Preparing For Months, Michael Blake Ascends to 79th Assembly Seat on Dec. 15

By David Cruz The waitress at Symphony Diner quickly recognized Michael Blake. He ordered his usual—a western omelet with a side of orange juice. For the past few months, the man who’s gone from White House aide for President Barack Obama to the newest Assemblyman of the 79th District has been on fact-finding excursion, becoming a familiar face within the district he’s poised to represent.

Inquiring Photographer – Heat & Hot Water Issues

By DAVID GREENE This week we asked readers if they have heat and hot water problems as temperatures drop and how fast their landlords make needed repairs.

Beloved Norwood Pastor Dies at 83

by David Greene Cardinal Timothy Dolan is expected to lead a funeral service this weekend for a revered Norwood pastor who passed away this week.

Digital Edition of the Norwood News Is Out!

by David Cruz Thursday ushers in the latest edition of the Norwood News, available at nearly 300 locations throughout the northwest Bronx. This week we delve into a five-year cluster site in Norwood that’s apparently worn out its welcome, according to rent paying tenants. The Norwood News spoke to both sides, who largely feel misunderstood. We also look at the Stagg Group as it edges closer to opening its three-building complex along Webster Avenue. By and large the buildings are deemed the linchpin to the building boom happening along the northwest Bronx corridor. Hear what residents have to say about the market rate

By CATHARINA THUEMLING and DAVID CRUZ Former Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion has gone into the private sector, accepting a job as vice president of a construction developer after months serving as its lobbyist. Carrion, who moved on to briefly become Director of Housing and Urban Development for the White House, will work for Stagg Group as Strategic Advisor and Executive Vice President. The Stagg Group has been developing a trio of apartment buildings on Webster Avenue, kicking off a series of development projects along the corridor. “We are excited to have Adolfo on our team and recognize the value of

By Janaki Chadha Community Board 7’s adding some spark to the holidays with its annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony.

Kingsbridge Native Brings a Touch of the Bronx to El Salvador

By Janaki Chadha Kingsbridge native Jade Vasquez has wanted to join the Peace Corps since she was a high school student. Now, she is part of the organization as a Youth Development Volunteer in rural El Salvador, working with at-risk youth in a community where higher education is scarce and gang violence and poverty are rampant.

Out & About: Kicking Off the Holidays

Editor’s Pick Holiday Tree Lightings The public is invited to two Christmas tree lightings in Norwood. One sponsored by the Jerome-Gun Hill BID is on Dec. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Greenstreets Park on Jerome Avenue and Mosholu Parkway North (info: (718) 324-4946); and the other sponsored by Community Board 7 is on Dec. 11 at 6 p.m. on Mosholu Parkway and Bainbridge Avenue (info: (718) 933-5650).

Neighborhood Notes

Best Libraries Nominations Nominations by the public for the second annual NYC Neighborhood Library Awards run until Dec. 12. The five best libraries win $20,000 each. Nominations can be submitted at www.nyclibraryawards.org. Domestic Violence Legal Outreach Legal services for domestic violence victims is available on Monday, Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the office of Councilman Andy King, 940 E. Gun Hill Rd. Attorneys with the Urban Justice Center will advise victims about family law, child support, custody, visitation rights and orders of protection. Reservations are required. For more information, call (718) 684-5509. Veterans Food Drive Non-perishable