With One Month Before Primary, Bronx Political Forces at Play

By MARTIKA ORNELLA and DAVID CRUZ

A sleepy political race and quiet political machinations abut a closely-watched contest ahead of the Sept. 13 Democratic primary, which could see a dramatic shift in representation across the borough. The theme of progressivism has coursed through key races in the Bronx, thanks to political histrionics coming out of Washington, D.C. It began with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the socialist Democrat beating established frontrunner Congressman Joe Crowley in the June 26 Democratic primary in a race that pitted an outsider against an insider. That theme has spilled onto the race for the 34th Senate District between Alessandra Biaggi, an attorney who once

Neighborhood Notes: Free Immigration Service

As has been the case for years, the Norwood News will be taking its summer hiatus, and this current edition will cover virtually the entire month of August. This means readers won’t see another print edition until Aug. 30. We’ll be around, of course. You’ll find our bylines on the website, www.norwoodnews.org. You may also continue to send tips, letters, and story ideas to Editor-in-Chief David Cruz at dcruz@norwoodnews.org or norwoodnews@norwoodnews.org.

Health Check: When is a Drink a Drink in the Summer?

By PAULETTE GIAMBALVO, MPH, CHES

During the summer, many adult Bronxites may find themselves drinking more fluids, including adult beverages ranging from beer to specialty drinks at restaurants or at home. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes certain groups should not drink at all, including those under the legal drinking age of 21, women who are or may become pregnant, people who are driving, planning to drive, or are participating in other activities requiring skill, coordination, and alertness. Also, people taking certain prescription or over-the-counter medications that can interact with alcohol, people with certain medical conditions and people who are recovering from

At NYCHA’s Bailey Houses Quality of Life Impacts Mental Health

By DAVID CRUZ

Though Tiesha Jones comes from a tight-knit family, hosting a holiday gathering with her extended family remains out of the question. Living for the past four years in Bailey Houses, a decrepit complex that’s home to some 900 tenants, Jones is embarrassed over her living quarters. From the first floor up to its last, a list of fixes is required at the 20-story property overlooking the Major Deegan Expressway. A faulty plumbing system, sloppy patchwork and caved-in ceilings characterize Bailey Houses, a property belonging to the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) that was built in 1972. Enduring years of

By DAVID CRUZ

THIS MURAL DUBBED “Our Everyday Heroes: Using our Hidden Strengths to Overcome Adversity, Combat Mental Health Stigma and Help our World”, found at the 176th Street corridor between Jerome and Davidson avenues, debuted this summer as part of the city Health Department’s awareness campaign for mental health. The mural was created by local muralist Jon Souza who said the mural “is the result of a lot of hard work, dedication, and creativity.” Photo courtesy New York City Health Department

Twin Donut Closes Suddenly, With No Word on Reopening

Twin Donut Suddenly Closes With No Word on Reopening

By SOPHIA EBANKS

A long-standing donut shop in Norwood closed suddenly towards the end of July without notice. Twin Donut Plus, located at 3396 Jerome Ave. at the corner of East 210th Street, has inexplicably shut down since July 23. The eatery appears vacant, with a few tables left and dozens of handwritten “closed” signs taped to the windows. Passersby have paused in front of the fast food casual restaurant, peering inside to spot tables and chairs left just where they’re normally spotted. The store was usually open 24 hours a day, serving sandwiches, donuts, and other desserts. “They might come back. They

Editor’s Pick National Nights Out The public is invited to the following National Nights Out Against Crime held by local police precincts on Aug. 7 as follows:52nd – At Poe Park, Grand Concourse and Kingsbridge Road from 5 to 8 p.m. Events include Bingo, face makeovers, raffles, pony rides, games, face painting, food, and drinks. 47th – At Grenada Place between Ely and Laconia avenues (across the street from the 47th Precinct), from 4 to 8 p.m. Events include games, music, rides, ices, and entertainment. Onstage Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Rd., presents Concert: Songs Sinatra Sang: featuring singer

By DAVID CRUZ

Dear Fellow Readers, The latest edition of the Norwood News is out, though this time it’s our traditional one-month edition. That’s right, one month. But it’s packed with plenty of news that will get you talking for the month so let’s start with page one. Our epic page one story focuses on several political rumblings and races heading into the September primary. For the Bronx, that’s usually a time where Democrats will decide who will want to be their general election nominee. You’ll hear from the candidates in the closely watched 34th Senate District and the lone nominee for the

By CHRISTY RAE AMMONS

Several proposals are under way to provide banking services, such as ATMs, paycheck cashing, bill payment, electronic money transfers and small-dollar loans, at Bronx post offices in hopes of making residents less reliant on alternative financial services. While the proposals are being championed by the postal union and federal legislators representing the Bronx, Community Board 7’s district manager, Ischia Bravo, worries about the Postal Service biting off more responsibility than it can chew. “Overall, and my board agrees, we think it’s a good idea for a pilot program to begin; however, you know, given the underlying issues that the post