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ORWOODQ EWSQ NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 ORWOODQ EWSQ Vol 32, No 17 • Pu b l i s h e d By Mo s h o l u Preservation Co r p o r a t i o n • Au g u s t 29-Se p t e m b e r 11, 2019 NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 FREE INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: SEE PICTURES: NCBH SEX ABUSE SUITS | PG. 4 BACK-TO-SCHOOL health FAIR | PG. 12 BX. OPIOID CRISIS GETS SENATE’S ATTENTION Skateboard Park Forums aim to determine solutions to ongoing drug epidemic Finally Opens pg 5

Norwood Man Shot to Death pg 10

Photo by Adi Talwar THE UNDERPASS LEADING to the entrance of the Kingsbridge Road B/D subway station doubles as a common drug use spot dubbed Back-to-School “The Tunnel.” There have been 391 reported heroin overdoses in in 2018, according to newly released statistics. In Norwood By JOSÉ A. GIRALT In the written announce- reduce the rate of addiction tanyl use. The district also pg 14 Officials from the New ment, Dr. Oxiris Barbot, to drugs. covers Kingsbridge Heights, York City Health Depart- commissioner of the Health Sen. Gustavo Rivera is one home to a known drug use ment announced a three per- Department, said, “The de- of the co-chairs of the task spot referred to as “The Tun- cent decrease in overdose crease in drug overdose force. “It’s not just a prob- nel,” a gloomy underpass deaths from 2017 to 2018. But deaths is promising, but far lem in . It’s not that leads to the Kingsbridge of the 1,444 overdose deaths too many New Yorkers are just a problem in the Bronx. Road subway station on the citywide, the Bronx saw an still dying.” It’s a problem everywhere,” B/D line. Directly across the increase with 391 in 2018, an The news came three Rivera said in his opening entrance, used hypodermic eight percent increase, desig- weeks after state senators remarks. needles can be spotted along nating it as the only borough held a public hearing at St. Rivera represents the 33rd the pathway, cordoned off with more than 300 overdose Barnabas Hospital on Aug. Senate District, covering by construction barricades. deaths in 2018, continuing 8, featuring a variety of ex- Fordham, an area that con- Several homeless men and the unbreakable trend of opi- perts tackling the responsive sistently ranks among the women were found sleep- pg 26 oid-related fatalities. rate of opioid overdoses and top neighborhoods for fen- (continued on page 27) 2 • August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST Vol. 32, No. 17 Vol. 27, No. 10 With Dems Nominating Three to Bronx Supreme Court Bench, Cohen Stays Put NorwoodVol. News 27, No.is published 10 bi-weekly on Thursdays by By JOSEPH KONIG works in the mayor’s community affairs MosholuNorwood Preservation News Corporationis published (MPC) There will not be a special election office, according to his LinkedIn page. Norwood3400 Reservoir News isOval published East for the 11th Council District. At least, not He also spent time in Coun- bi-weekly on Thursdays by bi-weeklyBronx, New on ThursdaysYork 10467 by this year. cilman Keith Powers’ office and as a tour MosholuPhone: Preservation 718 324 4998Corporation Mosholu Preservation Corporation The Bronx Democratic Party nomi- guide at the Museum of Sex. 3400Fax: Reservoir 718 324 Oval2917 East nated three candidates to the Bronx Su- Cohen told the Norwood News in E-mail: [email protected] Reservoir Oval East Web.:Bronx, www.norwoodnews.org 10467 preme Court at a judicial convention April 2019 he was considering a run for Bronx, New York 10467 on Aug. 8. None of the nominees were Bronx Borough President in 2021. Fellow Councilman Andrew Cohen, delaying term-limited council members Vanessa Publisher Phone: 718 324 4998 Phone: 718 324 4998 the long-anticipated campaign to suc- Gibson and Fernando Cabrera are re- Mosholu PreservationFax: 718 324 Corporation 2917 Fax: 718 324 2917 ceed the term-limited councilman for at portedly considering a run for the seat. E-mail: [email protected] least another year and theories of party The current occupant of the borough SeniorE-mail: Director [email protected] of MPC Melissa Web:Cebollero www.norwoodnews.org orchestration. president’s office, Ruben Diaz Jr., is term- Web: www.norwoodnews.org Instead, Bronx Democrats nominated limited himself and launched a run for Executive Director of MPC Bahaati Pitt and John Higgit to two open mayor. Padernacht is a lawyer and a for- Jennifer Tausig seats and re-nominated Wilma Guzman mer chair for Community Board 8, where PublisherEditor-in-Chief, NorwoodCEO, News Mosholu Publisher CEO, Mosholu to the seat she’s held since 2006. Gov. An- he currently serves as chair of the trans- MosholuDavid Cruz, Preservation [email protected] 3UHVHUYDWLRQ drew Cuomo appointed Higgit to the New portation committee. In 2010, Padernacht Mosholu Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQ CorporationProofreader Corporation York State Court of Claims in 2018, but he challenged infamous state Sen. Pedro Es- Corporation Corporation was moved to the Bronx Supreme Court pada Jr. in the Democratic primary. He Editor-in-ChiefJudy Noy Roberto S. Garcia Editor-in-Chief Roberto S. Garcia shortly after to serve on an interim ba- backed out in the days before the election DavidInterns Cruz David Cruz sis. Pitt was first appointed a judge by and threw his support behind Gustavo Sha-Nia Alston, Michael Turay Mayor in 2016, serving on File photo by Jose A. Giralt Rivera, who ultimately won. &ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJRegular Contributors the city’s civil and criminal courts. IT’S LIKELY COUNCILMAN Andrew Co- The younger Dinowitz also serves DawnDavid&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ McEvoy Greene, Adi Talwar A former court attorney for the Bronx hen (pictured) will fi nish out his term after on CB8 as the board’s aging committee ContributorsDawn McEvoy Supreme Court and a professor at the the Bronx Democratic Party did not nomi- chair, the position Cohen held before he $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH John Jay College of Criminal Justice, ran for City Council in 2013. Dinowitz is Miriam Quinones, José A. Giralt, nate him for a judgeship. Dawn$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH McEvoy Cohen long made it known publicly he also the Male Democratic District Leader JosephDawn McEvoy Konig hopes to become a judge. An apparent for the 81st Assembly District, which is eyes of reformers, one Bronx politico sug- Proofreader play to make Cohen a judge last year was represented by his father. By day, Di- Proofreader gested. Judy Noy scuttled after media reports indicated nowitz is a special education teacher in Judy Noy Speculation the swap might hap- For Display Advertising the Bronx Democratic Party planned to Kingsbridge. 3URGXFWLRQ pen this year instead triggered in- 3URGXFWLRQ put former state Sen. Jeff Klein on the Though the campaign to succeed Co- NeilCall deMause Janet Geller at creased activity from the candidates Neil deMause court after his primary loss. Party boss hen will continue, the candidates will for the 11th Council District, which in- 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV(646) 581-0399 Marcos Crespo and other county offi- have to wait until their regularly sched- cludes Norwood, parts of Bedford Park, David5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV Greene, Adi Talwar cials vehemently denied any plan was in uled 2021 election to find out who will Kingsbridge, Riverdale, Fieldston, and SupportDavid Greene, Your Adi Talwar the works at the time. emerge victorious. Interns Woodlawn. Daniel Padernacht and Eric “Trying to put together the slate of “There is no guarantee the planets CommunityInterns Newspaper! Dinowitz revved up their campaigns de- Shayla Love, Paolo Mossetti, Justin McCallum, judges to represent the Democratic Party are going to line up perfectly that I can Shayla Love, Paolo Mossetti, Justin McCallum, spite the nearly two years left until the andThe ChelseaNorwood George News is a not-for-profi t in Bronx County is an art form,” Cohen work my last day as a city council mem- publicationand Chelsea and George relies upon the support of Democratic primary in June 2021. told the Norwood News ahead of this ber and then go to the courthouse,” Co- its advertisers and readers to produce a “If it comes this year, I’m going to be For display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. year’s convention. “There are a lot of con- hen said recently. “It may work out that quality community newspaper. To support ready; if it comes next year that would be For display advertising, call (718) 324-4998. stituencies that want to be represented on it’s a year earlier, it may work out it’s a your paper, become a member and receive a good,” Cohen told the Norwood News in the bench. It’s just not as simple as ‘you, year later. I don’t know.” subscription for one year. July 2018. That same month, Padernacht Support Your you, and you.’ It doesn’t always come to- Support Your and Dinowitz launched their campaigns. gether that way.” Judicial Convention CommunitySimply mail check Newspaper! or money order for $40 to: The belief inside Padernacht’s camp NorwoodCommunity News, 3400Newspaper! Reservoir Oval East, The Norwood News and other outlets The convention saw the nomination The Norwood NewsLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE- was the increased activity of the Dinow- Bronx,The Norwood NY 10467. NewsLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE- previously reported there was a plan of two candidates for two open seats on lication and relies upon the support of its itz campaign indicated the special elec- lication and relies upon the support of its afoot to nominate Cohen for a judgeship the Bronx Supreme Court and Guzman advertisers and readers to produce a quality tion was coming. Dinowitz’s father Jef- Norwoodadvertisers News and readersis not responsible to produce for a quality so Eric Dinowitz, a candidate to replace renominated to a second stint on the community newspaper. To support your paper, frey Dinowitz, is one of the top officials typographical errors. Opinions expressed in him and son of Assemblyman Jeffrey bench, further reflecting the demograph- community newspaper. To support your paper, in the Bronx Democratic Party and plays becomesigned letters a member and bylinedand receive columns a subscription represent Dinowitz, would have an easier path to ics of the borough. On primary day, each become a member and receive a subscription a role in selecting judicial nominees. forthe one sole year. opinion of the author and are not victory in a special election. The Bronx Assembly district votes on judicial dele- for one year. Another candidate, Dio Then, an- necessarily those of Mosholu Preservation Democrat County Party wanted to avoid nounced in recent weeks. Then currently (continued on page 18 ) SimplyCorporation mail check or Montefi or money ore orderMedical for Center.$40 the “appearance of impropriety” in the EditorialsSimply mail represent check or the money views order of the for editor $40 to:only. Norwood The newspaper News, 3400 reserves Reservoir the rightOval East, Bronx,to: Norwood NY 10467. News, 3400 Reservoir Oval East, toBronx, limit NYor refuse 10467. advertising it deems objectionable. Advertisements appearing Norwoodin this paper News cannot is not be responsible used without for typo - graphicaltheNorwood written errors.News permission isOpinions not responsible of theexpressed Norwood for intypo signed- Public and Community Meetings lettersNews.graphical andLetters errors. bylined to Opinionsthe columns editor expressed representare subject inthe tosigned sole condensationletters and bylined and editing.columns Writers represent should the sole opinion of the author and are not necessarily COMMUNITY BOARD 7 includeopinion theirof the affi author liation and or arespecial not necessarilyinterest if committee meetings are held on the following dates at 6:30 p.m. at 243 E. 204th thoseany. Anonymous of Mosholu lettersPreservation are not Corporations published those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations St.: Environment & Sanitation Committee meets on Sept. 3; Education, Youth & Libraries meets on Sept. 4; RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHSbut your name can be withheld upon - Traffic & Transportation Committee meets on Sept. 5; Housing, Land Use & Zoning Committee meets on resentrequest.RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS the views of the editor and/or publisher- Sept. 10; Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs Committee meets on Sept. 11; and Public Safety & Quality of 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 Life Committee meets on Sept. 12. For more information, call (718) 933-5650. Advertisementsor refuse advertising appearing it deems in this objectionable. paper cannot beMosholuAdvertisements used without Preservation theappearing written Corporation inpermission this paper is a of non-cannot Nor- The BEDFORD MOSHOLU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION meets on Sept. 4 at 8 p.m. at 400 E. Mosholu profibe used t support without corporation the written permissionof Montefi oreof Nor- woodMedical News. Center. Letters to the editor are subject Pkwy. S., Apt. B1. For more information, email [email protected]. towood condensation News. Letters and toediting. the editor Writers are should subject LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\to condensation and editing. Writers should LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ The 52nd Precinct’s next BUILD A BLOCK meeting, specifically for residents living in Fordham or Univer- Anonymous letters are not published but your sity Heights, takes place Sept. 5 at 6 p.m. at Fordham Hill Oval, Kensington Building, 2455 Sedgwick Ave. nameAnonymous can be letters withheld are if not requested. published but your name can be withheld if requested.

Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a QRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUHMosholu Preservation Corporation is a MedicalQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH Center. Medical Center. August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 3

Maybe you think you don’t qualify and enroll in a local food pantry homeowner, tenant and immigration or you don’t have time to wait on hold Attend a workshop about the New advisors, Norwood News, Bronx Com- Opinion or go downtown or you just need more York City online affordable housing munity Health Network, Montefiore information in your language? On lottery Women Infant and Children (WIC) Nu- Housing, Legal Tuesday, Sept. 17, many of those pro- • Enroll in the afford- tritional Program, Community Board grams are coming to your neighbor- able housing lottery 7, Laal, Northwest Bronx Community & Financial hood. The free Norwood Community • Complain about or praise local city and Clergy Coaltion (NWBCCC), local Resource Fair will be held in the com- services to Community Board 7 banks and other groups. Hablamos Es- Resources at munity space of Holy Nativity Church • Meet with an eviction prevention pañol! অনলাইেন বাংলা বা হেবন! located at 3061 Bainbridge Ave. from 2 specialist We hope you will attend the fair to to 7 p.m. Bangla & Spanish speakers • Talk with a legal advisor about your find out about programs that might be Your Doorstep! will be onsite. Hablarán español. tenant, homeowner, or immigration of benefit to you, your neighborhood Inquilinos de Norwood - Propi- What Can You Do at the Nor- issues and your family – no excuses - city etarios de Casas - Personas De la wood Community Resource Fair? • Learn how to lower your energy agencies, non-profits and local organi- Tercera Edad - Recursos Legales y • Seniors and people with disabilities costs zations will be in your neighborhood de Inmigración can freeze their rent if they qualify • Learn how pregnant women and new on Sept. 17! Call UNHP at (718) 933- নরউড টনাস - বািড়র মািলক - িসিনয়র (that’s right, no future rent increases) mothers can enroll in WIC – a mother/ 2539 to let us know you’re coming, find -আবাসন - আইন ী এবং ইি মে শন ি রেসাস • Homeowners can find out and enroll child food and health program out how to partner with us or for more By UNHP in one of the many reduced real estate information. Follow University Neigh- Have you heard about services that tax programs Co-sponsored by University Neigh- borhood on Facebook, Twitter, or Ins- might help when applying for that new • Seniors citizens can apply for a re- borhood Housing Program (UNHP), a tagram to get information about addi- apartment in a building being built duced fare MetroCard community-based group and the Legal tional partners and this event. down the street, reducing your prop- • Get your blood pressure checked and Aid Society, the event will host coun- This op-ed was jointly submitted erty taxes, or helping you save on bus find out about low-cost health insur- selors and staff from New York City by Catherine Clarke, Jumelia Abra- fare? It’s hard to keep up with available ance Housing Preservation and Develop- hamson, UNHP senior staff, and Oda programs – even if they might help you • Find out about programs serving the ment (HPD), NYC Finance, Part of the Friedheim, a Norwood resident and deal with important housing or finan- Bangladeshi community in Norwood Solution (POTS), West Bronx Housing, senior staff attorney at Legal Aid So- cial struggles. • Get screened for SNAP (food stamps) NYC Tenant Support Unit, Legal Aid ciety.

Let’s have a barbecue and let the Parks cilman Andrew Cohen (as per your Department clean up afterwards.” last issue) taken care of that five-year But when law enforcement has one problem yet? ,ETTERS4O4HE%DITOR hand tied (by the new decriminaliza- I am proud to have lived in the tion of the quality of life laws), and northwest Bronx for close to 40 years. I thus the other hand having tunnel am very proud to own a financial plan- vision, we have the potential to have ning practice in the hood (for 23 years) Political & Civic Retirement nally established in 1956, the East what I moved away from on Tremont and teach business and finance in lo- Well, your last “letter to the editor” 204th Street/Bainbridge Merchants Avenue in 1974: the burning fires, the cal institutions for close to 10 years. (“Keep Parkway Pristine”; Norwood Association. dirty streets, the lack of government I am even more humbled to have News, Vol. 32 No. 16 Aug 1-28) made my We now have homes all over our resources or services. been a community, political, and ap- mind up. side streets that are gone and 11-story The new Norwood, run by its new pointed leader in our hood as a former In the last 10 years, we have had a buildings taking their place, standing young leaders and neighbors, do not be- merchant president, former Commu- lot go wrong in our old neighborhoods next to the six-story buildings, many lieve in quality of life. They don’t even nity Board 7 member, and founder of a of Bedford Park, Norwood, or as I knew of them there since the1920s. know what it is. As they move into the local political nucleus. it, five decades ago, Bainbridge. But maybe most importantly, like it new hood they see bigger buildings, Which is the reason for this letter. We have had new residential and was stated in the last Letter to the Edi- dirt in the streets, barbecuing in every Thank you Bedford Park/Mosholu/ commercial rezoning on Webster Av- tor, these are not old neighbors, gener- available piece of grass. They think it’s Norwood. Its beautiful greenery, its enue, which now has, in 10 years, at ational neighbors, but new neighbors, normal. wonderful old neighbors, its beautiful least eight new buildings, more than many from other parts of other bor- And today’s new young leaders, eat-off-the-floor streets were amazing. 650 new units, over 1300 residents, and oughs; many just moving in within the despite trying hard, do not know the But it’s all gone now. only three pieces of commercial busi- last five to 10 years. old hood. They weren’t born yet! They It’s now over. And I will be commu- nesses. Old neighbors around here have al- think it’s good to have beer, music, and nity and politically retired. We now have a new Norwood mer- ways said, “Don’t move. Improve!” Our smokey-smoke parties in Van Cort- Anthony Rivieccio chant strip in place of the one origi- new neighbors say, “ Hey, there’s grass. landt [Park] until 4 a.m. Or has Coun- Bedford Park

Have a story for the Norwood News? Reach out us at (718) 324-4998 4 • August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER By DAVID GREENE This week we asked readers their thoughts on the Child Victims Act that became law in New York State, allowing victims to fi le civil cases against abusers upwards of 50 years from the time the abuse occurred.

REGEIS For 15 or 16 years I have been fi ghting to Of course it’s a good thing. If you think Of course it’s a terrible thing when I think it’s good that they passed it I think it just opens up a Pandora’s box. I amend case law. The legal system, when it about it, if you get molested, you need to someone is really assaulted. True victims because there’s a lot of child molestersCARE out think CENTER it keeps women, or anyone that has comes to victims, they’re more concerned seek justice. I don’t really care how long need to be compensated. They can go for here that people don’t know about.A And five starbeen facilitysexually assaulted providing or abused as a with defending the rights of the accused, it’s been. Twenty years, 30 years? Justice therapy; they can have some extra money. the way they do it is [by getting jobs at] the child or as an adult, in victim mode. I’m not who most of the time have actually needs to be served. Money is not the And if one dayREGEIS you can forgive those who Board of Education, through our churches,excellent a victim.care I don’t in the dwell onBronx it. It happened perpetrated acts of violence against an only way to complete total compensation, wronged you, that could be good too. it happens every day. I’m a witnessand to Westchesterand it’s over and doneareas with. People have animal or an individual or a group of but at least you get something for what John Palacio things like that, so I love this law because been brainwashed into thinking they’re individuals. I feel the laws have been too happened to you and what you went Norwood CARE CENTERit helps people who couldn’t do anything owed something. They need to seek help lax. Enough already. The laws have to through. You can never restore someone’s about it after a long time, and now they to get them to a place of forgiveness and have teeth. dignity for what you did to them, but they Personalizedcan actually care speak - up Skilled and come rehabilitationout and acceptance. - Professional staff Kay Cardona need to be compensated either way. A five startalk facility about it. But what happens providing when the Grace Lovaglio Pelham Gardens Jonathan Martey accuser has passed away. Like Jeffrey Allerton Bedford Park excellent careEpstein? in the Bronx William Roman and WestchesterFordham Heights areas

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T. 718-320-3700 F. 718-671-2554 www.regeiscarecenter.com August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 5 NEWS Finally BRIEFS Here Skateboard park formally By DAVID CRUZ opens at Williamsbridge Public Charge Suit Attorney General Letitia Oval, ending a 15-year James is suing the Trump Ad- Endeavor ministration’s Public Charge Rule that potentially denies im- By DAVID CRUZ and MICHAEL TURAY migrants a green card or visa if Skaters rejoiced at the opening of the the federal government deter- much-anticipated skateboard park in Nor- Photo by Sha-Nia Alston mines they will be taking advan- wood’s Williamsbridge Oval Park, a project NEW YORK CITY Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver (standing foreground left) holds tage of government entitlement many agreed had been a long time coming. up a skateboard shortly after the ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly opened skate- Mitchell Silver, Commissioner for the programs such as food stamps. board park at Williamsbridge Oval Park. He’s flanked by skateboarders eager to work New York City Department of Parks, led a James argues the rule not only on their skills, Councilman Andrew Cohen (seated center, with sunglasses) who al- ribbon cutting ceremony that included skat- would have short- and long-term located funds for the project, Bronx Parks Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa (seated ers who had advocated for the park from its next to Cohen), and Norwood Assemblyman (r). Doug Condit, a com- impacts on public health and the very beginning. munity activist (seated foreground center) helped spearhead the project’s revival. economy, but underhandedly tar- Even before the park was ceremoniously gets immigrants of color. “Quite opened on Aug. 27, skaters were already predecessor, Oliver Koppell, but when inter- of the project, causing the Parks Department simply, under this rule, more found zipping and speeding along the park’s est for the skateboard park fell in favor of a to re-start that phase. children will go hungry, more concrete slabs. Silver, reading off a list, said dog run, the project stalled. Towards the tail end of construction, an- families will go without medi- the park includes quarter pipes, half bowls, “I’m sure those youngsters today are other snag: an unreliable concrete job. Crews cal care, and more people will be and a manual pad. parents,” said Barbara Stronczer, chair of with L C Construction Consulting Corp. were living in the shadows and on the “I have no idea what I just described, but Community Board 7’s Parks Committee. “We forced to dig up a portion of the skateboard I’m sure it’s here in this park,” joked Silver, heard nothing more about it for years.” park to fix it, pushing the completion date streets,” said James. in his opening remarks. Doug Condit, a community activist, from winter to summer this year. The completion of the skateboard park would reignite the project once again, bring- “It’s rare that we now have a project de- Sexual Harass Law ends years of false starts and delays for a ing a contingent of skateboarders to Cohen’s layed,” said Silver, adding that the agency Takes Effect project valued at close to $1 million. Eusebio office. It eventually became the first project has learned from its past mistakes. “So, a lot Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed Baez, 29, a skateboarder who saw the project Cohen would allocate funds toward. Condit, of our skate parks, if you check our website, a bill that increases penalties through from the beginning, remembered who was present at the ribbon cutting, was they’re all on time, on budget moving for- against workplace sexual harass- heading to Councilman Andrew Cohen’s of- praised by Friends of Williamsbridge Oval ward.” ment and discrimination. The fice to finally get the project off the ground. Park activist, Betty Diana Arce, for serving Cohen had previously knocked the pro- bill will hold New York employers Cohen earmarked $750,000 towards the proj- as a mentor to the persistent skateboarders. cess. This time, he reserved criticism of the and its agencies accountable for ect in July 2014 with Mayor Bill de Blasio “You ask, why a skateboard park in the process, thanking the community for their all forms of sexual harassment throwing in another $227,000. Oval? Well, we’re out here in the Bronx, advocacy instead. The genesis of the project began even be- which I’m not sure whether you people know “The community was involved every and discrimination. This comes fore Cohen’s tenure, dating back to 2004 when it or not, it’s the least healthy county in the en- step of the way in making this project hap- after many advocates have been skateboarders had attended a Community tire state of New York,” said Condit in his re- pen, and it’s really just when things really fighting for a change for over Board 7’s Parks Committee meeting demand- marks. “The kids need activity. Young people come together that we get an amenity that a decade. In a statement, state ing such an amenity be built. need activity, and there’s no people to get it, in the community really wants, designed by Sen. Alessandra Biaggi said, “Fi- “This is more than a dream come true,” my opinion, than right here in the Oval.” the community, advocated for by the com- nally New Yorkers will not have said Baez, who eventually helped advise in But the project stalled significantly, par- munity, and I’m very thrilled and gratified to suffer the horrific, severe, or the design phase of the project. ticularly during the procurement phase that I [had] an opportunity to bring this to pervasive” standard which al- The plan was initially pitched to Cohen’s where the first contractor chosen bowed out fruition,” said Cohen. lowed workers to be abused for too long.” have to worry about previous mari- refused to be arrested for allegedly change to the IDNYC program, which Poe Cottage Gets $450K juana convictions after a Manhat- selling untaxed cigarettes. The firing would allow its users to renew their Bronx Borough President Ru- tan Supreme Court Justice ordered came after an NYPD trial judge rec- cards online instead of in person. ben Diaz Jr. allocated $450,000 in the sealing of the records. Sealing ommended Pantaleo be fired follow- Bitta Mostofi, who runs the Mayor’s capital funds for improvements the convictions will make it easier ing a weeks-long administrative trial. Office of Immigrant Affairs, which to Edgar Allen Poe Cottage. The for those convicted to apply for hous- “In carrying out the court’s verdict processes IDNYC cards, said the roll- funds will be earmarked for the ing, employment, and restore other in this case, I take no pleasure,” said out would happen in December if the installation of a roof and exterior rights. O’Neill. Pat Lynch, president of the rule is adopted. IDNYC is the city’s woodwork to the Poe Cottage in Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association, official identification card for New Fordham. Poe Cottage was once Daniel Pantaleo Fired criticized O’Neill’s decision to carry Yorkers and available to users as the home of famed scribe Edgar The officer involved in the fatal out the court’s recommendation, stat- young as 10 years old. The card also Allan Poe, who lived in the Bronx chokehold death of Eric Garner in ing “O’Neill chose politics over the offers discounted memberships to during the 1840s. 2014 was fired. NYPD Commissioner police officers he claims to lead.” cultural institutions across the city. Jim O’Neill ended the career of Daniel Another rule under consideration is Sealed Pot Convictions Pantaleo, the officer who had placed IDNYC Change Proposals allowing users as young as 10 years Several New Yorkers will not Garner in a chokehold after Garner The city is considering a rule old to apply for a card at school. 6 • August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News Worker Dies After Being Crushed in Norwood Building Collapse

By MICHAEL TURAY A building under construction at 94 E. 208th St. near Steuben Av- enue partially collapsed, leaving one worker dead and two injured. Police and fire crews flocked to the scene within minutes. The incident took place just before noon on Aug. 27. Multiple eyewitnesses recalled hearing a loud noise, but assumed it was a normal construction protocol. However, cries for help from the workers confirmed otherwise. “Three of them [workers] ran out. The initial person who told us to call 911, he had lacerations to the head, a lot of blood leak- ing down on his face. I think he was trying to assist whoever was trapped inside, to help him get out,” said Anika James, an em- ployee at Montefiore Hospital lo- cated several blocks up from the scene. Two other workers were taken to local hospitals for non-life threatening injures. It took FDNY firefighters about an hour to dig and find the body of the trapped worker, who was found dead under the rubble from severe injuries. Prior to it collapsing, neighbors could over- hear workers complaining about the durability of the scaffold. “It’s not safe, it’s really not safe. It’s too small of a space to try to cram everything. When walking past, you could hear Photos by David Cruz them this morning, they were A VIEW OF the partial collapse pictured above, that occurred at 94 E. 208th struggling to keep things in con- St. in Norwood where one worker at the building died. trol. I think they couldn’t,” said Dr. Violet Wallace, director of a THE DISTRAUGHT FAMILY, left, of the deceased worker following news of nearby church. the partial building collapse. “We were kind of scared be- cause we saw the bricks, they building is ever worth a and the speed at which the build- were crashing down,” added person’s life. We will con- ing had gone up. Wallace who was walking past tinue to investigate this “I call it negligence. They the building with two co-work- incident aggressively and didn’t have the required equip- ers as it collapsed. bring all appropriate en- ment for the job, you could see The workers had been about forcement actions against the metal was bent,” said Elisa three to four months in on the those responsible,” DOB Luna, a Norwood resident famil- project, as permits for the prop- said in a statement. iar with the construction site, of- erty were issued in May by the sonry blocks, causing it to col- The DOB has issued a full ten visiting her mom who lives city’s Department of Buildings lapse onto the second floor below, stop-work order for the project in a building directly across the (DOB). Building permits show ultimately trapping the worker and ordered the building owner street. “It’s hurtful. Somebody that workers were building a new who died. They also revealed to secure the site overnight. Pio- is dead because you couldn’t get four-story residential building that prior to today, no violations neer General Construction group the proper tools, because you with eight units. were reported to this construc- is listed as the current general couldn’t create a safer environ- A preliminary investigation tion site. contractor for the property. ment for these people to work in,” by the DOB determined that the “This was a preventable trag- Residents were left wondering said Luna. third floor of the building was edy and our hearts go out to the whether the site was safe enough Additional reporting by Sha- overloaded with concrete ma- family of the worker who died. No for workers, given what they saw Nia Alston and David Cruz. August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 7 Stop Work Orders Issued at 2 of 4 New Norwood Projects 8 • August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News CRIME FILE By DAVID CRUZ

Suspect Arrested in putting a 46-year-old victim in Cell Phone Theft 28 (pictured below), of Nor- seen wearing a dark T-shirt Jerome Ave. Crash a chokehold and then robbing The NYPD needs help iden- wood. He was last seen near and a backpack. Police say A Morrisania man faces a him. The victim had finished tifying a man (pictured below) Montefiore Hospital’s Moses the woman’s wallet contained litany of charges, including cashing a $200.00 check at the wanted for questioning in con- Campus at East 210th Street $250 and several credit cards driving while intoxicated, Pay-O-Matic check cashing nection to a stolen cell phone on Aug. 11. He is described and was stolen on July 11 just vehicular assault, and reck- business at 11 E. Gun Hill Rd., that happened at the Mosholu as black, standing at six feet, before 1 a.m. less endangerment, related and was then followed and station on board a #4 subway and about 160 pounds. He was to the death of a robbed in front of 3578 Jerome train heading downtown on last seen wearing an orange T- woman who was near a bus Ave. on July 24 just before Aug. 5 after midnight. The shirt and black pants. stop when she was hit. Police 10:30 p.m., according to police. victim, a 46-year-old woman, say Francisco Rosario drove The perpetrator came from said a man simply snatched his Nissan minivan south- behind, placed the victim in the phone from her hand and bound along Jerome Avenue a chokehold, took the money, took off. on Aug. 11 at around 10 p.m., and drove off in a vehicle. The mounted a sidewalk at the cor- suspect is described as His- ner of Bainbridge Avenue and panic, in his 20s, and last seen struck two people at the bus wearing a white T-shirt stop by the Woodlawn train station. One of them, Natasha Mar, was struck. She was later transported to St. Barnabas Hospital where she died. Rosa- Wallet Stolen rio was also charged with as- Police seek a man (pictured Anyone with informa- sault, failure to take a breath at right) wanted for question- tion on the above mentioned test, and reckless driving. ing in the theft of a woman’s crimes and missing person Missing Man wallet stolen in front of C&N is asked to call the NYPD’s Chokehold Robbery Police within the 52nd Pre- Liquor at 6 E. Gun Hill Rd. Crime Stoppers Hotline at The NYPD needs help iden- cinct have reported the disap- in Norwood a month ago. He (800) 577-TIPS. Are calls are tifying a man (pictured) seen pearance of Musa Camara, is described as black and last kept confidential. August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 9 10 • August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News Norwood Man Fatally Shot, Marking Sixth Homicide Within 52nd Precinct for 2019 By DAVID GREENE Police are looking for two gun- men wanted in a pair of unrelated killings along Bainbridge Avenue, taking place just nine days apart, marking the 5th and 6th homicides of the year for the 52nd Precinct. In the latest incident, police say that officers responded to a 911 call, reporting a male shot at 3:21 a.m. at Bainbridge and Rochambeau av- enues, near the entrance to Wil- liamsbridge Oval Park, on Aug. 25. Photo by David Greene EMS transported a man with A CANDLIGHT VIGIL is set up for Edgar one gunshot wound to the back. He Perez, who was fatally shot in Norwood in the early morning of Aug. 25. was rushed to Montefiore Medical Center, where he died a short time later. by garbage from windows and roof- Police would identify the victim tops and needed additional officers as Edgar Perez, 46, of Decatur Av- from the 48th and 50th precincts enue. Friends say he had attended as well as at least one helicopter, a baptism celebration at the Holy before order on the block was re- Nativity Episcopal Church and had stored. lived in the area for many years. Officers from the 52nd Precinct The church apparently rents out a quickly hung two wanted posters, one banquet hall for late night parties. featuring the victim and the other a Fatal shootings have happened surveillance photo of a dark Dodge along the stretch before. Across Charger, the apparent getaway ve- East 204th Street by Bainbridge Av- hicle used by the gunman. All of the enue, Michael Vermong was shot posters disappeared from the block THE CURTAIN SHOP and killed, allegedly by his friend within a day. & GENERAL STORE SINCE 1976 Jamel Burney, who was charged With Lagares’ death, the one block in his March 29, 2017 slaying. A de- stretch of East 196th Street, between cade ago, a store owner next to the Bainbridge and Briggs avenues have ALL TYPES OF CURTAINS church was shot and killed. now recorded three homicides in the PERSONALIZED SERVICE Nine days before the most recent last 12 months. shooting, about a half mile south On Dec. 10, Angel Reyes-Godoy, 17, CUSTOM BLINDS & SHADES on Bainbridge Avenue, police say was beaten and pushed in front of a Isael “Izzy” Lagares, 27, of Bedford passing ambulance along East 196th BY HUNTER DOUGLAS & GRABER Park, was shot outside of 2734 Bain- Street. Angel coincidentally lived in HOUSEWARE S & YARN bridge Ave. by East 196th Street in the building where Lagares was shot. the Fordham Manor section at 10:27 Police would later charge Mario SHOWER CURTAINS p.m. on Aug. 16. Almonte, 21, and Obeb Adames, 19, in TABLE LINENS One witness confirmed Lagares Angel’s death. Police said at the time crossed East 196th Street and col- that both men were members of the lapsed at the Bx34 bus stop. dreaded Trinitarios gang. WE OFFER A TOP QUALIT Y AND FRIENDLY EXPERIENCE THAT YOUR MOM WOULD EXPECT Lagares is believed to have been On Aug. 17, 2018 Eric Shaw, 55, ANY PURCHASE OF shot two times in the chest and once a resident on Briggs Avenue, was in the abdomen. He was rushed to slashed in the neck in broad daylight. St. Barnabas Hospital, where he The following day police arrested OFF was also declared deceased on ar- Travis Mason, 18, who lived in the SAVE $5 $20 rival. same building as Shaw. Mason is cur- ANY PURCHASE OF Several residents claim the block rently facing murder and manslaugh- is influenced by several gangs who ter charges. control the local drug trade. As Perez’s death marks the sixth ho- SAVE OFF officers from the 52nd Precinct micide within the 52nd Precinct and $ 10 $100 responded to Lagares’ shooting, current statistics now exceed last NOT COMBINABLE ONE COUPON PER PERSON ONE TIME ONLY EXPIRES 10/31/19 sources reported that several men year’s homicide rate, as there were refused to leave the crime scene. 541 MAIN STREET, NEW ROCHELLE, NY 10801 • 914-636-8794 just five killings during the same MON.-FRI. 9-6 • THURS. 9-8 • SAT. 9-5:30 • FIND US ONLINE @ CURTAINSHOP. COM Moments later officers were pelted time period last year. August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 11

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NCBH HOSTS ANNUAL BACK-TO-SCHOOL HEALTH FAIR Norwood residents came out on Aug. 21 for the annual Back-to-School Health Fair courtesy of NCBH. And it wasn’t just health- or school-related giveaways handed out at this event. Stakeholders were honored and there were numerous raffl es! Check out these photos by Miriam Quinones.

(L-R) COMMUNITY BOARD 7 member Betty Diana Arce, North Central Bronx Hospital executive director Cristina Contre- ras, Councilman Andrew Cohen, newly appointed Community Board 7 chair Emmanuel Martinez, state Sen. Gustavo Rivera, TEN-YEAR-OLD Miriam Cruz shows off the new bike she won Assemblyman Jeff Dinowitz, Deputy Borough President Mar- in the raffl e at NCBH’s Back-to-School Health Fair. ricka Scott-McFadden, and Community Board 7 district man- ager Ischia Bravo pose for a shot at the annual Back-to-School Health Fair hosted by North Central Bronx Hospital.

THESE KIDS SHOW off their new bikes and bookbags courtesy of NCBH’s Back-to-School Health Fair. IT’S NEVER TOO early to learn CPR as this young girl demon- strates at NCBH’s Back-to-School Health Fair.

THESE KIDS ARE all smiles as they show off their IT’S NOT JUST about staying healthy. It’s also about staying safe, and bookbags they received at NCBH’s Back-to-School these kids pick up some of those pointers from (left to right) 52nd Pre- Health Fair. cinct anti-crime Offi cer Frank Pacella, and Community Affairs offi cers Stephen Echevarria and Crystal Reveron. August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 13

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Come in and Ask our doctors for more information 14 • August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News PS 280 Bronx Dance PS 94 Address: Kings College Academy School Back to 3202 Steuben Ave. Address: Public School Grades: K-8, Special 3617 Bainbridge Ave. Address: Education Grades: 6-8 School in 3530 Kings College Pl. Admissions Process: Admissions Process: Grades: K-5 Zoned School Zoned School Admissions Process: Student Body: 901 Student Body: 276 Norwood Zoned School Principal: James Weeks Principal: Sandra Sanchez Student Body: 1,210 Parent Coordinator: By MICHAEL TURAY Parent Coordinator: Principal: Diane Nyesvann Rodriguez The onslaught of homework and pop Daprocida-Sesin Gabriel Santiago quizzes will soon be on the agenda for Afterschool activities: Parent Coordinator: Afterschool activities: young people as the first day of school Music, visual arts, chess, Hip-Hop Dancing, approaches. Students are scheduled Miriam Seminario and dance LEGO Robotics, ELA to return to the classroom on Sept. 5, Main office phone Lab, and more which means parents should double Main office phone number: number: (718) 405-6360 Main office phone check their school supply lists and pre- (718) 405-6345 ferred bookbag requests. number: Thousands of students in the Nor- (718) 515-0410 wood area are preparing to attend one of the 11 local schools in School District DeWitt Clinton 10. School officials have taken baby Bronx School for steps to chip away at its overcrowding High School JHS 80 issue. A 2016 capital projects report Address: Isabel Rooney School Continuous Learners by the School Construction Authority 100 W. Mosholu Pkwy, S. Address: Address: (SCA), a city construction entity tasked Grades: 9-12 149 E. Mosholu Pkwy. N. 3177 Webster Ave. to build more seats, stated 5,692 seats Student Body: 1,666 Grades: 6-8 Grades: K-4, Special are needed to fix it. The city has allo- Education cated some of the funds needed for more Principal: Pierre Obre Admissions Process: seats and construction for more space Parent Coordinator: Zoned School Admissions Process: is under way for several campuses in Ines Carino Student Body: 624 District 75 School the district. School Specialization: Principal: Emmanuel Student Body: 351 The Norwood News has assembled a Small Learning Polanco Principal: Janine list of schools in the area for any read- Tubiolo ers who might be unfamiliar with their Communities (SLCs) or Afterschool activities: child’s school. Contact information, personalized education Drama, screenwriting, Main office phone student population, graduation rates, Graduation Rate (within spoken word, and field number: and other facts about the schools can 4 years): 46% trips (718) 696-6640 be found in this compilation. The num- Main office phone Main office phone bers were obtained from the National Center for Education Statistics and the number: number: New York City Department of Educa- (718) 543-1000 (718) 405-6300 tion. Thanks to the Free Meals for All ini- tiative launched in 2017, all New York PS/MS 20 P.O. PS 56 City public school students are eligible George J. Werdann, III Norwood Heights Bronx Community for free breakfast and lunch. An appli- Address: Address: Charter School cation must be filled out here https:// 3050 Webster Ave. 341 E. 207th St. www.myschoolapps.com/Application. Address: Grades: Pre-K through 8 Grades: K-5 3170 Webster Ave. Admissions Process: Admissions Process: Grades: K-8 Zoned School Zoned School Admissions Process: FOLLOW US ONLINE Student Body: 1,098 Student Body: 693 Charter lottery WWW.NORWOODNEWS.ORG Principal: Carla Ling Principal: Maureen Student Body: 410 Parent Coordinator: O’Neill Principals: Martha Jael Ravenell, Izabela Parent Coordinator: TO REPORT A Andrews, Sasha Wilson Kaczmarek Carmen Garcia Main office phone STORY TO THE School Specialization: Main office phone number: NORWOOD NEWS, Professional number: (718) 696-6440 CALL US AT Development (718) 920-1100 718-324-4998 Main office phone number: (718) 515-9370 August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 15 $46M Annex in the Works for Kingsbridge Heights School By MICHAEL TURAY “As you know District 10 is an An 18-wheeler truck beeps overcrowded district especially as it slowly backs into a con- when it comes to elementary struction lot at 2751 Jerome Ave. school seats. This is part of what “Danger zone, hard hat area,” we’re doing to address over- reads one sign as two men with crowding in the district and to bright orange helmets urge pe- provide more seats,” said Ortiz destrians to stay put as the in a phone interview with Nor- truck moves onto the grounds wood News. “We just wrapped of P.S. 340. Above, a Woodlawn- up the 2015-2019 Capital Plan bound #4 train rumbles past to and the SCA funded 2,948 new its next destination. Across the seats for District 10 during the street a noisy retaining wall job FY’s 2015-2019 period,” said Or- is also underway. tiz. This project however, is Along with the annex at P.S. strictly for the kids, as a Kings- 340, an annex will also be built bridge Heights elementary for the Tim Dwight School (P.S. school is set to expand. 33) at 2424 Jerome Ave. for Sep- P.S. 340 will get more space, as tember 2021 and a brand new 478 a new four-story annex equipped seat elementary school is antici- with a so-called gymnatorium pated to be built at 2355 Morris is set to be built by September Photo by Michael Turay Ave. for September 2023. 2021. The move to extend its AN 18-WHEEL truck backs into the construction site for a new annex at PS 340. “We just started the fiscal current campus is a product of years 2020-2024 capital plan. We the Universal Physical Educa- Department of Education (DOE) Community District 10 ele- have allocated funds for an addi- tion Initiative first introduced are working together to ac- mentary schools are notoriously tional 3,036 seats across District by Mayor Bill De Blasio in June commodate approximately 200 overcrowded classrooms. Kevin 10. Anytime that we provide 2017. schools that lack “adequate Ortiz, manager of external af- space and new seats and provide The city’s School Construc- physical education space” fairs for the SCA, mapped out a good learning environment tion Authority (SCA) and city through the initiative. The goal how the city has been working for our students, it’s a win-win of the initiative looks to “ensure on this issue. for everyone,” said Ortiz. all students have access to ap- Bedford Park propriate physical education space by 2021,” according to Elementary School the ’s ST. Address: management report. 3177 Webster Ave. The $46 million annex will BRENDAN'S Grades: Pre-K through 4 include 17 new classrooms, a Student Body: 463 reading room, a project room, SCHOOL a new gymnasium, an exercise APPLYCATHOLICSCHOOLSNY.ORG Principal: Carolyn Heredia room, a new library, a medical FOSTERING Main office phone suite, additional staff rooms, SPIRITUAL, 268 East 207th Street number: (718) 696-6440 a community room, and a new CULTURAL, AND Bronx, NY 10467 718-653-2292 cafeteria with a kitchen for the PHYSICAL [email protected] Kindergarten through fifth GROWTH StBrendanSchoolBronx.org grade school. The school had PS 168 an enrollment of 628 students UPK4 to 8th Grade - Music, Art, and Computer Enrichment - Basketball, Drama Club, Ultimate Frisbee, Choir, Bell Chorus Address: for the 2018-19 school year. The philosophy of St. Brendan’s School is to provide a quality 3050 Webster Ave. The new annex will be a Catholic education so that each child can develop his/her full Grades: Pre-K through 12 change of scenery for locals, human potential. We place the teachings of the Catholic faith at the Student Body: 515 who have seen their fair share core of the curriculum so that religious values permeate all subject Principal: Maureen of construction at this location areas. We continue to welcome all who seek and appreciate a value- on Jerome Avenue between E. centered, quality education. Fullerton 196th Street and Morris Ave- Parent Coordinator: Cesar nue. “I used to take my neph- Vasquez ews here all the time to play Main office phone basketball way back when they number: (718) 585-2100 had hoops set up,” said Mari- lyn Phillips, a passerby who stopped to take a look at the Sources: The National Center demolition site. ”I’m glad they for Education Statistics, the are expanding these schools New York City Department of for more students to enroll in Education, and Great Schools. this area,” she said. 16 • August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News BMCA Receives $10K Grant, Post-Dated 2020

By DAVID CRUZ group of volunteers committed to sus- And MICHAEL TURAY taining a quality standard of living The Bedford Mosholu Community for the Bedford Park community. Resi- Association (BMCA) received quite the dents and volunteers who serve on an financial bump from their local assem- executive board gather the first Mon- blywoman. day of every month (except during the Assemblywoman Nathalia Fernan- summer) to assess the current state of dez, whose 80th Assembly District par- the northwest Bronx neighborhood. tially covers Bedford Park, gave BMCA Although the funding won’t be avail- a $10,000 allocation. The group was one able until 2020, Stronczer and her team of three organizations—including the are already anticipating what can be Neighborhood Asso- done with the endowment. ciation and the Allerton Avenue Home- “We’re excited and we definitely owners & Tenants Association--falling will have to sit down as an executive within Fernandez’s district to receive committee to exercise a few options. a separate grant in the same amount. We certainly hope to use it for neigh- “These organizations have brought borhood beautification. We have Mo- service and attention to our neighbor- sholu Parkway running right through hood for collectively over 40 years,” our area, we have plenty of trees that said Fernandez. “They have given us need tree guards and want to put some different programs and events such plantings around,” said Stronczer. as neighborhood beautification, civic “Right now we’re being hit in that area engagement, and programs for our se- by overdevelopment, we’re losing many niors.” of our private homes to developers and Barbara Stronczer, BMCA’s fifth we’re fighting that as an association,” and longest-serving president, was added Stronczer. thrilled to receive the state funds, a Fighting off major redevelopment rarity for the group. projects, due to Webster Avenue rezon- “The Bedford Mosholu Community ing, will always remain an emphasis of Association has been in existence for BMCA as well as reshaping of Mosholu over 40 years, we cover the Bedford Parkway. However, with some new al- Park area and some of Norwood, and located funds on the horizon, the year meet once a month. I want to thank 2020 is promising for the civic associa- [Nathalia] Fernandez for this grant,” tion. said Stronczer, flanked by other group “Thank you again for all your dedi- representatives and Fernandez inside cated service to your neighborhood the assemblywoman’s office on Aug. and this community, I look forward to 20. seeing what better projects, and just in BMCA was founded in 1975 as a general good things to come,” said Fer-

Photo by Michael Turay ASSEMBLYWOMAN NATHALIA FERNANDEZ (at podium) announces a $10,000 al- location for the Bedford Mosholu Community Association, represented by Barbara Stronzer (2nd from right, holding check). August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 17 18 • August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News With Dems Nominating Three to Bronx Women Candidates Look to Make History Supreme Court Bench, At 15th Congressional District Race Cohen Stays Put By DAVID CRUZ (continued from page 2) gates, who are then sent to the convention And JOSEPH KONIG to vote on nominees for the court. There It was only recently that the Bronx were no contested judicial delegate elec- began to see a gender shift in represen- tions in the Bronx this year, according to tation on the legislative front, with more the state board of elections. Guzman was first elected to the city’s women representing districts at all lev- civil court in 1998 before winning her seat els of government. on the Bronx Supreme Court in 2006. She Last year, the borough elected state served as president of the Puerto Rican Bar Association, the Latino Judges As- Sen. Alessandra Biaggi to replace Jeff sociation, and president of the Supreme Klein while Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Court Justices Association of the City of became the first woman to represent New York. Pitt, one of the two newcomers the Bronx/ 14th Congressional to the court, served as a law clerk for the Supreme Court and the chairperson of the District. Nathalia Fernandez and Kar- Black Bar Association of Bronx County. ines Reyes were also elected to represent She also chaired Community Board 10’s their Assembly districts in 2018, dou- Youth Services Committee and worked bling the number of women in the Bronx for the Legal Aid Society’s Criminal De- fense Division for seven years. Pitt came Assembly Delegation. to the Bronx from Guyana as a child and Melissa Mark-Viverito, the former Photo courtesy Marlene for the Bronx campaign website/Melissa Mark-Viverito Facebook Page told Caribbean Life in 2017, “Being Guya- Speaker of the New York City Council, nese is one of the most important parts of (L-R) MARLENE CINTRON, president of the Bronx Overall Economic Development and Marlene Cintron, president of the my identity.” Corporation, and former New York City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito are Before being appointed an acting jus- Bronx Overall Economic Development vying for the 15th Congressional District seat. tice last year, Higgit worked as the chief Corporation, look to continue that trend elected nearly 30 years ago. For a time, ala, in the 2017 race for 8th Council Dis- court attorney for the Bronx Supreme as each vies for the 15th Congressional Court and has worked for the New York Serrano and Cintron lived in the same trict. Ayala won. District seat. It’s a race that’s now seen court system since 2002. New York’s Su- Grand Concourse apartment building. She also encouraged Bronx Demo- preme Court judges serve 14-year terms eight other Democrats open a campaign With more women living in the Bronx cratic leadership to back a female can- and are constitutionally prohibited from committee. than men, Cintron believes a female didate in the special election to replace serving past the age of 70. Despite residing in Manhattan’s El Four civil court judge candidates also voice is certainly needed in the nation’s Maria del Carmen Arroyo after the 17th Barrio, Mark-Viverito hopes to differ- ran unopposed in the June primary. They capital where the future of female repro- Council District representative retired will be on the Democratic ballot in No- entiate herself from the pack by empha- ductive rights has taken center stage. in 2015. Instead, they backed eventual vember, and are likely to win given the sizing her “track record of success” and “It’s important that we be repre- victor . dominance of the Democratic party in the showing that she will be a fighter for the Bronx. The candidates are Michael Frish- sented by somebody who’s going to move “I told [Crespo] the count of women district in Washington, D.C. From 2006 man, Matthew Raso, John A. Howard-Al- the women’s agenda forward and not in the Council was diminishing and that garin, and Jessica I. Bourbon. to 2017, Mark-Viverito represented the bring them back to the dark ages,” said they should really work hard to iden- Frishman is a court attorney for Guz- 8th Council District, which was geo- Cintron. tify a woman to replace” Arroyo, Mark- man and received his law degree from graphically split between her home turf University of Miami School of Law. He’s Mark-Viverito feels similarly. One of Viverito said. “It all falls on deaf ears.” in East Harlem and the South Bronx. heavily involved in the Thurgood Mar- Cintron and Mark-Viverito’s opponents, Despite Mark-Viverito’s protestations on shall Junior Mock Trial Competition, “We’re living in a very fragile mo- Councilman Rev. Ruben Diaz Sr., is a the party doing little for women, it did coaching P.S. 71 to three straight cham- ment in our democracy,” Mark-Viverito pionships. Frishman is also a member strong opponent of abortion. Bronx Dem- back Fernandez and Reyes. told the Norwood News. “The constitu- of the Ben Franklin Democratic Reform ocratic Party boss and Assemblyman Cintron was appointed to her latest Club, the northwest Bronx political club ents of this district, of the Bronx, of this Marcos Crespo has voted against bills post by Diaz Jr. The borough president’s closely associated with the elder Dinow- city are really under attack under this protecting women’s reproductive rights, father, Diaz Sr., is himself a candidate itz. administration. And really, our very ex- Raso is a principal law clerk for Judge including a bill that codified Roe v. Wade for the 15th Congressional District seat istence is under threat.” Mitchell Danziger, a Bronx civil court in New York earlier this year. and has a serious shot at winning. On justice. He also previously served on For Cintron, deciding to explore a “Why should men be telling me what Aug. 14, Diaz Sr. took partial credit for Community Board 11 and is a prominent run was easy: she believes none of the to do with my body? It defies logic,” Mark- landing Cintron her current gig. LGBTQ member of the Bronx Democratic declared candidates are suited to repre- Party. Viverito said when asked about Crespo “I have the unique skill of having sent the district. A longtime chair of Community Board and Diaz Sr. “To have anyone running people working for me, such as Marlen 4’s Parks Committee, Howard-Algarin “We have to get this right. Whoever in a Democratic primary that does not Cintron, [state senator] Luis Sepulveda, is an associate counsel for Con Edison. becomes our member is going to be our support [women’s reproductive rights] and Marcos Crespo coming out of my of- Previously he worked for the Manhattan member for a bit of time,” said Cintron law firm Bamundo, Zwal & Shemerhorn, should be dismissed outright. It’s not fice with my recommendation” for their in a telephone interview with the Nor- LLP. within the core values of the Democratic current positions, Diaz Sr. tweeted. “Not Bourbon is an assistant district at- wood News. “We can’t afford to send to Party. It’s a real concern. Its highly of- too bad for a black Puerto Rican with a torney at the Bronx District Attorney’s Congress someone who has no intent fensive to me, as a woman.” kinky hair and a broken English!” office. While Frishman and Raso will be to stay there and do the hard work. We running countywide, Bourbon and How- Supporting women for public office Cintron shot back with a tweet read- have to send somebody there that is re- ard-Algarin will be running in each of is something of a sticking point for Mark- ing, “Why does it seem that behind ev- the Bronx’s two municipal court districts. ally and truly looking to be a Congress Viverito and Bronx Democrats. Party ery successful woman, there’s a man Bourbon will be running in District 1, person.” which extends from Riverdale to Mott leaders, sans Borough President Ruben trying to take credit for her accomplish- Cintron is a lifelong resident of the Haven and includes Norwood. District 2, Diaz Jr., backed Assemblyman Robert ments?” where Howard-Algarin will be running, district, which remains the country’s Rodriguez over Mark-Viverito’s pre- “I’ll be sure to send you a thank you encompasses the eastern half of the bor- poorest congressional district after the ferred successor, former aide Diana Ay- card from DC!” Cintron added. ough from Wakefield to Soundview. current seat holder, Jose Serrano, was August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 19

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Eye Health: Tips to Remember

By PAULETTE GIAMBALVO, MPH, CHES doctor can help a patient determine We don’t always think about our if contact lenses is right for them. If eyes when we think about health, but wearing contact lenses, the Centers for the months highlighting eye health Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) awareness, such as Low Vision Aware- recommends the following habits: ness Month in February, Contact Lens Health Week in August, and Diabetic • Wash hands with soap and water and Eye Disease Awareness Month in No- dry them with a clean cloth before vember, reminds us to also focus on the touching lenses organ that helps us see the world. • Don’t sleep with lenses in, unless a The National Eye Institute (NEI), doctor prescribes them to be worn dur- part of the National Institutes of ing sleep Health, says there are many things • Keep water away from contact lenses one can do for their eye health. First, by not showering or swimming with a full eye exam each year can look for them inserted both vision problems and eye diseases. • Replace contact lens cases at least These exams are also important to once every three months, and rinse find eye conditions that develop with cases with contact lens solution, not age. In addition, healthy habits, such water, for storage as eating right and not smoking, are key. Also, allowing eyes to rest from In addition, the CDC recommends the phone and computer every day, as carrying a back-up pair of glasses with well as washing hands often, are good a current prescription. tips to follow. For more information about eye Good care of contact lens and health, visit the NEI website at h tt p : / glasses is also important for eye nei.nih.gov or call (301) 496-5248. health. There are many different types of contact lenses, such as soft Paulette Giambalvo is director of As- and hard lenses, disposable lenses, sociate Wellness at Montefiore Health and extended wear lenses. An eye System. Proclamation for Monte’s Women’s Health Institute

Photo courtesy Montefi ore Health System NURSES, DOCTORS, AND breastfeeding advocates at the Montefi ore Institute for Women’s Health received a proclamation from Bronx Borough Deputy Presi- dent Marricka Scott-McFadden during Breastfeeding Awareness Month on Aug. 13. Congrats! August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 21 Woodlawn’s Latest Addition to: The Knollwood Mausoleum Pre-planning, Pre-Construction Discounts Are Now Available

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Planning ahead for burial needs is one of the greatest gifts a person can give. At Woodlawn, we can discuss your needs and personalize a plan that provides peace of mind to you and your family.

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Call today for more information and to request your free copy of the “My Life” planning guide, an invaluable resource for organizing and Call for your FREE PDNLQJ\RXUÀQDOZLVKHVNQRZQ “My Life” Planning Guide. 718.920.0500 www.TheWoodlawnCemetery.org

4199 Webster Ave., Bronx, NY 10470 22 • August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES

Back-to-School Health Fair Youth-led Farmer’s Market A free back-to-school health The Norwood Youthmar- fair is scheduled on Sept. 4 from ket is open Thursdays from 10 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at NYC Health a.m. to 5 p.m. at the corner of + Hospitals/Jacobi, 1400 Pel- East Gun Hill Road and DeKalb ham Pkwy. S., at the Pirate Ship Avenue through Nov. 11. Cash, Playground at Building 8 Court- SNAP/EBT, debit/credit, yard. Free back-to-school sup- FMNP checks, and Health plies, music, and giveaways Bucks are accepted. will be on hand. Anyone inter- ested in signing up for afford- Crime Victims Support able health insurance can do Crime Victims Support Ser- so. For more information, call vices, a 501(c)3 group at 1138 Pitrina Moseley at (646) 335-8645. Neill Ave., offers victims help in navigating the criminal Free Paper Shredding justice system. Free confiden- Shred sensitive paperwork at tial services include claim as- a free shredding event happening sistance, case follow-up, crisis on Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. counseling, and victim advo- at the Office of Assemblyman cacy. The group accepts dona- Jeff Dinowitz at 3107 Kingsbridge tions. For more information, Ave. For more information, call call (718) 823-4925. Dinowitz’s office at (718) 796-5345 or email dinowitzj@nyassembly. Constituent Services gov. State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi provides constituent services Census Jobs at Community Board 7, 229-A E. The U.S. Census is hiring in- 204th St., every second Thurs- dividuals for join its 2020 Cen- day of the month from 11 a.m. sus Team to help with the Cen- to 4 p.m. For more information, sus’ official count. To apply, visit call Community Board 7 at 2020census.gov/jobs or call (855) (718) 933-5650 or Biaggi’s office 562-2020. at (718) 822-2049.

Community Resource Fair Accompanying the Elderly Norwood seniors, tenants Volunteer to visit the elderly WE ARE HIRING! and homeowners are invited to once a week through the city this free event co-sponsored by Department of Aging’s Friendly University Neighborhood Hous- Visiting Program of Neighbor- The Board of Elections in the City of New York is hiring Poll Workers to serve at ing Program (UNHP) and Legal hood SHOPP. Volunteers donate poll sites across New York City. Become an Election Day Worker and you can Aid Society on Sept. 17 from 2 their time to accompany the el- earn up to $2,800 for completing the training course, passing the exam and working ten Election Days. to 7 p.m. at Holy Nativity Epis- derly once a week for an hour copal Church, 3061 Bainbridge as a means of improving their ELECTION INSPECTOR INTERPRETER Ave. Free housing, financial, le- mental health. Volunteers will REQUIREMENTS REQUIREMENTS gal and health services and in- need to undergo a background • Registered voter residing in the City of • A permanent U.S. resident over 18 years of age New York and a resident of New York City formation from eight non-profits check and commit six months • Enrolled in the Democratic or • Fluent in English and the interpreter’s language and two city agencies. There will to the program. For more infor- Republican party • Spanish interpreters needed in all boroughs be a workshop by New York City mation, call 311. • Able to read and write English • Chinese interpreters needed in Manhattan, Housing Preservation and Devel- Brooklyn & Queens DUTIES • Korean, Hindi and Bengali interpreters needed opment about the affordable hous- Right to Counsel • Prepare the poll site for voters in Queens ing lottery. Contact UNHP at (718) Right to Counsel (RTC)— • Assist voters during the voting process For Hindi Interpreters: Please note on your application if you can also speak Punjabi. • Close the poll site 933-2539 to RSVP/partner, or for which assigns a free attorney • Does not have to be a registered voter • Canvass and report election results more information. Resources will to those sued for eviction in • Assist other poll workers as needed DUTIES be available in English, Spanish, housing court and in NYCHA • Assist non-English speaking voters by translating TRAINING and Bangla. termination of tenancy hear- voting information into covered languages অনলাইেন বাংলা ব া হেবন! • All Inspectors must attend a training class during the voting process ¡Hablarán español! ings and who are income eli- and pass the exam TRAINING gible—is available to tenants • All Interpreters must attend a training class Chorus Rehearsals who live in Bronx zip codes and pass the exam Open rehearsals for The 10457, 10467, and 10468. If a ten- Riverdale Choral Society are ant is not income-eligible, they HOURS/LOCATION scheduled for Sept. 4 at 7:30 have the right to a one-off legal FOR PRIMARY/GENERAL ELECTION p.m. at Christ Church River- consultation or advice session. • 5:00 a.m. until the polls are closed and results reported, which will be after 9:00 p.m. • Must be willing to travel within the borough for assignment to a poll site dale, 5040 Henry Hudson Pkwy. Tenants facing eviction or ha-

9 EARLY VOTING DAYS at West 252nd Street. Attendees rassment from management • Please visit website for detailed hours and dates will be practicing Aaron Cop- can call Nova Lucero at the • Must be willing to travel within the borough for assignment to a poll site land’s “In the Beginning,” and Northwest Bronx Community HOW TO APPLY R a lph Vau g h a n Wi l l i a m s’ “ F a n - & Clergy Coalition for support Visit nyc.electiondayworker.com to apply. If you have any questions, please call: 866-VOTE-NYC tasia on Christmas Carols.” at (917) 952-5494. (866-868-3692). TTY Number 212-487-5496 August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 23

FOUR YEARS TO LAST A LIFTETIME

THE ACADEMY OF M O U N T S T . URSULA

For over 163 years, AMSU has been offering an exceptional Ursuline education to young women in grades 9-12. We challenge students to respond to the call to scholarship, leadership and service. All lessons and activities are infused with the values of Catholic education, rooted in the Gospels.

AMSU remains strongly committed to its programs in Academics, Arts and Service. Academics: The Classes of 2018 and 2019 earned nearly 40 million in academic scholarships, and 100% of them were accepted to college. Arts: Classes in visual arts, music, theater and media are required. Service: Each student must complete at least 10 hours of service annually. We encourage all of our young women to be leaders in society, and that’s exactly what they become! 24 • August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News Classifi eds Professional Directory

COMPUTER SERVICES

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BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

LIVE A BETTER LIFE. Go to frendzhelpingfrendz.com. Steve Dunckley, Member ID# BC02646. ANNIVERSARY EVENT

The Bedford Park Congregational Church invites you to its 130th anniversary concert and dinner on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019. Back by popular demand: Sergey Pobedinski (guitar and vocals) and Ludmila Fesenko (vocals). The concert will be at 3:30 p.m., followed by a delicious catered dinner in our hall. Tickets $40. Please contact Reverend Dr. Christopher Ponnuraj for tickets (718) 367-8996.

WWW.NORWOODNEWS.ORG August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 25

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NYC Care, the key to the City’s health care, is a To learn more and to enroll, call no- or low-cost health care access program 1-646-NYC-CARE (1-646-692-2273). offered by NYC Health + Hospitals to New Visit nyccare.nyc Yorkers who do not qualify for or cannot afford health insurance.

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NORWOOD NEWS FULL PAGE 4-COLOR AD TRIM: 8.75 IN. W x 11.5 IN. H 26 • August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News

Compiled by JUDY NOY EDITOR’S PICK Freebies at the Oval Williamsbridge Oval (info: (718) 543-8672) presents the following free events:

Aug. 30 from 11 a.m. to noon - Puppet Show – Bessie’s Big Shot

Aug. 31 at 8:30 p.m. - Outdoor fi lm – “Uncle Drew” File photo by Miriam Quinones YOUR LAST HURRAH before the summer unoffi cially ends could be a movie night Onstage Events at Williamsbridge Oval. Check out what’s playing in our Editor’s Pick.

Woodlawn Cemetery holds free outdoor Bronx NYC Parks Department presents concert featuring Boricua Legends free Flag Football for kids ages 9 to supplies while supplies last. For more 1 to 4 p.m. including Monday, Sept. 2. performing the music of Queen of Salsa, 17. Instructional Series through Sept. 7; information, call (914) 309-8494 or visit For more information and a detailed Celia Cruz and other Latin American League from Aug. 31 through Sept. 19; www.nyccall.org. schedule, call (718) 817-8700. artists, Sept. 15 from 3 to 5 p.m., rain Citywide Championships, Nov 2; and or shine. Bring chair or blanket; chairs Girls Invitational Tournament, Nov. 11. Run for a Cause, Woodlawn’s 13th The Museum of Bronx History, 3266 will not be provided. Bags are subject For more information, locations, and annual 5k, takes place on Sept. 14 at Bainbridge Ave., presents exhibition, to search. The Celia Cruz and Pedro details, call (718) 430-1824. 10 a.m. Registration is at Healy Field The Bronx Goes to the Movies, through Knight mausoleum will be open for at 8:30 a.m. ( East Oct. 6. For more information, call (718) viewing from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the Back-to-School Tournament, and Kepler Avenue). Proceeds will 881-8900. Woodlawn Conservancy Trolley will sponsored by NYCCAL and New Life of support Yonkers Partners in Education escort passengers to and from the NYC takes place Aug. 31 from 10 a.m. Foundation and National Alliance on The Museum of Bronx History, 3266 concert. Registration is required. For to 1 p.m. at Devoe Park, West 188th Mental Illness (NAMI). Entry fees: $25/pre Bainbridge Ave. (208th Street), presents more information and tickets, call (718) Street. Events include 3 on 3 basketball race until Sept. 13; $30/day of. For more A History of the Bronx Latino, ongoing. 920-1470 or visit www.WoodlawnEvents. tournament, 3 point shootout, skills information and to register, visit www. Hours: Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. org. competition and more. Free school woodlawnrunforacause.org. and Sundays 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call (718) 881-8900. Council Member Andrew Cohen, Assemblyman Jeff Dinowitz, State Senator Alessandra Biaggi, and AARP Library Events present free Paper Shredding Event, to safely shred personal and confi dential Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge documents, Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. to Rd., presents for teens/young adults: 2 p.m., at the offi ce of Dinowitz, 3107 fi lm: Aug. 30 at 4 p.m. Adults can attend: Kingsbridge Ave. For more information, Computer Basics at 1 p.m.: Aug. 29 and call (718) 796-5345. Sept. 5; Microsoft Word for Beginners: Sept. 12 at 1 p.m.; and fi lm: “The Boy , a Bronx oasis at 675 W. in the Striped Pajamas,” Sept. 7 at 2:30 252nd St. in Riverdale, offers Family Art p.m. For more information, call (718) 579- Projects: Shadow Play, to create art, 4244/46/57 or visit www.nypl.org. Sept. 1; and Herds, Schools and Bevys, to explore how animals exist and work Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., together and to create animal puppets, offers for children: Toddler Storytime Sept. 7 and 8; both in the WH House at 11 a.m.: (ages 18 months to 3 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Grounds admission is years), interactive stories, action songs, free until noon Tuesdays and Saturdays fi ngerplays, and crafts, Sept. 5, 9 and 12; all year. For more information and a and for ages 5 to 12: Crafty Fridays at schedule of events including tours and 3 p.m.: crafts, Aug. 30 and Sept. 6; and walks, call (718) 549-3200. STEM: Kids Science at 3 p.m.: Reaction, Sept. 3 and 10. Adults can enjoy: Knitting Circle: Thursdays at 3 p.m. For Exhibits more information, call (718) 882-8239.

NY Botanical Garden presents its largest Jerome Park Library, 118 Eames Pl. (near exhibition ever, Brazilian Modern: Kingsbridge Road), offers for adults: The Living Art of Roberto Burle Computer Basics at noon: Aug. 29, Marx, through Sept. 29, featuring lush Sept. 5 and 12. For more information, call gardens with a curated gallery of his (718) 549-5200. vibrant paintings, drawings and textiles. In addition, the sights and sounds of NOTE: Items for consideration may Brazil and its lively contributions to be mailed to our offi ce or sent to music and dance are included. Musical [email protected], and performances take place Saturdays from should be received by Sept. 2 for the next 1 to 4 p.m. and dance on Sundays from publication date of Sept. 12. August 29-September 11, 2019 • Norwood News • 27 Bronx Opioid Crisis Gets Senate’s Attention (continued from page 1) missed opportunities.” ing on makeshift beds, with garbage Savino represents parts of Staten strewn about. Island that have been ravaged by In 2017, the Bronx overtook Staten the opioid crisis. She said that the Island with the highest rate of over- epidemic has to be seen in a different dose deaths in New York City. The light and that no family is immune latest published figures show that from the addiction crises. four of the six neighborhoods with Thirty years ago, Savino started the highest rates of overdose deaths as a case worker during the height of are in the Crotona and Mott Haven the crack epidemic. sections of the Bronx. “We’ve come a long way in our un- In response to the alarming num- derstanding since then. Addiction ber of overdose deaths in the bor- is a disease, not a character defect,” ough, Mayor Bill de Blasio pledged $8 Savino said. million last November for drug treat- A better understanding of addic- ment programs in the Bronx. The tion is also promoted by Fletcher- funds are part of the Bronx Action Blake. She sees a lack of compassion Plan, which creates teams of first re- towards patients as creating unnec- sponders that include a social worker essary hardships. “We ask people and peer advocate to accompany the whose brain chemistries are twisted emergency medical technicians. to sit with us to develop treatment Additionally, $1 million is desig- goals that we use to determine suc- nated for more naloxone kits, support cess or failure,” Fletcher-Blake said. groups, and ad campaigns warning On the law enforcement front, residents about the dangers of fenta- Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark nyl, the drug commonly mixed with joined the rest of her counterparts heroin to pack an even greater and across the city in urging state law- potentially lethal high. makers to take action against the un- Joining Rivera as co-chairs during regulated distribution of all fentanyl the day-long hearing were senators analogs. In a joint statement released Pete Harckman representing parts of on Aug. 26, the DAs pointed to the Dutchess, Putnam, and Westchester “dangerously potent synthetic opioid counties, and David Carlucci repre- fentanyl and its variants, known as senting most of Rockland County and fentanyl analogs, [as] largely respon- parts of Westchester County. sible for the spike in drug-related The panel also included five other deaths in recent years. In New York senators—John Liu, Patrick Gal- City in 2018, fentanyl analogs were livan, George Amedore, Jr., Diane involved in 60 percent of all overdose Savino, and Shelley Mayer. deaths.” “The goal is to produce a report ... The DAs hope to increase law en- which is comprehensive, and which forcement tools such as search war- will very likely produce a policy rants, wiretaps and arrests in their agenda for next year,” said Rivera. effort to remove fentanyl analogs FREE GIFT Among those invited to appear be- from the streets. “By improving our (while supplies last) fore the panel was Debbian Fletcher- ability to link overdoses and deaths To new customers who enroll in our Blake, a family nurse practitioner to fentanyl analogs in autopsies and LOYALTY PROGRAM and bring this Ad and CEO of VIP Community Services. drug evidence, we can better protect Founded in 1974 as the Vocational In- the public and focus strategies on struction Program, the organization saving lives in our communities,” the uses an integrative approach to treat- DAs said in the statement. ing addiction by including services During the task force hearing, such as education, job training, and senators also pointed to a lack of ac- life skills in addition to specific reha- tion from Washington as a contribut- bilitation treatments. ing factor to the overdose epidemic. Fletcher-Blake sees a complex “We do not have faith in the fed- regulatory system as an obstacle to eral government,” Carlucci said refer- offering addicts a more permanent ring to the lack of funds and services $6 GENERICS = 30 DAY SUPPLY* solution. Some doctors may see ad- needed by the state to effectively com- *Formulary & pricing subject to change without any notice. dicts for a physical ailment but can- bat the opioid abuse epidemic. Flat fee prices may not apply to all manufacturers. not implement addiction treatment Not all of the suggestions, how- immunization services, ostomy supplies, Nebulizer, May not apply if prohibited by law. Conditions apply. on the same day. ever, revolved around governmental Rollator, Blood pressure machine See Pharmacy staff for more details. “For example, Medicaid laws pre- and medical interventions. vent same day billing for patients Carlucci described the commu- 255 E. Gun Hill Road Bronx, NY 10467 that seek physical health treatments nity residents as valuable assets in Tel: 718-654-2200 Fax: 718-515-9118 and behavioral health care,” Fletch- the fight against addiction and over- Visit our website er-Blake said. “Requiring patients doses. “We have to get more regular www.ovalpharmacy.com to come back another day leads to people involved,” Carlucci said. Oval Pharmacy @255 GUN HILL ROAD __

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