Fire Destroys Portion of Shopping Strip in Mount Hope

by David Greene An army of firefighters battled a wind-fueled fire that tore through a row of businesses in Mount Hope, destroying at least two stores and at least two other stores suffered extensive damage.

Neighborhood Notes

Charter School Open House Tech International Charter School at 3120 Corlear Avenue in Kingsbridge Heights holds an open house on Thursday, March 27 at 5:30pm. Online Auction The Van Cortlandt Jewish Center is running an online auction now through March 31st. Visit www.biddingforgood.com/vcjc to view and bid on items. Place your bid now to support the VCJC! Homebuyer Counseling & Free Tax prep The University Neighborhood Housing Program holds homebuyer counseling sessions at the Northwest Bronx Resource Center, 2715 Bainbridge Ave., offering free one-on-one professional assistance (appointments are available on the first and third Friday of every month) and free tax preparation sessions most

Editor’s Pick Zumba at the Oval The public is invited to join ongoing zumba sessions at the Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center, 3225 Reservoir Oval E., Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at noon. No registration is required. For more information, call (718) 543-8672.

In delayed opening of NCBH ward, pol seeks assurances

by David Cruz As North Central Bronx Hospital’s maternity ward still awaits an opening, elected officials have pressed the hospital to provide regular updates. Officials at an evening meeting on March 18th agreed. The suggestion was put forth by Councilman Ritchie Torres, whose 15th Council District lands within the hospital, urged NCBH attending officials to consider the move during the gathering. He had already secured a commitment with NCBH officials during a health committee hearing, agreeing to monthly meetings. But while he did get assurances that NCBH would continue holding public forums, hospital brass said the gatherings may happen once

Finally, the first day of spring is upon us! What better way to saying goodbye to the rough winter by getting your copy of the Norwood News! This week we delve into how much the prairie known as Mosholu Parkway was impacted by the snow storms. As snow melted, residents found the leafy landscape loaded with garbage. Reporter Justin McCallum dug into the story and found some very interesting tidbits. Another story looks at this year’s frosty election season, focusing on the 78th Assembly District, where incumbent Jose Rivera faces a challenger–former Community Board 7 district manager Fernando Tirado. Rivera has remained

By DAVID CRUZ At the Sea Shore Restaurant in City Island, a medium-size crowd turned up for Assemblyman Jose Rivera’s fundraiser on March 7. Rivera took to the dance floor, ushered in his daughter, former Assemblywoman Naomi Rivera, and even schmoozed with her opponent, current Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj. He was in his comfort zone, engaging with supporters bearing donations. For nearly 50 years, Rivera has stood virtually untouchable. He shattered racial barriers in a Bronx legislative caucus that was largely white, serving as a power groomer for rising Puerto Rican legislators like him, reflecting the changing demographics of the Bronx.

By DAVID CRUZ

by David Cruz When Eva Bornstein was asked to describe the atmosphere at Lehman Center for the Performing Arts prior to becoming its executive director, she turned to her secretary who knew the history beforehand. “Very dead, very sparse,” the secretary said bluntly. “We had no movement.” That was nearly 10 years ago. These days, Bornstein has inspired the borough’s cultural jewel to get its second wind, showcasing some big names in its theater while also shattering borough stereotypes. Not bad, considering performers often prefer to showcase their talents at Madison Square Garden or Radio City rather than a venue

NCBH will Deliver Late on Maternity Ward

By Justin McCallum NOTE: Community members are welcome to voice their concerns of the closure at a meeting with HHC, elected officials and advocates on Tuesday, March 18 at North Central Bronx Hospital at 6:30p.m. Amid growing unrest over closure of their maternity ward, North Central Bronx Hospital officials assured the community of their ongoing commitment to reopening the ward.

Viewing the Bronx from the Eyes of Daniel Hauben

By Hayley Camacho For artist Daniel Hauben the question, ‘Why do you paint the Bronx?’ can be answered with a similar question, ‘Why not paint the Bronx?’ “I live here,” he said. “Just as Monet painted his environment that happened to be Giverny and the beautiful gardens, my environment is the Bronx. It’s got plenty of possibilities.”