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Out & About

By Alex Gibbons

Onstage
 
Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., presents, free, Traditional Irish and original folk music, Oct. 21, 12:30 to 2 p.m., in Carman Hall, room B04 (call (718) 960-8680); and Halloween Haunts, featuring classical music performed by the Lehman College Community Band, Oct. 31 at 2 p.m. (call (718) 960-8247).
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The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, presents Mariachi Real de Mexico, Oct. 23 at 2:30 p.m.; and Flamenco Music and Dance, with Arts Flamenco, Oct. 30 at 2:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.

Events

The Bedford Park Congregational Church, located on Bainbridge Avenue at 201st Street, will hold a Fun Fair and Flea Market, fund-raiser including refreshments, games and raffles, Oct. 23, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) 367-8996.

The Church of the Mediator, located at 260 W. 231st St., hosts a flea market, Oct. 23, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fee for one table is $20, and $35 for two tables (setup time is 7 to 8:30 a.m. For more information, call (347) 992-4361 of (347) 483-2489.

The Church of the Holy Nativity, located at 3061 Bainbridge Ave. at 204th Street, hosts its 110th year Anniversary Dinner and Dance Fund-raiser, Nov. 6, 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tickets are $55 for singles and $100 for couples. For more information, call (718) 652-5853 or (917) 208-3207.

Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., presents Pinstripes and Promises, a free lecture, Oct. 27, 12:30 to 2 p.m., in the Music Building, room 313. For more information, call (718) 960-7802.

Lehman College, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., presents Short Film Concert, featuring several short films, Nov. 6 at 8 p.m., hosted by “Precious” star Gabourey Sidibe (tickets are $15).  For more information, call (718) 510-6929.

Lehman College will host Visionary Leaders of the Bronx: Celehrating the Vision, a leadership awards dinner, Oct. 27 at 6 p.m., at the Bronx Botanical Garden, which will recognize alumni and friends of the college who have made significant achievements. The event also raises much needed scholarship funds for Lehman students. Call the Lehman Foundation office for tickets at (718) 960-1113 or visit www.lehman2010gala.com.

The Bronx Academy of Arts & Dance (BAAD), located at 841 Barretto St., presents a variety of events through Oct. 23. For more information, call (718) 842-5223.

JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center, located at 3880 Sedgwick Ave., hosts Tribute to Spanish Heritage, with opera singers from Puerto Rico, Oct. 27 at 6:30 p.m., preceded by dinner at 5:30 p.m. (suggested contribution $4). To RSVP by Oct. 22, or for more information, call (718) 549-4700.

The 15th annual Tour de Bronx, NYS’s largest free bicycling event, will be held Oct. 24 starting at 9:30 a.m. at the Bronx County Building, Grand Concourse and 161st Street. Riders can join the Bronx River Alliance at the river (call (718) 430-4665 for details). This year’s event is dedicated to the memory of Megan Charlop, a force for bicycling in the Bronx and beyond. Register on the web at www.tourdebronx.org.

The Bronx River Alliance offers Thriller on the Bronx River, to canoe though the Bronx River Forest, past the Botanical Garden and end at the Bronx Zoo (costumes are encouraged), Oct. 31. Call (718) 430-4665 or visit www.bronxriver.org for details, fees, and times.

Woodlawn Cemetery will host free End of Life Planning Seminar, discussion about difficult problems for survivors, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. in the Woolworth Chapel (call (718) 920-1463 ext. 252). Other events include: Autumn in Woodlawn, guided tour to see variety of trees, Oct. 24 at 1 p.m.; and Halloween at Woodlawn, guided tour featuring words or music at resting places, Oct. 29, 30 and 31 at 6 p.m. (flashlights are required!). Tours meet at Jerome Avenue entrance. For more information and fees, call (718) 920-1463 ext. 252.

Wave Hill, located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, offers two free family art projects: Fairy Wands and Tiny Houses, to fashion sticks, leaves, and bark into a tiny, fairy-sized dwelling, Oct. 23 and 24; and Masks of Nature, to create a mask out of twigs and branches to wear in a parade, Oct. 30 and 31; both in the Ecology Building from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Grounds admission is free until noon on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Also presented is Concert: Four Nations Ensemble, featuring classical music, Oct. 31 at 2 p.m. in the Wave Hill House. Tickets are $18/members, $28/general, $26/seniors and students, $10/member child, $12/general admission for children. For more information or for tickets, call (718) 549-3200 ext. 305 or visit www.wavehill.org.

The public is invited to ride the Nov. 3 free Bronx Culture Trolley to Bronx hot spots, all featuring a variety of entertainment options. 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. For more information and a detailed schedule, call (718) 931-9500 ext. 33 or log on to www.bronxarts.org.

Exhibits

Lehman College’s Art Gallery at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., hosts free exhibitions Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Photographing Woodlawn, in collaboration with Friends of the Woodlawn Cemetery, through Dec. 15; and Exhibit: The Craft, through Dec. 16 (tour of the current exhibit is Oct. 28 from 12:30 to 2 p.m.). For more information, call (718) 960-8731.

The New York Botanical Garden hosts Resplendent Roses, on display in the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden through the fall; and Greenmarket, which offers fresh local produce, to take place Wednesdays through Nov. 24 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the base of Library Allée. For more information, call (718) 817-8700/8747.

Holiday Events

U.B.A. Sports Club 4 Kids, Inc. hosts 4th annual Haunted House in the Park, Oct. 30, 5 to 7 p.m. (for little kids) and 8 to 9:30 p.m., at MS 399 school yard, 120 E. 184th St. For more information, call (718) 584-0350.

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. and St. Mary’s Recreational Center present Bronx Pumpkin Fest and Halloween Spooktacular, Oct. 30, noon to 7 p.m., at St. Mary’s, 450 St. Ann’s Ave. Included are a haunted house, pumpkin carving, face painting, popcorn, and cotton candy. For more information, call (718) 590-3522.

The public is invited to come to where the wild things really are at Boo at the Zoo, held at the Bronx Zoo, weekends in October. Events include a haunted safari, lost hayride, and magic shows. One child in costume, aged 3 to 12, can enter free with the purchase of one full-priced adult admission (kids under 3 are free). For more information, visit Bronxzoo.com.

Library Events

The Bronx Library Center, at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, presents the following programs: For children: Films, Oct. 27 and Nov. 3 at 4 p.m.; Preschool Story Time, Oct. 21, 28 and Nov. 4 at 11 a.m.; and Baby Story Time, Oct. 30 at 11 a.m. For adults, there is Let’s Talk About HIV/AIDS and Sexual Health, Nov. 3 at 10 a.m. Also, Signing in Puerto Rican: A Hearing Son and His Deaf Family, for persons with disabilities and adults with auditory disabilities, Oct. 25 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 Knitting Circle, Oct. 21 and 28 at 3 p.m., for adults; Learn to Knit, Oct. 25 at 4 p.m., for teens and young adults (all material provided); and Fall Fun, Oct. 28 at 4 p.m.; and Toddler Story Time, Nov. 4 at 10:30 a.m.; both for children. Adults and seniors can enjoy Wii, Tuesdays at 3 p.m. Also offered is Halloween Candy Fun, Oct. 28 at 4 p.m. (call to confirm); and Free English Conversation Program, for speakers of other languages (intermediate level), for ages 16 and over; first come, first served (info: (212) 340-0918); groups meet Tuesdays through Nov. 23, 6:30 to 8 p.m. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.

Jerome Park Library, at 118 Eames Place, presents The Science of Magic, Oct. 26 at 4 p.m., for the entire family; and Bookmaking, Nov. 4 at 4 p.m. for teens and young adults. 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 Oct. 28 for the next publication date of Nov. 4.
 

Neighborhood Notes

By Norwood News

Social Security Info
Representatives of the Social Security Administration will be at Congressman Eliot Engel’s office, 3655 Johnson Ave. on Oct. 27 to discuss SS issues. For an appointment, call (718) 796-9700.

Grace Dodge Beauty Salon Reopens
The School of Professional Beauty Care at Grace Dodge Career and Technical High School, located at 2474 Crotona Ave., in salon room 509, has reopened its after school beauty parlor for the fall semester. Hours for The New Image Beauty Salon, for both men and women, are Thursdays and Fridays, 2:45 to 5:30 p.m., offering a variety of services from hair and nails to Brazilian blowout. A licensed cosmetologist supervises the students who are graduating seniors in the school’s cosmetology program. For more information or an appointment, call (718) 584-2700 ext 5084.

Free ESL Classes
PS 94, at 3530 Kings College Place, is offering free ESL classes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 5:10 to 8:30 p.m. Interested parents can sign up in room 256 or call parent coordinator, Miriam Seminario, at (347) 563-4772.

Small Business Services
The Bronx Small Business Development Center, operated by Lehman College, is ready to assist you in obtaining financing. The Center also offers free workshops and small business consulting services to start or expand your business. For more information, call (718) 960-8806.

Help Find Places for Street Trees
Community Board 7 is asking for volunteers who can help identify areas where trees are needed or in need of attention. Volunteers will help transform streets, parks and public spaces into beautiful green landscapes. For more information, call (718) 933-5650/51.

Classes in the Arts
Mind Builders Creative Arts Center is offering dance, music, theater and martial arts classes for all ages. Registration is held every Tuesday and Thursday from 4 to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mind Builders’ interim facility at 260 E. 207th St. For more information, visit www.mind-builders.org or call (718) 652-6256.

Love Your Block Grants
The mayor’s office and the Citizens Committee for New York City invite neighborhood groups to apply for a block transformation grant where they can receive grants from $500 to $1,000 and support from city agencies to help revitalize your block. Application deadline is Nov. 15. For more information or an application, call Saleen Shah at (212) 822-9566.

COVE Pre-Teen Program
There are still openings for the COVE Pre-Teen program, located at 3418 Gates Pl. (lower level). It is a 32-week after-school program, for ages 11 to 13, which includes homework help, arts & crafts, photography, monthly trips, and a Young Men’s or Young Women’s group. For more information, call (718) 405-1312.

Art Classes at BRAC
The Bronx River Art Center offers Digital Media and Fine Arts classes for all ages after school and Saturdays. For more information, call (718) 589-5919 or visit www.bronxriverart.org.

Foster Parents Needed
Hundreds of foster children in the area need loving and caring families to make a difference in their lives, and the Foster Care Network is reaching out to potential foster parents in the Bronx. Foster parents receive tax-free financial assistance for the expenses of each child, free training, and foster parent certification. For more information, call NY outreach coordinator Scott Burgher at (800) 454-3727, ext. 105 or visit www.fostercarenetwork.org.

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.

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.

Shape-Up NYC
The Department of Parks & Recreation, in partnership with Equinox Fitness Clubs, is offering classes aimed at getting New Yorkers into a new habit of fitness. Classes will include yoga, pilates, zumba and intensati. All classes are ongoing, open to the public, and free of charge at St. James Recreation Center, 2530 Jerome Ave. For more information, visit nyc.gov/befitnyc.

Place for Teens With Issues
The Power Project is a free program for teens ages 12 to 18 who are dealing with substance abuse and other problems. Located at 3464 Webster Ave., Power Project provides case management, individual and group counseling, trips, and is just a place to get away from it all. For more information, call (718) 515-7971.

Kids Basketball Programs
Saturday afternoons the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center will be teaching the sport of basketball to children. The fee is $85, plus $20 insurance for 8 sessions. For more information, call Chris Pinto (718) 882-4000 ext 280.

Electronic Medical Records Training
The Bronx Community College will offer high technology medical courses to information technology and healthcare professionals in a new health information technology training program. For more information, call (718) 289-5178 or e-mail: Elizabeth.oliver@bcc.cuny.edu.

Volunteers Sought for Brain/Aging Study
The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University seeks volunteers ages 18 to 25 and 58 to 70 to participate in a study on aging and brain activity. The study will examine the link between age, brain activity and day-to-day functioning. It will include two visits, one for a 3-hour screening and the second a reading of brainwaves while participants complete a series of tasks, which will last from 4 to 6 hours. Participants will be paid $12/hr. For more information or to participate, call (718) 862-1828.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Shape-Up NYC
The NYC Department of Parks & Recreation in partnership with Equinox Fitness Clubs are offering classes aimed at getting New Yorkers into a new habit of fitness. Classes will include yoga, pilates, zumba and intensati, all classes are open to the public and free of charge. Classes begin May 17 at St. James Recreation Center, 2530 Jerome Ave, or visit nyc.gov/befitnyc.

Summer Youth Employment Program
SYEP provides New York City youth between the ages of 14 and 24 with summer employment and educational opportunities. The program is designed to emphasize real-world expectations, increase awareness of services offered by community-based organizations and provide opportunities for career instruction, financial literacy, academic improvement and social growth. Apply now at application.nycsyep.com.

Summer EcoCrafts
Join Friends of Van Cortlandt Park at Van Cortlandt Park South and Gouverneur Avenue., to create picture frames, puppets, masks and more natural and recycled crafts using everyday items in exciting ways, Tuesdays, July 6 through August 24, from 11am to 2 pm. For more information visit www.vancortladt.org or call (718) 601-1553

Garden & Compost Crew
Join Friends of Van Cortlandt Park, Thursdays July 8 through August 26 from 10 am to 1 pm, to donate to Part of the Solution, help pull weeds, turn sift compost bins, and tend to plants. Group meets near Broadway and Mosholu Avenue. For more information visit www.vancortladt.org or call (718) 601-1553

 

Closing Up Shoppe

By Layza Garcia

Last week, the signs on the windows of Hair Shoppe said it all: “Due to the Economy — Close Oct. 16,” “40 % off all Hair Products.” 

Inside, boxes everywhere were filled with shampoos and conditioners. There were missing mirrors and chairs where clients used to sit for their regular hairdos. And, on the right-hand side of the shop was a desk where Anita Bon, 61, owner of Hair Shoppe, greeted her clients as they came in. 

After a 17-year run on Bainbridge Avenue, near the corner of East 205th Street, Bon was closing up Shoppe.

“It was blast while it lasted,” said Bon, smiling.

Since 1969, Bon has been a hairdresser in various Bronx hair salons.  In 1993, she decided to start a place of her own and took over management at Hair Shoppe. 

For years, business was good. She had loyal customers coming in for their regular haircuts, trims and colorings. With five hairdressers on staff, Bon served everyone who came through her door. 

But things took a sharp turn, Bon said, when the economy dipped and two devastating fires late last year (see cover story) decreased local foot traffic. Plus, “the rent got too high,” said Bon.

Bon said the loss of the nearby supermarket, Foodtown, which burned down in a fire last Dec. 21, was the beginning of the end for her business.

When people went to Foodtown to buy groceries, Bon said they would stop by the salon to get their hair fixed.  But without the supermarket, Bon said the customers dried up. She tried placing ads in newspapers and discounting haircuts and products. Nothing seemed to work. 

“I’m so sorry to see her go,” said Svetlana Jekova, 41, one of Bon’s longtime customers, as she sat on the last chair left in the deserted hair salon.

“I put my heart and soul into this,” Bon said. “I thought it would get better.  But I know I am not the only one [suffering].”

Bon doesn’t know what is going to happen next.  Maybe in a few years, she will open another hair salon or just simply retire.  Regardless, she said she is going to walk out of her salon with her head held high. 

Samba Arrives on Webster Avenue

By Ivonne Salazar

Bronxites know Webster Avenue more for its auto body shops than its culinary offerings. But a new Brazilian restaurant in Norwood could change that.

When friends Evelyn Polanco and Alex Perez were spending too much time driving from Manhattan to Queens to their favorite Brazilian restaurant, they decided to open one closer to home in the Bronx.

Under the guidance of a seasoned Brazilian chef, Polanco and Perez opened the Samba Grill Buffet late this summer. The restaurant, located on the corner of Gun Hill Road and Webster Avenue, serves a variety of Brazilian and Latin American foods.

The grill is the highlight, serving “churrascaria” or traditional Brazilian barbeque meats.

Jeffrey Peñalo, manager at Samba and Perez’s brother, says business has been good so far and the community has been surprised by the new addition, especially because there are few Brazilians living in the area.

“We just wanted to bring a different kind of restaurant,” Peñalo says. “We want to be pioneers in the neighborhood.”

The buffet at Samba offers typical Brazilian dishes such as Salpicon, Medallon Frango (chicken medallions), and Covi (collard greens). The buffet also has a variety of Latin American dishes like stewed chicken and beef dishes, that pair well with rice and beans, as well as a great spread of vegetable dishes that include  butternut squash, beet salad, red cabbage slaw, sweet plantains, tostones (fried green plantains), fried yucca, and mushroom salad with pepper and onions. All the food is lightly seasoned and there is an abundance of healthy choices. 

Peñalo says that including healthy food on the menu was essential. “The city is looking for more healthy stuff,” he says. “We want healthy food [at the restaurant].”

The prices are reasonable at $4.99 to $9.99 a pound, depending of whether you want just the buffet or the grilled meats or both. Customers can either eat at the restaurant or choose take-out.

“You can spend $6 [across the street] at McDonalds or with the same $6 you can get a real meal [here],” Peñalo said. 

Peñalo has big plans for the restaurant including adding a breakfast menu, delivery service, and creating a menu where customers can sit down and order a la carte.  He hopes that the restaurant will get its liquor license soon, as the owners are renovating the second floor to open a lounge in the future.

Ed. Note: The Samba Grill Buffet is located at 380 E. Gun Hill Road, at the corner of Webster Avenue. For more information, call 347-843-0140.

Discovering Healthy Eating

By Alex Kratz

Students at Discovery High School on the Walton campus were treated to a healthy meal of braised collard greens with tomatillo salsa on Tuesday.

The food was grown from seed, starting in the classroom of teacher Steve Ritz (center of photo) and grown on vertical gardens. Two weeks earlier, Ritz’s students held a full-fledged farmers market in their classroom where they sold tomatoes, greens, eggplants, basil, sweet peppers and other produce.

The produce was planted by Ritz’s kids in the spring and then transplanted to a small farm in North White Plains where it was cared for by autistic youth.

It’s all part of Ritz’s plan to empower students and promote healthy eating in the city’s unhealthiest borough.     

New Building Makes PS 94 Whole Again

By Alex Kratz

It’s not surprising that Principal Diane Daprocida started to get a little emotional when she spoke last week to a crowd, which included her own parents and children, about the new early childhood center on PS 94’s campus in Norwood.

The crowd was on hand for the grand opening of the new center and it was a happy event. But the last two years were trying for Daprocida and the rest of her school community.

The new center is essentially replacing a series of portable buildings on the PS 94 campus as well as a satellite building on Gun Hill Road that housed PS 94 kindergarteners. For two years, while construction on the center was ongoing, the school packed students into its main building and was forced to bus some of the kids zoned for PS 94 to PS 23 near St. Barnabas Hospital.

“We were packed on top of each other,” Daprocida said. “But the hardest part was turning families away.”

But now, with the opening of the center this fall, PS 94 is whole again. Daprocida said the school’s population is back up to 1,036, with capacity to comfortably take on another 40 students.

Having enough seats to accommodate the community was something Daprocida pushed hard for as a member of the project’s advisory committee. She wouldn’t budge until the building’s designers gave her three extra classrooms.

The center also includes a library, a lunchroom, an art studio and multi-purpose room that the school can use for gym classes or performances. For now, it houses kindergarteners as well as first and second graders.

Daprocida said the architects did a great job of making the space feel big, incorporating high ceilings and big windows, many that look out onto the green grass and trees in Woodlawn Cemetery, located right across the street.

The entrance to the building is a treat. The school worked with artist Kirsten Hassenfield to create an installation piece that was “fun” and “playful,” Daprocida said. The result is a series of colorful, hanging structures made of all sorts of items — dolls, teapots, artificial fruit, and gumball machines. Hassenfield calls the installation “Pixie Mix.”

PS 94 also received a new playground, which isn’t accessible by cars so teachers can’t park on it as they do at most schools (and the other half of the PS 94’s playground area). It’s surrounded by trees and is mostly open space, but there is also a new jungle gym.

Daprocida called the new facility “unbelievable” and she’s not alone. Parents and teachers were all giddy about the center.

Sherrie Bauer, a longtime kindergarten teacher who spent years in the Gun Hill Road building, said she’s “truly lucky” to be in the new center. “It’s great to be in an early childhood environment and we’re hoping it will allow these kids to really take off,” she said.

Nadine Hickson, who has a third grader at PS 94, called the new building “awesome.” Fellow parent, Myisha Lockett loved the “state-of-the-art library” and “fully-stacked kitchen.”

Outside of the new building in the new playground area, Daprocida looked around at all the happy parents. “This makes it all worth it,” she said.
 

Thanks to MPC

By None

We want to extend a huge thanks to Jennifer Beaugrand and her crew at Mosholu Preservation Corporation. After a stormy, stormy summer, we are grateful for her and her crew’s hard work in clearing the fallen trees and branches from the area parks.

Thank you.

Friends of the Williamsbridge Oval
 

A Somber Anniversary on Bainbridge

By Editorial

It’s now been a year since the horrific Bainbridge Avenue fire that destroyed 10 stores and damaged several others.

As we report in this issue, a couple of the stores have relocated, but most haven’t, and even some of the ones still standing are having a terrible time of it.

The landlord, Evelyn Jacobsen, who holds all the cards, is not returning calls from us or community leaders who are desperate to learn her plans so we can make some progress in filling this gaping hole in the local economy.

The problem is particularly acute because of the subsequent fire that demolished the strip’s only supermarket. There is hope that a new Foodtown will arise there soon. Work has begun and the owners were scheduled to present their plans this week to the community board for a newer, better market. 

Meanwhile, we call on Ms. Jacobsen to do the responsible thing and get in touch with Community Board 7 and local elected officials. We hope those officials will pull out all the stops in getting her to a local community meeting to explain her plans. It’s the least she can do.
 

A Somber Anniversary on Bainbridge

By Editorial

It’s now been a year since the horrific Bainbridge Avenue fire that destroyed 10 stores and damaged several others.

As we report in this issue, a couple of the stores have relocated, but most haven’t, and even some of the ones still standing are having a terrible time of it.

The landlord, Evelyn Jacobsen, who holds all the cards, is not returning calls from us or community leaders who are desperate to learn her plans so we can make some progress in filling this gaping hole in the local economy.

The problem is particularly acute because of the subsequent fire that demolished the strip’s only supermarket. There is hope that a new Foodtown will arise there soon. Work has begun and the owners were scheduled to present their plans this week to the community board for a newer, better market. 

Meanwhile, we call on Ms. Jacobsen to do the responsible thing and get in touch with Community Board 7 and local elected officials. We hope those officials will pull out all the stops in getting her to a local community meeting to explain her plans. It’s the least she can do.
 

After Lead Cleanup, Harris Field Back on Track

By Alina Rodriguez

The discovery of high levels of lead contamination in the soil at Harris Field last year forced construction of six new ball fields to come to a halt. But after being closed several months, construction has resumed and workers are confident they have removed all of the contamination.

It is still unclear when the high levels of lead were found and why they weren’t discovered earlier in the construction process. The Parks Department did not notify the community of the contamination and it was only made public after an investigation by the Norwood News last October.

The field was surrounded by fencing, but remained easily accessible due to flimsy wiring drawing criticism from local residents. On July 15, workers discovered a decomposing body in the field. Investigators believed the man was homeless.

Meanwhile, the cost of the project also increased to $13.8 million, due to the $5.2 million in added cleanup costs.

“Years of constant use had taken a toll on this important facility,” said Jesslyn Moser, a Parks Department spokesperson.

“We did not work for seven months,” said Carmine (who did not give his last name), a construction worker on the site. “We had to dig deep and excavate all of the contamination and remove it.”

Carmine is one of the five workers currently working on the field, which will include the reconstruction of four natural grass ball fields and the addition of two synthetic turf multipurpose fields. 

According to the Parks Department, the anticipated completion date was the spring of 2009, but questions remain if it will be ready by baseball season in 2011. Several local youth baseball leagues count on the field for practice and games and have suffered a drop in participation over the past two years.

Carmine said he was confident the project will be completed by the end of the year. “Right now I am putting up some concrete,” Carmine said. “Not working is what slowed us down, but at least all of the contamination is now gone.”

The Parks Department says that once constructed, the four natural ball fields will not be hazardous to play on because they have taken proper precautions.

According to the Parks Department, the synthetic turf fields were open to the public on Sept. 16. However, the fields appeared to be closed on a recent Wednesday afternoon. 
The Parks Department did not respond to follow-up questions.
 

Bank of America Back in Business

By Alex Kratz

After sustaining major damage in a fire last December, Bank of America, the largest commercial bank in the country, reopened its branch on East 204th Street and Perry Avenue last month.

Two weeks ago, the bank held a grand reopening ceremony and gave a $20,000 check to the FDNY Foundation, which promotes fire safety throughout the five boroughs. Jeffrey Barker, the bank’s market president for New York City, said the donation was appropriate given the fire that put them out of business for nine months.

After handing the giant check to the Foundation’s Anthony Mancuso, Barker said, “Don’t try to put that check into one of our new ATMs.”

It was important for Bank of America to maintain a presence in the neighborhood, Barker said, calling this particular branch an “anchor for the community.”

The branch is one of 11 Bank of America locations in the Bronx.

“We’re committed to growing in this area,” Barker said.  

New Law Aims to Inform Breast Cancer Patients

By Alex Kratz

Since 1998, it’s been the law in New York State, that health insurance covers the costs of breast reconstruction for cancer patients who undergo a mastectomy. And while doctors will tout the benefits of the surgery, many women who are eligible don’t seek the procedure — often because they don’t know enough about it.

Now, a state bill signed into law this summer mandates that doctors discuss reconstructive options with patients, before they start treatment.

“Women who undergo mastectomy for breast cancer get reconstructed at widely different rates, based on their socio-economic and racial profiles,” said Dr. Evan Garfein, a plastic surgeon at Montefiore Medical Center who authored the new law.

He noticed that low-income women and women of color are less likely to get the procedure done because they are uninformed, or because they aren’t aware that their insurance will pay for it.

“You don’t have to get reconstructive surgery — that’s a personal choice,” Garfein said. “But you do have to know about it. It’s part of the standard of care, and like any other treatment, you have to know about it to make an educated decision.”

For a number of reasons, Garfein said, of the thousands of women who get a mastectomy each year, only 30 or 40 percent opt for reconstruction. In some low-income communities, he estimates the number could be as low as 15 percent.

Dr. Burt Petersen, a breast surgeon at St. Barnabas Hospital, says that some doctors won’t tell their patients about the procedure because they don’t have plastic surgery support at their practice, or because their plastic surgeon doesn’t accept insurance or Medicaid.

“Rather than refer the patient to a breast surgeon that can do the reconstruction, they opt not to tell the woman about that option because they don’t want to lose the business,” Petersen said. “That’s a harsh reality. It’s unethical, and it’s bad medical practice.”

Breast reconstruction can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000, depending on what kind of procedure is done, Petersen says. The surgery is not for everyone, but can have a number of emotional benefits to a patient recovering from breast cancer.

“Women who feel better about themselves do better, and are more likely to follow up,” he said. “It has a tremendous impact on the health and well being of the patient.”

For patients who can’t afford to pay for the surgery out of pocket, Petersen recommends seeking care at a teaching hospital or center associated with a medical university, as those are more likely to accept insurance or Medicaid. 

Ed. Note: October is breast cancer awareness month. The nonprofit Cancer Care also offers a number of resources to breast cancer patients. Visit www.cancercare.org or call 1 (800) 813-HOPE (4673) for more information.

This Year’s Tour de Bronx Dedicated to Megan Charlop

By Jeanmarie Evelly

The annual Tour de Bronx, one of the city’s largest cycling events, is always a big deal.

But this year’s ride, on Sunday, Oct. 24, holds a special significance, as it will honor Megan Charlop, the longtime community health advocate and activist who died last March in a tragic cycling accident.

“She was an avid participant in the Tour de Bronx, and thought it was a great way to promote bicycling,” said Dr. David Appel, MD, a colleague of Charlop’s at Montefiore Medical Center’s School Health Program.

She spent over two decades at the hospital, where she developed a lead poisoning prevention program and helped combat childhood obesity by getting schools to stop serving sweetened milk.

Promoting good health and exercise — especially through biking — was one of Charlop’s top priorities.

“Her motto was, ‘No child left inside,’” Appel said. “She was dedicated to finding safe places for children to ride their bikes.”

This included bringing a “Learn to Ride,” program to nearby PS 56, which lent a fleet of free bicycles to the school and taught hundreds of children how to ride.

“This big bike ride — it’s an example of adults creating the right examples for children,” said Dr. Steven Safyer, MD, president and CEO at Montefiore, which is a sponsor of this year’s tour.

The tour starts near Yankee Stadium, at the Grand Concourse and East 161st Street, and has two separate routes that snake through the Bronx, highlighting the borough’s parks, waterways and cultural institutions. Participants can choose between a leisurely 25-mile ride and a quicker-paced 40-mile route.

“This is a wonderful way for us to promote health, a wonderful way for us to promote tourism,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., who will be participating in the tour for the first time. 

Charlop, who was an advocate for alternative transportation and better bike lanes, was killed in March while riding her bicycle to a meeting at a school after she swerved to avoid hitting an opening car door.

“Megan is someone who lost her life, literally, promoting bicycling,” Diaz said. “We are dedicating this event to her. Her legacy will live on. People, particularly young people, need to know who Megan Charlop was and everything that she stood for, everything that she meant to us and to the borough of the Bronx.”

Ed. Note: The Tour de Bronx is this Sunday, Oct. 24. Register at www.tourdebronx.org or just show up at the starting line at 161st Street and the Grand Concourse. The event is free.
 

Public and Community Meetings

By Norwood News

Public and Community Meetings
•    The Bedford Mosholu Community Association will meet on Wednesday, Nov. 3 at 8 p.m. at 400 E. Mosholu Pkwy. So. Apt. B1 (lobby floor). All are welcome.
•    The Croton Facility Monitoring Committee will meet on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. at the DEP Outreach Office, 3660 Jerome Ave.
•    The 52nd Precinct Community Council will meet on Thursday, Oct. 28, at 7 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church, 2500 Jerome Ave. For more information, call (718) 220-5824.  

Capital Expense Budget Public Hearing for Community Board 7 for the Fiscal Year 2012 will be held at the Board office, located at 229 A East 204 street. The first hour will allow for comments from the public on requests. The second hour will be the formulation of the proposed budget for FY 2012.

For all Community Board 7 committee meetings, click here. 

Daylight, a Source of Illumination

By Alina Rodriguez

Rookie Council Member Fernando Cabrera, 14th District, recently passed his first piece of legislation into law with the signing of “Light Efficiency Bill,” which Cabrera says will contribute to the “greening” of the city.

The new law, which will take effect on Jan. 1, 2011, will credit daylight as a valid source of light when determining lighting requirements in entrances, exits and public corridors in city buildings. It would also allow certain automatic lighting controls to be put in place to reduce energy usage when spaces are lit by daylight.

“We have a powerful, renewable, and healthy source of energy in the sun,” said Cabrera in a press release announcing the new law. “Any opportunity we have to utilize this source to minimize costs for landlords and costs passed down to tenants, we need to take hold of.”

After Sniping, 81st AD Candidates to Debate on BronxTalk

By Alex Kratz

On his way to what he’s sure will be a resounding victory in the general election in two weeks, Assemblyman Jeffrey  Dinowitz, a trained lawyer who represents most of Norwood, as well as parts of Woodlawn and Riverdale, finds himself in an unfamiliar role — defendant.

Dinowitz, who received 95 percent of his 81st District’s vote two years ago, has spent the last couple of weeks defending himself from charges brought by his feisty Republican opponent, Joe McClaughlin.

“He was so personal,” Dinowitz said following a meet-the-candidates night hosted by the Woodlawn Taxpayers Association.
McClaughlin’s campaign literature and talking points take dead aim at Dinowitz in an attempt to portray the 16-year Assembly veteran as part of a dysfunctional Albany establishment and a tax-and-spend liberal Democrat.

On the flip side, Dinowitz questions McClaughlin’s community credentials — “I haven’t seen him do anything in the community,” Dinowitz said — and is quick to lump him in with other controversial Republicans. “It’s not surprising that he’s on the same ticket as [GOP gubernatorial candidate] Carl Paladino.”

So far, the two candidates have mostly been addressing the other in monologue without the exchange of much dialogue. Bill Murphy, the McClaughlin’s campaign director, says this isn’t for lack of effort on his candidate’s part. He says Dinowitz backed out of a debate at Manhattan College that was all but scheduled for the night of Oct. 26.

“Jeffrey Dinowitz’s policy of saying one thing and doing another has gone on for 16 years,” McClaughlin said in a press release.  “His cowardly actions today show the voters that their representative is too scared to defend his record in a public debate.”

Dinowitz called McClaughlin’s comments “childish” and said, “I’m a grownup and I assume Mr. McClaughlin is too.”

The Assemblyman said he originally told McClaughlin’s campaign that his schedule was open on Oct. 26, but then found out there was a candidate’s night scheduled at the Riverdale YMCA the night before and made family plans for the 26th. He said McClaughlin’s campaign called him about the Manhattan College debate after he had already made plans.

Regardless, next Wednesday, Oct. 27, the two will finally have a chance to debate when they meet on the set of Gary Axelbank’s Bronxnet talk show, BronxTalk. The show will be taped on Wednesday afternoon and then broadcast at 9:30 p.m. It will be replayed on Thursday and Friday nights at 9:30 p.m. as well. You can also watch it on the internet at www.bronxnet.org.    

Norwood News General Election Guide

By Norwood News

Don’t forget to vote! The general election is Tuesday, Nov. 2. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. To find out where you can vote, call 1-866-VOTE-NYC, or visit this website: http://gis.nyc.gov/vote/ps/index.htm.

Here are your Candidates:

33rd Senate District
Gustavo Rivera—Democrat and Working Families
John Reynolds—Green Party

78th Assembly District
Jose Rivera—Democrat and Working Families
William J Sullivan—Republican and Conservative

80th Assembly District
Naomi Rivera—Democrat and Working Families
Joseph DeLuna—Republican
Robert Goodman—Conservative

81st Assembly District
Jeffrey Dinowitz—Democrat and Working Families
Joseph McLaughlin—Republican and Conservative

There are also two referendums on the ballot:

Referendum 1: Term Limits
Reduce from three to two the maximum number of consecutive full terms that can be served by elected city officials: and Make this change in term limits applicable only to those city officials who are first elected at or after the 2010 general election; and Prohibit the City Council from altering the term limits of elected city officials then serving office. Shall this proposal be adopted? Vote Yes or No

Referendum 2: Campaign Finance
Disclosure of Independent Campaign Spending: Require public disclosure of expenditures made by entities and individuals independent from candidates to influence the outcome of a city election or referendum; Ballot Access: Generally reduce the number of petition signatures needed by candidates for city elective office to appear on a ballot; Voter Assistance and Campaign Finance Board: Merge voter assistance functions, including a reconstituted Voter Assistance Advisory Committee, into the Campaign Finance Board, and change when Campaign Finance Board member terms begin; Conflicts of interest Law: Require all public servants to receive conflicts of interest training, raise the maximum fine for a public servant who violates the City’s conflicts of interest law, and allow the city to recover any benefits obtained from such violations; City Administrative Tribunals: Authorize the Mayor to direct the merger of administrative tribunals and adjudications into the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings and permit the Department of Consumer Affairs to adjudicate all violations issued by that department; City Reporting Requirements and Advisory Bodies: Create a commission to review requirements for reports and advisory bodies and waive the requirements, subject to City Council review, where the commission finds they are not of continuing value; and Map of Facility Siting: Include in the City’s facilities siting map those transportation and waste management facilities operated by or for governmental entities, or by private entities that provide comparable services. Shall this proposal be adopted? Vote Yes or No

The Lost Ducky Boys Unearthed in New Book

By Alex Kratz

James Hannon, a Bronx boy who grew up in the area between Bedford Park and Fordham Road, kind of stumbled upon the subject of his first book, “Lost Boys of the Bronx: The Oral History of the Ducky Boys Gang.”

Hannon was obsessed with “The Wanderers,” the movie about the borough’s 1960s street gangs based on the novel by Richard Price. But he was too young to attend a screening of the rated R movie when it came out in theaters in 1979 and was forced to wait until the invention of the VCR a few years later to finally watch it.

The movie focused on the Wanderers, an Italian gang from the Belmont area. It also featured a host of other gangs who the Wanderers encountered, including the Ducky Boys. 
Hannon grew up and eventually moved out of the Bronx, but his

“Wanderers” obsession remained. After completing a documentary about an obscure garage rock band, Richard and the Young Lions, in 2004, Hannon went looking for a new project.

He thought about trying to make a documentary about the Wanderers (actually a composite of three gangs Price created, according to Hannon), but he settled on the Ducky Boys for two reasons: they came from the Fordham-Bedford area he grew up in and their membership would actually speak to him. 

Through a couple of nostalgic Bronx websites — the Bronx Board and Back in the Bronx — Hannon began meeting and interviewing Ducky Boys as well as their friends and girlfriends. He discovered that several lived in a house near where he grew up. And like Hannon, many Duckies attended Our Lady of Refuge School and the public school across 196th Street, PS 46.

Hannon scrapped the documentary plan because the Duckies were camera shy and footage was scarce. But the resulting book, which Hannon self-published, reads much like a documentary. He sets up themes or ideas and just lets the Ducky Boys and associates talk: about the fights they got into, the pranks they used to pull and even the crimes they committed.

For the most part, Hannon says, “They were the clown gang. They’d do things that they didn’t think would hurt anybody.” For example, Hannon says, they stole the Botanical Garden’s tram vehicle three times. Their most infamous crime, which they cop to in the book, but were never convicted of, came when they robbed Honig’s, a big appliance store once located on Webster Avenue.

After the book was completed, Hannon planned a book release party that doubled as a Ducky Boys reunion on Sept. 12 at the American Legion in Yonkers, which Hannon calls “a central place” for the scattered gangsters.

Hannon wasn’t sure more than a dozen or so friends and family would show up, but the event blew up to the tune of around 200 people. About six or seven Ducky Boys showed and then countless others who grew up in the neighborhood came as well.

Hannon says he sold about 250 books that day and more on Amazon.com, which ranked “The Lost Boys of the Bronx” as the 22,000th best seller of the day.

Not bad for a Bronx boy.

Ed. Note: You can find “Lost Boys of the Bronx: The Oral History of the Ducky Boys Gang,” on Amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com. For more Bronx nostalgia, check out bronxboard.com and backinthebronx.com.

Struggling Bainbridge Stores Hit With Lawsuit

By Alex Kratz

Merchants in a Bainbridge Avenue building that sustained significant damage in a fire last Halloween are locked in a legal battle with their landlord who is suing each of them for tens of thousands of dollars in back rent.

The owners of the businesses — Betty’s Place hair salon, Ming Wong Chinese restaurant, a laundromat and a 99-cent store — say the landlord is unfairly seeking back rent during a months-long period following the fire when they couldn’t operate their businesses.

Already, a Bronx housing court judge ruled in favor of the landlord, saying the business owners failed to notify the landlord in writing that they could not operate their businesses because gas had not been restored to the building following the fire, according to lawyers representing the business owners.

The judge is now handing out penalties in each case individually — one of the merchants was ordered to pay more than $20,000 and another more than $18,000. A lawyer for the merchants said the judge has yet to assess penalties in another case, while the fourth case was scheduled for October 20.

Susan Chase, a lawyer for the Legal Aid Society which is working with the merchants, said, “The gist is, they didn’t have gas, they couldn’t operate their businesses.”

Skadden, a big multi-national law firm, has assigned two lawyers to help Chase appeal the decisions. “It’s a tough situation for everybody,” said Thomas Claps, who’s working on the case for Skadden.

On Tuesday, Claps said he was optimistic about the appeal, saying there is precedent in New York in cases where landlords had knowledge of events that caused their tenants to shut down their businesses. In those cases, he said, the tenants were not deemed liable for back rent.

David Rosenbaum, a lawyer for the landlord, did not return calls seeking comment.

Last Friday, Betty (she declined to give her last name) who owns Betty’s Place hair salon was shaving the head of a young customer.

Because of the time off and faulty electricity, which prevents her from taking on extra hair dressers, she said business is “horrible.” Even if the judgment against her is overturned, she said she still might leave. “Really, with all the headache, I don’t want to stay anymore.”

One Year After Fire, Norwood Strip Still Suffering

By Alex Kratz

The view from Nicky’s Pizza on the corner of Bainbridge Avenue and East 204th is devastating: dilapidated, graffiti-riddled planks of plywood fence in an empty lot on what was once a bustling corner of shops. The view serves as a grim and constant reminder of the horrific Halloween morning fire that destroyed 10 businesses there nearly one year ago.

Local residents and merchants, including Nicky’s owner Nick Delija, say the neighborhood has yet to rebound — economically or psychologically — from the fire, which was compounded by another blaze, one block down and two months later, that engulfed the area’s sole supermarket.

“It’s sad, it’s a shame, it’s bad, very bad,” Delija said on a recent Friday afternoon while furiously cleaning his small kitchen and selling the occasional slice. “I don’t have words to say [how bad it is].”

Because of the fire, Delija and others in the area say there’s less foot traffic in the area, meaning fewer people shopping at all the stores that remain standing.

Zulma Torres grew up in the south Bronx during the infamous “Bronx is burning” days of the 1970s, but now lives in Norwood. “We left the south Bronx to get out,” she said. Now, she said the empty lot in her new neighborhood is unpleasantly familiar.

“The whole neighborhood went down with [the fire],” said David Graham, who has lived in the neighborhood for seven years. “It’s an eyesore — reminds me of the south Bronx in the ’60s and ’70s.”

Graham, wearing a Mets jacket, had just picked up some goods at Hillside Meat and Deli, which was busy with customers last Friday afternoon. Hillside, just four doors up Bainbridge from the empty lot, sustained minor damage in the fire, but managed to open up five days later.

Hillside owner Sal Mirra said while business is good for him (he’s expanding and adding a new freezer section to offer more options), the area is still suffering. “It’s a shock,” Mirra said. “Nobody wants to see this happen to their neighborhood. It’s like a depressed area.”

Mirra’s wife Debora grew up in the area and said she “cried for like a month” after the fire. The fire and empty lot that remains has affected the neighborhood “terribly and in every way. You don’t really want to walk around here. There’s nothing here.”

Both Mirras expressed optimism and said they thought the area would heal, eventually. “The community will be alright once they put something on the corner,” Sal Mirra said.

The strip destroyed in the second fire, which investigators say was an act of arson, is showing signs of rebirth. The Bank of America on the corner of East 204th Street and Perry Avenue reopened in September (see sidebar), and construction of a new and improved Foodtown supermarket is under way and scheduled to open in January, according to the owners who were scheduled to update residents on their progress at a community board meeting on Tuesday night.

But the site of the first fire, the scene across from Nicky’s, remains desolate. Some of the businesses have relocated elsewhere — such as the Bainbridge Bakery, which is now Anna’s Bakery and Café in Morris Park — but some have not.

“It’s depressing to see that much of a burned out area without much of an effort to do anything with it,” said Allan Freilich, the owner of nearby Freilich Jewelers, an anchor in the community for decades.

The lot is controlled by a limited liability corporation called West Bronx Stores, which is owned by Evelyn Jacobsen. After the fire, Jacobsen said, “The plan is to get the building back up as quickly as possible.”

Since then, Jacobsen’s been difficult to get hold of, but it appears as if her plan has been to do nothing with the property. She hasn’t filed for any permits to begin any type of construction and the building doesn’t appear to be for sale, according to finance records and a handful of real estate websites.

Fernando Tirado, the district manager of Community Board 7, says Jacobsen has not responded to several attempts to contact her by mail and e-mail. Tirado wants to talk to her about the zoning changes the Board introduced earlier this year that are currently being reviewed by city planning officials.

The Board’s plan is to “downzone” the whole commercial strip to maintain the character of the block. With the current zoning regulations, Jacobsen could conceivably build a 10-story building on her empty lot, which would tower over the block’s one-story storefronts. Tirado said the new zoning would limit Jacobsen or anyone else looking to develop property on the strip to a maximum height of two stories. The changes could be adopted by early next year.

Jacobsen didn’t return several calls seeking comment.

Last week, however, a woman who said she was Jacobsen’s “secretary” (some local merchants who know her said they didn’t believe she employs a secretary) asked which property the reporter was interested in. When she heard it was the Bainbridge property, she asked “Why? Do you want to rent it?” Then she said Jacobsen would call back later in the afternoon.
 

Out & About

By Judy Noy

Editor’s Pick

Free Events at Lehman

Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., presents the following free events: Oct. 7 – Jazz saxophonist Marvin Sewell performs in the Recital Hall, room 306, Music Building, 12:30 to 2 p.m. (718) 960-8680; Oct. 12 – Ethiopian and Israeli dance event, in the Lovinger Theatre, 2 p.m. (718) 960-8025; Oct. 13 – Lecture: Fertility and Women’s Later Life Health, in Carman Hall, room 221, 2 p.m. (718) 960-7802; Oct. 14 – The art and life of opera tenor Leon Browne, Recital Hall, room 306, Music Building, 12:30 to 2 p.m. (718) 960-8680; and Oct. 21 – Traditional Irish and original folk music, Carman Hall, room B04, 12:30 to 2 p.m. (718) 960-8680.

Onstage

The Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, presents Chinese Opera Performance, Oct. 9 at 2:30 p.m.; and Ivo Tirado, Jr. and the Bronx Charanga, Oct. 16 at 2:30 p.m. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.

Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, located at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., presents Salsa Palooza, featuring Tito Rojas, Jerry Rivera and Eddie Santiago, Oct. 16 at 8 p.m. (tickets are $40 to $55). For more information or tickets, call (718) 960-8833.

Events

Bronx Underground 10th Birthday Bash, featuring bands performing everything from indie rock, to ska, to powerpop and hardcore will be held Oct. 8 at 5:30 p.m. at the First Lutheran Church of Throggs Neck, 3075 Baisley Ave. ($9 admission for all ages). Also included will be a birthday cake, giveaways, everyone’s birthday gift exchange, jewelry and clothing vendors, and more. Bring a wrapped gift to exchange and meet new friends. For more information, call (917) 804-3541 or visit bronxunderground.com or bronxunderground@gmail.com.

The Bronx Academy of Arts & Dance (BAAD), located at 841 Barretto St., presents The BlackTina Performance Series featuring a variety of events, including: Activists Caught on Camera, documentary, Oct. 7 at 8 p.m. (free); Queer People of Color Cabaret, Oct. 8 at 8 p.m. ($15); “The Aggressives,” documentary on ranges of lesbianism, Oct. 9 at 2 p.m. (free); Free Buffet Lunch, celebrating the Bronx Dance Magazine featuring Abdel Salaam, Oct. 10, 1 to 3 p.m.; Afro-Latinas in the House, featuring book discussion, art, and dance performance, Oct. 13 at 7 p.m. (free); Portrait of a Lady, documentary on transgender Barbara Herr, Oct. 14 at 8 p.m. (free); Haitian Dance, Oct. 15 at 8 p.m. ($15); Illegal Steps, featuring a variety of dances, Oct. 16 at 8 p.m. ($20); Evening of Performance and Music, Oct. 17 at 6 p.m. ($12); and Art, Dance, Video and Performance, Oct. 21 at 8 p.m. ($15). Also offered are Capoeira Dance Classes, Oct. 9, 16 and 23 at 9:30 a.m. at $7/class. For more information, call (718) 842-5223.

JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center, located at 3880 Sedgwick Ave., will feature Caruso, Oct. 10; and Carol Freeman, Yiddish/Greek folksinger and accompanist, Oct. 15; both after 12:30 p.m. lunch. For more information, call (718) 549-4700.

The Bronx River Alliance offers Bronx River Community Paddle, Oct. 16. Call (718) 430-4665 or visit www.bronxriver.org for details, fees, and times.

Woodlawn Cemetery will host the following: Open House New York, to tour private mausoleums of architects and artists, Oct. 9 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., and Oct. 10 at 11 a.m.; Nueva York at Woodlawn Cemetery, to tour final resting places of Latin luminaries, Oct. 10 at 2 p.m.; Italian Heritage at Woodlawn, to tour grave sites of famous Italians, Oct. 17 at 2 p.m. (all meet at Jerome Avenue entrance). For more information and fees, call (718) 920-1463 ext. 252.

Pelham Chamber of Commerce presents Free Pelham’s Old Fashioned Fall Fest featuring pumpkin and book sale, craft vendors, pie contest and lots of family fun including face painting and musical acts, Oct. 16, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine, located at the Pelham Street Fair on Fifth Avenue between 2nd Street and Lincoln Avenue. Prospective vendors and pie entrants may call Christine Farahat at Christine@gracious-living.com for information on participating. For more information, call (914) 740-7855.

Wave Hill, located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, offers two free family art projects: Buildings on the Land, to make your own model building using clay, cardboard, natural and recycled materials, Oct. 9 and 10; and Forest Impressions, to gather twigs and branches and make a model clay tree, Oct. 16 and 17; both in the Ecology Building from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Grounds admission is free until noon on Tuesdays and Saturdays. For more information or for tickets, call (718) 549-3200 ext. 305 or visit www.wavehill.org.

The public is invited to ride the Oct. 6 free Bronx Culture Trolley, which transports visitors to Bronx hot spots. 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. For more information and a detailed schedule, call (718) 931-9500 ext. 33 or log on to www.bronxarts.org.

Exhibits

The Bronx Council on the Arts and the Hostos Center for the Arts and Culture present Las Casas Revisited, which will have its gala opening, Oct. 6, 5 to 9 p.m. at the Hostos Community College’s Longwood Art Gallery, 450 Grand Concourse at 149th Street.. This exhibit will run from Oct. 6 through Dec. 11, Mondays through Saturdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (718) 931-9500 ext. 33.

Lehman College’s Art Gallery at 250 Bedford Pk. Blvd. W., hosts Photographing Woodlawn, a free exhibition in collaboration with Friends of the Woodlawn Cemetery, Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., through Dec. 15 (reception is Oct. 18 from 6 to 8 p.m.). For more information, call (718) 960-8731.

The New York Botanical Garden hosts the following events: Resplendent Roses, on display in the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden through the fall; The Edible Garden, a festival about growing and preparing good food, through Oct. 17, featuring numerous activities for the entire family; Greenmarket, which offers fresh local produce, to take place Wednesdays through Nov. 24 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the base of Library Allée; Family Harvest Weekend, Oct. 9, 10 and 11, to learn about cooking ideas and enjoy music, fall crafts, and more; and Fall Finale, Oct. 16 and 17, to learn about preserving your summer treats during the winter, and enjoy cooking demonstrations. Celebrate Harvest Week, Oct. 9 to 17 by making applesauce and pressing apple prints. For more information, call (718) 817-8700/8747.

The Bronx River Art Center (BRAC) presents About Me, a group exhibition, through Oct. 9 (at its temporary location at the Bronx Art Space, 305 E. 140th St., #1A. For more information, call (718) 589-5819 or visit www.bronxriverart.org.

Library Events

The Bronx Library Center, at 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd. off Fordham Road, presents the following programs: Movie Matinee: Piñero (2001), Oct. 6 at 2 p.m.; film days, Oct. 6, 13 and 20 at 4 p.m.; Meet the Authors: Virginia Sanchez Korrol and Pedro Juan Hernandez, Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m.; Unique Challenges in Caring for Premature Infants, Oct. 8 at 10 a.m.; and Hispanic Family History Fair, workshops to research Latino ancestors, Oct. 16 at 10 a.m.; all for adults; and Preschool Story Time, Oct. 7, 14 and 21 at 11 a.m.; and The Dan & Conrad Show, Oct. 16 at 2 p.m.; both for school aged children. For more information, call (718) 579-4244/46 or visit www.nypl.org.

The Mosholu Library, at 285 E. 205th St., hosts Learn to Knit, Oct. 18 at 4 p.m., for teens and young adults; and Toddler Story Time, Oct. 7 at 10:30 a.m.; Preschool Films, Oct. 14 at 10:30 a.m.; and Spooky Stories to Tingle Your Spine, Oct. 19 at 4 p.m.; all for preschoolers and school aged children. Adults and seniors can enjoy Wii, Tuesdays at 3 p.m.; and everyone can register in advance for Introduction to Microsoft Word, using laptops to create documents using this word processing program, Oct. 13, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Also offered is Free English Conversation Program, for speakers of other languages (intermediate level), for ages 16 and over; first come, first served (info: (212) 340-0918); groups meet Tuesdays from Oct. 5 through Nov. 23, 6:30 to 8 p.m. For more information, call (718) 882-8239.

Jerome Park Library, at 118 Eames Place, presents Spa-aaah Time, Oct. 7 at 4 p.m.; for teens/young adults; and Learn to Dance Salsa, Oct. 16 at 2 p.m, for adults. 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 Oct. 11 for the next publication date of Oct. 21.
 

Neighborhood Notes

By Norwood News

Flea Market Fund-raisers
The public is invited to attend flea markets which will take place as annual fund-raisers, and vendors are invited to register: On Oct. 16 at the Church of the Holy Nativity, 3061 Bainbridge Ave. at 204th Street, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (table fee is $30; call (718) 409-6912), and on Oct. 23 at the Bedford Park Congregational Church, corner of Bainbridge Avenue and 201st Street, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., (includes refreshments and a raffle; call (718) 367-8996).

Help Find Places for Street Trees
Community Board 7 is asking for volunteers who can help identify areas where trees are needed or in need of attention. Volunteers will help transform streets, parks and public spaces into beautiful green landscapes. For more information, call (718) 933-5650/51.

Classes in the Arts
Mind Builders Creative Arts Center is offering dance, music, theater and martial arts classes for all ages. Registration is held every Tuesday and Thursday from 4 to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mind Builders’ interim facility at 260 E. 207th St. For more information, visit www.mind-builders.org or call (718) 652-6256.

Workshop for Homebuyers
The nonprofit housing counseling agency Housing Action Council is hosting a workshop for first time homebuyers on Oct. 13 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Edenwald Public Library, 1255 E. 233rd St. For more information or to RSVP, call (718) 798-3355.

Love Your Block Grants
The mayor’s office and the Citizens Committee for New York City invite neighborhood groups to apply for a block transformation grant where they can receive grants from $500 to $1,000 and support from city agencies to help revitalize your block. Application deadline is Nov. 15. For more information or an application, call Saleen Shah at (212) 822-9566.

COVE Pre-Teen Program
There are still openings for the COVE Pre-Teen program, located at 3418 Gates Pl. (lower level). It is a 32-week after-school program, for ages 11 to 13, which includes homework help, arts & crafts, photography, monthly trips, and a Young Men’s or Young Women’s group. For more information, call (718) 405-1312.

Electronic Medical Records Training
The Bronx Community College will offer high technology medical courses to information technology and healthcare professionals in a new health information technology training program. For more information, call (718) 289-5178 or e-mail: Elizabeth.oliver@bcc.cuny.edu.

Art Classes at BRAC
The Bronx River Art Center offers Digital Media and Fine Arts classes for all ages after school and Saturdays. Registration will be at BRAC’s temporary location, 2064 Boston Road at 179th Street, through Oct. 9, Monday through Friday, from 3 to 6 p.m., and Saturday, Oct. 9 from noon to 4 p.m. For more information, call (718) 589-5919 or visit www.bronxriverart.org.

Foster Parents Needed
Hundreds of foster children in the area need loving and caring families to make a difference in their lives, and the Foster Care Network is reaching out to potential foster parents in the Bronx. Foster parents receive tax-free financial assistance for the expenses of each child, free training, and foster parent certification. For more information, call NY outreach coordinator Scott Burgher at (800) 454-3727, ext. 105 or visit www.fostercarenetwork.org.

Free ESL Classes
PS 94, at 3530 Kings College Place, is offering free ESL classes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 5:10 to 8:30 p.m. Interested parents can sign up in room 256 or call parent coordinator, Miriam Seminario, at (347) 563-4772.

Small Business Services
The Bronx Small Business Development Center, operated by Lehman College, is ready to assist you in obtaining financing. The Center also offers free workshops and small business consulting services to start or expand your business. For more information, call (718) 960-8806.

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.

Community Resource Fair
The Bronxwood Home for the Aged is presenting an opportunity for residents and the community to connect by accommodate speakers, booths, have various “give-aways” of information, contests, workshops and forums. The program is on Oct. 19 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 799 E. Gun Hill Rd. and Barnes Avenue. For more information, call (718) 881-9100.

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.

Shape-Up NYC
The Department of Parks & Recreation, in partnership with Equinox Fitness Clubs, is offering classes aimed at getting New Yorkers into a new habit of fitness. Classes will include yoga, pilates, zumba and intensati. All classes are ongoing, open to the public, and free of charge at St. James Recreation Center, 2530 Jerome Ave. For more information, visit nyc.gov/befitnyc.

Place for Teens With Issues
The Power Project is a free program for teens ages 12 to 18 who are dealing with substance abuse and other problems. Located at 3464 Webster Ave., Power Project provides case management, individual and group counseling, trips, and is just a place to get away from it all. For more information, call (718) 515-7971.

Kid’s Basketball Programs
Saturday afternoons the Mosholu Montifiore Center will be teaching the sport of basketball to children. The fee is $85, plus a $20 insurance for 8 sessions. For more information, call Chris Pinto (718) 882-4000 ext 280.

Volunteers Sought for Brain/Aging Study
The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University seeks volunteers ages 18 to 25 and 58 to 70 to participate in a study on aging and brain activity. The study will examine the link between age, brain activity and day-to-day functioning. It will include two visits, one for a 3-hour screening and the second a reading of brainwaves while participants complete a series of tasks, which will last from 4 to 6 hours. Participants will be paid $12/hr. For more information or to participate, call (718) 862-1828.

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.

Social Security Help
Representatives of the Social Security Administration will be at Congressman Eliot Engel’s Bronx office, 3655 Johnson Ave., on Oct. 27, to help people with questions concerning Social Security. Services are available through appointment only by calling (718) 796-9700.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Shape-Up NYC
The NYC Department of Parks & Recreation in partnership with Equinox Fitness Clubs are offering classes aimed at getting New Yorkers into a new habit of fitness. Classes will include yoga, pilates, zumba and intensati, all classes are open to the public and free of charge. Classes begin May 17 at St. James Recreation Center, 2530 Jerome Ave, or visit nyc.gov/befitnyc.

Summer Youth Employment Program
SYEP provides New York City youth between the ages of 14 and 24 with summer employment and educational opportunities. The program is designed to emphasize real-world expectations, increase awareness of services offered by community-based organizations and provide opportunities for career instruction, financial literacy, academic improvement and social growth. Apply now at application.nycsyep.com.

Summer EcoCrafts
Join Friends of Van Cortlandt Park at Van Cortlandt Park South and Gouverneur Ave., to create picture frames, puppets, masks and more natural and recycled crafts using everyday items in exciting ways.
Tuesdays, July 6 through August 24, from 11am to 2 pm.
For more information visit www.vancortladt.org or call (718) 601-1553

Garden & Compost Crew
Join Friends of Van Cortlandt Park, Thursdays July 8 through August 26 from 10 am to 1 pm, to donate to Part of the Solution, help pull weeds, turn sift compost bins, and tend to plants. Group meets near Broadway and Mosholu Avenue.
For more information visit www.vancortladt.org or call (718) 601-1553

 

A New Corner on Kingsbridge/Fordham

By Alex Gibbons

In the past six months, a Vitamin Shoppe, Subway and Planet Fitness gym have joined the already bustling Fordham Road shopping district, forming a revitalized commercial corner where Kingsbridge Road meets Fordham. 

“These three businesses are some of the projects we have been working on in Kingsbridge,” said Dan Bernstein, manager of the Fordham Road Business Improvement District (BID). “We really try and explain to business and property owners that some projects take long, but they will come.”

As with any business, the three have faced their share of obstacles since opening, but they are persevering.

“It was difficult for people to find out where we were,” said Manny Lopez, 23, manager of the Vitamin Shoppe. “After some advertising, we now have a lot of loyal customers that live in the area and used to shop in the city but can now come here.”

Planet Fitness has seen membership steadily improve since opening. “Our membership has been consistently increasing,” said Jessica Manfredi, 22, a Planet Fitness employee. “We have a lot of people who come here from Kingsbridge and Harlem. It’s convenient for them since the train (4 and D) is nearby and many people work in the area.”

Bernstein says the BID is looking to make more improvements in the Kingsbridge area, including to Bryant Park, located across the street from these three new businesses.

“Bryant Park is a $2.5 million dollar project where construction will begin in the spring of 2011,” said Bernstein, adding that he wants a good variety of shopping options in the area. “Many of the stores we put together include both private and publicly-owned businesses. It’s a healthy mix.”

 

Letters to the Editor:Tracking Crime in Parks; Mosque Editorial Off the Mark

By None

Track Crime in Parks

Thank you for your article, “Vigil for Shooting Victim in St. James Park,” which appeared on the Bronx News Network Web site and in the Norwood News (Sept. 9 – 22, 2010). This article illustrates the importance of tracking crime in parks, both for efficient use of NYPD resources and for public safety. Following several high profile crimes in parks and subsequent advocacy efforts, in December 2005, Mayor Bloomberg signed Local Law 114 mandating the tracking of the Seven Major Felony Crime Complaints in city parks. This marked significant progress towards transparency, accountability, public awareness, and efficient resource deployment. Unfortunately, after five years, we have not progressed beyond the pilot phase of the program and are still tracking only the 30 largest parks in the city. Aside from our 2007 report, “Tracking Crime in Parks,” the NYPD data is not readily available to the public. It is essential that the City continue and expand this essential program.

Thank you again for highlighting a parks issue in your recent article.

Lee Stuart
The writer is the executive director of New Yorkers for Parks. 

Mosque Editorial Off the Mark
I have to take exception to your editorial (Aug. 26 issue) regarding Mayor Bloomberg, and his “brave stance” regarding the Ground Zero mosque.

Bloomberg has the main issue of the mosque wrong. There is no one taking the position that Imam Rauf, or any other lawful person, cannot build a mosque on a site that is legally purchased, and does not violate any previous ordinances. As long as all requirements are met, with regard to building codes, etc., no one is stating that a mosque, church, or temple cannot be built.

The real question, and issue is should the mosque be built?

The correct position of opponents, and that includes the dreaded Sarah Palin, and Newt Gingrich, is that in the spirit of “building bridges” between Islam, and other religions, is the location the best choice, considering its proximity to Ground Zero, and the fact that it was actually hit by a major piece of one of the planes that devastated the Twin Towers? The answer has been no, by the majority of New Yorkers, in excess of 70 percent. There are very few topics that 70 percent of New Yorkers can agree on.

The second  point of contention is your comparing the 92nd Street YMHA, with a mosque. The century-old “Y” has been open to people of all faiths, to enjoy its facilities. The “Y” is a Center that has been funded by local New York supporters, that is not a religious center, unlike the proposed mosque, which has not disclosed its potential financial supporters.

Point three is the questionable background of the owners of the mosque’s property. Currently, he is over $250,000 in tax arrears. This is the person that Mayor Bloomberg is standing behind? I guess he has lowered the bar for friends.

Point four is Imam Rauf himself. As a “moderate imam,” he has not renounced the actions of Hamas — yes, the same group that just recently ambushed four innocent Israelis, including a pregnant woman, killing all four.

No, Mayor Bloomberg is not brave — he is a fool.

Michael Schwartz
The writer,  a New Jersey resident, was born and raised in University Heights.

Be Healthy: B’N Fit Walk at Oval

By Norwood News

Montefiore Medical Center is sponsoring a two-mile Run/Walk on Thursday, Oct. 21, from noon to 2 p.m. at Williamsbridge Oval Park. The event aims to raise awareness and encourage the local community to make the commitment to be physically active since this is one of the best ways to prevent and combat obesity. A suggested $10 donation will benefit B’N Fit, a Montefiore program that teaches teens how to adopt healthy, physically active lifestyles. Registration is available online at giving.montefiore.org/ptwalk or participants can register at the day of the event. For more information, call Thea Katrina Rigor at (718) 920-2287.

 

Be Healthy: Q&A With Peter Selwyn, MD

By Alex Kratz

Dr. Peter Selwyn became head of the recently formed Office of Community Health at Montefiore Medical Center two years ago.

The Bronx was recently named the unhealthiest county in New York. Is this true?
Yeah. If you look at the other numbers, the Bronx has the highest prevalence of people who are overweight in the city. It’s over 60 percent . . . diabetes rates are also very high. There’s some variation in the borough [in terms of some areas being worse than others], but overall it seems the combination of poverty, probably some of the environmental conditions in which access to fresh produce or more nutritious food and healthy spaces for physical activity are more limited than some other areas, populations of people who are recent immigrants who may not be insured and interacting effectively with the social services, all these things combined [make it the unhealthiest county].

What can a medical facility do to make the Bronx healthier?
When you look at the interventions one can do when dealing with the outcomes related to, say, obesity or diabetes, what a medical facility can do ranges from the one-on-one patient encounter [with a doctor], to things that can happen with groups of patients to things that can happen with a larger population that may be at risk for a condition and things that can happen with a broader community.

You need to find an array of ways in which to both better organize and provide the medical care and better encourage the interventions that will allow people to be living in environments that have more choice and more access to help promoting healthy behaviors. I think the mantra of the public health sector is: make the healthy choice, the easy choice.

What are some simple steps people can take to improve their health?
If you smoke, stop smoking. There are resources to help people do that through the city Health Department.
Increasing the level of physical activity. Some people get fixated on they have to join a gym or work out or get in good shape. But it doesn’t have to be going to the gym. It can be walking. Walking is extremely beneficial. Get off the subway one stop before your regular stop and walking the extra blocks home. Or whenever you can, take the stairs.

Stay away from high-caloric foods with a lot of fat and sugar in them — also foods with a lot of salt aren’t good.

And increasing the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables people eat. Whole grains. Decreasing red meat. One thing that is an extremely good protein source that is cheap and also has a lot of fiber in it is beans. Beans are a terrific staple that also can be used in a variety of different cultures and cuisines of different nationalities. Also, if there’s any way to reduce the amount of soda drunk, especially by adolescents. It causes not only weight gain, but increases the risk of diabetes.

Public and Community Meetings

By Norwood News

•    The Bedford Mosholu Community Association will meet on Wednesday, Oct. 6 at 8 p.m. at 400 E. Mosholu Pkwy. So., apt. B1 (lobby floor). All are welcome.
•    Community Board 7 will hold its general meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center, 3450 DeKalb Ave. For all community board meetings or more information, call (718) 933-5650.
•    The Community District 10 Education Council will meet on Thursday Oct. 21 at 6:30 p.m. For location and/or more information, call (718) 741-5836.
•    The 52nd Precinct Community Council will meet on Thursday, Oct. 28, at 7 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church, 2500 Jerome Ave. For more information, call (718) 220-5824. 
 

Reform Troops Head Upstate

By Jeanmarie Evelly

What will Bill Samuels and his New Roosevelt Initiative political action group do now that they’ve reached their goal of defeating Pedro Espada in the 33rd Senate District?

According to a press release, they’re taking their show on the road—and bringing Gustavo Rivera with them—to throw support behind Mary Wilmot, a Democratic candidate running for State Senate in Rochester against a Republican incumbent.

The most-likely-to-be-elected Rivera was in Rochester today to officially endorse Wilmot, who, in turn, had endorsed him against Espada back in August. Rivera, who is all but assured a victory in the general election in his heavily Democratic district, said in an interview after his primary victory that his priority now is helping make sure Democrats retain majority control in Albany. They currently hold a 32-30 majority.

Samuels, a wealthy businessman and former candidate for lieutenant governor, founded the New Roosevelt Initiative this year to change Albany, he says, by helping to elect more “reform-minded candidates.”  His group spent much of the summer campaigning in the Bronx against Espada, handing out leaflets, knocking on doors and pledging $250,000 to see Rivera on the ballot instead.

NRI said the group’s next move is to help get more women elected to the legislature. The general election will be on Tuesday, Nov. 2. 
 

Meet Joe Mac, a Republican Hoping for Voter Anger, Miracle

By Alex Kratz

Joe McLaughlin, a former high school football star turned Republican candidate in the 81st Assembly District, is trying to script a Rudy-like underdog story as the general election approaches on Nov. 2.

Just as Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger overcame his diminutive stature to play football for Notre Dame, McLaughlin hopes to overcome near impossible odds to defeat Democrat Jeff Dinowitz, a 16-year assembly veteran. 

In the Bronx, Republicans are outnumbered nearly 6 to 1 by Democrats. There hasn’t been a Republican elected official in the borough since State Senator Guy Velella, who was convicted on bribery charges in 2004. (McLaughlin, interestingly, doesn’t mention his Republican party in any of his campaign literature.)

In the last general election, Dinowitz garnered more than 95 percent of the district’s votes and routinely takes home at least 75 percent of the vote.

Still, Joe “Mac” says he’s in the race and basically self financing his campaign to give people a choice.  He’s going around knocking on doors and asking people if they’re happy with how things are going in Albany with the state legislature. “I haven’t had a lot of people slamming the door in my face,” he says.

McLaughlin’s campaign motto is, “Vote for Joe Mac. He’s one of us.” His story is in the classic pull-yourself-up-by-the-­bootstraps mold. McLaughlin was one of seven kids raised by a single mom in Kingsbridge Heights. He went to college on a full football scholarship after starring at Cardinal Spellman High School.

He’s spent most of his career in the finance industry and now works for The Mulholland Group, a Queens-based housing company that specializes in acquiring and enhancing low-income housing. They do business in most parts of the country, except “New York and other areas with rent controls,” according to the company’s website.

Now living in Riverdale with his wife and two young daughters, McLaughlin, 42, says he “couldn’t sit on sidelines” and watch the problems going on in Albany.
Aside from running on the “Albany’s broken” platform, McLaughlin says he wants to bring fiscal responsibility to the state’s bloated budget and enact tax cuts to spur business and job growth.

He also wants non-partisan independent redistricting implemented (“to bring the power back to the voters,” he says), which is one of three pledges he signed on to as part of former Democratic mayor Ed Koch’s New York Uprising political reform campaign. The Uprising’s other pledges include bringing responsible budgeting and ethics reform to Albany.

McLaughlin called out Dinowitz for not signing on to Koch’s reform package in a letter he sent to the campaign of Democratic gubernatorial candidate Andrew Cuomo, who did sign on the pledge. In the letter, McLaughlin asked for Cuomo’s endorsement, saying they both wanted reform, whereas Dinowitz is an “enemy of reform,” according to Koch.

“Who died and made Ed Koch an expert on reform?” Dinowitz said in an interview after admitting he didn’t know anything about McLaughlin, including his name.

Dinowitz said he doesn’t sign pledges, “generally speaking,” but that he agrees with most of the reforms Koch outlines. Still, he placed most of the blame for Albany’s dysfunction on Republicans who, up until 2009, controlled the State Senate for more than 40 years.

Now, with Democrats hanging on to a slim majority in the Senate, little is happening in the way of legislation because Republicans are “the party of no,” Dinowitz says, meaning all 32 Senate Democrats need to agree if they want to pass legislation. Dinowitz said the recent ousting of Bronx State Senator Pedro Espada, Jr., who briefly sided with Republicans two summers ago, will help.

“Are there problems with Albany? Of course,” Dinowitz says. But he’s not worried that it will affect him in this year’s election.

“I’m sure I’ll get at least 75 percent of the votes. I don’t want to be cocky,” he said. “[Voters] may not agree with me on everything, but they know I work hard for the neighborhood.”

McLaughlin does have one thing going for him: he went to Holy Cross, the same school Rudy attended before transferring to Notre Dame. 

 

Mystery Buyer Worries Tenants in Violation-Plagued Bldgs.

By Jeanmarie Evelly

Tenants from 10 crumbling Bronx buildings gathered in the courtyard of 2770 Kingsbridge Terrace on Sept. 29 for an emotional candlelit prayer vigil, fed up with conditions in apartments that many describe as unlivable.

Their homes, which include 2505 Aqueduct Ave., 2500 University Ave., and 75 W. 190th St.,  have been in foreclosure proceedings since private equity firm Milbank Real Estate defaulted on its $35 million mortgage last year. Now, the buildings are in the process of being sold to a mystery buyer who refuses to be identified, and residents and advocates worry the sale will mean more neglect.

“We shouldn’t have to live like this,” said Sergio Cuevas, whose apartment at 2785 Sedgwick Ave. is plagued by leaks, mold and rotting floors. “I don’t invite anyone over to my home.”

The vigil was held just hours after a Bronx Supreme Court judge ordered LNR Property LLC, the servicer to the loan attached to the buildings, to pay $2.5 million in the next 30 days to start repairs on some 3,000 violations. Housing advocates hailed the decision as a milestone.

“As far as I know, this is the first decision of this kind,” said Jonathan Levy of Legal Services-NYC, which filed the legal motion on behalf of tenants.

Housing advocates and a number of city and Bronx elected officials have stepped up efforts in recent months to draw attention to situations like Milbank’s. During the housing boom, private equity firms bought up buildings across the city, particularly in low-income neighborhoods, in hopes of making renovations and hiking rents.

But experts say many of these companies were overly optimistic, and when income wasn’t enough to cover mortgage payments, the owners skimped on maintenance to save money or defaulted on their loans, while tenants’ apartments deteriorated.

“These buildings are in this condition because of greedy speculation, plain and simple,” said City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, who launched a program in September that assesses damage in overleveraged buildings, in the hopes that a more detailed list of needs could help tenants advocate for repairs. Her City Council report estimates it could cost up to $26 million to make Milbank’s 10 properties livable.

But Ray Radparvar, an assistant property manager at Milbank’s Bronx office who oversaw the buildings before their foreclosure, said the report’s cost estimates are an extreme overshot. “I managed these buildings for three years,” he said. “There’s no way you would need $20 million in repairs.”

The 10 properties were already in bad shape when Milbank bought them in 2006, Radparvar says, and the company did make renovations to fix them up. When they had trouble making mortgage payments, they tried to negotiate with lender Wells Fargo, but to no avail.

The bank initiated foreclosure proceedings in April 2009. The courts appointed Joseph Cicciu, from Bronx housing group Belmont Arthur LDC, as receiver for the properties, in charge of collecting rent and making repairs.

Radparvar says the buildings have gotten worse since Cicciu and his group took over. “They’re bringing our name down,” he said.

Cicciu, however, insists that many of the units were already “complete disasters” when he became receiver, and that he’s doing the best he can with the money that’s available.

Nearly a quarter of the apartments in the portfolio are vacant. “There are still people living in conditions that they shouldn’t be living in,” he said. “There just aren’t the dollars.”

The $2.5 million that LNR has been ordered to pay should help in fixing the properties’ problems, though Dina Levy, an organizer for the housing group UHAB, said it’s unclear if the order would stand if LNR succeeds in transferring the properties to a new owner.

Tenants, led by organizers from the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition, want HPD to block the sale, and have demanded the potential mystery buyer come forward. They worry a new owner won’t be able to afford needed renovations on properties saddled with so much debt. An HPD spokesman said the agency has little power to intervene in the sale, since it’s a private deal.

LNR has declined to comment.

Milbank’s residents have made it clear that they’ll keep fighting to fix their homes. At last week’s vigil, dozens of tenants stood in a circle with flickering candles, singing and reciting prayers. “Together, our voice will be heard. We cannot give up,” said Sedgwick Avenue resident Maggie Maldonado, in a rousing speech met with cheers from the crowd.
 

After Bust, A Drug Alley No Longer

By Alex Kratz

The stretch of Valentine Avenue, between East 194th and 196th streets, has proven ideal for a thriving illegal drug trade. It’s a one-way, southbound. It’s not intersected on 195th Street. And there’s a slight bend in the canyon-like corridor of six-story apartment buildings, making it easy for lookouts to spot oncoming police cars.

For five years, up until a huge bust this past summer, police say the La Perla Organization — a hierarchical network of drug dealers, many of them associated with the Latin Kings gang — turned this stretch into a lucrative heroin business that generated $25,000 to $40,000 a day in street-level sales. Longtime residents say drug dealing had been a problem for decades, but never was it this organized or dominant.

Today, more than two months after police arrested 31 suspects, seized $1.5 million in cash and four kilograms of heroin, the block is essentially drug free, residents say.

They hope it stays that way.

A Neighborhood Gone Bad

Go back 40 years on Valentine Avenue, Carol Sisti says, and you would see a “beautiful” block comprised of hardworking families, mostly Irish and Albanian.

The neighborhood’s ethnic makeup has changed, but it’s still made up of working-class families, says John Reilly, the executive director of Fordham Bedford Housing, which manages five buildings on the block. But the years have not been kind to Valentine or many of the surrounding blocks, which have been plagued by drug dealing and violence for three decades.

Now one of the longest tenured residents on Valentine, Sisti says she’s struggling to raise her two young grandchildren on the block. “I don’t let them out,” she says.

During the late 1970s and early 1980s, the block’s buildings began falling into disrepair and several were all but abandoned. Many residents left and new immigrants moved in. This coincided with a citywide drug trafficking epidemic that Valentine, as well as surrounding blocks, fell victim to.

During the early 1980s, many young community organizers moved into buildings on Valentine, injecting positive energy and activism into the block. Much of the housing was rehabbed. But most of those activists moved on and started families elsewhere. 

Years, and several policing initiatives later — some successful, but only temporarily — the area of the 52nd Precinct known as Sector G (or George) remains a hotspot for drug activity and its partner in crime, violence. Valentine was the area’s poster child.

In 1993, The New York Times Magazine ran a 10,000-word cover story about the city’s short-lived attempt at a community policing initiative centered on one beat cop in Sector G. In it, the reporter calls the drug dealers “organized” and “ruthless” and describes the bloody scene after one of them was shot to death on Valentine. 

Hitting Rock Bottom

In June, federal drug czar Gil Kerlikowske took a tour around Sector G with Monsignor John Jenik of Our Lady of Refuge, a Catholic church on 196th Street. In 1985, he put up several wooden crosses emblazoned with the words, “Drugs Crucify.” He used to hold mass on the streets at popular drug spots, but hasn’t done so for several years as the problems continued unabated.

Patrick Wynne, a Fordham University graduate, moved into the neighborhood 15 years ago. He now lives in the same apartment his wife moved into with her family 25 years ago. Together with their two young children, they call Valentine Avenue home.

Despite its imperfections, Wynne said his family didn’t really consider leaving the area until 2005, about the same time the Bronx District Attorney’s office says La Perla began its takeover operation. “We’ve got to get out of here,” Wynne and his wife began saying.  

The block became an open market for drug trafficking, with groups of dealers clustered in front of every other building and junkies travelling from near (around the block) and far (Connecticut, New Jersey) to cop brand names like “LaPerla,” “Salsa,” and “Sabroso,” according to residents and the Bronx District Attorney’s office. 

While violence was rare, the dealers operated with impunity and little regard for the families and kids who navigated the dealers on a daily basis — on their way to work, to school or just to pick up milk at the local bodega.

“It was chaos, man,” says Luis Pena, who has lived on the block for 10 years. “It was ridiculous, twenty-four-seven.”

“They were selling heroin right in front of kids,” Sisti says.
While he never felt threatened, Pena called the experience “annoying.” Eileen Mahoney, a 30-year resident of Valentine, said neighbors began calling the block “drug alley.”

“I’d see [the dealers] in front of the door and say, ‘No disrespect, but can you move,’” Wynne says he would often tell them. “And they would, but then the next day they’d be back or one building over.”

The Big Bust

Despite the relentless crusading of a handful of vocal community members, including Jenik, and promises by past commanding officers of the 52nd Precinct to increase patrols in the area, the drug problems persisted.

In late 2009, however, the NYPD major case squad and the Bronx District Attorney’s office began a joint investigation into La Perla, which prosecutors say also sold heroin at two other locations besides Valentine — 157th Street and Gerard Avenue, near Yankee Stadium, and 180th Street and Mohegan Avenue, just south of Crotona Park.

Reports from the sprawling investigation read like something out of “The Wire.” They tapped 28 phone lines, conducted video surveillance and made numerous heroin “buys” using undercover detectives. On top of the $1.5 million in cash and 31 arrests, police also recovered four guns, confiscated 12 vehicles and a bunch of bling, including diamond earrings, a Cuban link chain and Breitling watches.

After the arrests, “the next day, we knew it,” Mahoney says.

“We were wondering where everybody went,” says Wynne, who in many ways, feels for those arrested and their families.  “They were very competent, very organized,” he says.” Wynne wonders why they couldn’t have channeled those skills into something more productive. The bigger problem, he says, is that with few area community centers and after-school programs, these dealers “had no alternatives, no resources” to do something else.

Drug dealing remains prevalent in the surrounding area. Reilly says the dealing has increased on 198th Street, near Valentine. Problems remain on 194th Street, around Decatur and Marion avenues, where there was a triple shooting earlier this year.

“What they did [on Valentine] was effective,” Reilly says. “But it didn’t really have an impact elsewhere.”

John D’Adamo, the commander of the 52nd Precinct, said the area around 194th Street is now part of an Impact Zone, which means the area is foot-patrolled by rookie cops. He said the precinct was “doing maintenance work” in the area to avoid a La Perla repeat. 

Last week on Valentine, kids happily skipped by with their parents. It was quiet, aside from a distant salsa beat playing from a building window. People stopped and chatted.

“Feels like a different area,” Pena says.

Despite the possibility that a competitor might come and take advantage of Valentine’s unique, drug-trade-friendly features, residents said they think it won’t ever be as bad as before.

And for now, Wynne says, “That tension,” he pauses, a breeze passes by, “is just gone.”
 

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• Wednesday’s Bronx News Links Wed, Feb 22 at 3:17pm
• Local Initiative Puts Focus on Teens’ Reproductive Health Wed, Feb 22 at 12:33pm
• Bicycles and Basketballs Could be in the Armory’s Future Wed, Feb 22 at 5:58am

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