Arts Festival to Celebrate Bronx’s Rebirth, Unsung Artists

Decades ago, when the Bronx was infested with crime and drugs, negative views plagued the borough, darkened its beauty, and cloaked the talents of its residents. It seemed as if the borough would never see the light of a new day. Today, all kinds of positive things are happening, including a new arts festival designed to showcase the borough’s unsung artist.

Op-ed: Why NYPD Needs an Inspector General

In June of 2012, the City Council introduced a bill that would establish the office of Inspector General for the Police Department. The office would oversee the policies and practices of the NYPD and analyze the effect of those policies and practices on civil liberties, among other things. Mayor Bloomberg has expressed serious opposition to the bill, promising to veto the legislation and describing the creation of an Inspector General’s office as mere “politics” that tamper with public safety. The mayor could not be more wrong.

Underdog Candidate in 11th District Hypes Local Endorsement

While Andrew Cohen, the establishment favorite in the 11th District Council race, continues to trot out a cavalcade of endorsements, from the city’s most powerful labor unions to the Bronx borough president, his chief rival, Cliff Stanton, was thrilled to announce the backing of a small political club based in Norwood and Bedford Park.

25-Year-old Winning Money Game in 15th District Race (Corrected)

The race to replace Joel Rivera as City Council representative in District 15, which includes the Fordham-Bedford area, is shaping into the most unpredictable and interesting race in the Bronx this year.

Bronx Notes: Gun Violence Talk at BCC

Bronx Community College, 2155 University Ave., hosts a free forum and panel discussion on gun violence, April 11, from noon to 2 p.m., in its Gould Memorial Library auditorium. For more information, call (718) 289-5770.

Klein’s State Budget Deal Leaves Local Dems Wanting

Bronx Democrat Jeff Klein, who represents a whiff of Bedford Park and is the co-leader of the State Senate, trumpeted the state budget deal hammered out last week as the most “family friendly budget in a generation.” But many Democrats outside of Klein’s five-person Independent Democratic Conference say Klein compromised too much, to the detriment of Bronx families.

Lawsuit Charges Woodlawn Cemetery With Discrimination

A group of workers filed a federal lawsuit against Woodlawn Cemetery, saying they are seeking justice for all workers subjected to racism at the northwest Bronx historical landmark.

On the Road to School Reform, Bus Rides Into the Bronx

Frustrated by the Department of Education’s policies under the control of Mayor Michael Bloomberg, a coalition of community groups calling itself A+NYC is looking for a fresh start under the next mayor.

Out & About: What’s Going On in the Bronx

The Norwood News’ Out & About feature highlights arts, entertainment and recreational events throughout the Bronx as well as local library happenings in the northwest part of the borough.