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ORWOODQ EWSQ FREE NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014 Vol 28, No 22 • PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION • NOVEMBER 12-25, 2015 ORWOODQ EWSQ NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014

INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: BE HEALTHY: BRONX HONORED IMPLEMENTING VISION ZERO | PG. 4 FOR HEALTH INITIATIVES | PG. 12 OVAL PARK LEFT

CB7 to Vote on IN THE DARK Housing Plan | pg 3 Obscure lighting at Williamsbridge Oval Park affecting football practice

Business Bill Calls for 10-Year Lease | pgs 8-9

Norwood Snapshots pg 10

Photo by Adi Talwar IN THE DARK. The Bronx Knights appear raring to go during their practice in virtual darkness at Williamsbridge Oval Park. The club’s organizers have requested lights be installed at the park. (A ash was utilized for the photograph to illuminate the players.)

By DAVID CRUZ command. Tiny helmeted save for distant, orangey pitch black after Daylight T he g r id i r on bu st le c ou ld silhouettes buzz about mid- glows illuminating over Saving Time, and practice only be heard, not seen, at field in a pre-determined the multi-purpose field. It’s for t he Bron x K nights, a pee - Williamsbridge Oval Park. pattern, shifting carefully there where Drake Holliday wee team for which Holliday A gruff voice barks “Get between the goalposts. blindly feeds a plug from a serves as president, must go up! Get down!” as a sharp It’s dusk at the Oval, generator to a socket. on. The trio of floodlights pgs 18-19 whistle signals an invisible with virtually no visibility It’s past 5 p.m. on Nov. 3, (continued on page 15) 2 • November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News EDITORIAL Vol. 28, No. 22 Vol. 27, No. 10 NorwoodVol. News 27, No.is published 10 bi-weeklyVol. 27, on No.Thursdays 10 by Dismal Voter Turnout Only Hurts You MosholuNorwood Preservation News Corporationis published (MPC) NorwoodNorwood3400 Reservoir News News is publishedisOval published East bi-weeklyBronx, New on ThursdaysYork 10467 by On Election Night, the Norwood voters. The more voters such as you bi-weeklybi-weekly on on Thursdays Thursdays by by MosholuPhone: Preservation 718 324 4998Corporation News stood glued to the results of voter pay attention, the more politicians MosholuMosholu Preservation Corporation Corporation 3400Fax: Reservoir 718 324 Oval2917 East returns in the race for Bronx District will pay attention, which can lead to a E-mail: [email protected] Reservoir Oval Oval East East Bronx, New York 10467 Web.:Bronx,Bronx, www.norwoodnews.org New New York York 10467 10467 Attorney, a contest rife with political stream of improvements. That point is intrigue wrapped in rarity (see page ever tangible during election season, Phone: 718 324 4998 Publisher Phone: 718 324 4998 7 for full story). The news of an ac- when prospective and incumbent law- Phone:Fax:Fax: 718718 718 324 324 3242917 2917 4998 MosholuE-mail: Preservation [email protected] Corporation tual race, the first in 27 years follow- makers pencil campaign stops in your E-mail: [email protected]: 718 324 2917 Editor-in-Chief,E-mail:Web: [email protected] www.norwoodnews.org Norwood News ing the long tenure of borough District neighborhood. David CruzWeb: www.norwoodnews.org Web: www.norwoodnews.org Attorney Robert Johnson, could have This would be significantly advan- Accounts Receivable spurred a big presence in a contest Photo by Jasmine Gomez tageous in poverty-stricken neighbor- DawnPublisher McEvoy CEO, Mosholu Mosholu Preservation 3UHVHUYDWLRQ that’s lain dormant for nearly three NOT MUCH TURNOUT in this year’s hoods, where low voter turnout has PublisherSalesCorporation Representative CEO, Mosholu Publisher CorporationCEO, Mosholu decades. Election Day, with just 3.2 percent of the prevented any shred of neighborhood MosholuVivian R. Preservation Carter Roberto3UHVHUYDWLRQ S. Garcia MosholuEditor-in-Chief Preservation voting population heading to the polls. Corporation Corporation3UHVHUYDWLRQ One would think it would at the improvement. Factors such as limited ProofreaderCorporationDavid Cruz Corporation Editor-in-ChiefJudy Noy Roberto S. Garcia very least signal a spike in voter turn- education, complicated voting proce- Editor-in-Chief Roberto S. Garcia DavidRegular&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ Cruz Contributors out in an otherwise lackluster politi- votes making up .32 percent of the dures, language barriers, and even the David Cruz DavidDawn Greene, McEvoy Adi Talwar cal season. We expected that. Unfortu- vote. Of those figures, we’ve tallied 4.5 transient state of some neighborhoods, $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH nately, it didn’t happen. percent of the 718,146 registered vot- contributed to scant turnout. &ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJInternsDawn McEvoy Jasmine&ODVVLÀHG$GYHUWLVLQJ Gomez, Adedamola Agboola When the returns trickled in, we ers went to the polls. Of the 1,016,912 But could lack of voting be inter- DawnProofreader McEvoy Dawn McEvoy noticed there was barely a voice go- Bronxites of the age of 18 who are eli- preted as a referendum on a voter’s faith $FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOHContributorsJudy Noy DawnMiriam$FFRXQWV5HFHLYDEOH3URGXFWLRQ McEvoy Quinones, Michael Brown Jr., ing to the polls. The bulk of registered gible, a group termed the Voting Age in politics? Maybe. Perhaps yearly head- NoahDawnNeil deMauseCaldwellMcEvoy Bronx voters had once again stood Population, a whopping 3.2 percent lines of elite politicians standing trial Proofreader Proofreader5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV home, relinquishing a privilege that of that number went out to vote. Not for abuse of power compel voters to stay Judy ForNoy display advertising, call JudyDavid Noy Greene, Adi Talwar remains unseen in virtually most of good. home on Election Day. 3URGXFWLRQVivian R. Carter at (718) 324-4998 Interns the modern world. In the race for DA, It’s been a matter of record that The silent demonstration, however, Neil3URGXFWLRQShaylaor deMause [email protected]. Love, Paolo Mossetti, Justin McCallum, Neiland deMause Chelsea George the Board of Elections tallied 32,901 casting a ballot has been in sharp de- only makes the incumbents stronger. 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV 5HJXODU&RQWULEXWRUV votes, despite polls staying open for 15 cline in New York State, following a It’s ironic, yet it happens. Low voter DavidSupportFor displayGreene, advertising,Your Adi Talwar call (718) 324-4998. CommunityDavid Greene, Adi Newspaper! Talwar hours. Casting a vote seemed like a sol- trend in the U.S. powered by declining turnout can maintain the status quo, Interns Support Your itary event, with nary a voter in sight. confidence in the money-driven politi- and nary a challenge by anyone. By not ShaylaTheInterns Norwood Love, News Paolo is a Mossetti,not-for-profi Justin t publication McCallum, andCommunity relies upon the Newspaper! support of its advertisers Doing the math further, and tak- cal process and apathy towards civic voting, you’ve effectively shut out a right andShayla Chelsea Love, George Paolo Mossetti, Justin McCallum, andThe readersChelsea Norwood to George News produceLVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE a quality community- ing preliminary results from the DA responsibility. It’s no longer viewed as that’s been earned and protected since lication and relies upon the support of its newspaper. To support your paper, become race, we see that of the 96.67 percent of duty-bound, which is unfortunate. the country seized its independence. Fora memberadvertisers display andadvertising, and receivereaders to acall producesubscription (718) a quality324-4998. for one year.Forcommunity display advertising,newspaper. To call support (718) your 324-4998. paper, precincts finalizing their votes, 32,901 It’s been said by political observ- It’s quiet out there, save for the become a member and receive a subscription votes were cast. Of that number, 85.58 ers that legislators often pay attention streets. There has been protest after Supportfor one year. Your SimplySupport mail checkYour or money order for $40 to: percent went to Darcel Clark, a Demo- to communities that vote, interpreted protest on a given cause, yet no one’s CommunityNorwood News, 3400Newspaper! Reservoir Oval East, Simply mail check or money order for $40 crat, while Robert Siano, a Republican, as a symbol of a conscious voting bloc. making noise at the polls. Reverse it in TheBronx,Community Norwood NY 10467. News Newspaper!LVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE - Theto: Norwood Norwood News, News 3400LVDQRWIRUSURÀWSXE Reservoir Oval East, - received 14.10 percent with write-in After all, politicians are beholden to the future. licationNorwoodBronx, and NY News 10467.relies is upon not responsible the support forof its advertiserslication and and relies readers upon theto produce support aof quality its typographicaladvertisers and errors. readers Opinions to produce expressed a quality in communitysignedNorwood letters Newsnewspaper. and is not bylined responsible To supportcolumns for typo your represent- paper, becomethecommunitygraphical sole aopinion membererrors. newspaper. Opinionsof andthe authorreceiveTo expressed support and a subscriptionin areyoursigned not paper, necessarilybecomeletters anda member bylinedthose columnsof and Mosholu receive represent Preservation a subscriptionthe sole for opinionone year. of the author and are not necessarily Corporationfor one year. or Montefi ore Medical Center. those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations Editorials represent the views of the editor RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS- Simplyonly. The mail newspaper check or moneyreserves order the forright $40 Simplyresent mail the views check of theor moneyeditor and/or order publisher for $40 to:to limitNorwood or refuse News, advertising 3400 Reservoir it deems Oval East, to: only.Norwood The newspaper News, 3400reserves Reservoir the right to Oval limit East, ,ETTERS4O4HE%DITOR Bronx,objectionable. NY 10467. Advertisements appearing Bronx,or refuse NY advertising10467. it deems objectionable. in thisAdvertisements paper cannot appearing be used in this withoutpaper cannot Norwoodthebe written used Newswithout permission is the not written responsible of permissionthe Norwood for of Nortypo - - News. Letters to the editor are subject to graphicalNorwoodwood News. errors.News Letters isOpinions not to theresponsible editor expressed are subject for intypo signed- condensationgraphicalto condensation errors. and and Opinions editing. editing. Writers expressedWriters should should in signed letters and bylined columns represent the sole er’s as listed in your article, they’re tageous to know in advance - unless includelettersLQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ and their bylined affi liation columns or special represent interest the ifsole Alzheimer’s Advance opinionany. Anonymous of the author letters and are are not not published necessarily undoubtedly already upset or frus- it’s to have the patient start putting opinionAnonymous of the letters author are andnot published are not butnecessarily your thosebutname your of canMosholu name be withheld can Preservation be if requested.withheld Corporations upon Testing Unnecessary trated enough without having to be their affairs in order - which is, in it- RU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHSrequest.those of Mosholu Preservation Corporations- tested for confirmation. Not only can self, a depressing thought, or to start resentRU0RQWHÀRUH0HGLFDO&HQWHU(GLWRULDOVUHS the views of the editor and/or publisher- Dear Editor: testing positive for the disease cause a “bucket list” at an earlier age than only.resent The the newspaper views of the reserves editor and/or the right publisher to limit only.Mosholu The newspaperPreservation Corporationreserves theis a right to limit In the Be Healthy column in your more distress and depression to the they may have anticipated. or refuseQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH advertising it deems objectionable. or refuse advertising it deems objectionable. AdvertisementsMedical Center. appearing in this paper cannot Oct. 29 - Nov. 11 issue, it’s suggested patient, but to family members as According to the article, having beAdvertisements used without theappearing written inpermission this paper of cannot Nor- that people with early signs or symp- well. Alzheimer’s may lead to “a gradual be used without the written permission of Nor- woodMosholu News. Preservation Letters to theCorporation editor are is subject a non- toms of Alzheimer’s be tested to learn When patients are tested for ill- decline in memory and ultimately wood News. Letters to the editor are subject toprofi condensation t support corporationand editing. ofWriters Montefi should ore if they’re on track for the disease. The nesses for which there are treatments death,” but can’t that be said for all Medicalto condensation Center. and editing. Writers should LQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ article claims the condition is “irre- or cures, they can feel they have a of us if we live long enough? Why get AnonymousLQFOXGHWKHLUDIÀOLDWLRQRUVSHFLDOLQWHUHVWLIDQ\ letters are not published but your versible with no cure.” fighting chance to become well. Since this information in advance? nameAnonymous can be letters withheld are if not requested. published but your name can be withheld if requested. If someone exhibits one or more of there’s currently no known cure for Judy Noy the early warning signs of Alzheim- Alzheimer’s, it doesn’t seem advan- Norwood

Mosholu Preservation Corporation is a QRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUHMosholu Preservation Corporation is a MedicalQRWSURÀWVXSSRUWFRUSRUDWLRQRI0RQWHÀRUH Center. Medical Center. November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News • 3 CB7 Gets Turn to Vote on City Housing Plan By ADEDAMOLA AGBOOLA community boards 6 and 9 approved it. Mayor Bill de Blasio’s proposal to “Our Uniform Land Use Review Proce- create more affordable housing for dure committee and the Housing and New Yorkers dubbed Housing New Economic Development committee York might hit a bump as community will be reporting their recommenda- boards, including Community Board tions at the general board meeting be- 7, will vote for or against the plan. fore the voting exercise,” said Dr. Bola At issue with CB7, where its gen- Omotosho, chairman of Community eral board is expected to vote down the Board 5. “At the moment, there are measure when it meets Nov. 17, is the still a lot of questions being asked by loss of an in-house parking require- [community board] members so that ment for new buildings that could lead they be well informed before they cast to increased demand for street park- their votes.” Community boards have ing. The rule would apply to neighbor- till the end of November to submit hoods falling under a so-called Tran- their recommendations on the plan. sit Zone, where there’s ample public Even though the community transportation for neighbors. In mid- boards’ votes carry an advisory capac- October, CB7’s Land Use and Zoning File Photo ity and not a legal one, they are seri- Committee voted against the plan. The MAYOR BILL DE BLASIO, at a news conference in May 2014, announces his Housing ously taken into consideration by the General Board usually follows the rec- New York plan in the Claremont Village of the Bronx. City Council. The Borough President’s ommendations of its committees. office plays a mandated role in the The new set of proposals by de Bla- Procedure (ULURP), which seeks ad- the mayor’s new plan. The plans have ULURP process, and won’t be taking sio’s office also includes Mandatory visory approvals or rejections from residents skeptical over the claims of any position on the amendment until Inclusionary Housing, which would 59 community boards, the City’s Plan- the program’s claim to create income after the public gets its turn to speak mandate a reserve of about 25 to 30 per- ning Commission, and borough boards diverse neighborhoods and affordable on the issue. cent residential floor area in any newly before any the New York City Council income housing while others are sim- “Our office will consider the input developed property permanently set votes on it next spring. ply concerned about parking problems of elected officials, community organi- aside for low- to median-income earn- Community boards around the city the rezoning will cause in their neigh- zations, our community boards and the ers around the city. have organized town halls and spe- borhoods. public-at-large as we develop our posi- The proposal has to go through the cial meetings to vote and have an open Of the 12 Bronx community boards tion on this issue,” Borough President lengthy Uniform Land Use Review discussion about the pros and cons of that voted on the mayor’s plan, only Ruben Diaz Jr., said in a statement. 4 • November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER By DAVID GREENE With some recent high-proﬁ le motor vehicle crashes, we asked readers their thoughts on the implementation of Vision Zero and whether pedestrian safety has gotten better or worse.

It doesn’t matter because the I believe that traffi c has gotten I feel like traffi c fatalities have The traffi c over here is dangerous. I’ve noticed that it is getting better, drivers don’t abide by the law safer to some extent. Some drivers increased a little bit over last year Where I live they have construction yes. It’s not what it should be, but anyway. People complain when are actually driving more cautiously with more casualties and more on one side and there’s a stop light it’s starting to improve. I’ve noticed you go too slow; they beep you now because of the new laws that incidents. To tell you the truth, I for you to stop, but you can’t see that it’s easier to cross now without and try and make you go faster and passed. However, some drivers feel like they should enforce more the traffi c that’s coming down and getting hit by a car. Drivers are if people don’t see police around, don’t take this into consideration of the traffi c laws. Nobody pays drivers always try and run the red driving more cautiously. I think they’re moving. Who wants to do and there are some accidents that attention to the speed limit. Police light. I’ve almost gotten hit two or they should continue to go further 25 miles per hour? They’re in a still happen. There should be more give some fi nes, but few drivers three times crossing the street over with it to provide more safety for hurry. You ever drive 25 and see enforcement to these laws. care about the fi nes and accidents there. I haven’t noticed a difference pedestrians. how far you get? You hold other Sach Torres happen because people die every with Vision Zero. They need more Dennis McCarthy drivers up. day. patrol cars. I feel they don’t give Norwood Kingsbridge T. Becerra Steve Tzvetanov out enough tickets. Norwood Norwood Jeremy Joseph Burnside November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News • 5 Meeting on Oval Park Violence Fizzles By WILLIAM MATHIS said the Police Department has made Representatives from a number of 13 arrests in the park so far this year, Bronx-based anti-violence groups gath- mostly for robbery crimes. Patrols can ered on Nov. 4 to discuss strategies to be seen daily by officers, who share du- reduce youth violence. The meeting ties with park enforcement patrol offi- /JGHBIZ occurred after a few recent violent in- cers who are seldom seen. cidents in the Williamsbridge Oval Doug Condit, one of a handful of Park, including a couple of large fights community members in attendance, among students of a nearby school. emphasized the need to include youth But in the audience assembled in in the conversation on how best to work the Oval Recreation Center, there was with them. “If you’re not into the ath- a central demographic missing: young letic opportunities we provide, what do BIGTHROUGHOUT SAVINGS THE JEROME-GUN HILL AREA! people. you want to do?” asked Condit. “The people who need to hear it are The other organizations that COME SHOP & SAVE BIG ALL YEAR ROUND not here,” said Abdul “Sleep” Johnson, presented, including Bronx Rise Over 200 Stores on Jerome Avenue from Mosholu to founder and CEO of the Community Against Violence (BRAG) and Peace Gun Hill Road and on Gun Hill Road to Webster Avenue Board Athletic Leadership League, December do not currently operate noting that all the interested people in in Norwood, but offered their work Discover the Stores, Quality Service and Savings at the Jerome-Gun Hill the room could not effect change with- as examples of successful youth out- Business Improvement District. out input from youth. reach and peace building. Peace De- Where Good Neighbors Heavily utilized during warmer cember operates a space where all Deserve Great Shopping! months, the Williamsbridge Oval Park kinds of groups get together and find All in a Safe, Clean & has long been a staple in Norwood. common ground on contentious is- Friendly Environment While many family-friendly events use sues. Call the Oval Park as their venue, it’s also a set- Emilio Rodriguez from BRAG BID Hotline at 718-324-4946 for more information or visit us at ting for fistfights among high school spoke about the group’s programs in www.jeromegunhillbid.org students. Recently, pictures taken by the 46th Precinct to reach youth in Aldo Perez, a neighborhood activist, gangs. He said they work with gang captured a brawl among students by leaders to try and encourage the the track and field. In April 2013, a youth to get involved in other activi- video of two teenage girls fighting at ties besides gangs. His organization the Oval was uploaded to YouTube. is set to open a new $80,000 music stu- Crystal Reveron, community af- dio where they teach how to make and fairs officer for the 52nd Precinct, told record rap music. While they do not the audience that the uptick in violence work in the 52nd Precinct directly, he in the Oval is part of a general trend noted the interconnectedness of the of increased use of the park. “Kids are neighborhoods. “What happens in the attracted to parks,” she said. Reveron 5-2 goes into the 4-6,” he said.

Photo courtesy Aldo Perez YOUNG PEOPLE BRAWL on the grounds of Williamsbridge Oval Park, a common setting to settle scores. 6 • November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News Warning: Deadly St. Patrick’s Home Honors Departed Aphrodisiac Is Rare Drug of Choice

By JASMINE GOMEZ Synthetic marijuana is not the only drug trend troubling city health officials, who are now warning the public of a deadly aphrodisiac making the rounds. The warning by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene comes after a 39- year-old’s death as a result of in- gesting an aphrodisiac that goes by the nicknames “stone,” “Piedra China,” and “Black Rock,” among others. The hospital alerted the New York City Poison Control Cen- ter (NYCPCC) of the unidentified man’s cause of death. The NYCHD is asking health care providers to alert poison control if they suspect a case of poisoning from the drug. The NY- CPCC has already seen seven similar cases since the year 2000. “Stone.” derived from toad venom and trees can cause heart problems by disrupting the nor- mal rhythm of the heart, affect the skin if applied topically, and in some cases lead to death. Poi- soning by the drug may manifest Photo by Miriam Quinones itself through vomiting or abdomi- FATHER MARK ZITTLE, O.CARM., a chaplain at Fordham University, leads a special mass at St. Patrick’s Home Reha- nal and chest pain. bilitation and Health Care Center on Nov. 7 honoring the home’s past and present clients who died between October 2014 Although “stone” has been and November 2015. The ceremony is a yearly tradition at the Van Cortlandt Village home at 66 Van Cortlandt Pk. So. banned by the Food and Drug Ad- Parishioners at the solemn gathering were also accompanied by Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm, the founders of ministration, it is imported ille- the home. gally and sold in some adult and neighborhood stores as a small solid chunk. The Department of Health and federal authorities are SAT Prep Available to High School Juniors working together to get the drug off store shelves. By JASMINE GOMEZ their junior year. ing, and in particular, broadening op- They warn consumers who use New York City high school juniors “The new SAT School Day and the portunities for African-American and the substance to stop using them, will no longer have to trek it to another expansion of College Application Week Hispanic students. and to throw them in the garbage. school’s campus on an early Saturday demonstrate our commitment to pro- Statistics taken in 2015 by the New They ask anyone to call the Poison morning to take the SAT exam. viding every student with the support York City Department of Education Control Center at (212) 764-7667. As part of the College Access for All and resources they need to pursue col- show average SAT scores fare better Spanish-speakers can call (212) Initiative, a program designed to make lege,” said Farina in a statement. than the rest of the country, with the 836-3667. the path to college easier for students The school calendar year already critical reading, writing, and math of all backgrounds, the school calen- includes a PSAT school day aimed at portions of the exam scoring three dar will now include an SAT school sophomores as they prepare to take points higher when compared to the day. Schools Chancellor Carmen Fa- the exam the following year and has United States. In the last five years, the rina announced the program at a Col- resulted in a threefold increase of stu- number of students taking the SAT has www. norwoodnews.org lege Application Week kickoff event dents who actually take the exam. Of- climbed steadily. at the High School of Fashion Indus- ficials hope that the SAT School Day In spring 2016, 90 schools will serve tries. The new SAT School Day will will have similar results by removing as pilots for the SAT School Day pro- allow high school students to take hurdles such as individually having gram, with the citywide implemen- the SAT exam for free during the des- to register for for the test, traveling to tation of the initiative happening in ignated school day in the spring of of another location on a Saturday morn- spring 2017. November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News • 7

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 Marble Hill 8 • November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News With Gentrification Worries Germinating Across the

By DAVID CRUZ pret them as an indicator of stability In the decades since Tom opened and loan-worthiness. his Kingsbridge business, things had always been profitable and quiet. That SBSJA Bill was until last year when his landlord The small business sector has long denied him his regular five-year lease been a driver of job growth, with 66.7 extension. Tom asked his last name be percent of the city’s small businesses withheld for fear of retribution from employing fewer than five workers, up his landlord who’s dangled a month-to- from 65.2 percent in 2008, according to month lease over his head. the Center for an Urban Future (CUF), “My future’s uncertain there,” said a nonprofit think tank. Tom. He’s since kick started his restau- But as it stands, landlords have rant business in nearby Westchester maintained a grip on their commer- County, where small businesses reign, cial leases, offering them up to the he noted. highest bidder, according to Kirsten Along Kingsbridge Road, a com- Theodos, one of the lead organizers of mercial area home to small businesses, Take Back NY. “The only factor that’s many stores have maintained a hold- taken into consideration in a commer- ing pattern as the corridor awaits the cial lease renewal process is how much opening of the Kingsbridge National is the landlord going to make,” said Ice Center, considered a flashpoint in Theodos. “It never factors in, ‘Well, the future of the working class neigh- why can’t the commercial tenant make borhood. But talk of gentrification has a living?’” become a predominant issue for small Other stipulations in the bill in- business tenants in Kingsbridge, clude arbitration rights for commer- thanks to the development project cial tenants who can deem their lease that’s still in its early stages. unfair and reduced down payments for The real estate industry has indeed first-year commercial tenants. The bill made a comeback, given the escalating would also end the unconfirmed, un- rents across the city. For small busi- derground practice of landlords seek- ness owners, the comeback has deep- ing an under-the-table bribe, or “key ened into a crisis, according to Take money” to keep a commercial tenant Back NYC, an advocacy group that active. views the commercial lease renewal The bill is intended to reverse process more as a shakedown than an a struggle that’s creeping into the evenhanded exchange. Bronx: a priced-out borough. Rising The group has been aggressively rents by an unrelenting real estate in- lobbying the New York City Council dustry have caused a drop in the num- to enact the Small Business Survival ber of small businesses opening and an Jobs Act (SBSJA), which would give escalating rise in big chain stores. In automatic 10-year leases to commer- 2014, New York City saw a 2.5 percent File Photo by Janaki Chadha cial tenants, a benefit to small busi- increase in the number of national re- FOREVER YOUNG, a business once in Kingsbridge relocated after a recent rent nesses that rely on time to cultivate tailers opening in the city when com- spike. their venture. Long term leases are pared to the .5 percent the city saw more attractive to banks, who inter- between 2012 and 2013, according to a report by the CUF. She’s one of a handful of legislators in In the Bronx, small businesses did the Bronx Council Delegation support- not fare well in 2014, thanks to a 30 per- ing the bill, with Council Members cent jump in the number of businesses Andy King and Maria del Carmen Ar- facing court evictions. Rent, it seems, royo also endorsing. has been a burden that’s forced many Twenty-seven Council members to close or simply walk away from have now backed the bill, the magic their business without recouping their number for a bill to pass the Council. HHAs, PCAs initial investment. Before a floor vote, the Committee on Bronx/Manhattan Area “How this system’s set up today,” Small Business, which oversees busi- F/T, P/T & Weekends said Theodos, “it’s all about the land- ness matters, would have to hold a FREE TRAINING AVAILABLE lord.” hearing. The bill has seen several incar- A Caring Opportunity...with a caring company Reintroducing the Bill nations since the mid-1980s, though • Great Pay! •All shifts • Paid vacation after 1 year The bill was reintroduced in 2014 it’s never gained enough traction to • Personal/Sick days • Life Insurance • 401K plan by Bronx Councilwoman Annabel achieve support from mayoral admin- • Health insurance available • EOE Palma, who was unavailable to speak istrations. Mayor Bill de Blasio, while Call 212-867-6530 Kevin-ext 221, Verna-ext 230 to the Norwood News as of press time. a City Councilman and later the Public November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News • 9 Borough, a Bill Aims to Curb Small Business Erosion

Advocate, had pushed for the bill. He addressed in 2010 when Borough Pres- “Even at the 2009 public hearing been set. has maintained his support to small ident Ruben Diaz Jr. hosted a forum of the bill, no one brought up chal- businesses by lowering fines levied on the legislation. Invitations went lenging the legality,” said Theodos. Editor’s Note: The comments Ms. on small business owners, though he’s to the Real Estate Board of New York She cited a report in 2009 that justi- Mistry initially made published in the said little on his stance on the bill. His and then-Council Speaker Christine fies the City Council authorization to online version of this story were mis- deputy mayor for Housing and Eco- Quinn, considered major opponents pass the SBSJA bill with no legisla- read by the author of this report. The nomics, Alicia Glen, opposes the legis- of the legislation, though they never tive input from the state.A committee Norwood News regrets the error. lation, explaining it may “not solve the appeared. date for the current bill has not yet problem that people think the problem is.” Theodos has long blamed the bill’s holdup on the financial reach of the real estate lobby, which has pumped Tiny Feet, Big Dreams millions of dollars into City Council campaigns. During the 2013 election cycle, the political action committee known as Jobs for New York pumped millions of dollars into 17 Council races, according to campaign filings. Other council members in the Bronx and beyond have largely kept quiet on the bill or have simply gone on record saying they were examining it after inquiries from the Norwood News. Some have questioned whether the bill infringes on the legal rights of the landlord, a claim that surfaces whenever the bill grabs attention. Those standing against the bill include the Real Estate Board of New York, a powerful lobbying group that’s fought the bill each time it surfaces. Its president, John Banks, has questioned the bills, calling them “unconstitu- tional.” Nisha Mistry, director of the Urban Law Center at Fordham University, said the bill, should it ever be chal- lenged in court, has strong arguments for and against. While opponents could argue the State should have oversight in commercial rent laws, she said, supporters of the bill could point to the City’s obligation in protecting New Since re-opening in October 2014, Yorkers from what it sees as unfair practices. North Central Bronx Hospital “The question of actually control- ling the rent or doing a rent control has welcomed over 1,000 babies into the world. strategy versus other strategies that can lock in affordability is still unclear,” said Mistry, “because there are Let us help your dreams come true. other things that can be done, like actually developing or prioritizing small business in actual development.” Mistry, who favored the bill’s me- For more information or to schedule a tour, diation policy, argued that rezoning please call Labor & Delivery at (718) 519-2141. of commercial corridors can serve as a roundabout way to keep the small business sector intact by only man- ORTH ENTRAL RONX OSPITAL dating mom-and-pops stores be estab- N C B H lished in certain areas. 3424 Kossuth Avenue Bronx, NY 10467 The question of legality had been HHC - NYC Health & Hospitals Corporation (nyc.gov/hhc) 10 • November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News 3URXGO\6HUYLQJ%URQ[&RPPXQLWLHV6LQFHFREE

ORWOODQ EWSQ NVol. 27, No. 8 PUBLISHED BY MOSHOLU PRESERVATION CORPORATION N April 17–30, 2014

Photo courtesy Miriam Quinones Photo by Adedamola Agboola MIRIAM QUINONES (LEFT), a freelance photographer for the Norwood News was THE HALLOWEEN SPIRIT coursed along the Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improvement among the winners of an art contest at Poe Cottage, which showcased photo artwork District Oct. 30 with help from Nohelia Aquino (center), suiting up as Spider-Woman from several Bronx-based artists. On Nov. 7, Quinones shared a moment with several and Jasmine Gomez (right), dressed as a black cat. They share a moment with this artists who had their work showcased. youngster decked out as Captain America. The duo helped distribute trick-or-treat bags to stores participating in Halloween festivities.

Photo by Miriam Quinones THESE KIDS HOP AND DANCE on Decatur Avenue near Fordham Road, which trans- formed into a Halloween bonanza loaded with benefi ts of staying healthy. Organized by Shanequa Charles, the third annual Miss Abbie’s Halloween Extravaganza Health Fair drew some 2000 guests this year. Participants took advantage of healthy treats, a bouncy castle and health screenings. Councilman Ritchie Torres and Provident Loan Society were among the sponsors. Photo courtesy Offi ce of Councilman Ritchie Torres WHAT TO DO with $1 million in capital funding was a question posed at a Partici- patory Budgeting session organized by Councilman Ritchie Torres (center). His offi ce launched the second year of PB, an initiative that puts the budgeting process to constituents, at Theodore Roosevelt Educational Campus on Oct. 28. There, locals drafted proposals for improvements to their neighborhoods.

Photo courtesy Montefi ore Health System CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER for Shalom Kalnicki, M.D., F.A.C.R.O., chairman of the Department of Radiation Oncology at Montefi ore Einstein Center for Cancer Care and professor of Radia- tion Oncology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, who has been installed on Photo by Jasmine Gomez the board of the Radiosurgery Society CREWS FROM THE New York City Department of Parks & Recreation have begun (RSS) and on the Executive Committee of repairs caused from a wall collapse at the north side of Williamsbridge Oval Park. It’s the Society of Chairs of Academic Radia- still unclear what caused the wall to collapse and has since been cordoned off while tion Oncology Programs (SCAROP). Kal- crews make repairs. A video showing the initial repair work can be found on www. nicki hails from Riverdale. norwoodnews.org. November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News • 11 12 • November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News

Health ranking of Bronx County. How much of a person’s life Vital (Source: New York State is dedicated to sleep. StatsStats Be Healthy 33%62 Department of Health) Bronx Wins RWJF Culture of Health Prize

By NOAH CALDWELL over decades; people who didn’t flee The Bronx’s collective goal of im- when others fled.” proving public health has earned it The RWJF, a philanthropic orga- the highly competitive “Culture of nization based in Princeton, N.J., Health” prize from the Robert Wood awards the prize to communities Johnson Foundation (RWJF). tackling public health issues from After a yearlong application pro- every possible angle. So when ap- cess spearheaded by hospitals, non- plications opened last fall, the prize profits, and the New York State De- committee looked for concrete ac- partment of Health, the Bronx has tion, not statistics. been chosen as one of eight winners Parsons and the Bronx applica- from a pool of 340 nationwide com- tion team highlighted a raft of ongo- munities. For health profession- ing initiatives, hoping to show that als in a county that consistently public health conditions are an in- ranks as New York’s unhealthiest, terconnected web, with each strand the prize is a symbol of positive pulling at another. Among the ini- change. tiatives were a YMCA diabetes pre- “It marks a turning of the page,” vention program, a push for fresh said Dr. Amanda Parsons, vice pres- produce in bodegas, school-based File Photo courtesy Montefiore Health System ident of Community and Population health services for underserved stu- A WALK IN THE PARK. Health initiatives such as this Walk the Oval event by Mon- Health at Montefiore Medical Center dents, and collaborative data-shar- tefiore Health System earned the borough a coveted prize by the Robert Wood John- (also known as Montefiore Health ing between clinics. son Foundation. System), the coordinating body for “The Bronx is thinking about the prize application. “It was won by health broadly,” said Abbey Clofsky, who vetted prize applications. “The For the last few years, she and other tens of thousands of people, working an RWJF senior program officer physical environment, transform- local health professionals have or- ing schools, access to housing. We ganized under the rallying cry “Not look at partnerships. We get a lot of 62”—a reference to being ranked applications that are highlighting last of the 62 counties in New York. LET’S MAKE BEAUTIFUL MUSCLES TOGETHER just one organization.” The hashtag #Not62 appears almost And yet, the Bronx ranks last daily on Twitter, as Bronxites post in New York in the “County Health about bike rides, community gar- Rankings and Roadmap”—a nation- dens or school nutrition. wide list compiled by the RWJF. The “If we’re going to get out of last ranking considers dozens of indica- place, we’re going to need to do a tors such as life expectancy, child- heck of a lot of work,” Bedell said. hood poverty and sexually trans- “But we can all agree that people mitted infections. Every year since should be able to achieve their max- the list began in 2010 the Bronx has imum health potential.” been at the bottom. At Montefiore Health System, Clofsky noted it was the county Parsons believes winning the prize rankings that actually spurred the helps to clear the slate for a borough foundation to create the Culture fighting a lingering negative repu- BRING THIS IN FOR A of Health prize in 2012. “What we tation. “This isn’t a prize for po- found was that it allowed counties to tential. This prize was about dem- compare to each other. They wanted onstrating that really good things examples of what their peers were have happened,” she said. “It’s a 3-DAY PASS! doing,” she said. To the prize com- very poor borough, and there’s been mittee, the Bronx’s low performance a lot of underinvestment. And yet, on paper didn’t take away from the there’s this community that really ¡TRAE ESTO PARA OBTENER UN borough’s progressive approach to cares.” public health. “There are a lot of Along with receiving a $25,000 places that are healthy across the cash prize, winning communities PASE DE 3 DÍAS! board. But that doesn’t tell us which are folded into the foundation’s net- are the communities that are work- work of previous recipients. “The 3170 Webster Ave • Bronx, NY • 718.515.0110 • Crunch.com ing the hardest.” cash prize is in some ways second- Dr. Jane Bedell, at the Bronx Dis- ary,” said Clofsky. “It’s about giv- Pricing is in reference to the Base membership at the Crunch Norwood location. Offer is valid in-club only and is not available on &UXQFKFRP*XHVWSDVVLVYDOLGIRU¿UVWWLPHJXHVWRQO\DQGPXVWEHXVHGIRUWKUHHFRQVHFXWLYHGD\V0XVWEH\HDUVRUROGHU trict Public Health Office, isn’t de- ing them the opportunity to make a DQGSUHVHQWYDOLGSKRWR,'(QUROOPHQWIHHDQGDQQXDOIHHDSSOLHV6HHFOXEIRUGHWDLOV&UXQFK,3+ROGLQJV//& terred by the Bronx’s low ranking. platform to tell their story.” November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News • 13 NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES

Heating Assistance Available Do not apply online and also send This winter, the Home Energy in a paper application. Applicants Assistance Program (HEAP) of- who submit more than one applica- fers eligible households of low-in- tion may be disqualified. come and elderly New Yorkers to receive a one-time benefit of up to Bainbridge Ave. Garden $625 depending on income, house- Seeks Donations hold size, and heating source. The Bainbridge Avenue Gar- Households may begin applying den, sponsor of the Norwood Food for assistance Nov. 16. Applica- Co-op, is accepting donations to tions for emergency benefits for help fix a falling stone wall in those in danger of losing heat will their garden. The cost of the re- be accepted starting Jan. 4, 2016. pairs is estimated to be $2,500, and For more information and require- $1,250 is still needed. Make your ments, go to http://otda.ny.gov/ checks or money orders payable programs/heap. to Bainbridge Avenue Garden and mail to: Janice Flood, 365 E. 209th MMCC Pre-Thanksgiving Street, Apt. 1C, Bronx, NY 10467. Luncheon All are invited to see the garden in MMCC’s Senior Center, 3450 the spring. DeKalb Ave., hosts a pre-Thanks- giving luncheon with musical en- Snow Laborers tertainment on Nov. 19 at 11:30 Early registration has begun a.m. for seniors 60 and older and for part-time emergency laborers advance registration is required. for the upcoming snow season. For more information, call (718) Pay is $13.50 per hour, and $20.25 798-6601. Space is limited. per hour after 40 hours are worked in a week. To register, visit the Yankee Leadership Awards Bronx yard at Mosholu Avenue Applications are available for and Broadway in Van Cortlandt the Youth Leadership Awards. Park, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to Nominees are expected to perform 3 p.m. Applicants must be at least 50 hours of leadership/volunteer age 18, bring two small photos (1 services as a tutor, mentor, com- ½ square), or original and copy of munity unity developer, and/or two forms of ID and a Social Secu- as an advocate against violence in rity Card. the community. Submit applications by Nov. 20 to New York Yan- CHAM’S Lending Library kees Community Council, Attn: The Children’s Hospital at Mon- Brian Smith, Senior Vice Presi- tefiore (CHAM), 3415 Bainbridge dent, Corporate/Community Rela- Ave. (off Gun Hill Road), offers tions, Yankee Stadium, One East books for lending for all ages at the 161st Street, Bronx, NY 10451. For Family Learning Place located on more information, email commu- their first floor lobby. The public [email protected]. is invited to browse and borrow books for one week, with the pos- Norwood Terrace sibility of renewal. Book donations Applications are welcome. For more informa- Applications are available for tion, call (718) 741-2357 or email affordable housing for low-income the Family Learning Place at flp@ individuals wanting to secure montefiore.org. housing at 3349 Webster Ave. Ap- ply online or through mail. Dead- Immigration/Legal Services line is Nov. 30. To apply online, go Immigration and legal services to www.nyc.gov/housingconnect. are available at the Office of Coun- To request an application by mail, cilman Fernando Cabrera, 107 E. send a self-addressed stamped en- Burnside Ave., Thursdays and Fri- velope to Norwood Terrace Apart- days from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A hous- ments, 1357 Broadway, Box 309, ing lawyer is available every other New York, NY 10018. Send only one Monday. Appointments are re- application per development. Do quired. To schedule one, call (347) not submit duplicate applications. 590-2875. 14 • November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News Classiﬁ eds Professional Directory

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3200 Grand Concourse - (718) 561-3200 - Metrourgicare.com From November 12th Until November 20th Come in anytime Monday - Friday 9am-9pm to enter our raffle to win a FREE $25 gift card towards a holiday turkey Two winners will be selected on Monday November 23rd at Noon No participation needed to enter Free Blood Pressure Screenings Daily Our Services Include: Accidents and Falls Dehydration (Requiring IV Hydration) Physical Exams: Annual, School and Sports Allergic Reactions Ear Aches, Ear Infections Severe Abdominal Pain Asthma Attacks or Wheezing Headaches and Migraines STD Screening (AIDS/HIV) Cuts, Insect Bites, Lacerations, Minor Burns, Immunizations and Vaccinations Stomach Flu/Virus Open wounds, Rashes, Scrapes Nose Bleeds Urinary Tract Infection Flu Immunization Cholesterol, Diabetes and Thyroid Screenings On Site X-Ray November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News • 15 Oval Park Left in the Dark

(continued from page 1) to have limited running plays, feel- provement. Determining a capital construction of the lights,” said Lo- Holliday’s set up, more suitable for ing completely unprepared. “There park project is often a long, cum- pez. “It is up to the parks commis- home repairs, is the best he could was one game, we went to Green- bersome process falling under the sioner and borough commissioner do. The silhouettes, young athletes point, and in the night all the lights discretion of the New York City De- to make the final determination.” dressed in football gear, transform were on, and it was perfect,” Juan partment of Parks and Recreation. After the Capital Budget Office into blurry players, thanks to fluo- recalled. The agency works with the New estimates the project, funding is rescent beams that supply pockets “It just doesn’t give them the York City Council, whose mem- then asked of the local elected offi- of light. It’s enough to avoid a seri- drive to run in the dark,” said bers allocate funds for a project cial, in this case Cohen. ous collision, and at least see the Wilkinson of the players. “That’s on appeal from constituents. The A spokesperson for Cohen said pigskin. why we went out and bought our agency’s capital budget stands at the project has been proposed under Practice could be simpler and own lights. And it helps, but it $803.2 million. Park projects can Participatory Budgeting, a months- productive, notes Holliday, if the doesn’t light up the whole park.” be tracked via a website the agency long process where constituents de- park had high-powered stadium Those who remained are “deter- created. cide how they would want to spend lights, a sorely sought-after re- mined not to be a victim of their cir- The park has no recorded project $1 million in capital monies. Cohen source. In some ways, the glare of cumstance,” said Holliday, adding except a $750,000 skateboard area has adopted the program for the stadium lights, a slice-of-life rite the light issue impacts the evening funded by Councilman Andrew Co- second year in a row. Though con- for young athletes basking in their park goers taking an evening jog or hen, whose district covers Norwood, stituents have requested lights, pro- first-ever moments of gridiron engaging in some last-minute romp at the request of constituents. The curing them would typically cost glory, has slipped away. The pag- around the jungle gym. last major renovation work at the upwards of $1.5 million, though an eantry of football remains incom- Sheila Sanchez, president of Oval took place in 2013, when the engineer determines a true esti- plete for these young players want- Friends of the Williamsbridge Oval Oval’s newly renovated $5.2 million mate. ing some lights. (FOTWO), remains neutral on the Recreation Center opened. At the sidelines, parents be- “Many of the other parks we go installation. She has considered For lights to be installed, com- grudgingly accept the lack of through around the city--we com- factors that include “how invasive munity boards would provide input, lights. On the night of Nov. 3, Juan pete with other teams—they have they will be for the neighbors” re- according to Mario Lopez, a spokes- Diaz, a parent, noticed an ambu- the very lights we’re talking about,” siding in two-family homes and res- man for the Parks Department. lance had arrived to the park for said Holliday. “It’s extremely diffi- idences that hug the Oval. “Stadium lighting indirectly casts an emergency unrelated to football, cult to practice and it’s extremely Stadium lights would likely be light on the adjacent community its fiery sirens cutting the night. difficult to compete with organiza- considered a capital project, since as well, so the community board “That’s about the most lights we got tions that have lights.” it could be considered a park im- would have to be in agreement with in here,” said Diaz. The lack of adequate lighting has presented several inconveniences for the Bronx Knights, which was formed in 2012 by Holliday and his wife, Latanya Wilkinson. She stood on the sidelines, flashlight in one hand, as she manned a table ADVERTISE TODAY stacked with recently developed in the team photos. So far, they’ve taken the issue to the de Blasio Administration. Holli- day admits that while they “haven’t gotten the runaround, we haven’t Nearly 40,000 readers means 40,000 customers. gotten the result we’re looking for.” SELL YOUR BRAND. MAKE MONEY. For the 150 youngsters, playing football in total darkness serves Advertise in the Norwood News. Call 718-324-4998. as a test to their interest in football that comes with plenty of risk. With scant lighting, several young athletes have abandoned the sport altogether, dashing a rite that could very well serve as a ticket to higher aspirations. Others, such as Jonathan Jen- NORWOOD NEWS kins, a third-year quarterback for 2ESERVOIR/VAL%s"RONX .9 the club, stuck it out. But he’s long realized his disadvantage. “My receivers can’t see the ball in the dark,” said Jonathan, a 12-year- old who aspires to play high school football. www.norwoodnews.org Juan Carlos, a first-year corner- back, finds the no-light quandary 16 • November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News Public and Community Meetings Sex Pervert on the Run COMMUNITY BOARD 7 will hold its general board meeting on Nov. 17 at 6:30 p.m. at Serviam Gardens (auditorium), 323 E. 198th St. CB7 committee Police are asking for the public’s meetings are held on the following dates at the board office, 229A E. 204th St. help in tracking down a suspect at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted: Traffic & Transportation: Nov. 12; Vet- wanted for exposing himself to a 16- erans Committee: Nov. 12 at 7:30 p.m.; Housing/Land Use & Zoning: Nov. 18; year-old girl on board a bus in Kings- Environment & Sanitation: Nov. 23; Health & Hospitals: Nov. 23 at 7:30 p.m.; bridge Heights. Community Relations/LTP: Nov. 24; Economic Development: Nov. 24 at 7:30 Police said the incident happened p.m. For more information, call (718) 933-5650. Oct. 23 on the Bx9 bus at East Kings- bridge Road and the Grand Con- THE 52ND PRECINCT COMMUNITY COUNCIL meets on Nov. 19 at the course at around 8 a.m. The suspect Bedford Park Senior Center, 243 E. 204th St., from 7 to 9 p.m. For more infor- on the bus exposed himself to the mation, call (718) 220-5824. young victim by placing his private parts on her wrist. Police described the suspect as a male black standing at 5’8”, and weighing 200 pounds. He was seen wearing a beige sweater, collared shirt underneath, light blue jeans and an over-the-shoulder bag. Anyone with knowledge of the incident is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit tips by logging on to the Crime Stoppers website, www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or via text to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter www.norwoodnews.org TIP577. Calls will be kept strictly confi- dential. --David Cruz November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News • 17 Bronx Voters Choose First-Ever Female Bronx DA

By DAVID CRUZ, MICHAEL BROWN and Across the Bronx, there was no DAVID GREENE gathering at the Bronx Republican The race for Bronx District Attor- Headquarters in Morris Park. Siano, ney went as expected, with Bronx vot- a lawyer with offices in the Bronx and ers electing its first-ever female DA. White Plains, thanked supporters and Former Bronx Supreme Court offered his congratulations to Clark Judge Darcel Clark, a Democrat, de- via statement. “I look forward to serv- feated Robert Siano, a Republican, in a ing the public and I don’t know what DA race unseen in 27 years. The posi- the future holds, but I know I’m not tion had been held by Robert Johnson, going to stop trying,” said Siano, who who stepped down so he can run for a had only two weeks to campaign. state judgeship. Clark’s victory came under a cloud Clark secured 85.58 percent of the of suspicion by political observers vote over Siano’s combined 14.10 per- who accused the Bronx Democratic cent of the vote. The race, however, County Committee, and Heastie, an was viewed as a lock for Clark. With ally of Clark’s, in orchestrating her Photo by Michael Brown Jr. the Bronx overwhelmingly comprised victory with little competition. Many DARCEL CLARK, NEWLY elected Bronx District Attorney (center), approaches the of registered Democrats by 10 to 1, Sia- claimed Johnson was told to relin- podium during a celebratory get together on Election Night. Assemblyman Jeff Dinow- no’s chances of winning were consid- itz (left) and Speaker Carl Heastie (right) usher the DA-elect to the stage. quish his seat after easily winning the erably slim. September primary so the Judicial “I am truly, truly humbled that the The gathering certainly had a reli- friend Lindo Solis, had nothing but Convention can have the legal author- voters have provided me with the op- gious undertone, with the crowd sprin- praise to heap on her. “She’s an amaz- ity to nominate a party-friendly can- portunity to serve as the first woman kling several hallelujahs as Clark ing lawyer,” Solis said, further dub- didate. Johnson has vehemently de- District Attorney of our borough,” spoke. Clark, a devout Christian, took bing her a “sister come back home.” nied the charge, explaining through a said Clark, who stood before an elec- the stage after a brief introduction Charles Orvan, chief of staff of the statement that his decision was made trified crowd at Eastwood Manor. A from Speaker of the state Assembly, Bronx Clergy Task Force called Clark by him alone. few weeks ago, the Judicial Conven- Carl Heastie, who also represents the “a success story.” “Here’s a young lady For his part, Johnson easily won a tion held its meet at the same catering district Clark lives in. from Soundview projects. She’s not vis- seat in Bronx Supreme Court. His and venue to nominate her. Her supporters, including lawyer iting us; she’s from us,” said Orvan. Clark’s tenure will begin Jan. 1, 2016.

BRONX ELECTION DAY RESULTS Justice of the Supreme Court—12th Judicial District (Six Winners Represented in Bold) Candidate’s Name Party Number of Votes Percentage Sallie Manzanette Democratic 20555 15.60% Steve Mayo Republican 2731 2.07% Steve Mayo Conservative 1200 0.91% Dianne Renwick Democratic 19128 14.51% Mitchell J. Danziger Democratic 18256 13.85% Guy T. Parisi Republican 2458 1.87% Guy T. Parisi Conservative 1031 0.78% Lizbeth Gonzalez Democratic 21803 16.54% Christopher B. Garvey Conservative 2674 2.03% Robert T. Johnson Democratic 21756 16.51% Ruben Franco Democratic 19649 14.91% Write-In 554 0.42%

Judge of the Civil Court—Bronx County (Two Winners Represented in Bold)

Ben R. Barbato Democratic 20240 44.75% Marsha D. Michaels Democratic 24768 14.91% Write-In 224 0.50%

District Attorney—Bronx County (Winner Represented in Bold)

Darcel D. Clark Democratic 28,157 85.58% Robert Siano Democratic 3444 10.47% Write-In 224 0.50% (Source: New York City Board of Elections) 18 • November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News

Compiled by JUDY NOY

EDITOR’S PICK Walk With a Doc The public is invited to join a free one-hour walk in the park with the doctors at Montefiore, Nov. 21 at 1 p.m. at the Williamsbridge Oval. Walking can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, osteoporosis and obesity, improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels, maintain body weight, enhance mental well-being, and more. Meet at the Oval’s Recreation Center. For more information, call (718) 543-8672.

Onstage Miguel Algarín, writer/poet, Nov. 18 at 7 p.m. in the Longwood Art Gallery; Lehman College for the Performing and Artisans Fair and Book Expo, Arts, 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd., W., Nov. 21 from noon to 7 p.m. in the presents Lalo Rodriguez, 40 Años de main gym, C-lobby. Shows are subject Historia Musical, featuring 17-piece to change. For more information and orchestra performing salsa and Latin to reserve, call (718) 518-4455 or visit music, Nov. 21 at 8 p.m. Tickets are www.hostoscenter.org. $45 to $60. For more information, call (718) 960-8833. The Bronx Arts Ensemble presents Just for Kids with Lehman Children’s Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture, Theatre Company, “Ferdinand the 450 Grand Concourse, presents Bull,” Nov. 22 at 1 and 2:30 p.m., at songstress Choco Orta performing a the Whitehall Club Ballroom, 3333 tribute to Ruth Fernandez, Nov. 14 at Henry Hudson Pkwy. ($8). For more 7:30 p.m. in the Main Theatre (tickets: information, call (718) 601-7399. $25/orch; $20/mezz; $10/students and under 18); Henry’s Law performed The Bronx Academy of Arts & Dance by the Hostos Repertory Company, (BAAD), 2474 Westchester Ave. Nov. 19 to Dec. 4 (call for times), in the presents Behind the Language, Nov. Repertory Theatre (tickets: $10; free/ 13; In Our Skin, Nov. 14; and Souls of Our Feet: Blaktino Dance Concert, Photo courtesy Lehman Center for the Performing Arts students and under 18), a friendship LEHMAN CENTER FOR the Performing Arts presents Lalo Rodriguez, 40 develops when popular female student Nov. 21; all dance performances, all at Años de Historia Musical Nov. 21. is tutored by male socially awkward 8 p.m., all $20/each; and The Cruising student leading to cyberbullying; and Monologues, story of six people Danza Fiesta, featuring bomba, plena who cruise, walking or driving around and seis, Nov. 21 at 4 p.m. in the town in search of one-time casual, events, call (518) 436-4781. Main Theatre (tickets: $10; $5/seniors/ usually gay and anonymous, romance, The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. students). Also featured are free events featuring poetry and dance, Nov. 20 at Kingsbridge Rd., presents Salsa The public is invited to a Holiday (tickets are required): An Evening With 8 p.m. ($15). For more information, call is Nuyorican: Jose Obando Trio, Crafts Show, Nov. 21 and 22 from (718) 918-2110. lecture/demonstration and a dance noon to 6 p.m., at Vladek Hall, 74 Van lesson, Nov. 14 at 2:30 p.m. For more Cortlandt Pk. So. (corner of Hillman information, call (718) 579-4244/46/57 Avenue), to purchase handmade items or visit www.nypl.org. including beads, hats, jewelry, variety of clothing, and more. Refreshments will be available for sale. For more Events information, call (718) 796-9300.

Van Cortlandt Jewish Center, 3880 The Williamsbridge Oval offers Hip- Sedgwick Ave., holds its free 11th Hop Aerobics Classes, Thursdays Annual Bazaar and Carnival, Nov. 15 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. For more from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Events include information and to become a member, magic show at noon, free giveaways to call (718) 543-8672. children, silent auction, carnival games with prizes, raffle, food for sale, and Wave Hill, a Bronx oasis at 675 W. more. For more information, call (718) 252nd St. in Riverdale, offers Family 884-6105. Art Projects: Dances With Leaves, to create framed hangings of leaf Fordham University Rose Hill Campus, designs and prints, Nov. 14 and 15; 441 E. Fordham Rd., presents Latino and Cornhusk Dolls, to weave and College Fair, Nov. 21 from noon to 4 shape dried husks into a doll, with Photo courtesy Joshua Bright/Wave Hill p.m., including several workshops. For storytelling at noon, Nov. 21 and 22; THE CANAL STREET String Band headlines a folk concert at Wave more information and a schedule of both in WH House from 10 a.m. to Hill on Nov. 22. November 12-25, 2015 • Norwood News • 19 1 p.m. Also offered is Canal Street String Band Concert, Nov. 22 at 1:30 and 3 p.m. in the WH House, featuring folk and blues (tickets: $28/adults; $22/members; $15/ages 8 to 18; $12/ members. Grounds admission is free until noon Saturdays and Tuesdays all year. For more information and a schedule of events including tours and walks, call (718) 549-3200.

Library Events

The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd., presents the following events for children: Hands- on Projects at 4 p.m. (ages 7 to 12; preregistration required): Gingerbread Making, Nov. 12; and Turkey Making, Nov. 19; Family Time: (ages 3 to 6; preregistration required), reading aloud and crafts, Nov. 14 at 11 a.m.; and Chicken Sound From a Cup: (ages 7 to 11; preregistration required), Photo courtesy Jack Spiegel workshop to learn about sound, VOLUNTEERS AT LAST year’s Van Cortlandt Jewish Center bazaar sell old fashioned bric-a-brac items. Nov. 24 at 4 p.m. Adults can attend Microsoft Word 2010 for Beginners: Nov. 12 at 6 p.m. (advance in-person 21 at 1:30 p.m. Adults can attend: and 20; Kids Pajama Party: (18 months 549-5200. registration required). For more Free Computer Classes: to learn to 12 years), craft and read-alouds, Nov. information, call (718) 579-4244/46/57 email and basic computer information, 16 at 6 p.m.; Super Cool Science: (ages A HAPPY AND HEALTHY or visit www.nypl.org. Wednesdays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. For 5 to 12), hands-on experiments, Nov. 17 THANKSGIVING TO ALL OUR READERS! more information, call (718) 882-8239. at 4 p.m.; and Story Time for All: (ages 3 The Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th to 5), stories, music and crafts, Nov. 19 at NOTE: Items for consideration may St., offers for children: Chess Class The Jerome Park Library, 118 Eames 11:15 a.m. Teens/young adults can enjoy: be mailed to our office or sent to at 3:15 p.m.: (ages 6 to 12), from Place (near Kingsbridge Road), offers for Vision of Tile: workshop to carve, draw [email protected], and beginners to advanced, Nov. 13 and kids: Kids Get Active Fridays at 3 p.m.: and make impressions in clay, Nov. 18 should be received by Nov. 16 for the 20. Teens/young adults can enjoy: (ages 5 to 12), dance and zumba, Nov. 13 at 4 p.m. For more information, call (718) next publication date of Nov. 26. film: “Avengers Age of Ultron,” Nov.

Inner Goblins Run Rampant at Annual Pumpkin Smash

By VIVIAN CARTER composting pioneer since 2009, It’s become a popular post- displayed The Rocket, a closed Halloween ritual in the Bronx— system that processes almost the Pumpkin Smash at Lehman 12 gallons of food scraps a day College, sponsored by NYC from their food services depart- Compost Project, an initiative ment, one of only two such U.K.- of the City Department of Sani- designed devices in use in the tation. city. On Nov. 4, the community There were plenty of free was once again invited to con- snacks and compost informa- structively channel their inner tion, plus exercise opportuni- goblins, to create compost for ties. After lifting and hurling greening local parks. The New gourds for the compost pile, at- York Botanical Garden contrib- tendees could jump on a station- uted an impressive display of ary bicycle rigged to a blender hundreds of fading gourds and and make their own pumpkin pumpkins for dropping, and smoothies, or try some home- neighbors could donate their made pumpkin bread, local own drooping jack-o-lanterns Honeycrisp apples, and Bronx as well. Greenmarket Hot Sauce, made Participants chose a straight from Serrano peppers grown in drop from the two-story plaza the borough’s community gar- onto a tarp below, or a cata- dens. pult rigged to propel the gourds Jack-o-lanterns are still wel- onto a target. Lehman Col- come at food scrap drop-off lege’s President, Dr. Ricardo sites. Find a location near you Photo by Vivian Carter R. Fernandez, assisted with by searching online at: on.nyc. PUMPKIN SMASH! Participants at the Pumpkin Smash event hosted by NYC the smashing. The college, a gov/foodscrap-dropoffs. Compost Project drop a pumpkin from atop a Lehman College building Nov. 4. Own the home you want. On the terms you want.

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