Lawmakers Strike Redistricting Deal; How The Bronx Will Be Affected By Controversial New Lines

After months of debate, state lawmakers and Gov. Andrew Cuomo approved a redistricting deal last week that will re-set State Senate and Assembly lines for the next decade, and establish an independent commission to take over the process after the next Census in 2020 — a plan that many local leaders are unhappy with.

An Entrepreneur Takes Advantage of Still Empty Kingsbridge Armory

The future of the Kingsbridge Armory is still undecided, though Mayor Bloomberg’s new round of RFPs (Request for Proposals) for plans on redeveloping the site are due today. In the meantime, one Latin American entrepreneur is taking advantage of the enormous space.

DOE Plans to Close Middle School 80

Amid a backdrop of plummeting test scores, gang problems and a bitter showdown between the teachers union and the Department of Education, Middle School 80 in Norwood is facing closure and a complete overhaul of its staff and administration.

Be Healthy! Wednesdays: Proposed Medicaid Savings Could Mean Financial Hardships

For years, those caring for an ill, disabled or elderly spouse at home through the public insurance program have been able to protect their savings through a provision known as spousal refusal — which allows someone to separate their income and assets from their partner who needs care in order to meet the strict income limits required by Medicaid. But now it may be eliminated.

Bronx Activists Push for ‘Sustainable’ Armory

Two Bronx groups that were integral in leading the City Council defeat of a shopping mall plan for the Kingsbridge Armory in 2009 are continuing their efforts to see the space redeveloped responsibly, pushing for a community use for the long-vacant building.

After Renovations, Poe Cottage Opens Its Doors

Edgar Allan Poe Cottage, where the famous writer spent the final years of his life, recently reopened after more than a year of renovation.

Raising Money for Healthy Smiles

Norwood Dentist Dr. Jay Fensterstock jumped into the holiday spirit early this past winter. By sponsoring a charity drive selling “Holiday Teeth,” Concerned Dental Care raised $1,800 in donations that were sent to Healthy Smiles, Healthy Children, a charity sponsored by The Foundation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Healthy Smiles, Healthy Children aides low income families that cannot afford dental procedures.

Bronx Crime Watch: Robbery Suspect, Arrests in Two Shootings

This past fall, police say a single suspect was responsible for seven home burglaries in Norwood and Bedford Park. In almost all of the cases, the suspect entered through the front door during daylight hours and left with as much cash and jewelry as they could carry.

Bronx Business: Seeking Ways to Assist Bronx Entrepreneurs

Immigrants and minorities who want to start and expand businesses in the Bronx face many obstacles, but most entrepreneurs are not aware of the programs out there that can help them overcome those obstacles.