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ORWOODQ EWSQ NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 Vol 31, No 19 • PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION • SEPTEMBER 27-OCTOBER 10, 2018 ORWOODQ EWSQ NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 FREE INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: FULL COVERAGE: THE FEEL OF FALL | PG. 4 BRONX PRIMARY ROUNDUP | PG. 6 THE REAL ESTATE
Editorial: What to Make of Primary HUSTLEDeveloper siege onIN Bedford BEDFORD Park residents intensifi PK. es pg 3
Joker Movie Shoot in Bedford Park pg 8
A Rags-to-Riches Tale in Photo by Adi Talwar Norwood SMALL HOMES LIKE these on Perry Avenue near East Mosholu Parkway South in Bedford Park are becoming something of a rarity in the pg 10 neighborhood thanks to a continuing interest by real estate investors.
By JOSEPH KONIG based partner, Emmanuel way, East 198th Street and by limited liability corpora- “Right now, the Bronx Marshall, are part of a larger Webster Avenue--saw 28 tions, a tactic used by devel- is prime real estate. Prime, movement of investors and properties sold between Jan- opers. Over the same period prime real estate.” developers buying up Bronx uary and August of 2018, ac- in 2017, only nine properties Those are the words of Jo- homes, and tearing them cording to data provided by within that same area were seph Governali, a Norwood down to replace them with ATTOM Data Solutions and sold. resident and realty investor tall buildings, exploiting ex- analyzed by the Norwood For Bedford Park resi- who said he recently entered isting zoning laws. News. These include private dents, real estate developer into contract to purchase The section of Bedford homes, duplex, triplex, and interest is hardly new. In four homes in Bedford Park. Park--bordered by Grand quad-plex properties. Many of 2016, notorious developer Pe- pg 18 Governali and his Brooklyn- Concourse, Mosholu Park- these homes were purchased (continued on page 19) 2 • September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News
mittee, with the support of the board of directors and sharehold- Vol. 31, No. 19 ers, has made its voice heard to Vol. 27, No. 10 local legislators. The committee NorwoodVol. News 27, No.is published 10 bi-weekly on Thursdays by has taken up issues including: MosholuNorwood Preservation News Corporationis published (MPC) The disproportionate number Norwood3400 Reservoir News isOval published East bi-weeklyBronx, New on ThursdaysYork 10467 by Opinion of shelters placed in Community bi-weekly on Thursdays by MosholuPhone: Preservation 718 324 4998Corporation Board 7 and the Bronx. Mosholu Preservation Corporation 3400Fax: Reservoir 718 324 Oval2917 East Fordham Hill Owners Corp.: A Vital Influencer for E-mail: [email protected] Reservoir Oval East • Public Safety. Bronx, New York 10467 Web.:Bronx, www.norwoodnews.org New York 10467 Growth of Fordham Manor and University Heights • The beautification, mainte- nance, and safety of Devoe Park. Publisher Phone: 718 324 4998 Phone: 718 324 4998 By RACHEL MILLER-BRADSHAW • University Heights property Mosholu PreservationFax: 718 324 Corporation 2917 The bus was filled with anx- values. E-mail: [email protected]: 718 324 2917 SeniorE-mail: Director [email protected] of MPC ious Fordham Hill Owners Cor- Meantime, Assemblyman Jose Melissa Web:Cebollero www.norwoodnews.org Web: www.norwoodnews.org poration (FHOC) shareholders Rivera, who lives in Fordham Executive Director of MPC on the way to the Board of Stan- Hill, acknowledged myself, along Jennifer Tausig dards and Appeals (BSA) meet- with my fellow board members PublisherEditor-in-Chief, NorwoodCEO, News Mosholu Publisher CEO, Mosholu MosholuDavid Cruz, Preservation [email protected] 3UHVHUYDWLRQ ing set to take place that morn- Myrna Calderon and Blandon Mosholu Preservation Corporation Corporation3UHVHUYDWLRQ ing on Sept. 19, 2017. Empowering Casenave for our efforts in keep- AccountsCorporation Receivable Corporation Editor-in-ChiefDawn McEvoy Roberto S. Garcia conversations on what the cor- ing Fordham Hill a nice place to Editor-in-Chief Roberto S. Garcia DavidProofreader Cruz poration could do to advocate for Photo courtesy Rachel Miller-Bradshaw live. JudyDavid Noy Cruz improvements to uplift Univer- FORDHAM HILL OWNERS CORPORA- Because of the concerted effort TION opened in 1950. &ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJInterns sity Heights was the discussion of the CEC, our local elected offi- DawnChristy&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ McEvoy Rae Ammons, during the ride. cials have taken notice and three JonathanDawn McEvoy Custodio, Joseph Konig Fordham Hill’s Community cation. Before the chairperson board members have been recog- $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH Dawn$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH McEvoy Engagement Committee (CEC) initiated the vote she commented nized for their work in the com- Dawn McEvoy had to quickly galvanize and co- that “The board had received all munity. ProofreaderFor Display Advertising ordinate their shareholder com- of the letters from the sharehold- Two current board members JudyCallProofreader Noy Janet Geller at Judy Noy munity after learning that oil ers and local legislators. Ford- now sit on Community Board 3URGXFWLRQ(646) 581-0399 giant BP resubmitted an applica- ham Hill has made their position 7. FHOC, geographically, is on Neil3URGXFWLRQ deMause SupportNeil deMause Your tion to build a gas station at 205 very clear.” the far end of the community’s 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV W. Fordham Rd. With that being said, the vote board jurisdiction. Because of DavidCommunity5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV Greene, Adi Newspaper! Talwar In addition to getting share- commenced and it was a unani- their participation, FHOC is now TheDavid Norwood Greene, News Adi Talwar is a not-for-profit Internspublication and relies upon the support of aware of initiatives to occur in Interns holders to send in emails before mous vote to deny BP’s applica- Shaylaits advertisers Love, Paolo and readersMossetti, to Justin produce McCallum, a the Monday meeting expressing tion. the district. andqualityShayla Chelsea communityLove, George Paolo newspaper. Mossetti, Justin To support McCallum, yourand Chelseapaper, become George a member and receive a their thoughts about the gas sta- Some might say, 2017 was the Civil rights leader Coretta subscription for one year. tion, FHOC also decided to at- year FHOC, developed in 1950, Scott King said, “The greatness For display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. For display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. tend the meeting with a prepared awakened from its slumber in re- of a community is most accu- Simply mail check or money order for $40 to: SupportNorwood News, Your 3400 Reservoir Oval East, statement by its Board of Direc- gards to community engagement. rately measured by the compas- Bronx,Support NY 10467. Your tors, which the board president, It’s undeniable that Fordham Hill sionate actions of its members.” Community Newspaper! at the time Myrna Calderon, is the socioeconomic anomaly in The CEC shares this ideology. TheNorwoodCommunity Norwood News News is Newspaper! notLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE responsible for - licationtypographicalThe Norwood and relies Newserrors. uponLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE Opinions the support expressed of its - in would present along with the the neighborhood with a commu- Based on the increased support advertiserssignedlication lettersand and relies and readers uponbylined theto producecolumns support a ofrepresent quality its FHOC CEC chair opposing the nity of shareholders whose influ- from the FHOC community in communitytheadvertisers sole opinion newspaper.and readersof the authorTo to supportproduce and yourare a quality not paper, gas station for environmental ence has, is, and should continue joining in the committee’s par- necessarilycommunity newspaper.those of Mosholu To support Preservation your paper, become a member and receive a subscription and traffic reasons. to lead the charge in the socioeco- ticipation in addressing our com- Corporationbecome a member or Montefiore and receive Medical a subscription Center. forEditorials one year. represent the views of the editor The presence of the Fordham nomic uplifting and revitaliza- munity’s issues, it is clear that for one year. only. The newspaper reserves the right Hi l l commu nity was felt as t he i m- tion of the surrounding district. we are united in this belief. Simplyto limit mailor refuse check advertising or money orderit deems for $40 pressive number took their seats In the past two years, the to:objectionable.Simply Norwood mail checkNews, Advertisements or3400 money Reservoir order appearing forOval $40 East, in this paper cannot be used without in the conference room. After ac- FHOC board has increased its Rachel Miller-Bradshaw is Bronx,to: Norwood NY 10467. News, 3400 Reservoir Oval East, theBronx, written NY 10467.permission of the Norwood knowledging Fordham Hill’s at- engagement by instating a pro- chair of Fordham Hill Owners News. Letters to the editor are subject to Norwoodcondensation News and is not editing. responsible Writers for should typo- tendance, the BSA decided to vote ductive community engagement Corporation and the Community graphicalincludeNorwood their errors.News affiliation isOpinions not responsible or expressedspecial interestfor intypo signed -if first on the BP gas station appli- committee. Through this com- Engagement Committee. lettersany.graphical Anonymous and errors. bylined Opinionsletters columns are expressed representnot published inthe signed sole opinionbutletters your and of name the bylined author can columnsbe and withheld are represent not upon necessarily the sole request. thoseopinion of ofMosholu the author Preservation and are not Corporations necessarily RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHSthose of Mosholu Preservation Corporations- RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS- Public and Community Meetings resent the views of the editor and/or publisher only.resent The the newspaper views of the reserves editor and/or the right publisher to limit oronly. refuse The advertisingnewspaper it reserves deems objectionable. the right to limit COMMUNITY BOARD 7 committee meetings are held on the following dates at the board office, 229 E. 204th St., at Advertisementsor refuse advertising appearing it deems in this objectionable. paper cannot 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted: Economic Development & Long-Term Planning Committee meets on Sept. 27. For beMosholuAdvertisements used without Preservation theappearing written Corporation inpermission this paper is a of non-cannot Nor- more information, call (718) 933-5650. profit support corporation of Montefiore woodbe used News. without Letters the towritten the editor permission are subject of Nor - Medicalwood News. Center. Letters to the editor are subject to condensation and editing. Writers should The BEDFORD MOSHOLU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION meets Oct. 3 at 8 p.m. at 400 E. Mosholu Pkwy. So., Apt. to condensation and editing. Writers should LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ B1 (lobby floor). For more information, email [email protected]. 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 Sept. 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church, 2 Van Cortlandt Ave. E. For more information, call the precinct’s Community Affairs Unit at (718) 220-5824.
Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a QRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUHMosholu Preservation Corporation is a MedicalQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH Center. Medical Center. September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News • 3
invaded is Iraq. One PBS documen- orders a victim to allow her assailant tary showed a base the military back in her home. built for its soldiers there that was Also, if the only way to keep an like a mini-city, even including fast abuser away from his victim is to ,ETTERS 4O 4HE %DITOR food chains. But we’re to believe our hold him without bail, why not? I military could not enter and rebuild don’t know of any case where a bank Puerto Rico? was robbed and the only thing done On another subject, Assembly to the robber was he was hit with an Honor the Living ceremonies given to those deemed to Member Nathalia Fernandez and ac- order of protection. The editorial in your Sept. 13 - 26, deserve it, while they are still around tivist Heather Guerino make excel- If someone beats up a stranger 2018 issue encourages residents to fol- and able to enjoy the honor first hand. lent points on our courts’ inadequate on the street, that person is hit with low the example of stalwart activist Community activists deserve the same dealings with domestic violence. For arrest, not an order of protection. Mary Vallati who recently had a street type of recognition. one thing, how come there is no per- Why is it different when the victim named after her to honor her many Judy Noy formance review for judges so those has been in an intimate relationship years of service to the community af- Norwood resident who make irrational and dangerous with the attacker? ter passing away last year at the age of decisions can be removed? There’s Richard Warren 102. Protecting the Vulnerable something wrong with a judge who Van Cortlandt Village In this particular instance, as Val- City Council Member Fernando lati reached more advanced years, and Cabrera rightly compares the inad- already having served the area for so equate response to the damage by long, it would have been a grander ges- Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico with TO REPORT A STORY ture to offer to honor her work with a Katrina and New Orleans. The simi- street renaming while she could be larities include horribly incompe- present to enjoy the occasion. tent Republican presidents [George TO THE What a shame that such honors W. Bush and Donald Trump] and the are bestowed posthumously. If an in- horribly neglected residents being dividual is involved in years of public mostly people of color. NORWOOD NEWS, service, such service should be hon- The most lame excuse from T rump ored during the person’s lifetime and was that access to the island was dif- CALL US AT thereby be made to feel appreciated ficult. If Puerto Rico was a fo while he or she is still alive to revel in eign country that our government any festivities. wished to invade, our military would 718-324-4998 In the entertainment industry, there have no problem getting there. are lifetime achievement awards and One of many countries we have
EDITORIAL Takeaways from the Sept. 13 Primary
The Sept. 13 primary doesn’t vote. It puts incum- ary funding that kept non- pecially on primary night for the Bronx. But you in the Bronx is one for the bents on edge, and hands profits thriving. But money when he didn’t bother can’t overplay your hand, ages. It’s usually a tough true power to the true deci- c a n’t wash away resent ment speaking to supporters. and you can’t think that one for challengers, but in sion-maker: voters. residents, particularly in The least he could’ve done the people you see on the the year when the reckon- Klein, who led the now- the Riverdale side of the was thank the very people fringes don’t have a point. ing on establishment Dem- dissolved Independent 34th District, felt towards who stood by his side all You also can’t continue to ocrats reached its peak, no Democratic Conference, Klein. While he did bring in these years. fight newspapers such as one was safe. Not even the had spent a whopping $2.4 funds that have helped the The paper wishes Biaggi the Riverdale Press and be- state’s most powerful sena- million on media advertise- most downtrodden neigh- well as she heads into the lieve that a negative story tor, Jeff Klein, ousted as ments and consultants on borhoods in his district, it November general election. should somehow translate the Democratic representa- this election only to heav- was the mere appearance of With Bronx Democrats to the Nixonian view that tive for the 34th Senate Dis- ily lose. Money can’t always turning his back on Demo- mathematically outnum- the press is out to get him. trict by Alessandra Biaggi, buy a victory, plain and crats to caucus with Re- bering Republicans, Biag- The press is not the en- a candidate with a Demo- simple. Being part of the publicans in exchange for gi’s poised to become the emy of the people, but an es- cratic platform that trans- IDC membership became a self-seeking power that did next representative for a tate designed to hold power- lates to a complete condem- nasty mark as six out of the him in. It seems ideology large, gerrymandered dis- ful people and institutions nation against President eight IDC Democrats lost can be the sacrificial lamb trict. Our hope is she won’t accountable. This system Donald Trump. their seats across the state. for power. But the chickens cast out the Klein loyalists, of checks and balances is The people made their The Norwood News came home to roost. but embrace them and put a hallmark to our country, voices heard in a race that wrote that Klein’s loss is While the people have the kinds of divisions that and for lawmakers who’ve should be seen as an exam- a “tremendous blow” to spoken, Klein hasn’t. As give politics a black eye to taken an oath, it’s surpris- ple of what happens when the Bronx mainly because of press time, Klein has rest. ing to see barriers put in there’s a more engaged vot- Klein brought in the kind avoided the spotlight, ex- As for Klein, it’s undeni- place to keep us from doing ing bloc in a borough that of pork barrel discretion- tremely disappointing es- able he’d done some good our job. 4 • September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER By DAVID GREENE This week we asked readers if they did everything they wanted to do this summer and what they look forward to (or not) with the cooler temperatures.
I didn’t do anything this summer because Hell no. I didn’t get to go to Jones Beach, The weather was nice and I did everything I just worked. I didn’t go to the beach one Well, I’m from Hawaii, so I defi nitely like I was in court and it was a disaster. I I didn’t get to go to Smorgasbord in I wanted to do. We had a barbecue in Van day this summer, not one day. I didn’t go to the winter. It’s different for me, it’s almost couldn’t swim becaus I had too many Brooklyn yet, and I didn’t get to go to Cortlandt Park as I live in Tracey Towers Six Flags. I was supposed to takeREGEIS my wife romantic, exotic. I’m looking forward to it. things on my mind. I had no barbecue, Coney Island or City Island. Those were and I don’t want to go far. It’s better to to Six Flags. I was supposed to takeCARE her It wasCENTER very cold last year; I think this year it to the beach so many times, but after I got I had barbecue on the stove from the the main things I wanted to do. I did get stay in the neighborhood and not get into A five starwill be facility even worse. providing Chinese restaurant. I can feel it. I will stay to go to Virginia Beach, I loved that. I’m trouble. Last year the weather was quite off work I was too tired. Well, in the middle Marcell Porter here because I feel comfortable here. I will looking forward to my birthday, I’m turning severe. I’m hopingREGEIS that this year it’s a little of October I’ll take her to Fright Festexcellent at Six Kingsbridge care in the Bronx take it as it comes, I don’t think it will be 25 and getting to see the Christmas better, especially when you’re going to Flags. The snow is not a problem.and Westchester areas that cold, but seasons do change. I hope lights. Me and my new boyfriend will go to the job or going out; it’s very diffi cult with Vinny Jackson the Jets come close to [winning] this year. Rockefeller Center to ice skate. Christmas the extreme CAREweather. I’m hoping it will be CENTERBedford Park Richard Pressley lights are the best and we’ll get to see better, but it’s Mother Nature, so whatever Norwood the tree. I got a new job, so I’m making happens is God’s will. Personalized care - Skilled rehabilitation - Professional staff a lot of money this year, so I know that’s Daniel BoatengA five star facility providing coming. Oh God, I’m not excited about the Norwood commute. excellent care in the Bronx Sasha Rose Van Cortlandt Park South and Westchester areas
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T. 718-320-3700 F. 718-671-2554 www.regeiscarecenter.com September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News • 5 Has it been 30 years already? The Norwood News is Celebrating 30 Years of Bringing You Community News!
Our anniversary celebration will take on place Thursday, Nov. 1 at Lehman College’s Faculty Dining Hall in the Music Building.
The event will include a keynote address from NY1 political anchor Errol Louis, several awards, and the unveiling of our commemorative edition.
Tickets are $30! Dinner and drinks will be served!
To buy tickets, call (718) 324-4998 or visit https://bit.ly/2Nv1FPQ.
We hope you can join us for this great event as we honor our roots and the impact our paper has left on the community.
Errol Louis Keynote Speaker 6 • September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News BRONX PRIMARY: SURP RISES AND AFTERMATH By JOSEPH KONIG and DAVID CRUZ The Bronx political establishment was rocked by a political earthquake as state Sen. Jeff Klein, beleaguered by a bad year that left him in defensive mode, lost the Sept. 13 Democratic primary to Alessandra Biaggi, 32, an attorney and political newcomer. And in the last two weeks, Klein has not spoken to the public about his loss. In a night that did not go in his favor, Klein never emerged from his upstairs suite at Maestro’s Caterers in Morris Park. Supporters left disgruntled and spurned. Some shed tears. Uncertified voting results showed Klein lost 14,754 to Biaggi’s 17,618 votes. Multiple requests for comment were not responded to by the Klein camp. “I haven’t spoken to him since pri- mary morning, to be perfectly honest,” Councilman Andrew Cohen, who repre- Photo by Adi Talwar sents the 11th Council District that over- GUESTS AT THE Bronx Democratic Party’s election night party stand disappointed as they watch primary election results. laps with Klein’s district, said at a Bronx organizational meeting one week after the primary. For Biaggi, the night was a celebra- when Klein was last primaried. Turnout from CUNY law, but is not a practicing There has been “no additional com- tory one. She ousted one of the most pow- statewide this year was almost a million attorney and has never been a judge. munication” between the two candi- erful people in New York politics, a man votes higher than 2014. Crespo denied all reports and said it dates, Biaggi press secretary David accused of sexual misconduct early this On primary night, the Bronx Demo- would be “tone deaf” to nominate Klein Neustadt informed the Norwood News in year, and someone who spent more than cratic Party’s election night party was in the wake of the sexual misconduct al- an email on Sept. 24. The two did leave $2 million on his campaign. not quite as celebratory. Party chair legations against U.S. Supreme Court voicemails for each other. Biaggi ran on promises to support Marcos Crespo gave a speech calling for nominee Brett Kavanaugh. In a fiery Klein, a constant in Bronx politics and propose progressive legislation that party unity as the unofficial voting tal- speech at the judicial convention, Cre- since he was first elected to the Assem- Klein declined to support or actively lies became insurmountable. He lauded spo critics for taking onus with the judi- bly in 1994, was largely criticized for fought against. Karines Reyes, the Democratic nomi- cial nominating process. In the Bronx, leveraging party loyalty for political “[Biaggi] plans to focus on essential nee for the 87th Assembly District, who the Democrats nominate judges who al- power over the last decade. Ultimately, needs that have not been met while her fought off her primary challengers John most always run unchallenged. it was the Independent Democratic Con- opponent was in office,” Neustadt wrote Perez and Farah Despeignes. “I am proud of the approach,” Crespo ference (IDC), the breakaway faction he in a statement to the Norwood News. The “Tonight has included some happi- said. “And I am proud of the fact that we formed in 2011 to work with the Repub- campaign focused on fixing rent laws, ness and some sadness,” Reyes, flanked have these incredible leaders who I be- lican majority in the Albany Senate, pursuing criminal justice and bail re- by party members and Reyes’ family, lieve have been insulted by those who that led to his demise in a year where form, and fully funding schools. Anti- said. “We all have to band together re- are out there claiming that this process progressives dominated primaries city- IDC activists frequently connect Klein’s gardless of what our position is and re- is a sham and that the people who get wide. Six of the eight former members of empowerment of the Republican major- ally, really respond to the needs of our nominated are political hacks.” the now dissolved IDC were successfully ity and the blocking of an education bill community.” Financial Fallout primaried by progressive alternatives. that would introduce considerable fund- Judicial Convention Klein’s primary loss had immediate The primary did not go well for state- ing to the system. With Klein have not having made implications in the 34th District. wide progressives. Cynthia Nixon lost This platform appeared to appeal any official announcement of dropping Since the formation of the IDC, Klein to Governor Andrew Cuomo. Brooklyn to residents heavily in Riverdale and out of the November election, the pros- secured roughly $20 million in state City Councilman Jumaane Williams Westchester County’s town of Pelham, pect of him running on the Indepen- funds and grants for projects and orga- lost to sitting Lieutenant Governor where Biaggi won the majority of her dence ticket is open. It’s currently his nizations in his district, according to Kathy Hochul. Anti-corruption aca- support. In election districts falling only option as party officials opted not calculations made by the Norwood News demic Zephyr Teachout lost to New York in the 81st Assembly District covering to put him on the ballot for a judgeship, using news reports and press releases. City Public Advocate Letitia James in Riverdale, Kingsbridge, and Woodlawn dispelling rumors Klein would be placed One of the biggest beneficiaries from the the attorney general race. Heights, Biaggi received 7,817 votes to on the ballot. flow of state funding, the Kingsbridge Primary Night Klein’s 3,357 votes. In Pelham, Biaggi Days leading up to the annual judi- Riverdale Van Cortlandt development “We have now cut the head off the won 2,009 votes to 545 votes for Klein. cial convention, where party delegates corporation (KRVC), cancelled a major IDC snake!” Biaggi declared at her vic- Voter turnout also appeared to fa- nominate those seeking a judgeship, event in the days following Klein’s pri- tory party at the Bronx Ale House in vor Biaggi with more than 18,000 more multiple reports suggested Klein was mary loss. Kingsbridge following the results. Democrats voting in 2018 than in 2014, in the running. Klein has a law degree The annual Johnson Avenue Street September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News • 7 BRONX PRIMARY: SURP RISES AND AFTERMATH Festival, scheduled for Sept. 16, was can- thousands of dollars in state allocations celled on Sept. 14, one day after Klein’s Klein secured. Public schools in the primary defeat. The cancellation raised Bronx and Pelham were also frequent eyebrows as residents speculated the recipients of discretionary monies. cancellation was politically motivated. While Biaggi will only be a fresh- The KRVC received criticism in the past man senator, Democrats aim to retake for their close relationship with Klein, the majority in the Senate this Novem- specifically by Koppel, Klein’s 2014 pri- ber relying on the blue wave of progres- mary opponent. sivism and anti-Trump sentiments. The Initially, KRVC claimed the festival majority party controls the budget and was canceled due to lack of funding and would be able to distribute discretion- the possible impact of Hurricane Flor- ary funds and capital grants to caucus ence. In an email to residents, Klein members’ districts. was not mentioned. Then, in a follow-up “It’s impossible for Ms. Biaggi to an- email, the organization cited Klein as a swer in detail how she will deal with source of support, but without explicitly supporting nonprofits in District 34 naming his primary loss as the reason until after she wins in November and
for the cancellation. KRVC said it would Photo courtesy Biaggi Campaign Facebook Page joins the Senate and finds out what is have to preserve resources and look ALESSANDRA BIAGGI (AT MIC) celebrates her victory at Bronx Ale House in Kings- available,” Neustadt said in a statement. for new funding sources “to the tune of bridge. “This will be affected by whether or not $250,000 a year.” the Democrats win enough seats to be “We truly regret the cancellation of not know now what our future will bring programs received funding from the the majority, since historically the ma- today’s block festival and hope the com- but we look forward to hearing from and state secured by Klein in recent years. A jority party determines the distribution munity will not judge us for it,” the email receiving support from the community “Meals on Wheels” program run by the of discretionary funding.” read. “This state funding was allocated as we map that out.” Emerald Isle Immigration Center was Additional reporting by Jonathan to us by State Senator Jeff Klein… We do Dozens of other organizations and almost entirely funded by hundreds of Custodio. St. Patrick’s Home Rehabilitation & Health Care Center
“Where it all began”
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Carmelite Sisters Serving the Aged Since 1929 FACEBOOK.COM/STPATRICKSHOME Stop Work Orders Issued at 2 of 4 New Norwood Projects 8 • September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News Norwood News Petitioners Get Support for Mosholu Elevator Celebrates 30 Years Ahead of the MTA Board meeting and Mosholu Montefiore Commu- the East 149th Street/Grand Con- on Sept. 26,Petitioners pushing for the nity Center. Tracey Towers is within course station of the Nos. 2, 4, and With Nov. 1 Gala installation of an elevator at the Mo- walking distance of the station. The 5 lines. Other stations that are ex- sholu Parkway No. 4 station stood out- commercial corridor known as the Je- pected to receive an elevator under By NORWOOD NEWS side the station just over a week before rome Gun Hill Business Improvement the current capital plan include the The Norwood News is celebrating the meeting to collect signatures. The District borders the station. Bedford Park Boulevard station B/D 30 years covering Norwood and its plan is to present the signatures at the Petitioning has previously helped line and the Gun Hill Road station surrounding communities with an meeting in downtown Manhattan. sway the MTA to prioritize certain No. 2 line. anniversary night at Lehman College Jason Caraballo, a manager at stations over others. It worked for —David Cruz and we would like you to join us. Montefiore Health System’s Office of As a community-based newspaper, Community & Government Relations, the publication has striven to provide broached the subject with straphang- first-rate journalism and in-depth ers during the evening rush. Cara- coverage of the neighborhood. Our ballo teamed up with Frederic Klein, mission to inform readers has guided an employee at Assemblyman Jeff our success throughout the past three Dinowitz’s office, and Kenny Agusto decades and with your continued sup- from Sen. Jamaal Bailey’s office. port, we will do so for years to come. The petition gathering is part of an Errol Louis, political anchor for initiative to convince the MTA of an NY1 news, will keynote the event that elevator. The agency received a $200 will also feature a trip down memory million cash infusion for elevator in- lane, acknowledgements, and honors stallations in its 2015-2019 capital bud- for special guests Gary Axelbank and get. The agency hasn’t decided which Sally Dunford, along with Mosholu stations will be prioritized for an el- Montefiore Community Center. evator. The move to bring in more el- Louis, who hosts “Inside City evators falls under the Fast Forward Hall,” a nightly show with a focus Plan launched by MTA president on New York City politics, has inter- Andy Byford. The hope is to make the viewed the city’s political stalwarts stations wheelchair-accessible. and other newsworthy persons of in- Getting up to the platforms of the terest. station is quite the hike, given the As long-time host of the borough’s long three flights of stairs. flagship talk show “BronxTalk” and Mosholu Parkway serves as a nexus Photo by Jonathan Custodio creator of website thisistheBronX, for travelers visiting North Central JASON CARABALLO (L) of Montefiore Health System collects the signature of this Axelbank has been one of the most Bronx Hospital, Montefiore Health subway straphanger as part of an initiative to get an elevator at the Mosholu Parkway dedicated and influential practitio- System, DeWitt Clinton High School train station #4 line. ners of Bronx journalism. In her time as executive director of Bronx tenants advocacy group West Bronx Housing, Dunford has fought “Joker” Film Shoot Spotted in Bedford Park to protect the rights of the borough’s residents, demonstrating an admira- By DAVID CRUZ ble devotion to the community. Bedford Park Boulevard has gone The Mosholu Montefiore Commu- Hollywood, shooting the upcoming nity Center has provided program- “Joker” film! matic support for the neighborhood An Instagram Postby “fromthe- residents and children, with a strong Bronx,” crediting the entertainment emphasis on recreation, education website TMZ, shows extras at the and enrichment. Bedford Park Boulevard B/D sta- Attendees will receive a free com- tion awaiting a subway to pull in. memorative edition of the Norwood Suddenly extras flee as a purple-suit News, highlighting the publication’s clad Joker, played by Oscar-winner most influential stories over its 30 Joaquin Phoenix, who’s starring in Image courtesy TMZ.com years. the role, emerges from the subway, THE JOKER, PLAYED by Oscar nominee Joaquin Phoenix, films a scene inside the The event costs $30 (tax-deduct- walking towards the film crew. Signs Bedford Park B/D subway station. ible), which includes dinner and were apparently spotted around the drinks. Tickets can be purchased by neighborhood showing that the film- ted in character but sans makeup This isn’t the first occurrence clicking ‘Tickets’ or you can pay by ing of “Romeo” was taking place. around other shooting locations. of a Batman-related filming in the check or cash by calling (718) 324- The solo adventure on Batman’s Coincidentally, the concept of Bat- Bronx. Several times, creators from 4998. If you can’t attend, we would arch-nemesis will be released in the- man was created at Poe Park, mere the show “Gotham,” which traces the graciously accept an in-kind donation aters sometime in 2019. It’s unclear blocks from the shooting locale, early years of Batman ally Commis- to continue our mission in providing what the story is about, though there with Co-creato Bob Kane andBill sioner Jim Gordon, have been shot news coverage to the Bronx. RSVP by are indications it will trace the Jok- Finger hammering out the essence of outside Bronx Borough Hall near the Oct. 25. er’s origins as Phoenix has been spot- Batman in the 1920s. Grand Concourse. September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News • 9 Big Bands and Business Flair: JGHBID to Host Fall Festival By ARIANA CIPRIANI for a manicure, haircut, new shoes, or The Jerome Gun Hill Business Im- a bite to eat from one of the BID’s many provement District is gearing up for bodegas, bakeries, and restaurants, its 17th annual Fall Festival, slated for there is something for everyone. Saturday, Oct. 13. Join the BID for the Musical headliners from this annual event where Jerome Avenue year’s event include the Brooklyn- between Mosholu Parkway and East based group Alive n Kickin’ and lo- Gun Hill Road is closed to traffic and cal Norwood bachata group, Luis la full of people shopping, dancing, and Fama. Palladium Mambo All-Stars celebrating the fall season. will grace the stage and play hits from “The goal of the festival is twofold,” Tito Puente, Tito Rodriguez, and Celia said Jennifer Tausig, the BID’s execu- Cruz. tive director. “We want to celebrate The BID is also bringing back a the neighborhood and say thank you pumpkin patch where kids and fami- to all the loyal local shoppers as well lies can paint pumpkins for free. as attract new shoppers to the variety There will also be free art activities of quality goods and services offered from the Bronx Children’s Museum, in the Jerome Gun Hill BID. We are inflatables, and food stalls. Local mer- looking forward to another successful, chants along the avenue will be out fun festival.” displaying their goods, offering deals As most signature BID events go, to festival goers. the Fall Festival aims to draw a crowd Last year’s event drew some 5,000 in hopes of familiarizing patrons with people to shop and browse the BID’s the commercial district’s many shop- borders. ping options. The BID extends to East The event’s major sponsors in- Gun Hill Road between Jerome Av- clude Agape Luxury Transportation, enue and Webster Avenue. It is home HealthFirst, Montefiore Health Sys- to 220 businesses that include clothing tem, United Health Care, Ridgewood stores, pharmacies, fast casual eater- Savings Bank and Con Edison. ies, and general stores. “The BID provides convenient, af- Editor’s Note: The Jerome Gun Hill fordable shopping for residents and Fall Festival event is scheduled for Oct. the local workforce,” Tausig said. 13 from noon to 6 p.m. There is no rain “You can finish all your errands date. For more information, call the Je- here.” Whether you are in the market rome Gun Hill BID at (718) 324-4946.
Photo courtesy Jerome Gun Hill BID THOUSANDS ARE EXPECTED at the 17th annual Jerome Gun Hill Fall Festival. 10 • September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News A Rapidly Rising Company Settles in Norwood
By CHRISTY RAE AMMONS After 35 years working as a taxi driver, Mario Sena started his own driving company. But he never dreamed of how far it would go. Taking his understanding of the vehicle-for-hire business to work for him, Sena and his wife, Olga, operated a Non-Emergency Medical Transpor- tation (NEMT) service from a make- shift office in their apartment in Pel- ham Bay. In 2012, he only had three customers and one driver, Sena him- self. Now, Agape Luxury, Corp. books an average of 5,000 trips per day. Last year, Agape drove over one million patients to and from medical appointments, and in the last three years they have grown 688 percent.
In 2014, Agape Luxury’s gross rev- Photo by Christy Rae Ammons enue was $3.5 million, and in 2017 MARIO SENA, OWNER of Agape, at his recently opened office at 361 E. Gun Hill Rd. in Norwood. it was $28 million. According to Ink magazine, they are the 726th fastest growth that we have experienced is After moving out of Sena’s apartment, The cost of each trip is determined growing company out of 5,000 in the a true rags-to-riches story on their Agape transferred to a rented base- by distance. For those with Medicaid United States. New York City also [Sena and his wife’s] behalf,” said ment at 560 Southern Blvd. to accom- or Medicare, medical transportation ranked Agape #1 in logistics and Agape’s chief administrative officer, modate its six employees. Eventually, services are federally mandated and transportation, and in the state they Eric Arroyo. the company was able to rent the first paid through insurance, which pre- ranked #23. Because the company has quickly floor of the building, and now they vents struggling individuals from be- “That’s one of the greatest things expanded in the last several years, it are once again settling into a larger ing forced to pay out of pocket. this company has accomplished. The continues to outgrow its office space. space. They are in the process of set- “In this community we have, you tling into 361 E. Gun Hill Rd., beside know, your low to moderate income the McDonald’s on Webster Avenue. families,” Arroyo said. “The popu- Agape’s band of dispatchers deliv- lation that we’re serving is a very ers their customers to doctors’ ap- needy community with a lot of medi- Celebrate Our 40th Year! pointments, physical therapy, chemo- cal issues.” therapy sessions, and other medical Agape aims to have its custom- appointments. Lacking the ability to ers trust them, and their drivers Yearling Nursery drive or access other forms of trans- love them. “There are two things we portation can put a stop to necessary, are looking to accomplish here. Cus- preventative treatments, but Agape is tomer service, number one, and that School assuring that those needs are met. the drivers get paid well and they Once the customers provide have enough jobs,” Sena said. FREE Full Day Pre-K Agape with approval from their doc- Agape is still trying to win over tors, they are able to call on the day of critics who’ve berated the business, the appointment for a ride, or sched- causing the company to earn an over- *Free and Extended ule their trips a week in advance. all review average of 2.9 out of five Agape’s call center answers the stars with claims that some drivers Hours Available* phone and matches customers with were unprofessional to its clientele. available drivers. The company also Sena explained that about a month has wheelchair-accessible vehicles ago they were having problems with Programs for Toddlers upon request, otherwise drivers use dispatch, and that they simply grew their own cars. too fast and needed some time to catch Preschool and Pre-K Agape contracts with 900 driv- up. “We were not ready. We were not ers, who are required to pass a NYC trained completely for that, and the Taxi & Limousine Commission back- company was not ready for our vol- ground check. Approximately 20 to 30 ume,” Sena said. Now, they are more drivers are dispatched at a time, and prepared to handle the pressure. Yearlingnurseryschool.com about 600 are available daily. Sena In the future, Agape is looking claims that Agape values all drivers to expand into other boroughs and (718) 549-1606 equally. “There’s no privilege for any across the East Coast. They also plan driver here. I have two brothers that to offer rides for more than appoint- drive over here for us, and they’re ments, like to church or the grocery treated equally, like all the 900.” store. September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News • 11 12 • September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News With an Uptick in Homeless, Is Anyone Paying Attention?
By JONATHAN CUSTODIO opened this past summer, Department of Homeless Ser- With a cigarette hedged be- houses the homeless who are vices (DHS), which runs the tween his fingers, the plainly- mentally ill. A curfew is set shelter with support from clothed man spoke of hard- at 10 p.m. and only clients who community-based human ship. The man, whose name work late nights are allowed service organization Bronx- is being withheld by the Nor- to skip it. Works, there are roughly 15 wood News out of concern over “The shelter’s not ready,” social service staff and a min- any reprisals, is a resident said the inside source. “Where imum of seven security offi- at the recently opened men’s is the security? There’s no cers overseen by shift super- only homeless shelter at 3600 maintenance guys here. visors who work closely with Jerome Ave., in front of Van They’re understaffed. They the Police Department. Cortlandt Park. have four or five counselors.” “This specialized facility The 200-bed shelter, which However, according to the provides New Yorkers experi-
Photo by David Cruz THE HOMELESS SHELTER at 3600 Jerome Ave. quietly opened during the summer.
encing homelessness and men- the block so what are they do- tal health challenges with the ing with the pedophiles? Are targeted supports they need to there people on the registry?” stabilize their lives, including The shelter’s close proxim- medical and mental health ity to Bronx Dance Academy, services, expert clinical staff, a sixth-to-eighth grade school individual and group counsel- that specializes in classical ing, and connections to ad- ballet, modern dance and vi- ditional care in the commu- sual arts, was an issue with nity,” says DHS spokesperson residents prior to opening. Arianna Fishman. “Working Felix Hernandez, manager in close partnership with not- of the Family Dollar a block for-profit social service pro- away from the shelter, could vider BronxWorks, we’re con- not confirm Clarke’s story, fident that we will make this but says, “I could see it hap- the best experience it can be pening. They steal food from for these individuals as they the store and do a five-course get back on their feet.” meal. I had to kick out a couple Some residents were un- [of them] standing in front of aware of the shelter’s exis- the store.” tence. Residents were alerted “I didn’t even know they of the shelter through Com- opened up around here. First munity Board 7. time I hear about a shelter,” Onekki Clarke, a 15-year said 29-year resident Woody resident of the neighborhood, Rivera, who sees homeless at had only realized there was a night on the corner of Jerome nearby shelter when a Fam- Avenue and 213th Street and ily Dollar employee told her in Van Cortlandt Park. about a homeless man enter- There are 671 individuals ing the store’s bathroom with in homeless shelters across a roll of toilet paper. “Home- Community District 7, in addi- less has always been an is- tion to the 1,195 homeless that sue here. There’s a park and are estimated to be in the dis- [Bronx Dance Academy] down trict, according to DHS.
TO REPORT A STORY TO THE NORWOOD NEWS, CALL US AT 718-324-4998 September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News • 13 Register Now! MMCC Specialty Fall Programs for Children & Adults!
Performing Arts • Technology • Academic Enrichment • Creative Arts • Sports & Recreation • Taekwon-Do
Mosholu Day Camp • Swimming at Fordham • Child Care • Afterschool Program/Discovery Club
To REGISTER or for more Info and a FREE Brochure, CALL (718) 882-4000, ext. 0 or VISIT MMCC.ORG today!
Register online at any time, during the week or on Saturday, October 6 at MMCC. Session Dates: 10/13, 10/20, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10, 11/17, 12/1, 12/8 (Make-Up: 12/15) Building th communities Register for 4 classes & get the 5 at 50% O ! one life Register for Full Day (9am-5pm) for Selected Classes - $600 at a time - includes counselor supervision *Registration requires a one-time $20 Insurance fee for fall session per child.
Mosholu Monte ore Community Center 3450 Dekalb Avenue | Bronx, New York 10467 | 718.882.4000 | mmcc.org 14 • September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News For the Traveling Art Lover: “All Roads Lead to Fordham”
By DAVID GREENE shaped statue entitled “All Fordham Road and the impor- ating his unique urban art its on the Grand Concourse The spinning wheels inside Roads Lead to Fordham.” tance of transportation and project. The gears came from for the last decade, Bernstein a young artist’s mind and the Nicodemo was surrounded meshing that together and an antique shop, he said. added, “[Nicodemo] really wheels from vintage wagons by family members and mem- coming up with a piece that According to Daniel Bern- had a great idea for some- discovered across the Bronx, bers of the Fordham Road people can look at and give stein, deputy director of the thing that would center collided at the intersection of Business Improvement Dis- appreciation to, however they Fordham Road BID, the proj- around Fordham Road, just Fordham Road and the Grand trict (BID), at the unveiling at see fit.” ect has been kicked around generally the traffic that we Concourse, creating a unique the south side of the East Ford- Nicodemo, who spent a since 2015. “This project has get, the accessibility that work of art that will be on dis- ham Road overpass on the good deal of his childhood vis- been in the works since 2015... runs through here, and play until next spring. Grand Concourse, on Sept. 14. iting family on Conners Street, We’ve actually done a lot of that’s really what this piece Welder and artist Colin Working with the BID and scoured the Bronx’s junk- projects like this in the past,” is all about.” Nicodemo, 44, of Cold Spring, the New York City Department yards and flea markets across said Bernstein. “What we do Sponsors of the program N.Y., beamed with pride dur- of Transportation’s Art Pro- the borough to find vintage is partner with the Depart- include Dylan James Design, ing the unveiling of his 10-foot gram, Nicodemo explained, wheels of old wagons and carts ment of Transportation’s Art Councilman Ritchie Torres high hand-welded, circular “We had this concept that was and welded them together, cre- Program. What they do is kind and the Woodstock Artists
Photo by David Greene (L-R) ARTIST COLIN Nicodemo, Executive Director of the Fordham Road BID Wilma Alonso and Fordham Road BID Deputy Director Daniel Bernstein at the unveiling of a new street art project on Ford- ham Road.
of select hotspots throughout Association. The Fordham the city, where they want to Road BID is a non-profit cor- see art.” poration under contract with Bernstein continued, the City of New York to “pro- “Fordham Road wasn’t one vide supplementary services of them, but we made sure to the community,” focusing that it was, because we feel on sanitation, beautification, like it should have more art promotion and overall advo- because we’re known for just cacy for the Fordham Road clothing stores and retailers area. For more information and things like that.” on the Fordham BID, visit With the BID having par- their website at: www.Ford- ticipated in public art exhib- hamroad.nyc.
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NORWOOD NEWS 2ESERVOIR /VAL % s "RONX .9 September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News • 15
achievement in students. School Learn to ignore them. Instead, pay aged youth share that they have attention to those with encourag- increased energy when exercise ing words, loving support, and is a part of their day. They report people who believe in your goals. having more energy to pay atten- It takes time and sacrifice to make tion and take notes during the day, changes, but goals are achievable participate in class, and socialize with motivation, determination, with both their peers and teach- and patience. ers. For more information on stay- Exercise: Don’t Give Up, Keep It Up! Starting an exercise program ing motivated to exercise, go to: can be difficult, but like any good https://www.cdc.gov/physicalac- By MATTHIWS ARCENTALES cise workouts. Each type of exer- habit, it is worth it. It is important tivity/data/facts.htm. Being healthy is a group effort cise has a different purpose, yet to remember not to get discour- Matthiws Arcentales was a sum- that starts with you! Eating well is they share a common goal of help- aged. Many obstacles may rise mer intern with Montefiore Health an important part of feeling well ing an individual become health- up over time, including people System’s Office of Community & and being healthy. Another way to ier. unwilling to give their support. Population Health. improve health is to increase how Adapting good exercising hab- often you move your body, also its is one way to help prevent most known as exercising. Of course, it diseases. According to the Centers is recommended to have a conver- for Disease Control and Prevention sation with your healthcare pro- (CDC), people who are physically America’s First Pet Cemetery Established 1896 fessional to ensure you are safe to active tend to live longer and have Listed on the National Register of Historic Places 2012 Certifi ed National Wildlife Habitat begin an exercise program. lower risk for heart disease, stroke, There are different types of Type 2 Diabetes, depression, and exercises that help reach certain some cancers. Doing at least 150 Losing A Friend health goals. Cardiovascular exer- minutes a week of moderate activ- Is Never Easy cises help increase your heart rate ity can lower your risk premature to decrease body fat. Body building death. Unfortunately, many people exercises help to build muscle and who do not get regular exercise, or define your body shape. Endur- care for their health, may develop ance training helps to increase the one of these conditions. time you can exercise and build a The CDC also states that exer- Hartsdale Pet Cemetery & Crematory greater tolerance of tougher exer- cise may also improve academic 4HE 0EACEABLE +INGDOM s /NLY -INUTES FROM -IDTOWN -ANHATTAN s WWWPETCEMCOM 16 • September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News Classifi eds Professional Directory
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Come join us for a fun day at the Bedford Park Congregational Church, corner 201st Street and Bainbridge Avenue. Enjoy lunch, find bargains, take a few chances on our prize baskets and 50/50. Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Raffle drawings at 4 p.m. BARGAINS, RAFFLES, FOOD, PRIZES. FORDHAM HILL MUSIC SCHOOL Music is a valuable learning tool for your child. In the privacy of your own home or our fully equipped studio, Fordham Hill Music specializes In Guitar, Bass Guitar, Drums, and Piano Lessons. Our instructors are personable well schooled musicians who follow very practical methods to get you to start playing right away. So call us and have fun learning music !! One Hour $50.00 Half Hour $30.00
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FOLLOW US ONLINE WWW.NORWOODNEWS.ORG September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News • 17
NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES
College Fair Bird Walks SUNY Bronx Educational Oppor- Free bird walk tours with guides ALL SEASONS !# $!9 #!2% A B C DAY CARE tunity Center, 1666 Bathgate Ave., provided by the New York City .%2)%$ !6% 2/3%7//$ 34 % ND 34 hosts a free college fair on Oct. 9 from Audubon Society and Van Cortlandt "2/.8 .9 "2/.8 .9 "2/.8 .9 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors can speak Park Conservancy, are scheduled with college reps and learn about for every Saturday through Nov. 24 scholarships, financial aid and ad- from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Van Cort- mission requirements. For more in- landt Park Conservancy. Meet at the formation, call (718) 530-7017. VC Nature Center. For more infor- NOW REGISTERING mation, contact Joseph McManus at #(),$2%. "/2. ). 4(% 9%!2 s &2%% 02% + &/2 !,, Grant Campaign [email protected]. The walks (%,0 /52 #(),$2%. "%#/-% ,)&% ,%!2.%23 NYC Service and Citizens Com- are made possible through a grant mittee for New York City launched by Councilman Andrew Cohen. s !CCEPTING CHILDREN SIX WEEKS TO l VE YEARS OF AGE the 2019 “Love Your Block” grant s (OURS OF OPERATION ARE AM TO PM -ONDAY THROUGH &RIDAY campaign to support communities Personal Finance Workshop s 7E ACCEPT 6OUCHERS 5NIONS (2! AND 0RIVATE PAYMENT making local change in transform- University Neighborhood Hous- s ,ICENSED BY THE $/( AND &ULLY )NSURED ing public spaces. Resident-led ing Program is sponsoring a free volunteer groups should submit personal finance course dubbed s /UR STAFF IS #02 &IRST !IDE #ERTIl ED %0) 0EN !STHMA #ERTIl ED project proposals that address com- “Getting Ahead Financial Educa- munity concerns and highlight tion Workshop” on Sept. 27, Oct. 4 how the project will transform pub- and 11, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Concourse lic spaces. Twenty-five community House, 2751 Grand Concourse. Top- group winners will receive a $1,000 ics include wage garnishment, debt grant, project management sup- collectors, credit cards, student port, and City agency services to loans, banking products, retire- improve their neighborhood. Inter- ment, savings and more. For more ested participants can attend an in- information and to RSVP, call (718) formation session on Oct. 16 or Oct. 933-2359. 23 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Applications can be found at nyc.gov/loveyour- Prostate Exam block. For more information and to Montefiore offers prostate exam RSVP, call (212) 822-9579. Applica- to men 40 and older regardless of /0%. !,, 9%!2 2/5.$ s #!,, 4(% .5-"%23 !"/6% &/2 -/2% ).&/2-!4)/. tions are open through Nov. 7. insurance or immigration status at The Tower at Montefiore Medical Scholarship Competition Park, 1695 Eastchester Rd., Sept. 29 NYC Bronx Community Board from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more infor- 6 which covers the neighborhoods mation and to register, call (718) 405- of Bathgate, Belmont, East Trem- 8076. ont, and West Farms Square will hold a scholarship contest to sup- IDNYC Expansion port high school graduates who Children as young as age 10 can seek higher education and who now apply for an IDNYC, which have financial need. Five students grants them free one-year member- will be selected and winners will ships at museums, zoos, and the- be notified on May 1, 2019. Require- atres, along with discounts on movie ments include graduating senior tickets, entertainment options, and living in CB 6, resume, and video more. For more information on submission. For more information eligibility criteria, benefits, enroll- and detailed information, call (718) ment centers, and more, visit NYC. 579-6990. gov/IDNYC or call 311. 18 • September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News
Compiled by JUDY NOY EDITOR’S PICK Weekend Walks in Norwood East 204th Street and Bainbridge Avenue Merchants Association presents two free Weekend Walks, featuring family friendly activities.from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. along East 204th Street between Bainbridge and Decatur avenues.
Sept. 29 events include Youth Expo “Anti Bullying & File photo by Adi Talwar Literacy Programs” from noon to 4 p.m., and Oct. 6 THIS YEAR’S WEEKEND Walk, sponsored by the city Department of Transporta- tion, will have plenty of fun for the whole family (see Editor’s Pick for details). events include Octoberfest “Food, Wine & Beer Festival”
from 3 to 7 p.m. Streets will be closed to traffic. For more information, call (718) 817-8700. and New York City: A Centennial information, call (917) 640-1003. Celebration, through April 11, 2019; and Friends of Van Cortlandt Park presents His Muse: The Women of Edgar Allan Hike-toberfest, Sept 29 in VC Park. Hikes Poe’s Life, Oct. 4 through April 7, 2019. Included are huge scarecrows, pumpkins, are guided and begin at 2 p.m. Options Opening reception is free on Oct. 4 from Onstage hand-puppet show at the Pumpkin are 4- to 5-mile hike throughout the park 4:30 to 7 p.m. For more information, call Puppet Theatre, and live snakes and or a 2-mile leisurely nature or history (718) 881-8900. Lehman College for the Performing Arts, lizards. For more information, call (718) hike. Participants will receive a giveaway. 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd., W., presents Latin 817-8700. Fundraiser is from 4 to 7 p.m. Attendees Derfner Judaica Museum at Hebrew Home artist Olga Tañón, Sept. 29 at 8 p.m. will receive a souvenir mug, eat German at Riverdale, 5901 Palisade Ave., presents (tickets: $25 to $85; $100/VIP includes The Bronx Zoo presents Boo at the food and drink beer. For more information Swords Into Ploughshares, free sculpture pre-concert reception at 6:30 p.m.); and Zoo, weekends, Sept. 29 through Oct. and tickets, call (718) 430-1890. exhibit by Jay Moss, through Oct. 7, in Compañia Flamenca, Oct. 7 at 4 p.m. 28 and Columbus Day, Oct. 8. Events the Pauline and William Goldfine Pavilion (tickets: $25 to $45; $10/ages 12 and include magic shows, costume parades, Lehman College’s School of Arts & Lobby Gallery. For more information and under). For more information, call (718) professional pumpkin carving demos, Humanities, 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. to RSVP, call (718) 581-1596 or visit art@ 960-8833. crafts, and the extinct animal graveyard. W., presents Young Puerto Rican hebrewhome.org. Photo ID required for Bootoberfest returns with music, lawn Filmmakers, free, Oct. 4 at 12:30 p.m. admission. Events games, haunted pirate hayride, and more. in the Studio Theatre in the Speech ad Most activities are included in the price Theatre Building. Events include short Bronx River Art Center (BRAC), 1087 E. films, music videos and Q&A. For more Tremont Ave., presents River Rising, The Jerome Gun Hill BID presents of a general admission ticket; all activities information, call (718) 960-8556. through June 30, 2019, featuring an Community Cleanup Day, Oct. 8 from are included with the purchase of a total exposition of science, art and technology, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All ages welcome; experience ticket. For more information, Wave Hill, a Bronx oasis at 675 W. located in Starlight Park. For more cleaning supplies provided by DSNY. cost, and a full schedule, visit www. 252nd St. in Riverdale, offers Family Art information, call (718) 589-5819. Meet at Jerome Avenue and East Mosholu BronxZoo.com/boo-at-the-zoo. Projects: Tiny Terrariums, to create mini Parkway North at 10 a.m. For more terrarium in a recycled glass, add sand, information, call (718) 324-4946. The New York Botanical Garden’s Farmers Market is scheduled to be tiny rocks and natural materials, Sept. Library Events held Wednesdays through Oct. 31 from 29 and 30; and Raptors Take Flight, to The New York Botanical Garden presents Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., just inside the Mosholu make raptor puppet or windsock, Oct. Spooky Pumpkin Garden, a Halloween Rd., presents for teens/young adults: entrance and across the street from the 6 and 7, both in the WH House from 10 makeover of the Everett Children’s film: movie screening, Sept. 28 at 4 p.m. Botanical Garden station of the Metro a.m. to 1 p.m. Also scheduled is Falconry Adventure Garden, through Oct. 31. Adults can enjoy film: “One Flew Over North commuter railroad. For more Presentation: Skyhunters in Flight, live bird presentation including hawks, the Cuckoo’s Nest,” Sept. 29 at 2:30 p.m. falcons and owls, Oct. 8 at 1 p.m., on the Children can attend Arts and Crafts: grounds. Grounds admission is free until (ages 5 to 12), hands-on projects, Sept. noon Tuesdays and Saturdays all year. 30 at 3:30 p.m. (preregistration required). For more information and a schedule of For more information, call (718) 579- events including tours and walks, call (718) 4244/46/57 or visit www.nypl.org. 549-3200. Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., offers Bronx photographer Walter Pofeldt and for children: Crafty Fridays: (ages 5 to his daughter Eileen present “Kenya and 12), crafts, Sept. 28 at 3 p.m. Adults can Tanzania in Focus” through Dec. 16 at attend Knitting Circle: Thursdays at 3 Metropolitan College, 60 West St., on the p.m. For more information, call (718) 882- sixth and seventh floors, from 9 a.m. to 8239. 5 p.m. during normal business days. For more information, email pofeldtww@gmail. Jerome Park Library, 118 Eames Place com. (near Kingsbridge Road, offers for adults: Computer Basics at noon: Oct. 4 and 11. For more information, call (718) 549-5200. Exhibits NOTE: Items for consideration may The Museum of Bronx History, 3266 Photo courtesy Wave Hill be mailed to our office or sent to Bainbridge Ave. (208th Street), presents A LIVE BIRD presentation featuring an assortment of aviators will take place at [email protected], and Bronx Expo - The Starlight Park Story, should be received by Oct. 1 for the next Wave Hill (see Events for more information). through Sept. 30; Women’s Suffrage publication date of Oct. 11. September 27-October 10, 2018 • Norwood News • 19 The Real Estate Hustle in Bedford Park (continued from page 1) in selling his house, they persisted. “I Mosholu Community Association fund” called Arena Holdings LLC. ter Fine got into a prolonged legal bat- told him, ‘look, I don’t want to sell, but meeting on Sept. 5. Governali said he approached tle with tenants of a small apartment if you give me a million dollars then “He says, ‘I’m a historian,’” Santos Fine’s company, Atlantic Develop- building at 267 E. 202nd St. Eventu- I’ll sell it,’” Melendez said. “And he said. “But then he gives me his card ment Group, about a possible part- ally, a fire forced tenants out anyway told me, ‘what, you think your house and it says he’s a developer.” nership, but they wanted to build while a lawsuit was settled. is made out of gold?’” Turns out the card actually said low-income housing. Governali Lois Harr and her husband John Melendez is a Vietnam War vet- “realty investor” with Governali’s would rather build luxury apart- Reilly lived at 257 E. 202nd St., two eran, having served in the Army for name on it. Real estate investing is ments or housing for college students homes down from Fine’s property. 21 years, and retired from his po- just one aspect of Governali’s profes- at Fordham University, Lehman Col- Fine had bought up the neighboring sition at the post office nine years sional background, he said. He’s also lege, or one of the other nearby aca- houses and was planning the con- ago. He has no interest in selling his interested in shipwreck exploration, demic institutions. “There’s so many struction of a 12-story apartment home, which New York City Depart- particularly the H.M.S. Hussar, in features and history here and to take building. ment of Finance tax assessors value the East River. that and just demolish it and to put But Fine is not the only developer at $513,000. Instead, he wants to leave The properties he was interested low-income housing, it’s horrible,” interested in the area. Carlos Me- his home to his children. in purchasing on Bedford Park Bou- Governali told the Norwood News. lendez, the owner of a home at 3000 Around the corner from Melendez levard and Briggs Avenue got the He added, “If you have low-in- Perry Ave., told the Norwood News is homeowner Ella Santos, who told hard sell from Governali. come housing, then the income is he was repeatedly pestered by phone the Norwood News she receives mail- “When I approached 261 Bedford obviously low income so you’re not calls from real estate solicitors over ers two or three times a month offer- [Park Blvd.], basically what I said to going to have any kind of retail estab- the last six months. According to Me- ing cash for houses. Developers are them was, ‘how does this feel to sit on lishment that’s going to be catering lendez, the solicitors initially offered constantly spotted in the neighbor- the lottery ticket?’” Governali said. “I to those people. Why would you want him $600,000 and then $725,000. hood, approaching residents on foot. said, ‘My friend, the Bronx is prime to do something like that for? Just to “Then they told me that the It could explain why Santos was real estate and your property alone? make a dollar? That’s not right. You next-door house, they offered them wary when Governali approached her Forget about it.’” don’t do that. Go to your own neigh- 800,000,” Melendez said. “I asked why outside her home and inquired about Governali said he is in contract borhood and do that. Don’t do that don’t you offer me this money? They its history. Governali insisted he was with four homes, but could not pro- here.” told me they wanted to take both not interested in tearing her house duce any paperwork to substantiate As for Harr and Reilly, the pair houses and build a new structure down but admiring the history of the his claims. The homeowners could spent two years standing their ground here.” century old residence. Santos did not not be reached at the time of publica- before ultimately deciding living next Even after he told them to stop believe him and even recounted her tion. Governali is negotiating with to a major construction site was not calling and that he was not interested conversation with him at a Bedford the homeowners on behalf of a “hedge worth it. In May, they sold to Fine.