ave- hosted their yearly Good Friday pro- nue’s commercial strip was, at times, a cession, a reenactment of The Passion surreal moment. For some it was sim- of Jesus Christ. This was the final pro- ply moving. cession for St. Ann’s, which is set to “I think about what happened,” merge with St. Brendan’s Church later said Carmen Gonzalez, a neighbor cry- this year. ing as she saw the depiction. “If it hap- It’s a scene that caused nearly ev- pened like that, can you imagine how eryone to pause--a procession that be- it really happened?” gan at the intersection of 204th Street Father George Stewart, pastor of Photo by Jenny Sharp and Webster Avenue. There, actors St. Brendan’s, helped lead the service ACTORS RE-ENACT THE Stations of the Cross along Bainbridge Avenue as part of a portraying Roman soldiers led a blood- as police cleared Bainbridge Avenue. procession on Good Friday. ied Jesus to the site of his crucifixion. The procession headed northward, di- In some instances, spectators glance verting traffic and, at times, halting it ber of St. Ann’s Good Friday proces- you know, it’s tough.” stoically, almost as if they were star- altogether. The crowd was much larger sion, expressed disappointment that The announcement of St. Ann’s ing at an accident. than last year, said Stewart, since pa- St. Ann’s is scheduled to be closed closure for regular worship was “Save yourself Messiah! Call rishioners for St. Ann’s, a Catholic soon. Asked whether she will join made late last year. It was met with your Father to save you!” shouted church at Bainbridge Avenue and East St. Brendan’s after the closing of much dismay and questions, per- one of the Roman soldiers as over 100 Gun Hill Road, had joined them them. St. Ann’s she said, “I have to see be- haps making this final procession men, women, and children looked Partcipation by St. Ann’s seemed cause it’s farther now, you know? I that much more emotional. St. Ann’s on, some crying while others re- noticeably smaller than St. Brendan’s, used to walk two minutes to go to St. will merge with St. Brendan’s this mained with a steady shock. The actor foreshadowing its imminent closing Ann’s, and now I have to, like, pre- coming August, leaving its patrons portraying Jesus delved into the part, and merger with St. Brendan’s. pare a half an hour ahead, which to embrace their new community at limping along Bainbridge Avenue as he Echoing the somber tone of the pro- doesn’t matter. But now I have to St. Brendan’s or seek worship else- carried a wooden cross. Soldiers rid- cession, Nancy Lora, an 18-year mem- deal with a new community, and where. “My Apple Bank has Free Checking Plus a $100 Bonus with Direct Deposit!” TOTALLY FREE Get ExtraValue $ ** * Checking wIth100 Direct Deposit into TOTALLY FREE ExtraValue Checking y FREE Apple Bank Visa® Debit Card y FREE Online and Mobile Banking*** 626 Pelham Parkway South, Bronx 44 East 161st Street, Bronx Sharelle Gardner, Branch Manager, 718-863-9200 Jerry Dillon, Branch Manager, 718-537-2500 12 Westchester Square, Bronx 101 East 170th Street, Bronx Nancy Jones, Branch Manager, 718-863-1000 Eileen Lugo, Branch Manager, 718-681-6172 74 Hugh J. 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PINK, YELLOW AND BLUE eggs are just waiting WITH BRIGHT SMILES on their faces, these young THESE KIDS SPRINT to fi nd eggs during one of the for the picking. kids pick and grab as many eggs as they can in a Easter Egg Hunt journeys. short amount of time. THE FOLKS WHO help make the 2nd annual Easter PARENTS HAVE A BALL, dancing and strutting IT WASN’T ALL about the hunt. Here, this boy gets Egg Hunt a smashing success include members of their stuff at one of the event’s colorful moments. a lesson in archery from this adult. the Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improvement District, the New York City Parks Department, Friends of the Williamsbridge Oval and Partnership for Parks. April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News • 11 BIG SAVINGS THROUGHOUT THE JEROME-GUN HILL AREA! COME SHOP & SAVE BIG ALL YEAR ROUND Over 200 Stores on Jerome Avenue from Mosholu Pkwy. to Gun Hill Road and on Gun Hill Road to Webster Avenue Where Good Neighbors Deserve Great Shopping! All in a Safe, Clean & Friendly Environment Discover the Stores, Quality Service and Savings at the Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improvement District. /JGHBIZ JEROME Business Improvement District -GUN HILL BID Hotline at 718-324-4946 for more information www.jeromegunhillbid.orgor visit us at 12 • April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News Lehman Center’s Spring Lineup Infuses Cultural Arts in Disadvantaged Borough By JENNY SHARP For Eva Bornstein, director of the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, advocating the necessity of art in a community comes with a ferocity in language that’s tangible. “Without art, we are monkeys in the trees, eat- ing and surviving,” Bornstein told the Norwood News. For Bornstein, an immigrant who fled communist Poland to pursue a career in acting, art and performance are far more than extracurricular ac- tivities intended to fill time and elimi- nate boredom. In her opinion, culture is the lynchpin of a successful society and without it, “we have no soul.” Over nearly a decade as director, she has managed to transform the Le- hman Center into a cultural hotspot in the Bronx and a jewel in the crown File Photo/Adi Talwar of an economically disadvantaged BEHIND THE CURTAIN at the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts is executive director Eva Bornstein, a Polish native balancing borough by providing highly diverse the cultural needs of the Bronx for more than 10 years. seasons fitting for her multi-cultural theatergoers. Past headliners included Gran Combo. R&B. Some highlights include Andy entertainment. high talents such as Jerry Seinfeld, This spring’s lineup is no different, Montañez, widely considered the But Bornstein is adamant that Michael Bolton, The Moscow Classical with performances that range from “Godfather of Salsa” on April 18. The these prices are relatively inexpensive Ballet, BB King, and Puerto Rico’s El classical dance to hip-hop to salsa to Center is also producing a new pro- for the level of performance, believ- gram on April 25 entitled “Broadway ing the performance is an investment Moves to the Bronx,” a night where worth making. Additionally the Cen- the stars of Broadway hop the uptown ter’s commitment to the community train, bringing musical theatre clas- is evident, offering $10 tickets to any- sics to the Bronx with them. one under age 12 to some of its many So how does Eva Bornstein, an al- events. This opens the doors to fami- most prolific figure lauded by The New lies and engages a younger audience York Times for her unique approach who might otherwise be unable to ac- to programming, create a season like cess live performances. this? “It is extremely nerve wracking “Without art we become consum- and it’s all about risk taking,” said ers,” said Bornstein. At the Lehman Bornstein. Center, the experience is often one She described her seasons as the that doesn’t require a mantle, but standard repertoire, a sort of cultural builds cultural knowledge that serves review that reaches beyond what is as a foundation for engaged and well- traditionally considered high art like rounded individuals. philharmonics and ballet to include When asked about her hopes for Le- the superstars of other cultures such hman Center in future seasons, Born- as Montañez. “Culture is a part of stein articulated a desire to attract not our history,” said Bornstein, who also only residents of the Bronx with its seeks to highlight the unique musical programming but also tourists. “The history of the Bronx this season with Bronx is a sophisticated, interesting its Fever Re-Union: Old School Hip Hop community,” she said, explaining that Concert on May 9. she plans to continue her work with In a borough that’s the birthplace Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. to of hip-hop, the Center is reuniting lo- support artistic growth within the cal musicians who created this genre Bronx hoping it will create a magnet that’s influenced the world. for outside attention. But in an area where money is tight, For a full list of this season’s perfor- some might say that the ticket prices, mances, visit the website for the Leh- which can run from $10 to as much as man Center for the Performing Arts at $100, is too much to ask of struggling lehmancenter.org or call their box of- working class families for one night of fice at (718) 960-8833. April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News • 13 Cancer Screening Saves Lives We can help You The fight against breast, cervical and colorectal cancer begins with WƌŽŐƌĂŵWĂƌƟĐŝƉĂŶƚƐ regular screenings. We can provide free screenings regardless of ͻLincoln Medical Center citizenship status for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer, if you: ͻDŽƌƌŝƐĂŶŝĂΘd Have no health insurance ͻ^ĞŐƵŶĚŽZƵŝnjĞůǀŝƐΘd Are between 40 and 64 years old ͻ:ĂĐŽďŝDĞĚŝĐĂůĞŶƚĞƌ Live in the Bronx ͻDŽŶƚĞĮŽƌĞDĞĚŝĐĂůĞŶƚĞƌ ͻDƵůƟͲŝĂŐŶŽƐƟĐ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ/ŶĐ͘ Did You Know? ͻEŽƌƚŚĞŶƚƌĂůƌŽŶdž,ŽƐƉŝƚĂů 108 people in the Bronx are diagnosed with cancer each week ͻWƌŽũĞĐƚZĞŶĞǁĂů͕/ŶĐ͘ ͻ^ƚ͘ĂƌŶĂďĂƐ,ŽƐƉŝƚĂů Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women in New York State ͻhŶŝǀĞƌƐŝƚLJŝĂŐŶŽƐƟĐDĞĚŝĐĂů/ŵĂŐŝŶŐ͕W In 2012, an estimated 3,000 New Yorkers may have lost their Funded by a grant from the New York State Department battle against colorectal cancer of Health, Bureau of Chronic Disease Control Together we can reverse these trends. The Bronx County Cancer Services Program can provide you with free cancer screenings. For an appointment call 718-579-6453 14 • April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News Classifi eds Professional Directory COMPUTER RELIGIOUS SERVICES BEAUTY SERVICES SERVICES Come to Madame Upgrade, troubleshooting: Epiphany Lutheran Church - A PLACE OF GRACE P’s Beauty World Laptop overheats, IN NORWOOD - 3061 Bainbridge Ave., Bronx, NY The last old-fashioned hairdresser cracked screen, Phone: (718) 652-6839 Website: www.epiphanybx.org in the Bronx. broken power jack, WORSHIP Sundays at noon; BIBLE STUDY 20% off for seniors, virus removal, Wednesday nights at 7 p.m.; THRIFT SHOP Fridays and Tues., Wed., Thurs. data recovery. Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Member of the Evangelical 617 E. Fordham Road (between Ar- Call James (646) 281-4475, Lutheran Church in America - God’s work -- our hands thur and Hughes avenues) (718) 324-4332. Call today for additional services and your appointment: (347) 284-3834. TRIPS STUDIO FOR RENT Fordham Section / Bronx Niagara Falls & Toronto: May 23, Memorial Day Weekend, 2 nights/days, One occupant. 270 sq. ft. Laundry room. 24/7 security. inn and suite near the falls, $369.00 p/p. Near Subway & bus. Rent stabilized. $50 Appl. fee. Dominican Republic (Punta Cana): July 10, 8 days. Departure JFK Jet Blue. Air, $675/month. Hotel, Ocean Blue & Casino, all inclusive, double $1,589.00 p/p. Income Limits: Min: $17,143/yr. max: $36,300/yr. Disney World & Miami Beach, Florida: Aug. 15, 8 days by Modern Auto Bus. Tours and admission to Disney World & Universal Studios. Buffet breakfast Contact Melba Concepcion at (718) 367 – 1900, ext. 30. included, $889.00 p/p. Call for brochures and other trips. Kancellas Tours, (347) 405-2017 and (718) 757- 5485, (718) 832-2704. Group of 10 people discount. April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News • 15 B’N Fit Walk Set for May 2 Stagg Cuts Ribbon for Strap on those walking shoes, drink at Montefiore are major sponsors. Or- plenty of fluids and gear up for the B’N ganizers encourage families and their Fit Teen and Community Walk on friends to create a team to take a stroll Bedford Manor May 2. around the park. The group or individ- A $10 fee is all one needs to traverse ual that raises the most in donations the leafy New York Botanical Garden will receive a $100 gift card and a B’N for the morning event that goes from Fit trophy. 8:30 to 11 a.m. Each year, the borough’s Other event sponsors include the Elysium hosts hundreds of families who Summer Youth Employment Program take part in the health-conscious event, of MMCC, Montefiore Information aimed at emphasizing the importance of Technology, The Esnard Family, Leh- walking, known to strengthen one’s car- man College Susan & Bruce Schlechter, diovascular system. The hope, accord- Susan Memberg, Bronx Central Gen- ing to organizers, is to spread awareness eral Contractors, TD Bank, Welco Re- on the importance of walking to help alty, Kathy and Andrew Berkman, BJ’s ward off diseases like obesity among Wholesale Club, Crunch Gym, and Fox young people. Doctors have noted that Mountain Consulting, Inc. 30 minutes of walking for three days a Registration will remain open week makes a vast improvement of one’s through walk day. One can also reg- health. ister online at www.mmcc.org. Click The Mosholu Montefiore Commu- on the walk under events on the home nity Center and the Children’s Hospital page. Photo by Jasmine Gomez Several Bronx community and elected stakeholders gathered April 14 to cut the ribbon on the newly opened Bedford Park Manor at 2985 and 2987 Webster Ave. The site, formerly a plumbing supplies company, houses 129 units, of which 80 percent are already rented. Amenities include a spacious courtyard. The complex was developed by The Stagg Group following major rezoning by New York City in 2009, at the behest of the Four Bronx Institu- tion Alliance, comprised of Montefiore Medical Center, The New York Botanical Garden, The Bronx Zoo and Fordham University. Riverdale Neighborhood House Pool Summer Fun for Everyone! Snack Spot Now Located Near Pool Senior Deck Citizen WiFi Access Rate for All! Available! Membership Options 7 Day Week Weekday Only Weekend Only Family 2 or more children $1000 $815 $725 Family 1 child 900 735 655 Family Plus (includes sitter) 1175 900 845 Couples 775 630 560 Individuals 550 500 395 For registration info please visit our website @riverdaleonline.org or call 718-549-8100 ext. 111 Riverdale Neighborhood House, 5521 Mosholu Avenue, Bronx, NY 10471 16 • April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News April “Falls” Day Photo courtesy LiveOn NY WHAT’S AN APRIL FOOLS Day without April “Falls” Day?!? Senior citizens at the PSS (Presbyterian Senior Services) Parkside Senior Center learned a lesson in staying balanced and preventing falls at the April Falls Day wellness fair on April 1. Experts from LiveOn NY, Parkside Senior Center, and Montefi ore Medical Cen- ter were on hand to conduct balance assessments. They helped these seniors stand tall. April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News • 17 18 • April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News Out About at 10:30 a.m.: (ages 18 to 36 months), Place (near Kingsbridge Road), offers for & stories, songs, and rhymes, April 16 and kids: Pajama Party: (ages 18 months to EDITOR’S PICK 23; and Bilingual Birdies: Spanish at 3 years), to read aloud and make a craft, 11 a.m.: (ages from birth to 12 years), April 20 at 6 p.m.; and Maker Kids: (ages live music, dance parties, and theatre- 5 to 12), to make a craft from provided Run for the Wild at the Zoo based games (instruments are provided), materials, April 29 at 4 p.m. For adults, April 21 and 28. For teens/young adults, there is Crochet Family Time at 2 p.m.: The Wildlife Conservation Society presents its 7th annual 5K Run for the Wild there is So Fresh and So Clean: to make (for kids and adults), April 18 and 25; and fundraising event at the Bronx Zoo on April 25. This run and family fun run/walk deodorant and body wash and learn about Jewelry Making: to create jewelry from includes zoo access prior to public opening; free admission with registration; personal hygiene, April 24 at 3 p.m.; and glass beads (materials and tools are free post-run activities, refreshments and entertainment; and T-shirt with $30 fi lm: “The Hunger Games,” April 25 at provided), April 21 at 2 p.m. For more fundraising minimum (under age 15 receives T-shirt with registration fee). For 1:30 p.m. Adults can enjoy Jewelry Club information, call (718) 549-5200. more information and times, to register or donate, visit wcsrunforthewild.org. at 11 a.m.: bring your own materials to create original jewelry, April 16, 23 and NOTE: Items for consideration may 30; and Knitting Circle: Thursdays at 3 be mailed to our offi ce or sent to St. in Riverdale, offers Family Art Projects: Onstage p.m. For more information, call (718) 882- [email protected], and The Aquatic Dots, to make an image of 8239. should be received by April 20 for the next WH’s Aquatic Garden and create a group • The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. publication date of April 30. animation project on view through May, Kingsbridge Rd., presents Numina Dance • The Jerome Park Library, 118 Eames performing Estampas de Méjico featuring April 18 and 19; and Buds, Buds, Buds, fl amenco, April 29 at 6 p.m. For more to observe and sketch budding trees and information, call (718) 579-4244/46/57 or make one out of natural materials, April 25 visit www.nypl.org. and 26; both in WH House from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Also offered is WindSync, musical NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES • Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, quintet performing Ravel’s Bolero followed 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., presents singer by Peter and the Wolf and the Hoedown, Andy Montañez, godfather of salsa, April 19 at 2 p.m. in the WH House ($28; April 18 at 8 p.m. (tickets are $40 to $50); $15/8 to 18; $22/WH member; $12/ and Broadway Moves to the Bronx: member child; registration required online Free English Classes able, but is limited. Broadway Classics, Broadway hits, April at www.wavehill.org or at the Perkins Free English classes will be held Visitor Center). Grounds admission is free 25 at 3 p.m. (tickets are $15 to $25; $10/ at The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Free Tutoring under 12; $100 p/p includes pre-concert until noon Saturdays and Tuesdays all Kingsbridge Rd. on April 21 at noon Free tutoring in math, history, reception, preferred VIP seating, and a year. For more information and a schedule meet/greet with the artists). For more of events including tours and walks, call and 6 p.m. For more information, English and science is available for information, call (718) 960-8833. (718) 549-3200. call (718) 579-4222. students ages 12 to 21 at Sistas & Brothers United, 103 E. 196th St., 3rd Events Library Events SYEP Applications fl., Mondays to Fridays from 3 to 6 NYC’s Department of Youth and p.m. For more information, call (718) • The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. • Friends of Van Cortlandt Park presents Community Development is accept- 584-0515 ext. 243 or (347) 481-6180. its 6th annual fundraising Hike-a-Thon, Kingsbridge Rd., presents for children: April 25 at 10 a.m. at VC Park. Registration Preschool Story Time at 11 a.m.: (ages ing applications for the 2015 Sum- fee of $25 includes T-shirt, water, snacks 3 to 5 years); and Toddler Play Time at mer Youth Employment Program Free Legal Help and a tour of trails. Prizes are presented noon: (ages 18 to 36 months); both on April through April 24 for young people Free legal services are available 16, 23, and 30; and Hands-On Projects to those who raise the most money. ages 14 to 24 with up to six weeks at the office of Councilman Andy at 4 p.m. (ages 7 to 12): Umbrella Making: Registration deadline is April 22. For more of entry-level experience at work- King, 940 E. Gun Hill Rd., Fridays information, call (718) 601-1460. April 16; and Flower Making: April 30. Kids can sign up at the Children’s Information sites in the city. Participants are through June 26. Legal consulta- • The Bronx County Historical Society Desk for Spring Into Reading!: Reading selected by lottery for the program, tions include criminal, NYCHA, presents walking tour of High Bridge, club Sundays through May 31 ending with which runs from July 6 through tenant/landlord, public assistance, a celebration. Includes reading aloud, April 25 at 1 p.m. which starts and ends Aug. 15 and are compensated for wills, healthcare proxies, contract movies, puppet shows, craft workshops at the foot of the Bronx-bound staircase their work. Worksites interested in disputes, family law issues, and civil of the 167th Street #4 subway station at and more. Reading logs will be kept at the the northeast corner. This oldest bridge children’s information desk (free gift when providing jobs have until May 16 to litigations. For more information in NYC is under renovation and slated you sign up). Teens/young adults can apply. For more information, call and to schedule an appointment, call to open for pedestrian traffi c soon. It’s attend fi lm: April 24 at 5 p.m. Adults can 311 or DYCD Youth Connect at (800) (718) 684-5509. enjoy Advanced Microsoft Word 2010: an example of how an ancient system of 246-4646. April 16 at 2 p.m. (in-person registration water technology can play a major role in MMCC Pre-K Applications the expansion of a metropolis. For more required); Mark Twain: Telling Tales: information, call (718) 881-8900. literary performance with David Houston Cleanup Day The Mosholu Montefiore Com- as Mark Twain in a lecture on the nature A park cleanup of Mosholu Park- munity Center is accepting applica- • The Williamsbridge Oval offers free of comedy and wit, April 18 at 2:30 p.m.; way will take place April 25 from 10 tions for its Pre-K, Head Start and and 2nd Annual College Fair: to meet activities including Tiny Prints (ages 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. Volunteers can meet child care programs at the Van Cor- with reps from colleges and universities and younger) featuring play, yoga and at Webster Avenue and West Mo- tlandt Village Child Development art; Shape Up Family Fitness, featuring and get information on fi nancial aid and aerobics; and Family Fun Night, featuring scholarships, April 22 at 9 a.m. For more sholu Parkway South. For more in- Center, located inside the VC Jew- use of game room and arts and crafts. For information, call (718) 579-4244/46/57 or formation, call Assemblyman Mark ish Center, 3880 Sedgwick Ave. For more information and a detailed schedule, visit www.nypl.org. Gjonaj’s office at (718) 409-0109. more information, call (718) 543-0231 call (718) 543-8672. Cleanup equipment will be avail- or (718) 882-4000. The Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., Wave Hill, a Bronx oasis at 675 W. 252nd offers for children: Toddler Story Time April 16-29, 2015 • Norwood News • 19 Armory Ice Plan Remains a Go (continued from page 1) meeting two weeks ago is because a lot added that detailed information regard- our CBA. We feel this is a collaboration Partners LLC. “We come as partners of things are not transparent,” said El- ing the development of the project, in- between the Kingsbridge team and the in the community,” Messier told guests eanor Lundeen, chairwoman of CB7’s cluding the unveiling of a website, will community.” at the March 31 committee meeting. It Economic Development Committee. be released in May during Bronx Week. But Fernando Tirado, former CB 7 was the first time Messier spoke to the “There is no process that I’m aware of, For Lundeen, the timing raises ad- district manager, feels the process of public following a judge’s ruling that no date or criteria for how people get se- ditional concerns since community creating the CBA was not transpar- the $350 million ice rink plan can con- lected.” boards do not meet after June. “A lot ent enough to allow for a more diverse tinue without Jonathan Richter, Mar- A spokesman for Bronx Borough can happen in July and August,” she group of community groups to par- cus Wignell and Jeff Spiritos. The three President Ruben Diaz’s office, which said. ticipate. “I have said time and again were KNIC Partners LLC operatives of- rooted extensively to see the project get Among the new developments was that the merchants association should ten seen meeting with community lead- off the ground, said his office will not be a recent announcement by the Albany have been approached sooner than at ers to discuss the project early on. The involved in CAC procedures or have any Legislature, which committed $1 mil- the 11th hour asking them to come on legal drama resulted in nearly a year oversight of its activities. lion for an assessment of the elevated 4 board,” said Tirado, referring to the delay for the project, which kept KNIC Another issue related to the CBA is subway train abutting the Armory. Kingsbridge Road Merchants Associa- officials out of the cavernous Armory what criteria will be used to select com- Revisiting the CBA tion. pending the outcome of litigation. munity groups to occupy the 52,000- NWBCCC, KARA and other commu- Lobo of NWBCCC, which led CBA Community Advisory Council square-feet allocated to the neigh- nity stakeholder groups were key play- negotiations, said that the merchants Questions about the formation and borhood. “Until we have an advisory ers in the development of the CBA, which have always been an integral part of transparency of the 11-member Com- committee working on it, we won’t actu- stipulates benefits for Kingsbridge resi- the community benefits process and munity Advisory Council, which will ally know,” said Lundeen. dents. Among the agreement’s key pro- they continue reaching out to them for provide oversight of the CBA, remain Sandra Lobo, president of the Board visions is a $10 minimum hourly wage, input. “They are an important part of unanswered. According to the CBA, of Directors of NWBCCC, said that the 51 percent of jobs for Bronx residents our community. We want to ensure that District 14 Council Member’s Office Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment and 51 percent procurement from mi- they are being supported,” she said (currently held by Fernando Cabrera), Alliance, an arm of the NWBCCC, hopes nority/women owned businesses. Lobo added that the CBA includes the chair of Community Board 7 and to be involved with convening signato- “For the last two years we’ve done scholarships and funds to local busi- Northwest Bronx Community & Clergy ries and community groups to ensure intensive interviews with all types of nesses to support the development and Coalition (NWBCCC) will each appoint that the process of selecting groups is people from construction companies, upgrading of their businesses. This three members. KNIC will appoint one reflective of the groups most impacted construction managers, project manag- can include improvements to awnings member and there will be a member at in the area. ers, to law firms to insurance compa- and better signage. “They were cer- large. Messier said at the meeting he still nies,” said Messier. “What serves as our tainly part of the conversation in those “One of the reasons why we had the anticipates a completion date of 2018 and moral beacon for this whole project is negotiations,” she said. Mosholu Monte ore Community Center Early Childhood Education 2015-2016 School Year CONTACT INFORMATION 3450 Dekalb Ave Bronx, NY 10467 718-882-4000 www.mmcc.org AFFORDABLE! FREE! FREE! 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