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orwoodn ewsn NVol. 27, No. 7 Published by Mosholu Preservation Cor pNoration April 3–16, 2014 Brightening Up MS 80 After Fire, Months-Long Rebuilding Begins Community By DAVID CRUZ Presses for Left- Turn Traffic Light, The charcoal scent still lingers along a stretch of small businesses on East Burnside Avenue just p. 3 a week and a half after a three-alarm fire damaged them. Crews have since erected a scaffold, while police from the 46th Precinct have set up a barri- cade, fencing off the property from pedestrians and any would-be squatters. Passersby assess the rubble at some stores, staring pitifully at some of Photo by Adi Talwar the establishments that have been gutted. These students add a touch of vibrant green to the vestibule at MS 80 on March Across the street is Councilman Fernando 22. The neighborhood school received a face lift courtesy of Publicolor, a nonprofit Cabrera’s office. Cabrera, of the 14th Council Dis- working in partnership with Benjamin Moore. Several dozen students decked in old trict, convened a meeting exclusively for affected clothes worked alongside some Benjamin Moore staffers for the weekend event. The merchants on March 28. They connected with color in question is eco-friendly Natura. (continued on page 6) Teacher 5-2 Vows Crackdown on ‘Pooper-trators’ Arrested in By JUSTIN MCCALLUM DeWitt HS Melee,

It’s a frequent topic for Community Board p. 5 7’s Environment and Sanitation Committee and universally disgusting--dog poop littering the streets year round. Whether along the gre- enways of and Reservoir Oval, or other bustling thoroughfares such as , the prevalence of poop has certainly raised concerns. “People not picking up behind their dog is really a problem in our district, and I really don’t see any enforcement,” an anonymous complainant told the March 18 general meet- ing. But thanks to a recent addition to the 52nd Precinct’s Community Affairs office, the Crunch Fitness issue may finally come to an end. Officially Opens, Longstanding Problem p. 9 Officer June Cortez told the members how the issue had been raised at the District Cab- inet meeting, and the Conditions Unit of the five-two, a squadron reserved for quality of life issues. “We sent out some flyers and start- ed warning some of the residents and busi- ness owners that we will start enforcing,” she Run for the Wild, said. Those caught failing to clean up after their dog face a $250 fine. p. 10 Inability to assign penalties to the so called Photo by Justin McCallum “pooper-trators” has been a large obstacle, ex- Despite signs reminding Bronxites to clean up after their four legged friends, “pooper-tra- (continued on page 7) tors” leave behind their pet’s waste across Norwood.

Picture your ad here! Advertise in the Norwood News, your local community paper. Call 718-324-4998 for rates. www.norwoodnews.org 2 n April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News In The Public Interest

Vol. 27, No. 7 Victory for FreshDirect Fresh off another win in court, Bronx with FreshDirect since the business an- financial terms involving the $130 million Norwood News is published Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. is nounced plans to move two years back. in subsidies FreshDirect received from bi-weekly on Thursdays by poised to welcome FreshDirect in its re- The group argued that the move relied the Industrial Development Corporation, Mosholu Preservation Corporation location to the Harlem River Yards in the on an old environmental impact state- which falls under the auspices of the New 3400 Reservoir Oval East South Bronx. ment that should have been revisited. The York City Economic Development Corpo- Bronx, New York 10467 “The court’s decision is a victory not suit also asked the judge to pore over the ration. —JUSTIN MCCALLUM only for FreshDirect, but for Phone: 718 324 4998 as a whole,” Diaz said during a March 27 Fax: 718 324 2917 news conference. “FreshDirect will con- BP Diaz Celebrates Women’s E-mail: [email protected] tinue to be a great asset to the Bronx.” Web: www.norwoodnews.org The BP underscored the health and History Month economic benefits of the online grocer moving into the borough, in keeping with Publisher CEO, Mosholu his greater development plans for a ‘New Mosholu Preservation Preservation Bronx.’ Among these accomplishments Corporation Corporation are 1000 new jobs, 2000 other relocated Roberto S. Garcia Editor-in-Chief positions, previously held in Queens. Of David Cruz those 1000 jobs, roughly 300 will be set aside solely for Bronxites. Classified Advertising Despite its bumpy road to the Bronx, Dawn McEvoy overcoming criticism for heavy city and Accounts Receivable state subsidies and now two court cases Dawn McEvoy questioning the site’s environmental im- Proofreader pact report, FreshDirect is now primed to Judy Noy finally begin their operations, according to Diaz’s office. Production “This decision will allow for this project Neil deMause to move forward without delay,” said Mar- Regular Contributors lene Cintron, president of the Bronx Over- David Greene, Adi Talwar all Economic Development Corporation. Interns A fleet of ‘green’ FreshDirect delivery Shayla Love, Paolo Mossetti, Justin McCallum, trucks will soon be sweeping across the Photo courtesy Office of the Bronx Borough President and Chelsea George Bronx, thanks to a deal brokered between Women were singled out for their contributions in advancing women’s empow- the company and Bronx-based Smith Elec- erment during the annual Women’s History Month Celebration at the New York For display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. tric. Since announcing its plans, FreshDi- Botanical Garden on Thursday, March 20. Those honored included Congresswom- rect has agreed to deliver everywhere in an Nydia Velazquez, Public Advocate Letitia James, and New York Support Your the Bronx, as well as accept EBT payments State Education Department Regents Member Dr. Betty Rosa. Community advo- Community Newspaper! for its groceries, carrying with them some cate Allene Roberts was honored posthumously. Live music, including a special The Norwood News is a not-for-profit pub- relief to food deserts throughout the area. performance by the Bronx Global Learning Institute for Girls was on hand. PIX11 lication and relies upon the support of its South Bronx Unite, which brought the News Reporter Lisa Mateo was the Mistress of Ceremonies. advertisers and readers to produce a quality suit before the courts, has been at odds community newspaper. To support your paper, become a member and receive a subscription for one year. In Delayed Opening of NCBH Ward, Pol Seeks Assurances Simply mail check or money order for $40 As North Central Bronx Hospital’s reversal of the original understanding. and Hospitals Corporation. But the result, to: Norwood News, 3400 Reservoir Oval East, maternity ward still awaits a re-opening, And it is disappointing.” according to hospital staffers at demon- Bronx, NY 10467. elected officials have pressed the hospital “We can agree or disagree. But it’s not strations, caused neighborhood hospitals to provide regular updates. Officials at an just about having a meeting for the pur- to be overburdened with more maternity Norwood News is not responsible for typo- evening meeting on March 18 agreed. pose of a having meeting. It’s really about calls. graphical errors. Opinions expressed in signed The suggestion put forth by Council- a meeting to have substantive– and work NCBH responded by instituting a plan letters and bylined columns represent the sole opinion of the author and are not necessarily man Ritchie Torres, whose 15th Council being done in between and that really is that brings in extra medical personnel those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations District lands within the hospital envi- my intention.” to tend to expectant mothers. The Nor- or Montefiore Medical Center. Editorials rep- rons, urged NCBH attending officials to The ward was originally set to re-open wood hospital had delivered 10 percent resent the views of the editor and/or publisher consider the move during the gathering. on April 30 following a decision by senior of Bronx babies, according to 2012 health only. The newspaper reserves the right to limit He had already secured a commitment officials to close it. An exodus of medical stats. or refuse advertising it deems objectionable. with the hospital officials during a health staffers forced the closure, shifting re- For now, the ward remains closed, with Advertisements appearing in this paper cannot committee hearing, agreeing to monthly maining doctors to nearby Jacobi Medical an extended deadline that’s supposed to be used without the written permission of Nor- meetings. But while he did get assurances Center, a trauma center part of the Health go into the summer. —DAVID CRUZ wood News. Letters to the editor are subject that NCBH would continue holding public to condensation and editing. Writers should forums, hospital brass said the gatherings include their ­affiliation or special interest if any. may happen once a month or perhaps six Anonymous letters are not published but your name can be withheld if requested. weeks. Torres said the decision “reneges” on assurances he had received during the committee hearing. “All I’m trying to do is I would like Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a to put out a calendar that everyone can not-profit support corporation of Montefiore agree to that would be regular meetings Medical Center. that will focus on particular milestones for work,” the official told Torres as he stood up questioning officials from the Public and Community Meetings city-owned hospital. “I hope that’s not • COMMUNITY BOARD 7 committee meetings are held on the following dates at shirking from what we said.” the board office, 229A E. 204th St. Public Safety & QOL meets Thursday, April 3; “I do feel it’s a change in the decision,” Environment & Sanitation and Health & Hospitals meet Tuesday, April 8; Com- Torres responded. “We didn’t say it was munity Relations & LTP and Economic Development meet on Wednesday, April dependent on milestones. You didn’t say 9; and Traffic & Transportation meets Thursday, April 10. For more information, regular meetings. We were promised call (718) 933-5650 or visit bronxcb7.info/calendar. All meetings are subject to monthly meetings and I feel like that’s a change. Call to confirm. April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News n 3 Community Presses for Left-Turn Traffic Light

Walk at your own risk. A busy intersection at Bedford Park and Webster Avenue is in need of a left-turn light, according to neighborhood groups. Photo courtesy Google Maps

By SHAYLA LOVE ity to mom and pops, other retail stores, were received and that the next step will Mosquera did not comment on whether a Metro-North and several bus stations, be an “intersection study,” following the Botanical Garden’s request would speed When Barbara Stronzcer, Bedford Mo- often causes a flurry of foot and vehicle DOT protocol. The agency’s intersection up or influence the intersection study. sholu Community Association president, traffic during the day. Stronczer said the study is a multi-step process. First, the Ultimately, all of the data collected will crosses the street at the intersection of bottleneck is caused by a new parking ga- intersection will be mapped to create a be compared to the warrants that are out- Bedford Park and Webster Avenue, she is rage at the New York Botanical Garden “Condition Diagram.” This will outline lined in the federal guidelines for traffic careful to look all ways. The busy cross- and a changed traffic pattern on Ford- the dimension of the sidewalks and any signals. These are published yearly in the road is filled with cars turning left on the ham Road and Webster Avenue, where a existing traffic controls. Then an inspec- Manual on Uniform Traffic Control De- green light and only some will stop for pe- left turn was removed following the city’s tor will manually observe the vehicles vices (MUTCD) by the Federal Highway destrians. “It’s dangerous,” she said. “The 2013 plan to decongest the area. and pedestrian traffic to create a “Field Administration (FHWA). traffic congestions is a problem. Depend- “There’s more cars from the garage,” she Observation Report.” The DOT said it’s too soon to know ing on the time of day, if you’re a pedestri- said. “And all the cars that used to make a The DOT will examine all records of the outcome of the left turn signal for an it could be very dangerous.” left at Fordham and Webster, are coming to accidents and traffic at the proposed in- Bedford Park and Webster Avenue, but in Stronzcer and Community Board 7 this intersection to turn instead.” tersection and measure traffic and car cases where turn signals are not allowed, have sent a letter to the Department of Nick Leshi, a spokesman for NYBG, said volume for four- and eight-hour periods. the DOT finds other ways to improve traf- Transportation (DOT) to request a left that NYBG supported the letters to the DOT They will measure pedestrian volume in fic conditions. For now, the results of the turn signal light at the Bedford Park in- and filed a request of their own to “enhance relation to traffic, to determine just how study are pending. tersection, to allow turning cars a cycle to traffic safety” in the neighborhood. congested the area is. The proximity of “I guess we’ll just wait and see,” said turn without traffic or interference from Nicholas Mosquera, a spokesman for school bus stops and school crossings can Stronczer. Until then, she is going to keep pedestrians. The neighborhood’s proxim- the DOT, confirmed that the requests impact their study as well. looking both ways. 4 n April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News

Inquiring Photographer By David Greene This week we asked readers their thoughts on litter in the community and whether it’s a bigger or smaller problem than it was years ago.

I think it’s improved a lot I have to think back to when It’s gradually improved and it I believe the garbage situa- Around here I think it is actually. I think that in more I was a younger person. Yes, takes time, I understand that, tion has gotten better, but cleaner, but over by East Gun places you are finding gar- I have to say that the streets but the more people that there are still some areas that Hill Road it’s not as good. But bage cans. The fact of the were cleaner. There was a move into the area, the more you go into where there’s not overall I think it’s a lot cleaner. matter is people don’t use point when the streets were trash there is. But compared a trash can around and peo- I’m coming from Brooklyn them and if you go to certain really dirty, it got really bad to before, it has improved ple just don’t care. They just and it’s crazy over there. neighborhoods you won’t see in the late 1990s. If you look because there are fewer rats throw their garbage in the Raymond Moore one for blocks and blocks. I around, there used to be and less people throwing street. The streets could be a think our recycling system garbage cans on every corner garbage on the sidewalk than lot better and I think the store can be a lot more effective. and you don’t see that any they used to. owners should come out and Andre Rivera more, just like the mailbox- Ricardo Diaz, Jr. clean in front because, ap- es and the phone booths. pearance-wise, it just makes it They’re gradually disappear- look better. ing. Michele Rodriguez Yolanda Fig

April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News n 5 Crime File Clinton HS Melee Ends With Teacher Arrested By DAVID CRUZ and CHELSEA GEORGE Though the Department of Education spared Clinton from closure, it did decide A DeWitt Clinton High School teach- to reduce its size to make way for two oth- er was arrested for allegedly fighting a er schools, and overcrowding persists. school safety officer who was attempting The large population has been a major to arrest a student. The arrest happened problem, sparking brawls that have been during a huge melee that’s become com- posted on YouTube. monplace at the school. One stretched back to 2009 when two Police arrested Jack Israel, 55, a global girls were seen pulling each other’s hair studies teacher, after he tried to prevent as bystanders egged them on. Another an officer from arresting a female student incident happened on Oct. 1, 2010 when a for fighting with another female student fight at the cafeteria ended with eight stu- on March 26. The fight, sparked for un- dents receiving summonses for disorder- known reasons, led to over 100 students ly conduct. The battle, the more notorious rushing toward the lobby of the Mosholu in recent years, inspired a Facebook page Parkway school. A large crowd of stu- called “I Survived DeWitt Clinton 10/1/10. dents formed, forcing NYPD School Safe- For the past couple of weeks, there ty Officers to race down the hall and clear have been numerous cases of violence the scene. around the school. In the classroom, caf- More students eventually jumped in, File Photo eteria or backyard, fights have been re- feeding the violent frenzy. Screams could The latest fight at DeWitt Clinton High School (pictured) resulted in a teacher ported and contained. The most recent be heard down the hall, as more students being placed under arrest for coming in between an officer arresting a student. statistics by NYPD School Safety Officers funneled into the lobby. The pandemoni- showed there to be 186 incidents with- um resulted in several students arrested “Get off my kids. These are my kids. menacing and disrupting an arrest. He’s in Clinton, 67 of which were considered and hauled into a police van, according to These are my students.” due in court on May 29. “minor altercations.” School officials try witnesses. A struggle between the officer and Israel But the trend of fighting at Clinton, an to curb violence before it happens, often According to the criminal complaint, ensued, with Israel reported to have shout- institution with a 115-year history, is not by screening students before they arrive. as officers ordered students to leave the ed, “I’m going to punch you in the face!” new. The school, which has graduated No- Magnetometers can be seen in front of the school while attempting to arrest the stu- Another officer, who assisted in Israel’s bel Prize winners and other famous alumni main entrances to the campus, slowing dent, Israel, considered by students to be apprehension, suffered minor injuries. such as comic book legend Stan Lee, holds a the process in arriving to school. a well-regarded teacher at Clinton, shout- Israel was soon arrested, facing nu- student population of over 4,000, increasing The Department of Education did not ed at cops. “This is illegal,” Israel yelled. merous charges that include assault, the likelihood of violent encounters. respond to requests for comment. No Charges Against Correction Officer in Fatal Shooting By DAVID GREENE al arrangements and stuff.” The relative ended the call by stating, “Vonde was Questions remain unanswered in the very young. He was 21 and it was sense- fatal incident between an off-duty city less what that guy did. He didn’t have to correction officer and his daughter’s do that, he didn’t.” troubled boyfriend in Wakefield. The offi- Getting in front of the story, Norman cer, though not charged, can face a grand Seabrook, the president of the Correction jury should investigators find enough evi- Officers Benevolent Association said in a dence to proceed. NY1 interview that the investigators be- The victim, Vonde Cabbagestalk, 21, lieved this was a case of self defense just was found shot in the head and declared hours after the shooting. dead at the scene on March 20 inside the An attempt was made with the city’s lobby of 739 E. 242nd St. The daytime in- medical examiner to find out what time cident happened inside the lobby of the Cabbagestalk’s body was removed, but for apartment building, involving the correc- some unknown reason they did not pro- tion officer who neighbors say could have vide such information. been preventing his daughter from see- Another stonewall came at the Bronx ing Cabbagestalk. One police source said District Attorney’s office as one spokes- a struggle ensued between the two, and woman said, “No one has been charged Cabbagestalk was shot in the head. in this case yet and unless someone’s One neighbor, who asked to remain charged, we won’t have any information.” Photo by David Greene anonymous, said Cabbagestalk frequent- Apparently, when it’s “officer-involved,” Investigators gather outside 739 E. 242nd St., the scene of a shooting involving ly stalked the house despite an order of information relating to the incident is an off-duty correction officer and his daughter’s boyfriend. protection against him. Police also noted sealed pending a decision on whether the victim was a known trespasser and charges will be filed. fare beater. An official at the Department of Cor- commander of several correction offi- was known to have a history of mental ill- Officers haven’t charged the unidenti- rections stated that he had thought that cers at Riker’s Island, was charged with ness. Pendergrass is awaiting trial. fied cop in the shooting, who claimed he no charges would be filed against the of- violating the civil rights of a mentally ill In another incident, correction officers was acting in self-defense. ficer, but vowed to look into it. Seabrook inmate who sought help after swallow- at Riker’s Island were questioned in the When reached by telephone, a family was not immediately available for com- ing a soap ball. In a criminal complaint, death of Jerome Murdough, a mentally member of Cabbagestalk, who did not ment on this day. Pedergrass is alleged to have deliberately troubled homeless veteran, who died from want to identify herself stated, “We’re in The latest incident adds to an already ignored the pleas of the prisoner, Jason extreme heat exposure while inside a jail the process of finding out what went on. troubling month for correction officers. Echevarria of the Bronx, who eventually cell. The officer who failed to check on the I’m actually on the way out to do funer- In late March, Terrence Pendergrass, a died after ingesting the soap. The inmate inmate was suspended for 20 days.

www.norwoodnews.org 6 n April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News After Fire, Months-Long Rebuilding Begins (continued from page 1) meeting, Katz had a brief exchange with several city agencies just as a sobering Bill White, a representative from Con Ed- thought set in--merchants will have to wait ison. Service restoration has been a slow for months before feeling a sense of nor- process, despite Katz having cleared some malcy. hurdles mandated by Con Edison. “What I’m trying to do is try and expe- Raging Fire dite this because there’s two businesses The fire touched off at the corner of East that really were not affected by the fire Burnside and Walton avenues on Sunday and they just need their electric service morning, March 23. The line of stores, com- turned on. And again the Department of prised of a 99 cent, cell phone, meat market, Buildings inspected this and really it’s farmers market, Radio Shack, Amalgamat- simply just turning on that electrical ser- ed Bank, and furniture business suffered vice,” said Katz. thousands of dollars in damage. The Ra- But in bureaucratic fashion, White dio Shack, and Burnside Furniture were told Katz to “call me on Monday” to see spared, though they experienced several whether the utility’s Energy Services days of outages. The Amalgamated Bank Department can review the matter. As fared the best, thanks to a backup generator of press time, it was unclear whether to keep business going. that took place. Cabrera interjected on But as far as Cabrera sees it, the sight behalf of the property owner and store is an “eyesore” for the financial epicenter owners, telling White that the mer- of Mt. Hope, where jobs are critical to the chants have already lost a week’s worth working poor in the area. “They’re not of business. Photo by David Cruz sure when they’re going to be able to start “Every week matters,” said Cabrera. A black hole can now be seen along this row of stores in Mt. Hope, the result of a their jobs,” said Cabrera. “They don’t get subsidies, they still have three-alarm fire. to pay rent. It’s just all the pressure. People Wrangling With Insurance “In that instance we put in a request for Business Recovery are going to walk into a place that’s dark But the long term is arguably the most a fire report, even if it’s not ready yet be- The short term and long term effects and scary.” problematic. Each small business will be- cause they’re still investigating” said Na- are prevalent. The short term involves Khalid Omar, the owner of Burnside gin the lumbering process of wrangling tion. “We put in that request. So as soon as business owners haggling Con Edison, Furniture, a store which sustained the with insurance companies to determine it’s ready, they send us a copy and we will the utility company, to restore power. Util- least damage, is at a financial loss. He es- how much is owed. An assessor is likely get that copy to you because that will expe- ity crews have canvassed the fire-swept pecially pointed out this time of the year, the first step, which would sift through dite or accelerate your insurance claim.” street, but to Jeffrey Katz, it’s not enough. tax season, as when business picks up. the rubble for the most damaged, such Business owners could only qualify for Katz is the owner of the property, staying Tax returns often inspire some foot traffic as the 99 cent store owned by John Wang. small business loans, often requiring the in his family’s name for 60 years. into his store. “And the landlord of course Wang, an Asian native, had purchased the help of an attorney, a reason why lawyers Outside, Katz scrambled back and wants his rent on time so they don’t care store three months ago, seeing no profit. for Bronx Legal Services, who were pres- forth between stores, speaking to plumb- about the damages,” said Omar. “But this “With all this going, we want to see ent at the meeting, would offer pro bono ers, electricians and laborers. At the is New York.” what kind of options we have,” said Da- services when reviewing legal paperwork. vid, his interpreter. With no option to qualify for grants, Still, pursuing an insurance payout is merchants qualify for loans from the state perhaps the best recourse, said Bernadette Department of Financial Services or the Nation, a representative with the city’s Bronx Overall Development Corporation. Small Business Services. Nation, who’s dealt They offer borrowers to take out loans with small business disasters in the bor- through Bethex Federal Credit Union or ough, admits that navigating the bureaucra- the Business Initiative Corporation of cy is perhaps the most daunting. It’s a more New York. Documentation is required. pragmatic reason to work with an insurer to assess the damage and file a claim. The Next Few Months “You’re going to need that resource to Though Mamadu Dommo, owner of Tu- help you with recovering from this disas- douga Wireless, lost several thousand dol- ter,” said Nation, exhorting merchants to lars worth of items, he plans on rebuilding heed the advice. She did assure merchants again. He has his sights now on a different that she will remain on top of the recov- location, thanking God for being far re- ery efforts. But insurance payouts can moved from his store when the fire raged. take months since fire investigators are Cabrera, realizing the struggles pitted required to offer a cause of a fire before on small businesses, sensed that some of insurers can move forward. At this point, these merchants have a long way to go. it’s unclear what caused the three-alarm “You don’t own the business,” he said. blaze. Nation did give options. “The business owns you. April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News n 7 5-2 Vows Crackdown on ‘Pooper-trators’ (continued from page 1) also made by the Mosholu Preservation out there than Sanitation, so this new ef- ment of Sanitation’s Enforcement Division plained Helene Hartman-Kutnowsky of the Corporation when it launched its own fort should be helpful.” has not been asked by the 52nd Precinct to Community Board’s Sanitation Committee. “Cut the Crap” campaign in 2004, provid- Dawkins added in an email that “the participate in any joint patrol activities.” “The person has to be caught red-handed,” ing dog waste plastic bags throughout Department will continue to have these ar- It remains to be seen whether these re- she explained. “You can’t catch it on video Williamsbridge Oval. eas monitored for failure to remove canine newed efforts will quell the stinky situa- and say where people live.” “If you are walking your dog and you waste and unleashed dogs.” But contrary tion, with the 5-2 declining to comment on Cortez related that the city Sanitation are caught without cleaning up after it, to Cortez’s comments to the Community the effectiveness of their new measures Department is responsible for penalizing the law will be enforced, and it will be the Board, Dawkins wrote that “the Depart- so far. business owners for frequent excrement most expensive piece of crap you’ll ever in their storefronts, but its enforcement pay for,” Diaz said during the conference. efforts are impeded. “One of the problems Forgotten pet feces poses a serious A Bridge Over Major Deegan with Sanitation enforcement agents is health risk, carrying parasites and diseas- they cannot require people caught to pro- es such as E. coli, which a California Health vide identification, only Sanitation police Department found become more dangerous officers can do that,” she explained. “We if the excrement is not cleaned up quickly. have asked the Sanitation Department to add more patrols to the area Officers Mobilizing Hartman-Kutnowsky also finds that Although they hadn’t begun actively en- the area itself is likely to draw these sorts forcing their new push as of the mid-March of issues. “We definitely lead the borough meeting, Cortez is hopeful that getting the in dog excrement, but that’s because we word out penalizing a few offenders will de- live near beautiful areas where people ter further soiling of city streets. like to walk their dogs and have a popu- Cortez assured the crowd that neighbors lation that can afford pets,” she said. “It’s will begin calling one another as the word a double-edged sword, but that doesn’t ex- of fines and summonses spreads, which - cuse the behavior.” in addition to her passing around a pad of The New York Department of Sanitation paper for community members to suggest recorded 76 complaints in the 2013 fiscal areas where the dog poop seemed concen- year, and another 71 requests to 311 for ca- trated - garnered the Community Affairs Photo by David Greene nine law enforcement so far this fiscal year, officer applause. She emphasized that she’s Activists along with city, state and federal lawmakers are demanding the according to spokeswoman Kathy Dawkins. aware the quality of life issue is problemat- city keep its promise of building a pedestrian bridge over the Major Deegan Ex- So-called doggy landmines have been a ic and that five-two officers will be briefed. pressway that cuts through Van Cortlandt Park. The bridge was to be part of a major problem in the Bronx, so much so “If any officer sees someone walking package of perks the neighborhood would receive in exchange for the construc- that legislators and Bronx Borough Presi- their dog, which stops to go to the bath- tion of the Croton Water Filtration Plant. Friends of Van Cortlandt Park have pressed dent Ruben Diaz Jr. have shed light on the room, and the owner doesn’t pick it up the city for years to get a bridge installed, but the Department of Environmental issue. Diaz called on the police to crack immediately, they will be stopped, asked Protection says there’s no money. Holding up signs are (l-r) Councilman Andy Co- down on negligent dog owners violating for identification, and they would be is- hen, State Senator Jose Serrano, Assemblyman Jeff Dinowitz, Congressman Eliot the “pooper scooper law” during an Oc- sued a summons immediately,” Cortez Engel and Community Board 12 Chairman Father Richard Gorman. tober 2011 news conference. Efforts were explained. “There are more police officers 8 n April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News BP Envisions Vibrant Waterfront in Years Ahead By SHAYLA LOVE that for SHRWD, they expect it to be paid for “through public and private partnership.” He said it was too soon The Bronx wants to take back its waterfront property. to go into specifics and that there is no timeline for com- With the successful transformation of crumbling riv- pletion at this time. erfronts on the Hudson and East rivers, Borough Presi- But he admits delivery of this waterfront is years in dent Ruben Diaz Jr. is pursuing a new waterfront district the making. Indeed, developers would need to buy up along the Harlem River between 138th and 149th streets. the existing New York Recycling Center and bus depot The park is made possible because of the 2009 rezoning to make way for the waterfront. Bronx residents will of the Lower Concourse, which encourages greater den- have to wait to see what the strategy for tackling this sity, commercial and residential activity. park will be. An aerial view on the Google Maps website shows “Our office has had extensive conversations with the empty lots, piers and storage units, which would be re- Department of City Planning regarding the viability of vamped into 1.1 million square feet of residential space, this proposal, and that agency has contributed greatly to 865,000 square feet of commercial space and 269,000 this process,” DeSio said. “We’ve had discussions with square feet of park and community space, according organizations, elected officials, community members to Diaz’s plan. “It is time for the creation of a new wa- Photo by David Cruz and others about this proposal, and those discussions terfront district...” Diaz said in his statement about his A current look at the waterfront between 138th are ongoing.” venture. “One that would lead to development similar and 149th streets where Borough President Ruben Diaz to the Brooklyn Bridge Park. Bronxites should have the Jr. envisions to be a family-friendly neighborhood desti- Looking Ahead quality waterfront access, and this project could make nation akin to Brooklyn’s waterfront. But the proposal is Brooklyn Bridge Park is still unfinished, but has been that happen.” predicted for years in the future. successfully on mark in its financial goals so far. Cape The Special Harlem River Waterfront District (SHR- said about their model: “The proof is in the pudding - WD) would create thousands of jobs, mixed-income be coming for the SHRWD. She said that Brooklyn Bridge the park is incredibly popular, expanding at leaps and housing and over $500 million in new development to Park, from its founding Memorandum of Understanding bounds, and at this juncture, 72 percent complete or un- the Bronx, Diaz said. The only question becomes one of (MOU) in 2002, was mandated to be financially self-sus- der construction.” funding, to get the project off the ground. taining. Former mayor Michael Bloomberg and former Hopes are just as high for SHRWD. The New York Dai- governor George Pataki dedicated state and city fund- ly News imagined a hot summer night watching a movie Finding Funding ing for its construction with the condition that the park along the river, under the stars, with Yankee Stadium as Walking along Brooklyn Bridge Park’s lush green- would be economically self-sufficient. To do this, the a backdrop. foresees a destination belts, bustling sports fields and playgrounds, it’s hard park’s construction included high-rise towers and retail park, comparing the result to Brooklyn Bridge Park. No to imagine the park’s dilapidated predecessor. The piers stores to generate funds. matter how Diaz gets there, the park symbolizes not just used to be sagging emblems of an industrial past, as did “Revenue producing development is a necessary renovation, but innovation. much of New York City’s waterfront real estate. Brook- component of the project to support its annual mainte- Diaz said that new development encourages greater lyn has successfully made the East River property their nance and operations,” Cape said. “At this point, this progression of the Bronx as a whole and that “all over own again. revenue-generating development is approved for approx- the world, people are thinking differently about our The Norwood News spoke to Brooklyn Bridge Park’s imately 10 percent of the park’s footprint.” borough. And here at home, the 1.4 million people who Belinda Cape, vice president of Strategic Partnership, So how does this translate to the borough? Same prin- proudly call themselves Bronxites are embracing the about their park’s funding, to get an idea of what could ciple. John DeSio, a spokesman from Diaz’s office, said ‘New Bronx.’” April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News n 9 Business Beat First Bronx Crunch Fitness Gym Wants To Pump You Up! By DAVID CRUZ

Assaf Gal stood on a sidewalk on 205th Street near Webster Avenue one after- noon in January, promoting his newest venture—a Crunch Fitness gym in the Bronx. He spotted a mailwoman, handing her a Crunch ad that caused her to jolt. “She just takes it and looks at it and goes, ‘a Crunch? Here in the Bronx?’” re- called Gal, mimicking the lady’s squeaky intonation. “That’s right, ma’am,” he re- sponded with a grin. “First one!” By first he means the first Crunch Fit- ness franchise ever to open its doors in the Bronx, a borough where exercise is often an afterthought. It’s also Gal’s first-time venture in gym ownership, though he’s cer- tainly familiar with the importance of ex- ercise. After all, Gal, a strong-jawed 29-year- old with a compartmentalized hulky frame and easygoing demeanor, has incorporated exercise into his life for the past 15 years. He competed in high school wrestling before building a lifestyle around daily exercise. Understanding the importance of staying fit, Gal is often known to catch a few seconds of exercise by performing a set of pull-ups as he’s re-racking weights or picking up a hand wipe. Photo by David Cruz Assaf Gal (right), owner of the first-ever Crunch Fitness gym, stands by the familiar big gym chain logo. He stands with the gym’s Nurturing “His Baby” general manager Nilsa Miranda. The owner of the gym, Gal, has since treated his fitness venue like it’s “his es with awesome instructors and the to reverse by promoting healthy lifestyles Gal wished “them all the best,” adding baby,” nurturing it the way any health Crunch-branded classes,” said Gal. “So I and exercise events for the community. that “hopefully we can be friendly com- conscience dieter would to their body. think we really set ourselves apart.” And he also wants to be a friendly com- petitors.” It’s a phrase that’s been heard around petitor to already established big chain Community members have since been the gym ever since Gal opened Crunch Choosing the Bronx establishments in the Bronx. Indeed, the awaiting Crunch Fitness’ opening, peg- Fitness on March 17. The business can be For Gal, the experience of owning a gym Bronx is home to eight Planet Fitness ging the establishment as an example of found on the second floor of 3170 Webster feels right at home to him, unlike his early franchises, three Bally’s Total Fitness what the neighborhood would like to see Ave., a prominent three-story building years in the corporate world that offered lit- gyms, and one New York Sports Club. along rezoned Webster Avenue. that occupies a charter school. tle satisfaction, he noted. He vetted several The Norwood gym, a 15,000-square-foot other gym companies before investing in facility on the second floor cast in metallic Crunch Fitness, which has enjoyed success blue, orange and purple colors, boasts 20 in . But after vetting Crunch Fit- treadmills, six stair masters, eight bikes, ness, the next step was to determine wheth- and weight machine circuits, according er the Bronx was the right fit. It was. to Gal. Men and women locker rooms are “I love the neighborhood,” said Gal. available with five showers each. While “When I first got here I didn’t really know members work on their routine they can what I was getting into, but every time I take advantage of the high definition TVs, come here I like it more and more. I go to hear club music play in the background, a different restaurant.” or stare at some catchy phrases such as And part of Gal’s strategy in retaining “Perspire to Greatness” or “It’s not how customers goes beyond the number of much you lift, it’s the grunt that gets you high-tech machines, veering instead to- there” emblazoned on the walls. wards customer service. “I tell my staff everything that you’re Perks doing, whether you’re cleaning the toi- The gym has been in a frenzy of sorts, let, checking someone or selling a bottle signing up neighbors with rapid pace. of water, do it in a way where someone Monthly prices run either at $9.95 or $19.95 would say thank you,” said Gal. “Because a month with zero contracts, though a $39 if we start off on this foot and keep going, yearly fee applies. While the former of- then we’ll be okay.” fers locals access to the gym along with an online nutrition program, the latter Settling In features plenty of more amenities that The business of physical fitness in the include personal trainers, group fitness Bronx has somewhat been lacking when classes and specialized machines such as compared to the other boroughs. The a hydro massager. Premium members can Bronx, remaining largely unhealthy, has also bring a friend and visit other Crunch seen a surge of gyms in the area, serving Fitness facilities within the tri-state ex- as vehicles to combat health disparities cept Manhattan. such as obesity and heart disease, common “We set ourselves apart by having ailments in the borough. Recent statistics personal trainers that are certified with by The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Photo by David Cruz experience. We still have the personal ranked the Bronx dead last when it came This neighbor works her abs at the Crunch Fitness gym in Norwood, settling into a fitness classes which are real live class- to healthier lifestyles, a trend Gal hopes routine. 10 n April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News

Jerome-Gun Hill BID Hails a Raffle Winner! Get Ready for the 6th Annual Run for the Wild By PAOLO MOSSETTI health of our community,” emphasiz- ing the need to run, play and exercise as Strap on your running shoes! The Four crucial to a healthier lifestyle. Running Bronx Institution Alliance wants you to has been known for its overall benefit of take a run on the wild side. keeping people fit. Other benefits include The neighborhood pillars--Montefio- boosting confidence, relieving stress and re Medical Center, Fordham University, depression. “Opportunities to run, play the Bronx Zoo and the New York Botan- and exercise are crucial,” said Safyer, ical Garden--will once again sponsor “which is why this is a favorite annual Run for the Wild, now in its sixth year. event for our associates, their families The run, held at the Bronx Zoo, takes and hundreds of community members.” place on Saturday, April 26. Participants Past runs have supported the zoo’s can either take part in the 5k run or a work to save gorillas, tigers, lions, pen- Family Fun Run/Walk. Attendees are guins, and elephants. Due to the severity required to raise a minimum of $30 to of the elephant poaching crisis in Afri- participate, with a variety of prizes, ca, for the first time this event will be ranging from a T-shirt to a VIP break- dedicated to the same species two years fast that will be awarded to those who in a row. “The campaign is making great meet different fund-raising goals. For strides toward realization of its goal this reason, the zoo encouraged runners of eliminating the demand for ivory,” to seek individual sponsors. All dona- Calvelli said. “But the work is not done Photo courtesy Jerome-Gun Hill BID tions will then go to the zoo’s elephant and elephants are still being poached at Carmen Ballarte (left) is the big winner of the Jerome-Gun Hill Business Im- conservation program. an unprecedented rate.” provement District’s Valentine’s Day Raffle Contest which took place during Febru- “Everyone participating will be help- The zoo’s 96 Campaign is working to ary. Customers shopped at several areas around the BID, which stretches from Je- ing the Wildlife Conservation Society secure moratoria on the sale of ivory, bol- rome Avenue and Mosholu Parkway, to Jerome Avenue and East Gun Hill Road. (WCS) make real progress in the fight ster protection of African elephants and Ballarte, winner of a $100 gift card to Grace Optical, holds up her certificate along- to save these majestic animals from the educate the public about the link between side Marcia Cameron (right) executive director of the Jerome-Gun Hill BID. slaughter they are confronted with dai- the use of ivory and elephant hunting. ly,” said John Calvelli, director of the 96 Since its inception in 2009, 30,000 peo- Elephants Campaign, a group spreading ple have participated in Run for the Wild awareness on endangered elephants. And events, and $3.5 million has been raised the run also serves to promote another through donations and sponsorship. good cause--your health. Registration for the event, that is Dr. Steven Safyer, president and CEO expected to sell out, is now open at of Montefiore Medical Center, said the Run for the Wild’s website, and partic- hospital is “committed to improving the ipants are encouraged to sign up early.

Photo courtesy Montefiore Medical Center Ready, set, go! Hundreds are expected at the 6th annual Run for the Wild, spon- sored by the Four Bronx Institutions Alliance. April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News n 11 12 n April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News Subway Art Projects Set to Pop Up in Bronx Stations By PAOLO MOSSETTI area. “And the above mentioned rating system is still the best and most reliable Bronxites have never been too com- tool that we use,” said Bloodworth, who passionate with their subway. Com- ramped up efforts to clean up the subways plaints about cleanliness, severe delays during the ‘90s. and bizarre encounters for commuters Most of the artwork we see today is are simply part of everyday life. And the result of a radical renovation that oc- while it’s no secret that the underground curred between the late 1980s and the late system is aesthetically challenged, the 1990s, when the MTA decided that the time contrast with other major cities around had come for making the riders’ commute the world is even harsher, as all over the not just more efficient, but more pleasant Internet, photo galleries of newly inau- to their eye. Under the Art for Transit proj- gurated, art-filled subway lines are pop- ect, where funding comes from 1 percent ping up. of the MTA’s budget, 19 Bronx stations The trend, though at a lumbering pace, were initially chosen. “It was a lot of work is picking up steam in the Bronx. to do,” recalled Bloodworth. Kevin Ortiz, spokesman for the Met- The NYC subway is the only major un- ropolitan Transportation Agency, said derground system that operates 24 hours that the Kingsbridge Road elevated 4 and per day, while many others close over- 5 subway lines are among the stations night for cleaning and maintenance. The currently under renovation, where rid- Photo by Paolo Mossetti MTA has 468 stations, while other metro ers will eventually notice fresh new art- Subway art like this one at the Mosholu Parkway station on the 4 line could very systems have only a couple dozen stations works. Meanwhile, the Gun Hill Road on well be seen at other stations in the coming months, according to the MTA. at most. the 2 line and Bedford Park Boulevard The system is evolving non-stop, slow- and the 4 and 5 lines are slated for an ar- The new art works will complement train’s Woodlawn station. ly upgrading with hi-tech subway trains tistic facelift. pieces already found in the borough’s B, Finding the next station to refurbish and more pleasurable waiting areas. Aes- The process of incorporating art piec- D, 4 and 5 lines. Over 30 works of art can and artistically spruce up involves an in- thetical upgrades are just as important as es in a train station is not an easy process, be seen affixed to platforms and interior ternal rating system the MTA has adopt- functional upgrades. according Sandra Bloodworth, the MTA’s architecture. In northwest Bronx sta- ed. “...[T]he MTA started using a rating “The plan was to outreach the Bronx director of Art for Transit for nearly 20 tions, some pieces can be found, including system on the condition of the stations all Council, to hold seminars, to provide op- years. “But every station is a different Corinne Grondahl’s mosaic glass at the over New York,” said Bloodworth. portunities for Bronx artists who were in- case, a different story,” she said. “Elevat- Mosholu Parkway station on the 4 line, The system was still recovering from terested in working with us,” Bloodworth ed platforms present completely different entitled Birth of a Station (2008), or the the decay of the 1970s, and it took a lot of said. The response was enthusiastic, and challenges compared to underground faceted glass windows of Josie Gonzalez time and money to clean up and refurbish that gave Art for Transit the confidence platforms.” Albright’s Children at Play (2005) at the 4 older stations. The idea was to install new to expand their program. “More recently artwork, giving priority to the terminals we started looking broader, and we are in- with the highest number of users, inter- volving a growing number of internation- changes and population density in the al artists.” April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News n 13 Classifieds Professional Directory Pediatric Services Religious Services Law Offices

Tiga Pediatrics Good News Christian Church Glad Tidings Assembly of God James M. Visser, Esq. 3510 Bainbridge Avenue, Suite 5, 3061 Bainbridge Ave. 2 Van Cortlandt Ave. E. and Jerome General Practice Bronx, NY 10467 (basement of the Church of the Holy Avenue Accidents, Commercial Ages 0 to 21 years Nativity) (718) 367-4040 Wills & Estates General Practice, Obesity, Asthma, Bronx, NY 10467 Prayer Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and Offices Bronx and Manhattan ADHD (347) 329-0023 7:30 p.m. (646) 260-6326 Same-Day Appointment Every Day! Pastors James and Andrea Miller Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. (718) 881-8999 Sunday service at 2 p.m. Sunday Service at 11 a.m. Judith A. Simms, Esq. Home fellowship bible studies on Immigration Law Practice Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Green Cards, Citizenship, etc. Friday night prayer service at 7 p.m. 3612 White Plains Road Visit us at www.goodnewscc. Bronx, NY 10467 wordpress.com. (347) 460-0765

SERVICES MISCELLANEOUS Computer Repair: Upgrade, Cash Paid: For antiques, old items, troubleshooting: Laptop overheats, collectibles, artwork, jewelry, books, Now Hiring! cracked screen, broken power jack, records, coins, stamps, sports cards, virus removal, data recovery. Call bric-a-brac. Moving sales, estates, James (646) 281-4475, (718) 324- contents of homes. (718) 882-0598 The Norwood News is looking for an advertis- 4332. (home), or (347) 734-9261 (cell). ing sales rep to help grow the Bronx’s best com- Cleaning Service: Houses, Trip to Atlantic City: Taj Mahal munity newspaper. Applicants must be outgoing apartments, and offices cleaned. Casino, Sat., April 12, from East Free estimates. Reasonable rates. 163rd Street (Southern Boulevard) self-starters with some sales experience. Contact Mark at (718) 882-0598. at 10:30 a.m. For more information, contact Eddie at (718) 757-5485. If interested in joining our team, send cover let- Classifieds: $12 for the first 20 words and 25 cents for each additional word. ter, resume and references to us at Professional Directory: $144 for six months; $260 for one year. To place an [email protected]. ad, call (718) 324-4998 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday thru Friday.

4/30/14 4/30/14 14 n April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News

n Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand who creates a forest in his room, then make Editor’s Pick Concourse (165th Street), presents free your own miniature version, April 5 and 6; First Friday, April 4, 6 to 10 p.m., featuring and Drawing on Nature, to sketch nature film, art performances, music and other using sticks and wax and color using dirt and C-Ball in the Bronx special events. For more information, call flowers for an outdoor group installation, (718) 681-6000. April 12 and 13; both at the WH House from The public is invited to the free Community Board Athletic Leadership League’s C-Ball 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Additional events include: event featuring NYC Health vs. Bronx Celebrities, April 5 at Community School 214, n Bronx Arts Ensemble presents its Annual Performance: Mark Twain Illuminated, a 1970 W. Farms Rd. (off Tremont Avenue). Additional activities include pre-registered Gala, April 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the dramatic reading of this former WH resident, youth clinic at 11 a.m., female game at 1:30 p.m., and male game at 3 p.m. Also Riverdale Yacht Club, 800 W. 254th St. on April 6 at 2 p.m. in the WH House (tickets present will be a live DJ, media, celebrities and elected officials. For more information the Hudson River, to celebrate and support are $32; $28/senior; $18/ages 7 to 18; WH or to RSVP, call (718) 583-7017 ext. 150. BAE’s arts-in-education programs in Bronx members $22; child/$12; call ext. 251); Hello schools. For more information, call (718) Spring (free weekend), April 12 and 13, Onstage special discounts, call (718) 960-8833. 601-7399. featuring a variety of events (call for details); and a series of Family Workshops, featuring n The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kings- n The Williamsbridge Oval Recreation n Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, arts and crafts, April 15 to 17 from 1:30 to 3 bridge Rd., presents Flamenco Music and Center, 3225 Reservoir Oval E., offers 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W. presents Lehman p.m. in the WH House (call for fees, to RSVP Dance, by Arts Flamenco, April 5; and Latin ongoing zumba sessions, Wednesdays Brass Quintet, featuring classical and or for more details). The Sunroom Project Jazz With Papo y Su Orchestra, April 12; both at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at noon. original music, April 10 at 11 a.m.; and offers a series of events from April 8 to Nov. at 2:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) No registration is required. For more Lehman Woodwind Quintet, featuring 20 (call for a detailed schedule). Grounds 579-4244/46/57 or visit www.nypl.org. information, call (718) 543-8672. classical music, April 13 at 2 p.m. (both admission is free Saturdays until noon all in the Music Building’s Recital Hall); and n Registration is now open for Mosholu year, and free all day Tuesdays in April. The Met: Live in HD, featuring Puccini’s Events Montefiore Community Center’sB’N Glyndor Gallery tours take place Tuesdays La Boheme, April 5 at 12:55 p.m. in the Fit Annual Teen and Community Walk and Saturdays at 2 p.m.; garden walks are n Lovinger Theatre (all free); TAO: Phoenix National Jewish Outreach Program scheduled for May 17 at the NY Botanical held Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Rising, April 6 at 4 p.m., featuring Taiko (NJOP) invites the public to its Passover Garden from 8 to 11 a.m. ($10). For more Sundays at 2 p.m., from the Perkins Visitor drumming from Japan (tickets: $25 to Across America, a holiday celebration, information, call (718) 882-4000 ext. 350. Center. For more information and a schedule $35); and Russian National Ballet: Don April 14 and 15 at 8:15 p.m. ($10), at of events, call (718) 549-3200. Quixote, April 13 at 4 p.m. (tickets $25 to the Van Cortlandt Jewish Center, 3880 n Wave Hill, a Bronx oasis at 675 W. 252nd $45). Program is subject to change; call Sedgwick Ave. Reservations are required St. in Riverdale, offers Family Arts Projects: n An Easter Egg Hunt takes place on April 19 to confirm. For more information or for by April 8 at (718) 884-6105. Living Structures, to hear the story of a boy at Williamsbridge Oval Park from 11:30 a.m. April 3–16, 2014 n Norwood News n 15 to 2 p.m. Carnival games, potato sack races, learn how things are made and to make a 10; and Reading Aloud Story Time at 4 Chess Program: (ages 5 to 12), April 15 at music and, of course, a traditional Easter collage, April 3 at 11 a.m.; Latino & Puerto p.m.: (ages 3 to 5), April 7. Adult speakers 4 p.m. For adults: Checkmate Chess: April Egg Hunt is in store. Separate hunts for kids Rican Cultural Center/Heritage Exhibit Tour: of other languages can join Free English 5 at 1 p.m.; and Computer Basics Open between ages 1 and 5 and those 6 to 11 will (phone or in-person registration required), Conversation Program: intermediate level, Lab at noon: April 9, 15 and 17. For teens/ happen starting at 1:30 p.m. Children must April 5 at 7 p.m.; Edgar Allan Poe at Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m., through April young adults: Teen Science: April 17 at 4 bring their own baskets. Fordham: a talk by Dr. Gary Hermalyn, April 8. The entire family can attend film: “The p.m. For more information, call (718) 549- 16 at 6 p.m.; and Understanding Money Hunger Games: Catching Fire,” April 7 at 5200. & Credit: April 17 at 11 a.m. Children can 4:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) Exhibits enjoy Preschool Story Time at 11 a.m.: April 882-8239. A HAPPY AND HEALTHY PASSOVER TO 3, 10 and 17; Toddler Play Time at noon: ALL OUR JEWISH READERS! n The Bronx County Historical Society’s April 3, 10 and 17; Funny Bunny Basket n The Jerome Park Library, 118 Eames Museum of Bronx History at the Valentine- NOTE: Items for consideration may Making: April 3 at 4 p.m.; Family Time: (pre- Place (near Kingsbridge Road), offers: Kids’ Varian House, 3266 Bainbridge Ave., be mailed to our office or sent to registration required; ages 3 to 6), reading Active Health: (ages 5 to 12), April 4 and 11 presents History Woven Into Cloth, [email protected], and aloud and crafts, April 12 at 11 a.m.; and at 4 p.m.; Toddler Story Time at 11 a.m.: selections from the Society’s textile should be received by April 7 for the next Plant Pot Making: (ages 7 to 12), April 17 (ages 18 to 36 months), April 9 and 16; and collection, through April 6. For more publication date of April 17. at 4 p.m. Foreigners can attend ESOL: free information, call (718) 881-8900. English classes, April 14 and 22 at noon and n Andrew Freedman Home, 1125 Grand 6 p.m. The entire family can visit the 2014 Bird Watching At Wave Hill Concourse, presents Expanding Views: Free College Fair: April 16 from 11 a.m. to The Art of Daniel Hauben, through April 5. 7 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579- For more information, call (718) 293-8100. 4244/46/57 or visit www.nypl.org. n The Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., Library Events offers for seniors and adults: Knitting Circle: Thursdays at 3 p.m.; and Wii n The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Program: Tuesdays at 3 p.m. Children Kingsbridge Rd., presents programs for can enjoy Toddler Story Time at 10:30 adults including: Marvelous Materials: to a.m.: (ages 18 to 36 months), April 3 and Neighborhood Notes Legal Workshop of life issues and borough pride. Entries are due by April 11 at the BP’s office. For State Sen. Gustavo Rivera presents a more information, visit http://bit.ly/re- “Know Your Rights Legal Workshop: Stop spectourblock. and Frisk” on Wednesday, April 9 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Youth Photo courtesy Joshua Bright Center, 3485 Third Ave. For more infor- SYEP Bird lovers can take advantage of Wave Hill’s Birding Walk slated for April. mation or to RSVP (required), call (718) NYC’s Summer Youth Employment 933-2034 or email RSVPSenatorRivera@ Program is accepting applications for gmail.com. residents ages 14 to 24 through April 25. Those chosen will be selected via lottery Crime Prevention drawing. Participants are paid minimum wage and work at diverse types of busi- Workshops nesses. For more information, call (800) The Bronx DA’s Crime Victims and 246-4646 or visit www.nyc.gov/dycd. Community Affairs Units will sponsor several free workshops, for adults ages MetroCard Vans 21+ only, honoring Crime Prevention MetroCard vans will be making stops Week, at Community Board 12’s Carriage on the second and fourth Friday of each House, 4101 White Plains Rd.: “Protecting month at Fordham Road and the Grand Our Children, a new approach; lessons Concourse from noon to 2 p.m.; and Ford- learned from sex offenders,” Tuesday, ham Plaza from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Seniors with April 8; “The Many Faces of Domestic Vi- photo ID may apply for reduced fare cards olence,” Wednesday, April 9; and “Sexual and others may add value or purchase Assault,” Thursday, April 10; all from 6 to cards. For more information, call (212) 8 p.m. For more information or to RSVP, METRO-CARD or visit www.mta.info. call (718) 838-7461. Homebuyer Counseling & Summer Camp Applications The Fresh Air Fund is accepting ap- Free Tax prep plications for its free 2014 summer camp The University Neighborhood Hous- program for eligible children ages 6 to12 ing Program holds homebuyer counseling for the Volunteer Host Family Program, sessions at the Northwest Bronx Resource and ages 8 to 15 for the camping program Center, 2715 Bainbridge Ave., offering free in Fishkill, NY. For more information, one-on-one professional assistance (ap- call (800) 367-0003 or go online to www. pointments are available on the first and freshair.org. third Friday of every month) and free tax Registration is open for summer day preparation sessions most Wednesdays (1 camp at the Kingsbridge Heights Com- to 5 p.m.) and Saturdays (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) munity Center, 3101 Kingsbridge Terrace. until April 9. For more information or an For more information, call Marlene Del- appointment, call (718) 933-2539. gado at (718) 884-0700 ext. 168 or visit www. khcc.org. Poster Contest The Bronx Borough President’s Office For more Neighborhood Notes invites Bronx students in all grades to online, go to www.norwoodnews. enter its “Respect Our Block” poster con- org and click on “Neighborhood test. This event is geared towards quality Notes.”