Proudly Serving Bronx Communities Since 1988 • FREE lebratin e g C25 Norwood News Years Vol. 27, No. 2 n Published by Mosholu Preservation Corporation n January 23–February 5, 2014

Celebrating Martin Luther King Questions Raised Over Armory Assemblyman Found Guilty Of CBA Corruption, By DAVID CRUZ p. 3

Though the Kingsbridge Armory Community Benefits Agreement had been endorsed and approved by 26 signatories, questions have arisen over whether the signatories behind the CBA are a true representation of Bronx Youth Photo by David Greene the community. Parishioners packed the pews at Trinity Baptist Church in Edenwald celebrate the legacy It’s an inquiry Fernando Tirado Heard, of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Jan. 20. This year marks 50 years since King is leading. The former Community p. 8 convinced President Lyndon Johnson to help pass the Civil Rights Bill, pushing for better equal- Board 7 district manager went to bat ity across America. for the Kingsbridge Road Merchants (continued on page 6) CB7 Holds Line on Be Healthy By HAYLEY CAMACHO Be Healthy:

Despite rezoning along the 1.5 mile stretch of Webster Avenue as Crunch Gym a way to encourage market rate housing and new businesses, Com- munity Board 7 members remain angry over the city Department Eyeing Webster of Buildings’ lax enforcement of the new zoning laws and loopholes Ave., p. 12 that have led to widespread supportive housing ventures. In what’s become a hot topic within CB7’s borders, the members pored over the issue and possible solutions at the board’s Economic Development Committee meeting held on Jan. 8. Meetings have be- Photo by Hayley Camacho come at times contentious ever since the rezoning went into effect, Webster Avenue is ripe with plenty of construction thanks to re- amending construction laws on Webster Avenue running from East zoning, though these days Community Board 7 is tightening its grip to . on any Letter of Support to supportive housing developers. The community board for the Norwood, Kingsbridge, Bedford Park, Fordham, Mosholu and University Heights areas has played with the board’s Housing Committee over these issues. hardball mainly with the Stagg Group, a development and construc- A big obstacle in the revitalization of the Webster Avenue cor- tion company which is building sites at 2977-89 and 2997 Webster ridor are incentives provided by the Department of Housing Pres- Ave., to finally include the required first floor commercial space ervation and Development that allow developers to obtain a range after complaints to the DOB that resulted in a second review of of special loan financing and tax credits to build supportive and Stagg’s plan. low-income housing. The agency offers loans to non-profits that Board members are skeptical in how rigorous the DOB is in en- provide on-site social services that eliminate the repayment of forcing new zoning requirements for projects. “You can influence but the principal or interest as long as the borrower agrees that the you can’t mandate except for the zoning, and the zoning is being cir- property be used for low income homeless tenants for 30 years. Tree Stump cumvented,” said CB7’s Economic Development chair Ellie Lundeen. HPD also awards tax credits for housing projects that reserve These days, economic development has intertwined with hous- at least 20 percent of apartments for low-income households. Once Finally Removed, ing since new buildings must include commercial space on the first tax credits are allocated, the developer typically sells the credits to p. 11 floor, as per requirements from the new zoning laws. It’s a reason corporate investors who supply private equity to cover a portion of why CB7’s Economic Development Committee has collaborated (continued on page 7)

Picture your ad here! Advertise in the Norwood News, your local community paper. Call 718-324-4998 for rates. www.norwoodnews.org 2 n January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News In The Public Interest Liberty Dems Seek New Leaders Vol. 27, No. 2 Pichardo With Ritchie Torres ascending to the my Vacca. Norwood News is published role of Councilmember for the 15th Coun- The club’s influence has certainly in- Sworn In bi-weekly on Thursdays by cil District, the Liberty Democratic As- creased now that Torres was elected as Mosholu Preservation Corporation sociation (or Liberty Dems for short) is Councilman, beating a crowd of contend- 3400 Reservoir Oval East without a leader. The powers that be are ers with help from political ma- Bronx, 10467 now seeking a candidate to fill Torres’ chine, unions, and Torres’ own grassroots shoes following his departure, with elec- involvement in tackling housing issues. Phone: 718 324 4998 tions slated for Sunday, Jan. 26. It’s part of “He’s an honest kid and you want those Fax: 718 324 2917 the club’s belated New Year’s Party, cost- people in politics,” said McManus. “And I E-mail: [email protected] ing $10 to partake. would say we make sure that you’re repre- Web: www.norwoodnews.org Members will also fill the vacancy for sented by people who are at least halfway treasurer, a post held for several years by decent.” longtime civic activist Ray Unger, who An overall plan of incorporating new Publisher CEO, Mosholu passed away last June. members akin to Torres’ energy is still Mosholu Preservation Preservation As far as Joe McManus sees it, the role on the club’s minds with older members Corporation Corporation of the club ensures “good people are in- still outranking younger blood. McMa- Roberto S. Garcia Editor-in-Chief volved in politics and make(s) sure good nus hopes the new president would be Photo courtesy Assemblyman David Cruz people are elected.” Of course, candidates able to up the ante when it comes to re- Victor Pichardo’s Office seeking endorsements from the club must cruitment. Bronx County Civil Court Judge Classified Advertising fall on the Democratic ticket. McManus Guests will gather at Janel Towers’ Beltré-Rosado (l) administers the oath Dawn McEvoy serves as the 80th Assembly District’s community room at 801 Neill Ave. in the of office to Assemblyman Victor Pich- Accounts Receivable State Committeeman. From a grassroots neighborhood of Morris Park beginning ardo (center), now representing the Dawn McEvoy level, the club helped orchestrate a big 2 p.m. and wrapping up at 5 p.m. Neigh- 86th Assembly District, a seat once victory for the relatively inexperienced bors can RSVP to Joe McManus at (718) Proofreader held by disgraced Assemblyman Judy Noy Torres, whose credentials include serving 644-1841 or Monica Major at (917) 208-3886. Nelson Castro. Pichardo stands with as Housing Director for Councilman Jim- —DAVID CRUZ mom Luisa Duran. Production Neil deMause Regular Contributors Cuomo Backs Bronx Metro-North Plan David Greene, Adi Talwar Contributor By DAVID CRUZ hattan’s Penn Station. Hayley Camacho Locals in Co-op City, Morris Park, It’s all but a reality. Parkchester and Hunt’s Point are slated For display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. With Governor Andrew Cuomo public- to see a station in their neighborhood. ly announcing his support for more Met- The respective neighborhoods were cho- Support Your ro-North service to the Bronx in his State sen given their dense populations, with Community Newspaper! of the State address, the borough’s state Co-op City housing the largest coopera- The Norwood News is a not-for-profit pub- lawmakers are giddy on when they can tive in the city with some 50,000 residents lication and relies upon the support of its actually vote on earmarking the proposed living there. advertisers and readers to produce a quality project estimated to cost over $1 billion. Both State Legislatures have publicly community newspaper. To support your paper, They’ll get their chance this coming supported the project. In the Senate, In- become a member and receive a subscription March when the MTA’s five-year capi- dependent Democratic Conference presi- for one year. tal budget plan will be voted on by both dent, Sen. Jeff Klein, vowed to make sure houses of the State Legislature, highlight- the project passes Senate, calling the plan Simply mail check or money order for $40 ing the agency’s projects in the pipeline his “top priority.” to: Norwood News, 3400 Reservoir Oval East, and the economy are clear,” said Klein. through 2019. The Metro-North project Last spring, Klein and Borough Pres- Bronx, NY 10467. But the building of these stations is will expand service to the , iso- ident Ruben Diaz Jr. released a report contingent on whether the Long Island Norwood News is not responsible for typo- lated transit areas that often require com- detailing the economic gravy train the ex- Railroad will release track space for the graphical errors. Opinions expressed in signed muters to take a bus and subway to get to pansion would produce, with over $1 bil- impending Metro-North trains. The likeli- letters and bylined columns represent the sole work in Manhattan. Four train stations lion in benefits projected as a result of the hood of that happening is strong since the opinion of the author and are not necessarily along the borough’s east end will be built expansion. On top of property rates, the MTA is currently building the East Side those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations along the existing Hell’s Gate line, the Metro-North expansion plan would create Access construction project, which will or Montefiore Medical Center. Editorials rep- main line that takes Amtrak’s passengers 5400 jobs, according to the report. “[T]he divert LIRR trains into Grand Central, resent the views of the editor and/or publisher directly north to Boston or south to Man- benefits to local homeowners, businesses freeing up track space. only. The newspaper reserves the right to limit or refuse advertising it deems objectionable. Advertisements appearing in this paper cannot Bronx Celebrates Centennial be used without the written permission of Nor- wood News. Letters to the editor are subject For 2014, the Bronx will examine uled for February 20 at Hostos Commu- ing lit up the skyline with the Bronx’s to condensation and editing. Writers should its past, present and future with the nity College at 11a.m. In celebration of official blue and orange colors. include their ­affiliation or special interest if any. Bronx Centennial, reflecting on the 100 the centennial, the Empire State Build- —David Cruz Anonymous letters are not published but your years the Boogie Down became known name can be withheld if requested. as Bronx County. In celebration of the borough’s first 100 years, a year-round Public and Community Meetings centennial celebration will be held, with • The 52nd Precinct Community Council will meet on Thursday, Jan. 23 the first official event being the inaugu- Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Concourse House, 2751 . For more in- ration of Borough President Ruben Diaz not-profit support corporation of Montefiore formation, call (718) 220-5824. Medical Center. Jr. The event was seen as a historical nod to the first swearing in ceremony • COMMUNITY BOARD 7 committee meetings are held on the following dates at that took place when Bronx County was the board office, 229A E. 204th St., at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted: Senior formed in 1914. Plenty of politicians, Services Committee and the Public Safety & Quality of Life meet Thursday, Jan. including Mayor Bill de Blasio, were on 30. For more information, call (718) 933-5650 or visit bronxcb7.info/calendar. hand to witness Diaz Jr.’s third swearing in. The BP outlines several accomplish- • Bed ford-Mosholu Community Association meeting will take place on ments the borough has made so far, tout- Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 8 p.m. at 400 E. Mosholu Pkwy. So., apt. B1 (lobby floor). ing some major development happening All are welcome. in the borough. He’ll go more in depth at his State of the Borough Address sched- All meetings are subject to change. Call to confirm. January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News n 3 Assemblyman Eric Stevenson Found Guilty By DAVID CRUZ

Following a year-long probe, six-day trial and two hours of deliberations, As- semblyman Eric Stevenson (D-79th A.D.) was found guilty of accepting over $20,000 in bribes in exchange for drafting legisla- tion that would have benefitted owners of two senior day care centers throughout the . “As a unanimous jury swiftly found, Assemblyman Stevenson brazenly be- trayed the public that elected him,” said Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bhar- ara. “Graft and greed are intolerable in Albany, and we will go to trial as often as we have to until government in New York is cleaned up.” Indeed, political cor- ruption has been the buzz word peppered with reform lately, with Governor An- drew Cuomo intending to root out crook- ed pols through several anti-corruption initiatives he highlighted in his State of the State address. Stevenson’s downfall began after the FBI sought the help of former Assembly- man Nelson Castro, who became a legis- lator mole for the feds after running into legal troubles himself. For four years, Castro would work for the feds to gath- er information on possible corruption ingly agreed to organize several commu- File Photo within the State legislature. He found nity events to recruit senior citizens into Assemblyman Eric Stevenson (at the podium) is convicted of using his power it in Stevenson, the scion of a family of the program, promising them free meals as a lawmaker to draft legislation for money. Bronx politicians. Stevenson held the and entertainment. seat in the 79th Assembly District, rep- Senior day care centers had been pop- resenting Morrisania and East Trem- ping up all over the Bronx since many do ont, relatively poverty-stricken portions not require a license, yet receive plenty of the Bronx. of funding through Managed Long Term Stevenson was arrested by the feds for Care insurance, often funded through accepting $20,000 in bribes to help fast Medicaid. track the opening of two social adult cen- Gonzalez and Castro secretly recorded ters in the Bronx — one on Westchester the alleged conspiracy conversations. Avenue in Stevenson’s district and anoth- Stevenson remained as the 79th’s As- er at 2287 Jerome Ave. near ex-Assembly- sembly member as his case was handled man Nelson Castro’s district. by prosecutors and defense attorneys. But Throughout 2012, Stevenson met sever- following his conviction, his web page on al times with Igor Belyanksy, his brother the New York State Assembly’s website Rostislav, Igor Tsimerman, David Bin- was removed, suggesting his tenure as man, and Sigfredo Gonzalez, a minor representative is suspended. Bronx Bor- Bronx wannabe political figure and ex- ough President Ruben Diaz Jr. reacted to ecutive director of the New Age Social the verdict, calling Stevenson’s convic- Adult Center. The five conspired to pay off tion caps “an unfortunate chapter in our Stevenson, offering him cash and funds borough’s history.” in the form of a check paid by a political “As I have made crystal clear in the action committee. Stevenson had violated past, our borough and our city require Photo courtesy The Bronx Times Reporter State law by not filing the check as a cam- and deserve an honest, corruption-free What cost Assemblyman Eric Stevenson his Assembly seat? Russian businessmen paign contribution. In Stevenson’s case, government. The public must have faith talked Stevenson into securing a bill that would have put a moratorium on social adult the pol was videotaped stuffing $10,000 in its elected leaders, and the deplorable centers, giving sites like the New Age Social Center for Adults (pictured) a corner on cash into his trousers from outside Jake’s actions of Assembly Member Stevenson the market. Social centers promote freebies once featured at the defunct site (insert). Steakhouse in Riverdale early last year. should not cast a bad light on all elected For accepting the money, Stevenson officials, most of whom work hard to de- promised to introduce a bill putting a liver for their communities and solve the three-year moratorium on other social issues that face our neighborhoods,” said centers as a way to create a “local econo- Diaz Jr. my,” and allowing the underhanded busi- The borough has seen its share of po- ness owners an ad hoc monopoly over the litical scandal over the years. Just days number of senior day care centers built before the Stevenson/Castro scandal, in the Bronx. Monopolization of senior prosecutors charged the borough’s Re- centers has become apparent throughout publican Party chairman Joe Savino with the city, with many opening centers with corruption. little to no government oversight. On top Stevenson can face up to 55 years in of accepting bribes, Stevenson also will- prison once he’s sentenced. 4 n January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News

Inquiring Photographer By David Greene This week we picked readers’ brains on a new law that will expand paid sick leave to 500,000 small business workers.

They’re working, and they get I don’t think it’s good for small I believe Mayor (Bill) de Blasio It’s good if they get paid Our workers get sick and the sick, and it’s law that they will business owners because is a great man and I value his when they’re sick because owner here pays them. Yes, get paid? I think that’s abso- if I have to pay you six sick opinion. These workers are they still need to pay their it’s a very good thing. lutely wonderful. Yes, I’d like a days, I’d actually be taking important to this city and rent, pay bills and buy food. Hany Ayad law like that for the working a loss because I don’t make the country and they need to It’s a great idea. If they come people because they have to that much to begin with. So get paid if they are too sick to work sick, they will also get stay home for two or three if I have to pay my worker to work; they deserve that. I the other workers sick. days and lose their pay. $50 for the day to stay home support that completely. MD Babul Aktar Mary Leon and I’m only bringing in $100 Syed Mohammad Abbas or $150 minus the cost of the merchandise, I’d only be going home with $40 or $50 myself. So I couldn’t feed the family and I’d go bankrupt. Jose Serrano

January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News n 5 Parks Dept. Seeks Stubborn Flames Engulf Managers for VC Stables Part of Catholic H.S. By DAVID CRUZ nity-driven amenities REC offered were scant. In most cases, an undertone of elitism would Giddy-up! often be detected by neighbors after learning There’ll be a change of leadership at the REC staffers would personally drive to Man- Van Cortlandt Park Stables in the near future, hattan to pick up competitive horse riders, as the city Department of Parks vets a new disregarding the same requests from cautious concessionaire to oversee the sprawling stalls, Riverdale parents. “When I heard that, that was with the current manager primed to ride off pretty much the last straw,” said Taylor. into the sunset. The stables have been a source of enjoy- The Riverdale Equestrian Center (REC) ment for neighbors since 1982 where children manages the riding stables for now, occu- train with some of the mares, often riding pying roughly 21 acres of trails, an indoor them along the park’s bridle paths. But Com- riding arena, and a 1/4 mile exercise track. munity Board 8 chairman Robert Fanuzzi has But managers for REC decided not to renew criticized managers, believing the stables are their 10-year deal with Parks, which expires not well-operated. in 2015, following some pressure to re-focus their services to the community. Now, through New Terms a Request for Proposal released in December, Under the new deal, Parks brass wants an Parks brass took a tour of the grounds on Jan. operator that can offer riding lessons to the 8, with prospective concessionaires getting a general public while also housing a pair of glimpse of the land. Parks Police steeds at least for six months each “This has been a long time coming,” said year. They’re eyeing mostly prospective opera- Christina Taylor, president of the Friends of tors that provide after school programs, sum- Van Cortlandt Park, the park advocate group mer camps or therapeutic riding programs, that believed REC could’ve done better to cater services offered by REC. The stipulations are more to the neighborhood’s needs. “We just saw in direct response to REC’s often floundering they could’ve fulfilled a greater need for the amenities for the community that also includ- community,” said Taylor. ed the lack of trail rides for kids. Photo by David Greene Much of the group’s concerns lay in the “But the horses they use at the stables are Five firefighters suffered injuries while battling this stubborn blaze kind of clientele REC attracted, mainly serious show horses…so they didn’t want to take them at Monsignor Scanlan High School in the east Bronx on Friday, January horse riders aiming to compete in the Olym- out on the trail on the chance they would trip 17, taking several hours to knock out. The three-alarm blaze engulfed the pics and not neighbors interested in taking on their hoof, or twist an ankle because the boiler room, where the fire began just after 6 p.m. and later brought under a recreational ride around the trails. Taylor trails are honestly not in great condition,” said control in two hours. The fire is being classified as suspicious. The school remembered, “People from the community re- Taylor. “I think it would be great for people to has been a borough staple since 1949. Roughly 400 students attend. ally didn’t use the stables” since the commu- come and ride a horse at Van Cortlandt Park.”

2/28/14 2/28/14 6 n January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News Armory Questions Raised

(continued from page 1) liance, a negotiating arm for NWBCCC. Association (KRMA), the group that pro- “What we negotiated, we negotiated for motes the 269 businesses along the Kings- the community at large and not just the bridge Road commercial corridor, run- northwest Bronx. The signatories are not ning parallel to the enormous Armory. going to be receiving money or anything Tirado pressed Community Board 7’s like that.” Economic Development Committee on McIntosh disagreed that the CBA sig- Jan. 8 to use its clout to help incorporate natories offered simple padding to the KRMA into the CBA, despite the commer- document. As far as NWBCCC is con- cial group having received last-minute cerned, each entity functions separately, funding by the city Economic Develop- with groups offering community support ment Corporation to improve the strip. in different ways. “You have to look at the The CBA signatories are comprised of population or constituency that particu- representatives from churches, commu- lar organization serves,” said McIntosh. nity groups and social service nonprofits. Half of the signatories in the legally-bind- Exclusivity ing document are affiliate members of the But the move insinuates an exclusion- Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy ary preference by NWBCCC, which ulti- Coalition, the influential community group mately decided who was allowed to sign that’s been at the forefront in pushing for the CBA. Among those left out was the a community-backed project for the last Kingsbridge Heights Community Center, 18 years. They finally came to a consensus a social services community center in with the Kingsbridge National Ice Center, the neighborhood for decades. The center clearing the project that’s slated to become now borders Community District 7, hav- the world’s largest ice center with nine ing once fallen into Community District 8 rinks and a seating arena. KNIC Partners before Council lines were redrawn. LLC agreed to a host of amenities such as “Anything that has to do with any de- local hiring, 50,000 square feet of commu- cisions that affect our community I would nity space and a 1 percent revenue share, certainly want to be a signatory,” said which amounts to roughly $300,000 a year. Giselle Melendez-Susca, KHCC executive director. Reviewing the Signatories Meantime, Christian Ramos, the The NWBCCC member signatories, vice president of the Kingsbridge Road about 13 of 26, signed on representing Merchants Association, said he was ap- themselves irrespective of the longtime proached to be a signatory, though he group. Meantime, NWBCCC’s president, declined since he was offered one day to Sandra Lobo-Jost signed on behalf of review the 65-page document. The CBA NWBCCC, raising a red flag for critics has now merchant representation except who believed this to be a case of dou- for Morton Williams Supermarket own- ble-dipping, where one signatory was rep- er William Sloan. Sources allege Sloan’s resented 13 times. interest to sign was purely for selfish rea- “It’s an umbrella organization,” said Ti- sons--signing it on the assurance no big rado, referring to NWBCCC. “They count box retail chain would move into the Ar- as one signature, but in this case they’re mory, which would have potentially driv- signing names.” By including different en him out of business. signatures to the CBA, Tirado believes the “[Morton Williams] cannot represent tactic is intended to give off the appear- the small stores,” said Ramos. “He’s al- ance of broad community support, though ready big.” he dubs it a “smoke screen.” He pointed Still, whether community groups out that institutional organizations such signed it or not, the true power of the CBA as Jewish Home Life Care and the Legion- lies in its 11-member Committee Advisory naire Grey Cadets were excluded. Board, which will decide how to reinvest An analysis by the Norwood News the 1 percent revenue developers with the shows that 38 percent of the signatories Kingsbridge National Ice Center agreed to reside within Community District 7, the share with the community. Both NWBCCC district where the Armory resides. The and the legal team of the Kingsbridge Na- rest of the groups hail from other areas tional Ice Center agreed to create the com- outside the district, though preference mittee with NWBCCC, the councilmember was given to Community Board 7. Oth- in the 14th District (currently Fernando ers are found in outside areas, including Cabrera) can pick three members each. Community District 10 which has two rep- Community Board 7 will be allowed to resentatives on the CBA--the Bronx Chris- pick four while KNIC can chose one. Over- tian Fellowship Church and the Bronx all, the coalition will divide responsibility Clergy Criminal Justice Roundtable, Inc. over what to do with those funds. The organizations, however, share one ad- But Ramos is concerned the panel will dress--Gun Hill Road in Williamsbridge. have little insight in handling the needs They also fall under the same pastoral of businesses since many have no busi- leadership of Tim and Que English. ness experience. “If I need some grants Community Board 2 has representa- for the merchants, or grants for Christ- tion in the CBA through Wanda Solomon, mas lights, I don’t feel I need to go to who signed on behalf of Mothers on the KARA when that money is supposed to be Move, a Hunts Point advocacy group sent to us,” said Ramos. where she serves as executive director. But however outspoken the concerned Another signatory is Dennis Rivera, once can be, this could be a case of too little a major player for 1199 SEIU. These days, too late since the CBA is legally inde- Rivera has a home address in Puerto Rico. structible, offering future community “What would they be double dipping groups very little wiggle room. The ap- into?” asked Alice McIntosh, head of the proval now seals the community’s fate Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Al- until the year 2117. January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News n 7 Keeping Webster Avenue Revitalization on Track (continued from page 1) supportive housing, but then they don’t their community,” she said. “The commu- development costs. want to put in the commercial space on the nity board would be involved and receive There are currently five supportive first floor,” said Lundeen. “And we’re not notification for any type of development housing projects under way for low in- going to give you the letter unless you do.” that is going through the Uniform Land come seniors, homeless families and the “We are holding those Letters of Sup- Use Review Procedure or anything that’s mentally ill on Webster Avenue. This port to our chest hard and we are not giv- requesting variances from city planning,” past October, the board rejected propos- ing them out like candy,” said Jean Hill, she added. als from the Stagg Group and Doe Fund, CB7’s Housing Chair. “The Doe Fund went Cohen applauded the board’s resolve. “I a Manhattan-based nonprofit, for even away quite disturbed with us because we think at the moment it seems to be a very more supportive housing. did not give them one and Stagg also tried tough tide to stand against,” he said. “I am to whisper in other ears and we’re asking appreciative on not giving out these letters The Need for Supportive Housing other partners who are concerned about of support because I don’t think that what The Bronx has seen an overall increase the area to stand firm with us and help these people are proposing jives with what in the number of supportive housing and us hold the line,” she said in reference to the community wants to have happen on assisted living facilities over the years, the four big institutions in the area--Mon- Webster Avenue.” He also offered to sup- thanks to a federal mandate that requires tefiore Medical Center, The New York port the board’s efforts. “The zoning situ- the city to find housing for the itinerant. Botanical Garden, The Bronx Zoo, and ation is something that I can do something With the State divesting its psychiatric cen- --which support the about, but I can’t do it overnight.” ters followed by a housing crunch, the only mixed use economic development plan for One remedy discussed was for the recourse the mentally ill can take is going Webster Avenue. Land Use Committee to change the zoning into supportive housing and assisted living “If you have supportive housing and on Webster Avenue to a type of “floating sites, creating a double-edged sword. With other mixed income, you’re going to have zone” model used in upstate New York. It incentives to build along the corridor, an in- a more stable community,” said Lundeen. would involve leaving the hubs at Bedford flux of social service housing has boomed. Park Boulevard and East Gun Hill Road District 11 Councilman Andrew Co- Lack of Transparency intact and down-zoning the Webster Ave- hen attended the meeting and weighed As for the DOB, Lundeen claimed the nue corridor to limit building heights to in. “The zoning incorporates a lot of in- agency works in secret, never revealing three stories plus the commercial overlay, centives for supportive housing that are where the next building is going up on Web- with the hope that CB7 would support re- making it a land grab for a supportive ster Avenue. CB7 members and residents instating the zoning for any development housing boom here which I don’t think is serve as the eyes and ears in the community. that embraces its vision. what the vision plan envisioned,” he said. DOB spokeswoman Kelly Magee noted that The board, along with the Mosholu a link on the DOB’s website entitled Build- Preservation Corporation, is working on Holding Their Ground ing on My Block has information on new the creation of a Webster Avenue Busi- Map courtesy city Economic Development To be eligible for HPD incentives, de- construction in each community board. ness Improvement District to attract Corporation velopers need a Letter of Support from a “Formal notification is not mandated, retailers to the corridor. “If you look The city is banking on Webster Avenue’s community board’s Housing Committee, but this [the website] is a tool that allows at Fordham Road, it is very successful. Four Bronx Institutions Alliance (mapped which is followed by a vote by the full community board members and New There is very little movement of retailers out in these points) to spur development. board. “It’s to the developer’s benefit to do Yorkers to look up the developments in and few empty stores,” said Lundeen. But CB7 suspects the rezoning is backfiring. 8 n January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News

Vol. 6, No. 2 n A publication of the Bronx Youth Journalism Initiative n Winter 2013/14

The Dangers of School Co-Location sis Zavala said she specifically The move has been stopped at P.S. 1 Court- chose Hostos Lincoln Academy of landt School in District 7 in the south Science as her top high school pick Bronx. Along the northeast end of Dis- for its open campus policy on lunch. trict 11, a move to house an Icahan Char- Plus, she liked the freedom of being ter High school was denied co-location Ion the Hostos Community College cam- with two public middle schools in Pelham pus, where the school had once resided. It Parkway following community pressure. seemed like the perfect fit. The city Department of Education But the summer before she started, the reports that 58 percent of all NYC pub- school moved into the Lola Rodriguez De lic schools are co-located, though only 8 Tio building that’s nearly a mile away. Now percent of co-located schools are charter that students are co-located with three oth- schools, according to NYC Charter Center, a er schools, they say they lack space, free- nonprofit group that promotions the build- dom and extracurricular activities. They ing of charter schools throughout the city. are dissatisfied and The Bronx Bor- haven’t seen any pos- ough President’s Of- itive effects. fice supports co-loca- Grisselle Rome- tion initiatives, but Photo by Marco Paulino MARCO Co-location creates a divide, according to students at Hostos Lincoln Academy ro, 16, doesn’t like PAULINO has to deal with the having to accommo- “inequality between of Science. The school was co-located with I.S. 162, and University Prep Charter High date other students, charter schools and School, causing unwanted friction among students. many of whom are public schools in their peers on other floors. were allowed to go outside and eat lunch, much younger. “It makes me upset be- the same building,” said John DeSio, a “Some of my friends who went to my but this freedom isn’t allowed in the new cause it’s so tightly packed and you bump spokesman for Bronx Borough President middle school go to Green Dot, but we building. According to Marano, students into people,” she said. “And it’s not a good Ruben Diaz Jr. “Our office has worked to can’t talk to them and can’t go to the li- who would normally follow the rules are idea to have middle schoolers and high have charter schools partner with their brary which is in Green Dot,” said Mercy rebelling by leaving the school grounds schoolers together because of fighting.” neighbors on shared improvements to Onwuta, referring to the original name of for lunch which is now against school In the two years that Hostos Lincoln their buildings,” added DeSio. University Prep. policy. “Co-location isn’t a preference but Academy has been at its new home, the The apparent inequalities are more than The schools can be very territorial a necessity. It isn’t compromisable, it’s school has been sharing the space with inconvenient to Madeline White, a 16-year- about their small space because they are not something you design,” said Marano. I.S. 162, and University Prep Charter High old student at Hostos. “Imagine sharing a responsible for their students’ safety. “I “Co-location into a college has value, but School. Each school has its own floor, school [building] with three other schools went up to Green Dot and I was walking co-location into other schools does not.” though they share the same amenities — 500 students each, only one gym and around, but then the principal saw me Students believe that co-location, and that can include the lunchroom, gym and lunchroom. The space is not enough,” said and he started screaming,” said Veyyes the increase of it, shows that the impor- auditorium. Madeline, who plays on the Hostos basket- Sanchez, a student at Hostos. “Then [Hos- tance and value of education is not empha- ball team. “We can’t practice after school tos vice principal Vincent] Marano yelled sized in the Bronx. “I think the DOE is try- Co-Location Push Back because the gym is used by other schools.” at me. They made it a big thing.” ing to save money by putting these schools Throughout the Bronx, parents have And the limitations don’t stop there. Marano realizes that the situation isn’t together,” said Tahjai Foote, a Hostos ju- been battling co-location and winning. Students aren’t allowed to associate with ideal. In the college campus, students nior. “You can’t compromise education.” When Stop and Frisk Compromises Teen Expression n a recent Friday night din- Unfortunately, Sam isn’t the only teen as if he were a criminal and now the cops operates the online clothing store dubbed ner date with his girlfriend, who has become fashion conscious as would be on the lookout for him continu- “From the Bronx,” which sells apparel Sam Rodriguez was con- a way to avoid being among the 69 per- ously. To avoid future harassment, Essa showcasing Bronx pride. stantly irritated by his itchy cent of teens who have been stopped and gave up his baggy jeans and sweater for As a light-skinned Puerto Rican, bra. The 16-year-old Mt. Eden frisked by the police since the program skinny jeans and button up shirts. He Ramirez and his brother get stopped when Olocal reminded himself that wearing this started, according to NYPD data provided made the change voluntarily but out of they are predominantly in black neigh- undergarment was the most painful thing by NYCLU. necessity. He said he is frustrated that he borhoods. He said it was because they he’s done. The majority of teenagers being don’t blend is as much. Still, Ramirez has Sam, born Samira Rodriguez, is a stopped by the police are either black, His- stood his ground, though he maintains a transgender female who normally binds panic or members of the LGBTQ commu- friendly demeanor with officers. “It forc- his chest in a tight wrap to suppress his nity, the NYCLU reports. Now some teen- QUEDUS es me to be more diplomatic to police female traits. He learned just how itchy agers are changing the way they dress, an BABALOLA officers,” Ramirez said, adding that stop the bra can be after being stopped on his important part of teen expression, seeing and frisk and racial profiling go “hand in way home that night. He was with his it as a link between going about one’s busi- hand — they’re boyfriend and girlfriend.” girlfriend when a cop demanded he stand ness or being stopped and frisked. Under new mayor Bill de Blasio, the against the wall while he searched him. “I might as well color my face white, can’t express himself in public. policy will be under review, but that Sam’s girlfriend stood by and cried at what maybe then the cops will leave me alone,” And while teens like Sam and Essa doesn’t change the fact that some teens she was seeing — a stop and frisk encoun- said 17-year-old Essa Waggeh. Essa of succumbed to internal pressure to change say they feel reluctant to express who ter. Sam said he felt like she did something Melrose was stopped by cops in front of their appearance, Bronx resident Paul they really are. wrong — that he was wrong for being him. his group of racially-mixed friends. The Ramirez has balked at changing how he “The police should try putting them- After the incident, Sam decided he young dark skinned African-American looks even after repeated stops by police. selves into our shoes and see how it feels needed to look more female to avoid police complied with the police, but when he got “How I’m dressed shouldn’t be the basis to be harassed because of our right to harassment. home, he said he burst into tears. He felt of anything at all,” said Ramirez, who freedom of expression,” Sam said. January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News n 9 Shop and Frisk: Teens’ Perspective he eyes glare, a subtle pursuit my group of friends are going to vandal- ensues, and the idea of feeling ize the store and burn their clothes.” unwanted results. But not every teen has this problem. That’s often the experience Amar Krcic, 15, has never been fol- of a Bronx teen shopping any lowed or asked to leave a store because of Tstore, as clerks and managers cast a layer his so-called “gringo life,” or Caucasian of suspicion on teens who simply browse complexion. He explained that store own- about a store. ers view him less of a problem since he Photo courtesy of Daniel Avila / NYC Parks “Every time I go to 10 Spot with my greets them when he walk into stores. But Free computer time is available at the Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center friends, I am followed by store person- the only time Amar encounters eyes on thanks to the city Department of Parks. nel and I am given rude looks,” said Ki- him in stores is when he’s with his Paki- ana Carter, 15, about the women’s cloth- stani friend, Zaheer Babar, 15. The store ing store. “I feel pressured, nervous and owners look at them with wary faces and Williamsbridge Oval feel as though they do not trust me and follow them throughout the store. I am not supposed to be there.” When Bill of Rights Computer Lab Rocks Norwood Whether they are followed or left The Williamsbridge Oval Park Recre- their homework or any school-related alone, teen shoppers are protected under ation Center has made a comeback and work any day of the week from 3 to 7 p.m. the city Parks Department has taken it to In the few weeks since it opened, the cen- the new Customers Bill of Rights crafted by the Retail Council of New York, a state a new level by introducing a computer lab ter staff has seen the space fill up after trade group. for the community. school. “We do see a lot of interest in open The agreement, drafted in light of two The computer lab found in the second access,” said Campos, referring to teenag- JASMIN GARCIA, “Shop and Frisk” episodes at Barney’s floor of the granite building is new to the ers simply browsing the Internet without NATALIE MENDEZ and at Macy’s last year, protects shoppers recreation center, but has already become having to take a class. one of the more popular spaces. The lab One visitor, Genesis Duran, 15, a student AND SAMIYAH by emphasizing four basic rights that in- clude the right to safety, the right to be in- holds eights PCs, thanks to the Parks De- at Discovery High School, dropped off her DEFREITAS formed, the right to choose, and the right partment‘s partnership with New York little brother Luis, 13, at the lab so she could to be heard. There are also four more Public Library. The Computer Resource hit the center’s first floor fitness room. “It’s rights that are based on fairness and an Center manages the free lab, giving com- helpful because [the computer lab will] give assurance shoppers will experience a safe puter access to kids and teens so they can keep up with their schoolwork. environment. Stores that sign the document agree to But on top of being a space to work, the curb profiling, defined as “the practice of computer lab is also a place to learn. Ana ROSANNIE judging and addressing people based on Maria Campos, the director of Computer CALDERON Kiana goes to the Soundview store with their race, color, religion, sex, sexual ori- Resource Centers citywide, said Parks friends, she makes sure that they spread entation, gender identity, national origin, leans more towards “academic enrich- out and don’t stay in a dense group. And age, disability, ancestry, appearance, or ment opportunities” than having teens while Kiana changed the way she shops, any personal or physical characteristics.” log onto Facebook. “I get psyched about kids the opportunity to explore the web and 15-year-old patron Veronica Wilson, 15, Not all stores, including Toys R Us, kids learning about programming, or vid- get knowledge,” she said. has not. Veronica still walks into Hot Top- have signed the Customers Bill of Rights, eo production with a community focus,” The Recreation Center re-opened in late ic, a store normally known for its gothic but Barney’s, Macy’s Bloomingdale’s, said Campos. November after three years of construction clothing, and when employees follow her Lord & Taylor and Saks Fifth Avenue have One-day classes are taught, including by the Parks Department. The community around, she holds her ground, asking signed and have agreed to post it in their one on Internet safety, where teens learn was angry over delays related to the $5.2 “what’s up?” stores. how to protect themselves online. million project that included a total make- Unlike Veronica, Yamel Garcia, 18, has Earlier this fall, three teen reporters On a recent wintry afternoon, Tiffa- over. About $1 million was spent on the weary feelings upon entering a store. She went to Toys R Us in Bruckner Plaza and ny Pena, 15, a student at Cathedral High computer lab along with a fitness room, a says that one time she was followed by were asked to leave, offering no explana- School and a regular visitor had just left game room, a cycling room, improved lock- store personnel in American Eagle, Times tion. A representative of the store did not the lab after taking advantage of the fa- er rooms and upgraded bathrooms. Square 42nd Street. They tailed her floor respond to two requests asking about the cility, satisfied with the free perks. “The Only rec center members may use the by floor until she left the store. Yamel con- incident or its plans to sign the Shoppers computer lab is helpful to other teenagers resource lab and other facilities. Mem- cluded that her experience varies from Bill of Rights. and myself,” said Tiffany. “We can now bership prices range from $100 to $150 for borough to borough--when she is in a Regardless of how some store own- do homework there, do research, or just adults (ages 25 to 61), $25 a year for seniors Bronx store, there’s less of a chance she’ll ers profile, others are more accepting of hang out and play games.” (62 and over) and young adults (18 to 24). be followed, but in downtown Manhattan teens. “I have no problems with seeing The lab offers students a space to do Membership is free for youth under 18. she says she feels as though “they think teenagers at my store, even if there’s lots of them,” said Angel Chukui, who owns a bodega at 1946 Bathgate Ave. “Teenagers have to eat too, plus it’s good business for my store.” His store is near St. Joseph’s School and he sees teens early in morning Vol. 6, No. 2 and when school lets out. “It does, how- c/o 3400 Reservoir Oval East, Bronx, NY 10467 Phone: (718) 324-4998 Email: [email protected] ever, concern me when they’re loud and disturbing the other customers,” he said. Bronx Youth Heard is a publication of the Bronx Youth Journalism Initiative, published twice a year in the Norwood News.

Reporters: Sign Up For BYH Quedus Babalola Rosannie Calderon Samiyah Defreitas Jasmin Garcia Natalie Mendez Marco Paulino Bronx Youth Heard is looking for a Bronx Program Director: teens to join our spring semester. Please David Cruz share with your friends and with teach- ers at your school (it’s okay if you’ve Program Coordinators: Katina Paron, Kate Pastor Photo by Jasmin Garcia, Natalie Mendez, Samiyah graduated — they’d love to hear from Defreitas you!) Deadline: Wed. Jan. 29. Online ap- The Bronx Youth Journalism Initiative is a free journalism program for Bronx high Know your rights! Macy’s posts this plication: http://bit.ly/BYHspring2014 school students, run by the Norwood News with support from City Councilman Customers Bill of Rights following several Fernando Cabrera and former Councilman Joel Rivera, and in collaboration with or email [email protected] CUNY’s College Now program at Hostos Community College. publicized cases of so-called “Shop and for an application. Frisk.” 10 n January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News Musicians Homegrown at PS/MS 95 By DAVID CRUZ rehearsal time. In all, hundreds of them are being exposed to playing musical “It is really lovely to bring music into instruments, which educators have pro- this school, and win over the hearts of the moted for years, given its proven ability classes,” explains Julie Waters, a music to increase memory, boost team skills and teacher at PS/MS 95 Sheila Mencher, a K-8 improve mathematic skills. school in Kingsbridge. She looks at music At PS/MS 95, the eighth grade band as a very natural activity, an art form has been invited to play at Great Adven- paired with high standards, discipline ture, and all the music students will take and a sense of humor. part in the Spring Arts Festival, entitled The school’s foundational music pro- “Come Together,” based on the idea of gram teaches students K-5 basic skills and people coming together to help each oth- concepts such as music notation, reading er as a community. Devero has a home music, and refining one’s pitch through recording studio, composing, producing singing and playing instruments. The and recording for local artists in nearby little ones sing many songs derived from Harlem. Photo courtesy PS/MS 95 American folk, pop, and world music What does the program mean to stu- Julie Waters, elementary school music teacher for PS/MS 95, leads a class full of while the older children sing as well as dents? Fourth grader Benjamin Boateng potential Mozarts at the school. learn to study music more academically, feels that “all of us have a special talent exploring how and why music is created. in music and each of us should try. Music Students are encouraged to form their gets me into my inner self.” own sounds to make unique contribu- Graduating senior Saad Rahman talk- tions to the work of the class. ed about the hard work linked to perfect- “We know what a profound experience ing one’s musical craft. “We learn what it music has on kids,” Waters said, adding actually takes to sound good in an ensem- the art form “can save lives.” “[I]t gives ble. This allows me to create on my own children a place to belong and succeed and to think more–to do something else, and express themselves when they don’t and I have the aspiration to go on to the know how else to do it,” said Waters. “I next level.” have seen in my life that music can be the Students will showcase their musical only thing that makes students want to talents on Thursday, Feb. 13, with a per- stay in school – and go to college.” formance based on the music from The Andre Devero, music teacher for the Wizard of Oz. Teachers and families will middle school students, leads the upper gather at the school auditorium from 8:50 school program, teaching band, orchestra to 9:40 a.m., where each grade will per- Photo courtesy PS/MS 95 and keyboard basics during the day. An form their own song, giving every child On the middle school side of PS/MS 95, music instructor Andre Devero sheds insight after school program is also available, of- the experience of gracing the stage to into the power of music to these students. fering students the chance to put in extra flaunt their skills. January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News n 11 Bedford Pk. Neighbors Un-Stumped After Sandy Tree Removed

By DAVID GREENE the sidewalk for pedestrians, though it attracted rats and litterers who used the Timber! tree stump as a dumping ground. Neigh- Fifteen months of haranguing, call- bors continued to press the city for resolve ing 311 and cajoling helped clear a giant after reports of neighbors tripping to the tree stump that remained a neighborhood ground, often at night where the street is hazard in Bedford Park ever since Super- barely lit. But relief did come on Jan. 13 storm Sandy knocked out the tree that ex- when the Parks Department removed the isted beforehand. stump, later patching the hole with dirt. Resident Hector Rivera recalled the gi- But the removal of the tree has caused ant tree outside of 17 E. 198th St. dangerous- a whole new set of problems, mainly what ly tilted to the other side of the street where to do with the broken sidewalk. Neighbor it eventually came down on a house when Kajun Corporan was thrilled to see the the storm hit. A picture of the damaged stump removed, though she urged that tree can still be viewed on Google Maps. the sidewalk be fixed since “people are Rivera recalled, “The tree hit the top still tripping over the broken sidewalk.” of the home, and because of the branch- “There are a lot of old people in the area,” es, the owner of the home was trapped in- she said, pointing to the narrow sidewalk side.” The street would remain closed off abutting the hole. to traffic for several days. A request for comment from the Parks Superstorm Sandy’s raging winds Department was not immediately re- caused the tree to snap in two, with its turned. upper portion toppling onto a two-story During a conversation with a Parks home. The lower portion smashed the Department official back in October hood of a car parked along East 198th regarding the repeated telephone and Street, its roots ripping up the concrete. e-mail requests, the official stated, “If we This obstructed the roadway on East 198th received it (the request) we should have Street, diverting traffic to parallel streets. responded... we do answer e-mails, we do The FDNY was called in to chop the tree want to work with you.” down days after Sandy, with crews from Meanwhile, Parks officials have so far the city Parks Department later picking planted more than 820,000 new trees as up the pieces and carting it away. But the part of the MillionTreesNYC initiative, stump remained, leaving residents to de- while tree stumps from fallen or dead clare the work unfinished. trees remain across the borough and Months went by. The stump had stood around the city, including many along affixed to the ground, narrowly clearing both ends of .

Photo by David Greene Before: Bedford Park residents mark the one-year anniversary after fire crews re- moved this tree toppled by Superstorm Sandy’s raging winds.

Photo by David Greene A look at how hard the tree fell onto East 198th Street, tearing its roots and ripping up the concrete.

Photo by David Cruz After: The power of the people helped remove the tree, leaving behind a soiled patch. Just what to do with the rest of the damage remains to be seen.

www.norwoodnews.org 12 n January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News Be Healthy Crunch Gym Set to Open in Norwood By DAVID CRUZ their plan and were approved by the board, promotional materials circulated around In what’s considered symbolic of the the neighborhood, with some rate cards type of business Norwood looks to draw on peddling a $9.95 yearly charge. Crunch’s of- Webster Avenue, Crunch Gym is on its way ficial website also lists the Webster Avenue to opening following a yes vote from Com- location, supporting Crunch’s presumption munity Board 7’s Housing Committee. that the chain will be approved by the BSA. The snowstorm on Jan. 21 impeded the “They’ve been advertising for three or full board to vote on approving a Letter of four months,” said Sheila Sanchez, a com- Support to owners of the exercise chain. munity activist who attended the commit- As of press time, that full general board tee meeting. meeting was postponed to Jan. 28. But the With Crunch expected to open in the Housing Committee voted in favor of the coming months, the gym could pose a plans during its Jan. 15 gathering, with problem for already established exercise Rendering courtesy Crunch Gym zoning attorney Michael Nacmias offer- chains in the Bronx, including Planet A bird’s eye view of the Crunch Gym set to open on Webster Avenue near 205th ing a presentation. Fitness, which has eight gyms through- Street. The gym boasts an exercise studio, weight rooms, men’s and women’s locker Members pored over details of the gym, out the borough, outnumbering Crunch, rooms and a tanning room. which will boast a large workout area, which will open its first Bronx location in men’s and women’s locker rooms, and a Prevention has long promoted exercise, opened several Crunch gyms before, ac- Norwood. Indeed, exercise gyms have been tanning room. Overall, Crunch officials recommending 20 minutes of rigorous ex- cording to his LinkedIn page. He was un- popping up dramatically throughout the are expected to draw 4,000 to 6,000 mem- ercise three times a week or 30 minutes of available for comment. city, forcing owners to lower their prices. bers annually, taking advantage of some moderate exercise five times a week. The housing committee’s blessing is, Crunch has also represented the type other amenities, including on-site park- Speculation had indeed run rampant of course, a simple ring of endorsement of business neighbors would want to see ing. Roughly 750 members are expected to on whether Crunch would move into a since Crunch owners, though, are still along the Webster Avenue strip, rezoned visit the gym daily, which could perhaps building at 3170 Webster Ave., a relative- required to apply for a special permit to lure more businesses. The building improve the overall health makeup of the ly new glass building already housing the through the city’s Board of Standards at 3170 Webster Ave. still has space for a neighborhood. As it stands, Norwood is rel- Bronx Community Charter School on the and Appeal since the gym is considered business on the first floor, with residents atively dry from an exercise gym, an area second floor. The corridor has been at- a Physical Cultural Establishment. Nac- expecting a supermarket on the premises. whose health profile includes high rates tracting businesses since the city moved mias is hashing out details with the reg- But speculation is swirling that a medical of diabetes and obesity, according to the to rezone some 80 blocks along the corri- ulatory panel and is expected to receive a facility will open. city Department of Health and Mental Hy- dor, drawing franchisee Assaf Gal to set decision soon. If all goes well, Norwoodians can ex- giene. The Centers for Disease Control and up shop. Gal, an exercise enthusiast, has But well before Crunch officials pitched pect Crunch to open by spring. January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News n 13 Classifieds Professional Directory Beautician Services 617 E. Fordham Road (between Ar- Religious Services Law Offices thur and Hughes), Bronx, NY 10458. (Fordham University Section). Call Come to Madame P’s Beauty World Good News Christian Church James M. Visser, Esq. today for your appointment: (347) The last old-fashioned hairdresser in 3061 Bainbridge Ave. General Practice 284-3834 the Bronx. (basement of the Church of the Holy Accidents, Commercial We specialize in haircutting, hair Nativity) Wills & Estates care, and provide consultations on Pediatric Services Bronx, NY 10467 Offices Bronx and Manhattan hair care and weaving to stimulate (347) 329-0023 (646) 260-6326 hair growth. 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HELP WANTED Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and Stop living paycheck to Sunday Service at 11 a.m. Classifieds: $12 for the first 20 words paycheck. EdwardStewart. MISCELLANEOUS legalshieldassociate.com, Cash Paid: For antiques, old items, and 25 cents for each additional word. collectibles, artwork, jewelry, books, or for more information, records, coins, stamps, sports cards, contact Edward Stewart at bric-a-brac. Moving sales, estates, Professional Directory: $144 for six (877) 528-1705 or (347) contents of homes. (718) 882-0598 (home), or (347) 734-9261 (cell). months; $260 for one year. To place an 203-7152. District Manager Position: Available ad, call (718) 324-4998 between 9 a.m. at Bronx Community Board #7. Description and requirements are Notice of Public Sale Secure Self Storage will be holding and 4 p.m. Monday thru Friday. available at www.BronxCB7.info. a Public Lien Sale located at 4268 Third Send Resume to: Search Committee, Ave., Bronx, NY 10457. The sale will be Bronx Community Board #7, 229 East held on Thursday, February 6, 2014 at 10:00 A. M. The contents of the units will 204th Street, Bronx, New York 10458. be sold for cash to the highest bidder. Certain terms and conditions apply. See SERVICES manager for details. For more informa- tion, call (718) 294-1111. Computer Repair: Upgrade, Unit Number Name Items troubleshooting: Laptop overheats, 307 Miguelina Almonte, 523V Michael Seabrook, 044 Olusesan J Adeleye, 509V cracked screen, broken power jack, Cynthia Lartey, 757C Edgar Acosta, 537V virus removal, data recovery. Call Awilda Vega, 351 Davalyn Aaron, 733 James (646) 281-4475, (718) 324- Theron Hamilton, 501V Tanya Ballard, 4332. 030 Jane Olivia, 504 Orlando Cepeda, B021 Aracelis Davila, 239B Dorothy Cleaning Service: Houses, Young, 739 Jorge Burke, 618 Velvet Reed, 146 Sharmaine Parsons, 405V Perla apartments, and offices cleaned. Free Sandoval, B001 Clashema Dupree, 504V estimates. Reasonable rates. Contact Andres Rodriguez, 273 Beverly Vasquez, Mark at (718) 882-0598. 348 Richard Akoto, 526V Alcala Padilla, 413 Solomon Owusu-Ansah, 171 Jose RELIGIOUS SERVICES DeJesus, 553 Rosalyn Powell, 027 Eal- ise Turner, 179 Savy Molina, 056 Nicole Glad Tidings Assembly of God: 2 Frances, 017 Lissette Cruz, 336 Roberto Van Cortlandt Ave. E. and Jerome Agosto, 011 Carmen Serrano, 216 Nneka Onuorah. Avenue. (718) 367-4040. Prayer Advertise in the Norwood News, (718) 324-4998. 14 n January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News

$28 for seniors, $18/ages 7 to 18, and A forum on entitled “Town Hall Meeting Editor’s Pick WH members $22; $12/child; RSVP on the Affordable Care Act Health to ext. 251). Grounds admission is Education Series” will be held Monday, Free Weekend at Wave Hill free Saturdays until noon all year, and January 27 from 8:30 to 11a.m. at free all day Tuesdays in January and Montefiore Medical Center’s Moses Admission to the grounds at Wave Hill, a Bronx oasis at 675 W. 252nd St. in February. Glyndor Gallery tours take Campus at 111 East 210th Street. Riverdale, is free the weekend of Jan. 25 and 26. In addition, there will be free place Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m.; Congressman Charlie Rangel is the activities at the WH House including Family Arts Project: Hibernator’s Den, to garden walks are held Tuesdays and keynote speaker. If you’re planning to learn about hibernators, then make a mask or woodsy home, from 10 a.m. to Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 2 attend mass transit is encouraged as 1 p.m.; and Hibenators’ Pajama Pop-in Weekend, for the entire family, from 10 p.m., from the Perkins Visitor Center. public parking is limited. Montefiore a.m. to 3 p.m. On Jan. 26, there will be Interactive Performance: Tales of the For more information and a schedule of Medical Center, Healthfirst, the Hibernators, to enjoy songs, stories, and puppets, from 2 to 2:45 p.m. For more events, call (718) 549-3200. Children’s Defense Fund, the Bronx WH activities, see “Events.” For more information and a schedule of events, call Chamber of Commerce and local clergy n (718) 549-3200. The public is invited to ride the leaders are the lead sponsors. For more Feb. 5 free Bronx Culture Trolley, information contact or to RSVP, please which transports visitors on the first contact:Wendell Alexis: 718-920-7620 Onstage Events Wednesday of every month (except or [email protected] or Krystal January and September), to free Bronx Serrano: 646-512-0251or kserrano@ n Lehman College’s Center for the n Wave Hill, a Bronx oasis at 675 W. hot spots. Trolley night starts with a 5 healthfirst.org Performing Arts, 250 Bedford Pk. 252nd St. in Riverdale, offers Family p.m. reception at the Longwood Art Blvd. W., presents Grounded Aerial, Arts Project: Nature’s Music, to collect Gallery at Hostos Community College, choreography amplified into the air, twigs and leaves and create a collage 450 Grand Concourse (at 149th St.). Exhibits Jan. 25 at 8 p.m. (tickets are $25 to with natural materials and incorporating From there, the trolley departs at 5:30, $35); Hair, Feb. 2 at 6 p.m. (tickets imaginary music, then incorporate all 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Riders can get on n Poe Park Visitor Center, 2640 Grand are $25 to $45); and Haifa Symphony into a pocket-sized accordion book to and off at any scheduled stop and spend Concourse, offers free, Whimsical Orchestra of Israel, performing take home, Feb. 1 and 2; at the WH as much time as they wish at any or Winter Wonder Exhibit, through Jan. 31, classical music, Feb. 6 at 8 p.m. (tickets House from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Additional all of the featured venues. For more showcasing the works of 16 artists from are $25 to $75; $10/ages 12 and under). event includes Concert: Sonic Escape, information and a detailed schedule, call around the world, including paintings, For more information, call (718) 960- a variety of music, Feb. 2 at 2 p.m. in (718) 931-9500 ext. 33 or log on to www. photos, and sculptures, Tuesdays to 8833. the WH House (tickets are $32 and bronxarts.org. Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more January 23–February 5, 2014 n Norwood News n 15 Neighborhood Notes Free Tax Prep Apply to Your Community Ridgewood Savings Bank, 3445 Jerome Board Ave., hosts a free tax preparation day to Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz eligible filers on Sunday, Feb. 9 from 9:45 Jr. invites Bronx residents to join their a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call local community board. Applications are (718) 881-3430 or (718) 882-0440. available at your local board office or at Diaz’s Community Board office and will Marketing Workshop be accepted for all 12 Community Boards Lehman College’s Bronx Small Busi- for Bronxites who reside, work or have ness Development Center, 250 Bedford Pk. professional or other significant interests Blvd. W., hosts a marketing workshop for in the Bronx. Deadline is Feb. 7. For more business owners on Jan. 29 from 10 a.m. information, call (718) 590-3543/8977, or to 1 p.m. in Carman Hall, Room B75. For apply online at bronxboropres.nyc.gov. more information or to register, call (718) Photo courtesy Wave Hill 960-8806. Sonic Escape will present a concert Feb. 2 at Wave Hill, showcasing their music that Free GED Prep & Transition blends folk, classical, pop, bluegrass, protest songs and sea shanties into a tale of how Summer Camp Applications Programs North America’s music came to be. More info under “Events.” Pathways to Graduation offers free The Fresh Air Fund is accepting ap- GED educational services to diploma information, call (718) 365-5516. Going Places Network: Jan. 30 at 9:30 plications for its free 2014 summer camp seeking students 18 to 21, in advance of program for eligible children ages 6 to12 a.m.; Heritage Arts & Crafts, Jan. 31 at NY’s new Common Core-aligned Test As- n The NY Botanical Garden presents for the Volunteer Host Family Program, 4 p.m.; and A Performance Reading of sessing Secondary Completion (TASC), Close: A Journey in Scotland, through and ages 8 to 15 for the camping program “To Kill a Mockingbird”: Feb. 1 at 2:30 which offers educational services from in Fishkill, NY. For more information, March 16, featuring creations of 21 p.m. Children can enjoy Preschool Story the DOE’s Adult Transition Centers at call (800) 367-0003 or go online to www.fre- notable contemporary designers and age 22. Centers are located at 1010 James Time at 11 a.m.: Jan. 23 and 30; Toddler shair.org. artists working in the Scottish landscape. Play Time at noon: Jan. 23 and 30; and A Polite Ave. For more information, call For more information, call (718) 817-8700 Ship Book Making: Jan. 23. The entire (212) 374-5141. or visit nybg.org. family can attend the Burdetsky Family Coat Drive New York Cares is collecting coats Circus, Jan. 25 at 2:30 p.m. For more Photo Workshops at n Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 for the needy this winter through Feb. 7. information, call (718) 579-4244/46/57 or Grand Concourse, 2nd floor donation sites include the Office of Fordham U visit www.nypl.org. Wing, between 161st and 164th streets, the Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. at The New York Botanical/Zoological 851 Grand Concourse (room 209) from 9:30 Photographic Society holds bi-weekly presents free: Paulo Bruscky: Art is Our n The Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., a.m. to 5 p.m. Other drop-off sites include photo workshops for avid photographers Last Hope, through Feb. 9; and Tony offers for seniors and adults: Knitting the 52nd Police Precinct, 3016 Webster two times a month on Saturdays at 9:45 Feher; and Orchard Beach: The Bronx Circle: Thursdays at 3 p.m.; and Wii Ave. For more information, visit www. a.m. at the Fordham Preparatory School Riviera, both through Feb. 16. Admission Program: Tuesdays at 3 p.m. Children newyorkcares.org. (room 243) on the Fordham University is free. For more information, call (718) can enjoy Toddler Story Time at 10:30 Campus through June. For more informa- 681-6000 ext. 131. a.m.: (ages 18 to 36 months), Jan. 23 Computers at the Oval tion, call (718) 543-3115.

and 30; and Reading Aloud Story Time: Computer access is now available at n The Bronx County Historical Society’s (ages 3 to 5), Jan. 27 at 4 p.m. The entire the newly-opened Williamsbridge Oval Museum of Bronx History at the For more Neighborhood Notes family can attend Film: “Despicable Computer Resource Center, Mondays Valentine-Varian House, 3266 Bainbridge online, go to www.norwoodnews. Me 2,” Jan. 27 at 4:30 p.m. For more through Saturdays (subject to change). Ave., presents History Woven Into Cloth, Call to confirm. For more information or org and click on “Neighborhood information, call (718) 882-8239. selections from the Society’s textile a detailed schedule, call (718) 543-8672. Notes.” collection, through April 6. For more n The Jerome Park Library, 118 Eames information, call (718) 881-8900. Place (near Kingsbridge Road), offers: Pajama Party: (ages 5 to 12), Jan. 27 at Now Hiring! The Norwood News Library Events 6 p.m. For adults: Computer Basics at noon: Jan. 23, 28 and 30. For teens/young n The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. adults: Cooking: Jan. 23 at 4 p.m. For is looking for an advertising sales Kingsbridge Rd., presents programs more information, call (718) 549-5200. for adults including: Stories Within: rep to help grow the Bronx’s best Photographs by Sandra Ayala: exhibit, NOTE: Items for consideration may Jan. 25 at 1 p.m.; Computer Basics: Jan. be mailed to our office or sent to 28 at 2 p.m.; Teaching Children About [email protected], and community newspaper. Applicants Money: Raise a Financially Savvy Child: should be received by Jan. 27 for the Jan. 29 at 10 a.m.; Dress for Success’ next publication date of Feb. 6. must be outgoing self-starters with some sales experience.

If interested in joining our team, send cover letter, resume and references to us at

Photo courtesy of Lehman Center for the Performing Arts Death-defying stunts and eye-catching acrobatics like this will be in store for [email protected]. guests of Ground Aerial, a visceral aerial treat dance company led by Karen A. Fuhrman.