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Out & About
May 20, 2010
By Judy Noy
Onstage
The public is invited to wax nostalgic at the Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road. Come enjoy Doo Wop with the Valentines, May 22 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 events: Uptown Serenade, A Benefit Concert, with Academy Award nominee Gabourey Sidibe, May 23 at 7:30 p.m. (tickets are $25; proceeds benefit the 4th Annual Kids Rule Weekend, a four-day free event for children and their families); a free concert, featuring a variety of music, performed by the school’s community band, May 16 at 2 p.m. in the Lovinger Theatre; and the Hunter Hootenanny Reunion Concert (featuring members of the famous Hunter College Hoots of the early’60s), for the benefit of the Bronx River Alliance, May 21 at 8 p.m. in the Lovinger Theatre (tickets are $35 or $40 for two). For more information, call (718) 960-8025 for the benefit concert, (718) 960-8247 for the band concert, and visit www.bronxhoot.org or call (718) 430-4613 for the reunion and tickets for the Bronx Hoot Reunion Picnic, featuring music and canoe rides on the Bronx River at Shoelace Park, to be held May 22 at noon.
The Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. E., presents The Original Latin Divas of Comedy, May 22 at 8 p.m. (tickets are $25 to $35); and Golden Dragon Acrobats, from China, May 23 at 4 p.m. (tickets are $15 to $25; $10 for ages 12 and under), preceded by a Chinese buffet luncheon in the dining room at 2 p.m. ($15 per person). For more information, call (718) 960-8833.
The Bronx Arts Ensemble presents Chamber Music featuring soprano, piano and cello, in the home of Drs. Donald and Helen Meyers, 4560 Delafield Ave., May 23 at 3 p.m.; and Memorial Day Holiday Concert, in Van Cortlandt Park, May 30 at 2 p.m. For more information, call (718) 601-7399.
The Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance (BAAD!), located at 841 Barretto St., presents its Boogie Down Dance Series 2010 through May 23 featuring a variety of shows. For a complete schedule, call (718) 842-5223 or visit bronxacademyofartsanddance.org.
Events
The Bronx Museum, located at 1040 Grand Concourse (at 165th Street), presents Family Affair: Happy Together, to celebrate various cultures of the Bronx with hands-on workshops and guided tours of the exhibitions, May 22, 1 to 4 p.m., free, in the North Building, 2nd floor. For more information, call (718) 681-6000.
n Bronx Week 2010 takes place from May 15 to 23 featuring daily events throughout the borough including outdoor performances, trolley tours, health fairs, and workshops, all culminating in a parade, food and art festival, and concert on Mosholu Parkway on the last day. For more information, call the Bronx President’s Office at (718) 590-3500.
n Wave Hill, located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, offers two family art projects: Plant an Art Garden, to construct oversized sculptural flowers using natural and recycled materials, May 22 and 23; and All Eyes on Irises, to make a collage of irises and other flowers across a folding screen, May 29 and 30; both in the Kerlin Learning Center from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, call (718) 549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.
The public is invited to ride the June 2 free Bronx Culture Trolley, a replica of a 20th-century trolley, which transports visitors on the first Wednesday of every month (except January and September) to Bronx hot spots, all featuring a variety of entertainment options and ends at the Bruckner Bar & Grill for music, food and drink. Trolley night starts with a 5 p.m. reception at the Longwood Art Gallery at Hostos Community College, 450 Grand Concourse (at 149th St.). From there, the trolley departs at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. New attractions are added monthly; admission to most venues is free. Riders can get on and off at any scheduled stop and spend as much time as they wish at any or all of the featured venues. For more information and a detailed schedule, call (718) 931-9500 ext. 33 or log on to www.bronxarts.org.
Exhibits
The Museum of Bronx History, located at 3266 Bainbridge Ave. (at 208th Street), presents Parkchester: City Within a City, through Oct. 3; and Bronx High School Valedictorians Awards Program, presented by the Bronx Council Historical Society, June 6 from 1 to 3 p.m. featuring entertainment, tours of the museum and food and refreshments. Reservations are requested; donations are tax deductible. For more information, call (718) 881-8900.
The New York Botanical Garden hosts the following events: Emily Dickinson’s Garden: The Poetry of Flowers, through June 13; Endangered Plants Here and Around the World, a traveling exhibition on display in the Ross Gallery through July 25 (featured artists will teach botanical art and illustration courses during this period); Children’s Poetry Garden, through June 13 in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden; and Dig, Plant, Grow! through June in the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden. For more information and class and program schedules, call (718) 817-8700.
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. BRAC is also presenting Dialects IV, through May 29. For more information, visit www.nyc.gov/urbanart.
The Lehman College Art Gallery, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., will hold a fund-raising exhibition in honor of its 25th anniversary, through June 4. Small works by friends and artists who have exhibited at the Gallery over the past 25 years will be exhibited, and are priced at $500 or less. All proceeds will be split between the Gallery and the artist. For more information, call (718) 960-8731.
Library Events
The Bronx Library Center, at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, presents the following programs for preschoolers and school-aged children: Preschool Story Time, May 20, 27 and June 3 at 11 a.m.; Toddler Story Time, May 29 at 11 a.m.; and films, May 26 and June 2 at 4 p.m. For teens and young adults, there is Crafternoons, May 21 and 28 at 3:30 p.m. Adults can attend Grant Seeking Basics, a workshop by The Foundation Center, May 24 at 6 p.m.; and Let’s Talk About HIV/AIDS and Sexual Health, June 2 at 10 a.m. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.
The Mosholu Library, at 285 E. 205th St., hosts Toddler Story Time, June 3 at 10:30 a.m. for children; and Knitting Circle, May 20 and 27 at 3 p.m. for adults. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.
The Jerome Park Library, at 118 Eames Place, presents Crafternoons, May 6, 13 and 20 at 4 p.m. for teens and young adults; and Toddler Story Time, May 21 at 11 a.m. for children. For more information, call (718) 549-5200.
NOTE: Items for consideration may be mailed to our office or sent to norwoodnews@norwoodnews.org, and should be received by May 31 for the next publication date of June 3.
Students ‘Go Together’ for Grease
May 20, 2010
By Dardinia Joseph
Father John A. Vigilanti, president of the Academy of Mount St. Ursula, expressed deep satisfaction after his school teamed up with students from Fordham Prep, and St. Michael’s studentsto re-enact the Tony award-winning musical “Grease.”
“The sacrifices parents make to send their children to Catholic high schools here in the Bronx are well justified when you experience the wonderful, engaging cooperation of students who gave a bravura musical show,” Vigilanti said in a statement.
The show took place on April 16, 17 and 18. The performances included dance numbers like “Grease Lightning,” choreographed by Ursula productions worker Thomas J. O’Sullivan, as well as musical performances like the famous “We Go Together,” directed by the Academy’s music teacher Laura Ravotti.
Carol Mills, a 1958 alumna who attended the matinee said, “These shows are part of the foundation of Ursula. It’s exciting to see them grow and display their talents on stage.”
“This was by far the most talented cast I’ve ever worked with…best opening night in 11 years” said musical theatre director Jeanne DiBenedetto.
In closing the show, the cast thanked those who contributed, and the seniors performed a heart-wrenching rendition of “For Good” from the musical “Wicked,” dedicated to the directorial team.
Characters Come to Life at St. B’s
May 20, 2010
By Dardinia Joseph
At the first-ever Book Character Day in Susan Quinn’s first grade class at St. Brendan’s School, the scene was like a big Walt Disney storybook come to life. Twenty-seven children dressed in different costumes to reflect their favorite storybook character.
Students dressed like Jack and the Beanstalk, Clifford the Big Red Dog, Harry Potter, and Sleeping Beauty, among other characters.
Quinn, dressed as Little Red Riding Hood, has been teaching first grade at St. Brendan’s for 19 years. To prepare for Book Character Day, her class has been learning to read for the past three months by writing book reports, biographies and even keeping journals.
“This is a way to make books come alive and reading a more enjoyable and enthusiastic experience,” said Quinn.
Students Carlos Tobar, 7, and Bridgete Fahey, 6, agreed. A beaming Carlos, in his “Cat in the Hat” ensemble, said he picked that character because it was an easy costume and he likes “Cat in the Hat.” Like many of the students, Carlos’ family contributed to the project.
“My sister helped draw my whiskers,” said Carlos. “It’s fun to be a book character.”
A blue eyed and rather shy Bridgete bought her Alice in Wonderland costume early that morning. She chose Alice because “she is talented and it’s a very good book.”
Bridgete added, “Dressing up like characters makes you want to read more.”
PS/MS 20 Cheerleading Squad Wins Competition
May 20, 2010
By Dardinia Joseph
Last month, the PS/MS 20 Tigers cheerleading squad took the Roosevelt High School Cheerleading Competition by storm, winning first place.
The squad of 10 girls, ages 10 to 13, faced three other schools in the competition. Fifth grade teacher Takami Dunn, who has been coaching the squad for three years, said the most remarkable aspect of her team’s victory was that none of the girls had prior cheerleading or organized team sports experience. They barely had a place to practice or the proper equipment when Dunn decided to form the squad, she said.
It was a Fordham University junior and cheerleader, Sarah Dudley, who helped provide the girls with a place to practice. Dudley volunteers with the kindergarteners at the school and convinced her university cheerleading squad to assist Dunn with training the girls.
The girls’ motivation, Dunn said, comes from within. They go home and practice after practice and show up ready to work the next day, she said.
After winning the competition, Dunn said 100 girls applied to be on next year’s squad. Only 50 made tryouts and only 10 made the squad.
Dunn admits she is strict. Each member must fulfill academic and community service requirements to be an active cheerleader. She hopes to “work with the girls to build self confidence and determination as we grow and compete as a team.”
PS 94 Makes Cents for Patients
May 20, 2010
By Dardinia Joseph
A penny by itself isn’t worth much to most people. But when dedicated students come together for a good cause, those pennies, combined with other loose change can amount to $2,854.52 in just under six weeks.
Students of PS 94 filled jars, shoe boxes, envelopes and more with any and all loose change they could collect to go towards the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Pennies for Patients fund-raiser.
The funds go towards patient services and cure-focused research, said Kristina Wertheimer, one of the society’s coordinators. She is part of six-person team responsible for 570 schools in the city’s area.
Five years ago, Principal Diane Daprocida and school counselor Angela Marinez adopted the program with a goal of only $500. Since then, “it has grown extremely popular in the school,” said Marinez.
Daprocida said her niece passed away from leukemia two years ago.
Ms. Quinones’ class, a special needs class of 12 children, won the pennies competition open to fourth and fifth graders. The reward was a free pizza recess.
Christina Fulton, who raised $116, said she “feels good helping other people who do not have anything and people should always donate old clothes, food and loose change.”
Jose Andino, who also raised $116 and helped with the decorating of the classroom, said, “I never won anything in my life. It feels good. Now my class has bragging rights.”
Behind the backbone of the whole event were six peer mediators: Nurzhan Rahman, Edward Collado, Muhammed Miah, Marjan Hasan, Atahr Abdullah, and Amna Nafees.
Marinez claims that the dedicated students have been organizing bake sales, making signs and more and arrived at school every morning at 8 a.m. sharp.
“I don’t like to see people cry, that’s why I helped out,” Nurzhan, 10, said. “I tried to solve a problem.”
Edward, 10, said, “If people don’t like helping others, they really should because when something happens to you, you wouldn’t like it if no one helped you out.”
More Help for Needy On the Way at POTS
May 20, 2010
By Norwood News
Part of the Solution (POTS), a multi-service agency and soup kitchen on Webster Avenue in Bedford Park, will be able to provide thousands more meals and expanded services by Thanksgiving, now that the group has broken ground on a new facility.
In an event announcing the expansion on Monday, agency officials gathered with Congressman Jose Serrano, Councilman Joel Rivera, Linda Gibbs, deputy mayor for Health and Human Services and other supporters. The new building at 2761-2763 Webster Ave. was made possible with financing from the Low Income Investment Fund and from Chase, as well as philanthropic support.
“In the past five years, the number of meals POTS’ emergency food program provided went from 200,000 in 2005 to 330,000 last year, driven largely by families requesting emergency groceries,” said Sr. Mary Alice Hannan, POTS’ executive director. “The new facility will not only allow POTS to feed more people, but it will enable the agency to expand its services to help families stabilize and improve their lives.”
The project will allow POTS to expand after-school tutoring, cooking and nutrition classes, an on-site medical clinic, and conversion of its food pantry to a “grocery store” model.
For more information about POTS, go to www.potsbronx.org or call (718) 213-0595.
Fordham Walkers ‘Go Green’
May 20, 2010
By Norwood News
More than 1,000 people attended the Fordham Road Business Improvement District’s “Go Green Walk,” which was designed to promote healthy living in the Bronx. It culminated in a multi-cultural fair at Devoe Park on Kingsbridge Road. During the event, raffles were held and many prizes were given away, including tickets to Mets and Yankees games, total experience package tickets to the Bronx Zoo, an autographed poster of Giants quarterback Eli Manning and stickers and pencils from the New York Jets. Also given out were gift cards and prizes from many Fordham Road businesses, including 24-Hour Fitness, Gem Pawnbrokers, Nine West and PC Richards.
Communities Take Ownership of Their Local Parks
May 20, 2010
By Norwood News
As part of a citywide volunteer iniative called “It’s My Park Day!”, dozens of local residents, and community groups, lead by Jennifer Beaugrand of Mosholu Preservation Corporation’s horticulture program, launched an all-out offensive to beautify the gully on Mosholu Parkway near Webster Avenue. There were projects held throughout the city and the Bronx, including another strong effort to clean up St. James Park.
Path to Schools at Armory May Go Through Wakefield
May 20, 2010
By Jeanmarie Evelly
It’s a game of musical buildings in the Bronx’s School District 10, one of the most crowded districts in the city.
Parents and advocates have been trying for years to have new school space built at the Kingsbridge Armory Annex, a cluster of buildings on West 195th Street, between Jerome and Reservoir avenues.
For that to happen, however, the building’s current tenants — the National Guard — would have to move. Local organizers have suggested what they see as a perfect new home for the military units: a now-vacant building in Wakefield known as the Muller Army Reserve Center.
But there’s a catch. The Muller Center, at 555 Nereid Ave., is subject to the Base Reassignment and Closure, or BRAC, process—a federally-mandated procedure for closing excess military bases and transitioning them for community use. The process requires that priority be given to the needs of the homeless in the area, making it a possibility that the Muller building could be used as a shelter, an idea community members are resistant to.
“I don’t see any way it could benefit the community,” said Father Richard Gorman, chairman of Community Board 12.
There are already two homeless housing projects in the works in the Wakefield neighborhood, he added, saying the area doesn’t need any additional sites.
Gorman said the proposal to move the National Guard into the facility would be a “win-win” for the neighborhood, as it would be an appropriate use for the building and would simultaneously free up space at the Armory Annex for much-needed schools.
A decision on the Muller Center has been delayed by the city, he said.
The building’s future is in the hands of a Local Redevelopment Authority (LRA)—a panel comprised of the Bronx borough president and two deputy mayors.
A spokesman from the city’s Economic Development Corporation (EDC), which began accepting Notices of Intent from community groups for use of the building last year, said that no decision has been made yet about the Center’s future. The deadline was pushed back 270 days to Dec. 15, according to the spokesman, because the LRA is still reviewing its applications.
Liseth Pérez Almeida, press secretary for Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., who serves as the chairman of the LRA, said Diaz is behind the community’s efforts to free up space at the Armory.
“The BP strongly supports using it to house the National Guard units from the Armory to facilitate development of schools,” she wrote.
But the National Guard will have to compete with two community groups who are also vying for the space. An article in the New York Daily News last fall reported that the Doe Fund and the South Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (SoBro) were petitioning to use the site.
The Doe Fund, a Manhattan-based non-profit that runs a work readiness program and supportive housing for the homeless, said it could not comment on whether or not it had applied.
Phillip Morrow, SoBro’s president and CEO, said the group had indeed submitted an application for the building in response to the EDC’s Requests for Proposals, but that they hadn’t heard anything about it since.
“You probably know about as much as we do,” Morrow said. “It’s sort of fallen off our radar.”
SoBro had proposed using the space to build a Challenger Center, a mock space shuttle that children could use to learn about the science and technology behind space travel. The rest of the building, he said, would be used as permanent housing for the homeless, which SoBro included in the plan to align itself with the EDC’s request. SoBro has since started looking for other buildings to house their space center.
The EDC spokesman said there will be a public hearing, followed by a period for public comment on the reuse plan and homeless assistance submission, before a decision is made by the end of the year. Dates have not yet been set.
MMCC Celebrates, Salutes Honorees
May 20, 2010
By Jordan Moss
Staff, friends and supporters of Mosholu Montefiore Community Center gathered at Lehman College’s Music Building last week for its eighth annual Bursting with Pride celebration.
The event raised about $70,000 for the Center’s critical programs, which serve 28,000 people – from toddlers to senior citizens – in 14 different locations.
MMCC honored Reva Gershen Lowy, who runs the Center’s daycare programs, which serve 700 kids in four different locations. When she began at the Center in 1988, the program had 30 children.
Phyllis Lantos, the chief financial officer of New York Presbyterian Hospital, was also honored. Lantos’ sons, Josh and Ben attended pre-school at MMCC in the 1980s.
The Center also paid tribute to Richard Celiberti, a Bronx native who is senior vice president for Network Development at Montefiore Medical Center.
In remarks at the event, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz and Council Member G. Oliver Koppell, told the crowd that securing financial support for the Center and the community it serves is a top priority for them.
“There’s nothing more worthwhile than trying to be helpful to Mosholu Montefiore Community Center,” Dinowitz said.
“There’s no center that does as much as Mosholu Montefiore and each year the mission expands,” said Koppell, who added that he allocates more of more of his discretionary funds to the Center than any other organization.
At Montefiore, Workplace Expands to Great Outdoors
May 20, 2010
By Jordan Moss
A few hours after workers completed a new courtyard just to the left of Montefiore Medical Center’s main entrance on East 210th Street, Montefiore’s president, Steven M. Safyer, MD, could be seen making the rounds of the space in what seemed to be a final inspection.
On the surface, it might seem like a minor project in a medical institution with 17,000 employees. But it’s a major priority for Safyer, precisely because of those employees.
He wants to create a collaborative, campus-like atmosphere using underutilized outdoor spaces at Montefiore’s three hospitals. (In addition to the Moses division in Norwood, the other two are the former Our Lady of Mercy, now Montefiore’s North Division, and the Weiler Division in the east Bronx.) To do that, he says, “It’s important to have communal space that’s indoors and outdoors.”
In addition to the work breaks and lunches the space is obviously suited for, Safyer envisions the courtyards and other open spaces the hospital has created as outdoor conference areas where staff are encouraged to meet and exchange ideas.
“When people are feeling like they’re connected to each other, they perform better,” says, Safyer, who sketched out his ideas for the new courtyard space before architects took over.
Safyer and his engineering staff, led by Edward Pfleging, launched the renovations last spring when the courtyard to the right of the main entrance (known as the East Garden) was given a makeover. It is home to a large farmers market through the summer. Just across the street, a shady spot atop a little hill that was home to a large sculpture is now a quiet space to gather as well.
The courtyard spaces, which offer free wi-fi Internet access, are gated but they are open to local residents, who can access them just by coming into the main lobby of Montefiore’s Moses Division on East 210th Street and going through the doors to the left or right.
“We’re an open community,” Safyer says. “We are the Bronx.”
The new courtyard, known as the West Garden, is part recreational plaza with teak tables and chairs, and part amphitheater with a semi-circle, terraced seating area where Montefiore staff and visitors can be already be seen reading, eating, talking on cell phones and soaking up the sunshine.
“It makes a big difference,” said Dr. Marjorie Strelzyn, a Montefiore optometrist who was enjoying her lunch in the sunshine on Monday. “It refreshes you for the rest of the day.”
The amphitheater seating is not a random design element. Beginning June 7 and running on Mondays through the end of August, the courtyard will host lunchtime concerts from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. The first one will feature a female doo-wop group. The farmers market in the East Garden begins on May 27 and continues every Thursday through the summer from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. And beginning June 1 there will be barbecues with food for sale on Tuesdays from 11 a.m until 3 p.m.
The outdoor spaces seem to be having the desired effect on morale. Enjoying lunch with three of her colleagues, Jessica Dekhtyar, MD, said it was a highlight of her day.
“I’ve been thinking about it all morning,” she said, as her co-workers laughed in agreement.
Ed. Note: Norwood News is published by Mosholu Preservation Corporation, a not-for-profit affiliate of Montefiore Medical Center.
Nurses Rally for Contract, Better Working Conditions
May 20, 2010
By Anelgi Solis
Nurses from Montefiore Medical Center held a boisterous rally in front of the hospital’s main entrance last week for a fair contract and better working conditions.
More than 100 Montefiore nurses paraded with signs, noisemakers and whistles on Gun Hill Road at lunchtime last Monday. Judith Sheridan-Gonzalez, head of the union for the Medical Center’s Moses division, cheered them on using a bullhorn. “They say cut back, we say fight back,” she shouted. “Diginity, respect, it’s the patients we protect!”
Lourdes Blanco, the vice president for the union at Moses, said Montefiore nurses have been working without a contract for nearly 16 months and are concerned about their pensions and benefits.
“We just want to secure our benefits,” Blanco said. “Right now, we are very leery because we feel like they are trying to play with our pension money and that’s just not fair.”
Sheridan-Gonzalez said the two sides are far apart on how much each side will contribute to pension and other benefit plans.
Nurses are also highlighting their working conditions. They say the nurse-to-patient ratios set 10 years ago are not being enforced and that they are over-extended.
Montefiore officials declined to comment, citing ongoing negotiations.
“In hiring us, Montefiore took a vow to take care of us, and provide us with the tools we need to take care of our patients.” said Michelle West, a pediatric Intensive Care Unit nurse. “But for the past 16 months, they have not lived up to their vow.”
“We nurses are always here, 24/7,” said Tabia Lamothe, RN. “We are the ones that run the hospital, really. Doctors go in and out, write orders and they go. We are there all the time.”
The rally coincided with Nurses Week, which Montefiore nurses boycotted by not accepting food and gifts offered by the hospital. The nurses asked the hospital to send the food to Part of the Solution, a multi-service center and soup kitchen on Webster Avenue, so it wouldn’t go to waste.
Negotiations between the nurses and management are scheduled to resume on May 25.
Ed. Note: The Norwood News is published by Mosholu Preservation Corporation, a not-for-profit affiliate of Montefiore Medical Center.
City-Funded Building Rises on Decatur Avenue
May 20, 2010
By Anelgi Solis
Residents on Decatur Avenue in Norwood have a giant new addition moving in to the neighborhood.
The 13-story, burgundy and white building being constructed at 3322 Decatur Ave. dwarfs the surrounding buildings and homes on the block and will likely bring a few hundred more people into the community.
Touted by the city as an example of how it’s creating more affordable housing, the Decatur Terrace complex will include 121 new apartments for middle-income families. It is equipped with an underground parking lot (60 spots), an on-site laundry room, dishwashers in every apartment and 24-hour surveillance cameras.
The building is a collaboration of the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC), the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), the Highbridge Community Development Corporation, and a private developer.
General preference will be given to New York City residents. Community Board 7 residents, which include those living in Norwood, Bedford Park, Fordham and University Heights, will receive preference for 50 percent of the units. Families with people with visual, hearing or mobility impairments, as well as city employees, will receive preference for five percent of the units.
“The building is a good look for the neighborhood but it would be even better if they rented to everybody,” said Manuel Puma, a resident of a neighboring building on Decatur.
Puma doesn’t mind the building where it is, but laments the construction that has preceded it. “It’s been over a year. They’re here at seven in the morning till six in the evening, even Saturdays,” he said. “There’s debris everywhere. It’s a mess out here.”
The mayor’s office says the building is part of the city’s $8.5 billion initiative to build or preserve 165,000 units of affordable housing by 2014. Under this initiative, the mayor’s office said it has created or preserved 100,000 units of affordable housing in the city since 2004.
“It is the most ambitious and productive affordable housing plan in the nation, said Eric Bederman, an HPD representative. “Through the mayor’s plan we are creating housing for half a million New Yorkers, and in the process we are adding valuable jobs to the city’s economy.”
The application process for Decatur Terrace began last December and ended in February. Eligible applicants will be chosen through a lottery.
To be considered for one of these developments, one has to apply and earn at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI). The Bronx’s AMI is $77,400, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Calculations are based on family size. So, for a family of four, 80 percent of the AMI is $61,450. For a single person it would be $43,000.
Currently, developers are installing the final components, including plumbing and electricity, Bederman said. It remains unclear when the building will be completed and when people will begin moving in.
52nd Precinct Grapples with Crime Spike
May 20, 2010
By Alex Kratz
With robberies, assaults and rapes rising sharply and two shootings in recent weeks, Deputy Inspector John D’Adamo, the commanding officer of the 52nd Police Precinct, did not sugar coat the fact that this area of the Bronx had gone through a rough stretch of increased crime.
“April was tough,” D’Adamo said in a recent interview.
For the 28-day period ending on May 9, the amount of robberies had doubled compared to the same time period a year ago, from 24 last year, to 49 this year.
D’Adamo attributed much of that increase to young people robbing other people. He said a huge portion of the robberies were happening on or around Fordham Road, on the west side of precinct, near Andrews Avenue. In response, D’Adamo said he increased patrols around the area and that there had been very few robberies there since the beginning of May.
Still, during the first week of May, robberies were up, from seven to 13, when compared to the same week last year. For the year, however, D’Adamo pointed out that robberies were down about 6 percent (from 178 last year, to 167 this year), according to official NYPD statistics.
On the other hand, felony assaults, which can include anything from domestic violence to gun violence, and rapes, are both up for the year. Felony assaults have spiked nearly 19 percent, from 122 last year, to 145 this year. Rapes are up from eight at this point in 2009, to 11 so far in 2010, including four during the first week of May.
D’Adamo said many of these assaults and rapes are happening behind closed doors in cases of domestic violence, which he says are “hard to enforce.”
But at least two recent cases of assault happened on the street and resulted in bloodshed. Two weeks ago, three people were shot near the corner of 194th Street and Marion Avenue early Saturday morning. All of the victims were expected to live. D’Adamo said the shooting was still under investigation, but that his detectives had “good video” on the incident and were chasing down some promising leads.
He also said Five-Two detectives had solid video on a shooting that happened outside of 2305 Marion Ave. A victim was struck in his left leg from an assailant who came up behind him. D’Adamo wouldn’t go into detail about the motive behind the attack because of the ongoing investigation.
One thing that has remained more or less consistent this year, D’Adamo said, is a sharp increase in arrests compared to last year. He said arrests are up 30 percent this year. He added that the precinct needs help from the community, which he called the precinct’s “partner” and its “eyes and ears.” If residents have tips, they can call (718) 220-5811 and ask for the detective squad. D’Adamo assured that callers will receive complete anonymity.
For Tenants in Foreclosure Limbo, A New Legal Strategy
May 20, 2010
By Jeanmarie Evelly
Gloria Thomas remembers when her building at 2505 Aqueduct Ave., where she’s lived for nearly 30 years, was the envy of neighbors nearby.
“When I moved in this building, in the lobby was a huge mirror over this beautiful fireplace, and wrought iron benches,” she remembered.
Now, the mirror has been broken for years and the benches are long gone. The halls are dirty, her ceiling leaks and her bathroom sink has been clogged for weeks, Thomas says.
Her building is one of more than a dozen Bronx properties, at least two of which are located in University Heights, owned by Milbank Real Estate, a private equity firm based in Los Angeles. The company bought the buildings in 2006 and 2007, taking out massively expensive mortgages to do so. When rents were not profitable enough to cover mortgage payments, Milbank defaulted on the loan, sending the properties into foreclosure proceedings.
Since then, tenants at Milbank’s apartments have seen the condition of their homes deteriorate rapidly. Reports of rodents, mold infestations and weeks without hot water are par for the course. Some of the buildings have hundreds of housing code violations.
“When Milbank took over, things got worse,” said Etta Hill-Banks, who has lived at 2505 Aqueduct Ave. since 1978.
Complicated and risky mortgages, lent by banks during the boom times, have put many New York buildings into similar predicaments. Tenants, in the meantime, are caught in a strange limbo where it’s unclear who should be held responsible for the upkeep of the buildings.
“[The lack of accountability] was part of the problem with these mortgages,” said Gregory Lobo Jost, deputy director for the nonprofit University Neighborhood Housing Program.
Mortgages, like the ones Milbank took out, often get packaged with others, forming a huge, multi-billion dollar trust (known as a mortgage backed security) that’s then sold off in pieces to a number of investors.
Technically, it’s this group of faceless investors that owns these mortgages, and the entire trust is controlled and overseen by a bank, Jost explained.
“In this whole process, who has any responsibility?” he asked.
It is the banks, says one legal group. Legal Services-NYC Bronx recently filed a legal motion on behalf of the tenants in 10 of Milbank’s properties, attempting to hold Wells Fargo, the bank that oversees the huge trust that contains the mortgages (or the trust’s special servicer, a company called LNR Property Group) financially responsible for the maintenance of the buildings.
“This deal is structured so that everybody can evade liability,” said James Jantarasami, a staff attorney with Legal Services-NYC. “Somebody has to be held accountable.”
Milbank’s mortgage on these properties is indicative of many deals that were made during the housing boom that imploded two years ago, Jantarasami said. Real estate firms took out expensive mortgages and bought up properties in low-income neighborhoods, with the hopes of cleaning up the buildings, forcing current tenants out and hiking rent prices to new tenants.
Milbank did not return calls for comment by press time. But their website, which still lists the Bronx properties as part of their portfolio, lays out some of their business plan.
“Milbank identified the Bronx borough of New York as one of the last boroughs to offer affordable rent, which would also be positioned to undergo significant gentrification,” it reads.
But that gentrification never came, according to Jantarasami, or at least not at the rate Milbank anticipated. And without the base of wealthier tenants they’d hoped for, the group could no longer afford to maintain the buildings and make their mortgage payments.
Once the building went into foreclosure, the trust’s special servicer, LNR, was in charge of handling the proceedings. At the same time, the court appoints a receiver, someone in charge of upkeep and collecting rents.
But by this time, some of the buildings are in such a state of disrepair that rents don’t cover the costs for the receiver to do necessary maintenance, as with many of Milbank’s properties.
“We inherited a building that is in distress and has been neglected,” said Walter Rivera, a Bronx attorney who was appointed as receiver for two of Milbank’s properties on Garden Street (these two buildings—770 and 780 Garden St., are not one of the 10 properties involved in Legal Service-NYC’s current motion, as they were packaged in a different trust).
Rivera says he’s aware of the building’s problems, but doesn’t have the funds to fix them.
The legal motion is attempting to force Wells Fargo or LNR to provide the money to receivers like Rivera, so they can afford to keep the buildings livable, said Jantarasami.
Wells Fargo denied any responsibility. In an e-mail response, a spokesperson said the bank does not own or control the loans on the Milbank properties, but merely serves as the trustee for COMM 2006-C8, the huge mortgage backed security that these 10 buildings are a part of.
“The role of the Trustee is to represent the interests of the certificate holders, who are the owners of these loans, and to perform administrative duties for the Trust,” said spokeswoman Elise Wilkinson in e-mail.
“The Special Servicer (LNR Partners) makes decisions about the status of the loans and/or properties and the court-appointed Receiver is responsible for day-to-day maintenance,” Wilkinson said. “All questions related to the upkeep of the properties should be addressed to those parties.”
LNR declined to comment on the case.
A hearing is scheduled for the legal motion for June 12, Jantarasami said, unless there’s a settlement. If the action is successful, it could set a precedent for other buildings that suffered a similar fate.
For Milbank’s tenants, any solution would be relief.
“I hope that the city itself will step in and see that the repairs are done,” Hill-Banks said.
Public and Community Meetings
May 20, 2010
By Norwood News
• The Croton Filtration Monitoring Committee will meet on Thursday, May 20, at 7 p.m. at the DEP’s community office, 3660 Jerome Ave.
• The Bedford Mosholu Community Association will meet at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 2, at 400 E. Mosholu Parkway S. Apt. B1 (Lobby Floor).
• 52nd Precinct Community Council Meeting will be on May 27 at 7 p.m. at Scott Towers Housing Corporation located at 3400 Paul Ave. Guest speaker will be Ms. Diane Brown, Sexual Assault Treatment Program.
• For all Community Board 7 committee meetings, call (718) 933-5650 or visit www.bronxcb7.info/calendar.
Assembly Wants Action On Housing Bills
May 20, 2010
By Alex Gibbons
It’s an annual tradition in Albany as old as the budget being late. First, the Assembly passes a raft of housing bills aimed at strengthening New York’s rent laws and protecting tenant rights. Then the Senate ignores them and the bills die before ever getting out of the chamber’s housing committee.
In years past, the overwhelmingly Democratic Assembly could blame Republicans. But last year, for the first time in more than 40 years, Democrats took control of the state senate. Assembly members and housing advocates thought there would finally be some action on these housing bills.
But with Senate Majority Leader Pedro Espada, Jr. in charge of the housing committee, it hasn’t worked out exactly how they planned.
Last year, Espada flip-flopped numerous times on his support for several housing bills passed by the Assembly. In the end, he didn’t address any of them.
This year, Espada has pushed an alternative bill he says will preserve hundreds of thousands of affordable housing units, but that advocates say is completely unrealistic and basically a gift to the city’s wealthiest landlords. Vito Lopez, the head of the Assembly’s housing committee, told the Village Voice that the bill was “not something I find acceptable.”
Still, Espada continues to defend the bill, saying in an e-mail, that his rent freeze bill would “keep money in the pockets of 600,000 tenants.”
Espada said he is also working on creating a “Housing Investment Fund with a dedicated revenue stream for affordable housing rehabilitation, preservation and construction capital projects.”
Meanwhile, the other pro-tenant bills — like repealing vacancy decontrol of apartments renting for more than $2,000 a month — continue to languish.
“Tenants need strong laws in place that protect their rights and ensure they have affordable, safe places to live,” said Assemblyman Jeff Dinowitz in a statement announcing his chamber’s passage of the housing bills. “Without rent regulation — which prevents rapidly rising housing costs — working families would not be able to afford living in New York City.”
You can tell Dinowitz is getting a little exasperated.
“Last year, the senate did not pass any of these pro-tenant bills even with a Democratic majority for the first time in 40 years,” he said in the release. “I hope the senate finally acts this year.”
Though the bills are not his top priorities, Espada said, “We have been in very productive discussion on several of the bills that the Assembly has passed, and are hopeful of reaching a consensus on some of these bills.”
Assembly Wants Action On Housing Bills
May 20, 2010
By Alex Kratz
It’s an annual tradition in Albany as old as the budget being late. First, the Assembly passes a raft of housing bills aimed at strengthening New York’s rent laws and protecting tenant rights. Then the Senate ignores them and the bills die before ever getting out of the chamber’s housing committee.
In years past, the overwhelmingly Democratic Assembly could blame Republicans. But last year, for the first time in more than 40 years, Democrats took control of the state senate. Assembly members and housing advocates thought there would finally be some action on these housing bills.
But with Senate Majority Leader Pedro Espada, Jr. in charge of the housing committee, it hasn’t worked out exactly how they planned.
Last year, Espada flip-flopped numerous times on his support for several housing bills passed by the Assembly. In the end, he didn’t address any of them.
This year, Espada has pushed an alternative bill he says will preserve hundreds of thousands of affordable housing units, but that advocates say is completely unrealistic and basically a gift to the city’s wealthiest landlords. Vito Lopez, the head of the Assembly’s housing committee, told the Village Voice that the bill was “not something I find acceptable.”
Still, Espada continues to defend the bill, saying in an e-mail, that his rent freeze bill would “keep money in the pockets of 600,000 tenants.”
Espada said he is also working on creating a “Housing Investment Fund with a dedicated revenue stream for affordable housing rehabilitation, preservation and construction capital projects.”
Meanwhile, the other pro-tenant bills — like repealing vacancy decontrol of apartments renting for more than $2,000 a month — continue to languish.
“Tenants need strong laws in place that protect their rights and ensure they have affordable, safe places to live,” said Assemblyman Jeff Dinowitz in a statement announcing his chamber’s passage of the housing bills. “Without rent regulation — which prevents rapidly rising housing costs — working families would not be able to afford living in New York City.”
You can tell Dinowitz is getting a little exasperated.
“Last year, the senate did not pass any of these pro-tenant bills even with a Democratic majority for the first time in 40 years,” he said in the release. “I hope the senate finally acts this year.”
Though the bills are not his top priorities, Espada said, “We have been in very productive discussion on several of the bills that the Assembly has passed, and are hopeful of reaching a consensus on some of these bills.”
Gustavo Rivera Launches Campaign on Web
May 20, 2010
By Jeanmarie Evelly
While Fernando Tirado went the traditional route of holding a press conference to announce his candidacy, Gustavo Rivera kicked off his campaign for the 33rd District Senate seat mostly on the internet.
Last week, Rivera, whose most recent gig was in the office of New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand as an outreach director, went viral, launching a website — www.gustavoforstatesenate.com — posting videos on a Vimeo account (the youtube.com rival) and starting a Flickr photostream.
He’s the fourth person challenging embattled State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr. Also in the running are Community Board 7 District Manager Tirado, lawyer and Community Board 8 member Daniel Padernacht, and community activist Desiree Pilgrim-Hunter.
Born in Puerto Rico, Rivera has lived in New York since 1998 and said he currently resides in Kingsbridge Heights. It was a commitment to public service that prompted his decision to run, he said.
“What we’re talking about is accountability, transparency,” Rivera said in a phone interview. “However long Mr. Espada has been in government, he has not been as committed to public service as he needs to be. It’s about restoring trust in government. It’s about making sure we can have somebody in government who is going to be responsive to the needs of the citizens.”
Rivera recently wrapped up his job at Gillibrand’s office, where he’d worked since last May, to focus on his campaign, he said.
In the past, Rivera (no relation to the Rivera Bronx political clan of Jose, Joel and Naomi) campaigned for a number of other politicians, including Bronx politicians such Assemblyman Jose M. Serrano, Council member Melissa Mark-Viverito and former borough president Freddy Ferrer. He also worked for now-President Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign in Illinois.
In a statement, Mark-Viverito said she was getting behind Rivera: “Gustavo has a proven track record of electing progressive candidates, forging coalitions to ensure accountability in law making, and most importantly is in touch with the voters throughout the Bronx, especially in the 33rd District.”
He’s also garnered support from Council Members Annabel Palma (Bronx) and Jumaane D. Williams (Brooklyn), according to a press release.
Libraries Fight Biggest Cut in History
May 20, 2010
By Dardinia Joseph
The recently proposed $37 million cut on the New York Public Library, which would be the highest cut in city history, according to Library President and CEO Paul LeClerc, could have devastating effects to libraries in the Bronx.
While it remains unclear exactly which libraries will be affected, the Library — which offers free services at 90 locations in the Bronx, Staten Island and Manhattan — could be forced to cut back to being open an average of four days a week, more than one in four library jobs would be eliminated and at least 10 locations would have to be closed.
The severity of these cuts has local libraries scrambling to fight back. At the Mosholu branch at 285 E. 205th St., which has been open for 55 years, fliers alerting patrons of the possible impact of the cuts are spread on a table near the front entrance.
Just in the Central Bronx libraries, one flier says the proposal would result in 800,000 fewer visits and 450,000 fewer materials circulated each year.
The onsite manager at Mosholu, Jimmie Pate, is staying somewhat optimistic about the situation. “Regardless of the $37 million cutback, this branch will not close,” he said. “If anything, we could lose hours and staff workers.”
Pate said the library began to organize a letter writing campaign and distribute informational fliers on May10. But they had an idea something like this might be possible after speaking out against possible cuts at the state level in Albany earlier in the year, he said.
Before they begin to protest the cuts more vigorously, Pate said they are asking people to write letters opposing the cuts to the mayor and their elected officials.
“The [City] Council has always tried to help the library funding and will try to put money back,” said Councilman Oliver Koppell, who represents the area that contains the Mosholu branch. “I do not have an amount right now, but the library is always high on the list of things to discuss before we meet with the mayor [to negotiate the budget].”
Niccole Crespo, who is a junior at Hunter College, studies in the Mosholu library daily. “A lot of students are going to miss out,” she said. “People come here to do research work and this is like an after school program to most kids.
What about the people without computers in their home?”
A mother named Joanne (she declined to give her last name), said her son uses the library occasionally.
“Anything that has to do with educating our youth and society should not have any cutbacks,” she said. “It keeps them safe and educated. I think it’s a travesty that they would even want to think about it.”
“There has been a tremendous increase in usage and the library is very important to the community,” Koppell said. “The council will try to put money back.”
According to Pate, they expect the budget to be finalized sometime from June 6 to 30.
CB7 District Manager Joins Crowded Senate Race
May 20, 2010
By James Fergusson and Alex Kratz
On Monday, Fernando Tirado, Community Board 7’s district manager, formally announced his decision to run for State Senate in the 33rd Senate District. In doing so, Tirado joins a crowded field that now includes four Democratic contenders trying to unseat the district’s current senator, Pedro Espada, Jr., in the September primary.
Standing next to the World War I monument on Mosholu Parkway in front of his family and 20 or so friends and neighbors (including three or four CB7 board members), Tirado gave a brief speech. While short on specifics as to what he would do if elected, the speech was high on hope for a better tomorrow.
“For too long we’ve had to endure the frustration of a government that does not work for the people,” said Tirado, who read from a prepared speech. “I tell you today that it’s not only time for a change, it’s time to move forward from the political culture of inaction that has paralyzed Albany for too long.”
Speaking afterwards, he said he would continue as district manager until the end of the petitioning process in July, and that, if he made it onto the ballot, he would then have to decide what to do next. He added, “As you get closer to the primary, I am going to ask [the Board] for some time so that I can concentrate on the campaign.”
With roughly four months until the Democratic primary in September, there are now four candidates vying for Espada’s seat: Tirado, activist Desiree Pilgrim-Hunter, Gustavo Rivera (see page 2), a former outreach coordinator for U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and lawyer and Community Board 8 member Daniel Padernacht.
Tirado has a BA in Political Science and worked for the city’s Health Department for years before becoming district manager of Community Board 7 (Norwood, Bedford Park, Fordham and University Heights) in 2008. He moved to Bedford Park in 2006 and joined the community board as a member before being plucked to replace longtime district manager Rita Kessler.
Under Tirado’s watch, the board has modernized — launching a new website, sending out e-mail alerts and reaching out through other social media outlets like Facebook. (He also put a huge new flat screen in the board’s meeting room.) He helped guide the board through the strenuous land use review process for the Kingsbridge Armory redevelopment plan last summer. (The board voted for the plan to make the Armory a shopping mall, with conditions that were never met. The plan died in the City Council.)
As district manager, he has also shepherded the board’s work with the Department of City Planning to rezone Webster Avenue and surrounding neighborhoods.
Without going into detail, Tirado said he would “champion fiscal responsibility and economic development for the state, hold government and taxpayer subsidized organizations accountable to the people.”
As for his opponents or Espada, who is facing civil corruption and fraud charges from the state attorney general, Tirado declined to offer any opinion. “I’m not going to comment on any candidate including the current senator,” he said. “I want people to judge me for me and what I can bring to the table.”
Espada wasn’t in attendance at the announcement, but two of his staffers kept an eye on proceedings from the other side of the street.
Out & About
May 6, 2010
By Judy Noy
Onstage
Lehman College, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., continues to offer free music concerts throughout May. For a schedule and detailed information, call (718) 960-8247/8715.
The Bronx Opera Company presents Don Pasquale, comic opera, sung in English, performed at Lehman College’s Lovinger Theatre, 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., May 7 and 8 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 to $30 with discounts for students, seniors and children. For more information or tickets, call (800) 838-3006 or visit www.bronxopera.org or www.brownpapertickets.com/event/98900.
The Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. E., presents Concierto de Trios, featuring bolero music, May 8 at 8 p.m. (tickets are $20 to $45); and Latin Passion, featuring tango, gauchos, salsa, and more, May 15 at 8 p.m. (tickets are $25 to $35; $10 for ages 12 and under). For more information, call (718) 960-8833.
Christ Church Riverdale, located on West 252nd Street and Henry Hudson Parkway East, hosts Favorite Opera Choruses, classical music performed by the Riverdale Choral Society, May 8 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15; $13/with Cultural Card. For more information, call (718) 543-2219 or visit www.riverdalechoral.org.
The Albert Einstein Symphony Orchestra presents its season finale featuring classical music, May 16 at 3 p.m., in the Robbins Auditorium, Forchheimer Building of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Ave. Contributions are suggested. For more information, visit einsteinorch.tripod.com.
The Bronx Arts Ensemble presents Beauty and the Beast, May 9 at 1 and 3 p.m., in the New York Botanical Garden’s Ross Lecture Hall. For more information, call (718) 601-7399.
The Bronx Library Center, at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, hosts Grupo Caribe in Concert, May 8 at 2:30 p.m.; and Music and Dance From Hawaii and Other Polynesian Islands, by Dance Aloha, May 15 at 2:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.
The Mosholu Library, at 285 E. 205th St., hosts Unsinkable Women: Stories and Songs From the Titanic, May 8 at 2 p.m. for the entire family; and Dorothy in the Land of Oz, for children, May 11 at 4 p.m. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.
The Bronx Museum, located at 1040 Grand Concourse (at 165th Street), presents First Fridays! And the Beat Goes On!, featuring jazz pianist Dr. Valerie Capers, May 7 from 6 to 10 p.m., free, in the South Building, lower gallery. For more information, call (718) 681-6000.
The Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance (BAAD!), located at 841 Barretto St., presents its Boogie Down Dance Series 2010 from May 7 to 23 featuring a variety of shows. For a complete schedule, call (718) 842-5223 or visit bronxacademyofartsanddance.org.
The Bronx Hoot Reunion concert (featuring members of the famous Hunter College Hoots of the early’60s), for the benefit of the Bronx River Alliance, will be held at Lehman College’s Lovinger Theater, 250 Bedford Pk Blvd. W., on May 21 at 8 p.m. Cost is $35 or two for $40. For tickets or more information, call (718) 430-4613 or visit bronxhoot.org.
Events
The Woodlawn Cemetery, located at the corner of Bainbridge and Jerome avenues, presents Woodlawn in Bloom, a spring blossom walking tour led by author Edward Sibley Barnard, May 16. Meet at the Jerome Avenue entrance at 2 p.m. Fee: $10; $5/seniors/students; free for ages under 6. Woodlawn also offers free End of Life Planning Seminar, featuring family service counselors discussing arrangements for final resting places, May 19 at 7 p.m. in the Woolworth Chapel. For more information, call (718) 920-1470 for the tour and (718) 920-1463 ext. 252 for the seminar.
The public is invited to an open house bake-off at the COVE community center, located at 3418 Gates Place, on May 6. Arrive at 7:30 p.m. with your best homemade specialty. Judging begins at 8 p.m. Enjoy great food, music, games, and meet your neighbors. For more information, call (718) 405-1312.
Wave Hill, located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, offers two family art projects: Design a Bouquet for Mother’s Day, May 8 and 9, and Draw, Draw, Draw, using novel materials and methods, May 16; both in the Kerlin Learning Center from 1 to 4 p.m. The Big Draw at Wave Hill, features a variety of drawing activities for all ages, free, and grounds admission is free until noon, on May 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, call (718) 549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.
The Bronx Writers Center and Bronx Council on the Arts present “To the Other Side,” a film in Spanish with English subtitles about a young man in Mexico who must decide between trafficking drugs or illegally crossing the border into the United States, May 12 from 7 to 9 p.m., at the Bruckner Bar & Grill, 1 Bruckner Blvd., followed by Q&A. For more information, call (718) 931-9500 ext. 21 or (718) 665-2001.
Bronx Council on the Arts’ Bronx WritersCorps will host “Floetry” – Poetry in Motion Preliminary Slam on May 13 at 5 p.m. at the Owen Dolen Recreational Center, 2551 Westchester Ave. This is the 14th Annual Bronx WritersCorp Poetry Slam, in which the borough’s most talented teen poets compete to become the best slam team in the Bronx. Earl Majette will host the preliminaries, and the finals will be held on May 20. The slam is open to the public and admission is free. For more information, call (718) 931-9500 ext. 33.
Exhibits
The Museum of Bronx History, located at 3266 Bainbridge Ave. (at 208th Street), presents Parkchester: City Within a City, through Oct. 3. For more information, call the Bronx County Historical Society at (718) 881-8900.
The New York Botanical Garden hosts the following events: Emily Dickinson’s Garden: The Poetry of Flowers, through June 13; Antique Garden Furniture Show and Sale, May 7 to 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., in a tent outside the Haupt Conservatory (preview party will be held on May 6 from 6 to 8 p.m.); Auricula Theatre on Display, an arrangement of tiered staging used to showcase these rare and choice primroses when they are in flower, through May 9; and Endangered Plants Here and Around the World, a traveling exhibition on display in the Ross Gallery May 6 through July 25 (featured artists will teach botanical art and illustration courses during this period). Additional programs include Children’s Poetry Garden, through June 13 in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden; Dig, Plant, Grow! through June in the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden; Mother’s Day Celebrations, May 8 and 9 featuring a variety of Garden activities; and Bronx Day, May 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Clay Family Picnic Pavilions, featuring musical entertainment, fun events for the entire family and health, finance and education resource information kiosks (send a stamped, self-addressed envelope, with number of tickets requested, to receive required advance tickets; six maximum), followed by A Season in Poetry, featuring poets reading from their works, 3 p.m. in the Jane Watson Irwin Perennial Garden. For more information and class and program schedules, call (718) 817-8700.
The Bronx River Art Center, located at 1087 E. Tremont Ave. is presenting Dialects IV, through May 29. For more information, visit www.nyc.gov/urbanart.
The Lehman College Art Gallery, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., will hold a fund-raising exhibition in honor of its 25th anniversary, May 11 through June 4. The opening reception on May 11 is from 4 to 8 p.m. Small works by friends and artists who have exhibited at the Gallery over the past 25 years will be exhibited, and are priced at $500 or less. All proceeds will be split between the Gallery and the artist. For more information, call (718) 960-8731.
Library Events
The Bronx Library Center, at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, presents the following programs for preschoolers and school-aged children: Preschool Story Time, May 6, 13 and 20 at 11 a.m.; and films, May 12 and 19 at 4 p.m. Adults can attend History of the Bronx, a lecture by Bronx historian Lloyd Ultan, May 17 at 6 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.
The Mosholu Library, at 285 E. 205th St., hosts Toddler Story Time, May 6 at 10:30 a.m.; and Preschool Story Time, May 13 at 10:30 a.m., both for children; and Knitting Circle, May 6, 13 and 20 at 3 p.m. for adults. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.
The Jerome Park Library, at 118 Eames Place, presents Crafternoons, May 6, 13 and 20 at 4 p.m. for teens and young adults; and films, May 11 at 4 p.m. and Toddler Story Time, May 16 at 11 a.m.; both for children. For more information, call (718) 549-5200.
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY TO ALL OUR MOM READERS!
NOTE: Items for consideration may be mailed to our office or sent to norwoodnews@norwoodnews.org, and should be received by May 10 for the next publication date of May 20.
Neighborhood Notes
May 6, 2010
By Norwood News
Free Personal Finance Course
University Neighborhood Housing Program and Credit Where Credit is Due will offer a Personal Finance Course from May 5 though June 2, Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m., which include five classes covering credit, debt management, budgeting, etc. All attendees will receive free credit report and score. Those who complete the course also receive a certificate which can be used to open a free savings account. Future courses will be held in July and September in either English or Spanish. Space is limited. For more information, call (718) 933-2539.
MetroCard Vans
MetroCard vans will be making stops at Fordham Plaza from 2:30 to 4 p.m.; Fordham Road and the Grand Concourse from noon to 2 p.m.; and Van Cortlandt Village, 3880 Sedgwick Ave. from 9:30 to 11 a.m., all on May 14 and 28; and at Scott Towers, 3400 Paul Ave. from 1 to 3 p.m. on May 24. Seniors with photo ID may apply for reduced fare cards and others may add value or purchase cards. For more information, call (212) METROCARD or visit www.mta.info.
BCC Education Fair
Continuing and Professional Studies at Bronx Community College is holding an Education Fair on Saturday, May 8 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Meister Hall lobby located at 2155 University Ave. (at West 181st Street). For more information, call (718) 289-5170.
Autism Study Recruitment
The Children’s Research Unit at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University is recruiting participants for a study that examines whether multisensory integration is impaired in people with autism. The researchers are currently recruiting both children and adults who have been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Compensation of $12.00 per hour is provided. For more information, call (718) 862-1821.
Lehman Open-House
Lehman College’s Continuing Education “More than a camp–Kidz at Lehman” July and August programs will hold an open house on Thursday, May 20 at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, June 5 at 10 a.m. in Carman Hall, Room 129. Learn about half-day, full-day, and pre-college programs for kids. For more information or a catalog of all adult and children classes, call (718) 960-8512 or visit www.lehman.edu/ce.
Join Local Food Co-op
The Norwood Food Co-op CSA is accepting members for the 2010 summer share. Members receive a share of the weekly organic vegetable harvest from Norwich Meadows Farm, usually five to eight different items per week. Past seasons have included deliveries of tomatoes, lettuce, squash, peppers, beans, beets, carrots, onions, and potatoes. Members can also order additional special items for a cost, like fruit, cheese, milk, eggs, and more. The season lasts from mid-June to early November; single shares, which feed two to three people per week, cost $315. Weekly pickup takes place in Norwood at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 302 E. 206th St. Food stamps/EBT are accepted. For more information, visit www.norwoodfoodcoop.org or call (718) 514-3305.
Support Group for the Heart
Montefiore Medical Center is organizing the first support groups for patients with heart assisting devices in the New York metropolitan area. For more information, call (718) 920-8279.
Fordham Goes Green
On May 15, the Fordham Road Business Improvement District (BID) will hold the Third Annual Fordham Go Green Walk from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. starting at 2500 Creston Ave. near East Fordham Road, continuing to Jerome Avenue, to East Kingsbridge Road, and ending at Poe Park, where food, music, health screenings and children’s activities will be provided. For more information or to RSVP, call (718) 562-2104.
Community Health Fair
The Timothy Dwight School, PS 33, will be holding its 18th Annual Community Health Fair on Saturday, May 15, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It will be held in the schoolyard located at 2424 Jerome Ave. There will be face painting, arts and crafts, sports activities, dance contests, free giveaways, and more. For more information, call (718) 584-3922, (718) 289-5383, or (212) 620-5462 ext. 238.
Walk for Health
Every Wednesday, join The Mosholu Preservation Corporation in walking for your health. Meet at 3400 Reservoir Oval East for either Session 1 at 12:15 p.m. or for Session 2 at 1:15 p.m. For more information, call Linel Salcedo at (718) 324-4466 or by e-mail at intern3@mpcbronx.org.
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.
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.
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/.
MMCC Youth Centers
Mosholu Montefiore Community Center continues to keep open their free Beacon Youth Centers throughout the Bronx for teens in 7th to 12th grades, Monday through Friday nights and Saturdays. Beacon offers sports, clubs, classes in the arts, drama, dance, help with schoolwork, groups, and much more.
For Mosholu Beacon at PS 8 in Bedford Park on Briggs Avenue near Mosholu Parkway, call Director Andre Clark at (718) 329-0595.
For Reservoir Beacon at PS 86 by the Kingsbridge Armory, 2756 Reservoir Ave., call Director Bernie Hernandez at (718) 563-7410.
For Willamsbridge Beacon at MS 113 at 3710 Barnes Ave., call Director Jackie Valez-Gutierrez at (718) 654-5881.
For Seton Falls Beacon at MS 142 at 3750 Baychester Ave., call Director Damont Singletary at (718) 798-6670.
Kindergarten Registration
PS/MS 20, located at 3050 Webster Ave., 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 that 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.
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.
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 to receive 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.
Support Group for Patients
Montefiore Medical Center will be organizing the first support group in the New York Metropolitan area for patients with heart assist devices. The first meeting will be held on May 3, 2010 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Conference room of the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore located on 3415 Bainbridge Avenue. For more information, call (718) 920-8279.
Lehman College Open House
The Adult Degree Program of Lehman College will be holding an Open House on Saturday, April 24, at 12:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. this program allows those 25 years of age and older to earn a Bachelor’s degree with flexible scheduling, individualized guidance, college credit and other special features. For more information, call (718) 960-8666.
Summer Reading 2010
The New York Public Library will be launching this year’s Summer Reading Program on Thursday, June 10, 2010.The Library will present a free outdoor kick-off celebration including games, appearances by special guests, and more on the morning of June 10, 2010 at 11:00 a.m.
MertoCard Bus/Vans
MetroCard buses and vans will make scheduled stops in the Bronx during the month of May 2010. They will be making a stop on May 14, 2010 at Fordham Plaza 2:30 – 4:00 pm, Fordham Rd and Grand Concourse 12:00 – 2:00 pm, Van Cortland Village 3880 Sedgwick Avenue, and May 24, 2010 at Scott Towers 3400 Paul Avenue. For more information or to find out other locations with scheduled MetroCard bus/van stops, please visit the MTA website, www.mta.info, or call (212) METROCARD.
Education Fair
Continuing and Professional Studies at Bronx Community College is holding an Education Fair on Saturday May 8, 2010 from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm in the Meister Hall Lobby on the BCC campus, located at 2155 University Avenue. For more information regarding this event, feel free to call (718) 289-5170.
Autism Study Recruitment Announcement
The Children’s Research units at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University are currently recruiting participants for a study that examines whether multisensory integration is impaired in people with autism. The researchers are currently recruiting both children and adults who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Compensation of $12.00 per hour is provided. Please call (718) 862-1821 if interested or to find out more about the study.
Open-House
an open house to obtain guidance for the Lehman College Continuing Education “More than a camp-Kidz at Lehman” July and August programs will be held on Thursday May 20, 2010 at 6:30 pm in Carman Hall, Room 129. For more information or a catalog of all adult and children classes, call (718) 960-8512 or visit www.lehman.edu/ce.
TIGER Day Makes Reading Fun
May 6, 2010
By Anelgi Solis
As you walk on King’s College Place off of Gun Hill Road approaching PS 94, the sound of children’s laughter fills your ears. It’s the sound of the school’s annual TIGER Day.
For the past five years parent coordinator Miriam Seminario and teacher Joanne Clarke-Condon have organized TIGER (Together In Getting Everyone Reading) Day as a way to get second graders excited about reading.
“I love it,” said Benny Rivera, a parent volunteer. “I took the day off for it. This is the first year my kids attend this school and they love it. I had to help out.”
Each year, Clarke-Condon creates a reading challenge for the students. The students had a one-month deadline to complete four books on different subjects and genres: space exploration, a biography, going green and the geography of planet Earth. They also had to create a poem on recycling.
In order to win the challenge, students — with research help from the school library, the Mosholu Public Library and parents — had to create a final project on one topic and present it to the school. The projects were judged on various elements, from content and organization to originality.
“This year it seems like the children really understood the assignments and really devoted themselves to it,” said Mary De La Cruz, a library assistant. “It’s like the families really united and helped the children out.”
Six students won medals and trophies for their projects. The winners were Maimuna Hannan, Stephanie Morales, Miguel Diaz, Analayeska Rodriguez, Madina Monowara and Malik Hunter.
Seminario said she was especially happy with the turnout of parent volunteers, including a group of dedicated group of Bangladeshi parents. “They volunteer for everything, they are a great asset to our school,” said Seminario, who recently received an award for promoting community participation.
“This event is about how the school, parents and the community unite to show children how that they can read and have fun at the same time,” said Clarke-Condon. “Reading is fun!”
Prom Night Goes Hollywood
May 6, 2010
By Norwood News
The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore Medical Center held a “Hollywood Nights” prom theme for chronically ill teens this past Saturday. Ifeanyi Mba and Cecily Vargas (pictured, above, center) were announced King and Queen of the evening, while Gil Seda and Ashley Campos (pictured below, left side) were announced Prince and Princess of the evening.
The Norwood News’ Guide to Bronx Week
May 6, 2010
By Norwood News
This year, Bronx Week is in May rather than June. From May 12 to May 23 (yeah, it’s more like a week and a half), the borough highlights the best that it has to offer for natives and visitors alike. There are more than 100 events listed at BronxWeekEvents.com, but here’s a sampling of the main events. It all ends up with a parade and festival along Mosholu Parkway. Bronx Week is organized by the Bronx Tourism Council and the Bronx Borough President’s Office and is sponsored by Montefiore Medical Center, Health Plus, and many other businesses and Bronx institutions.
Wednesday, May 12
Kickoff Press Conference: Join Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer at Deegan Rock Park on the Grand Concourse and East 138th Street at 11 a.m. as they kick-start Bronx Week 2010 by celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Madison Avenue Bridge. The event will feature salsa and merengue music by Bronx and Manhattan marching bands, as well as important announcements about Bronx Week 2010.
Thursday, May 13
Bronx Homeowners Forum: A panel of experts, organized by Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. and Senator Jeff Klein, will provide Bronx homeowners with legal advice regarding mortgages and homeownership. One-on-one discussions with counselors will also be available. The event will take place from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Fordham University’s McGinley Center, 557 E. Fordham Rd. For more information, call (718) 590-8088.
Friday, May 14
12th Annual Bronx Bankers Breakfast: The Business Initiative Corporation of New York, and the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation, will be sponsoring the largest networking event in the Bronx, bringing brokers, local business owners, and leaders from top financial institutions to the Villa Barone Manor at 737 Throggs Neck Expressway. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. Registration is $50.00 in advance and $60.00 at the door. RSVP at (718) 590-4588
Saturday, May 15
Bronx Day at the New York Botanical Garden: Pack a lunch and join Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. for the official start of Bronx Week 2010 at the New York Botanical Garden, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. To get your free required tickets, send your request to: Elizabeth Figueroa, Director of Community Relations, New York Botanical Garden, Bronx, NY 10458 (limit 6 tickets).
Sunday, May 16
Bronx Veterans Appreciation Day: Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. and the Bronx Veterans Advisory Council will be hosting a special salute to Bronx veterans who have served in the armed forces. For more information, call Tom Lucania at (718) 590-6005
Monday, May 17
DiVA Spa: This year’s DiVA Spa will provide unisex service to both men and women. Haircuts and manicures will be available, as well as important information about domestic violence and abusive relationships. Learn how to get help or how to help a friend. The event starts at noon at the Bronx County Building on the Grand Concourse and East 161st Street.
Green Roofs Tour: Did you know the Bronx has more green roofs than any other borough? Come see several examples and learn about the technology that is transforming the Boogie Down. Meet at the BOEDC reception desk at the Bronx County Building, Room 123 at 10 a.m. Lunch is provided. To reserve a free seat, call Kate Shackford, (718) 590-3498.
Tuesday, May 18
How to Market your Business with Facebook, Twitter, & More: Bring your company to the next level of online marketing. Jennifer Abernethy, author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Social Media Marketing will lead a free workshop that will teach the tricks of the trade behind social media. Bring your laptop, iPad, or Blackberry. The event is at the Bronx Zoo’s Schiff Family Great Hall, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Enter at the Southern Boulevard Gate. Register by calling (718) 590-6032.
Franchise Fair: Want to open a franchise? Go to the Veterans Memorial Hall at the Bronx County Building on Grand Concourse and 161st Street at 5:30 p.m. to learn all the information you need. For more information, call (718) 590-6415.
On Tuesday, May 18 at 6:30pm Monroe College Online will host a special Bronx Week event to demonstrate how adult students can earn a college degree while maintaining family and employment responsibilities. The event, which will take place in the Monroe College Annex at 2426 Jerome Avenue (one block south of Fordham Road on the east side of the street), will feature a demonstration of the course management system that provides 24/7 access to classes, faculty, and other students. For more information or to reserve a seat, call 800-55-MONROE and ask for Sharon Albert.
Wednesday, May 19
Trolley Tour of the Bronx: Bronx Historian Professor Lloyd Ultan will lead a trolley tour through some of the borough’s historic districts and neighborhoods. Tours will begin at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Seating is limited. To register, call (718) 590-3047.
Bronx Premiere of Grandmother to Grandmother: New York to Tanzania: Come see the award-winning documentary that tells the story of two grandmothers, one who lives in the Bronx, and one who lives in Tanzania, who are struggling to raise their grandchildren. A Q&A will follow the screening. The film will start at 9:30 a.m. at the Concourse Multiplex Cinemas on East 161st Street and Sheridan Avenue. To reserve a seat, call (718) 590-4412.
Zumba on the Concourse Lunchtime Concert: Check out this live Zumba performance at the Bronx Country Building, 851 Grand Concourse at East 161st Street. The show starts at noon.
Opening Night Reception: Riverdale Art Association Exhibit: The Riverdale Art Association will celebrate its 10th anniversary at the Borough President’s Art Gallery at the Bronx County Building, 851 Grand Concourse, Suite 301, at 6 p.m. The reception will feature the work of Bronx artists. For more information, call (718) 590-3989.
Thursday, May 20
Big Band Brunch: Seniors are invited to celebrate Bronx Week on the dance floor. Music will be provided by DJ Carol. For more information, time, and location, call (718) 590-6248.
The Fourth “R”: Young Bronxites can learn important lessons about relationships in their lives at this program presented by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The event is at MS 15, 2195 Andrews Ave. at 11 a.m. Parents, grandparents, and caregivers are welcome.
Friday, May 21
Bronx Bike to Work Day: Join Bronx Borough President and Transportation Alternatives in the National Bike to Work Day. A short ride down the Grand Concourse will emphasize the environmental and health benefits of biking. Afterwards, join Diaz, Jr. for a free breakfast at Lou Gehrig Plaza. Meet at Poe Cottage on the Grand Concourse and Kingsbridge Road at 7 a.m. For more information, call (718) 590-8310.
Bronx Week Health Fair: The Bronx Borough President’s Office and Bronx Health Links are hosting this huge health fair, which features on-site screenings and information on wellness, fitness, and prevention. The event takes place at the Bronx County Building Rotunda and starts at 10 a.m. For more information, call (718) 537-5268.
Saturday, May 22
The Bronx Ball: The Bronx Tourism Council hosts its fund-raiser gala, The Bronx Ball, under a tent at Orchard Beach from 6 to 11 p.m. Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. leads a welcome-home tribute to Bronx-born celebrities on the eve of their induction to the Bronx Walk of Fame.
Environmental Day:?Come to River Park on Boston Road and East 180th Street at 10 a.m. to learn the important part trees and other fauna play in our ecosystem. Bring your old clothes to be recycled and get your face painted while you’re at it. First 300 guests will get free hot dogs!
Sunday, May 23
Bronx Volunteer Recognition Day Ceremony: Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. will honor the young people who participate in the New York Police Department Law Enforcement Explorer program. The event starts at 9:30 a.m. at the Bronx County Building, 851 Grand Concourse at East 161st Street.
Bronx Walk of Fame: Come see Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. induct some famous Bronxites into the Bronx Walk of Fame on the Grand Concourse at 161st Street. The event begins at 11 a.m.
Bronx Week Parade: Mosholu Parkway will host this year’s Bronx Week Parade. Thousands of marchers, including bands, students, athletes, and community groups, will celebrate the Bronx in this year’s parade, which salutes Bronx kids. The parade begins at noon at Mosholu Parkway and Bainbridge Avenue.
Bronx Week Food & Arts Festival: After the parade, this festival will feature Bronx artists, restaurant samples, vendor booths, games, and a health pavilion with free screenings. The event starts at noon on Mosholu Parkway.
Problems at Oval
May 6, 2010
By None
I am hoping we can get some help from the Norwood News on the following topic. I have tried to contact the Parks Department regarding the stall of work on the Oval Park. Basically, the southern part of the park was demolished and there has been no sign of reconstruction beginning any time soon. The Parks Department also closed the bathroom/recreation building with no previous notice being given to the users of the park. The garbage is not being picked up on a regular basis. There is no sign of any security at any time at all. There are constant disagreements on the use of the track and field. Everyone wants to have an enjoyable visit at our neighborhood park, but lately it is becoming a stressful experience for the families who frequent the Oval Park. Perhaps the Norwood News can get some updated information for us in the Norwood area regarding our park’s future. Thank you.
Annette Melendez
The Norwood News forwarded Ms. Melendez’s letter to this Parks Department and spokesperson Jesslyn Moser provided this response:
The $7 million reconstruction of the playground, funded by Croton mitigation funds, is under way. The project includes new play equipment, spray shower, basketball courts and plantings. Work is ongoing and includes installing new drainage structures, and plumbing for the spray shower at the playground. The project is expected to be complete by January 2011.
The $3.2 million renovation of the recreation building, also funded by Croton mitigation funds, is also under way. The project will improve the building’s exterior with new stone and roof work, as well as upgrade the restroom and lower level of the building with ADA compliance. A ramp leading to the lower level will increase accessibility. Work is ongoing and currently we are installing wooden tree guards outside the building. The project is expected to be completed by June 2011. We expect to install temporary toilets later this spring.
Public signage indicating the building’s closure was posted in the park last October. Garbage is picked up daily, and we will increase monitoring the park’s cleanliness. NYPD ensures that parks are safe. Parks Enforcement Patrol officers provide additional uniformed presence and enforce Parks rules and regulations. Running tracks in parks are open to public use and we rely on users to cooperate in a responsible manner.
Student MetroCards a Ticket to Education
May 6, 2010
By None
By Samantha Velez
The only gateway to success is education. Go to school. Learn. Be somebody. How can the youth of New York City become successful when their only ride to education has been taken away? As a student, I am enraged by the proposal to cut student MetroCards.
I have seen how this issue affects all students, many who cannot afford the daily transportation costs, students who have to travel from borough to borough just to get to school, and students just like me that have to work extra hard because of living conditions.
Like many students, I live in a single parent household with multiple siblings. My mother has to work hard just to send us to school. Sometimes she has to choose whether to pay our tuition or pay one of the bills. It’s not fair that now she has to worry about paying our bus fares to get to school. What happens when I can no longer go to school?
What happens to all the students that have to move from their current schools to zoned schools which are already overcrowded? What will become of the youth when they turn to the streets because they can no longer go to school, because that is what is going to happen. Once MetroCards are cut, students will be forced out of their comfort zone and placed into situations that will put them at the wrong place at the wrong time.
I don’t think that the MTA, city, or state really understands how this cut will affect everyone. When students no longer have MetroCards, parents have to work hard and make more money to send their children to school. Some may even have to take on a second or third job. When students can no longer go to school, who are the teachers going to teach? Are they going to teach empty desks? No. They are going to lose their jobs, and since there are no students to teach, schools might even be shut down. Please explain how we are supposed to be part of the Race to the Top when there are no students to participate. President
Obama says that by 2020 graduation rates will be at their highest levels. How is that possible when students are not even in school?
I understand that we are in a recession, but how is it that the MTA can find money to place into projects like the Fulton Transit Center and at the same time say there is no money for student MetroCards? What gives Mayor Bloomberg the right to call himself our educational leader when he could not care less about the students, shutting down schools and taking away our MetroCards? How can we trust Governor Paterson when he says that he will not allow the MetroCards to be cut, when he has not even bothered to work with us students? Open your eyes and realize that the youth must be a priority, and you must give us what we deserve – our right to education.
Samantha Velez, 17, is a leader in the youth organization Sistas and Brothas United (SBU) and a student at St. Barnabas High School.
Youth Theater Director Fighting for New Role: Survivor
May 6, 2010
By Alex Kratz
Carlos Laboy thought he was taking on a tough challenge when trying to raise funds this winter for his local youth theater program’s upcoming production of “Guys and Dolls.” But that fight now pales in comparison to the battle he now faces against a deadly disease.
In February, Laboy, who has enriched and emboldened hundreds of young lives as the longtime director of Mosholu Montefiore Community Center’s Stagekids theater program, was diagnosed with a form of cancer called Mantle cell lymphoma, a non-Hodgkins lymphoma.
The Bronx native recently completed his third round of chemotherapy treatment and doctors are optimistic about his chances. Laboy says he hopes to return to work by October.
“Anything can happen,” Laboy said from his hospital room at Montefiore Medical Center, where he was admitted on Sunday night after his fever broke 100. “I’m staying positive.”
The diagnosis and symptoms leading up to it “came out of nowhere,” Laboy said. Over the winter he had begun to feel some chest pain, so he quit smoking cigarettes. The chest pains continued. Then, one day in early February, he noticed a lump sticking out of his neck the size of a “baby’s fist.”
Montefiore doctors kept him under observation for four days, but at first they didn’t find anything cancerous. But two days after they let him go, he became very sick again and returned to Montefiore, where he would stay for the next six weeks. During that time, doctors performed another biopsy and identified the cancer.
After the diagnosis, Laboy immediately thought about his kids and his program’s upcoming shows. He asked when he could return to work. Doctors told him work was out of the question for at least eight months while he underwent treatment.
Although slightly frustrated, Laboy has remained upbeat.
“His attitude is marvelous,” said Geiddy Munoz, a former student of Laboy’s who became Laboy’s stage manager and is now assuming directing responsibilities in his absence. “I saw him when he was told and he was like a kid finding something new and playing with it.”
While Laboy isn’t attending rehearsals, he’s still shaping the upcoming production “Guys and Dolls,” which is scheduled for May 28 and 29 at the PS 8 auditorium in Bedford Park. During his extended hospital stay, students came by to ask for advice and tips. Plus, he’s constantly e-mailing his students with directions and ideas.
Munoz said she feels a certain amount of pressure trying to fill Laboy’s shoes. “I’m trying to live up to Carlos’ vision for what he wanted to do with the show.”
Besides Stagekids, Laboy also runs a youth broadcasting program through the community center called Teen 2 Teen where students learn how to produce their own news show.
That program is nearly running itself, Laboy said. “I have such a great group of kids.”
Laboy said his hospital room swelled with more than 100 cards from students and parents.
He also said he’s receiving a tremendous amount of support from his “family over there” at the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center. While Laboy waits for Medicaid to come through, the center paid for a month of his rent.
“Carlos is such a sweet person,” said the center’s executive director, Don Bluestone. “His work at the center has been his life. It’s probably why it’s been hard for him to deal with [being sick and away from work]. He’s really part of our family.”
A lifelong theater personality, Laboy laughed between coughs on Monday afternoon. He said he wants everyone to remember two things while he’s fighting the battle of his life: he’s staying positive and “the show must go on.”
Father Mike’ of St. Ann’s Dies at 61
May 6, 2010
By Anelgi Solis
On the stormy morning of May 3, the weather fit the mood of those attending Mass at St. Ann’s Church on Bainbridge Avenue in Norwood. Rev. Misael Sarita Bacleon, also known as Father Mike, had died on April 28. He was 61.
Bacleon was born on Nov. 2, 1948 in Cabadbaran Agusan Del Norte, Philippines. He was ordained in 1983 later came to New York and served in various churches before becoming a chaplain at Montefiore. He then came to St. Ann’s where he served for the last six years.
Bacleon was known in the parish as an avid line dance instructor and had a profound love for Broadway. “He led a life filled with love, joy and dance,” said Rev. Francis (Frank) P. Scanlon, St. Ann’s head pastor, during the service. “He danced through life.”
On Monday, Bacleon’s casket stood in the center aisle, steps away from the altar, covered by a white and gold sheet. The church smelled of incense and fresh flowers, which surrounded the church in beautiful arrangements of crosses and hearts in his honor.
Bishop Gerald T. Walsh and a large number of priests and monsignors gathered to hold the Mass and give their blessings and respects.
As the choir sang, parishioners, many of them Filipinos like Bacleon, bowed their heads in reverence.
Scanlon referred to Bacleon as “the good shepherd.”
“Father Mike never forgot where he came from, he knew he was one of us and was kind to all people,” he said.
“He was always happy, very loving. He loved everyone, he loved to dance and gave me great advice,” said Lourdes Hernandez, a parishioner, with tears in her eyes. “I will miss him very much.”
Bacleon was battling diabetes, causing the recent amputation of the toes on his right foot. According to Hernandez and other parishioners, it didn’t stop him from enjoying life.
As Mass came to a close, his casket was carried down the church steps. Tears began to flow, sobs and cries echoed within the church as some Filipino women cried, “Goodbye, Father.”
Outside, a white hearse awaited the casket. Parishioners waved a final goodbye before his body was driven away.
Bacleon will be laid to rest in California, where his sisters live. Only three weeks ago, they lost their other brother.
“He was the most wonderful priest,” said Kathy Tuohy. “Anywhere that they needed him he was there. He was always giving himself up. He was really the best.”
Ed. note: Funeral arrangements were handled by McKeon Funeral Home in Norwood. For more information, call 718-655-6464.
Gun Hill Congestion Study Calls for Community Input
May 6, 2010
By Alex Gibbons
On the heels of Gun Hill Road being named the Bronx’s most dangerous thoroughfare, the Department of Transportation is attempting to identify and address some of the issues facing the road through a new federally funded congestion mitigation program.
The program is in the midst of addressing problems on four similarly congested and dangerous roads around New York City.
In order to identify specific problems and determine how best to address them, the DOT solicited feedback from the community during a public input session at the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center on April 26.
Kol Gjelaj, the project manager for the Gun Hill Road program, says easing congestion on the busy street will not be easy.
Over the past four years, five pedestrians were killed on Gun Hill Road and between 2006 and 2008, 57 serious traffic accidents occurred in the Norwood section of the road, between Webster and Jerome avenues.
Gjelaj says the project will include three upcoming public presentations leading up to a final presentation, most likely in the fall, when the program’s recommendations for the corridor will be introduced.
“You can’t expect miracles,” says Gjelaj, “but we’re going to look at everything.”
Problems on the road include everything from pedestrian jaywalking, drivers speeding to beat stop lights, and ambulances rushing to and from Montefiore Medical Center’s emergency room.
The public input session at the community center on Gun Hill Road and DeKalb Avenue received a sparse turnout. Aside from the usual problems, however, those who did show up called for more bike racks and complained about drivers using 211th Street as a means of avoiding traffic on Gun Hill Road, among other things.
Dennis O’Brien, owner of A & O Surgical Supplies on Gun Hill Road and Putnam Place, thinks that a lot of the street’s problems could be solved if drivers and pedestrians simply followed the rules. “Until the rules are enforced,” O’Brien said, “things are not going to improve.”
O’Brien said an employee of his was struck by a vehicle making an illegal U-turn.
“Every time you walk on Gun Hill Road, you’re taking your life into your hands,” he said.
Ed. Note: To submit a complaint or suggestion to be considered by the congestion program, visit www.nyc.gov/dot and click on the ‘Congested Corridors’ link under the DOT Initiatives section. Or, call the Gun Hill Road Congested Corridor Study at (212) 839-7722.
Banks Get a Bronx Cheer at Wall Street Rally
May 6, 2010
By James Fergusson
Several thousand people, including a hefty contingent of Bronx activists, descended on Wall Street last week to denounce the nation’s leading banks, which they believe played a leading role in the nation’s recent economic crisis, and demand financial reform.
“Because we are one country, when greed runs amok on Wall Street, it means lost jobs and shuttered stores on Main Street,” said Richard Trumka, president of the AFL-CIO, a federation of labor unions and one of the event’s organizers.
Trumka demanded that “Wall Street, fix the mess” it made and “stop fighting” efforts in Washington to make the banking and financial systems more transparent and accountable.
Dozens of Northwest Bronx Community & Clergy Coalition (NWBCCC) members, young and old, were in attendance. Some held “Reclaim America” and “Hold Banks Accountable” signs. Others carried a giant, homemade squid, in homage to a Rolling Stone writer’s famous claim that Goldman Sachs is a “great vampire squid wrapped around the face of humanity, relentlessly jamming its blood funnel into anything that smells like money.”
Adolfo Abreu, a 17-year-old youth leader with Sistas and Brothas United, the youth arm of the NWBCCC, was among those to speak. “With all these [school] budgets cuts, how I am going to succeed in life and obtain the pursuit of happiness?” he asked, in reference to school overcrowding and impending teacher layoffs.
Earlier that afternoon, as part of the same event, some 200 people squeezed into the lobby of 270 Park Ave. in midtown, where JPMorgan Chase is headquartered. With sheepish security guards and curious employees looking on, the protestors began chanting “Bust up big banks” and “Enough is enough.”
JPMorgan Chase was targeted because they charge low-income people fees to use Electronic Benefits Transfer Cards (EBT) and refuse to reduce the amount of money struggling homeowners owe them in mortgage payments, according to National People’s Action, the organizer of the rally.
Next up, the protestors, including NWBCCC members and other community activists, walked a few blocks north where they took over the lobby of a building in which Wells Fargo has offices.
“This isn’t fair. If you want to do this properly, go outside like ladies and gentlemen,” shouted a police officer who entered the lobby behind them — a plea that went unheeded for at least 20 minutes.
Wells Fargo controls the trust which holds the mortgage on a number of Bronx apartment buildings which are in foreclosure because Milbank Real Estate, the private equity firm that owns them, defaulted on its loan. Last month, Legal Services NYC’s Bronx unit filed a lawsuit against the bank and another company in an effort to force them to maintain the buildings. The lawsuit, if successful, could have nationwide implications for tenants and landlords.
After the protest, Graciela Gomez, a Milbank tenant, described conditions inside her crumbling building near the Bronx Zoo. She said the building’s front doors have no locks, the elevators and security cameras are broken, and tenants are often without heat and hot water. The 52-apartment building has 405 housing violations.
“[We’re here] to make the demand that banks like Wells Fargo stop lending money to bad landlords like Milbank because they don’t take care of the tenants in the buildings.” said Gomez.
James Mumm, the former executive director of the NWBCCC, who now works for National People’s Action, said the surprise visits were part of a “continuing campaign to get the CEOs of the biggest banks in America to meet with the communities they hurt.”
At both banks, protesters left letters requesting a meeting with the CEO and laying out a list of demands, including more protection for families in danger of losing their homes, and investment in local development projects that create jobs
As of Monday, neither bank had responded to the requests, said J. CoCo Chang, a spokesperson for National People’s Action.
Traffic Alert
May 6, 2010
By Norwood News
Con Edison will be installing a high pressure gas main from Bainbridge Avenue and East Gun Hill Road to the Croton Water Filtration Plant site along Jerome Avenue. Excavation and installation at the intersection of Bainbridge and Gun Hill will take place for approximately two weeks beginning on May 5. The construction schedule will be Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. For questions and concerns, call the Con Edison public affairs office at (914) 925-6315 or (914) 925-6368.
Residents Lament Devoe Park Rumpus
May 6, 2010
By Alex Gibbons
Residents of the community surrounding Devoe Park say that a nighttime party scene at the park is a constant source of frustration, concern and disturbance.
At a recent Community Board 7 meeting, several residents of the community made a plea for help. The parties, which have been a regular occurrence during the warm months for the last four years, started up again in mid-April when the Bronx had a string of warm weekends.
“It’s hedonistic,” said one resident, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of retribution. She described the cacophony produced by the parties as “an assault on the senses,” making it hard for residents to get any sleep or peace while the parties rage on.
Those who came forward said they were putting themselves on the line by complaining to the community board, saying the element behind the Devoe Park parties is dangerous.
“It’s a somewhat desperate situation for the residents who live around there,” said Board 7 District Manager Fernando Tirado.
Grilling, illegal in New York City parks, is a constant facet of the parties, as well as gambling and the excessive consumption of alcohol. In the past, residents have found leftover coals dumped on the hoods of their cars after complaining to the revelers about noise.
At the CB7 meeting, residents asked Councilman Fernando Cabrera, present at the time of the hearing, for help and invited him to witness the debauchery firsthand. Cabrera told the community members that he wants to be contacted as soon as a pattern develops. A few cold and rainy weekends following the CB7 meeting prevented any late night parties from happening.
Until the CB7 meeting, residents claimed police presence in the neighborhood was almost non-existent. Since the meeting, however, patrol cars have been seen driving through the neighborhood.
Public and Community Meetings
May 6, 2010
By Norwood News
• On Thursday, May 6, there will be a Water Board public hearing on water rate hikes from 6 to 9 p.m. at PS 14 located at 3041 Bruckner Blvd.
• There will be a Community Education Council Public Hearing on Wednesday, May 12 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at PS 54, 2703 Webster Ave. The topic will be Education Budget Allocations.
• The 52nd Precinct Community Council will meet on May 27 at 7 p.m. at Scott Tower, 3400 Paul Ave. Guest speaker will be Ms. Diane Brown, Sexual Assault Treatment Program. For more information, call (718) 220-5824.
• Community Board 7 will hold its general board meeting on Tuesday, May 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the Fordham United Methodist Church, 2543 Marion Avenue. For a listing of Community Board committee meetings or for more information on upcoming meetings and events, visit bronxcb7.info/calendar or call (718) 933-5650.
Pilgrim-Hunter Nabs Labor Support
May 6, 2010
By Alex Kratz
While Pedro Espada fends off multiple law suits, Desiree Pilgrim-Hunter, the Fordham Hill activist taking Espada on for the 33rd Senate District seat, is gaining momentum, picking up a big labor endorsement and scheduling fund-raisers with deep-pocketed Democratic donors.
Last week, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU), endorsed Pilgrim-Hunter, her first major institutional endorsement. The RWDSU partnered with Pilgrim-Hunter and the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition in helping stop the city’s plan to turn the Kingsbridge Armory into a shopping mall.
A couple of weeks ago, Pilgrim-Hunter met with Israel Rivera, the secretary-treasurer of the TWU Local 100, according to a source close to her campaign.
Even considering Pilgrim-Hunter’s recent good fortune, she still must make up a mountainous fund-raising deficit if she hopes to beat Espada, who has raised $304,450, according to his latest state campaign finance filings.
She is hoping to raise $100,000 at a May 26 fund-raiser hosted by Cathy and Marc Lasyr, two big-time Democratic donors, at their Upper Eastside home, according to the Daily News.
Pilgrim-Hunter is looking to make up a mountainous fund-raising deficit. According to her actblue.com web page, she’s raised $6,183 so far. (That’s only online contributions, according to Yorman Nunez, a campaign adviser. That doesn’t include how much Pilgrim-Hunter has raised through house parties and other events, but Nunez wouldn’t disclose that amount.)
Cuomo: Espada Scammed Workers at Health Center
May 6, 2010
By Alex Kratz
Attorney General Andrew Cuomo is drowning embattled Bronx State Senator Pedro Espda, Jr., who represents all of the Norwood News coverage area, in civil suits.
On top of charges that he bilked the nonprofit Soundview HealthCare Network, the cluster of south Bronx health clinics he founded, for some $14 million, Cuomo filed another suit saying Espada (and his son, Pedro G. Espada) set up a sham of a job training program designed to pay temporary employees a fraction of minimum wage.
“The job training program was a sham,” Cuomo told reporters. “There was no training. There was no program.”
According to the law suit, Espada kept a revolving door of temporary workers who would do cleaning work at his health clinics for two weeks and then receive a $200 stipend, which amounted to a wage of about $1.87 an hour. Minimum wage in New York is $7.25 an hour.
Espada, who has been trying to rehab his image locally by showing up for Little League parades and giving money to area schools, claims Cuomo is trying to bully him and score points before entering the race for governor, which he is widely expected to win.
“Cuomo the bully strikes again,” Espada told PIX 11 News. “No one was ripped off. We gave opportunity to people.”
Bronx Pols Slam Arizona Immigration Law
May 6, 2010
By Alex Kratz
In recent weeks, a slew of Bronx politicians have come out forcefully against a new Arizona strict immigration law, saying the legislation is “anti-immigrant” and unconstitutional. Many are calling on the federal government to enact broad immigration reform to prevent such laws from popping up in other states.
Congressman Jose E. Serrano and his son, State Senator Jose M. Serrano, have been two of the Bronx’s most vocal opponents of the Arizona law, which would essentially allow local law enforcement officials to ask anyone, with any reasonable cause, for proof of legal residency. If a person can’t produce the proper documentation, they can be jailed and possibly deported.
While conservatives continue to stand by the law, opposition to it appears to be growing.
Days after the law was passed, Congressman Serrano sent out a statement condemning the bill. He called on Major League Baseball to move the 2011 All-Star game, scheduled to be held in Phoenix, “due to the extremist anti-immigrant law enacted last week in Arizona.”
Serrano said there’s precedent for this type of stance. The NFL rescinded its offer to hold the Super Bowl in Arizona in 1993 after the players union warned that it would not play in a state that didn’t honor the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr., which it didn’t at the time.
Serrano said, “This anti-immigrant law is unjust, wrong-headed, mean-spirited, and unconstitutional. It is important that everyone who believes in justice and our national spirit of decency speak out against this measure. MLB has a very loud megaphone and their rejection of Arizona’s action would be an important demonstration to the state that we do not tolerate such displays of intolerance in our nation.”
Soon after Serrano’s declaration, the Major League players union strongly criticized the Arizona law. Several individual players, including San Diego Padres All-Star Adrian Gonzalez (a Mexican immigrant), said they would consider boycotting the All-Star game in Arizona if the law is still in place next summer.
Tea Party Brewing in the Boogie Down
May 6, 2010
By Alex Kratz
Every couple of years, someone steps up to challenge entrenched 11-term Democratic Congressman Eliot Engel, who represents part of Bronx (Riverdale, Norwood, Woodlawn), Westchester and Rockland counties, usually with underwhelming results.
This year, the first to step up to the plate is Anthony Mele (pictured), 51, a Rockland-based businessman and Army vet who solidly identifies himself as an organizer with the burgeoning and conservative tea party movement that was credited with putting Republican Scott Brown into the vacant Massachusetts senate seat held by the late liberal icon Ted Kennedy.
Unsurprisingly, he’s made taxes (the TEA in Tea Party stands for Taxed Enough Already) the singular theme of his campaign.
“Its time to stop the tax madness down in Washington,” Mele said in a statement announcing his candidacy. “We don’t need government over-spending, over-taxing and over-reaching into our lives.”
In this overwhelmingly Democratic district (so was Kennedy’s), Mele is running on the Republican and Conservative ballot lines.
Floatin’ on a River
May 6, 2010
By Norwood News
Bronx River lovers traveled down the northern borough’s rapidly improving central waterway last Saturday afternoon for the 11th Annual Bronx River Flotilla.
At the event, the nonprofit Bronx River Alliance unveiled its Bronx River Blueway Map & Guide, a map and written tour of the river to help the public navigate the river. For more information on the Map & Guide or the Bronx River in general, visit bronxriver.org or a call (718) 430-4665.
Lehman College Unveils Media-Making Mecca
May 6, 2010
By Jeanmarie Evelly
Lehman College dedicated a brand new, state-of-the art media center on April 23, the culmination of 11 years of planning and $16 million in funding.
The new center, in Carman Hall, will be a hub for students from the journalism, communications, theater, music and art departments. Its two floors feature a broadcasting studio, an all-digital newsroom, an eight-room audio editing suite, a music recording control room and multi-purpose classrooms.
“We have a high definition video and audio studio that‘s comparable to what you would find at CNN,” said Jerold Barnard, executive director of the center, who helped conceptualize and plan the space.
“This kind of facility doesn’t really exist anywhere on any campus in New York City, as far as I know,” he said
College and CUNY officials, as well as Deputy Borough President Aurelia Greene, attended the new site’s dedication. Musicians from Lehman faculty performed.
Barnard said it took 11 long years for the center to become a reality. Funding issues along the way delayed the project, which had to be revised several times to keep up with recent technology. The wait was worth it, he said, and an amazing transformation from the dark, closed off space it replaced.
“It was basically a cave—a big cave, but a cave,” Barnard remembered. Now, the two-floor, 22,000-square-foot site boasts a huge skylight, glass paneling and a 900-square-foot series of photos on display by artist Nade Haley.
“The whole place feels very open and charming and alive,” Barnard said.
Classes in TV production and news writing began in the center this fall. The broadcasting studio can feed programs directly to the public access TV station BRONXNET, which is located in the same building, and faculty have plans to start and produce a student news show in the future.
The center will also be welcoming a new faculty member this fall: Emmy Award-winning composer Michael Bacon (brother of actor Kevin Bacon), a Lehman alumnus, will teach film scoring, a course offered at only a few other schools on the east coast. Bacon performed on guitar at the ceremony as did violinist Philippe Quint and pianist Molly Morkoski.
School officials said they hope the site can become a sought-after space for professionals in the film and music industry as well.
“We all know the movie the ‘Bronx Tale,’ said Lehman President Dr. Ricardo R. Fernandez. “Over the coming years, this center will see the creation of hundreds, even thousands, of Bronx tales, woven in this magnificent facility.”
Chess Rules at PS/MS 15
May 6, 2010
By Anelgi Solis
On a Tuesday afternoon in a University Heights classroom, the adolescent members of PS/MS 15’s chess team sit quietly practicing their craft.
The classroom, which doubles as the dean’s office, is decorated with photos of chess masters, a small army of trophies and, of course, chessboards on every table. The space serves as the incubator and training ground for some of the nation’s best junior high school chess players.
For the second time in five years, the PS/MS 15 team proved its mettle on a big stage, taking home the national junior high chess championship at a tournament in Minneapolis in April.
“I love to win,” said 13-year-old Christian Rodriguez who said he’s been playing since he was 5.
“I’m really proud of these kids,” said the team’s coach Alan Abrams. “They’re great kids.”
Chess is engrained in the culture at this successful school on Andrews Avenue. The so-called Royal Game is taught once a week to students from first to eighth grade as part of the school’s curriculum. Most of the students on the chess team have been playing competitively since the second grade.
“I was picked to play this game and I thought, ‘okay why not, it looks challenging,’ and I ended up liking it,” said Jaison Gonzalez, 13.
Abrams, who teaches the chess program at PS/MS 15, is also a private tutor and creator of the Literacy Through Chess Program.
“One has to be good in math, art or music, any one of the three is a characteristic of a good chess player,” said Abrams. He added, “When looking for students to be on the team, I look for focus and ability. These students have exactly that and more.”
“When I first started playing chess, it made me feel relaxed, and I thought it was fun because it’s like solving problems,” said Christopher Padron, 12. “I like solving problems. Math is my favorite subject.”
Every year since 1999, the team has made nationals; they were also named champions in 2006.
Traveling to various states including Florida, Tennessee and Colorado is among their favorite reasons to be on the chess team. Some travel with their parents while others travel alone. “I love traveling, that’s part of the reason why I want to continue with the chess team even in high school,” said 14-year-old Minh Mac. “Oh and ‘cause I love chess,” she smiled.
This year’s team, who call themselves the Chess Scholars — Minh, Jaison, Christopher, Christian, Edirka Alcantara, 12, Gabriel Benitez, 13, Christopher Capizzuto, 13, and Sean Sookram, 13 — tied with the team from Florida, allowing both teams to be named National Champions.
The children all agree that it takes a lot of practice, hard work and determination to become national champions. “I practice every day, whether it’s an actual game or on the computer,” Christopher Padron said.
“A lot of people might say the game is boring or weird, but if you really understand the game and know how to play it, it’s actually a lot of fun,” said Edirka.
In order to get to the nationals, the students and their families did their own fund-raising and also received funding from parents in Westchester who are familiar with the work of Abrams. More funding might be on the way.
When arriving at the airport in New York from Minneapolis, the vice president of Goldman Sachs (who observed the children during their flight and at the championship), approached Abrams, complimenting him on the children’s behavior. Impressed by their demeanor, he offered to help fund them in the future.
Lead-Contaminated Field Still Being Used
May 6, 2010
By Alex Kratz
On a recent Friday evening, a handful of Spanish-speaking men played baseball and drank beer at Harris Field, a public park sandwiched between the Bronx High School of Science and Lehman College. They had no clue that parts of the park contained extremely high levels of lead contamination.
Why would they? It is officially closed as a construction site and surrounded by fencing, but is easily accessible due to the fences’ flimsy wiring, which is bent and ripped in several spots. Plus, there are no signs alerting the public of the contamination.
For months, local residents have complained at local community board meetings that people were using the field and that there wasn’t proper signage.
In an e-mail addressing security concerns at Harris Field, Jesslyn Moser, a Parks Department spokesperson said, “We ensure there is public signage that clearly indicates the site is under construction and closed to the public. People are advised to abide by these signs which promote safety.”
The majority of the fence holes have been repaired, but the top of the fence is bent down in areas and the signage hasn’t stopped people from entering the park.
People can be exposed to lead by breathing or swallowing lead dust or by eating lead-contaminated soil. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), high levels of lead in the human body can lead to a variety of health problems, especially for children, including damage to the brain and nervous system, slowed development, hearing impairment and headaches.
According to the EPA, public play areas must be mitigated if the soil contains a lead contamination level of 400 parts per million. One area of Harris Field was found to have a level of 1,754 parts per million, according to documents obtained by the Norwood News, with the help of the nonprofit New York City Park Advocates.
The Parks Department said it is complying with State Department of Health (DOH) regulations. Workers dampened the contaminated soil and placed tarps on top of it.
“As long as the public keeps off the site, there is no immediate danger,” Moser said in a February e-mail.
In October, the Norwood News learned that soil contamination had been found at Harris Field. At the time, the Parks Department was in the middle of construction on an extensive overhaul of the park’s playfields and had not alerted the public.
Since then, construction has stalled as the Parks Department mitigates the contaminated areas, an undertaking that will cost $5.2 million. The price tag on the project is now $13.9 million.
The contamination reports were compiled and completed in mid-October by KAM Consultants, a Long Island City environmental consulting and testing firm.
On Oct. 15, the Norwood News filed a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request for all documentation related to the contamination, which advocates say should have been discovered by the Parks Department well before construction began. It remains unclear when the contamination was first discovered.
It has been more than 130 business days since the Norwood News first filed the FOIL request. On Oct. 22, the Parks Department estimated it would take 60 business days to complete the request. The Parks Department did not respond to several attempts to find out why the documents were not forthcoming. The agency has not provided any other documents related to contamination besides those already obtained by the Norwood News.
Geoffrey Croft, of New York City Park Advocates, said the delays and reluctance to release documentation related to the contamination means the agency “rushed this through without doing their due diligence.” As early as 2004, when studying the area around the Jerome Park Reservoir, the Department of Environmental Protection reported that parts of Harris Field, which is just across the street from the reservoir, contained high levels of lead.
Out of 15 samples taken, 13 contained levels above the federal standards for public play areas and five exceeded contamination levels of more than 1,000 parts per million.
Jeff Kuperman, of the New York Environmental Law and Justice Project, said the highest levels found were alarming. He said the Parks Department should have tested for contamination before starting construction to protect workers at the site. He was incredulous when told the agency had only discovered the contamination when construction was in full-swing.
The fields were initially supposed to be completed before the spring of 2009. In February, Moser said the Parks Department still hoped to have the mitigation completed and the fields open by this spring. Mitigation has yet to begin.
In the meantime, Don Bluestone, the executive director of the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center, said his youth baseball league has suffered because of a lack of facilities. The center’s youth league, which used to play the majority of its games on Harris Field, is down to about 450 participants from a high of more than 1,000.
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