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Out & About

By Judy Noy

Onstage

The Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. E., presents Golden Gospel, a concert featuring singer/minister Donnie McClurkin and Bronx gospel group Livré on Saturday, March 27 at 8 p.m. (tickets are $55 to $75); and Klezmer Conservatory Band on April 11 at 3 p.m. (tickets are $15 to $25; $10 for ages 12 and under). For more information, call (718) 960-8490/8833.

Lehman College, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W. presents Classical Music, A Promise of Spring, performed by the Lehman College Community Band in the Lovinger Theatre, March 28 at 2 p.m.; and Chamber Music, performed by musicians on April 11 at 2 p.m. in the Recital Hall, Music Building, 3rd floor; both free. For more information, call (718) 960-8247.

The Bronx Arts Ensemble presents Babar the Little Elephant in the New York Botanical Garden’s Ross Lecture Hall on April 4 at 1 and 3 p.m.; and Romantic Chamber Music at Fordham University Church on April 8 at 1 p.m. For more information, call (718) 601-7399.

The Bronx Library Center, at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, hosts Papo Pepin y Su Orchestra, March 27 at 2:30 p.m.; and David Glukh Klesmer Quartet in Concert, April 3 at 2:30 p.m.; both free. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.

The Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance (BAAD), located at 841 Baretto St., presents its annual festival featuring women artists, all at 8 p.m.: An Evening With Cherrie Moraga, reading from her essays, plays and new works, March 26 ($20); Drama and Comedy featuring Carmelita Tropicana and Carolyn Ritteray, April 1 ($15); MIX NYC Presents HOME, featuring short films and videos curated by Experimental Queer Festival, April 2 ($5 suggested donation); and United Voices of Song, featuring four singers and musical acts, April 3 ($20). For more information, to reserve, or for a class schedule, call (718) 842-5223.

Events

The RiverdaleYonkers Society for Ethical Culture, located at 4450 Fieldston Rd., presents Beethoven the Cello Sonatas, music on film, March 27 at 7 p.m. Admission is $5. For more information, call (718) 548-4445.

The Bronx Museum, located at 1040 Grand Concourse (at 165th Street), presents First Fridays! Cubanísimo!, short films, live bands, and DJs celebrating the arts and music of Cuba, April 9 from 6 to 10 p.m., free, in the North Building, 2nd floor. For more information, call (718) 681-6000.

The Friends of Van Cortlandt Park invites the public to its Hike-a-Thon, May 1 starting at 10 a.m., to help raise funds for the restoration of the park’s hiking trails by seeking out supporters to sponsor their hike. Participants who raise $25 or more will receive gifts. Registration deadline is April 7. For more information, call (718) 601-1460 or visit www.vancortlandt.org.

Wave Hill, located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, offers a family art project: Prints With Plants, to make designs from leaves and flowers using ink and rollers, April 3 and 4; in the Kerlin Learning Center from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, call (718) 549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

The New York Botanical Garden is currently hosting Chocolate and Vanilla Adventures, an educational children’s program which takes place in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden where children learn the plant origins of these two sweet treats, as well as participating in hands-on activities and tastings. This program complements the Orchid Show: Cuba in Flower. The flower show features plants of Old Havana and the Cuban countryside, and on weekends during the exhibition, there will be home gardening demonstrations and Q&A with experts. Both programs run through April 11. For more information and schedules, call (718) 817-8700 or visit www.nybg.org.

Lehman College, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., hosts a lecture, “Beyond Tolerance,” on March 25 at 11 a.m. in the Lovinger Theatre, given by Ambassador John L. Loeb. Jr., a former US ambassador to Denmark. For more information, call (718) 960-8294.

Exhibits

The Bronx Museum, at 1040 Grand Concourse (at 165th Street, North Building entrance), invites the public to its free Open House, March 28 from noon to 6 p.m. to celebrate the launch of two civil rights exhibitions through the works of young African-American artists: “Road to Freedom” featuring 150 vintage photographs showing acts of discrimination and moments of unity among its citizens between 1956 and 1968; and “After 1968” showing the civil rights legacy. Through Aug. 11. For more information, call (718) 681-6000.

The Lehman College Art Gallery, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. E., presents two free exhibits: State of the Dao: Chinese Contemporary Art – Dao is an ancient Chinese concept meaning ‘way,” “path,” or “natural working of the universe”; and Nature, Once Removed: Flora and Fauna in Contemporary Drawing, featuring work of 20 artists of animals, plants, and landscapes. Both exhibits run through May 4. For more information and a schedule, call (718) 960-8731.

Lehman College hosts traveling exhibit, “Forever Free: Abraham Lincoln’s Journey to Emancipation,” in the Leonard Lief Library, through April 30. Included is a recital/lecture, “Music in the Time of War,” and “Music in Gotham: The New York Musical Scene in the Age of Lincoln,” April 8 at 12:30 p.m. in the Music Building, Recital Hall 3rd floor; room 306; all free. For more information, call (718) 960-8577/8715.

The Bronx Council on the Arts, located at the Longwood Art Gallery at Hostos Community College, 450 Grand Concourse (at 149th Street), hosts three exhibitions through May 7: In the City: Memory, Places and Spaces, which includes works on migration and urban planning; Transmit-Transit: Hatuey Ramos-Fermin @ The Project Room, featuring traveling in the city and ethnic diversity; and Impractical Hats: Indie Crafts Reinvent Everyday Gear, featuring construction of hats in unorthodox ways. For more information, call (718) 931-9500.

Library Events

The Bronx Library Center, at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, presents the following programs for preschoolers and school-aged children: Toddler Story Time, March 27 at 11 a.m.; Preschool Story Time, March 25, April 1 and 8 at 11 a.m.; Straight Caterpillar Making, March 25 at 4 p.m.; films, March 31 and April 7 at 4 p.m.; Funny Bunny Making, April 1 at 4 p.m.; and Cool Rainforest Connections, April 3 at 2 p.m. For teens and young adults, there is Crafternoons, March 26, April 2 and 9 at 3:30 p.m. Adults can attend Russian Avant-Garde, a lecture/slideshow, March 29 at 6 p.m., on modern art in Russia from 1909 to 1933. Adult immigrants are invited to Helping Haitians Living in the US, to understand temporary protected status, March 26 at 2 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.

The Mosholu Library, at 285 E. 205th St., hosts Marvels of Motion, April 9 at 3 p.m. for children. For teens and young adults, there is Teen Tech Time, for extra computer time, March 31 and April 7 at 4 p.m. Adults can attend Knitting Circle, March 25, April 1 and 8 at 3 p.m. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.

The Jerome Park Library, at 118 Eames Place, presents Making Music, April 9 at 11 a.m., for children. For teens and young adults, there is Crafternoons, April 1 and 8 at 4 p.m. For more information, call (718) 549-5200.

A HAPPY AND HEALTHY PASSOVER TO ALL OUR JEWISH READERS AND A JOYOUS EASTER TO ALL OUR CHRISTIAN READERS!
                                           
NOTE: Items for consideration may be mailed to our office or sent to norwoodnews@norwoodnews.org, and should be received by March 29 for the next publication date of April 8.
 

Neighborhood Notes

By Norwood News

Census Jobs Available
The U.S. Census Bureau is hiring as many as 750,000 temporary workers by May to help with the 2010 Census. Census-taker positions are open to U.S. citizens 18 and over and most require a valid driver’s license and use of a vehicle. You can work within your neighborhood with good pay and flexible hours. To apply and schedule an appointment to take the employment test, call your local census office at (347) 284-0213 or the Census Bureau’s toll free Jobs line at (866) 861-2010. A photo ID and a valid passport or birth certificate must be brought to the test site. For more information or to download an application, visit http://2010.census.gov/2010censusjobs/.

Summer Resort Worker Training Program
Lehman College and City Tech of the City University of New York, along with Councilman Oliver Koppell, are offering a summer employment program for college students interested in working in the hospitality industry. They are currently looking to recruit 30 students to work at camps and resorts throughout New York and the Metro area. Applicants must be 18 or older and have a valid college ID. Applicants must by motivated and willing to live in a camp, hotel or resort for the summer. There is limited enrollment. For more information, call Arlene McLaren at Koppell’s office (718) 549-7300.

Bronx Parks Speak Up!
The 16th Annual Bronx Parks Speak Up, featuring presentations, workshops and a panel discussion, all on the environment and health, will be held on Saturday, April 10 at the Lehman College Faculty Dining Room. Registration will be from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by refreshments, lunch, and live music until 5 p.m. For more information or to register, email bxspeakup@hotmail.com.

Free Tax Prep at UNHP
University Neighborhood Housing Program (UNHP) and Ariva will offer FREE income tax preparation services to low and moderate income residents at the Refuge House, 2715 Bainbridge Ave. Returns are e-filed, which means clients who opt for direct deposit will receive refunds in as little as 10 days, without having to pay unnecessary Rapid Anticipation Loans (RAL), Pay Stub Loans, and/or costly tax preparation fees. Service is available on Wednesday, April 7 (from 1 to 7 p.m.) and Saturdays, March 27 and April 10 (from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) for individuals and families whose gross income in 2009 was $56,000 or less. Appointments are required. Call UNHP at (718) 933-2539 to schedule an appointment or for more information.

Free Cancer Programs
Albert Einstein Cancer Center is offering two free research programs for cancer patients to help cope with the stress and concerns of the disease. The “Yoga Based Cancer Rehabilitation Program” includes 12 weeks of yoga classes as research to see if yoga can help people with breast, lung and colorectal cancer. There is also the “Stress Management for the Mind, Body & Spirit Program,” which is for eight weeks and offers group discussions on how to cope with stress and other physical and emotional difficulties along with helping patients become more in touch with their spiritual side while dealing with cancer. For more information or to find out if you are eligible to participate, call (718) 430-2380. In addition, free workshops are offered to cancer patients and loved ones by the Bronx Oncology Living Daily Program, featuring fitness and nutrition. For more information, call (718) 430-3613.

Food Drive
The Riverdale-Yonkers Society for Ethical Culture, located at 4450 Fieldston Rd., is having an ongoing food drive, seeking canned food, that will benefit the Kingsbridge-Riverdale-Marble Hill Food and Hunger Project, Inc. Perishable or expired foods will not be accepted. For more information, call (718) 548-4445.

Reawakening Faith at New Day Church
The public is invited to New Day Church’s Reawakening Faith Series, Sundays at 11 a.m.: “Reawaken Hope” on March 28, and “Reawaken Community” on April 4. Services are held at the Academy of Mt. St. Ursula campus on East 199th Street and Bainbridge Avenue. For more information, visit www.newdaybronx.org.

Service Changes on 2 and 5 Trains
Beginning Saturday, March 27 and for the next 18 months through August 2011, there will be no weekday rush hour 5-train express service in either direction between East 180th Street and 3rd Avenue/149th Street. During this time, 5-trains will make all 2-train local stops. The service change is necessary in order to support two projects on the 2 and 5 lines, including new signal equipment and various station improvements. These service changes are anticipated to add five minutes to riders’ trips. For travel information, call (718) 330-1234.

DCA Offers Funding to Nonprofits
The Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) is accepting applications for funding through their Cultural Development Fund (CDF). Nonprofit organizations whose purpose is to provide arts and cultural programs are eligible. Grants range from $5,000 to $300,000. Applicants seeking support during the Fiscal Year 2011 for the first time must submit an online only application by midnight March 29. The application and directions can be found by visiting www.nyc.gov.gov/culture. For more information, call DCA Programs Help Desk at (212) 513-9381.

Juvenile Fire Setters Intervention Program
Fire Commissioner Salvatore J. Cassano wants to remind parents concerned about their child’s inappropriate interest in fire that the free Juvenile Fire Setters Intervention Program is available to help them. For more information, call 311.

Crime Prevention Alert
Due to the high rise on the theft of removable automobile GPSs, the NYPD offers some crime prevention tips: Park in highly visible areas, detach GPS and mounting bracket from windshield, eliminate all evidence that a GPS is in the car including suction cup marks and wires. Do not leave any other electronics or any property visible in the vehicle. Keep your vehicle’s console and interior free of clutter. For more tips, visit the crime prevention website at www.nyc,gov/html/nypd.

Mobile Mammography Van
On Tuesday, April 13 a Mobile Mammography Van will be available for women 40 and over who haven’t had a mammogram in the past year, at 3450 DeKalb Ave. for free or at a low fee. Mosholu Montefiore Senior Center and the American Italian Cancer Foundation are sponsoring this visit. No co-payment will be charged to women with health insurance and no bill will be sent. Women without insurance will be screened for free. To make an appointment, call (800) 453-8378 ext. 1 or (718) 882-4000 ext. 342.

MMCC Little League
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center Little League, at 3450 DeKalb Ave., is registering for the spring baseball season for boys and girls ages 5 to 15. There is also an all girl softball division for girls 9-15 who do not want to participate in a co-ed division. All children receive full uniform and trophy for participating. The fee is $100 plus $20 for accident insurance. To register, bring a copy of the child’s birth certificate and payment to the Center, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. For more information or to volunteer as a coach, call Chris Pinto at (718) 882-4000 ext. 0 or 280.

Spring Semester at Bronx River Art Center
Come register for the spring semester at the Bronx River Art Center (BRAC) on 1087 E. Tremont Avenue. Registration is from March 22 – April 10, Mon-Fri 3-6 p.m. and Saturday April 10, 12 – 4:30 p.m. This spring semester will be the last session of classes in the building for the next two years because the building will be undergoing renovations. For more information call (718) 589-5819 or visit www.bronxriverart.org.

Business Workshops at Lehman College
On Wednesday, March 31 Lehman is offering two FREE business related workshops. From 9:30 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. the Minority/Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Workshop will take place where you can learn about certifications, resources and opportunities for MWBEs. There will also be a guest speaker and panel from companies such as SOBRO, NYC Business Solutions and others. Following will be the Green Business Workshop from 1 –2 p.m. teaching how to take advantage of green businesses initiatives and programs and also how to save money on energy costs. Admission is FREE. Breakfast and lunch will also be served. The workshops will be held at Lehman College in the Music Building. To register, contact Nancy Beltrez at (718) 960-8806 or email clarence.stanley@lehman.cuny.edu.

Walk Now for Autism
Autism Speaks, the nation’s largest autism advocacy organization has announced that the New York City Walk Now for Autism will be on June 13. The kick-off event in the Bronx will take place at Fordham University Saturday, March 27 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Conference on Elder Abuse & The Latino Community
On Thursday, April 22 from 9:30 a.m.- 3 p.m. “Contra Viento y Marea” A conference on Elder Abuse & the Latino Community will be held at Lincoln Medical & Mental Health Center Auditorium on 234 East 149 Street. The presentation will focus on different types of elder mistreatment and abuse and also on the help that is available. The conference will be in Spanish. To have this presented in English in your senior center call (718) 239-4358. From more information, call Larcenia Walton at (718) 590-6248. Register at www.gerolatino.org/contact.htm.

Free Workshops on Marketing Your Business
Learn how to promote your small business and gain more customers by attending the free “Marketing for Smarties Challenge, 14 Steps to Sustained Growth” workshops, held by the NYC Small Business Development Center. Workshops will be held Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., March 25 and April 8, at CUNY on the Concourse, 2501 Grand Concourse, 3rd floor. To register, call (718) 960-8806 or visit clarence.stanley@lehman.cuny.edu.

Help With College Applications
Mosholu Montefiore Community Center’s FREE College Bound Program, located at 3512 Dekalb Ave., is offering assistance to high school students who need help with the entire college application process. Students will receive professional, individual counseling and supportive services. For more information or to set up an appointment, call (718) 652- 0282.

MetroCard Vans Coming
MTA MetroCard buses and vans will make the following stops: On March 26: at Van Cortlandt Village, 3880 Sedgwick Ave. from 9:30 to11 a.m.; at Fordham Road and the Grand Concourse from noon to 2 p.m.; and at Fordham Plaza (Fordham Road at Third and Webster avenues) from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Seniors and the disabled can apply for the Reduced Fare MetroCard on the van. All qualified applicants will receive their cards in the mail. You can also purchase or add value to your MetroCard. For more information, call (212) METROCARD or visit www.mta.info.

Become a Better Parent
Continuing and Professional Studies at Bronx Community College, located at 2155 University Ave., at West 181st Street, is offering parenting courses that can help you become a more effective parent and decrease parenting stress. Courses will be offered Mondays from 7 to 10 p.m., March 15 through June 14. For more information, call (718) 289-5170 or visit www.bcc.cuny.edu/cps.

Youth Leadership Club
The 4-H Club youth organization, whose goal is to develop citizenship and leadership skills for ages 9 to 19, will hold meetings the first Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m., through June 7 at the Riverdale-Yonkers Society of Ethical Culture’s Meeting House, 4450 Fieldston Rd. For more information, call (718) 548-4445.

Alcohol & Drug Use Council
The New York City Federation for Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Alcoholism Services invites consumers to attend meetings to help shape the future of substance abuse services. MetroCards will be available to consumer program participants. Meetings are held at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center Conference Room 4, 234 E. 149th St. (between Park and Morris avenues) on March 17 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Family Resource Day
The New York City Child Care Resource & Referral Consortium invites all families to come out to a free Family Resource Day in the Bronx on April 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bronx Library Center, Pre-Function Lobby, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. Parents can obtain information on summer camps and programs, childcare, enrichment programs and other community resources. For more information, call (888) 469-5999.

Give Art to the Park
The Mosholu Preservation Corporation is looking to bring an assortment of art to Bronx parks. Local artists who would like to donate art pieces for display in a park should contact Christian Cato at (718) 324-4461 or e-mail intern2@mpcbronx.org. If an art piece is chosen, the artist will be recognized by their name next to their art.

Kindergarten Registration
PS/MS 20, located at 3050 Webster Avenue, is accepting Kindergarten registration applications for the 2010-2011 school year. Children must be five years old on or before Dec. 31, 2010. Documents required: birth certificate; record of immunizations; two forms of proof of residence. For more information, call Rosemarie Ryan (718) 515-9370, ext. 1153.

Volunteers Needed at MS 80
MS 80 is calling on parents/guardians to volunteer as little as one hour per week. The school needs student mentors, math/reading tutors, cafeteria aides and part-time sports coaches. For more information, contact Mrs. Alejandro, Parent Coordinator, at (718) 405-6300, ext. 1131.

After-School Youth Program
Youngsters ages 11 to 16 are invited to participate in the newly re-opened free after-school program at The COVE, located in the basement of 3418 Gates Pl. The program will have recreation, dance/talent shows, trips, homework help, and it will teach participants how to create film and edit their own videos. The program runs with open enrollment through May and takes place on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. and on Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. For more information or to enroll, call Doug Knepper at (347) 374-7928.

Free Classes at State University
The North Bronx Career Center of The State University of New York, located at 2901 White Plains Rd., offers free basic to advanced daytime and evening classes, including computer courses, college prep courses, and more. Some restrictions may apply. For more information and to register, please call (718) 547-1001.

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.

Paid Lifeguard Training Program
The Department of Parks and Recreation will be recruiting and training summer lifeguards for the city’s 54 outdoor pools and 14 miles of beaches. The paid training program consists of 40 hours of instruction in swimming and rescue techniques, First Aid and CPR, and includes a final swim test and written exam. First-year lifeguards will earn at least $13.57/hour, and work 48 hours a week. For more info, call 311 or visit www.nyc.gov/parks.

Quit Smoking Program
The Albert Einstein Cancer Center/Montefiore Medical Center will be hosting an 8-session Quit-Smoking program created by a licensed Health Psychologist. Groups are now forming at Montefiore’s North Division at 600 E. 233rd St. (between Bronx Boulevard and Carpenter Avenue). For more information or to register, call (718) 430-2697 or email besmartquitsmoking@gmail.com.

Job Fair
Promoting Specialized Care and Health (PSCH) is hosting a job fair with on-the-spot job interviews every Wednesday from 9 to 11 a.m. Those interested working in health and human services who have relevant requirements should attend one of the fairs, which are held at 30-50 Whitestone Expressway, Flushing, NY. For more information, call (718) 559-0576. Resumes can be e-mailed to Recruiter2@psch.org or faxed to (718) 358-6790.

Free ESL and GED Classes
MS 80 at 149 E. Mosholu Pkwy. N. offers free ESL and GED classes. Applicants must be 21 years or older. Registration takes place every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. starting Nov. 7. For more information, call Mrs. Alejandro, Parent Coordinator, at (718) 405-6300, ext. 1131.

Children’s Baseball Sign-Up at MMCC
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center at 3450 DeKalb Ave. is accepting baseball registration for ages 5 to 15 in divisions by age, and girls softball for ages 9 to 15. To register, stop by the Center with your child’s birth certificate weekdays, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., or Saturdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information or to volunteer as a coach, call Chris Pinto (718) 882-4000, or visit www.mmcc.org.

Free Classes for Immigrants at NAWC
The Bronx YMCA New Americans Welcome Center (NAWC) is a “safe haven” committed to serving the immigrant population to achieve literacy, cultural competence, and self-sufficiency. It is currently offering four free classes: English as a Second Language (ESL) Beginners; ESL Intermediate; Citizenship Preparation; and Computer Literacy and Job Readiness. Classes will be held at Ellis Preparatory Academy, 99 Terrace View Ave. For more information, contact Irma Salvatierra Bajar at ibajar@ymcanyc.org or call the Bronx YMCA at (917) 673-8688.

Theodore Roosevelt H.S. Reunion
Theodore Roosevelt H.S. is celebrating its 30-year class reunion, and will be honoring the classes of 1978, 1979, 1980, and 1981 on June 19. This event will take place at the Royal Regency Hotel at 165 Tuckahoe Rd., Yonkers, NY. Guests should call the hotel for discounted room rates. Tickets are on sale online at www.showclix.com/event/7922. For more information, call Diana Diffut at (917) 476-3458.

Networking and Career-Building Travel Experience in Turkey
The Atlantic Council of the United States, in partnership with the Istanbul Policy Center at Sabanci University, is seeking participants for a one-month exchange program in mid-2010. They are seeking Turkish and American young professionals, aged 22-30 who have started careers in the fields of public policy, business and journalism. All expenses for the program will be paid. For more information, and to be considered for the program, contact David Kirk at dkirk@acus.org.

Participate in Medical Research Studies
Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University is inviting all interested parties to sign up for ResearchMatch.org, a new online medical research volunteer registry. Once registered, research institutions across the country can contact you to participate in various research studies based on your qualifications.

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.

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.

School Salon Reopened
The School for Professional Beauty Care at Grace Dodge Career and Technical High School, located at 2474 Crotona Ave., has reopened its after-school beauty parlor, The New Image Salon, for the fall semester. The salon, whose services are reasonably priced, is open every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and is staffed by graduating seniors of the school’s cosmetology program. To schedule an appointment, call (718) 584-2700.

PS/MS 20 School Shirts on Sale
PS/MS 20 requires that all students wear the appropriate uniform shirt. If parents wish, they may buy the shirts directly from PS/MS 20. Parents can call Rosa Rosado at (718) 515-9370 ext. 2154, to request an order form. Shirts for Pre-K to 5th graders are $10, and $12 for 6th to 8th graders.

Fall Into Fitness at MMCC
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center at 3450 DeKalb Ave. has begun its fitness schedule. Classes range from step aerobics and zumba classes to belly dancing. For details and/or to register, call (718) 882-4000 ext. 256 or 280.

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.

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.

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.

Workshops: Children With Disabilities
The Jewish Child Care Association at 555 Bergen Ave. will host monthly workshops through June of 2010 for families and professionals requiring services for children with disabilities. For detailed information and to register, call (212) 677-4650 ext. 20 or visit jccany.org.

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.

Donate Backpacks to Homeless Kids
Bronx BP Ruben Diaz, Jr. is encouraging Bronx residents to donate backpacks and school supplies to “Operation Backpack.” “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.

Self-Defense and Boxing at MMCC
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center at 3450 DeKalb Ave. is offering self-defense classes on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays starting at 5:30 p.m. Its boxing program meets on Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. and on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for ages 7 and up. For more information, visit www.mmcc.org or call (718) 882-4000 ext. 0 or ext. 256.

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.

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.

Healthy Women Needed for Two Research Studies
Researchers at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, 1695 Eastchester Road, are looking for healthy women between the ages of 18-40 to test a vaginal gel for 12 weeks that could help prevent the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In addition, Doctors are looking for healthy women to test a vaginal gel for 14 days that could help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). In this research study, doctors want to learn about the cells that protect women from infection when using the gel. Participants will be compensated for time and travel in both studies. For information call Anna at: 718-430-3253.

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. 1131.

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 (718) 733-4260.

Programs for Teens, Toddlers, and Preschoolers
Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., is offering various activities for children and teens. On Mondays at 4 p.m., teens can enjoy playing free Wii video games, and can meet on Wednesdays and 4 p.m. for “Teen Tech Time.” Toddler Storytime for children 1-3 years of age is held on the first Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. For children from 3 ½ – 5 years, Preschool Films is held on the second Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.

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.

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.

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
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.

 

POTS’ Sheehan Honored

By Anelgi Solis

For the past 20 years, Maureen Fergus Sheehan has devoted her career to helping the poor, the hungry and the less fortunate.
Sheehan, development director at the multi-service nonprofit Part of the Solution (POTS) on Webster Avenue (between 197th and 198th streets), was honored at the New York City Council’s annual

Celebration of Irish Heritage and Culture on March 9. She was honored on behalf of her devotion toward meeting the needs of low-income New Yorkers and those in need.

Sheehan, whose grandparents emigrated from County Mayo in Ireland, began working for POTS agency as a Jesuit volunteer in 1990 and has worked her way up to where she is today.

She also served as the director of Development & Communications for New York City’s Food Bank, the coordinator of the Office for the Homeless of Catholic Charities Archdioceses of New York and the director of corporate and foundation relations for Catholic Charities.

She has been an active member of the Board of Directors of the New York City Coalition Against Hunger (NYCCAH) since 1996 and is currently the agency’s secretary.

Other honorees included Council Speaker Christine Quinn, John Murphy of Irish Network NYC, Larry McCarthy of the Gaelic Athletic Association of Greater New York and the late Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy, who was awarded “Irish Man of the Year.” His niece, Caroline Kennedy, accepted on his behalf.

 

Pre-K Applications Due April 9

By Anelgi Solis

The pre-kindergarten admissions process for next fall is under way.

All children applying for pre-kindergarten (pre-K) must be four years old by December 31, 2010. Applications are due Friday, April 9.

Families can pick up the 2010 pre-K Directory at any public school offering a Pre-K program. Directories are also available in the Bronx enrollment offices located at 1 Fordham Plaza on the 7th floor or at 1230 Zerega Ave. It is also available online at the NYC Department of Education (DOE) Web site: schools.nyc.gov.

The directory contains a listing of the public schools and Community Based Organizations (CBO) that offer pre-K programs. It contains the application solely for public school programs. CBO applications can only be obtained at the CBO program site or on the department’s Web site.
Public school applications can be submitted by mail or online. Applying online will allow parents the opportunity to verify their information and receive a confirmation e-mail once the application is submitted.

Applications for CBO programs have to be returned directly to the site or can be submitted online.
Placement in the school of your choice is not guaranteed, the

DOE says. However, preference will be given to children who have a sibling attending the school of choice.
Public school applicants will be notified of their placement in early June.

Families interested in CBO programs are urged to contact the program sites about seat availability because they may continue to accept applications as long as they have openings.
Families without Internet access can go to their local public library to complete the online application.

For more information on the application process, visit schools.nyc.gov.
 

Residents Urged to Answer the Census

By Jeanmarie Evelly

Community leaders and neighborhood organizations are rallying for New York City residents to participate in this year’s census count. The 10-question surveys were mailed out in the middle of March, and the deadline for returning the forms is April 1.

“The actions of one day—the consequences of that—will live with us for the next 10 years,” said New York Secretary of State Lorraine Cortes-Vazquez, who attended a census awareness press conference at the CUNY Graduate School of Journalism on March 19.

The event, organized by the New York Community Media Alliance, was held to urge media outlets in minority neighborhoods—where census participation is generally lower—to spread word about the importance of filling out the forms.

Census data is used to determine the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives, as well as how much federal money is allocated to community services and projects. According to the Census Bureau, $400 billion is doled out locally each year from the federal government. How much each area gets is based on population numbers gauged from the census.

“If you don’t get counted, you essentially don’t exist,” said City Comptroller John C. Liu, who also attended the press conference. “We want to make sure that everyone in New York City, especially in immigrant communities, gets counted.”

During the last census in 2000, 56 percent of Bronx residents responded, and only 55 percent of New York City overall answered their census forms. This is well below the national response rate of 67 percent. This year, Cortes-Vazquez said the city’s goal is to have at least 70 percent of the population participate.

One particular challenge to an accurate census count is getting immigrant communities to mail in their forms. Many immigrant households have undocumented members who, fearful of deportation or of questions about their status, are wary of answering the survey.

Cortes-Vazquez said there’s been a movement in some Hispanic communities to boycott the census—something she called “absurd,” adding that there are absolutely no questions on the forms having to do with citizenship status or income.

The Census Bureau is urging residents to mail their questionnaires by April 1. In May, workers will begin follow-up operations and visit households that have not responded.

Ed. Note: Bronx residents who have questions or need assistance filling out the forms can call one of the following help lines: (718) 216-2639, (347) 284-0226 or (718) 216-2756. Or visit www.nyc.gov/census2010 for more information.
 

Kingsbridge Road Staple Still Going Strong

By Jesse Bernardini

As the Bronx deals with a slow economy and constantly changing demographics, few family owned businesses withstand the test of time.

The Perista Coffee Shop and Restaurant on Kingsbridge Road is a notable exception.

Aris Patilis opened the venerable coffee shop in 1978. His son, Tom Patilis, 36, now operates and manages Perista, but Aris, 62, still works regularly behind the counter. Over the years, the demographics have changed, but Perista cultivated a loyal customer base from day one. 

“We have at least five or six people that have been coming in for breakfast, almost every morning, since ’78,” the younger Patilis said on a recent Tuesday afternoon, as he pointed at the line of people sitting at the counter.

Meanwhile, nearly every storefront on the same block has changed ownership several times.
Perista gives off a real Bronx neighborhood vibe.

There is nothing fancy about the décor. It’s well lit and not gaudy or cheap looking. The walls are covered with pictures of the Bronx and Greece, where the Patilises are originally from. 

The place, which sits just up the road from the Kingsbridge Armory and across from the Bronx VA hospital, is a true melting pot of cultures. Sitting at the counter of one of their booths on any given day you might overhear conversations in Spanish, Greek, Japanese or Russian.

Perista’s menu is simple and relatively cheap. It’s hard to find any items that cost more than $10. The breakfast menu is traditional diner fare — eggs, pancakes, etc. For lunch and dinner there is a seemingly endless list of burgers, sandwiches, salads, and other diner staples from around the world.

As March is Greek History Month, it may be worth a trip to Perista, to try out one of their  Greek dishes. In addition to gyros and souvlaki, they also offer many other Greek dishes such as moussaka (meat and eggplant casserole) and pastitsio (baked pasta with meat).

Breakfast and lunch are their busiest hours, Patilis says. The staff is extremely quick and efficient, rarely having to write down orders while shuffling around the customers, tables and chairs with ease.

Diners are usually known for their convenience and low prices, but Perista also offers quality. Based on customer votes, the Bronx Times honored Perista with the distinction of pouring the best cup of coffee in the Bronx.

“We are very proud to serve the community with quality food and service, and we don’t plan on changing,” Patilis said with a look of extreme satisfaction on his face. The Patilises have plans on opening up new diners in the Bronx, but say they will put in the same effort as they always have at the original location on Kingsbridge Road.

Ed. Note: Perista Coffee Shop and Restaurant is located at 101 W. Kingsbridge Rd. (between University and Webb avenues). It is open from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. every day. Delivery and catering are also available. For more information, call (718) 548-4178 or visit peristanyc.com.

Kudos to Westphal

By None

I was surprised to read that Dart Westphal (article, March 11–24, 2010) had retired so quietly and without fanfare, after all that he has accomplished in this neighborhood. I have lived here for more than 35 years, and I love what Mosholu Preservation Corporation has done to make this such a wonderful place to live. Kudos to Dart for his vision for our little jewel of a neighborhood.

On a sad note, Megan Charlop’s death has left us all bereft. My condolences to her family and friends.

Marian Awai

Megan Charlop — An Appreciation

By Jordan Moss

The Bronx lost a giant last week. Megan Charlop’s shocking, sudden death took from us a mensch without rival.

Meeting Megan Charlop was knowing her. The warmth, the smile, the kibitzing, the energy, the offers of help  — all that came as quick as the first handshake. I remember so clearly the first time I met her when, in 1994, she walked into the Mosholu Preservation Corporation office on East 208th Street, probably to talk to Dart Westphal about progress on the renovation of a building that would become the Lead Safe House. If I never spent time with her again, I would remember her always. Her joyous presence was instantly felt.

Going through the Norwood News archives, it was remarkable that we could only put our hands on a few photos of Charlop. This despite the fact that she helped realize the Lead Safe House on Mosholu Parkway and that, more recently, she played a critical role in making sure kids didn’t get hooked on sweetened milk in school cafeterias. She and her husband, Richie Powers, took in foster kids and hosted overseas families in town for surgery at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore. She helped to start so many organizations we probably missed some in our cover article.

But it makes sense, too. Megan was a powerhouse of an advocate without the ego. She was all about the work, not the recognition, as so many others have said this past week. Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, who just last week was lobbied in Albany by Megan and students from DeWitt Clinton High School to restore state aid to school-based health centers, said he had to nudge her into the group picture with him and his colleagues.

My wife and I were blessed to know her, something so very many people can genuinely say. Megan and I sometimes joked that we were part of an exclusive club of Jews that emigrated from Long Island to the Bronx. She and Richie would sometimes come over for the second night of Passover occasionally with pots of whole wheat matzoh ball soup and other delectable first-night leftovers in tow.  She was the life of the seder.

In addition to Richie, Megan leaves behind four magnificent children, who themselves are doing so much good in the world. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of them. 

We’ll never stop missing Megan. But she wouldn’t be happy with us if that’s all we did.

Megan was all about family, hard work, love and justice. If each of us were to put a little more effort toward each of these things, we might begin to patch the hole in the fabric of community she spent her life stitching together.
She left a bit of her life force with all who knew her. We must use it as she would have.    
 

Bainbridge Businesses Still Picking up the Pieces

By Jesse Bernardini

It’s been more than four months since a 5-alarm fire ripped through a popular Bainbridge Avenue commercial strip on Halloween. 

The lot, on Bainbriudge Avenue near 204th Street, remains a pile of ash and rubble and a boarded-up blight in the middle of a once-thriving commercial strip. But some of the businesses affected are slowly but surely coming back to life – some nearby, others in different zip codes. Others may never make it back.

More than a dozen stores, between East 205th and East 206th streets, were involved in the fire, which investigators have yet to determine the cause of. An even 10 businesses were completely destroyed and many of them were uninsured.

Some like the Bainbridge Fish Market, which reopened four weeks ago under the name 7’s Fish Market, were fortunate enough to find an open storefront nearby.

“So far it’s been a little slow, but we’re getting there,” said Brian Park, an employee at the neighborhood’s only fish market.

The fish market was located at 3095 Bainbridge Ave., but after the fire it moved up the block, to 3123, where Nelson’s Restaurant used to be.

Nelson Fernandez, the owner of Nelson’s Restaurant, which was damaged but not completely destroyed, said he has no immediate plans to reopen his business.

“I found a job at a friend’s restaurant and I just don’t want to deal with the whole process of starting over,” Fernandez said.

The owner of El Diamante, Francisco Diaz, is taking a different approach. He is vehemently trying to find a location to reopen.

“I would like to stay in the Bronx, and in Norwood, but I don’t know,” Diaz said. “We’re shopping around and have looked at places in Manhattan and Brooklyn also. It’s a long, tough process.”

The ZNS Realty Corp. was completely destroyed but managed to find a space to move into directly across the street and kitty corner from their old location, at 279 E. 204th St.

Farther down the block, after Bainbridge morphs into East 204th Street, the L&M European Mini Market can now be found. They opened back up in January, at 371 E. 204th St.

Another one of the businesses that was completely destroyed was the Bainbridge Bakery, which had been a pillar in the community for years. A previous fire underneath the bakery’s floor last April had caused the store to shut down in the first place. The Mirdita family had renovated the space completely and they were on the verge of reopening when the Halloween fire hit.

Sometime later this year the bakery will reopen, they say, but it will be on Williamsbridge Road, near Pelham Parkway. 

Yasmin’s Barbershop had irreparable damages as well and was forced to relocate outside of the Bronx. Where Yasmin’s once stood is a cardboard sign that gives Yasmin’s cell phone number.
For the past two and a half months, Yasmin’s has been operating out of Yonkers at 647 McLean Ave.

“Many of our customers from Bainbridge Avenue are making the trip up here to get their hair cut,” said owner Yasmin Vekteseic, who said he had to reapply for his NY State Beauty Enhancement License.

The Hillside Meat Market suffered little damage during the fire and was lucky enough to save most of its perishable items.

“Things slowed down a little bit after the holidays but that’s nothing new,” said James Cronin who works there. “Right now I’d say we’re doing about the same as we do every year at this time.”

Three weeks after the fire, La Mexicana Grocery reopened in the same location. They suffered only minor damage that was repaired quickly. “Business was very slow in the beginning,” said Kelby Zactek, the son of the grocery’s owner. “We’re just now starting to get back to normal.”

Shahjalal Grocery also suffered little damage and was only closed for a few days after the fire as well.

The Gift and Wireless store was assisted by the Department of Small Business Services (SBS) and were able to restore electrical services within several days of the fire.

“Some of the businesses were completely destroyed, so it can be a traumatic experience for an owner,” said Christina Shapiro, the assistant commissioner of SBS. “As time goes by we expect that some of those owners will reach out to us for assistance.”

Dunkin Donuts, however, wasn’t so lucky. The business owner is currently trying to obtain an Incident Report from the FDNY for insurance purposes, Shapiro said.

Mr. Tambourine Man’ Movie Uses Local Backdrops

By Jesse Bernardini

If you walked up Webster Avenue past the Woodlawn Cemetery on a recent Thursday it may have seemed as if you stepped back in time a half century or so.

Two weeks ago, that stretch of Webster, which stretches north along the Bronx River, was full of Chevys, Fords and Pontiacs from the 1950s and 1960s.

The cemetery was being used as a film set for a new movie called, “Mr. Tambourine Man” starring J.K. Simmons (of “Law and Order,” “Oz” and “Juno” fame) and Julia Ormond (“The Curious Case of Benjamin Button”).

Usually a tranquil area of the Bronx, the cemetery was inundated with teamsters, production assistants, lighting rigs, trucks and filming equipment. 

The famous Bronx cemetery, which is the final resting place for legends such as jazz musician Duke Ellington and author Herman Melville, will be the setting for the funeral of Simmons’ character.

The next day, the film crew headed south, to use the Mt. St. Ursula Academy campus in Bedford Park as their backdrop. They were scheduled to film one exterior and one interior scene, but the heavy rains on Friday forced them to film both scenes indoors.

“It was a little hectic, but it was a lot of fun for the students,” said Father John Vigilanti, the principal of the all-girls Catholic school. “We didn’t know what to expect. The crew was here from 6 a.m. until midnight.”

Originally the crew was supposed to film one scene in the library and then another scene that featured an anti-Vietnam protest outdoors. The protest ended up being filmed in the lobby of the school making things a little crazy for the students and faculty, Vigilanti said.

Vigilanti was so impressed by the entire filming process and his students’ reactions that he invited several members of the crew to come back to Mt. St. Ursula for career day on April 21.
Simmons even took a little time out of his day to pose for a picture with the drama club.

“I think we established a good relationship with the crew,” said Vigilanti. “Hopefully, they recommend our school to other film companies to shoot in.”

“Mr. Tambourine Man” is an adaptation of a case study called “The Last Hippie,” by Oliver Sacks, the author of “Awakening.” It is the true story of a man name Gabriel who suffers a brain tumor and can only communicate to others through the music of Bob Dylan and the Grateful Dead.

The production also filmed scenes in Greenwich Village.
 

Storm Leaves Mess

By Jesse Bernardini

The Bronx is still recovering from a brutal Nor’easter two weekends ago that left 8,400 residents without power and felled dozens of trees in local parks.

By as late as last Wednesday, 700 residents were still in the dark. By late Wednesday evening all power had been restored, according to Con Edison.

A total of 258 emergency calls were made in the Bronx alone throughout the weekend. The final number of trees downed or split in the borough came to 165, according to Philip Abramson of the Parks Department. Additionally 65 limbs came off of trees and there were a reported 24 hanging limbs.

In Van Cortlandt Park, the storm knocked down 24 trees; four fell in St. James Park and one in Williambridge Oval Park.
Several cars parked along Sedgwick Avenue were damaged or destroyed when a pair of giant trees toppled over.

-David Greene contributed to thsi story.

Three Stabbed on Creston

By Alex Kratz

On Monday night, three people were stabbed following an argument outside of an apartment building across from St. James Park.

Police said “a verbal dispute” broke out between two groups of people in front 2588 Creston Ave. at around 5:45 p.m. Monday evening. Three people, who police identified as two black men and one black woman, were stabbed during the confrontation. All three were taken to St. Barnabas Hospital and are expected to live. Two black men were seen fleeing from the scene, police said.

Man Killed Defending Teen

By David Greene

Police are currently looking for the individuals who plunged a knife into the chest of a young man who came to the aid of a neighborhood teen.

According to police, the deadly confrontation took place just before 10:30 p.m., on Friday, March 19, at East 197th Street near Webster Avenue, just blocks away from the 52nd Precinct.

Police said the victim, Orlando Salgado, 26, had come to the aid of a local teen and neighbor, who was being chased by a group of teenagers and young men when one assailant plunged a knife into Salgado’s chest.

Salgado, a construction worker and father of two children, was headed to a grocery store at the time of the attack. He was rushed to St. Barnabas Hospital where he died a short time later.
Police reported the assailant told his victim, “For saving his life (the teen), we’re going to take yours.” Bronx homicide detectives continue to investigate. It was the second murder in the 52nd Precinct this year.

Public and Community Meetings

By Norwood News

The Bedford Mosholu Community Association will meet on Wednesday, April 7, at 8 p.m. at 400 E. Mosholu Pkwy. So. Apt.#B1 (Lobby Floor). All are welcome.

The 52nd Precinct Community Council will meet on Thursday, March 25 at 7 p.m. at Fordham Methodist Church, 3543 Marion Ave. For more information, call (718) 220-5824.

Community Board 7 will hold a Senior Services Committee Meeting on Thursday, March 25 at 6 p.m. Following it, Parks & Recreation Committee will meet from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The meetings will be held at the Community Board Office, located at 229A E. 204th St.

The next Community Board 7 general meeting will be on Tuesday, April 20 at 6:30 p.m. at Tracey Towers. For more information, visit bronxcb7.info/calendar or call (718) 933-5650.

Rivera Fights for Immigrants in DC

By Norwood News

Last Sunday, Assemblyman Jose Rivera accompanied leaders from the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition (NWBCCC) to Washington, D.C.

There, they joined thousands of people from around the country to demand fair and humane immigration reform. The United States currently has millions of undocumented immigrants living within its borders.

Before leaving, Rivera said, “I am joining my constituents in the fight to demand that all immigrants are respected! It’s important that we march together and stand up for what’s right. We want immigration reform right now! And we’re also marching because we want to be counted in the Census.”

This is a very crucial time for undocumented immigrants. It is a census year and lawmakers and community leaders have been urging everybody to fill out the anonymous questionnaire. But there has been resistance from immigrant communities to fill out the census because of

At ‘Virtual’ Meeting, Espada Pushes East River Tolls

By James Fergusson

During a “virtual” town hall meeting in Albany on March 21, State Senator Pedro Espada Jr. announced that he now favors tolls on four East River bridges.

Charging motorists $2 per crossing would generate $525 million each year, Espada said, and “directly pay for the free students MetroCards” that the MTA is threatening to abolish.

His decision to support the tolls is something of an about face.  Last year, he helped crush a similar proposal.  At the time, he said tolls over the East River and Harlem River (13 bridges were included in the initial plan) would hurt small businesses and the middle class.   

Espada’s constituents and other interested parties were able to watch the town hall meeting online or on the cable channel BRONXNET. Or they could listen in by phone by calling a toll-free number. Questions were submitted beforehand as well as during the event. Most pertained to the economy and the budget. Aside from tolling bridges, Espada said he supports raising additional revenue by charging non-profits property tax.

On the Bronx News Network’s blog, some readers posted comments criticizing the format of the event. One wrote: “When will Espada do a Town Hall in the district so he can really hear from his constituents? Doing this in Albany is just a way of avoiding the hard questions people will have for him.”

Indeed, if tough questions were posed, they weren’t taken up by the moderator. Espada wasn’t asked about Attorney General Andrew Cuomo’s investigation into his healthcare network, nor did he address concerns that his recent housing bill may actually benefit landlords, not tenants. 

Espada himself called the meeting a success.  “I think it’s been great,” he said,  wrapping things up. “I know the citizens of the Bronx appreciate it.” He said it was the first ever Bronx town hall meeting broadcast live from the capital, and that he’d like to do more in the future. 

Bronx Pols Hail Signing of Landmark Health Care Reform

By Alex Kratz

On Tuesday morning, Congressman Jose E. Serrano and Eliot Engel, who represent the majority of the Bronx, attended President Obama’s signing of what Democrats are calling “historic” health care reform.

Democrats pushed through the legislation this week despite unanimous opposition from Republicans.

Serrano and Engel both said the reforms would undoubtedly benefit their constituents in the Bronx.

“What the legislation will do is make health care affordable for the middle class,” Engel said in a statement. “It will mean no longer will a hard working class American get sick and be unable to seek treatment. It will mean seniors will have more security when it comes to health care choices. It means that people who have pre-existing conditions will not be denied treatment which may save their life. It means that young Americans can remain on their parents’ plan until they are 26 years old, so they can build their own careers without worrying about health coverage.”

Serrano said “witnessing the signing of this legislation will go down as one of the highlights of of my legislative careers. Future generations will look back on this moment as a turning point in American history not unlike the passage of Social Security and Medicare.”

Many of the reforms contained in the legislation won’t go into effect for a few years, but it is expected to extend coverage to an estimated 32 million uninsured Americans.

 

New Armory Task Force, a Team of ‘Heavy Hitters’

By Alex Kratz

On Monday, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. and City Councilman Fernando Cabrera announced a big-name lineup to serve on a task force that they hope will generate a new plan to put the massive and long-vacant Kingsbridge Armory to use for the community.

With this task force, which the borough president first mentioned at his State of the Borough speech earlier this month, Diaz and Cabrera are trying to reignite the push to redevelop the Armory, which has been vacant since 1994.

In December, the City Council (with Diaz’s strong support) shot down a proposal to turn the Armory into a retail shopping mall. Less than a month ago, Bloomberg told the Daily News that he doubted the Armory would be developed in his lifetime.

“There’s this notion that the Armory will stay vacant for the next decade,” Diaz said. “But there’s no reason why we can’t work together [with the mayor] and put out another RFP [Request for Proposals].”

The 10-member task force, which Diaz called a team of “heavy hitters,” is made up of people with wildly diverse backgrounds, from a community board member to a former Republican state official.

“I wanted a committee with folks that are respected citywide and statewide,” Diaz said in a recent interview.
At first glance: mission accomplished.

Leading off the list is Majora Carter, the Sustainable South Bronx founder and MacArthur Genius Award winner who has become synonymous with “green” development and urban environmental justice.

Kathryn Wylde, the president and CEO of the influential nonprofit Partnership for New York City, is also on board. Wylde serves on several boards and advisory groups, including the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC), which manages the Armory and would be in charge of crafting a new RFP.

Another big name is Dr. Steven Safyer, the president and CEO of Montefiore Medical Center, which Diaz pointed out, is the largest employer in the entire borough with some 16,000 employees.

Desiree Pilgrim-Hunter, who became the face of the Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Alliance’s (KARA) push for living wage jobs at the Armory, is also on the task force, along with union leaders Jack Kittle and Steven McInnis, real estate developer Jack Rosen, new Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation President Marlene Cintron, and Community Board 7 Chair Paul Foster.

There’s also, perhaps most surprisingly, Ned Regan, a Republican former state comptroller. Diaz, who campaigned hard for fellow Democrat Bill Thompson in his failed bid last fall to unseat Mayor Bloomberg, said Regan’s inclusion is an example of his desire not “to politicize” the task force.

Diaz said he reached out to the head of the EDC, Seth Pinsky, and asked him to serve on the task force, but Pinsky declined.
Still, Diaz insisted the EDC and mayor’s office were not ignoring him and had pledged to work with the task force in creating new ideas for the Armory.

While Diaz appears to be spearheading the Armory push, he has enlisted Cabrera as a partner in the effort. The Armory is in Cabrera’s 14th Council District. This past winter, before he had even been sworn into office, the councilman-elect played a key role in derailing the city’s Armory shopping mall plan.

“I eagerly look forward to working closely with this distinguished panel to find a viable, successful solution to the development of the Kingsbridge Armory,” Cabrera said, in a statement. “The Armory represents a great opportunity for the people of my district who not only want to see the Armory developed, but need it to be. It’s time for us to look at this from every angle, and I see the Armory Task Force as the ideal body to gather the resources necessary to carry this out.”

Diaz said he’ll gather the task force at Borough Hall in the near future and get everyone up to speed. From there he wants to tour the building and start setting up regular meetings and generating ideas. 

While Diaz said he wouldn’t rule out any possible usage, he did say in his statement that “a retail mall was not the best use for this space, given the traffic issues and its proximity to the Fordham Road shopping district,” which, he pointed out, is the third biggest commercial corridor in the city.

“Everyone says we lost jobs by killing the Armory project, but what about the jobs that we would have lost from Fordham Road,” Diaz said.

As for other possibilities, in his statement, Diaz mentioned “manufacturing, green development, recreation, and other innovative uses.”

Diaz said he hoped the task force would come up with some recommendations for a revamped Armory in the next six months or so.
 

Foodtown Plans Big Return

By Alex Kratz

Earlier this month, Dan Katz, part owner of the Foodtown supermarket in Norwood that burned down in a horrific fire in late December, gushed to members of Community Board 7 about how much bigger and better the replacement store will be once it’s completed.

“I’m telling you, you’re going to love it,” Katz said after enumerating the store’s new features. “This is a monumental project.”

With funding help from a new city initiative, the Katz family is building a brand new supermarket that will be 35 percent bigger and increase the number of employees from 40 to 65.

It will offer more produce options, an increase in variety and organic products, wider aisles, three more checkout lanes, and a brand new seafood section, Katz said.

Sounds like a good deal for a community that is still struggling to regain its footing after two recent fires — one on Bainbridge Avenue, the other on East 204th Street, where Foodtown was located — wiped out 13 businesses (see story, page 5) and left residents without a local supermarket.

But some longtime residents say the Katz family caused the neighborhood’s supermarket void in the first place by chasing away competitors and is now soaking up valuable taxpayer funding as a result.

In its defense, the Katz family says it’s simply running a business in a tough industry with razor-thin profit margins and would be foolish not to take advantage of programs like the city’s FRESH initiative.

The city created the FRESH (Food Retail Expansion to Support Health) program last summer to “make it more advantageous to open new stores and upgrade existing stores so that New Yorkers in underserved neighborhoods can put healthy food on the table for their families,” Mayor Michael Bloomberg said in statement announcing the program.

Foodtown is one of the first two supermarkets to reap the program’s benefits, which, over the course of several years, will amount to about $3 million in real estate and other tax breaks, which were approved last month by the city’s Industrial Development Agency (IDA). Foodtown will invest $3.7 million of its own money to build the new 11,000-square-foot store. 

After the Dec. 21 fire, Dan Katz said their landlord agreed to allow them to expand to take over the space occupied by the burned-out commercial building’s two other occupants — a dentist’s office and a diner. (The owner of the diner was charged with arson in connection with the fire. He has pleaded “not guilty” and is awaiting trial.)

The Katzes were eligible to receive the tax breaks because all of Community Board 7, which includes Norwood, Bedford Park, North Fordham and University Heights, was deemed “underserved” in terms of access to fresh foods and vegetables.

Fernando Tirado, the district manager of Community Board 7, wouldn’t comment about the tax breaks, but said, “I know that it’s badly needed by the community because I continue to receive complaints and inquiries, especially from seniors, about their problems accessing supermarkets and fresh food.”  

Elda Bertagna, who moved into the neighborhood near East 204th Street in 1953, is incensed about the tax breaks. “Are you kidding me? [The Katzes] have to be billionaires by now,” she said.

She remembers a time when there were half a dozen grocery stores in the area. There’s a reason why Foodtown was the only one standing until it burned down, she said.

“[The Katzes] were instrumental in getting us to this point [of being without a supermarket],” said Laura Filacchione, who said there were at least five or six grocery stores in the area when she moved here 40 years ago.

Over the years, the Katzes have bought up the leases or property of at least three supermarkets nearby. The spaces were converted into two discount stores and what is now a CVS. In 1997, the Katzes bought a Bedford Park C-Town supermarket and then closed it down. Two years later, after intense community protests, they reopened it as a Foodtown. (They have since sold that store and it’s now a C-Town again.)

At the community board meeting, Katz was reluctant to discuss the family’s reputation for icing out the competition, but offered no apologies and said they were simply doing their best to survive in a cutthroat industry.

He added that the company has done its best to serve the community and be a good neighbor. After the fire, they offered jobs to all of Foodtown’s 40 displaced employees and has tried to meet the neighborhood’s needs by offering online shopping and delivery services.

In the end, regardless of how it gets built, Filacchione said, “We absolutely need our supermarket.”

Death of Health Advocate Megan Charlop Felt Bronxwide

By Jordan Moss

Megan Charlop, a longtime Norwood resident and mother of four whose life’s work was improving the health and well-being of Bronxites young and old, died on March 17 as she biked to PS 55 along Crotona Avenue. She swerved to avoid an opening car door when a city bus struck her, killing her instantly. Charlop was 57.

For the last 26 years, Charlop worked for Montefiore Medical Center where she was instrumental in creating a Safe House for Lead Poisoning Prevention and for the last seven years as director of the Division of Community Health at Montefiore’s School Health Program, which has medical clinics in 16 Bronx schools. In 1999, Charlop was one of 10 to receive the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Community Health and Leadership Program award for her lead poisoning prevention work at Montefiore. She helped found the south Bronx environmental group Greening for Breathing with the award money.

Philip Ozuah, MD, head of the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, called her a “champion for the health and social well-being of the families of the Bronx,” and that her “work for Montefiore and the people of the Bronx literally touched thousands of her co-workers and residents of the borough."  

Came to Bronx in 1970s

But Charlop’s work in the Bronx goes back to the mid-1970s, a time when the borough’s infrastructure was disintegrating from arson and neglect.  She helped to found People’s Development Corporation, a grassroots revitalization group. She later did housing work with Fordham Bedford Housing Corporation before joining Montefiore.  She also helped found the New York City Coalition to End Lead Poisoning.

Charlop was born in Brooklyn and raised in Great Neck, Long Island along with her two brothers, David and Gordon.

News of Charlop’s death rippled briskly through the Bronx on Wednesday as people received calls and e-mails from friends and co-workers. The following day, about 200 of her colleagues from Montefiore and all over the Bronx gathered at her office and made their way with flower seed packets to Williamsbridge Oval Park. Standing in a circle, her co-workers and collaborators took turns paying tribute and testifying to Charlop’s impact on them and the community. There didn’t seem to be any clear line between friend and co-worker. Each seemed to be both.

One woman said Charlop, an avid bicyclist, “taught my 6-year-old how to ride a bike.”

Paul Meissner, a Montefiore colleague, said he wanted to be like Megan. She was a role model as a parent, a health advocate and a human being. “Megan was my hero,” he said, a sentiment echoed by several other speakers.

Many marveled how she was able to balance family, work, friends, a spiritual life and a whole lot of fun.

“Life was not either/or for her,” said S. Kenneth Schonberg, MD, a professor of pediatrics and a consultant to the School Health Program. “She was completely an and person.”
The task now, Meissner said, was to “work hard to fill those shoes and keep doing what she’s been doing all these years.”

An ‘Indomitable Spirit’

David Appel, MD, director of the School Health Program, said Charlop was an “indomitable spirit” who “would come in with her smile and made everyone believe in the optimism of mankind.”

The following morning, at the funeral service in Great Neck, hundreds of people from all facets of Charlop’s life filled every available space in the chapel, the hallway, and even the sidewalk outside, where the service was broadcast on speakers that many found difficult to hear.  Everyone stayed until the very end anyway.

Rabbi Dov Katz of Conservative Synagogue Adath Israel of Riverdale, where Charlop would walk three miles to for Saturday morning services, presided. Charlop was preparing for her adult bat mitzvah in June.

Charlop’s husband, Richie Powers, her four adult children (Sarah, Zach, Rachel and Aaron Charlop-Powers) and her two brothers each paid tribute to Charlop, moving mourners alternately to tears and laughter.  Charlop is also survived by her father, Bernard.

Her youngest, Aaron, recalled how terrified he was to go to school without his mom when he was little and he would clutch onto her leg. To build his confidence, Charlop — who, with her Norwood friends, founded a cooperative nursery school in the neighborhood  — made him a special super-hero cape.

Working for Kids’ Health

That loving creativity manifested itself at work as well. Appel called Charlop a “true genius in community health and advocacy.” 

She understood, he said, before it was popular that, to combat childhood obesity, adults had to take responsibility for the foods kids ate and that the place to start was with the sweetened milk served at schools. She began with two schools and taught the students to “try it and like it by doing blind taste tests.” She organized a local nutrition coalition that expanded the program to the district, region and, along with a citywide coalition, to the city as a whole. “Over one million New York City children are affected by Megan’s work …,” Appel said, adding that it was “one example of hundreds showing how Megan Charlop moved us forward in our work.”

She had an uncanny capacity to look at people and see their humanity,” said her oldest daughter, Sarah, in her eulogy. “More than anyone I’ve known, she knew how to connect with the most important part of other people — the part that cares.” Her own caring was legendary. She opened her home to foster children and to Caribbean and African families brought to the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore for special surgeries not available in their own countries.

Her oldest son, Zachary, said that his mother “wanted to give something to everyone who had something lacking” and that she believed that “with enough love you can transform any situation, and the rest is commentary.”

In describing his wife, Richie Powers used an expression from Charlop’s grandmother: “Sweetness was baked into her bones.”

Speaking to perhaps everyone who wondered how they would keep on moving forward with their life and work without Charlop there to collaborate with and gleefully egg them on, her younger daughter, Rachel, told them:

“While we didn’t get everything we wanted from my mom, she gave us everything we need, and the rest is up to us.”

-Alex Kratz contributed to this article.

Ed. Note: Memories and photos of Megan Charlop can be sent to remembermegcharlop@gmail.com, an e-mail address set up by the family. Readers can also continue to share memories on posts about Charlop at www.bronxnewsnetwork.org (just search for Megan Charlop) in the comments section. We will make sure the family receives all comments.  The family also asks that in lieu of condolence packages, donations be made to any charity, or those that Charlop was involved in: Transportation Alternatives (www.transalt.org); Partners in Health (www.pih.org) or the Eugenia Ford Powers Memorial Fund/Family Scholar House (www.familyscholarhouse.org).

Out & About

By Judy Noy

Onstage

The Bronx Library Center, at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, hosts the Sonido Costeno Band, March 13 at 2:30 p.m.; and Indian Diva Falu, presented by the Carnegie Hall Neighborhood Concert Series, March 20 at 2:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.

Lehman College, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W, presents the following free programs: The Lehman Chamber Players will perform classical music in the Recital Hall, Music Building, 3rd floor, March 14 at 2 p.m.; The Lehman Percussion Ensemble and the Royal Irish Academy of Music in Dublin will perform in the Studio Theatre on March 18 at noon; and musicians will perform chamber music, March 21 at 2 p.m. in the Recital Hall, Music Building, 3rd floor. For more information, call (718) 960-8247.

The Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance (BAAD), located at 841 Baretto St., presents its annual festival featuring women artists: Antonia Pantoja: Presente!, a screening, on March 11 at 8 p.m. (free); Sharon Bridgforth, reading from her poetry, March 12 at 8 p.m. ($10); Documentary featuring dance history of Trinidad and Tobago, March 13 at 8 p.m. (free); Freda Rosen Live, brunch celebrating this Bronx activist who was pivotal in the creation and development of BAAD, March 14 at 1 p.m. ($7 suggested donation); Some Very Good Years, a dance program, March 19 at 8 p.m. and March 21 at 5 p.m. ($15); and Uplifted!: BAADass Woman 2010 Dance Concert, featuring various artists, March 20 at 8 p.m. ($20). BAAD also offers classes in yoga, drumming, and dance. For more information, to reserve, or for a class schedule, call (718) 842-5223.

Events

Lehman College, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd W., presents the following free lectures: “Reading Feminist, Reading Black: The Black Female Detective,” March 17 at 12:30 p.m. in Carman Hall, room 221 (for more information, call (718) 960-1160); and “Religious Freedom,” March 25 at 11 a.m. in the Lovinger Theatre (for more information, call (718) 960-8766).

The New York Botanical Garden is currently hosting Chocolate and Vanilla Adventures, an educational children’s program which takes place in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden where children learn the plant origins of these two sweet treats, as well as participating in hands-on activities and tastings. This program complements the Orchid Show: Cuba in Flower. The flower show features plants of Old Havana and the Cuban countryside, and on weekends during the exhibition, there will be home gardening demonstrations and Q&A with experts. Both programs run through April 11. For more information and schedules, call (718) 817-8700 or visit www.nybg.org.

The Bronx River Art Center, together with the NYC Department of Transportation, present an abstract wooden art sculpture, Aurora, 14 feet tall, 11 feet wide and 11 feet deep, to be on view for 11 months until June at the center of West Farms Square Plaza located at the base of the West Farms Square/East Tremont Avenue subway station on the corner of East Tremont Avenue and Boston Road, one block away from BRAC which is located at 1087 E. Tremont Ave. For more information, visit www.nyc.gov/urbanart.

Save the date:?The Friends of Van Cortlandt Park presents its Hike-a-Thon on Saturday, May 1, to raise funds for restoration of the park’s hiking trails. Registration deadline is April 7. For more information, call (718)?601-1460 or visit www.vancortlandt.org.

Exhibits

Bronx Community College, located at 2155 University Ave. (West 181st Street), presents Women: At the Table, Off the Wall, Every Day, through April 21 at the Hall of Fame Gallery in Bliss Hall. An artist reception will be held March 13 from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call (718) 289-5208.

The Museum of Bronx History, located at 3266 Bainbridge Ave. (at 208th Street), presents The Bronx: Then and Now, a comparison of the Bronx of today with that of the 19th century, via prints and photographs; and Edgar Allan Poe – A Bicentennial Celebration,.to learn about Poe, his life and his time spent in the Bronx; both through April 15. For more information, call the Bronx County Historical Society at (718) 881-8900.

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., in partnership with The Bronx Tourism Council, presents Robert Seyffert’s Water Paintings, through the end of March 2010, free, at the BP’s Art Gallery, Bronx County Building, 851 Grand Concourse. For more information, call (718) 590-3989.

The Lehman College Art Gallery, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. E., presents two free exhibits: State of the Dao: Chinese Contemporary Art – Dao is an ancient Chinese concept meaning ‘way,” “path,” or “natural working of the universe”; and Nature, Once Removed: Flora and Fauna in Contemporary Drawing, featuring work of 20 artists of animals, plants, and landscapes. Both exhibits run through May 4, and a reception will be held on March 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. For more information and a schedule, call (718) 960-8731.

The Bronx Council on the Arts, located at the Longwood Art Gallery at Hostos Community College, 450 Grand Concourse (at 149th Street), hosts three exhibitions through May 7: In the City: Memory, Places and Spaces, which includes works on migration and urban planning; Transmit-Transit: Hatuey Ramos-Fermin @ The Project Room, featuring traveling in the city and ethnic diversity; and Impractical Hats: Indie Crafts Reinvent Everyday Gear, featuring construction of hats in unorthodox ways. For more information, call (718) 931-9500.
Library Events

The Bronx Library Center, at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, presents the following programs for preschoolers and school-aged children: Toddler Story Time, March 17 and 24 at 11 a.m.; Preschool Story Time, March 11, 18 and 25 at 11 a.m.; Family Time, March 13 at 11 a.m.; Be Tobacco Free, March 13 at 2 p.m.; films, March 17 and 24 at 4 p.m.; and Straight Caterpillar Making, March 25 at 4 p.m. For teens and young adults, there is Crafternoons, March 12 at 3:30 p.m.; and conVERSEing, March 15 and 22 at 3:30 p.m. All ages can enjoy the movie, “Capturing the Friedmans,” March 17 at 2 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.

The Mosholu Library, at 285 E. 205th St., hosts Preschool Films, March 11 at 10:30 a.m. for children. Adults can attend Knitting Circle, March 11, 18 and 25 at 3 p.m. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.

The Jerome Park Library, at 118 Eames Place, presents Making Music, March 12 at 11 a.m.; and Toddler Story Time, March 19 at 11 a.m.; both for children. For teens and young adults, there is Crafternoons, March 11 and 18 at 4 p.m. For more information, call (718) 549-5200.

Public Service Announcement

Daylight Savings Time begins on Sunday, March 14 at 2 a.m. Turn clocks ahead one hour.
                                            
NOTE: Items for consideration may be mailed to our office or sent to norwoodnews@norwoodnews.org, and should be received by March 15 for the next publication date of March 25.

MTA Service Cuts Slammed at Bronx Hearing

By Jeanmarie Evelly

A flood of outraged residents and elected officials lined up to voice their concerns to MTA board members last night at a public hearing at the Paradise Theater on the Grand Concourse. The transit agency has proposed drastic service cuts and fare changes to cover its nearly $400 million budget shortfall.

Speakers at the hearing conveyed their anger as well as a sense of déjà vu, having made the same pleas  to stop service cuts last year, when the MTA faced a similar deficit.

Some of the most troubling changes stemmed from the proposed elimination of student MetroCards—which provide three free rides on school days—as well as reduced Access-a-Ride service for the disabled and elderly and the discontinuation of the Bx18 bus, which runs between Undercliff Avenue and the Grand Concourse.

Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. was the first to take the podium, telling MTA chairman Jay Walder and other board members that they were underestimating the role mass transit plays in the lives of Bronx residents, the majority of whom don’t have access to a car.

“I’m glad you’re here, Mr. Chairman, but maybe one day you and I could take a walk around the Bronx,” Diaz said. “People need these buses.”

His testimony was followed by similar speeches from Council Members James Vacca and Oliver Koppell, Assembly members Jeffrey Dinowitz and Vanesssa Gibson, and representatives from the offices of several other Bronx officials.

“You’re picking on the elderly, the disabled and the students,” said Dinowitz, adding that the MTA should look inward first as it looks to make cuts. “I’m sure you’ve got a lot of people in the MTA who make more than the governor.”

A seemingly endless line of residents approached the microphone with stories of transit woes: the high school student who gets up at 5 a.m. to take two buses to get to school on time; the disabled woman who relies on Access-a-Ride to get to her doctor appointments in Brooklyn.

Verna Montgomery, who runs a nonprofit sports club for kids in Morris Heights, said she was worried the loss of free rides to school would encourage students to skip class more often.

“Almost all of my students are bused out of the district for school,” she said. “Where are people going to get this money from?”

If the cuts go through, full-fare student MetroCards would be discontinued starting this September and replaced with half-fare cards—which would then be phased out in September 2011.

Students from Sistas and Brothas United, a youth group associated with the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition, protested outside the public hearing.

“We’re ready to go to war for our MetroCards,” one student said.

In addition to the end of the Bx18 bus, the MTA wants to discontinue off-peak and Saturday services on the Bx20, cut off weekend service on the Bx33 and Bx34, and discontinue summer service to Baretto Point Park Pool.

Several speakers offered solutions for how the MTA could close their budget gap without cutting service. Some said MTA employees should give up their bonuses and transit passes while others called on city and state government to step up their funding efforts.

Either way, the crowd was unanimous in their contempt for the changes. 

“I think we have the greatest transportation system in the world,” one woman said. “So why mess with it?”

Bronx 6th Grader on Fast Track to the Top

By Norwood News

At 11 years old, Mariela Cipriano, a sixth grader at PS 246 in Kingsbridge, has already established herself as one of the premier track stars in all of New York City.

A member of the PS 246 Lightning running team, Mariela was chosen from thousands of candidates as the female Runner of the Year by the New York Road Runners Youth Program.

Mariela first started running four years ago when she was inspired by her older sister, Elizabeth, to join the Lightning’s team. Since then, she has been the most passionate and committed member of the team, never missing a practice or a meet and even making every optional 6 a.m. practice, says her coach Emily Sanderson.

Her dedication has led to her being named the captain of her team for the past two years. She leads by example, Sanderson says, encouraging her teammates to give their all.

At her age, boys and girls compete together in track events. Mariela nearly always finishes atop of the girls and regularly wins or comes close to winning the overall races, whether it’s distance or sprints.

Mariela says her favorite race to run is the relay race where she recently anchored the Lightning’s relay team at the 2010 Millrose Games.

The track is not the only place where Mariela excels; she is also a stellar soccer player and an honors student. She says her goals for the future are to “break a six-minute mile and to continue to run through high school and college.”

She appears on track to accomplish both of these goals and having a lot of fun along the way.

Local Pols, Union Members Rally for Good Jobs

By James Fergusson

Alba Vazquez immigrated to America in 1977 from her native Uruguay, where a military dictatorship had seized power a few years prior. She settled in the Bronx with the hopes of building a safer, more prosperous life for herself and her young family.

It wasn’t easy. Vazquez and her husband went their separate ways and she was left raising four children on her own. To make ends meet, she juggled three low-paying jobs. “It was awful, 18-hour days, no weekends, no vacation,” she said.

Ten years ago, however, Vazquez’s fortunes changed for the better when she landed a cleaning job at Madison Square Garden and became a member of 32BJ Service Employees International Union (SEIU). With a decent wage and benefits, she was able to provide for her loved ones.

“When I started to work at the Garden our lives changed completely,” said Vazquez, a soft spoken 53-year-old who lives on Hull Avenue near 204th Street.

Vasquez was speaking at a town hall meeting on Monday night at the Amalgamated Houses, a housing complex just south of Van Cortlandt Park. About 70 32BJ members had gathered to show their support for a City Council bill which would guarantee decent wages and benefits to cleaners, security guards, and other building service workers at new commercial and residential developments financed by city tax-dollars, and at buildings the city leases from others.

“We should not use our tax dollars to create poverty level jobs,” said Kyle Bragg, vice president of 32BJ, which represents 70,000 workers in the city, 13,000 of whom live in the Bronx. 

Council members Fernando Cabrera, Maria del Carmen Arroyo, and Oliver Koppell were also present at the meeting. They are co-sponsors of the bill — Intro 18-2010 — introduced last month by their colleague, Melissa Mark-Viverito. 

Cabrera, who once worked as a school counselor, said he saw the effect low-paying jobs had on children, whose parents were forced to work long hours and were never around. “We’re standing with you, we’ve got your back,” Cabrera told the crowd.  He also thanked the union and its members for helping him get elected last fall.   

As of Tuesday, the bill has 26 sponsors. More than half of the city’s 51 councilmembers, then, are on board — enough for it to pass. To avoid the mayor’s veto, however, 34 sponsors are needed. 

Koppell said the bill isn’t that “radical.” In fact, several developments in Queens and Brooklyn already have a prevailing wage in place for building service workers.

But some opposition is anticipated.

“I suspect that the mayor may not be all that enthusiastic about it,” Koppell said after the meeting.

After all, Mayor Michael Bloomberg was no fan of the “living wage” requirement that the City Council insisted the developer, the Related Companies, grant future retail employees at a planned shopping mall inside the Kingsbridge Armory.  (Related refused and their redevelopment plan was squashed.)

Today, Vazquez still works full-time as a cleaner at Madison Square Garden. “I have a chance to retire with a pension,” she said. “I never thought that would happen.”

Vazquez believes others should be afforded similar opportunities.

“People in the Bronx and New York City need to have a way to pay their bills, and to be able to make a future for their children,” she said. 
 

The Time is Now for Schools Behind the Armory

By None

By Flor Cabrera

As a child, I always heard my mother call herself the lioness and her children were her cubs. I am now a parent and see myself in the same light as she did. So now, as a parent leader of the Education Committee of the Northwest Bronx Community & Clergy Coalition (NWBCCC), I fight for my children’s right to the best education and for the rights of kids in my community.
School District 10 is the third most overcrowded district in New York City. The recent report from the city comptroller, “Underprepared for Overcrowding,” lets us know just how much we need new schools — Bronx primary schools are 112 percent over-capacity.  Yet 1,703 seats were slashed from the previous capital plan, and the current plans to build new schools fall short of the number of seats needed.

I am the parent of a fifth grader at PS 79, and a pre-kindergartner at PS 386, and in my search for a great middle school for my older child, I became aware of just how severely overcrowded our schools are. I also learned that possible solutions have been presented to our leaders but they have not been met with the same interest, or not prioritized as they need to be.

It might seem inconsequential that many of our children do not have access to art and music rooms and science labs in their schools because these have been transformed into classrooms.

However, by not exposing our children to these areas of learning, we are failing to provide our children with the stimulation and knowledge they deserve and need in order to grow up to be the well-rounded individuals we strive for them to be.

Members of our community have come up with a viable solution to help ease overcrowding in school District 10, involving buildings on West 195th Street beside the Kingsbridge Armory.

This location could provide the surrounding communities with 2,000 school seats, which will alleviate the severe overcrowding. However, before we can do that, the current occupants, the National Guard, must move out.  What’s more, the National Guard is ready to move — and has submitted a proposal for the unoccupied Muller Army Reserve Center at 555 Nereid Ave. in Community District 12.

However, now that Bloomberg’s plan for a mall at the Armory was shot down, it seems that his administration has lost interest in fulfilling their commitment to build schools on 195th Street (a commitment made in the Armory request for proposals), by making excuses about why they may not be able to move the National Guard. 

It is imperative that our leaders, city agencies, and politicians give importance to the construction of new schools at the site. The Local Redevelopment Authority, comprised of Borough President Diaz’s office, Deputy Mayor Robert Leiber’s office, and the Economic Development Corporation must release a recommendation on the reuse of the Muller ARC center by March 23. We need to ensure that our children are put first — not punished because we defeated a bad development plan. The new schools behind the Armory need to happen now.

In the past, we have come together as a community. Just a few months ago, our community felt that the Related Companies’ development at the Kingsbridge Armory was not beneficial to us all. At that time, the community’s voice was loud enough that it was heard and the development was not approved. So it is time for us all to put all of our strength and effort into getting the National Guard to their new home and let us build our new schools at West 195th Street. We owe it to our children and our leaders owe it to us all.

Flor Cabrera is a parent leader in the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition.

Fire at Tolentine

By Editorial

As if our community hasn’t suffered enough from fire in recent months, the suspicious blaze at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church at University Avenue and Fordham?Road further alarmed residents already shell-shocked from the two horrific blazes in the merchant district of Bainbridge Avenue and East 204th Street.

Luckily, the destruction was limited to the church’s large vestibule, and the pastor, Father Joseph Girone, says he expects services to resume in the magnificent sanctuary by Easter.

Still, people are rightly worried that the fire was deliberately set and the Fire Department has deemed the Tolentine fire “very suspicious.”

This comes on top of the arrest of an alleged arsonist responsible for the December fire on East 204th Street.

And residents are anxiously awaiting news on what (or who) was responsible for the Halloween blaze that destroyed 10 stores on Bainbridge Avenue just up the block from 204th Street. The Fire Department has yet to issue any findings on its investigation.

The Bronx has a tragic history involving arson that razed much of the south Bronx. There is obviously no comparison to what happened then and what is happening now, but it is upsetting nonetheless that central gathering points in our communities may be a target for arsonists.

At the very least, this recent collection of tragic events warrants much closer scrutiny by the mayor’s office, the Fire Department, and other city agencies. 

Montefiore Employees Give Up Wages for Haiti

By Alex Gibbons

Montefiore Medical Center presented a $20,000 donation to the American Red Cross in Greater New York at their White Plains office last month, the first in a continuing fund-raising effort by Montefiore associates to aid relief activities in Haiti following the catastrophic earthquake on Jan. 12.

Montefiore associates are donating money through checks and payroll deductions to the Red Cross and the Mayor’s Haitian Relief Fund.

Shown at the presentation (see photo) are (left to right): Roberto S. Garcia, Senior Director of Community Relations, Montefiore Medical Center; Wendell P. Alexis, Community Relations Manager, Montefiore Medical Center; Rosemary W. Mackey, Chief External Affairs Officer, American Red Cross in Greater New York; H. Conrad Meyer, Bronx Board Chairman, American Red Cross in Greater New York; and Alice Rivera, Assistant Director of Community Development,  American Red Cross in Greater New York-Bronx Office.

Public and Community Meetings

By Norwood News

•    The Community Board will have a general meeting on Tuesday, March 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the St. Samuel Cathedral, 2930 Valentine Ave. and East 199th Street.
•    For a list of Community Board 7 meetings, visit bronxcb7.info/calendar or call (718) 933-5650.
•    The 52nd Precinct Community Council will meet on Thursday, March 24 at 7 p.m., location to be determined. For more information, call (718) 220-5824.
•    The Community Educational Council District 10 will meet on Thursday, March 18, at 6:30 p.m. at MS 206, 2280 Aqueduct Ave. For more information, call (718) 741-5836.

Two Bronxites Named to Charter Commission

By Alex Kratz

Mayor Michael Bloomberg appointed two prominent northwest Bronxites to a long-awaited 15-member Charter Revision Commission, which will take a look at the entire City Charter and propose any possible changes.

Tony Cassino, the former chairman of Community Board 8 and a former City Council candidate in District 11, and Father Joseph McShane, the president of Fordham University, were both named to the commission.

Bloomberg said he made the selections based on input and recommendations from “numerous elected officials and civic leaders.

City University of New York Chancellor Matthew Goldstein, a career educator and academic, was named chair of the commission. As vice chair, Bloomberg chose former City Council chief of staff John H. Banks, who is now the vice president of government relations at Con Edision and a member of the Metropolitan Transit Authority board.

Bloomberg says the commission will be charged with “reaching out to every community, analyzing every idea on the merits, and proposing changes that will improve the lives of New Yorkers.”

In a statement, Bloomberg said the commission would hold hearings in every borough as part of this outreach effort.
For months, rumors saying Bloomberg may be looking to change and perhaps take away some of the responsibilities of local community boards as well as those of the borough presidents have circulated through the borough.

Immediately after Bloomberg’s commission announcement last Wednesday, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. acknowledged some of those rumors in a statement. 

“I am happy that, after weeks of rumors and reports, Mayor Bloomberg has finally announced the appointment of a charter revision commission,” Diaz said. “I look forward to working with the commission and its members to ensure that the issues of all Bronxites are addressed through this body. To that end, this commission must hold hearings in the Bronx, in fact in all five boroughs, to guarantee that the voices of my constituents are heard.”

Dick Dadey, the executive director of the nonprofit Citizens Union, liked the appointment of Goldstein as chair, calling it an “inspired choice.”     —Alex Kratz

Neighborhood Notes

By Norwood News

Free Tax Prep at UNHP
University Neighborhood Housing Program (UNHP) and Ariva will offer FREE income tax preparation services to low and moderate income residents at the Refuge House, 2715 Bainbridge Ave. Returns are e-filed, which means clients who opt for direct deposit will receive refunds in as little as 10 days, without having to pay unnecessary Rapid Anticipation Loans (RAL), Pay Stub Loans, and/or costly tax preparation fees. Service is available for individuals and families whose gross income in 2009 was $56,000 or less on Wednesdays, March 24 and April 7 (from 1 to 7 p.m.) and Saturdays, March 27, and April 10 (from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Appointments are required. Call UNHP at (718) 933-2539 to schedule an appointment or for more information.

Free Tax Prep at Ridgewood Savings Bank
Ridgewood Savings Bank, located at 1626 Bruckner Blvd., will host Ariva’s FREE tax prep on Saturday, March 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bronx residents who are single with no dependants and earn less than $18,000 or those with dependants who earn less than $50,000 are eligible for free tax filing. Space is limited; advance appointment is required. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (718) 589-1323.

Help Restore the Harlem River
The public is invited to a free meeting held by the Bronx Council for Environmental Quality (BCEQ), focused on the restoration of the Harlem River, of the 9th Water Conference and the 39th Annual Membership Meeting, “Examining Harlem River Water Quality: Inputs, Effects and Solutions” on Wednesday, March 17 from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Manhattan College, Leo Engineering Building, 3825 Corlear Ave. (West 238th Street), followed by the Harlem River Working Group Monthly meeting from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Breakout groups will organize and refreshments will be served. To RSVP or set up a table, call (646) 462-4132 or email harlemriver@bceq.org.

Female Health Carnival
In recognition of National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, Bronx AIDS Services is sponsoring a “Wellness Carnival for Women and Girls” on March 13, from noon to 5 p.m. at Hostos Community College, 500 Grand Concourse, for ages 12 and up. There will be free HIV/AIDS testing, sexual health information, workshops, games, food, raffles and theater performances. For more information, call (718) 295-5605 ext. 293.

College Fair
The United Coalition Association and the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club will hold a New York State College Fair on Friday, March 19 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Club at 625 Castle Hill Ave. For more information, call (718) 842-3751 or visit www.nyscollegefairday.com.

Free Classes at BCC
Bronx Community College’s Displaced Homemaker Program is offering a free Beginner’s Computer Class in Microsoft Office along with Job Readiness Workshops and Job Placement Assistance to all those eligible. Classes will be held Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., through March 25 at BCC, 2155 University Ave. Students must be fluent in English and provide photo ID, proof of citizenship, social security card, and proof of income. Registration is required. For more information or to set up an appointment, call (718) 289-5828.

Free Workshops on Marketing Your Business
Learn how to promote your small business and gain more customers by attending the free “Marketing for Smarties Challenge, 14 Steps to Sustained Growth” workshops, held by the NYC Small Business Development Center. Workshops will be held Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., March 11 and 25, and April 8, at CUNY on the Concourse, 2501 Grand Concourse, 3rd floor. To register, call (718) 960-8806 or visit clarence.stanley@lehman.cuny.edu.

MetroCard Vans Coming
MTA MetroCard buses and vans will make the following stops: On March 12 and 26: at Van Cortlandt Village, 3880 Sedgwick Ave. from 9:30 to11 a.m.; at Fordham Road and the Grand Concourse from noon to 2 p.m.; and at Fordham Plaza (Fordham Road at Third and Webster avenues) from 2:30 to 4 p.m. On March 22, the van will be at Scott Tower, 3400 Paul Ave. (corner of 205th Street). Seniors and the disabled can apply for the Reduced Fare MetroCard on the van. All qualified applicants will receive their cards in the mail. You can also purchase or add value to your MetroCard. For more information, call (212) METROCARD or visit www.mta.info.

Flea Market
The Church of The Mediator, located at 260 W. 231st St., will host a flea market on March 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vendors can rent one table for $20 or two for $35. All proceeds will benefit the church. There will also be a health fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. where blood pressure screenings will be available. For more information, call (347) 992-4361 or (718) 549-8660.

Become a Better Parent
Continuing and Professional Studies at Bronx Community College, located at 2155 University Ave., at West 181st Street, is offering parenting courses that can help you become a more effective parent and decrease parenting stress. Courses will be offered Mondays from 7 to 10 p.m., March 15 through June 14. For more information, call (718) 289-5170 or visit www.bcc.cuny.edu/cps.

Youth Leadership Club
The 4-H Club youth organization, whose goal is to develop citizenship and leadership skills for ages 9 to 19, will hold meetings the first Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m., through June 7 at the Riverdale-Yonkers Society of Ethical Culture’s Meeting House, 4450 Fieldston Rd. For more information, call (718) 548-4445.

MMCC Little League
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center Little League, at 3450 DeKalb Ave., is registering for the spring baseball season for boys and girls ages 5 to 15. All children receive full uniform and trophy for participating. The fee is $100 plus $20 for accident insurance. To register, bring a copy of the child’s birth certificate and payment to the Center. For more information or to volunteer as a coach, call Chris Pinto at (718) 882-4000, ext. 256 or 280.

Help With College Applications
Mosholu Montefiore Community Center’s FREE College Bound Program, located at 3512 DeKalb Ave., is offering assistance to high school students who need help with the entire college application process. Students will receive professional, individual counseling and supportive services. For more information or to set up an appointment, call (718) 652- 0282.

Alcohol & Drug Use Council
The New York City Federation for Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Alcoholism Services invites consumers to attend meetings to help shape the future of substance abuse services. MetroCards will be available to consumer program participants. Meetings are held at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center Conference Room 4, 234 E. 149th St. (between Park and Morris avenues) on March 17 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Family Resource Day
The New York City Child Care Resource & Referral Consortium invites all families to come out to a free Family Resource Day in the Bronx on April 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bronx Library Center, Pre-Function Lobby, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. Parents can obtain information on summer camps and programs, childcare, enrichment programs and other community resources. For more information, call (888) 469-5999.

Give Art to the Park
The Mosholu Preservation Corporation is looking to bring an assortment of art to Bronx parks. Local artists who would like to donate art pieces for display in a park should contact Christian Cato at (718) 324-4461 or e-mail intern2@mpcbronx.org. If an art piece is chosen, the artist will be recognized by their name next to their art.

Cash Prize for Best Pro-Life Speech
The Bronx Right-to-Life Committee is holding its Annual Pro-Life Speech Contest on Saturday, March 20 at 10 a.m., at St. Margaret of Crotona Church Rectory, located at West 206th Street and Riverdale Avenue. The contest is open to high school juniors and seniors and is offering cash prizes to the top three finishers. Prizes are $500, $100, and $50. The speech must be five to seven minutes long. Topics up for discussion must all be from the pro-life viewpoint and include abortion, euthanasia, infanticide or stem cell research. For further information call Mrs. Meara at (718) 543-5091.

Kindergarten Registration
PS/MS 20, located at 3050 Webster Avenue, is accepting Kindergarten registration applications for the 2010-2011 school year. Children must be five years old on or before Dec. 31, 2010. Documents required: birth certificate; record of immunizations; two forms of proof of residence. For more information, call Rosemarie Ryan (718) 515-9370, ext. 1153.

Volunteers Needed at MS 80
MS 80 is calling on parents/guardians to volunteer as little as one hour per week. The school needs student mentors, math/reading tutors, cafeteria aides and part-time sports coaches. For more information, contact Mrs. Alejandro, Parent Coordinator, at (718) 405-6300, ext. 1131.

After-School Youth Program
Youngsters ages 11 to 16 are invited to participate in the newly re-opened free after-school program at The COVE, located in the basement of 3418 Gates Pl. The program will have recreation, dance/talent shows, trips, homework help, and it will teach participants how to create film and edit their own videos. The program runs with open enrollment through May and takes place on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. and on Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. For more information or to enroll, call Doug Knepper at (347) 374-7928.

Free Classes at State University
The North Bronx Career Center of The State University of New York, located at 2901 White Plains Rd., offers free basic to advanced daytime and evening classes, including computer courses, college prep courses, and more. Some restrictions may apply. For more information and to register, please call (718) 547-1001.

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.

Paid Lifeguard Training Program
The Department of Parks and Recreation will be recruiting and training summer lifeguards for the city’s 54 outdoor pools and 14 miles of beaches. The paid training program consists of 40 hours of instruction in swimming and rescue techniques, First Aid and CPR, and includes a final swim test and written exam. First-year lifeguards will earn at least $13.57/hour, and work 48 hours a week. For more info, call 311 or visit www.nyc.gov/parks.

Quit Smoking Program
The Albert Einstein Cancer Center/Montefiore Medical Center will be hosting an 8-session Quit-Smoking program created by a licensed Health Psychologist. Groups are now forming at Montefiore’s North Division at 600 E. 233rd St. (between Bronx Boulevard and Carpenter Avenue). For more information or to register, call (718) 430-2697 or email besmartquitsmoking@gmail.com.

Job Fair
Promoting Specialized Care and Health (PSCH) is hosting a job fair with on-the-spot job interviews every Wednesday from 9 to 11 a.m. Those interested working in health and human services who have relevant requirements should attend one of the fairs, which are held at 30-50 Whitestone Expressway, Flushing, NY. For more information, call (718) 559-0576. Resumes can be e-mailed to Recruiter2@psch.org or faxed to (718) 358-6790.

Free ESL and GED Classes
MS 80 at 149 E. Mosholu Pkwy. N. offers free ESL and GED classes. Applicants must be 21 years or older. Registration takes place every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. starting Nov. 7. For more information, call Mrs. Alejandro, Parent Coordinator, at (718) 405-6300, ext. 1131.

Children’s Baseball Sign-Up at MMCC
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center at 3450 DeKalb Ave. is accepting baseball registration for ages 5 to 15 in divisions by age, and girls softball for ages 9 to 15. To register, stop by the Center with your child’s birth certificate weekdays, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., or Saturdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information or to volunteer as a coach, call Chris Pinto (718) 882-4000, or visit www.mmcc.org.

Free Classes for Immigrants at NAWC
The Bronx YMCA New Americans Welcome Center (NAWC) is a “safe haven” committed to serving the immigrant population to achieve literacy, cultural competence, and self-sufficiency. It is currently offering four free classes: English as a Second Language (ESL) Beginners; ESL Intermediate; Citizenship Preparation; and Computer Literacy and Job Readiness. Classes will be held at Ellis Preparatory Academy, 99 Terrace View Ave. For more information, contact Irma Salvatierra Bajar at ibajar@ymcanyc.org or call the Bronx YMCA at (917) 673-8688.

Theodore Roosevelt H.S. Reunion
Theodore Roosevelt H.S. is celebrating its 30-year class reunion, and will be honoring the classes of 1978, 1979, 1980, and 1981 on June 19. This event will take place at the Royal Regency Hotel at 165 Tuckahoe Rd., Yonkers, NY. Guests should call the hotel for discounted room rates. Tickets are on sale online at www.showclix.com/event/7922. For more information, call Diana Diffut at (917) 476-3458.

Networking and Career-Building Travel Experience in Turkey
The Atlantic Council of the United States, in partnership with the Istanbul Policy Center at Sabanci University, is seeking participants for a one-month exchange program in mid-2010. They are seeking Turkish and American young professionals, aged 22-30 who have started careers in the fields of public policy, business and journalism. All expenses for the program will be paid. For more information, and to be considered for the program, contact David Kirk at dkirk@acus.org.

Participate in Medical Research Studies
Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University is inviting all interested parties to sign up for ResearchMatch.org, a new online medical research volunteer registry. Once registered, research institutions across the country can contact you to participate in various research studies based on your qualifications.

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.

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.

School Salon Reopened
The School for Professional Beauty Care at Grace Dodge Career and Technical High School, located at 2474 Crotona Ave., has reopened its after-school beauty parlor, The New Image Salon, for the fall semester. The salon, whose services are reasonably priced, is open every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and is staffed by graduating seniors of the school’s cosmetology program. To schedule an appointment, call (718) 584-2700.

PS/MS 20 School Shirts on Sale
PS/MS 20 requires that all students wear the appropriate uniform shirt. If parents wish, they may buy the shirts directly from PS/MS 20. Parents can call Rosa Rosado at (718) 515-9370 ext. 2154, to request an order form. Shirts for Pre-K to 5th graders are $10, and $12 for 6th to 8th graders.

Fall Into Fitness at MMCC
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center at 3450 DeKalb Ave. has begun its fitness schedule. Classes range from step aerobics and zumba classes to belly dancing. For details and/or to register, call (718) 882-4000 ext. 256 or 280.

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.

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.

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.

Workshops: Children With Disabilities
The Jewish Child Care Association at 555 Bergen Ave. will host monthly workshops through June of 2010 for families and professionals requiring services for children with disabilities. For detailed information and to register, call (212) 677-4650 ext. 20 or visit jccany.org.

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.

Donate Backpacks to Homeless Kids
Bronx BP Ruben Diaz, Jr. is encouraging Bronx residents to donate backpacks and school supplies to “Operation Backpack.” “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.

Self-Defense and Boxing at MMCC
The Mosholu Montefiore Community Center at 3450 DeKalb Ave. is offering self-defense classes on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays starting at 5:30 p.m. Its boxing program meets on Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. and on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for ages 7 and up. For more information, visit www.mmcc.org or call (718) 882-4000 ext. 0 or ext. 256.

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.

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.

Healthy Women Needed for Two Research Studies
Researchers at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, 1695 Eastchester Road, are looking for healthy women between the ages of 18-40 to test a vaginal gel for 12 weeks that could help prevent the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In addition, Doctors are looking for healthy women to test a vaginal gel for 14 days that could help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). In this research study, doctors want to learn about the cells that protect women from infection when using the gel. Participants will be compensated for time and travel in both studies. For information call Anna at: 718-430-3253.

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. 1131.

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 (718) 733-4260.

Programs for Teens, Toddlers, and Preschoolers
Mosholu Library, 285 E. 205th St., is offering various activities for children and teens. On Mondays at 4 p.m., teens can enjoy playing free Wii video games, and can meet on Wednesdays and 4 p.m. for “Teen Tech Time.” Toddler Storytime for children 1-3 years of age is held on the first Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. For children from 3 ½ – 5 years, Preschool Films is held on the second Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.

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.

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.

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
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.

 

Cabrera’s New Web site

By Alex Kratz

On Monday, 14th District Councilman Fernando Cabrera unveiled a new Web site (councilmancabrera.com) that he says constituents can use to log complaints (using a handy Google Maps application), alert the councilman to problems and find out about policy issues and news.

“I want people in the community to feel like they can access my office for their needs and concerns,” Cabrera said in a statement. “By incorporating new technology and utilizing tools that are now available to us, we are bringing the community into the process in unprecedented ways.”
 

Diaz Gives First ‘State of Borough’ Address

By Jordan Moss

Borough presidents may not have as much power as the city comptroller or Council speaker, but you wouldn’t know it from the scene last week at the Evander Childs High School campus where those officials and many, many more — including two former Council speakers and former borough president Fernando Ferrer — turned out for Ruben Diaz, Jr.’s debut State of the Borough address.

With high-profile attendees and a gaggle of TV news cameras trailing his entrance and departure, Diaz got the treatment of an up-and-comer.

His speech addressed the usual laundry-list of issues that are staples of such speeches — economic development, crime, education, etc. — but at least a few passages of the nine-page speech stood out.

In helping to orchestrate the defeat of Mayor Bloomberg’s proposal late last year to turn the Kingsbridge Armory into a giant shopping mall — with no provision for a living wage requirement as the borough president and local activists demanded — Diaz picked a high-profile fight with the city’s powerful real estate interests. If anyone didn’t get the message, he threw another punch.

“When New Yorkers are already struggling to pay their rents, when they must worry about feeding and clothing their children, when our poverty rates are the highest in the nation, we cannot accept that the minimum wage is the best salary a developer can offer while they take so heavily from the taxpayers’ wallets,” Diaz said referring to the project’s public subsidies. “If you want charity, you must be charitable. If you want a public benefit, your project must benefit the public.”

Though light on details, Diaz announced that he and Councilman Fernando Cabrera would be forming a task force to study new uses for the Armory.

The crowd’s overall enthusiasm ebbed considerably when Diaz discussed his support of charter schools. But the hearty applause returned when Diaz chastised charters that share school buildings with other public schools without sharing their resources.

“The criticism has been that when a charter school takes up residence in a public school building, it does not participate in the life of that building,” Diaz said. “The equipment is newer, the walls are freshly painted. The charter school becomes an oasis within the school building, and the parents, students and administrators at that public school feel left out. We need to bridge this divide. That is why I am challenging charter schools to use some of the funding they receive through philanthropy to make everyone’s world a better place.”

Diaz, like his predecessors, wants desperately to attract a hotel to the borough — an elusive milestone which many Bronx leaders feel is essential to developing a growing tourism economy.

“For too long, a real hotel has been absent in our borough,” said Diaz who said he was partnering with the New York Hotel Trades Council. “Our business community and not-for-profit groups, which are in dire need of first-class conference space, could see this hotel become the centerpiece of a new revival.” 

Diaz highlighted other issues like promoting green buildings and getting guns off the street. Read the full text of the speech and view video samplings at www.bronxnewsnetwork.org.

Local Residents Press DOT on Dangerous U-Heights Intersection

By Alex Kratz

[Update from print version, March 11, 4:50 p.m.]

William Clark looks at the “T” that makes up the intersection of Sedgwick Avenue and 183rd Street and remembers the gruesome death of an older man who tried unsuccessfully to cross from one side of 183rd Street to the other. A car turning from Sedgwick onto 183rd Street flattened him.

“It was right there on that sewer grill,” said Clark, the longtime super of the apartment building that sits on the northeast corner of what local residents call one of the most dangerous intersections in the borough.

Because of the intersection’s proximity to a day care, three elementary schools and Bronx Community College (BCC), residents want to see a stoplight installed to regulate traffic and prevent any more pedestrian casualties and car smashups.

Right now, there are a couple of yellow caution signs telling motorists to slow down and watch for children, but residents say this does nothing to stop, or even slow, hurried drivers.

“Cars fly through there,” says Lili Jones, a member of St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church’s faith action committee who has been voicing concerns about the intersection for years. “We need a [stop] light there.” 

The problem, residents say, is that up until recently, the city’s Department of Transportation (DOT) has not taken any action to remedy the situation.

“We’ve been trying to get a light there for 17 years,” Clark says.
Last spring, Jones’ faith action committee, joining forces with organizers and activists at the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition, began ramping up their lobbying efforts and putting pressure on the DOT to do something. In response, DOT officials said they would complete a study of the intersection to determine what, if any, measures should be taken.

Weeks, then months, passed with no word on the study. At some point last summer, DOT officials said the report was complete and that, in their estimation, a light at the intersection was not necessary. The study was not released to the public. 

Jones says the DOT claims that it doesn’t have any deaths or injuries on record for that intersection, but that doesn’t jibe with eyewitness accounts like Clark’s.

“We know that people have been hit [there],” Jones says.

(The DOT did not respond to specific questions about the intersection, but in an e-mail response to a Norwood News inquiry, a DOT spokesperson said there had been no injuries at the intersection since 2007 and no fatalites of any kind for for the past five years. The spokesperson said the DOT was conducting a study see if the intersection meets the federal criteria for a traffic light. They did not say what that criteria might be.)

But Jones and others fought on and have enlisted the help of their new Councilman, Fernando Cabrera, who has taken on the issue as his own. Cabrera brought up concerns about the intersection in a City Hall meeting with DOT Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan and recently visited the intersection and other local hotspots with Bronx Borough Commissioner Constance Moran.

Greg Faulkner, Cabrera’s chief of staff, says Moran appears to be sympathetic and is hopeful that something will get done.
Residents say they need safety measures installed now.
Bella Espinal, who walks with a cane, says sometimes she waits 15 to 20 minutes just to cross the intersection because traffic never lets up.

James Hill, a professor at BCC, says he “never crosses” 183rd Street at Sedgwick because of the danger.

Adama Fadiga, a mother of two small children, just moved to the area, but already, she says she’s noticed the problem. “Cars just fly around the corner, they don’t check,” she says. “It’s not right. They should do something about it.”

The problem, Jones says, is that it feels like “no one is listening.”

Church Vows to Rebound After ‘Suspicious’ Fire

By Alex Kratz

[Updated from print version, March 11, 1:26 p.m.]

Immediately after a fire ripped through the vestibule of St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church, causing severe damage last Friday morning, parishioners expressed relief and hopes for a quick rebound.

The two-alarm fire, which fire officials called “very suspicious,” was contained in the front  vestibule of the church, which sits on the heavily-trafficked corner of University Avenue and Fordham Road. The fire did not touch the sanctuary. Aside from a couple of minor injuries sustained by firefighters, no one was injured.

In other words, “It could be worse,” said Earle Orithineer, a member of Tolentine for the past 30 years.

In the aftermath of the blaze, dozens of parishioners gathered on the sidewalk outside the church. Everyone interviewed by the Norwood News said they expected a swift recovery.

“This is personal,” said Carlos Cortez, a Tolentine parishioner for the past 15 years who was married in the church and had his kids baptized there. “This is a very active community. It’s like our second home.” He added, “We’ll find a way [to recover].” 

Indeed, on Sunday morning, Tolentine held service in the church’s elementary school gym, located just down the block from the church (2336 Andrews Ave.) where they will hold regular services until the main sanctuary can be reopened for use.

At Sunday services, Tolentine Priest Joseph Girone said he felt like  "widower at my wife’s funeral." Members of the congregation seemed to be projecting all of their sorrow on him at Sunday mass, he said. They offered him condolences and the occasional dollar or three to aide in the rebuilding effort. (Girone says he’ll be outfitting the Web site with a way to 

Girone said his sermon focused on the theme of hope as he leads the congregation through the rebuilding process, which may take a considerable amount time and money because of the extent of the damage and the fact that the church will have to replace many historic pieces. 

"We can’t just go buy a door at Home Depot," Girone said.

Despite these challenges, Girone said he hopes to set up some temporary passage ways into the main sanctuary by the end of the month, which would allow them to conduct services there while the rebuilding construction is underway.

On a cool, windy Friday morning, at around 11:30 a.m., Girone, Tolentine’s head pastor, was in his rectory office preparing for noon mass when a receptionist told him thick smoke was billowing out of the church’s front doors. At the time, a handful of people were inside the sanctuary praying.

Girone reacted quickly. Through a side entrance that connects the church rectory to the sanctuary, the priest ferried the praying parishioners to safety.

Soon after, at about 11:45 a.m., the firefighters arrived at the church and began beating back the blaze, said Deputy Fire Chief Kevin Scanlon. A couple of firefighters were taken to the hospital with minor injuries after plaster from the ceiling rained down on them, Scanlon said.

Several parishioners suspected the fire may have been accidentally started by a homeless person smoking a cigarette in the vestibule. A significant homeless population often uses the church for shelter and occasional smoking lounge, especially during the cold winter months, parishioners say. 

But Scanlon said it appeared somebody set the fire deliberately because of its intensity and how it “accelerated rapidly.”

It took 60 firefighters to put out the blaze, which Scanlon and Girone said appeared to have started in one of the vestibule’s old confessionals, which the church was using for storage.

“It is [suspicious],” Girone said, echoing Scanlon. “You don’t get that kind of flame so quickly [when it’s accidental].”

Girone, who called the church “the Bronx’s cathedral,” could not imagine who would want to burn down the venerable 104-year-old church. “Lots of people have issues with God, but I don’t know who could have done this,” he said. “It’s very sad.”

Others were equally perplexed. “I don’t know who in their right mind would do something like this,” said parishioner Anna Sosa.

“This [church] is a beacon here in the community,” said Orithineer.

Despite the appearance of foul play, most parishioners, like Marilyn Martin, a Tolentine member for the past 48 and a half years, remained upbeat. “Definitely,” she said, “we’re going to bounce back.”

Circus Back in Town, Looking for a Home

By Alex Kratz

[Story updated from print version, Friday, 4:05 p.m.]

It’s not every day you see basketball-carrying unicyclists playing double-dutch on the Grand Concourse.

But there they were, three members of the legendary Bronx-born King Charles Troupe, doing their thing on a windy, chilly Friday morning in front of the Loew’s Paradise Theater just south of Fordham Road. Onlookers passed by; most smiling and amused, some just plain confused.

“Ladies, hope you come out to see the Black Top Circus, support your community,” said troupe co-leader Kip Jones.

Jones’ unicycle riding, basketball playing comedy team was hoping to return to its roots in the Boogie Down as the centerpiece of a new show called the Black Top Circus, which will also feature acrobats, comedians, a contortionist, jugglers and aerialists. And they were poised to unveil the new act on March 12 for a 10-day run at the Loew’s Paradise.

But at the last minute, on Tuesday, just three days before the first performance, Jones said Loew’s Paradise management abruptly cancelled the entire slate of shows. Now, Jones says the troupe is trying figure out what happened and what to do next. One option might include exploring the possibility of legal action against the theater. Loew’s Paradise could not be reached for comment by press time on Tuesday evening.

It means more trouble could be looming for the magnificent and historic theater, which just reopened under new management in October. The previous managers abandoned the theater after earning a reputation for not paying acts and cancelling shows without refunding ticket buyers.

Friday was to be the opening of a new chapter in the King Charles Troupe’s epic tale, which spans three generations and stretches from Crotona Park to Las Vegas to Japan, with plenty of stops and side trips in between.

The story actually begins around the time of World War I in Tampa, Florida, where a young Jerry King used to sneak into circus performances. His two favorite acts: the elephants and the unicyclists. King eventually moved to the Bronx, where he taught his son, Charles, to ride the unicycle in Crotona Park. Soon, the whole neighborhood was riding. 

Jerry King, known as “Mr. Jerry,” got the idea to fuse unicycle riding with basketball, formed a team and, in 1959, created what became known as the King Charles Troupe. They started out playing at block parties and other community events, but their reputation grew to the point where King Charles soon found themselves on TV, playing the Merv Griffin and Richard Pryor shows.

In 1968, King Charles auditioned for a Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey producer, Irving Feld, on the sidewalk in front of Madison Square Garden. A year later, the troupe signed with the Ringling Bros. Circus, becoming the first all-black act to tour with them. They stayed with Ringling Bros. for 19 years, were also featured in other circuses and played a long-running show in Las Vegas.

By the time they signed with Ringling, the troupe had all but perfected their style of playing basketball on unicycles at breakneck speed. They mixed in choreographed moves and comedy skits. Back in the day, they wore tight, flashy sequined costumes, big afros and massive facial hair. Since then, they’ve adopted more traditional basketball uniforms.

In addition to running with Ringling Brothers around the globe, the troupe had a team playing in Vegas full-time.

In 1991, Charles King and three other members of the troupe were killed in a car accident. From that tragedy, the next generation of troupe players emerged.

The diminutive but super athletic, Kip Jones, 42, counts himself among the second generation. Growing up on 167th Street and Clay Avenue, Jones stumbled into a gym where they were holding tryouts and he was instantly hooked.

At 15, Jones came to the unicycle relatively late. “It’s better to start early,” says Kingsbridge native Ramel Robinson, 25, a third generation rider. “You have no fear when you’re young.” Robinson jumped on a unicycle for the first time at age 11. His uncle, who’s still a troupe member, turned him on to the sport. Now, the two can stop, spin and jump on a dime on their unicycles. “It becomes a part of you,” Robinson says.

Tall and powerfully built, Robinson says he would probably be in the NFL or NBA if he hadn’t joined the troupe. But he wouldn’t trade his experiences with King Charles for anything. He’s travelled around the world and entertained thousands of fans.

Still, Robinson and Jones say, nothing beats the feeling of creating something new on the court and playing a game with their best friends. “It’s never dull, the ball always takes a different bounce every day,” Robinson says.

With the creation of Black Top Circus, the King Charles Troupe is again pushing itself to be different. Lately, Robinson and other troupe members have been performing periodically — on the TV show “America’s Got Talent,” with Cirque du Soleil — but they hope a string of shows in the Bronx could be the start of something bigger and more consistent.

Last Friday, the theater’s public relations director Denise Browne said the Loew’s Paradise was excited to partner with Black Top Circus to create more family entertainment. “For us, it’s about branching out,” Browne said. “A lot of people requested more family entertainment and we want to partner with the community.”

But for unknown reasons, four days later, the Loews Paradise had a change of heart.

“We’re trying to get some momentum, build some awareness for it,” Jones says. “So we wanted to start it off here where it all started, in the Bronx.”  

Ed. Note: For more information on the King Charles Troupe, visit thekingcharlestroupe.com.
 

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