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Neighborhood Notes
September 24, 2009
By Norwood News
Invisalign Open House
Concerned Dental Care – Dr. Jay Fensterstock DDS will host an open house on Invisalign for teens and adults at 55 E. Mosholu Pkwy., N. on Friday, Oct. 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Doctors and staff will be on hand to speak about Invisalign, a clear and wireless alternative to braces. For more information, call Margie Rivera at (718) 652-7370, ext. 12, or visit www.concerneddentalcare.com.
Relationships and Conflict Resolutions Seminar
The Life Skills Institute is offering a free seminar on Friday, Sept. 25 that will discuss conflict resolution and relationships. Dr. Lincoln Jailal will speak at the seminar, at The Bedford Park Congregational House, 3008 Bainbridge Ave. (at East 201st Street). For more information, call Norma DeJesus at (646) 316-9789 or Amy Lewis at (917) 597-8836.
Social Security Help
Congressman Eliot Engel’s Bronx office at 3655 Johnson Ave. will host representatives of the Social Security Administration on Wednesday, Sept. 30. Those with questions or issues concerning Social Security should call (718) 796-9700 to schedule an appointment which is required. For more information, visit www.ssa.gov.
Community Resource Fair
The University Neighborhood Housing Program is providing free banking advice at the Northwest Bronx Community Resource Fair on Sunday, Oct. 4 from 12:30 to 3 p.m., preceded by a free lunch at noon, at Our Lady of Refuge Parish Center, located at 290 E. 196th St. Fair attendees can attend several financial workshops, and financial, legal and immigration experts at the fair will offer appointments for a brief private counseling session. For more information and to RSVP, call (718) 933-2539.
Classes at BRAC
The Bronx River Art Center’s after-school and Saturday art program for ages 9 to 18 starts Oct. 5. Registration is open from Sept. 26 to Oct. 3. Classes include fine art such as painting and drawing, ceramics and cartooning, as well as digital media such as videography and digital photography. For more information, visit www.bronxriverart.org or contact Gail Nathan at (718) 589-5819 ext. 11 or gjnathan@bronxriverart.org.
Volunteer at VC Park
Volunteer at Van Cortlandt Park on Saturday, Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Projects include tree plantings and plant removal. Bring a snack and a drink. Volunteers will receive giveaways. For more information, call (718) 601-1553 or visit www.vancortlandt.org.
Free Mammograms
The Mobile Mammography Van offers free mammograms to women over age 40 who have not had one in the last 12 months. The van will be at MS 80, 149 E. Mosholu Pkwy. on Wednesday, Oct. 14. Call (718) 405-6300 ext. 1131 to make an appointment.
Volunteer at the Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden’s Explainer program is holding an open house for volunteer students ages 13 to 17 on Sunday, Sept. 27, from 2 to 4 p.m. Through the program, teens learn about plants, nature and people, and volunteer at the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden. For more information, call (718) 817-8079 or visit www.nybg.org.
HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
The Montefiore Medical Center’s AIDS Center and The Bronx HIV CARE Network will host their annual Latino HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Friday, Oct. 9 in the Cherkasky Auditorium at 111 E. 210th St. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a panel discussion from noon to 1 p.m. Educational materials on HIV prevention, blood pressure screenings, and free HIV testing will all be available. Also featured will be entertainment, guest speakers, and free raffle drawings. For more information, call Selma Torres at (718) 231-3296, ext. 23.
English Help
The Mosholu Library at 285 E. 205th St. is hosting free English conversation classes for foreign language speaking adults (ages 16 and over). Participants will talk to native English speakers about a variety of subjects. Registration and language testing begins on Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 6:30 p.m. and classes will meet on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. starting on Oct. 6. For more information, call (212) 340-0918.
Mothers Guild Reunion
The Mothers Guild of Our Lady of Refuge at 290 E. 196th St. is planning a reunion on Sunday, Oct. 18. Mass will be held at 12:30 p.m. followed by lunch in the Parish Center. For more information, call Bernadette Groarke at (914) 237-6928 or Joan Cintron at (718) 548-2493.
Volunteers Sought
New York Cares, a volunteer organization that organizes hundreds of volunteer projects, is seeking new volunteers in the Bronx. Volunteers must attend a one-time orientation on Sept. 26 from 11 a.m. to noon, to be held at the Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. To register or for additional orientation dates, visit www.newyorkcares.org, or call (212) 228-5000. After completing the orientation, volunteers will be able to participate in a variety of community service projects throughout the Bronx.
Bedford Park Flea Market
The Bedford Park Congregational Church will host its Annual Fun Fair and Flea Market at 201st Street and Bainsbridge Avenue on Oct. 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, contact Reverend Dr. Christopher Ponnuraj at (718) 367-8996.
Lane Closures
The University Heights/W.207 St. Bridge will require temporary lane closures from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. until Sept. 30. Construction will occur on the bridge between these hours. During construction, one lane will be available for traffic. During non-working hours all travel lanes are re-opened to traffic.
Child Care Workshops
The Jewish Child Care Association at 555Bergen Ave. will host a number of workshops beginning in November and ending in June of next year. For information about classes and dates call (212) 558-9930 or visit jccany.org.
Free Trees in September
Everyone from New York who becomes a member of the Arbor Day Foundation in September will receive ten free trees as part of the Foundation’s “Trees for America” campaign. To receive the ten free trees, send a $10 membership contribution to Ten Trees, Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, NE 68410, by September 30, 2009, or join online at www.arborday.org.
Program Registration at Montefiore Community Center
Registrations for fall programs at the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center at 3450 DeKalb Ave. have begun. The center is offering many different programs from services like childcare to children and adult classes ranging from flag football to belly dancing. Test preparation courses are also being offered. For more information including a complete program brochure, call the Center weekdays at (718) 882-4000 or visit www.mmcc.org.
Foster Parents Needed
The Foster Care Network is reaching out to potential foster parents in the Bronx. Hundreds of foster children in the area need loving and caring families to make a difference in their lives. Foster parents receive tax-free financial assistance for the expenses of each child, free training, and Foster Parent certification. For more information, call (800) 454-3727 or visit www.fostercarenetwork.org.
New IRS YouTube Channel
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has launched a series of videos on YouTube and podcasts on iTunes to help taxpayers take advantage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Visit www.youtube.com/irsvideos to view videos with tax tips and tips for how to utilize the Act’s provisions. Videos will be presented in English, Spanish and other languages. Audio footage with IRS tips will be available via podcast at iTunes, or on IRS.gov’s Multimedia Center for those without an iTunes account.
NMCIR Immigration Assistance
The Northern Manhattan Coalition for Immigrant Rights is offering immigration assistance to Bronxites. There is assistance with U.S. Citizenship, family petitions, and travel permits. It is offered at Refuge House, 2715 Bainbridge Ave., Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (718) 484-8294 or email info@NMCIR.org.
Bet For Pets
United Action for Animals will host their inaugural bet for pets casino night on Oct. 1 at 289 10th Ave. from 6:30 to 10:00 p.m. Tickets are $100 and include drinks, hors d’oeuvres, gambling, free ‘snip chips’, silent auction and raffle prizes. To buy tickets in advance visit www.ua4a.org.
Yoga and Cooking Classes
The South Bronx Food Cooperative is offering two courses: Beginners yoga classes on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m., Saturdays at 11 a.m. and classes en español Tuesdays at 3 p.m. (with a suggested donation of $10; bring your own mat or one can be provided).; and free cooking classes on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Classes will be held at the South Bronx Food Cooperative, 3103 Third Ave. at 158th Street. For more information or to RSVP, call (718) 401-3500 or email info@sbxfc.org.
Donate Backpacks to Homeless Kids
Bronx BP Ruben Diaz, Jr. is encouraging Bronx residents to donate backpacks and school supplies to “Operation Backpack” before the start of the new school year. “Operation Backpack” provides homeless children and students in New York City with backpacks and school supplies to help them succeed in school. To contribute, drop off a new backpack at the Bronx BP office at 851 Grand Concourse, Room 209. To find out more information about Operation Backpack or to make a donation, visit www.OperationBackpackNYC.org.
Scouting for Girl Scouts
Girls from 5 to 17 years old looking to serve the Bronx community, make friends and learn life skills are encouraged to join the Girl Scouts of the Bronx. For more information about joining a Girl Scout troop, visit www.girlscoutsnyc.org or email webbx@girlscoutsnyc.org.
Free Medicine Programs for Cancer Patients
The Complimentary Medicine Program at Albert Einstein Cancer Center is offering two free research programs for patients with cancer. The Yoga-Based Cancer Rehabilitation Program includes 12 weeks of yoga to see if yoga can help patients with breast, lung, and colorectal cancer. A certified yoga instructor teaches classes in both English and Spanish. The Mind-Body Cancer Program includes 8 weeks of Mind-Body groups (The Stress Management Education Group and the Spiritual Support Group) for patients with most types of cancer. Some restrictions apply to these groups, which have been specifically designed by a psychologist and an oncologist. For more information and to find out eligibility, call (718) 430-2380.
Breast Oncology Program
The Breast Oncology Living Daily Program also known as BOLD living offers a variety of free educational, support, and mind-body workshops. They are designed to empower and nurture breast cancer patients, survivors, and loved ones, but are open to all. For more information or to register, call (718) 430-3613 or email outreach@aecom.yu.edu.
Volunteer at North Bronx Healthcare
The North Bronx Healthcare Network is seeking volunteers for the Sexual Assault Treatment Program run at North Central Bronx Hospital, Jacobi Medical Center, and Lincoln Medical Center. Those interested should be willing to volunteer twice a month and commit to serving the program for one year. For more information, call (718) 519-4788.
Farmers Market at Botanical Garden
There will be an all day Wednesday and Saturday Farmers Market at the Botanical Garden through Nov. 14. The Wednesday market will be held near Tulip Tree Allee and the Saturday market will be across the street from the Garden’s Mosholu Gate entrance. Vendors from New York’s Hudson Valley region and beyond offer a variety of home grown products, meats and home baked goods. For more information, visit www.nybg.org/edible_garden/farmers_market.php or call (718) 362-9561 and press 403#.
MTA’s Trip Planner Voice
Trip Planner Voice is a telephone service that allows customers to access bus and subway travel itinerary information via telephone 24/7 without the need to wait to speak to an agent. Trip Planner provides customers with the best and most accurate directions, fare information, walking distances and scheduled connections to and from other transit modes and transfers. For more information, and to learn how to get mobile access, visit www.tripplanner.mta.info.
Aid for Veterans and Their Families
The Warriors Family Assistance Program, launched by the American Legion Auxiliary, comes to the direct aid of veterans and their families in New York State. Veterans and their families can apply for up to $1,500 in aid in maintenance grants, medical grants and employment opportunities. Any veteran who has served honorably within the last four years, or is currently serving in one of the Armed Forces, and is a NYS resident, is eligible to apply. All grants are non-repayable. For an application or more information, call (800) 421-6348.
Free Career Information Seminars
Lehman College Office of Continuing Education is holding free career information seminars for its non-credit certificate programs. For dates, times and locations of seminars, please call (718) 960-8512 or visit www.lehman.edu.ce.
Computer Classes at Williamsbridge Oval
The Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center, 3225 Reservoir Oval E., is holding computer classes on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Learn how to use the internet and MS Office software. For more information, contact Albert Davis or Tuwanda Ruffin at (718) 654-1851.
Free Prescription $aver Card
The NY State Health Department is accepting applications for the free New York Prescription $aver Card. The program offers discounts on thousands of prescription medications. It will serve low-income New Yorkers who are disabled or between the ages of 50 and 64. To be eligible, income for single individuals must be $35,000 or less, and $50,000 or less for married individuals. Medicaid and EPIC recipients are not eligible for the Prescription $aver Card. To learn more or apply, visit www.nyprescriptionsaver.fhsc.com or call (800) 788-6917. (TTY users should call (800) 290-9138.) Applications are also available at pharmacies.
School Salon Reopens
The School of Professional Beauty Care at Grace Dodge Career and Technical High School, 2474 Crotona Ave., has reopened The New Image Salon to the public. It’s open every Thursday afternoon from 2:45 to 5:30 p.m., offering a wide variety of salon services at reasonable prices. Prices range from $5 to $25. Graduating seniors in the school’s cosmetology program staff the salon, with a licensed cosmetologist on duty. For more information, call (718) 584-2700 ext. 5084.
Couples Needed for Research Study
Doctors at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center are looking for healthy couples between the ages of 22 and 50, and in a monogamous relationship for at least six months, to participate in a research study. The study will test a vaginal gel and the couple will be screened for sexually transmitted infections. Females will have a gynecologic exam and vaginal fluid collected and males will have a genital exam. Female volunteers will have four visits and be reimbursed $60 per visit, and males volunteers will have three visits and will be reimbursed $40 per visit. Females must be using hormonal contraception. All visits will take place at the Albert Einstein General Clinical Research Center. For more information, call Julie at (718) 430-3253 or email microbicide@aecom.yu.edu.
English, Citizenship and Computer Classes
-MS 80 at 149 E. Mosholu Pkwy N., is offering English as a Second Language (ESL) and General Equivalency Diploma (GED) classes. For those interested, or if you have any questions, call Mrs. Alejandro at (718) 405-6300 ext. 1131.
-St. James Recreation Center at 2530 Jerome Ave. offers free classes in Microsoft Office, Resume/Cover Letter Writing, Computer Basics, and much more. For more information, call Justin Young at (718) 367-3659.
-Fordham University, 557 E. Fordham Rd., is currently holding free computer and English Language classes for parents, Mondays through Thursdays and on Saturdays. Classes can either stand alone or as an 8- to 12-week series. For more information or to register, call (718) 817-3503.
Senior Employment
The American Association of Retired Person (AARP) and the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) are assisting low-income Bronx residents, 55 and older, to receive employment through their outreach, training, and internship programs. For more information, call AARP located at 384 E. 149th St., Ste. 608 at (718) 585-2500.
MS 80 Needs Love
MS 80 is asking parents and community members to show some love and volunteer for just an hour each week. The school needs mentors, math and reading tutors, part-time coaches and volunteers to help with cafeteria duty. For more information, call Ms. Alejandro (718) 405-6300 ext. 111.
MMCC Grade School & Teen Programs at Tracey Towers
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center is accepting registration for their free after school program at Tracey Towers, 40 W. Mosholu Pkwy. The program meets Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and is open to children in the third through sixth grades. From 6:30 to 9 p.m., the free Teen Center is open for youth ages 12 to 18. Programs include homework help, computers, arts and crafts, sports, acting, and quiet games. To register, stop by the Youth Community Room on the second floor of Tracey Towers and speak to Antoine Fields, or call him at (917) 482-5039.
Self Defense Classes
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center still has space in its boxing, karate, and self-defense classes for children, teens, and adults. To register or find out class times, call (718) 882-4000 ext. 0, or stop by the center at 3450 DeKalb Ave.
Free Meditation for Breast Cancer Survivors
The Montefiore-Einstein Cancer Center is offering a free 20-week course on meditation and stress management for breast cancer survivors. The course is part of a research study. To register or learn more, call Kimala Harris at (718) 430-2380 or e-mail kah2019@med.cornell.edu.
Place for Teens With Issues
The Power Project is a free program for teens ages 12 to 18 who are dealing with substance abuse and other problems. Located at 3464 Webster Ave., Power Project provides case management, individual and group counseling, trips, and is just a place to get away from it all. For more information, call (718) 515-7971.
Wii Games for Adults and Seniors
On Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4 p.m., adults and seniors can enjoy free Wii video games at the Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St. To sign up, go to the Adult Information Desk. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.
Free Parking Calendars
Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz is offering free New York City Parking Calendars to community residents. To receive one, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to his office at 3107 Kingsbridge Ave., Bronx, NY 10463, or stop by the office in person.
Free Career Workshops
The State University of New York, located at 3950 Laconia Ave., is offering free career workshops, including job readiness training, resume and cover letter preparation, help with job searches and computer skills, job placement assistance, an Office Skills Certificate Program, college prep and more. For more information, call (718) 547-1001 or visit www.NBX.SUNYEOC.org.
After School Care
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center, 3450 DeKalb Ave., provides after school care for children in elementary school. Children are transported from their schools in Norwood, Bedford Park, Williamsbridge and Van Cortlandt Village. The center provides a snack, help with homework, and an array of activities to keep children busy. Financial aid is available. For more information, call Ruth Moore, program registrar, at (718) 882-4000.
Schizophrenia Study Seeks Participants
A research study seeking new treatments for schizophrenia is looking for patients in the Bronx. Candidates must be 18 to 65 years old, diagnosed with schizophrenia at or before age 35 and currently on certain medications for schizophrenia. Patients can enroll through the first half of 2009. For more information, call (888) 988-6736 or go to www.cognitivestudy.com.
Job Opportunities
On Dec. 1, Mayor Bloomberg announced the expansion of free job placement services through New York City’s Workforce1 Career Centers. The centers provide personalized career counseling, interview training, resume/cover letter assistance, workshops and ESL classes. For more information, call the Bronx Workforce1 Center, 358 E. 149th St., (718) 960-7099.
Quality of Life Screening
The Psychosocial Oncology Program of the Montefiore-Einstein Cancer Center is conducting a survey study in order to learn about the physical and emotional stresses faced by cancer survivors. Participants will have to fill out questionnaires and have the opportunity to participate in free/low-cost programs and support services within the program. For more information, call (718) 430-2380.
Alzheimer’s Support Group
The Alzheimer’s Association’s New York City chapter provides a support group in Norwood for Spanish and English speaking caregivers who have relatives with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia. The support group meets on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 5 to 6:15 p.m. For the location or more information, call Mark Goodwin at (718) 920-7377.
Free Respite Program
Kingsbridge Heights Community Center (KHCC) is offering free after-school services to families with mentally retarded or developmentally disabled children ages 5 to 21 from 3 to 6 p.m. KHCC is also offering a Saturday Respite Program for ages 15 to 25, and on Sundays another Respite Program is provided for ages 18 to 65. Weekend Respite Program hours are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are held at the KHCC, 3101 Kingsbridge Terrace (near Sedgwick Avenue) at West 230th Street. To register or for more information, call Hanna Gabris at (718) 884-0700 ext. 202.
Speech Program at Ursula
The Mt. St. Ursula Speech Center, 2885 Marion Ave., is now accepting applications for its fall program. The center has openings for children ages 2 to 5 who are in need of speech and language services. Medicaid and other insurances accepted. For more information, call (718) 584-7679.
Aphasia Clinic Accepting Clients
The Lehman College Speech and Hearing Center, which provides therapy on a sliding scale payment schedule, is now accepting new clients in its recently expanded aphasia clinic. The clinic will provide individual and group therapy sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 1 p.m. and 2 to 3 p.m.; group therapy sessions also take place on Tuesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. Diagnostic and therapeutic sessions will be supervised by faculty members who are licensed by the NYS Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and certified by ASHA (American Speech Language Hearing Association). For more information, call Wanda Adams at (718) 960-8138.
Adult ESL Level 1and 2 Classes
Beginning September 2009 through June 2010, P.S. 94x will be offering Level 1 and 2 ESL classes on Tuesday and Thursdays from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. For more information, contact Ms. Seminario, at (347) 563-4772 or (718) 405- 6345. You can also come to room 201 for more information and for sign up.
Job Fair
Monroe College is hosting a part-time job fair at the Radisson Hotel in New Rochelle, New York, on October 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be no charge for employers interested in hiring at the fair. Employers should call 914-740-6480 to RSVP.
Out & About
September 24, 2009
By Judy Noy
Onstage
The Bronx Library Center, located at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, hosts two concerts: Early Chamber Music of Ludwig van Beethoven, performed by the Bronx Symphony Orchestra and Friends, Sept. 26 at 2:30 p.m.; and Grupo Caribe in Concert, Oct. 3 at 2:30 p.m. In connection with The Bronx Council on the Arts, the Center will also host playwright and BRIO winner Camille Darby for a reading from her play, “Sweetest Taboo,” on Saturday, Sept. 26 at 6 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.
Events
Bronx-born author Allen Jones, along with co-author and Fordham professor Mark Naison, will discuss his book, “The Rat That Got Away: A Bronx Memoir” on Oct. 1 at 4 p.m. at Fordham University’s Dealy Hall and on Oct. 9 at 8:30 p.m. at The Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse.
“Celia the Queen,” a special documentary film screening relating the story of Celia Cruz who influenced people all around the world through her music, will be shown at Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. Free tickets may be obtained at the school’s box office. For more information, call (718) 960-8833.
Join New York’s largest free bicycling event, which promotes healthy living, the Tour de Bronx. This event, which will take place on Oct. 18 (rain date: Oct. 25), offers both 25-mile and 40-mile rides with two starting points: the Bronx County Building at 10 a.m. at 161st Street and the Grand Concourse; and at 9 a.m. at the Fordham University’s Rose Hill Campus parking lot. The ride ends at the New York Botanical Garden with a Grand Finale Festival. To register or to volunteer, call (718) 920-7301 or visit www.tourdebronx.org.
Car-free Bronx Coalition presents Bronx on the Move, a car-free Saturday at Crotona Park, Sept. 26 from noon to 5 p.m. between Claremont Parkway and Crotona Park North (rain or shine), featuring family fitness events including zumba lessons inspired by traditional cumbia, salsa, samba and merengue music; guided bike ride starting in Crotona Park featuring free bike riding lessons for kids and adults and free simple bike repair; and free health screening and advice on healthy eating. For more information, call (718) 324-4466 or visit transalt.org/events/calendar.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse at 165th Street, presents Bronx Talks, a monthly series featuring Bronx-based writers and/or books about the Bronx. Luis “DJ Disco Wiz” Cedeño, hip-hop’s first Latino DJ, will be signing his memoir on Sept. 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. For more information, call (718) 681-6000 ext. 120, or visit www.bronxmuseum.org.
The New York Botanical Garden presents several events this fall: The Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden offers Gardens ‘Round the World featuring Caribbean Garden, a pinwheel-shaped plot garden featuring Caribbean crops; as well as Lenape Life which takes place Tuesdays through Fridays from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. through Sept. 27, and offers samples of freshly popped corn as well as succotash made with fruits from corn, beans, and squash. Visitors can sit inside an authentic wigwam and create a cornhusk doll. The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden will hold Ballet Among the Blooms, Sept. 26 from 3 to 5 p.m. Resplendent Roses will be on display in the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden, weekends through Oct. 11, and features care of roses during tours, gardening demonstrations, and Q&A sessions with experts. For more information and a detailed schedule, call (718) 817-8700 or visit nybg.org.
The Bronx Culture Trolley, a replica of a 20th-century trolley, transports visitors on the first Wednesday of every month (except January and September), to Bronx hot spots, ending at Sweetwaters Bar & Grill with jazz, and food and drink. A reception is held at the Hostos Art Gallery, 450 Grand Concourse (at 149th St.) at 5 p.m., followed by three trolley departures at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. New attractions are added monthly. Trolley ride is free. Riders can get on and off at any scheduled stop and spend as much time as they wish at any or all of the featured venues. Venues and activities vary each month. The next trip is on Oct. 7. For more information or to confirm, call (718) 931-9500 ext. 33 or log on to www.bronxarts.org.
Exhibits
Beyond Appearances, an exhibition bringing together a group of approximately 40 artists, includes painting, drawing, sculpture, video, and installation, will be on display Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., through Dec. 1 at the Lehman College Art Gallery, Fine Arts Building, 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W. A reception will be held Oct. 20 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) 960-8731.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse at 165th Street, presents an exhibition series commemorating the Grand Concourse’s centennial, featuring The Grand Concourse Commissions, through Jan. 4. Originally called the Grand Boulevard, the Grand Concourse celebrates its 100th year in 2009. For more information, call (718) 681-6000 ext. 120, or visit www.bronxmuseum.org.
Library Events
The Bronx Library Center has events for all ages:
For children and preschoolers, there is films, Sept. 30 and Oct. 7 at 4 p.m.; and Preschool Romp/Tales for the Teeny Tiny, Sept. 24, Oct. 1, 3 and 8 at 11 a.m.
Also, for school-aged children, there is Toddler Story Time, Sept. 26 at 11 a.m.; The Glow Show, Sept. 26 at 2 p.m.; and Make a Sparkling Spirals Mobile, Oct. 1 at 4 p.m.
All ages can enjoy Day of Dance Films, presented by the Library for the Performing Arts, featuring films of live performances, Sept. 30 from 2 to 7:30 p.m.
The Center is located at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road. For a detailed schedule, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.
The Jerome Park Library, at 118 Eames Place, presents Storytelling, Oct. 2 at 3:30 p.m.; and a film, Oct. 6 at 4 p.m.; both for school aged children. For more information, call (718) 549-5200.
NOTE: Items for consideration should be received in our office by Oct. 1 for the next publication date of Oct. 8.
Clothing Giant Funds Parks Program
September 24, 2009
By Norwood News
This past summer, national clothing chain American Eagle Outfitters gave $9,000 in funding to the Mosholu Preservation Corporation’s horticultural program to aid the Parks Department in cleaning, beautifying and maintaining parks in the community. In conjunction with the city’s Summer Youth Employment Program, Bronx high school students spent the summer working in parks, including Williamsbridge Oval, St. James, Devoe and Mosholu Parkway (pictured at right).
—Idalmi Acosta
Espada Sits Down With Local Business Leaders
September 24, 2009
By Megan Taylor
State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. met with leaders of the Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improvement District (BID) on Saturday, Sept. 12 to discuss economic development opportunities and community needs.
“This is the first time in my 25 years of community experience that someone has come to ask what we need and how the government can help the community,” said BID secretary Dennis O’Brien, who owns A & O Surgical Supply on Gun Hill Road. “We are the first BID he’s talked to and I think the meeting went extremely well.”
Espada, now the Senate majority leader, has been meeting with several other local community organizations, including the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center and the Fordham Road BID, as he tries to figure out how to allocate nearly $2 million in discretionary funding earmarked for local initiatives.
The money was supposed to be doled out by the time the budget was signed in April, but Espada has had trouble finding appropriate funding opportunities. In the spring, Espada attempted to give the money to two brand new nonprofit groups created by two employees of the south Bronx health center network under the senator’s control. But Democratic leaders rebuffed that effort.
He then tried to give the bulk of the money to the Bronx Chamber of Commerce to be a fiscal conduit for a series of programs he wanted to fund. But the Chamber declined to accept it, saying they are not suited to being a fiscal conduit.
Espada has been a lightning rod for criticism since he re-entered the Senate in January and is currently under investigation by the Bronx district attorney and state Attorney General Andrew Cuomo. Espada says the investigations are politically motivated by Democratic rivals.
At the Saturday morning meeting at El Presidente, O’Brien said Espada and the Jerome-Gun Hill BID discussed neighborhood improvements like shopping areas and security cameras. Though the BID has been instrumental in keeping streets clean and removing graffiti, “we need more security cameras,” O’Brien said.
Ed. Note: Norwood News is published by Mosholu Preservation Corporation which manages the Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improvement District.
Gridiron Heroes Back in Action: Clinton Edges Wagner
September 24, 2009
By Molly Ryan
High School football is back in full force across the Bronx. On Sept. 18, DeWitt Clinton’s varsity football squad just managed to squeak by Susan Wagner for a victory of 22-20.
The game’s excitement all boiled down to the 4th quarter. At the beginning of this final quarter, Wagner was up 8-6, but as the clock ticked down, Clinton managed to outscore Wagner by earning two touchdowns.
Throughout the game, Clinton effectively relied on rushing the ball and ended the game with 263 total rushing yards. The two top rushing players were Alonzo Merchant with 111 yards and Anthony Smith with 101 yards. Both Merchant and Smith had one touchdown each.
Smith clearly made his mark in the game not only by rushing, but also by having six tackles. Jovanny Perez had 11 tackles for the defensive line.
So far, Clinton has two wins and one loss. Their next game is on Sept. 26 at noon at New Dorp.
JFK Winless
Unfortunately, John F. Kennedy High School has not had a winning start to its football season. Currently, Kennedy is 0 and 3.
In their last game against Tottenville on Sept. 17, Kennedy was able to score one touchdown in the fourth quarter but lost the game 26–6. Isiah Sledge, the quarterback, scored the touchdown.
Evander in a Blowout
Last week, Evander Childs destroyed Franklin K. Lane Campus on Sept. 18 for its first win of the season, 40-0.
Evander completely bypassed throwing the ball and instead rushed the ball for the entire game. The rushing champion of the game was Davian Gauntlett who had three touchdowns and 220 yards.
On the defense, Nimrel Grant had four sacks and six tackles. Shyreik Marsh had eight tackles.
Norwood Heading Downhill
September 24, 2009
By None
My name is Robert Lopez. I’m a longtime Norwood resident. When I first moved to Norwood by Gun Hill Road and Jerome Avenue, the neighborhood was mainly middle class, working folks. It was a very desirable, quiet and convenient place to live with mass transit and shopping around the corner. Fast forward to the present, I am sad to say that within the past five to six years, and despite some nice curb-appeal improvements like new street trees and renovated parks in Norwood, I have noticed the working class fleeing out of Norwood in disgust of what the neighborhood is becoming as the working class in Norwood is slowly being replaced by people on public assistance, Section 8, HASA and other city subsidized programs. Of course I am not saying all subsidized people are low-class. However, as we all know, the “bad apples” ruin it for the good ones. It is these “bad apples” that I refer to.
This demographic shift is happening because of the gentrification occurring in the south Bronx, Washington Heights and Harlem for the past decade or so. The displaced tenants from that area are forced to move further north like Norwood for affordable housing.
While the south Bronx, Washington Heights and Harlem improves, the north Bronx gets worse and becomes a dumping ground for troubled low-income people with issues. I’ve seen two particular apartment buildings in Norwood being converted into half residential, half homeless shelters, giving the working residents in Norwood another reason to flee the area while increasing the neighborhood drug dealer’s clientele. As a result, the quality of life in Norwood has slowly been diminishing by allowing these “bad apples” to infiltrate and corrupt our lovely Norwood neighborhoods.
Before you know it, the north Bronx is the new south Bronx. Do we really want that for our community?
As a longtime resident who cares, I believe it is important to expose this trend and hopefully spark change in the community because if this continues, in a matter of years, the damage can be too far gone to totally stop and Norwood will be transformed into a slum.
–Robert Lopez
Housing Trouble
September 24, 2009
By Editorial
In the most recent issue of our sister newspaper, the Tremont Tribune (covers the neighborhoods of Community Board 6), we report on a troubling trend of over-leveraged landlords finding themselves in hot water in buildings they paid way too much for. Fordham Towers is exhibit #1, but it is only one of many buildings facing, or on the brink of, a crisis.
Advocates who have watched previous waves of unwise lending and irrational speculation wreak havoc on Bronx blocks, saw the trouble coming months and even years ago when purchase prices way exceeded multiples of the rent roll that buyers use, or should use, to gauge sustainability.
“It is a surprise to absolutely nobody who was looking at this two years ago,” housing advocate Dina Levy of the Urban Homesteading Assistance Board told the Tribune.
The reckless lending and purchasing is eerily reminiscent of the late 1980s and early 1990s when the quasi-federal agency Freddie Mac looked the other way while landlords took loans they couldn’t afford on residential buildings, leading to a free-fall in maintenance and foreclosures in scores of residential buildings.
University Neighborhood Housing Program was the first to raise the red flag on Freddie Mac and they regularly have issued reports on troubling housing finance trends over the last several years.
The city, policymakers, and banks must do something to soften the blow that is sure to affect thousands of innocent tenants. And while they are at it, they would do well to listen closely to advocates who have their ears to the ground, resolve to learn from this latest wave of irresponsibility and vow not to let it happen again.
(To read the Tremont Tribune story, go to www.tremonttribune.org.)
Voter Atrophy
September 24, 2009
By Editorial
We just had a very competitive primary election in two City Council districts.
But the turnout was pathetic.
Less than 10 percent of registered Democrats — i.e. those who were eligible to vote — went to the polls. The citywide turnout was similar, not that that’s much of a consolation.
Why is that?
It’s hard to know exactly.
Maybe part of the problem was that there was such a low-profile Democratic primary for mayor and no Republican primary.
Or maybe the extension of term limits really turned people off since they had already voted twice for two-term limits for city politicians.
But we suspect that the main reason is that most people just don’t know who their City Council member is or what he does. And maybe that’s the fault of each individual voter.
But we can’t just leave it at that. The City Council decides the budget and passes every local law that affects everything from sanitation to housing, to hospitals, parks and schools. Individual Council members bring neighborhood issues to the Council, a critical task in the nation’s largest city. They also fund local projects and initiatives.
State legislators, all of whom will be up for election next fall, also allocate funds and make laws.
As we’ve said numerous times before on this page, low voter turnout means less accountable politicians and less responsive government.
So, what’s to be done?
Should we require civic education in the schools so that young people grow up understanding and participating in city government?
Should local organizations make more of an effort to educate voters about the issues at stake?
If you’re reading this newspaper, you must care about your community. So, what do you think? E-mail us at norwoodnews@norwoodnews.org and we’ll publish your suggestions in our next issue.
Labor Chief Trumka Weighs In on Armory
September 24, 2009
By Jordan Moss
Newly elected AFL-CIO president Richard Trumka, the nation’s top labor leader, touched down in the Bronx on Tuesday afternoon to stand with local activists and union members in their ongoing struggle to exact significant concessions from The Related Companies, the developer of the Kingsbridge Armory project.
Trumka met with members of the Kingsbridge Armory Development Alliance (KARA) in a church on Reservoir Avenue and then spoke to union members and the press across the street in front of the landmark facility.
He said the choice at the Armory is between developing a project that is the “center and heart of this community,” or merely a “profit center for the developer.” He added, “People of conscience cannot allow this to become a profit center,” and he echoed KARA’s demands for a Community Benefits Agreement and living wage jobs.
The visit was clearly intended to ratchet up the pressure on politicians poised to weigh in on the development. Earlier this month, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz issued a negative recommendation to the City Planning Commission, which will vote on The Related Companies’ proposal on Oct. 19. Then the City Council will have the final say. Local Council members, including Oliver Koppell and Maria Baez, have indicated that they do not support the inclusion of a big-box supermarket at the Armory, but they are holding their cards close to their vests on how the other labor issues like the living wage will factor in to their vote.
Meanwhile, Diaz, who has been trying to reach out to Related in hopes of crafting an agreement, says he has not received a response from the developer.
Stuart Appelbaum, head of the Retail Workers and Department Store Union (RWDSU), the local labor leader who invited Trumka to the Armory, said that “bringing the head of the AFL-CIO in the first week after he is elected sends a powerful message about what working people want in economic development. We hope the mayor and all elected officials hear that message. “
Trumka said he was impressed by the labor-community coalition organized by KARA. “We see it as a model to replicate all over,” he said.
Law Enforcement’s Next Generation Gets a Boost
September 24, 2009
By Molly Ryan
What students want, students get.
After Monroe College student surveys showed a strong interest in developing a master’s program in criminal justice, the college responded by creating a Master of Science program to accompany their Bachelor of Science program in criminal justice.
The new graduate school, which began classes on Sept. 9, will provide a “good, rigorous education” for students, according to Donald E. Simon, assistant vice president for governmental affairs.
Among these new students is Denise Mitchell, a returning alumna from the bachelor’s program in criminal justice. “I feel like I came back home,” beamed Mitchell, as she filled out her course schedule in August.
Mitchell is enthused about her M.S. because it will allow her to fulfill her desire to become a probation or parole officer, which in turn will help her control juvenile delinquents and drug abusers. For Mitchell, the most rewarding aspect of working in a criminal justice field is “seeing people get the justice they deserve.”
Another Master’s student, Marielle Garcia, who received her Associates in Criminal Justice from Monroe, was also excited to return to the Bronx campus this fall. Garcia, who aspires to work in criminal justice and possibly pursue a career in law, said that she chose Monroe because “the faculty cares more for the students than the organization. The faculty is always welcoming, very friendly, and student oriented.”
The Master’s in Criminal Justice faculty is headed by Dr. Basil Wilson, the Assistant Dean of the school. Previously, Wilson served as a provost, Senior Vice President and teacher at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice and has over 35 years of experience in the criminal justice field.
Wilson explained that there is a need for graduate degrees in criminal justice because the field is becoming “increasingly professionalized, demanding graduate degrees.” In order to obtain competitive, higher level management positions in city and federal agencies, “knowledge of criminal justice literature, a critical perspective and problem solving skills” are all necessary, said Wilson.
At Monroe, students can expect to have an “agile professional faculty,” said Wilson. Courses offered will expound the “impact of globalization” on the criminal justice system and teach students about leadership, crime mapping, international terrorism and disaster preparedness. Wilson also hopes to “synchronize theory with practice” by integrating hands-on activities with logical thinking and writing in courses.
In one class titled “Perspectives on Drugs and Alcohol in the Criminal Justice System,” the professor, Jeffrey Gardiere, said he will combine theory and practice by “bringing in real life stories that allow students to apply their critical thinking skills.”
A student in Gardiere’s class, Debra Martinez, is already head over heels about the master’s program. “I’m in love with it [the master’s program] and I’m in love with learning,” she said.
Monroe is currently accepting applications for the winter semester of the criminal justice master’s program. For student convenience, all classes will be offered at night and online.
Impact Leaves Five-Two
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
For the past three years, the 52nd Precinct has enjoyed the extra officers provided by the Police Department’s Operation Impact program, which floods precinct trouble spots with foot-patrolling rookie cops. Lately, Impact officers were concentrated on the Fordham Road corridor and also north of Fordham up to Kingsbridge Road.
But in mid-August, the 52nd Precinct lost its Impact officers to the 40th Precinct, which was dealing with an outbreak of shootings.
With only a small class of police cadets scheduled to graduate in December due to budget constraints, it is unclear when the successful program will return. Impact has long been criticized because it works when it’s in place, but crime tends to return when it packs up and moves.
52nd Precinct Commander to Retire
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
The commanding officer of the 52nd Precinct, Deputy Inspector James Alles, will be retiring in the middle of next month.
Though Alles is still technically on active duty, the head of the Five-Two has been replaced on an interim basis by his second in command, Captain Phil Rivera, who will remain in charge until a replacement is found.
For the past six months, Alles has missed several weeks of work because of an undisclosed illness that has required a series of surgeries, according to Community Affairs Officer Wilson Hernandez.
At a meeting last week, members of Community Board 7, which presides over a district contiguous with the 52nd Precinct, complained about police response times and a lack of attention to quality-of-life issues such as graffiti, noise and prostitution. They also lamented that, despite several invitations, Alles had never spoken or appeared at a Board 7 meeting.
Hernandez, who usually attends the meetings on behalf of the Five-Two, responded to the criticism partly by telling the crowd that Alles will be retiring at the end of September and that Rivera will be in charge until a replacement is found.
He added that the precinct is stretched thin because of manpower issues, which often leaves quality-of-life calls lower on the priority list.
One of the rumors floating around the precinct was that the head of the smaller and less busy 50th Precinct, John J. Dadamo, might be transferred to the Five-Two, Hernandez said. Calls to the 52nd Precinct and NYPD headquarters were not returned by press time.
In early 2007, Alles, 47, was transferred to the 52nd Precinct after a successful stint in the east Bronx’s 45th Precinct.
During Alles’ tenure, crime, at least in terms of the seven major crime statistics released publicly (murder, rape, car theft, grand larceny, robbery, felony assault and burglary), has remained flat, though grand larcenies spiked significantly last year.
But quality-of-life issues have become increasingly problematic to neighborhood residents and Alles has been criticized by Board 7 and others, for not being present at community meetings. He did, however, address community concerns at two public safety meetings, one in November of 2007 and another in January of this year, both at Our Lady of Refuge Church on East 196th Street.
Public and Community Meetings
September 24, 2009
By Norwood News
• The 52nd Precinct Community Council will meet on Thursday, September 24 at 7:30 p.m. at Ustin Hall at Monroe College (2375 Jerome Ave.). For more information, call (718) 220-5824.
• The District 10 Community Education Council will be having a special hearing, the “Contract for Excellence Hearing,” on Sept. 30 at 6 p.m. The hearing will take place at the Jonas Bronck Academy at 400 E. Fordham Rd. For more information, call (718) 741-5836 or email cec10@schools.nyc.gov. [Update (9/30/09): the hearing date was changed and held on Sept. 29.]
• The CB7 Sanitation/Environmental Committee Meeting will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. All committees meet at the Community Board Office, 229A E. 204th St. For more information, call (718) 933-5650 or visit www.bronxcb7.info.
• Community Board 7 will hold a Public Safety Hearing on Tuesday, Oct. 13 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Our Lady of Refuge Church at 290 E. 196th St. For more information, call (718) 933-5650 or visit www.bronxcb7.info.
Bronx Dems Endorse Liu
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
The Bronx County Democratic Committee voted to endorse Queens Councilman John Liu in the Sept. 29 runoff election for the citywide Comptroller position. Liu was the leading vote-getter in the crowded Democratic primary, but failed to get the 40 percent needed to avoid a runoff with second-place finisher David Yassky, a councilman from Brooklyn. But it wasn’t a unanimous decision. The Benjamin Franklin Reform Democratic Club, made up of the Riverdale political establishment, broke ranks and endorsed Yassky.
[Update (9/30/09): Liu easily defeated Yassky in the runoff election on Sept. 29.]
Engel on Health Care Reform
September 24, 2009
By Katie Riordan
In a slew of press releases over the summer, Bronx Congressman Eliot Engel has made it clear that he has no intention of maintaining the status quo in terms of health care reform.
Engel, who is a senior member on the Health Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, has been very outspoken, demanding that the President and Congress act immediately on legislation that would make health insurance available to those he says who have “no choices and provide competition to bring down the rates for everyone else.”
“For there to be effective reform to our broken healthcare system, there must be a robust public option,” Engel said. “This is the best way, short of a single-payer system, to hold costs and keep insurance companies in check.”
Although Engel was an early advocate of a single-payer plan, and maintains his support for such a policy, an early count in the House reveals that such a plan would not pass. The Congressman now says he would accept a public option, “at a bare minimum.”
While addressing seniors in Riverdale and at a tele-town hall meeting (he spoke with hundreds of constituents in a conference call) last month, Engel defended a strong public option plan, and took questions to try and get constituents on board.
“I was pleased to be able to explain some of the components of the legislation, and to dispel some of the myths regarding lost coverage, illegal immigrants and the so-called, ‘death panels,’” he said.
In a press release from last week, the Congressman was very critical of the Senate’s health reform bill.
“I would have preferred the Senate Finance Committee to have introduced a bill having sharper teeth in it than the one Senator Max Baucus presented today.”
Engel called the legislation “watered-down” and a “‘bipartisan’ bill without actually having bipartisan support.” He also expressed his belief that the bill could especially hurt the people of New York because of its high cost of living.
Engel claims there are 91,000 uninsured individuals in his congressional district which includes the northwest Bronx, as well as Westchester and Rockland counties.
Bronx Holds Annual 9-11 Memorial Service
September 24, 2009
By David Greene
Bagpipers play at the Bronx County Courthouse on Sept. 9 for the annual 9-11 memorial service. For the first time, a new borough president, Ruben Diaz Jr., addressed an audience of people who had lost a loved one to the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center eight years ago. It’s an annual event at the Courthouse, but the first without former B.P. Adolfo Carrion, who’s now working in the Obama administration. He spoke eloquently and talked about the 143 victims who lived or worked in the Bronx who died that day. “They were people who served us, they were people who worked for us, they were individuals who protected us,” he said. “They were our friends, our family, our neighbors.”
Tapia Loses Primary Battle, but Vows To Fight On
September 24, 2009
By Molly Ryan
Although Yudelka Tapia came in third in the District 14 City Council primary election behind the incumbent Maria Baez and the projected winner, Fernando Cabrera, she still plans to keep on fighting to improve the Bronx.
“I will do the same thing that I have been doing for 20 years—fighting for better housing, fighting for better education, fighting against domestic violence, fighting for the immigrants and fighting for the young people,” Tapia said.
Tapia’s campaign for District 14 City Council was a roller coaster ride of ups and downs, ultimately ending in a drop-off. While Tapia received a last minute endorsement from the New York Daily News, she struggled with many controversies. For one, she fired her former campaign manager, Onix Sosa, who went on to work for the scheming State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. and was recently exposed as a slumlord.
Right before the primary, another one of Tapia’s former political advisors, Victor Solis, accused Tapia of refusing to pay back a loan of $6,000 to his friend, Carlos Garcia. Tapia declined to comment on the loan scandal, and said, “That is a personal thing that has nothing to do with my campaign.”
Now that the primary election is over, Tapia plans on helping her former opponent, Fernando Cabrera, in his new role as Councilman.
Although she relentlessly attacked Cabrera for being a former Republican and living outside of the district until recently, Tapia said she’s made peace with him. “I called him to let him know that my intentions are for the best of the community,” she said. “I am ready to work with him.”
Bronx Ghanaians Showing Strength
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
Sam Aboah looked around with pride at the dark-skinned and brightly-dressed crowd of people gathered in the Bronx’s Crotona Park on a hot Sunday afternoon in August.
He was surveying the results of the first-ever Ghanaian parade and festival and the culmination of months of hard work by himself and many of his fellow Ghanaian transplants.
“The important thing to know is that the Ghanaian population is growing here in New York,” Aboah said.
In 2000, there were 24,842 people living in New York City who either were born in Ghana or have Ghanaian ancestry according to Census figures. According to the latest estimates, from 2007, there are more than 50,000 Ghanaians now living in the city, with the majority residing in the Bronx.
There are whole buildings and blocks in the borough dominated by Ghanaians. Aboah called Tracey Towers on Mosholu Parkway, where roughly half the tenants are of Ghanaian descent, “Ghana House.” And there are high concentrations of Ghanaians near Crotona Park, on the upper Grand Concourse and in Co-op City.
As Aboah spoke, the heavy sound of bass from Ghanaian pop music boomed in the background. A handful of young ladies danced together in a style that was half African, half American hip-hop.
A group of elders, draped in traditional bright primary colors and mammoth gold jewelry looked on stoically. Young men wearing expensive jeans and diamond earrings punched their iPhones.
It was gold rings meets new bling.
“We’re trying to bridge the gap and create unity between the elders and the youth,” said Mohammed Mardah, another of the Ghanaian festival’s organizers. “We want [the youth] to know their culture.”
“[Events like these] makes us feel like we’re in Ghana, but we’re not,” said 25-year-old Nana Danso.
Derek Darko, 21, was born in Ghana, grew up in England and now lives and goes to school in Queens. He said staying in touch with his Ghanaian heritage and culture is a state of mind. “It depends on you, who you are,” he said.
Yet another event organizer, Tony Essien, a native Ghanaian, moved to the Bronx 25 years ago. He owns a small bar in the south Bronx on 138th Street called Oze Tavern. His two children were born in the Bronx.
The aims of the event were not only to bridge the gap between young and old, Essien says, but also to develop the Bronx Ghanaian population’s political voice. He cited the Puerto Ricans and Dominicans as ethnic groups that have leveraged their numbers into political strength.
Ghana was the first African country visited by Barack Obama after he became president earlier this year. Essien says Ghanaians in the Bronx are hoping to build on that momentum and get organized locally. “It’s always tough getting people together,” he said, “but this is a good turnout, a good start.”
Danso and Darko both liked the idea of the Ghanaian community growing its presence in the Big Apple. “It’s great to know that your country is known,” Danso said.
The Cabrera Campaign’s "Life"-blood
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
At Fernando Cabrera’s primary victory party at Maestro’s catering hall last Tuesday, a young man wearing a blue Cabrera T-shirt introduced himself to a reporter.
“I’m James Bond,” he said.
His real name, actually, is John Zaccaro. He’s a 20-year-old La Guardia Community College student who lives in Kingsbridge, but for the last several months during Cabrera’s contentious campaign for the 14th District City Council seat, he posted comments on political blogs (like the Norwood News’ Bronx News Network blog) as “James…James Bond.”
He’s also one of more than 100 members of Cabrera’s New Life Outreach International Church who got off their pews and stepped into politics this primary season. New Life was the lifeblood of his successful campaign to unseat Maria Baez.
It was evident at Maestro’s where the majority of those celebrating identified themselves as New Life members.
Zaccaro and others, like 22-year-old City College political science student Timothy Tapia, spent countless unpaid hours petitioning, knocking on doors and responding to attacks (and they were numerous and spiteful) on blogs and other Web stories.
Many of them had never been involved in a political campaign. And other than Tapia, most of them had no real political aspirations. But they all shared a strong belief in Cabrera, their pastor, mentor and, sometimes, father figure.
“We believe in him as a pastor and as a man,” said Zaccaro, who, as an adolescent being raised by a single mom, began hanging out on the streets and running with the wrong crowd until he joined New Life. “Now, my whole family serves God,” he said.
Tapia lost a cousin last Thanksgiving and Cabrera showed up to comfort his family at their holiday meal. “That’s the kind of man he is,” Tapia said.
Everyone contributed to the campaign in his or her own way.
Carlos Feliciano, 28, is a youth minister at New Life who often sings the Christian pop songs that dominate services at the Morris Avenue church.
Feliciano, a counselor at a Brooklyn charter school, worked on the campaign during his summer vacation. On his computer’s Garage Band music program, Feliciano composed three campaign theme songs, all with the same lyrics but in different styles: R&B, meringue and reggaeton.
The lyrics were simple; they consisted of the candidate’s name, “Fernando Cabrera,” over and over again. “It was catchy,” Feliciano said.
Feliciano and others all said the most eye-opening aspect of the campaign was how people in the community were starved for real leadership, political or otherwise.
“The question is not only what can Cabrera do politically, but what can he do as a spiritual leader?” Feliciano said.
Primary Victory For Koppell
September 24, 2009
By Jordan Moss
Overcoming a feisty, well-financed challenger as well as considerable political turbulence for championing the extension of term limits and breaking with allies in a divisive battle for party leadership in the borough, Council Member Oliver Koppell secured the Democratic nomination on Sept. 15 and a certain path to a third term.
The veteran Riverdalian politician, who entered public life as an assemblyman in 1970, defeated challenger Tony Perez Cassino, the former chairman of Community Board 8 and founder of a rival political club, 64 to 36 percent. Much of the district is in Riverdale and Kingsbridge, but Koppell won Norwood and Bedford Park by an almost identical margin.
Though competing in a favorable climate for challengers in the city — up to six may have succeeded in ousting incumbents — Cassino couldn’t overcome Koppell’s enduring favorite-son status and a loyal and experienced cadre of die-hard supporters, even including those who shook their heads and muttered their displeasure when Koppell sided with Bronx Democratic Party chairman Jose Rivera in his unsuccessful bid to hold on to power last year.
Shortly after the polls closed at 9 p.m. on primary night, Koppell volunteers started streaming into the storefront headquarters of the Benjamin Franklin Reform Democratic Club on East 231st Street in Kingsbridge, many with vote-tally sheets in hand. At 9:16 p.m. the club’s chief strategist, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, announced, “We know he won. The question is by how much.”
Campaign staff were busy entering the numbers collected directly from many of the district’s voting precincts into a computer spreadsheet.
After the narrow storefront filled beyond capacity with supporters, including his wife, children and grandchildren, Koppell, 69, jumped up on a chair and delivered a thundering victory speech, saying he was “enormously grateful for this affirmation that comes from every part of this district.” Koppell also interpreted the results as vindicating his unwavering position on term limits, a central issue in the campaign.
“I’m opposed to it because voters have a choice,” he told the cheering crowd, pointing to his own competitive primary.
(While voters did have a choice between Koppell and Cassino, the field narrowed considerably when two other challengers dropped out early in the campaign primarily because of the term limits extension. Koppell told the Norwood News that he probably won’t run again but that he would nonetheless recommend to any City Charter Revision Commission that term limits be eliminated completely.)
Meanwhile, the Cassino camp gathered at Ibiza, a bar on West 242nd Street near Manhattan College where, despite the nightclub atmosphere, the mood was obviously more subdued.
Cassino said he had no regrets after running a “hard campaign” and leaving “no stone unturned.” He said he “emerged from this with a great respect for the process.”
He did lament the paltry turnout where only 7,000 people voted in a district with 64,000 registered Democrats, a highly anemic showing replicated citywide. “That’s the only thing I walk around with sadness about,” he said.
Cassino said he would continue directing the pro bono division of the Manhattan law firm he works at and would “continue to work on issues I care about,” on the community board and as chairman of the Van Cortlandt Park Conservancy.
The one-on-one race was spirited but bitter at times. Koppell and Cassino participated in several debates together, including one organized by the Norwood News. They locked horns on several issues while sitting shoulder to shoulder, but, unlike many other debateless races in the borough, the meetings thoroughly probed issues affecting the community.
Because the candidates were competitive financially, campaign literature from both poured into local voters’ mailboxes, and the attacks became more severe as the primary drew closer.
In a phone interview on Monday, Koppell said Cassino’s campaign “was the best campaign run against me,” adding that the term limits issue added fuel to the fire. He believes his own campaign was invigorated by a large crop of energetic volunteers, including several young people.
Though he is virtually assured of victory in the general election on Nov. 3, he nonetheless will face Conservative Stephen Bradian and Republican Stylo Sapaskis.
Among his legislative priorities in 2010, Koppell said that in response to the city’s controversial program of placing homeless families in residential buildings, he is drafting legislation to require more community board input and to prohibit placing families in buildings that have “C” — the worst — violations.
Cabrera Takes Primary; Baez Goes on Vacation
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
Fernando Cabrera, a 45-year-old pastor and college professor who, a little more than a year ago switched political parties and moved to the Bronx, is poised to become the new City Council representative for the 14th District.
Following an official recount, Cabrera narrowly defeated incumbent Maria Baez by 75 votes to secure the district’s Democratic nomination in the upcoming general election on Nov. 3. (Update: the Board of Elections Certified the election results on Sept. 25.)
Cabrera may face a token Republican challenger in November, but the Board of Elections could not confirm whether or not anyone had made the ballot. Regardless, in the heavily Democratic 14th District, which includes parts of Kingsbridge, University Heights and Mt. Hope, Cabrera is all but assured of filling Baez’s Council seat come January.
With all precincts reporting on primary night, Cabrera had 1,937 votes (38 percent) to Baez’s 1,847 (37 percent). City auditor and community activist Yudelka Tapia finished third with 1,250 votes (25 percent).
“You did it and God did it,” Cabrera told a spirited group of around 100 supporters during his victory speech at a primary night party inside Maestro’s catering hall in Morris Park.
“Some people questioned whether this was going to happen,” Cabrera said. “I’m here to tell you that not only was it going to happen, it did happen!”
Soon after the results were announced, two young women, volunteers with the campaign, embraced and started rocking back and forth, smiling. “We did it,” one of them said.
Across the borough, inside the Monte Carlo nightclub on Jerome Avenue near Kingsbridge Road, the Baez camp was decidedly less cheerful. There were about 30 supporters, many of them paid campaign workers, milling about, watching the results on television.
Primary night ended with Baez trailing Cabrera by a mere 90 votes. There would be a recounting of all the machine ballots as well as the tallying of absentee and any other paper ballots. Though obviously sullen, Baez attempted to strike a defiant tone as she addressed her team.
“This is not over,” she told the small crowd, which included Assemblyman Jose Rivera as well as Council colleague (and Jose’s son) Joel Rivera. “I see everyone, like, sad. We’re not sad, we’re happy. It’s one percent [of the vote] so let’s just relax.”
Later, Baez said, “It’s not over, they say, until the fat lady sings, and this fat lady ain’t singing.”
There was also a hint of resignation and reflection in her remarks.
“It’s been an honor for me, I never would have imagined that I would have been a member of the Council,” she said.
The next day, Baez went on vacation. Last Thursday, Baez, owner of the worst attendance record in the Council, something she was routinely criticized for throughout the campaign, missed another scheduled meeting.
After the recount, Baez still trailed by 69 votes, a margin certified by the Board of Elections on Tuesday.
Assemblyman Carl Heastie, the chairman of the Bronx Democratic Party who took over the position from Jose Rivera following an ugly power struggle and threw tremendous support and resources behind the winning campaign campaign, said Cabrera would inject “fresh blood and new energy” into the Council.
“Cabrera has a tremendous background,” Heastie said. “He’s a pastor and a counselor, so he can relate to the struggles that families here are going through.”
Assemblyman Rivera, Baez’s political mentor, said he was “proud of Maria, she took to the streets, it was a very grassroots operation.” He said the support of the Working Families Party, 1199 SEIU (the healthcare workers union) and the Bronx County Democratic Party tipped the race in Cabrera’s favor, assuming the result stands. “I know what County can do,” the former County boss said.
Because of her atrocious attendance record and other criticism for running up exorbitant cell phone bills, funding questionable organizations, backing pro-landlord legislation and supporting the extension of term limits, Baez was seen as one of the most vulnerable incumbents seeking re-election.
At one point, as many as seven Democratic challengers had announced their intention to run against Baez in the primary. Early this summer, Cabrera, who is of Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage, emerged as the leading contender after picking up the County endorsement, which snowballed into a slew of other party and union support. Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. put his name and words behind Cabrera as well.
That institutional support was compounded by the near fanatical energy of Cabrera’s campaign volunteers, most of them young members of New Life Outreach International, the edgy new wave church Cabrera founded in the northwest Bronx 20 years ago (see sidebar).
The campaign, run by a handful of veteran Democratic operators, including County Communications Director Patrick Jenkins, media handler Fernando Aquino and strategist Venacio “Benny” Catala, ran into a snag after it became public that Cabrera had only moved into the district last August and had voted as a Republican in the last presidential primary.
But it didn’t prove to be his undoing.
At Maestro’s, Cabrera’s camp began celebrating even before the results were finally tallied. A mob of supporters rushed the stage earlier in the night before their candidate had even made an appearance. Banging on hand drums and dancing, dozens of Cabrera supporters began chanting in Spanish: “The Cabrera Era has begun!”
Later, Cabrera echoed that sentiment in his victory speech, saying, “We’re going to start a new era of leadership in the Bronx and the best is yet to come!”
September 24, 2009
By Norwood News
Invisalign Open House
Concerned Dental Care – Dr. Jay Fensterstock DDS will host an open house on Invisalign for teens and adults at 55 E. Mosholu Pkwy., N. on Friday, Oct. 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Doctors and staff will be on hand to speak about Invisalign, a clear and wireless alternative to braces. For more information, call Margie Rivera at (718) 652-7370, ext. 12, or visit www.concerneddentalcare.com.
Relationships and Conflict Resolutions Seminar
The Life Skills Institute is offering a free seminar on Friday, Sept. 25 that will discuss conflict resolution and relationships. Dr. Lincoln Jailal will speak at the seminar, at The Bedford Park Congregational House, 3008 Bainbridge Ave. (at East 201st Street). For more information, call Norma DeJesus at (646) 316-9789 or Amy Lewis at (917) 597-8836.
Social Security Help
Congressman Eliot Engel’s Bronx office at 3655 Johnson Ave. will host representatives of the Social Security Administration on Wednesday, Sept. 30. Those with questions or issues concerning Social Security should call (718) 796-9700 to schedule an appointment which is required. For more information, visit www.ssa.gov.
Community Resource Fair
The University Neighborhood Housing Program is providing free banking advice at the Northwest Bronx Community Resource Fair on Sunday, Oct. 4 from 12:30 to 3 p.m., preceded by a free lunch at noon, at Our Lady of Refuge Parish Center, located at 290 E. 196th St. Fair attendees can attend several financial workshops, and financial, legal and immigration experts at the fair will offer appointments for a brief private counseling session. For more information and to RSVP, call (718) 933-2539.
Classes at BRAC
The Bronx River Art Center’s after-school and Saturday art program for ages 9 to 18 starts Oct. 5. Registration is open from Sept. 26 to Oct. 3. Classes include fine art such as painting and drawing, ceramics and cartooning, as well as digital media such as videography and digital photography. For more information, visit www.bronxriverart.org or contact Gail Nathan at (718) 589-5819 ext. 11 or gjnathan@bronxriverart.org.
Volunteer at VC Park
Volunteer at Van Cortlandt Park on Saturday, Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Projects include tree plantings and plant removal. Bring a snack and a drink. Volunteers will receive giveaways. For more information, call (718) 601-1553 or visit www.vancortlandt.org.
Free Mammograms
The Mobile Mammography Van offers free mammograms to women over age 40 who have not had one in the last 12 months. The van will be at MS 80, 149 E. Mosholu Pkwy. on Wednesday, Oct. 14. Call (718) 405-6300 ext. 1131 to make an appointment.
Volunteer at the Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden’s Explainer program is holding an open house for volunteer students ages 13 to 17 on Sunday, Sept. 27, from 2 to 4 p.m. Through the program, teens learn about plants, nature and people, and volunteer at the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden. For more information, call (718) 817-8079 or visit www.nybg.org.
HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
The Montefiore Medical Center’s AIDS Center and The Bronx HIV CARE Network will host their annual Latino HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Friday, Oct. 9 in the Cherkasky Auditorium at 111 E. 210th St. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a panel discussion from noon to 1 p.m. Educational materials on HIV prevention, blood pressure screenings, and free HIV testing will all be available. Also featured will be entertainment, guest speakers, and free raffle drawings. For more information, call Selma Torres at (718) 231-3296, ext. 23.
English Help
The Mosholu Library at 285 E. 205th St. is hosting free English conversation classes for foreign language speaking adults (ages 16 and over). Participants will talk to native English speakers about a variety of subjects. Registration and language testing begins on Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 6:30 p.m. and classes will meet on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. starting on Oct. 6. For more information, call (212) 340-0918.
Mothers Guild Reunion
The Mothers Guild of Our Lady of Refuge at 290 E. 196th St. is planning a reunion on Sunday, Oct. 18. Mass will be held at 12:30 p.m. followed by lunch in the Parish Center. For more information, call Bernadette Groarke at (914) 237-6928 or Joan Cintron at (718) 548-2493.
Volunteers Sought
New York Cares, a volunteer organization that organizes hundreds of volunteer projects, is seeking new volunteers in the Bronx. Volunteers must attend a one-time orientation on Sept. 26 from 11 a.m. to noon, to be held at the Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. To register or for additional orientation dates, visit www.newyorkcares.org, or call (212) 228-5000. After completing the orientation, volunteers will be able to participate in a variety of community service projects throughout the Bronx.
Bedford Park Flea Market
The Bedford Park Congregational Church will host its Annual Fun Fair and Flea Market at 201st Street and Bainsbridge Avenue on Oct. 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, contact Reverend Dr. Christopher Ponnuraj at (718) 367-8996.
Lane Closures
The University Heights/W.207 St. Bridge will require temporary lane closures from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. until Sept. 30. Construction will occur on the bridge between these hours. During construction, one lane will be available for traffic. During non-working hours all travel lanes are re-opened to traffic.
Child Care Workshops
The Jewish Child Care Association at 555Bergen Ave. will host a number of workshops beginning in November and ending in June of next year. For information about classes and dates call (212) 558-9930 or visit jccany.org.
Free Trees in September
Everyone from New York who becomes a member of the Arbor Day Foundation in September will receive ten free trees as part of the Foundation’s “Trees for America” campaign. To receive the ten free trees, send a $10 membership contribution to Ten Trees, Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, NE 68410, by September 30, 2009, or join online at www.arborday.org.
Program Registration at Montefiore Community Center
Registrations for fall programs at the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center at 3450 DeKalb Ave. have begun. The center is offering many different programs from services like childcare to children and adult classes ranging from flag football to belly dancing. Test preparation courses are also being offered. For more information including a complete program brochure, call the Center weekdays at (718) 882-4000 or visit www.mmcc.org.
Foster Parents Needed
The Foster Care Network is reaching out to potential foster parents in the Bronx. Hundreds of foster children in the area need loving and caring families to make a difference in their lives. Foster parents receive tax-free financial assistance for the expenses of each child, free training, and Foster Parent certification. For more information, call (800) 454-3727 or visit www.fostercarenetwork.org.
New IRS YouTube Channel
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has launched a series of videos on YouTube and podcasts on iTunes to help taxpayers take advantage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Visit www.youtube.com/irsvideos to view videos with tax tips and tips for how to utilize the Act’s provisions. Videos will be presented in English, Spanish and other languages. Audio footage with IRS tips will be available via podcast at iTunes, or on IRS.gov’s Multimedia Center for those without an iTunes account.
NMCIR Immigration Assistance
The Northern Manhattan Coalition for Immigrant Rights is offering immigration assistance to Bronxites. There is assistance with U.S. Citizenship, family petitions, and travel permits. It is offered at Refuge House, 2715 Bainbridge Ave., Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (718) 484-8294 or email info@NMCIR.org.
Bet For Pets
United Action for Animals will host their inaugural bet for pets casino night on Oct. 1 at 289 10th Ave. from 6:30 to 10:00 p.m. Tickets are $100 and include drinks, hors d’oeuvres, gambling, free ‘snip chips’, silent auction and raffle prizes. To buy tickets in advance visit www.ua4a.org.
Yoga and Cooking Classes
The South Bronx Food Cooperative is offering two courses: Beginners yoga classes on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m., Saturdays at 11 a.m. and classes en español Tuesdays at 3 p.m. (with a suggested donation of $10; bring your own mat or one can be provided).; and free cooking classes on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Classes will be held at the South Bronx Food Cooperative, 3103 Third Ave. at 158th Street. For more information or to RSVP, call (718) 401-3500 or email info@sbxfc.org.
Donate Backpacks to Homeless Kids
Bronx BP Ruben Diaz, Jr. is encouraging Bronx residents to donate backpacks and school supplies to “Operation Backpack” before the start of the new school year. “Operation Backpack” provides homeless children and students in New York City with backpacks and school supplies to help them succeed in school. To contribute, drop off a new backpack at the Bronx BP office at 851 Grand Concourse, Room 209. To find out more information about Operation Backpack or to make a donation, visit www.OperationBackpackNYC.org.
Scouting for Girl Scouts
Girls from 5 to 17 years old looking to serve the Bronx community, make friends and learn life skills are encouraged to join the Girl Scouts of the Bronx. For more information about joining a Girl Scout troop, visit www.girlscoutsnyc.org or email webbx@girlscoutsnyc.org.
Free Medicine Programs for Cancer Patients
The Complimentary Medicine Program at Albert Einstein Cancer Center is offering two free research programs for patients with cancer. The Yoga-Based Cancer Rehabilitation Program includes 12 weeks of yoga to see if yoga can help patients with breast, lung, and colorectal cancer. A certified yoga instructor teaches classes in both English and Spanish. The Mind-Body Cancer Program includes 8 weeks of Mind-Body groups (The Stress Management Education Group and the Spiritual Support Group) for patients with most types of cancer. Some restrictions apply to these groups, which have been specifically designed by a psychologist and an oncologist. For more information and to find out eligibility, call (718) 430-2380.
Breast Oncology Program
The Breast Oncology Living Daily Program also known as BOLD living offers a variety of free educational, support, and mind-body workshops. They are designed to empower and nurture breast cancer patients, survivors, and loved ones, but are open to all. For more information or to register, call (718) 430-3613 or email outreach@aecom.yu.edu.
Volunteer at North Bronx Healthcare
The North Bronx Healthcare Network is seeking volunteers for the Sexual Assault Treatment Program run at North Central Bronx Hospital, Jacobi Medical Center, and Lincoln Medical Center. Those interested should be willing to volunteer twice a month and commit to serving the program for one year. For more information, call (718) 519-4788.
Farmers Market at Botanical Garden
There will be an all day Wednesday and Saturday Farmers Market at the Botanical Garden through Nov. 14. The Wednesday market will be held near Tulip Tree Allee and the Saturday market will be across the street from the Garden’s Mosholu Gate entrance. Vendors from New York’s Hudson Valley region and beyond offer a variety of home grown products, meats and home baked goods. For more information, visit www.nybg.org/edible_garden/farmers_market.php or call (718) 362-9561 and press 403#.
MTA’s Trip Planner Voice
Trip Planner Voice is a telephone service that allows customers to access bus and subway travel itinerary information via telephone 24/7 without the need to wait to speak to an agent. Trip Planner provides customers with the best and most accurate directions, fare information, walking distances and scheduled connections to and from other transit modes and transfers. For more information, and to learn how to get mobile access, visit www.tripplanner.mta.info.
Aid for Veterans and Their Families
The Warriors Family Assistance Program, launched by the American Legion Auxiliary, comes to the direct aid of veterans and their families in New York State. Veterans and their families can apply for up to $1,500 in aid in maintenance grants, medical grants and employment opportunities. Any veteran who has served honorably within the last four years, or is currently serving in one of the Armed Forces, and is a NYS resident, is eligible to apply. All grants are non-repayable. For an application or more information, call (800) 421-6348.
Free Career Information Seminars
Lehman College Office of Continuing Education is holding free career information seminars for its non-credit certificate programs. For dates, times and locations of seminars, please call (718) 960-8512 or visit www.lehman.edu.ce.
Computer Classes at Williamsbridge Oval
The Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center, 3225 Reservoir Oval E., is holding computer classes on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Learn how to use the internet and MS Office software. For more information, contact Albert Davis or Tuwanda Ruffin at (718) 654-1851.
Free Prescription $aver Card
The NY State Health Department is accepting applications for the free New York Prescription $aver Card. The program offers discounts on thousands of prescription medications. It will serve low-income New Yorkers who are disabled or between the ages of 50 and 64. To be eligible, income for single individuals must be $35,000 or less, and $50,000 or less for married individuals. Medicaid and EPIC recipients are not eligible for the Prescription $aver Card. To learn more or apply, visit www.nyprescriptionsaver.fhsc.com or call (800) 788-6917. (TTY users should call (800) 290-9138.) Applications are also available at pharmacies.
School Salon Reopens
The School of Professional Beauty Care at Grace Dodge Career and Technical High School, 2474 Crotona Ave., has reopened The New Image Salon to the public. It’s open every Thursday afternoon from 2:45 to 5:30 p.m., offering a wide variety of salon services at reasonable prices. Prices range from $5 to $25. Graduating seniors in the school’s cosmetology program staff the salon, with a licensed cosmetologist on duty. For more information, call (718) 584-2700 ext. 5084.
Couples Needed for Research Study
Doctors at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center are looking for healthy couples between the ages of 22 and 50, and in a monogamous relationship for at least six months, to participate in a research study. The study will test a vaginal gel and the couple will be screened for sexually transmitted infections. Females will have a gynecologic exam and vaginal fluid collected and males will have a genital exam. Female volunteers will have four visits and be reimbursed $60 per visit, and males volunteers will have three visits and will be reimbursed $40 per visit. Females must be using hormonal contraception. All visits will take place at the Albert Einstein General Clinical Research Center. For more information, call Julie at (718) 430-3253 or email microbicide@aecom.yu.edu.
English, Citizenship and Computer Classes
-MS 80 at 149 E. Mosholu Pkwy N., is offering English as a Second Language (ESL) and General Equivalency Diploma (GED) classes. For those interested, or if you have any questions, call Mrs. Alejandro at (718) 405-6300 ext. 1131.
-St. James Recreation Center at 2530 Jerome Ave. offers free classes in Microsoft Office, Resume/Cover Letter Writing, Computer Basics, and much more. For more information, call Justin Young at (718) 367-3659.
-Fordham University, 557 E. Fordham Rd., is currently holding free computer and English Language classes for parents, Mondays through Thursdays and on Saturdays. Classes can either stand alone or as an 8- to 12-week series. For more information or to register, call (718) 817-3503.
Senior Employment
The American Association of Retired Person (AARP) and the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) are assisting low-income Bronx residents, 55 and older, to receive employment through their outreach, training, and internship programs. For more information, call AARP located at 384 E. 149th St., Ste. 608 at (718) 585-2500.
MS 80 Needs Love
MS 80 is asking parents and community members to show some love and volunteer for just an hour each week. The school needs mentors, math and reading tutors, part-time coaches and volunteers to help with cafeteria duty. For more information, call Ms. Alejandro (718) 405-6300 ext. 111.
MMCC Grade School & Teen Programs at Tracey Towers
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center is accepting registration for their free after school program at Tracey Towers, 40 W. Mosholu Pkwy. The program meets Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and is open to children in the third through sixth grades. From 6:30 to 9 p.m., the free Teen Center is open for youth ages 12 to 18. Programs include homework help, computers, arts and crafts, sports, acting, and quiet games. To register, stop by the Youth Community Room on the second floor of Tracey Towers and speak to Antoine Fields, or call him at (917) 482-5039.
Self Defense Classes
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center still has space in its boxing, karate, and self-defense classes for children, teens, and adults. To register or find out class times, call (718) 882-4000 ext. 0, or stop by the center at 3450 DeKalb Ave.
Free Meditation for Breast Cancer Survivors
The Montefiore-Einstein Cancer Center is offering a free 20-week course on meditation and stress management for breast cancer survivors. The course is part of a research study. To register or learn more, call Kimala Harris at (718) 430-2380 or e-mail kah2019@med.cornell.edu.
Place for Teens With Issues
The Power Project is a free program for teens ages 12 to 18 who are dealing with substance abuse and other problems. Located at 3464 Webster Ave., Power Project provides case management, individual and group counseling, trips, and is just a place to get away from it all. For more information, call (718) 515-7971.
Wii Games for Adults and Seniors
On Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4 p.m., adults and seniors can enjoy free Wii video games at the Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St. To sign up, go to the Adult Information Desk. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.
Free Parking Calendars
Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz is offering free New York City Parking Calendars to community residents. To receive one, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to his office at 3107 Kingsbridge Ave., Bronx, NY 10463, or stop by the office in person.
Free Career Workshops
The State University of New York, located at 3950 Laconia Ave., is offering free career workshops, including job readiness training, resume and cover letter preparation, help with job searches and computer skills, job placement assistance, an Office Skills Certificate Program, college prep and more. For more information, call (718) 547-1001 or visit www.NBX.SUNYEOC.org.
After School Care
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center, 3450 DeKalb Ave., provides after school care for children in elementary school. Children are transported from their schools in Norwood, Bedford Park, Williamsbridge and Van Cortlandt Village. The center provides a snack, help with homework, and an array of activities to keep children busy. Financial aid is available. For more information, call Ruth Moore, program registrar, at (718) 882-4000.
Schizophrenia Study Seeks Participants
A research study seeking new treatments for schizophrenia is looking for patients in the Bronx. Candidates must be 18 to 65 years old, diagnosed with schizophrenia at or before age 35 and currently on certain medications for schizophrenia. Patients can enroll through the first half of 2009. For more information, call (888) 988-6736 or go to www.cognitivestudy.com.
Job Opportunities
On Dec. 1, Mayor Bloomberg announced the expansion of free job placement services through New York City’s Workforce1 Career Centers. The centers provide personalized career counseling, interview training, resume/cover letter assistance, workshops and ESL classes. For more information, call the Bronx Workforce1 Center, 358 E. 149th St., (718) 960-7099.
Quality of Life Screening
The Psychosocial Oncology Program of the Montefiore-Einstein Cancer Center is conducting a survey study in order to learn about the physical and emotional stresses faced by cancer survivors. Participants will have to fill out questionnaires and have the opportunity to participate in free/low-cost programs and support services within the program. For more information, call (718) 430-2380.
Alzheimer’s Support Group
The Alzheimer’s Association’s New York City chapter provides a support group in Norwood for Spanish and English speaking caregivers who have relatives with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia. The support group meets on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 5 to 6:15 p.m. For the location or more information, call Mark Goodwin at (718) 920-7377.
Free Respite Program
Kingsbridge Heights Community Center (KHCC) is offering free after-school services to families with mentally retarded or developmentally disabled children ages 5 to 21 from 3 to 6 p.m. KHCC is also offering a Saturday Respite Program for ages 15 to 25, and on Sundays another Respite Program is provided for ages 18 to 65. Weekend Respite Program hours are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are held at the KHCC, 3101 Kingsbridge Terrace (near Sedgwick Avenue) at West 230th Street. To register or for more information, call Hanna Gabris at (718) 884-0700 ext. 202.
Speech Program at Ursula
The Mt. St. Ursula Speech Center, 2885 Marion Ave., is now accepting applications for its fall program. The center has openings for children ages 2 to 5 who are in need of speech and language services. Medicaid and other insurances accepted. For more information, call (718) 584-7679.
Aphasia Clinic Accepting Clients
The Lehman College Speech and Hearing Center, which provides therapy on a sliding scale payment schedule, is now accepting new clients in its recently expanded aphasia clinic. The clinic will provide individual and group therapy sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 1 p.m. and 2 to 3 p.m.; group therapy sessions also take place on Tuesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. Diagnostic and therapeutic sessions will be supervised by faculty members who are licensed by the NYS Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and certified by ASHA (American Speech Language Hearing Association). For more information, call Wanda Adams at (718) 960-8138.
Adult ESL Level 1and 2 Classes
Beginning September 2009 through June 2010, P.S. 94x will be offering Level 1 and 2 ESL classes on Tuesday and Thursdays from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. For more information, contact Ms. Seminario, at (347) 563-4772 or (718) 405- 6345. You can also come to room 201 for more information and for sign up.
Job Fair
Monroe College is hosting a part-time job fair at the Radisson Hotel in New Rochelle, New York, on October 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be no charge for employers interested in hiring at the fair. Employers should call 914-740-6480 to RSVP.
September 24, 2009
By Judy Noy
Onstage
The Bronx Library Center, located at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, hosts two concerts: Early Chamber Music of Ludwig van Beethoven, performed by the Bronx Symphony Orchestra and Friends, Sept. 26 at 2:30 p.m.; and Grupo Caribe in Concert, Oct. 3 at 2:30 p.m. In connection with The Bronx Council on the Arts, the Center will also host playwright and BRIO winner Camille Darby for a reading from her play, “Sweetest Taboo,” on Saturday, Sept. 26 at 6 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.
Events
Bronx-born author Allen Jones, along with co-author and Fordham professor Mark Naison, will discuss his book, “The Rat That Got Away: A Bronx Memoir” on Oct. 1 at 4 p.m. at Fordham University’s Dealy Hall and on Oct. 9 at 8:30 p.m. at The Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse.
“Celia the Queen,” a special documentary film screening relating the story of Celia Cruz who influenced people all around the world through her music, will be shown at Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. Free tickets may be obtained at the school’s box office. For more information, call (718) 960-8833.
Join New York’s largest free bicycling event, which promotes healthy living, the Tour de Bronx. This event, which will take place on Oct. 18 (rain date: Oct. 25), offers both 25-mile and 40-mile rides with two starting points: the Bronx County Building at 10 a.m. at 161st Street and the Grand Concourse; and at 9 a.m. at the Fordham University’s Rose Hill Campus parking lot. The ride ends at the New York Botanical Garden with a Grand Finale Festival. To register or to volunteer, call (718) 920-7301 or visit www.tourdebronx.org.
Car-free Bronx Coalition presents Bronx on the Move, a car-free Saturday at Crotona Park, Sept. 26 from noon to 5 p.m. between Claremont Parkway and Crotona Park North (rain or shine), featuring family fitness events including zumba lessons inspired by traditional cumbia, salsa, samba and merengue music; guided bike ride starting in Crotona Park featuring free bike riding lessons for kids and adults and free simple bike repair; and free health screening and advice on healthy eating. For more information, call (718) 324-4466 or visit transalt.org/events/calendar.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse at 165th Street, presents Bronx Talks, a monthly series featuring Bronx-based writers and/or books about the Bronx. Luis “DJ Disco Wiz” Cedeño, hip-hop’s first Latino DJ, will be signing his memoir on Sept. 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. For more information, call (718) 681-6000 ext. 120, or visit www.bronxmuseum.org.
The New York Botanical Garden presents several events this fall: The Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden offers Gardens ‘Round the World featuring Caribbean Garden, a pinwheel-shaped plot garden featuring Caribbean crops; as well as Lenape Life which takes place Tuesdays through Fridays from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. through Sept. 27, and offers samples of freshly popped corn as well as succotash made with fruits from corn, beans, and squash. Visitors can sit inside an authentic wigwam and create a cornhusk doll. The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden will hold Ballet Among the Blooms, Sept. 26 from 3 to 5 p.m. Resplendent Roses will be on display in the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden, weekends through Oct. 11, and features care of roses during tours, gardening demonstrations, and Q&A sessions with experts. For more information and a detailed schedule, call (718) 817-8700 or visit nybg.org.
The Bronx Culture Trolley, a replica of a 20th-century trolley, transports visitors on the first Wednesday of every month (except January and September), to Bronx hot spots, ending at Sweetwaters Bar & Grill with jazz, and food and drink. A reception is held at the Hostos Art Gallery, 450 Grand Concourse (at 149th St.) at 5 p.m., followed by three trolley departures at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. New attractions are added monthly. Trolley ride is free. Riders can get on and off at any scheduled stop and spend as much time as they wish at any or all of the featured venues. Venues and activities vary each month. The next trip is on Oct. 7. For more information or to confirm, call (718) 931-9500 ext. 33 or log on to www.bronxarts.org.
Exhibits
Beyond Appearances, an exhibition bringing together a group of approximately 40 artists, includes painting, drawing, sculpture, video, and installation, will be on display Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., through Dec. 1 at the Lehman College Art Gallery, Fine Arts Building, 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W. A reception will be held Oct. 20 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) 960-8731.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse at 165th Street, presents an exhibition series commemorating the Grand Concourse’s centennial, featuring The Grand Concourse Commissions, through Jan. 4. Originally called the Grand Boulevard, the Grand Concourse celebrates its 100th year in 2009. For more information, call (718) 681-6000 ext. 120, or visit www.bronxmuseum.org.
Library Events
The Bronx Library Center has events for all ages:
For children and preschoolers, there is films, Sept. 30 and Oct. 7 at 4 p.m.; and Preschool Romp/Tales for the Teeny Tiny, Sept. 24, Oct. 1, 3 and 8 at 11 a.m.
Also, for school-aged children, there is Toddler Story Time, Sept. 26 at 11 a.m.; The Glow Show, Sept. 26 at 2 p.m.; and Make a Sparkling Spirals Mobile, Oct. 1 at 4 p.m.
All ages can enjoy Day of Dance Films, presented by the Library for the Performing Arts, featuring films of live performances, Sept. 30 from 2 to 7:30 p.m.
The Center is located at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road. For a detailed schedule, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.
The Jerome Park Library, at 118 Eames Place, presents Storytelling, Oct. 2 at 3:30 p.m.; and a film, Oct. 6 at 4 p.m.; both for school aged children. For more information, call (718) 549-5200.
NOTE: Items for consideration should be received in our office by Oct. 1 for the next publication date of Oct. 8.
September 24, 2009
By Norwood News
This past summer, national clothing chain American Eagle Outfitters gave $9,000 in funding to the Mosholu Preservation Corporation’s horticultural program to aid the Parks Department in cleaning, beautifying and maintaining parks in the community. In conjunction with the city’s Summer Youth Employment Program, Bronx high school students spent the summer working in parks, including Williamsbridge Oval, St. James, Devoe and Mosholu Parkway (pictured at right).
—Idalmi Acosta
September 24, 2009
By Megan Taylor
State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. met with leaders of the Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improvement District (BID) on Saturday, Sept. 12 to discuss economic development opportunities and community needs.
“This is the first time in my 25 years of community experience that someone has come to ask what we need and how the government can help the community,” said BID secretary Dennis O’Brien, who owns A & O Surgical Supply on Gun Hill Road. “We are the first BID he’s talked to and I think the meeting went extremely well.”
Espada, now the Senate majority leader, has been meeting with several other local community organizations, including the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center and the Fordham Road BID, as he tries to figure out how to allocate nearly $2 million in discretionary funding earmarked for local initiatives.
The money was supposed to be doled out by the time the budget was signed in April, but Espada has had trouble finding appropriate funding opportunities. In the spring, Espada attempted to give the money to two brand new nonprofit groups created by two employees of the south Bronx health center network under the senator’s control. But Democratic leaders rebuffed that effort.
He then tried to give the bulk of the money to the Bronx Chamber of Commerce to be a fiscal conduit for a series of programs he wanted to fund. But the Chamber declined to accept it, saying they are not suited to being a fiscal conduit.
Espada has been a lightning rod for criticism since he re-entered the Senate in January and is currently under investigation by the Bronx district attorney and state Attorney General Andrew Cuomo. Espada says the investigations are politically motivated by Democratic rivals.
At the Saturday morning meeting at El Presidente, O’Brien said Espada and the Jerome-Gun Hill BID discussed neighborhood improvements like shopping areas and security cameras. Though the BID has been instrumental in keeping streets clean and removing graffiti, “we need more security cameras,” O’Brien said.
Ed. Note: Norwood News is published by Mosholu Preservation Corporation which manages the Jerome-Gun Hill Business Improvement District.
September 24, 2009
By Molly Ryan
High School football is back in full force across the Bronx. On Sept. 18, DeWitt Clinton’s varsity football squad just managed to squeak by Susan Wagner for a victory of 22-20.
The game’s excitement all boiled down to the 4th quarter. At the beginning of this final quarter, Wagner was up 8-6, but as the clock ticked down, Clinton managed to outscore Wagner by earning two touchdowns.
Throughout the game, Clinton effectively relied on rushing the ball and ended the game with 263 total rushing yards. The two top rushing players were Alonzo Merchant with 111 yards and Anthony Smith with 101 yards. Both Merchant and Smith had one touchdown each.
Smith clearly made his mark in the game not only by rushing, but also by having six tackles. Jovanny Perez had 11 tackles for the defensive line.
So far, Clinton has two wins and one loss. Their next game is on Sept. 26 at noon at New Dorp.
JFK Winless
Unfortunately, John F. Kennedy High School has not had a winning start to its football season. Currently, Kennedy is 0 and 3.
In their last game against Tottenville on Sept. 17, Kennedy was able to score one touchdown in the fourth quarter but lost the game 26–6. Isiah Sledge, the quarterback, scored the touchdown.
Evander in a Blowout
Last week, Evander Childs destroyed Franklin K. Lane Campus on Sept. 18 for its first win of the season, 40-0.
Evander completely bypassed throwing the ball and instead rushed the ball for the entire game. The rushing champion of the game was Davian Gauntlett who had three touchdowns and 220 yards.
On the defense, Nimrel Grant had four sacks and six tackles. Shyreik Marsh had eight tackles.
September 24, 2009
By None
My name is Robert Lopez. I’m a longtime Norwood resident. When I first moved to Norwood by Gun Hill Road and Jerome Avenue, the neighborhood was mainly middle class, working folks. It was a very desirable, quiet and convenient place to live with mass transit and shopping around the corner. Fast forward to the present, I am sad to say that within the past five to six years, and despite some nice curb-appeal improvements like new street trees and renovated parks in Norwood, I have noticed the working class fleeing out of Norwood in disgust of what the neighborhood is becoming as the working class in Norwood is slowly being replaced by people on public assistance, Section 8, HASA and other city subsidized programs. Of course I am not saying all subsidized people are low-class. However, as we all know, the “bad apples” ruin it for the good ones. It is these “bad apples” that I refer to.
This demographic shift is happening because of the gentrification occurring in the south Bronx, Washington Heights and Harlem for the past decade or so. The displaced tenants from that area are forced to move further north like Norwood for affordable housing.
While the south Bronx, Washington Heights and Harlem improves, the north Bronx gets worse and becomes a dumping ground for troubled low-income people with issues. I’ve seen two particular apartment buildings in Norwood being converted into half residential, half homeless shelters, giving the working residents in Norwood another reason to flee the area while increasing the neighborhood drug dealer’s clientele. As a result, the quality of life in Norwood has slowly been diminishing by allowing these “bad apples” to infiltrate and corrupt our lovely Norwood neighborhoods.
Before you know it, the north Bronx is the new south Bronx. Do we really want that for our community?
As a longtime resident who cares, I believe it is important to expose this trend and hopefully spark change in the community because if this continues, in a matter of years, the damage can be too far gone to totally stop and Norwood will be transformed into a slum.
–Robert Lopez
September 24, 2009
By Editorial
In the most recent issue of our sister newspaper, the Tremont Tribune (covers the neighborhoods of Community Board 6), we report on a troubling trend of over-leveraged landlords finding themselves in hot water in buildings they paid way too much for. Fordham Towers is exhibit #1, but it is only one of many buildings facing, or on the brink of, a crisis.
Advocates who have watched previous waves of unwise lending and irrational speculation wreak havoc on Bronx blocks, saw the trouble coming months and even years ago when purchase prices way exceeded multiples of the rent roll that buyers use, or should use, to gauge sustainability.
“It is a surprise to absolutely nobody who was looking at this two years ago,” housing advocate Dina Levy of the Urban Homesteading Assistance Board told the Tribune.
The reckless lending and purchasing is eerily reminiscent of the late 1980s and early 1990s when the quasi-federal agency Freddie Mac looked the other way while landlords took loans they couldn’t afford on residential buildings, leading to a free-fall in maintenance and foreclosures in scores of residential buildings.
University Neighborhood Housing Program was the first to raise the red flag on Freddie Mac and they regularly have issued reports on troubling housing finance trends over the last several years.
The city, policymakers, and banks must do something to soften the blow that is sure to affect thousands of innocent tenants. And while they are at it, they would do well to listen closely to advocates who have their ears to the ground, resolve to learn from this latest wave of irresponsibility and vow not to let it happen again.
(To read the Tremont Tribune story, go to www.tremonttribune.org.)
September 24, 2009
By Editorial
We just had a very competitive primary election in two City Council districts.
But the turnout was pathetic.
Less than 10 percent of registered Democrats — i.e. those who were eligible to vote — went to the polls. The citywide turnout was similar, not that that’s much of a consolation.
Why is that?
It’s hard to know exactly.
Maybe part of the problem was that there was such a low-profile Democratic primary for mayor and no Republican primary.
Or maybe the extension of term limits really turned people off since they had already voted twice for two-term limits for city politicians.
But we suspect that the main reason is that most people just don’t know who their City Council member is or what he does. And maybe that’s the fault of each individual voter.
But we can’t just leave it at that. The City Council decides the budget and passes every local law that affects everything from sanitation to housing, to hospitals, parks and schools. Individual Council members bring neighborhood issues to the Council, a critical task in the nation’s largest city. They also fund local projects and initiatives.
State legislators, all of whom will be up for election next fall, also allocate funds and make laws.
As we’ve said numerous times before on this page, low voter turnout means less accountable politicians and less responsive government.
So, what’s to be done?
Should we require civic education in the schools so that young people grow up understanding and participating in city government?
Should local organizations make more of an effort to educate voters about the issues at stake?
If you’re reading this newspaper, you must care about your community. So, what do you think? E-mail us at norwoodnews@norwoodnews.org and we’ll publish your suggestions in our next issue.
September 24, 2009
By Jordan Moss
Newly elected AFL-CIO president Richard Trumka, the nation’s top labor leader, touched down in the Bronx on Tuesday afternoon to stand with local activists and union members in their ongoing struggle to exact significant concessions from The Related Companies, the developer of the Kingsbridge Armory project.
Trumka met with members of the Kingsbridge Armory Development Alliance (KARA) in a church on Reservoir Avenue and then spoke to union members and the press across the street in front of the landmark facility.
He said the choice at the Armory is between developing a project that is the “center and heart of this community,” or merely a “profit center for the developer.” He added, “People of conscience cannot allow this to become a profit center,” and he echoed KARA’s demands for a Community Benefits Agreement and living wage jobs.
The visit was clearly intended to ratchet up the pressure on politicians poised to weigh in on the development. Earlier this month, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz issued a negative recommendation to the City Planning Commission, which will vote on The Related Companies’ proposal on Oct. 19. Then the City Council will have the final say. Local Council members, including Oliver Koppell and Maria Baez, have indicated that they do not support the inclusion of a big-box supermarket at the Armory, but they are holding their cards close to their vests on how the other labor issues like the living wage will factor in to their vote.
Meanwhile, Diaz, who has been trying to reach out to Related in hopes of crafting an agreement, says he has not received a response from the developer.
Stuart Appelbaum, head of the Retail Workers and Department Store Union (RWDSU), the local labor leader who invited Trumka to the Armory, said that “bringing the head of the AFL-CIO in the first week after he is elected sends a powerful message about what working people want in economic development. We hope the mayor and all elected officials hear that message. “
Trumka said he was impressed by the labor-community coalition organized by KARA. “We see it as a model to replicate all over,” he said.
September 24, 2009
By Molly Ryan
What students want, students get.
After Monroe College student surveys showed a strong interest in developing a master’s program in criminal justice, the college responded by creating a Master of Science program to accompany their Bachelor of Science program in criminal justice.
The new graduate school, which began classes on Sept. 9, will provide a “good, rigorous education” for students, according to Donald E. Simon, assistant vice president for governmental affairs.
Among these new students is Denise Mitchell, a returning alumna from the bachelor’s program in criminal justice. “I feel like I came back home,” beamed Mitchell, as she filled out her course schedule in August.
Mitchell is enthused about her M.S. because it will allow her to fulfill her desire to become a probation or parole officer, which in turn will help her control juvenile delinquents and drug abusers. For Mitchell, the most rewarding aspect of working in a criminal justice field is “seeing people get the justice they deserve.”
Another Master’s student, Marielle Garcia, who received her Associates in Criminal Justice from Monroe, was also excited to return to the Bronx campus this fall. Garcia, who aspires to work in criminal justice and possibly pursue a career in law, said that she chose Monroe because “the faculty cares more for the students than the organization. The faculty is always welcoming, very friendly, and student oriented.”
The Master’s in Criminal Justice faculty is headed by Dr. Basil Wilson, the Assistant Dean of the school. Previously, Wilson served as a provost, Senior Vice President and teacher at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice and has over 35 years of experience in the criminal justice field.
Wilson explained that there is a need for graduate degrees in criminal justice because the field is becoming “increasingly professionalized, demanding graduate degrees.” In order to obtain competitive, higher level management positions in city and federal agencies, “knowledge of criminal justice literature, a critical perspective and problem solving skills” are all necessary, said Wilson.
At Monroe, students can expect to have an “agile professional faculty,” said Wilson. Courses offered will expound the “impact of globalization” on the criminal justice system and teach students about leadership, crime mapping, international terrorism and disaster preparedness. Wilson also hopes to “synchronize theory with practice” by integrating hands-on activities with logical thinking and writing in courses.
In one class titled “Perspectives on Drugs and Alcohol in the Criminal Justice System,” the professor, Jeffrey Gardiere, said he will combine theory and practice by “bringing in real life stories that allow students to apply their critical thinking skills.”
A student in Gardiere’s class, Debra Martinez, is already head over heels about the master’s program. “I’m in love with it [the master’s program] and I’m in love with learning,” she said.
Monroe is currently accepting applications for the winter semester of the criminal justice master’s program. For student convenience, all classes will be offered at night and online.
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
For the past three years, the 52nd Precinct has enjoyed the extra officers provided by the Police Department’s Operation Impact program, which floods precinct trouble spots with foot-patrolling rookie cops. Lately, Impact officers were concentrated on the Fordham Road corridor and also north of Fordham up to Kingsbridge Road.
But in mid-August, the 52nd Precinct lost its Impact officers to the 40th Precinct, which was dealing with an outbreak of shootings.
With only a small class of police cadets scheduled to graduate in December due to budget constraints, it is unclear when the successful program will return. Impact has long been criticized because it works when it’s in place, but crime tends to return when it packs up and moves.
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
The commanding officer of the 52nd Precinct, Deputy Inspector James Alles, will be retiring in the middle of next month.
Though Alles is still technically on active duty, the head of the Five-Two has been replaced on an interim basis by his second in command, Captain Phil Rivera, who will remain in charge until a replacement is found.
For the past six months, Alles has missed several weeks of work because of an undisclosed illness that has required a series of surgeries, according to Community Affairs Officer Wilson Hernandez.
At a meeting last week, members of Community Board 7, which presides over a district contiguous with the 52nd Precinct, complained about police response times and a lack of attention to quality-of-life issues such as graffiti, noise and prostitution. They also lamented that, despite several invitations, Alles had never spoken or appeared at a Board 7 meeting.
Hernandez, who usually attends the meetings on behalf of the Five-Two, responded to the criticism partly by telling the crowd that Alles will be retiring at the end of September and that Rivera will be in charge until a replacement is found.
He added that the precinct is stretched thin because of manpower issues, which often leaves quality-of-life calls lower on the priority list.
One of the rumors floating around the precinct was that the head of the smaller and less busy 50th Precinct, John J. Dadamo, might be transferred to the Five-Two, Hernandez said. Calls to the 52nd Precinct and NYPD headquarters were not returned by press time.
In early 2007, Alles, 47, was transferred to the 52nd Precinct after a successful stint in the east Bronx’s 45th Precinct.
During Alles’ tenure, crime, at least in terms of the seven major crime statistics released publicly (murder, rape, car theft, grand larceny, robbery, felony assault and burglary), has remained flat, though grand larcenies spiked significantly last year.
But quality-of-life issues have become increasingly problematic to neighborhood residents and Alles has been criticized by Board 7 and others, for not being present at community meetings. He did, however, address community concerns at two public safety meetings, one in November of 2007 and another in January of this year, both at Our Lady of Refuge Church on East 196th Street.
September 24, 2009
By Norwood News
• The 52nd Precinct Community Council will meet on Thursday, September 24 at 7:30 p.m. at Ustin Hall at Monroe College (2375 Jerome Ave.). For more information, call (718) 220-5824.
• The District 10 Community Education Council will be having a special hearing, the “Contract for Excellence Hearing,” on Sept. 30 at 6 p.m. The hearing will take place at the Jonas Bronck Academy at 400 E. Fordham Rd. For more information, call (718) 741-5836 or email cec10@schools.nyc.gov. [Update (9/30/09): the hearing date was changed and held on Sept. 29.]
• The CB7 Sanitation/Environmental Committee Meeting will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. All committees meet at the Community Board Office, 229A E. 204th St. For more information, call (718) 933-5650 or visit www.bronxcb7.info.
• Community Board 7 will hold a Public Safety Hearing on Tuesday, Oct. 13 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Our Lady of Refuge Church at 290 E. 196th St. For more information, call (718) 933-5650 or visit www.bronxcb7.info.
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
The Bronx County Democratic Committee voted to endorse Queens Councilman John Liu in the Sept. 29 runoff election for the citywide Comptroller position. Liu was the leading vote-getter in the crowded Democratic primary, but failed to get the 40 percent needed to avoid a runoff with second-place finisher David Yassky, a councilman from Brooklyn. But it wasn’t a unanimous decision. The Benjamin Franklin Reform Democratic Club, made up of the Riverdale political establishment, broke ranks and endorsed Yassky.
[Update (9/30/09): Liu easily defeated Yassky in the runoff election on Sept. 29.]
September 24, 2009
By Katie Riordan
In a slew of press releases over the summer, Bronx Congressman Eliot Engel has made it clear that he has no intention of maintaining the status quo in terms of health care reform.
Engel, who is a senior member on the Health Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, has been very outspoken, demanding that the President and Congress act immediately on legislation that would make health insurance available to those he says who have “no choices and provide competition to bring down the rates for everyone else.”
“For there to be effective reform to our broken healthcare system, there must be a robust public option,” Engel said. “This is the best way, short of a single-payer system, to hold costs and keep insurance companies in check.”
Although Engel was an early advocate of a single-payer plan, and maintains his support for such a policy, an early count in the House reveals that such a plan would not pass. The Congressman now says he would accept a public option, “at a bare minimum.”
While addressing seniors in Riverdale and at a tele-town hall meeting (he spoke with hundreds of constituents in a conference call) last month, Engel defended a strong public option plan, and took questions to try and get constituents on board.
“I was pleased to be able to explain some of the components of the legislation, and to dispel some of the myths regarding lost coverage, illegal immigrants and the so-called, ‘death panels,’” he said.
In a press release from last week, the Congressman was very critical of the Senate’s health reform bill.
“I would have preferred the Senate Finance Committee to have introduced a bill having sharper teeth in it than the one Senator Max Baucus presented today.”
Engel called the legislation “watered-down” and a “‘bipartisan’ bill without actually having bipartisan support.” He also expressed his belief that the bill could especially hurt the people of New York because of its high cost of living.
Engel claims there are 91,000 uninsured individuals in his congressional district which includes the northwest Bronx, as well as Westchester and Rockland counties.
September 24, 2009
By David Greene
Bagpipers play at the Bronx County Courthouse on Sept. 9 for the annual 9-11 memorial service. For the first time, a new borough president, Ruben Diaz Jr., addressed an audience of people who had lost a loved one to the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center eight years ago. It’s an annual event at the Courthouse, but the first without former B.P. Adolfo Carrion, who’s now working in the Obama administration. He spoke eloquently and talked about the 143 victims who lived or worked in the Bronx who died that day. “They were people who served us, they were people who worked for us, they were individuals who protected us,” he said. “They were our friends, our family, our neighbors.”
September 24, 2009
By Molly Ryan
Although Yudelka Tapia came in third in the District 14 City Council primary election behind the incumbent Maria Baez and the projected winner, Fernando Cabrera, she still plans to keep on fighting to improve the Bronx.
“I will do the same thing that I have been doing for 20 years—fighting for better housing, fighting for better education, fighting against domestic violence, fighting for the immigrants and fighting for the young people,” Tapia said.
Tapia’s campaign for District 14 City Council was a roller coaster ride of ups and downs, ultimately ending in a drop-off. While Tapia received a last minute endorsement from the New York Daily News, she struggled with many controversies. For one, she fired her former campaign manager, Onix Sosa, who went on to work for the scheming State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. and was recently exposed as a slumlord.
Right before the primary, another one of Tapia’s former political advisors, Victor Solis, accused Tapia of refusing to pay back a loan of $6,000 to his friend, Carlos Garcia. Tapia declined to comment on the loan scandal, and said, “That is a personal thing that has nothing to do with my campaign.”
Now that the primary election is over, Tapia plans on helping her former opponent, Fernando Cabrera, in his new role as Councilman.
Although she relentlessly attacked Cabrera for being a former Republican and living outside of the district until recently, Tapia said she’s made peace with him. “I called him to let him know that my intentions are for the best of the community,” she said. “I am ready to work with him.”
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
Sam Aboah looked around with pride at the dark-skinned and brightly-dressed crowd of people gathered in the Bronx’s Crotona Park on a hot Sunday afternoon in August.
He was surveying the results of the first-ever Ghanaian parade and festival and the culmination of months of hard work by himself and many of his fellow Ghanaian transplants.
“The important thing to know is that the Ghanaian population is growing here in New York,” Aboah said.
In 2000, there were 24,842 people living in New York City who either were born in Ghana or have Ghanaian ancestry according to Census figures. According to the latest estimates, from 2007, there are more than 50,000 Ghanaians now living in the city, with the majority residing in the Bronx.
There are whole buildings and blocks in the borough dominated by Ghanaians. Aboah called Tracey Towers on Mosholu Parkway, where roughly half the tenants are of Ghanaian descent, “Ghana House.” And there are high concentrations of Ghanaians near Crotona Park, on the upper Grand Concourse and in Co-op City.
As Aboah spoke, the heavy sound of bass from Ghanaian pop music boomed in the background. A handful of young ladies danced together in a style that was half African, half American hip-hop.
A group of elders, draped in traditional bright primary colors and mammoth gold jewelry looked on stoically. Young men wearing expensive jeans and diamond earrings punched their iPhones.
It was gold rings meets new bling.
“We’re trying to bridge the gap and create unity between the elders and the youth,” said Mohammed Mardah, another of the Ghanaian festival’s organizers. “We want [the youth] to know their culture.”
“[Events like these] makes us feel like we’re in Ghana, but we’re not,” said 25-year-old Nana Danso.
Derek Darko, 21, was born in Ghana, grew up in England and now lives and goes to school in Queens. He said staying in touch with his Ghanaian heritage and culture is a state of mind. “It depends on you, who you are,” he said.
Yet another event organizer, Tony Essien, a native Ghanaian, moved to the Bronx 25 years ago. He owns a small bar in the south Bronx on 138th Street called Oze Tavern. His two children were born in the Bronx.
The aims of the event were not only to bridge the gap between young and old, Essien says, but also to develop the Bronx Ghanaian population’s political voice. He cited the Puerto Ricans and Dominicans as ethnic groups that have leveraged their numbers into political strength.
Ghana was the first African country visited by Barack Obama after he became president earlier this year. Essien says Ghanaians in the Bronx are hoping to build on that momentum and get organized locally. “It’s always tough getting people together,” he said, “but this is a good turnout, a good start.”
Danso and Darko both liked the idea of the Ghanaian community growing its presence in the Big Apple. “It’s great to know that your country is known,” Danso said.
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
At Fernando Cabrera’s primary victory party at Maestro’s catering hall last Tuesday, a young man wearing a blue Cabrera T-shirt introduced himself to a reporter.
“I’m James Bond,” he said.
His real name, actually, is John Zaccaro. He’s a 20-year-old La Guardia Community College student who lives in Kingsbridge, but for the last several months during Cabrera’s contentious campaign for the 14th District City Council seat, he posted comments on political blogs (like the Norwood News’ Bronx News Network blog) as “James…James Bond.”
He’s also one of more than 100 members of Cabrera’s New Life Outreach International Church who got off their pews and stepped into politics this primary season. New Life was the lifeblood of his successful campaign to unseat Maria Baez.
It was evident at Maestro’s where the majority of those celebrating identified themselves as New Life members.
Zaccaro and others, like 22-year-old City College political science student Timothy Tapia, spent countless unpaid hours petitioning, knocking on doors and responding to attacks (and they were numerous and spiteful) on blogs and other Web stories.
Many of them had never been involved in a political campaign. And other than Tapia, most of them had no real political aspirations. But they all shared a strong belief in Cabrera, their pastor, mentor and, sometimes, father figure.
“We believe in him as a pastor and as a man,” said Zaccaro, who, as an adolescent being raised by a single mom, began hanging out on the streets and running with the wrong crowd until he joined New Life. “Now, my whole family serves God,” he said.
Tapia lost a cousin last Thanksgiving and Cabrera showed up to comfort his family at their holiday meal. “That’s the kind of man he is,” Tapia said.
Everyone contributed to the campaign in his or her own way.
Carlos Feliciano, 28, is a youth minister at New Life who often sings the Christian pop songs that dominate services at the Morris Avenue church.
Feliciano, a counselor at a Brooklyn charter school, worked on the campaign during his summer vacation. On his computer’s Garage Band music program, Feliciano composed three campaign theme songs, all with the same lyrics but in different styles: R&B, meringue and reggaeton.
The lyrics were simple; they consisted of the candidate’s name, “Fernando Cabrera,” over and over again. “It was catchy,” Feliciano said.
Feliciano and others all said the most eye-opening aspect of the campaign was how people in the community were starved for real leadership, political or otherwise.
“The question is not only what can Cabrera do politically, but what can he do as a spiritual leader?” Feliciano said.
September 24, 2009
By Jordan Moss
Overcoming a feisty, well-financed challenger as well as considerable political turbulence for championing the extension of term limits and breaking with allies in a divisive battle for party leadership in the borough, Council Member Oliver Koppell secured the Democratic nomination on Sept. 15 and a certain path to a third term.
The veteran Riverdalian politician, who entered public life as an assemblyman in 1970, defeated challenger Tony Perez Cassino, the former chairman of Community Board 8 and founder of a rival political club, 64 to 36 percent. Much of the district is in Riverdale and Kingsbridge, but Koppell won Norwood and Bedford Park by an almost identical margin.
Though competing in a favorable climate for challengers in the city — up to six may have succeeded in ousting incumbents — Cassino couldn’t overcome Koppell’s enduring favorite-son status and a loyal and experienced cadre of die-hard supporters, even including those who shook their heads and muttered their displeasure when Koppell sided with Bronx Democratic Party chairman Jose Rivera in his unsuccessful bid to hold on to power last year.
Shortly after the polls closed at 9 p.m. on primary night, Koppell volunteers started streaming into the storefront headquarters of the Benjamin Franklin Reform Democratic Club on East 231st Street in Kingsbridge, many with vote-tally sheets in hand. At 9:16 p.m. the club’s chief strategist, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, announced, “We know he won. The question is by how much.”
Campaign staff were busy entering the numbers collected directly from many of the district’s voting precincts into a computer spreadsheet.
After the narrow storefront filled beyond capacity with supporters, including his wife, children and grandchildren, Koppell, 69, jumped up on a chair and delivered a thundering victory speech, saying he was “enormously grateful for this affirmation that comes from every part of this district.” Koppell also interpreted the results as vindicating his unwavering position on term limits, a central issue in the campaign.
“I’m opposed to it because voters have a choice,” he told the cheering crowd, pointing to his own competitive primary.
(While voters did have a choice between Koppell and Cassino, the field narrowed considerably when two other challengers dropped out early in the campaign primarily because of the term limits extension. Koppell told the Norwood News that he probably won’t run again but that he would nonetheless recommend to any City Charter Revision Commission that term limits be eliminated completely.)
Meanwhile, the Cassino camp gathered at Ibiza, a bar on West 242nd Street near Manhattan College where, despite the nightclub atmosphere, the mood was obviously more subdued.
Cassino said he had no regrets after running a “hard campaign” and leaving “no stone unturned.” He said he “emerged from this with a great respect for the process.”
He did lament the paltry turnout where only 7,000 people voted in a district with 64,000 registered Democrats, a highly anemic showing replicated citywide. “That’s the only thing I walk around with sadness about,” he said.
Cassino said he would continue directing the pro bono division of the Manhattan law firm he works at and would “continue to work on issues I care about,” on the community board and as chairman of the Van Cortlandt Park Conservancy.
The one-on-one race was spirited but bitter at times. Koppell and Cassino participated in several debates together, including one organized by the Norwood News. They locked horns on several issues while sitting shoulder to shoulder, but, unlike many other debateless races in the borough, the meetings thoroughly probed issues affecting the community.
Because the candidates were competitive financially, campaign literature from both poured into local voters’ mailboxes, and the attacks became more severe as the primary drew closer.
In a phone interview on Monday, Koppell said Cassino’s campaign “was the best campaign run against me,” adding that the term limits issue added fuel to the fire. He believes his own campaign was invigorated by a large crop of energetic volunteers, including several young people.
Though he is virtually assured of victory in the general election on Nov. 3, he nonetheless will face Conservative Stephen Bradian and Republican Stylo Sapaskis.
Among his legislative priorities in 2010, Koppell said that in response to the city’s controversial program of placing homeless families in residential buildings, he is drafting legislation to require more community board input and to prohibit placing families in buildings that have “C” — the worst — violations.
September 24, 2009
By Alex Kratz
Fernando Cabrera, a 45-year-old pastor and college professor who, a little more than a year ago switched political parties and moved to the Bronx, is poised to become the new City Council representative for the 14th District.
Following an official recount, Cabrera narrowly defeated incumbent Maria Baez by 75 votes to secure the district’s Democratic nomination in the upcoming general election on Nov. 3. (Update: the Board of Elections Certified the election results on Sept. 25.)
Cabrera may face a token Republican challenger in November, but the Board of Elections could not confirm whether or not anyone had made the ballot. Regardless, in the heavily Democratic 14th District, which includes parts of Kingsbridge, University Heights and Mt. Hope, Cabrera is all but assured of filling Baez’s Council seat come January.
With all precincts reporting on primary night, Cabrera had 1,937 votes (38 percent) to Baez’s 1,847 (37 percent). City auditor and community activist Yudelka Tapia finished third with 1,250 votes (25 percent).
“You did it and God did it,” Cabrera told a spirited group of around 100 supporters during his victory speech at a primary night party inside Maestro’s catering hall in Morris Park.
“Some people questioned whether this was going to happen,” Cabrera said. “I’m here to tell you that not only was it going to happen, it did happen!”
Soon after the results were announced, two young women, volunteers with the campaign, embraced and started rocking back and forth, smiling. “We did it,” one of them said.
Across the borough, inside the Monte Carlo nightclub on Jerome Avenue near Kingsbridge Road, the Baez camp was decidedly less cheerful. There were about 30 supporters, many of them paid campaign workers, milling about, watching the results on television.
Primary night ended with Baez trailing Cabrera by a mere 90 votes. There would be a recounting of all the machine ballots as well as the tallying of absentee and any other paper ballots. Though obviously sullen, Baez attempted to strike a defiant tone as she addressed her team.
“This is not over,” she told the small crowd, which included Assemblyman Jose Rivera as well as Council colleague (and Jose’s son) Joel Rivera. “I see everyone, like, sad. We’re not sad, we’re happy. It’s one percent [of the vote] so let’s just relax.”
Later, Baez said, “It’s not over, they say, until the fat lady sings, and this fat lady ain’t singing.”
There was also a hint of resignation and reflection in her remarks.
“It’s been an honor for me, I never would have imagined that I would have been a member of the Council,” she said.
The next day, Baez went on vacation. Last Thursday, Baez, owner of the worst attendance record in the Council, something she was routinely criticized for throughout the campaign, missed another scheduled meeting.
After the recount, Baez still trailed by 69 votes, a margin certified by the Board of Elections on Tuesday.
Assemblyman Carl Heastie, the chairman of the Bronx Democratic Party who took over the position from Jose Rivera following an ugly power struggle and threw tremendous support and resources behind the winning campaign campaign, said Cabrera would inject “fresh blood and new energy” into the Council.
“Cabrera has a tremendous background,” Heastie said. “He’s a pastor and a counselor, so he can relate to the struggles that families here are going through.”
Assemblyman Rivera, Baez’s political mentor, said he was “proud of Maria, she took to the streets, it was a very grassroots operation.” He said the support of the Working Families Party, 1199 SEIU (the healthcare workers union) and the Bronx County Democratic Party tipped the race in Cabrera’s favor, assuming the result stands. “I know what County can do,” the former County boss said.
Because of her atrocious attendance record and other criticism for running up exorbitant cell phone bills, funding questionable organizations, backing pro-landlord legislation and supporting the extension of term limits, Baez was seen as one of the most vulnerable incumbents seeking re-election.
At one point, as many as seven Democratic challengers had announced their intention to run against Baez in the primary. Early this summer, Cabrera, who is of Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage, emerged as the leading contender after picking up the County endorsement, which snowballed into a slew of other party and union support. Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. put his name and words behind Cabrera as well.
That institutional support was compounded by the near fanatical energy of Cabrera’s campaign volunteers, most of them young members of New Life Outreach International, the edgy new wave church Cabrera founded in the northwest Bronx 20 years ago (see sidebar).
The campaign, run by a handful of veteran Democratic operators, including County Communications Director Patrick Jenkins, media handler Fernando Aquino and strategist Venacio “Benny” Catala, ran into a snag after it became public that Cabrera had only moved into the district last August and had voted as a Republican in the last presidential primary.
But it didn’t prove to be his undoing.
At Maestro’s, Cabrera’s camp began celebrating even before the results were finally tallied. A mob of supporters rushed the stage earlier in the night before their candidate had even made an appearance. Banging on hand drums and dancing, dozens of Cabrera supporters began chanting in Spanish: “The Cabrera Era has begun!”
Later, Cabrera echoed that sentiment in his victory speech, saying, “We’re going to start a new era of leadership in the Bronx and the best is yet to come!”
Neighborhood Notes
September 10, 2009
By Norwood News
Community Health Fair
The Montefiore Medical Center North Division is hosting a community health fair on Saturday, September 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to promote health education and knowledge. Free blood pressure readings, dental screenings, HIV testing, nutritional information and a variety of other services will be offered alongside dancing lessons, refreshments, music and additional entertainment. The Montefiore North Division is located at 600 E. 233rd St.
Small Business Workshops
This September, the NYS Small Business Development Center will host two free workshops for small businesses at CUNY on the Concourse (2501 Grand Concourse, Room 317), from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.: “How to Start Your Successful Small Business” on Sept. 16; and “Writing a Successful Business Plan” on Sept. 23. Space is limited. Call (718) 960-8806 to register.
English Help
The Mosholu Library at 285 E. 205th St. is hosting free English conversation classes for foreign language speaking adults (ages 16 and over). Participants will talk to native English speakers about a variety of subjects. Registration and language testing begins on Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 6:30 p.m. and classes will meet on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. starting on Oct. 6. For more information, call (212) 340-0918.
NW Bronx Community Resource Fair
The University Neighborhood Housing Program is providing free banking advice at the Northwest Bronx Community Resource Fair on Sunday, Oct. 4 from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., preceded by a free lunch at noon, at Our Lady of Refuge Parish Center, located at 290 E. 196th St. Fair attendees can attend several financial workshops, and financial, legal and immigration experts at the fair will offer appointments for a brief private counseling session. For more information and to RSVP, call (718) 933-2539.
Foster Parents Needed
The Foster Care Network is reaching out to potential foster parents in the Bronx. Hundreds of foster children in the area need loving and caring families to make a difference in their lives. Foster parents receive tax-free financial assistance for the expenses of each child, free training, and Foster Parent certification. For more information, call (800) 454-3727 or visit www.fostercarenetwork.org.
New IRS YouTube Channel
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has launched a series of videos on YouTube and podcasts on iTunes to help taxpayers take advantage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Visit www.youtube.com/irsvideos to view videos with tax tips and tips for how to utilize the Act’s provisions. Videos will be presented in English, Spanish and other languages. Audio footage with IRS tips will be available via podcast at iTunes, or on IRS.gov’s Multimedia Center for those without an iTunes account.
Volunteers Sought
New York Cares, a volunteer organization that organizes hundreds of volunteer projects, is seeking new volunteers in the Bronx. Volunteers must attend a one-time orientation either on Sept. 23 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. or Sept. 26 from 11 a.m. to noon, to be held at the Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. To register or for additional orientation dates, visit www.newyorkcares.org, or call (212) 228-5000. After completing the orientation, volunteers will be able to participate in a variety of community service projects throughout the Bronx.
Free Adult ESL Classes
PS 94, at 3530 Kings College Place, is offering ESL levels 1 and 2 classes beginning in September and running through June 2010. Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Registration is first-come, first-served. For more information, call Ms. Seminario, the parent coordinator, at (347) 563-4772 or (718) 405-6345.
NMCIR Immigration Assistance
The Northern Manhattan Coalition for Immigrant Rights is offering immigration assistance to Bronxites. There is assistance with U.S. Citizenship, family petitions, and travel permits. It is offered at Refuge House, 2715 Bainbridge Ave., Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (718) 484-8294 or email info@NMCIR.org.
Yoga and Cooking Classes
Bronx Community Board 7 is offering two courses: Beginners yoga classes on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m., Saturdays at 11 a.m. and classes en español Tuesdays at 3 p.m. (with a suggested donation of $10; bring your own mat or one can be provided).; and free cooking classes on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Classes will be held at the South Bronx Food Cooperative, 3103 Third Ave. at 158th Street. For more information or to RSVP, call (718) 401-3500 or email info@sbxfc.org.
Lane Closure
The New York City Department of Transportation will be performing repairs on the University Heights Bridge from 11:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. until September 11. During the time of repairs, one of three lanes on the bridge will be closed. Contact Fred Herschkowitz at 212-839-6307 or fherschkowitz@dot.nyc.gov for more information.
Jobs Helping Youth
Lehman College’s CareerVisions Institute is accepting applications for positions at after-school programs in middle schools and high schools throughout the Bronx. CareerVisions after-school programs prepare youth for community leadership and their future careers. Ideal candidates will have experience working with youth and have an interest in community organizing. Positions pay $15 per hour and are 15 hours per week (Monday through Friday between 2 and 6 p.m.). Email resumes to kenyatta.funderburk@lehman.cuny.edu.
Free Career Information Seminars
The Office of Continuing Education at Lehman College is offering free career information seminars during the week and on some Saturdays until the middle of September. Programs will include advice on forming a career in substance abuse counseling, nursing, financial planning, insurance, paralegal studies and more. Call 718-960-8512 or visit www.lehman.edu/ce for more information and the times and dates of specific classes.
Donate Backpacks to Homeless Children
Bronx BP Ruben Diaz, Jr. is encouraging Bronx residents to donate backpacks and school supplies to “Operation Backpack” before the start of the new school year. “Operation Backpack” provides homeless children and students in New York City with backpacks and school supplies to help them succeed in school. To contribute, drop off a new backpack at the Bronx BP office at 851 Grand Concourse, Room 209. To find out more information about Operation Backpack or to make a donation, visit www.OperationBackpackNYC.org.
Scouting for Girl Scouts
Girls from 5 to 17 years old looking to serve the Bronx community, make friends and learn life skills are encouraged to join the Girl Scouts of the Bronx. For more information about joining a Girl Scout troop, visit www.girlscoutsnyc.org or email webbx@girlscoutsnyc.org.
Auditions for the Riverdale Choral Society
The Riverdale Choral Society is starting to rehearse for their fall concert, a Bach-themed program, titled “Basically Bach.” Singers interested in joining the chorus are encouraged to audition by contacting Music Director John Lettieri at info@riverdalechoral.org or 718-543-2219. Auditions will also be held at an open rehearsal on September 9 at 7:30 p.m. at Christ Church Riverdale (252 St. and Henry Hudson Parkway East). Regular rehearsals for the chorus will take place every Wednesday during the fall from 7:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. at the same location.
Free Medicine Programs for Cancer Patients
The Complimentary Medicine Program at Albert Einstein Cancer Center is offering two free research programs for patients with cancer. The Yoga-Based Cancer Rehabilitation Program includes 12 weeks of yoga to see if yoga can help patients with breast, lung, and colorectal cancer. A certified yoga instructor teaches classes in both English and Spanish. The Mind-Body Cancer Program includes 8 weeks of Mind-Body groups (The Stress Management Education Group and the Spiritual Support Group) for patients with most types of cancer. Some restrictions apply to these groups, which have been specifically designed by a psychologist and an oncologist. For more information and to find out eligibility, call (718) 430-2380.
Breast Oncology Program
The Breast Oncology Living Daily Program also known as BOLD living offers a variety of free educational, support, and mind-body workshops. They are designed to empower and nurture breast cancer patients, survivors, and loved ones, but are open to all. For more information or to register, call (718) 430-3613 or email outreach@aecom.yu.edu.
Volunteer at North Bronx Healthcare
The North Bronx Healthcare Network is seeking volunteers for the Sexual Assault Treatment Program run at North Central Bronx Hospital, Jacobi Medical Center, and Lincoln Medical Center. Those interested should be willing to volunteer twice a month and commit to serving the program for one year. For more information, call (718) 519-4788.
Farmers Market at Botanical Garden
There will be an all day Wednesday and Saturday Farmers Market at the Botanical Garden through Nov. 14. The Wednesday market will be held near Tulip Tree Allee and the Saturday market will be across the street from the Garden’s Mosholu Gate entrance. Vendors from New York’s Hudson Valley region and beyond offer a variety of home grown products, meats and home baked goods. For more information, visit www.nybg.org/edible_garden/farmers_market.php or call (718) 362-9561 and press 403#.
MTA’s Trip Planner Voice
Trip Planner Voice is a telephone service that allows customers to access bus and subway travel itinerary information via telephone 24/7 without the need to wait to speak to an agent. Trip Planner provides customers with the best and most accurate directions, fare information, walking distances and scheduled connections to and from other transit modes and transfers. For more information, and to learn how to get mobile access, visit www.tripplanner.mta.info.
Aid for Veterans and Their Families
The Warriors Family Assistance Program, launched by the American Legion Auxiliary, comes to the direct aid of veterans and their families in New York State. Veterans and their families can apply for up to $1,500 in aid in maintenance grants, medical grants and employment opportunities. Any veteran who has served honorably within the last four years, or is currently serving in one of the Armed Forces, and is a NYS resident, is eligible to apply. All grants are non-repayable. For an application or more information, call (800) 421-6348.
Free Career Information Seminars
Lehman College Office of Continuing Education is holding free career information seminars for its non-credit certificate programs. For dates, times and locations of seminars, please call (718) 960-8512 or visit www.lehman.edu.ce.
Computer Classes at Williamsbridge Oval
The Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center, 3225 Reservoir Oval E., is holding computer classes on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Learn how to use the internet and MS Office software. For more information, contact Albert Davis or Tuwanda Ruffin at (718) 654-1851.
Teen Trailways Summer Camp
Teens entering 7th to 10th grade can enroll in the Teen Trailways program at the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center, which takes campers on day trips to sporting events, Broadway shows, comedy clubs, lakes, beaches, state parks, and amusement parks. Teens can also go on longer trips to Virginia Beach, Toronto and Disney World in Florida. For more information, call (718) 882-4000.
Free Prescription $aver Card
The NY State Health Department is accepting applications for the free New York Prescription $aver Card. The program offers discounts on thousands of prescription medications. It will serve low-income New Yorkers who are disabled or between the ages of 50 and 64. To be eligible, income for single individuals must be $35,000 or less, and $50,000 or less for married individuals. Medicaid and EPIC recipients are not eligible for the Prescription $aver Card. To learn more or apply, visit www.nyprescriptionsaver.fhsc.com or call (800) 788-6917. (TTY users should call (800) 290-9138.) Applications are also available at pharmacies.
School Salon Reopens
The School of Professional Beauty Care at Grace Dodge Career and Technical High School, 2474 Crotona Ave., has reopened The New Image Salon to the public. It’s open every Thursday afternoon from 2:45 to 5:30 p.m., offering a wide variety of salon services at reasonable prices. Prices range from $5 to $25. Graduating seniors in the school’s cosmetology program staff the salon, with a licensed cosmetologist on duty. For more information, call (718) 584-2700 ext. 5084.
Couples Needed for Research Study
Doctors at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center are looking for healthy couples between the ages of 22 and 50, and in a monogamous relationship for at least six months, to participate in a research study. The study will test a vaginal gel and the couple will be screened for sexually transmitted infections. Females will have a gynecologic exam and vaginal fluid collected and males will have a genital exam. Female volunteers will have four visits and be reimbursed $60 per visit, and males volunteers will have three visits and will be reimbursed $40 per visit. Females must be using hormonal contraception. All visits will take place at the Albert Einstein General Clinical Research Center. For more information, call Julie at (718) 430-3253 or email microbicide@aecom.yu.edu.
English, Citizenship and Computer Classes
-MS 80 at 149 E. Mosholu Pkwy N., is offering English as a Second Language (ESL) and General Equivalency Diploma (GED) classes. For those interested, or if you have any questions, call Mrs. Alejandro at (718) 405-6300 ext. 1131.
-Mosholu Montefiore Community Center, 3450 DeKalb Ave., is offering free English as a Second Language (ESL) and Citizenship Classes. Ongoing classes run through June 30. For more information, call (718) 882-4000.
-St. James Recreation Center at 2530 Jerome Ave. offers free classes in Microsoft Office, Resume/Cover Letter Writing, Computer Basics, and much more. For more information, call Justin Young at (718) 367-3659.
-Fordham University, 557 E. Fordham Rd., is currently holding free computer and English Language classes for parents, Mondays through Thursdays and on Saturdays. Classes can either stand alone or as an 8- to 12-week series. For more information or to register, call (718) 817-3503.
Senior Employment
The American Association of Retired Person (AARP) and the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) are assisting low-income Bronx residents, 55 and older, to receive employment through their outreach, training, and internship programs. For more information, call AARP located at 384 E. 149th St., Ste. 608 at (718) 585-2500.
MS 80 Needs Love
MS 80 is asking parents and community members to show some love and volunteer for just an hour each week. The school needs mentors, math and reading tutors, part-time coaches and volunteers to help with cafeteria duty. For more information, call Ms. Alejandro (718) 405-6300 ext. 111.
Free Kids’ Summer Vacations
The Fresh Air Fund is currently registering boys and girls, ages six through 12, for free summer vacations in the homes of volunteer host families throughout the northeast or at one of five Fresh Air Fund summer camps in upstate New York. To find out how to register, call (800) 367-0003 or go to www.freshair.org.
MMCC Grade School & Teen Programs at Tracey Towers
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center is accepting registration for their free after school program at Tracey Towers, 40 W. Mosholu Pkwy. The program meets Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and is open to children in the third through sixth grades. From 6:30 to 9 p.m., the free Teen Center is open for youth ages 12 to 18. Programs include homework help, computers, arts and crafts, sports, acting, and quiet games. To register, stop by the Youth Community Room on the second floor of Tracey Towers and speak to Antoine Fields, or call him at (917) 482-5039.
Self Defense Classes
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center still has space in its boxing, karate, and self-defense classes for children, teens, and adults. To register or find out class times, call (718) 882-4000 ext. 0, or stop by the center at 3450 DeKalb Ave.
Free Meditation for Breast Cancer Survivors
The Montefiore-Einstein Cancer Center is offering a free 20-week course on meditation and stress management for breast cancer survivors. The course is part of a research study. To register or learn more, call Kimala Harris at (718) 430-2380 or e-mail kah2019@med.cornell.edu.
Place for Teens With Issues
The Power Project is a free program for teens ages 12 to 18 who are dealing with substance abuse and other problems. Located at 3464 Webster Ave., Power Project provides case management, individual and group counseling, trips, and is just a place to get away from it all. For more information, call (718) 515-7971.
Wii Games for Adults and Seniors
On Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4 p.m., adults and seniors can enjoy free Wii video games at the Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St. To sign up, go to the Adult Information Desk. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.
Free Parking Calendars
Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz is offering free New York City Parking Calendars to community residents. To receive one, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to his office at 3107 Kingsbridge Ave., Bronx, NY 10463, or stop by the office in person.
Free Career Workshops
The State University of New York, located at 3950 Laconia Ave., is offering free career workshops, including job readiness training, resume and cover letter preparation, help with job searches and computer skills, job placement assistance, an Office Skills Certificate Program, college prep and more. For more information, call (718) 547-1001 or visit www.NBX.SUNYEOC.org.
After School Care
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center, 3450 DeKalb Ave., provides after school care for children in elementary school. Children are transported from their schools in Norwood, Bedford Park, Williamsbridge and Van Cortlandt Village. The center provides a snack, help with homework, and an array of activities to keep children busy. Financial aid is available. For more information, call Ruth Moore, program registrar, at (718) 882-4000.
Schizophrenia Study Seeks Participants
A research study seeking new treatments for schizophrenia is looking for patients in the Bronx. Candidates must be 18 to 65 years old, diagnosed with schizophrenia at or before age 35 and currently on certain medications for schizophrenia. Patients can enroll through the first half of 2009. For more information, call (888) 988-6736 or go to www.cognitivestudy.com.
Job Opportunities
On Dec. 1, Mayor Bloomberg announced the expansion of free job placement services through New York City’s Workforce1 Career Centers. The centers provide personalized career counseling, interview training, resume/cover letter assistance, workshops and ESL classes. For more information, call the Bronx Workforce1 Center, 358 E. 149th St., (718) 960-7099.
Quality of Life Screening
The Psychosocial Oncology Program of the Montefiore-Einstein Cancer Center is conducting a survey study in order to learn about the physical and emotional stresses faced by cancer survivors. Participants will have to fill out questionnaires and have the opportunity to participate in free/low-cost programs and support services within the program. For more information, call (718) 430-2380.
Alzheimer’s Support Group
The Alzheimer’s Association’s New York City chapter provides a support group in Norwood for Spanish and English speaking caregivers who have relatives with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia. The support group meets on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 5 to 6:15 p.m. For the location or more information, call Mark Goodwin at (718) 920-7377.
Free Respite Program
Kingsbridge Heights Community Center (KHCC) is offering free after-school services to families with mentally retarded or developmentally disabled children ages 5 to 21 from 3 to 6 p.m. KHCC is also offering a Saturday Respite Program for ages 15 to 25, and on Sundays another Respite Program is provided for ages 18 to 65. Weekend Respite Program hours are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are held at the KHCC, 3101 Kingsbridge Terrace (near Sedgwick Avenue) at West 230th Street. To register or for more information, call Hanna Gabris at (718) 884-0700 ext. 202.
Speech Program at Ursula
The Mt. St. Ursula Speech Center, 2885 Marion Ave., is now accepting applications for its fall program. The center has openings for children ages 2 to 5 who are in need of speech and language services. Medicaid and other insurances accepted. For more information, call (718) 584-7679.
Aphasia Clinic Accepting Clients
The Lehman College Speech and Hearing Center, which provides therapy on a sliding scale payment schedule, is now accepting new clients in its recently expanded aphasia clinic. The clinic will provide individual and group therapy sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 1 p.m. and 2 to 3 p.m.; group therapy sessions also take place on Tuesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. Diagnostic and therapeutic sessions will be supervised by faculty members who are licensed by the NYS Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and certified by ASHA (American Speech Language Hearing Association). For more information, call Wanda Adams at (718) 960-8138.
Adult ESL Level 1and 2 Classes
Beginning September 2009 through June 2010, P.S. 94x will be offering Level 1 and 2 ESL classes on Tuesday and Thursdays from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. For more information, contact Ms. Seminario, at (347) 563-4772 or (718) 405- 6345. You can also come to room 201 for more information and for sign up.
Job Fair
Monroe College is hosting a part-time job fair at the Radisson Hotel in New Rochelle, New York, on October 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be no charge for employers interested in hiring at the fair. Employers should call 914-740-6480 to RSVP.
Out & About
September 10, 2009
By Judy Noy
Onstage
The Mosholu Library, located at 285 E. 205th St., presents A Salsa Concert, featuring Jose Obando and His Ensemble, free, Sept. 19 at 2:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.
The Bronx Library Center, located at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, hosts two concerts: Jerry Hernandez and La Orquesta Dee Jay, Sept. 12 at 2:30 p.m.; and The Dixie Rascals, Sept. 19 at 2:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.
52 People for Progress will host, free: Its 19th annual 52 Latin Jazz Concert Series ’09, Sept. 16 and 23 at 7:30 p.m., at 52 Park/The Miranda Theatre on Kelly Street between Avenue St. John and Leggett Avenue. For more information, call (718) 548-0315, (646) 250-8785, or (917) 742-9145.
Lehman College presents a Violin/Piano Duo, free, Sept. 23 at 7 p.m. in the Recital Hall, 3rd floor Music Building, 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W. For more information, call (718) 960-8247.
Events
Norwood resident Bobby Gonzalez, a Taino Indian and master storyteller, will host Bronx Native-American Festival on Sept. 20 from noon to 4 p.m. at Pelham Bay Park, South Picnic Area, entrance at Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue. This free event features food, arts and crafts, music, dance and mythology. For more information, call (718) 430-1890.
Lehman College, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., hosts “Secrets to Becoming More Parental: Insights From a Male Prairie Vole,” presented by Prof. Maryam Bamshad from the Department of Biological Sciences, Sept. 23 from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. For more information, call (718) 960-1160.
The New York Botanical Garden presents several events this fall: The Edible Garden, taking place through Sept. 13, features edible plants, teaches vegetable growing, and offers celebrity food presentations (Emeril Lagasse is scheduled to appear on Sept. 12). The Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden offers Gardens ‘Round the World featuring Caribbean Garden, a pinwheel-shaped plot garden featuring Caribbean crops; as well as Lenape Life which takes place Tuesdays through Fridays from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. through Sept. 27, and offers samples of freshly popped corn as well as succotash made with fruits from corn, beans, and squash. Visitors can sit inside an authentic wigwam and create a cornhusk doll. The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden will hold Ballet Among the Blooms, Sept. 26 from 3 to 5 p.m. Farmers Market/Greenmarket will run through Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays at the base of the Library Allee and Saturdays at the Metro-North Parking Area near Mosholu Gate. Visitors can learn about composting, recycling and growing vegetables at noon, and can take part in cooking or gardening demonstrations. Resplendent Roses will be on display in the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden, weekends from Sept. 19 through Oct. 11, and features care of roses during tours, gardening demonstrations, and Q&A sessions with experts. For more information and a detailed schedule, call (718) 817-8700 or visit nybg.org.
Exhibits
Beyond Appearances, an exhibition bringing together a group of approximately 40 artists, includes painting, drawing, sculpture, video, and installation, will be on display Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 10 to Dec. 1 at the Lehman College Art Gallery, Fine Arts Building, 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W. For more information, call (718) 960-8731.
The Bronx River Art Center, located at 1087 E. Tremont Ave., presents an exhibition, Black Gold, through Sept. 12. The exhibit features painting, sculpture, and installation. For more information, call (718) 589-5819.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse at 165th Street, presents an exhibition series commemorating the Grand Concourse’s centennial, featuring The Grand Concourse Commissions, through Jan. 4. Originally called the Grand Boulevard, the Grand Concourse celebrates its 100th year in 2009. For more information, call (718) 681-6000 or visit www.bronxmuseum.org.
Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. invites the public to an opening wine and cheese reception for Lifted Up in New York City, a photo exhibition by Lanie McNulty, on Sept. 22 at 6 p.m. at the president’s Art Gallery, Bronx County Building, 851 Grand Concourse, Suite 301. For more information or to confirm your attendance, call (718) 590-3989.
Learning
The Bronx Library Center has events for all ages:
For children and preschoolers, there is films, Sept. 16 and 23 at 4 p.m.; Preschool Romp/Tales for the Teeny Tiny, Sept. 10, 12, 17 and 24 at 11 a.m.; and Family Time, Sept. 19 at 11 a.m.
Also, for school-aged children, there is Junior Reactors, Sept. 12 at 2 p.m.; Make an Apple Book, Sept. 17 at 4 p.m.; Slime Time, Sept. 19 at 2 p.m.; and Meet Children’s Author and Poet Ken Nesbitt, Sept. 20 at 2 p.m.
For adults, there is SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness: Practical Advice to Keep Your Brain Sharp, Sept. 23 at 10 a.m.
The Center is located at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road. For a detailed schedule, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.
The Jerome Park Library, at 118 Eames Place, presents Storytelling, Sept. 11 at 3:30 p.m.; and Toddler Story Time, Sept. 18 at 11 a.m.; both for school aged children. For more information, call (718) 549-5200.
A HAPPY AND HEALTHY ROSH HASHANA TO ALL OUR JEWISH READERS!
NOTE: Items for consideration should be received in our office by Sept. 14 for the next publication date of Sept. 24.
Giving Foster Kids a Boost Back to School
September 10, 2009
By Molly Ryan
“It is so exciting!” squeals Sying, a 7-year-old foster child, upon receiving a brand new backpack from Abbott House, a care provider for foster and adopted children. “I love it,” Sying beams.
On the afternoon of Aug. 31, a little more than a week before school started, Sying and her four foster siblings each received one of 400 new backpacks given away at the Abbott House’s Bronx Family Service office on Jerome Avenue, courtesy of “Friends and Family United.”
“This saved me from buying a backpack,” said Meva Newbold, an adoptive and foster parent who has been involved with Abbott House for over five years. “It has been a big help.”
Dr. Luis Rodriguez, the senior vice president of Abbot House, explained that the families of the 600 foster and adopted children “need as much support as possible.” Most Abbott House parents take in as many children as they can support from the ages of zero to 21, which often means caring for four or more children at a time.
With new abandoned and neglected children coming to Abbott House daily, foster parents are always in demand. “It is very difficult to find foster parents,” said Rodriguez. “Many children have major emotional disturbances.”
Schooling is another problem. “Most children are learning disabled because of a lack of stimulation or schooling,” Rodriguez said.
Abbott House strives to remedy these problems. Abbott House offers services such as “Therapeutic Foster Boarding Homes,” which provide “emotional therapy and behavior management at home,” said Rodriguez.
Abbott House also provides tutorial services to any child two years behind in school, according to Rodriguez. Many foster homes also have a “traveling tutor,” who visits a variety of homes and helps children with their schoolwork.
The extra help is working. “We have quite a few children that have completed college and a few who have service jobs in the military,” said Gregory Angelo, a Public Relations Coordinator for Abbott House.
However, many children do not have to stay in foster care after their high school years because the main goal of Abbott House “is to return the children back to their family,” Rodriguez said. In 2008, 96 percent of children were returned to their families, according to an Abbott House annual report.
When children cannot return to their biological family, Abbott House encourages parents to adopt their foster children. Meva Newbold is one of these parents. She adopted her daughter, Natasha, this April after caring for her for five years in foster care.
“I went in [to Abbott House] to adopt,” explained Newbold. Now, Newbold and Natasha are a happy family. “I have lots of fun with my mom,” said Natasha.
With the school year about to start, Natasha is excited to return to MS 180 for 7th grade with her new backpack. “My favorite classes are art, vocals, film and computers,” Natasha said.
Passing by a grinning Natasha, another parent, Alicia McCollum, collected backpacks for her five foster children. “This is a beautiful thing they [Abbott House] are doing for the kids,” she said. “They do a lot of stuff for the kids to make them this happy.”
2009 Primary Voter’s Guide: Vote on Sept. 15
September 10, 2009
By Alex Kratz
11th District Council (Norwood, Bedford Park, Woodlawn, Riverdale)
Tony Perez Cassino
Age: 44
Occupation: Assistant Director of Public Service at Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP law firm.
History: Grew up in the Bedford Park area, went to John F. Kennedy High School, and later New York University for law.
Involvement: Director of Pro Bono Affairs for the New York State Bar Association in 1996; Chairman of Bronx Community Board 8, 2004-2008; Created the Coalition of Riverdale/Kingsbridge Schools and the Northwest Bronx Democratic Alliance, 2001; Board Chairman of the Riverdale Nursery School and Family Center, Adolescent and Family Comprehensive Services, as well as serving on the board of Bronx Legal Services.
Endorsements: SEIU United Healthcare Workers Union, Firefighters Union
Issues/Concerns: Fighting over-development in Bronx neighborhoods, improving city parks and landmarks, strengthening economic development, bettering education and school safety and fighting corruption.
Web site:
www.cassinoforcouncil.com
Oliver Koppell (Incumbent)
Age: 69
Occupation: Politician, Lawyer at his firm, G. Oliver Koppell & Associates
History: Went to Bronx High School of Science, Harvard College and Harvard Law School. Member of the New York State Assembly from 1970-1994, elected to New York State Attorney General in 1994, President of the Community School Board for District 10, has been the New York City Council Member for District 11 since 2001.
Involvement: Chair of the Committee on Mental Health, Mental Retardation, Alcoholism, Drug Abuse and Disability Services, and a member of the Finance, Consumer Affairs, Education, Community Development, Transportation, Environmental Protection, and Technology in Government Committees.
Endorsements: Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., Assemblyman Jose Rivera, Congressman Jose Serrano, ACORN, Tenants Political Action Committee, Working Families Party
Issues/Concerns: Public safety, conserving energy and environmental awareness, universal healthcare, tenant rights, youth programs, and support for senior citizens.
Web site: www.koppell2009.com
14th District Council (Kingsbridge, University Heights, Mt. Hope)
Yudelka Tapia
Age: 45
Occupation: Senior Auditor for the City of New York
History: Emigrated to Bronx in 1988 from the Dominican Republic where she was president of a national organization to educate women, attended O & M University (D.R.) in Accounting, and later Bronx Community College for computer science, moved to New York in the early ’90s.
Involvement: Founder of the Great Alliance Democratic Club in 1994; founded the Center for the Development and Protection of Dominicans; on the Board of Directors for the Center of Alternative Communication, Young Adults Against Drugs and Alcohol, and on the Executive Board of the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO- DC37, Local 1407.
Endorsements: North West Bronx Democrats, Local 1359, Local 768, Political Parent Party
Issues/Concerns: Affordable housing, immigration amnesty, fighting domestic violence, supporting senior citizens, protecting the Kingsbridge Armory, better health care, supporting small businesses, “greener” neighborhoods, and government transparency.
Website: www.yudelkatapia.com
Fernando Cabrera
Age: 45
Occupation: Pastor, Counseling Program Director at Mercy College
History: Began as substance abuse counselor, created the first Mental Health Counseling graduate program in New York State at Mercy College, worked as bilingual school counselor, started New Life Outreach International Church with wife, and became the pastor of his church.
Involvement: Was co-chair of the Hispanic-Jewish Relations Task Force for President Adolfo Carrion, partnered with DARE, advocated for revitalization of the Fordham Library and living wages at the Kingsbridge Armory.
Endorsements: Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., Assemblymen Adriano Epaillat, Jose Peralta and Carl Heastie, Bronx Democratic Party, ACORN, Working Families Party, SEIU United Healthcare Workers Union
Issues/Concerns: Increasing youth development through education, creating jobs, rights of working families, affordable housing, rising food prices, mental health, and alternative energy.
Website: www.fernandocabrera.us
Maria Baez (Incumbent)
Age: 51
Occupation: Politician
History: Attended PS 109, JHS 82 and Walton High School, attended Monroe College, and later Lehman College, started career working as an administrator with Assemblyman Jose Rivera.
Involvement: Chaired the State and Federal Legislation; on Finance, Health, and Planning Committees; formed the 2300 Tenants Block Association; was Chief Clerk of the Bronx Board of Elections; the Executive Director of The Housing Workshop, and later Chair of the Committee on Aging
Endorsements: Mayoral candidate Bill Thompson, former Bronx Borough President Fernando Ferrer, Assemblyman Jose Rivera, City Council Speaker Christine Quinn
Issues/Concerns: Affordable housing, senior center improvements, services for older adults, more playgrounds for youth, domestic violence protection.
Website: www.council.nyc.gov
Citywide Elections:
Mayor:
Tony Avella (D)
www.tonyavellaformayor.com
Jimmy McMillan (D)
www.mcmillan09.org
Roland Rogers (D)
RR4mayornyc.com
William C. Thompson, Jr. (D) www.thompson2009.com
Public Advocate:
Bill de Blasio (D)
www.billdeblasio.com
Eric Gioia (D)
www.EricGioia.com
Mark Green (D)
www.markgreen.com
Norman Siegel (D)
www.normansiegel.com
Imtiaz Shabbir Syed (D) www.imtiazsyed.com
Comptroller:
Salim Ejaz (D)
www.salejaz.com
Melinda Katz (D)
www.melindakatzforny.com
John C. Liu (D) www.liunewyork.com
David I. Weprin (D)
www.davidweprin2009.com
David Yassky (D)
www.davidyassky.com
For information on campaign contributions, go to the Campaign Finance Board’s Website at www.nyccfb.info.
On Voting Day:
The primary election date is Tuesday, Sept. 15. Polling sites around the city will be open on that day from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. If you do not go to the correct polling site indicated for your address you won’t be able to vote.
If you cannot make it to the polls, you can go to the Board of Elections borough office in the Bronx (at 1780 Grand Concourse 5th floor) and request to vote early from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on any day before the election. If you are voting by mail you must request an Absentee Ballot Application by phone (1-800-FOR-VOTE), online, or in person, stating the reason for voting absentee along with your name and mailing address.
If you have questions on how to find your nearest polling place or for qualifications on who can vote, visit the Board of Elections Website: www.vote.nyc.ny.us/pollingplaces or call (718) 299-9017.
To find out more information regarding the election, as well as to hear statements from the candidates, visit the Voter Assistance Commission’s Website at www.nyc.gov/voter.
Worries Over New School
September 10, 2009
By None
I have concerns about the new school that is scheduled to be constructed on the site of a former parking lot on Webster Avenue and East 205th Street. While I understand the need for more classroom seats in a district that has been chronically overcrowded for years, the 11 two-family homes that are adjacent to the property will have to endure months, perhaps years, of noise, traffic, dust, and loss of privacy. My neighbors are as apprehensive as I am about the proximity of this construction project to our backyards and the impact that the dust and pollution from the site will have on those with upper respiratory ailments. My immediate neighbor is 94 years old and ailing, with her bedroom facing Webster Avenue. Moreover, most of our homes are more than 75 years old, and any drilling into the bedrock may result in structural damage to many of the older, wood-frame houses. I would like to know if the School Construction Authority and the Department of Education will take these concerns into consideration and work with the homeowners to minimize the disruption and upheaval that this capital project is sure to produce.
Betty Diana Arce
Protecting Our Neighbors
September 10, 2009
By None
One of our seniors was recently mugged during the daytime hours in his apartment building. He was robbed and badly injured. At present, he is slowing recovering from his injuries. We are all outraged to see a friend and, for that matter, anyone suffer such a brutal and unnecessary attack. Fortunately, his building has security cameras and there are photos of the suspect. Even with the photos of the suspect we have no arrest yet from the 52nd Precinct. Is this case and other similar ones a priority for our police? Currently, there has been no information given to very concerned and frightened members of the community.
Let this be a message to all to be aware of the stranger who is entering the building or elevator with you. If you are uncomfortable with a stranger, do not enter the building or elevator until someone else comes along. Robbers take advantage of situations that present themselves and prey especially on the senior population. Let’s take an active part in not being singled out as a victim of a crime.
I want to commend Tryax Realty and other owners for having security cameras in their buildings. It is an important measure for the safety of all the tenants but especially for senior citizens who are more vulnerable. We demand all owners of apartment buildings in our neighborhood who do not have security cameras for the safety of their tenants to install them and to keep them in working order. We encourage tenants to ask their building owners for security cameras if you do not have them.
A second commendation goes to our neighborhood. I have been working at St. Brendan’s Church in Senior Outreach for seven years and in my work with the seniors and others here in Norwood, I have been impressed on many occasions at the respect and care people have for one another and especially for their senior neighbors. In many buildings, tenants are especially vigilant about the safety of their senior neighbors. That’s one of the things that makes our neighborhood special – people caring for and about one another. What more can we do to build community and keep our neighborhood safer? Let’s get our politicians and police more involved and report to us in the Norwood community what actions they have taken and will continue to take to prevent a similar crime against all citizens of this neighborhood.
Sister Catherine Naughton O.P.
Movie on Mosholu
September 10, 2009
By Jordan Moss
Drivers and pedestrians did double takes Thursday as they passed the center mall of Mosholu Parkway. They were awestruck by the appearance of a giant blow-up movie screen and people sitting in lawn chairs and on blankets there. Assemblywoman Naomi Rivera arranged for the showing of the Disney film “Wall-E” on the parkway.
One woman crossing the parkway in scrubs on her way home from work and smiling ear-to-ear said it reminded her of drive-in movies and that the event felt like a sign of a neighborhood comeback.
The film was rained out the weekend before, but several dozen people turned out on the new date nonetheless. Fernando Tirado of Community Board 7 recommended the site and handed out surveys to residents, asking whether they would like to see films and other events on the parks. We think we know the answer most gave.
Attend Debate on Sept. 10 and Vote On Sept. 15
September 10, 2009
By Editorial
If you’re a registered Democrat, you are eligible to vote in the Democratic primary on Sept. 15. (Unfortunately, there is scarcely a two-party system in the Bronx, so victories on Primary Day are tantamount to election.)
When a community turns out strong at the polls, whomever it votes for, it sends a powerful message to elected officials that it cannot be taken for granted.
Another way to send a message, if you’re reading this on Sept. 10, is to come to the debate we’re sponsoring tonight for the Council candidates in the 11th District at the Mosholu Library (see front page for details).
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