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Volume XIX • Number 46 • Nov. 29 - Dec. 5, 2012 •

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Housing, commercial space planned for gas station By MIAWLING LAM A North Riverdale gas station will be completely razed to make way for a new multi-story, mixed-use development comprised of senior housing and commercial space. The Riverdale Review can reveal that the nonproﬁt organization Selfhelp Community Services Inc. has submitted plans to redevelop the Gulf gas station site located at 6469 Broadway. Filings submitted to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation show the group has proposed a building with up to 95 units of senior housing on the 17,424square-foot site. Under the plan, the project will boast up to 28 parking spaces and up to 12,000 square feet of “community facility space.” According to its mission statement, Selfhelp is dedicated to enabling the elderly and other at-risk populations to live in their own homes, independently and with dignity. The project is an as-of-right development, so it does not require community board approval. The plan is still going through the approvals process, but the contaminated site must first undergo a major cleanup. Laboratory tests reveal a range of toxic chemicals, including petroleum, chlorinated solvents, gasoline-related volatile organic

compounds and metals, have leeched into the soil and groundwater, given the site’s long-standing use as a filling station. Selfhelp real estate development vice president Evelyn Wolff said she was thrilled with the project. She said Selfhelp does not currently have a housing presence in The Bronx, but does have an office located at 990 Pelham Parkway South. “Our vision is to build a residential structure for seniors and people who are 62 years and over,” she said. “We are very excited to be building in this area of The Bronx because we have a lot of our clients who live in the area. In addition to serving seniors, we have a fairly large constituent of Holocaust survivors in the neighborhood.” When asked what the community space component entailed, Wolff said authorities were still unsure but that it would be health-related and encompass doctor’s offices and the like. If all goes according to plan, Wolff said, construction could begin as early as this coming summer. A timeline submitted to NYSDEC indicates the gas station will be demolished in August 2013, with construction due to begin shortly after. Selfhelp expects to fund the development project with both private and public lenders and

Selfhelp, a nonprofit organization, has lodged plans to redevelop this Broadway service station into a mixed-use facility comprised of senior housing and commercial space. a combination of tax credits through the New York State Brownfield Cleanup Program, low income housing tax credits and tax exempt bonds. “The residential units will likely be financed by a combination of New York City and New York state public and quasi-public entities whose mission is the creation of affordable housing,”

the application states. Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz said he viewed the project with caution. “There is a tremendous need for housing, particularly senior housing. But I always think it’s important to look at these plans very carefully, both in terms of the detail and where the money is coming from,” he said.

“We have often seen the bait and switch, where we are supposed to get one thing but end up with another. We have to scrutinize this very carefully.” Public comments regarding the application will be accepted through December 14. To obtain further details about the plan or to submit feedback, visit dec. ny.gov/chemical/60058.html.

RKA high school records slight dip on latest progress report card

By MIAWLING LAM Riverdale Kingsbridge Academy’s high school earned a B on this year’s school progress report—a drop of one letter grade. The annual evaluation, released by the Department of Education on Monday afternoon, reveals H.S. 141 racked up 69.2 points out of a possible 100—down from its score of 73.9 in 2011. The local high school has registered an A grade for the past three consecutive years. A breakdown of the progress report shows RKA’s rating in the school environment category pulled down the composite score. The school earned just 6.9 points out of a possible 15 points—a D grade—after parents, teachers and students criticized the administration on the latest school surveys. Of the 358 city high schools, just 35 were slapped with a D. An additional 41 schools earned an F. Across other assessable sections, RKA

earned an A for student performance and a B for student progress, a category that accounts for 55 percent of a school’s grade. RKA principal Lori O’Mara said the high school was on the way up and insisted there were glimmers of hope. She also noted the school missed out on an A grade by just 0.8 points. “We continue to be proud of our overall achievement as represented by the graduation rates,” she wrote in an email to the Riverdale Review. “We are pleased of our standings in the college readiness section. We are doing excellent work in helping students to prepare for college and enjoy success in their ﬁrst critical years in college.” For the ﬁrst time ever, education authorities included a series of new college readiness measures on this year’s evaluations. The metrics detail the number of students who take on and excel in advanced courses, graduate ready for college and enroll in a college after school.

The school landed the top grade in the college and career readiness section after it managed to rack up 7.5 points out a possible 10. The school’s dip in overall performance placed it 130th out of 356 high schools citywide, with a 12-point drop in percentile ranking—officials assessed the school as being better or equal to 65 percent of the city’s high schools, compared to last year’s percentile of 77. Despite the decline in some areas, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz said the city’s grading system did not necessarily reflect a school’s academic success. “(Progress reports) take into account several factors, some of which are subjective in nature, and because they are, in part, a comparison to previous years, they do not necessarily give an accurate picture of student academic achievement,” he said. “I believe that Regents scores and standardized tests, including SATs, more accurately reflect the success of students in schools.

“I don’t doubt that improvements need to be made at RKA, as is the case in all of our schools, but I hardly think that these school report cards do justice to many of the good things that are happening at RKA.” Schools Chancellor Dennis M. Walcott said the additional college and career readiness rubrics were designed to reward schools whose students successfully engage in rigorous coursework. “Our high schools play an important role in student outcomes beyond K-12,” he said. “By measuring how well our schools prepare students for college and careers, the Progress Reports shine a light on the importance of increased rigor as a bridge to future success.” Overall, slightly more city schools received the highest two grades this year. According to a breakdown, 34 percent of the city’s schools received an A, 38 percent a B, 21 percent a C and the bottom seven percent a D or F.

Thursday, November 29, 2012 • The RIVERDALE REVIEW

City to apply popular tax break on next property bills By MIAWLING LAM Local co-op and condo owners will continue to reap the benefits of an expired $430 million property tax break even though Albany lawmakers have yet to renew the scheme officially. City officials have confirmed they will retroactively apply the popular Cooperative and Condominium Tax Abatement in the next round of tax bills in the hope that an accord is struck. The scheme, which gives apartment owners significant property tax breaks, expired on June 30. Governor Andrew M. Cuomo was expected to call state Assembly and Senate members back to Albany for a special legislative session before the end of the year to renew the program, but it is understood the widespread damage caused by superstorm Sandy put the kibosh on those plans. However, a NYC Department of Finance spokesman assured homeowners that they would not face a property tax hike. “The city will send out the bills this month as originally planned, and we expect that new legislation will be acted on early in the next legislative session,” he wrote in an email last week. “The abatement will be applied.” Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz welcomed the city’s response, but said the program should be formally renewed now rather than later. “It will be very disappointing if (Cuomo) doesn’t call a legislative session,” he said. “Obviously it should be renewed this year, but even if it is renewed next year, it would be applied retroactively.” Homeowners feared they would be slugged with higher property taxes if lawmakers failed to renew the hugely popular scheme. The program, which has been in effect since 1996, provides eligible homeowners with a generous property tax rebate. Shareholders or owners whose units are valued in excess of $15,000 are currently given a 17.5 percent rebate, while those with properties valued at less than $15,000 are given a 25 percent rebate. If the program were not renewed, owners whose units are worth more than $15,000 would have seen their tax bills spike by 21 percent, while those whose properties are valued at less than $15,000 would have seen their assessments skyrocket by 33 percent. The abatement program was originally designed to reduce the tax burden on coop and condo owners, who pay higher property taxes than owners of one-, two-, and three-family homes. The disparity is widely attributed to the tax class they are assigned to—co-ops and condos are assessed in the same group as apartment buildings. A study conducted in 2011 by the Real Estate Board of New York shows that although one-, two-, and threefamily homes account for 50 percent of the market value of properties citywide, their owners pay just 15 percent of the overall tax tab. State Senator Jeffrey Klein said the

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program’s signiﬁcance should not be overlooked. “I think it’s very important that we continue the tax abatement program that gives a $430 million tax break to thousands of co-op and condo owners,” he said. “The community of Riverdale, which has a lot of co-ops and condos, deserves to have that tax break.” As of press time, calls to Stephen Budihas, the president of the Association of Riverdale Cooperatives and Condominiums, were not returned. Once the state Legislature renews the bill as expected, the property tax abatement will continue until June 30, 2015. According to the Independent Budget Ofﬁce, the abatement program costs New York City taxpayers nearly $430 million each year.

Man struck and killed by train

Photo by David Greene

The gruesome death comes more than a year after a 74-year-old woman jumped in front of the No.1 train at the same station. Transit advocates and elected officials have long debated ways to increase straphanger safety. According to the MTA, 147 people were struck by subway trains in 2011. However, officials did not provide a breakdown of those figures, so it isn’t clear how many of those injured died. The transit agency has previously announced they are considering installing sliding mechanical doors on all platforms to prevent people from jumping or falling onto the tracks. Last year, Bronx Assemblyman Marcos Crespo even proposed that all subways come to a complete stop before entering each and every station. Under his controversial plan, trains would be permitted to roll forward and pick up passengers only after the required pause. He also suggested cars be limited to traveling to 5 mph as they enter the station.

The RIVERDALE REVIEW • Thursday, November 29, 2012

By MIAWLING LAM A man jumped to his death on Thanksgiving morning by leaping in front of a moving No. 1 train, authorities said. Police said Eric Martinez, 26, of Manhattan, was struck by a southbound No. 1 train at the 231st Street station in Kingsbridge early last Thursday. Commanding officer of the 50th Precinct Captain Kevin Burke said the man’s lifeless body was discovered around 6:30 a.m., roughly two cars lengths south of the platform. “We suspect he was struck by an earlier train,” he said. Captain Burke said subway staff stumbled upon the victim by chance—a conductor originally thought the lifeless body was garbage and ventured onto the tracks to remove the debris. Paramedics pronounced Martinez dead on arrival, according to an FDNY spokesman. Captain Burke said the victim’s mother told police that her son suffered from schizophrenia and was on medication at the time of his death. However, many friends who flocked to the victim’s Facebook page said they were shocked by the news. One even said he joked around with Martinez just days prior and that his friend appeared to be in good spirits. According to his Facebook profile, Martinez worked at Citylights, a luxury condominium apartment building in Long Island City, Queens. “Eric was a great person and the best thing about him was his kindness and genuine personality. He will be missed,” friend Mario Arroyave wrote. Due to the police investigation, an MTA spokesman said downtown subway services ran express between the 242nd Street and 215th Street stations for three hours following the incident.

Thursday, November 29, 2012 • The RIVERDALE REVIEW

Around the schools... P.S. 24

The school has been awarded $60,000 by the City Council to purchase four laptop computers for each classroom as well as small safes where the devices can be stored when not in use. The in-classroom location of the laptops obviates the need for teachers to visit the school library continually in order to sign them out. The make and model speciﬁcs are yet to be determined, but principal Donna Connelly said she will try to get as many computers as possible for the $60,000 allocation.

P.S. 81

The parents association alerts the community to a Department of Education announcement regarding additional school days in 2013 to compensate for lost days due to the recent storm. School will be in session from Wednesday, February 20, through Friday, February 22, days that were previously scheduled as part of the mid-winter recess. School will also be in session for a full day rather than a shortened day on on Tuesday, June 4. The ﬁfth-graders are scheduled this week for a tour of their own local middle school, M.S. 141, part of the RiverdaleKingsbridge Academy.

Riverdale-Kingsbridge Academy

Friday middle school tours for parents of prospective sixth-graders will continue through December 14. Tours begin promptly at 8:30 a.m. and last until around 11 a.m. To register, contact parent coordinator Julie Prince at JPrince4@schools. nyc.gov. Many RKA students are members of the Riverdale Community Center’s Teen Theater. The troupe will perform three one-act plays that address various issues encountered by young adults—like smoking, love, divorce and adultery. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. this Friday, November 30, and Saturday, December 1, in the RKA auditorium at 660 West 237th Street. The suggested donation is $5. For more information, call 718-796-4724. The RKA girls’ volleyball team made it to the city playoff ﬁnal at York College on Tuesday.

Horace Mann School

Next Tuesday, December 4, the Upper Division Community Service Program will host its annual holiday dinner for Sanctuary for Families, a New York Citybased organization that provides support services and housing to battered women and their children. Its main housing shelter, the Sarah Burke House, is located

in The Bronx. Two hundred ﬁfty mothers and their children are expected to attend the dinner at HM. Student volunteers will do face painting and crafts with the children while the mothers relax and enjoy listening to the Horace Mann Jazz band play holiday music. Each mother will be given winter gloves, a scarf and a warm hat. For dessert, the children and their mothers will decorate cookies and make their own ice cream sundaes. Santa will offer each child candy canes and gifts donated by Lower Division children and parents. The Middle School earned a 2012 Blackboard Award earlier this month. The school was among others recognized for excellence during a ceremony at Fordham Law School. Robin Ingram, head of the Middle Division, accepted the award, which is co-sponsored by Manhattan Media Corporation, CUNY, The Mandell School, the UFT, The New School, Verizon and Glenwood Realty Company.

Manhattan College

The community is invited to hear the Manhattan College Singers and Orchestra perform their annual Christmas program, A Festival of Lessons and Carols, this Sunday, December 2, starting with preludes at 3:15 in the Chapel of De La Salle and His Brothers. Alumni of the Manhattan College Singers and the college’s Glee Club are invited to participate. The concert will feature selections from Handel’s “Messiah,” an excerpt from Haydn’s “The Creation” and two carols by John Rutter. The ensembles will also lead hymns, including a candlelit “Silent Night.” After the concert, performers will walk by candlelight to the quadrangle and light the college’s Christmas tree. A reception in Smith Auditorium will follow. A Festival of Lessons and Carols is a unique hourlong seasonal celebration that combines traditional Christmas carols and Advent hymns with scripture readings and contemporary musical arrangements. For more information, contact Andrew Bauer at andrew.bauer@manhattan.edu or 718-862-7254.

Kinneret Day School

During a recent visit to the Dr. Davies Farm in Congers, New York, preschool students learned about the many ways we use apples. As a follow-up, Greenburgh Nature Center staff visited the school last week and showed them how to make apple cider. Following last week’s Thanksgiving play, preschoolers cooked a traditional Thanksgiving Day feast for their classmates.

Kinneret Day School kindergarteners engaged in their roles as Native Americans in the school’s annual Thanksgiving play. The children sang songs about how the Pilgrims learned how to plant seeds, hunt, ﬁsh, build homes and weave baskets from the Native Americans. Actors are, from left: Orli Sugerman, Dante Marinacci, Gur Peled, Noga Blayer and Lotem Haimovich.

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By TESS McRAE More than 50 residents of 3616 Henry Hudson Parkway have been without gas service after a fire started on the fifth floor of their apartment building last week. According to Con Edison, building staff at the Algiers reported a possible gas leak on the south side of the complex on Tuesday, November 20, at 8:33 p.m. A Con Ed spokesman said a mechanic, following standard procedure, inspected an area on the fifth floor and moved a range away from the wall to check for leaks. The mechanic eventually found a leak and began to turn off a valve for that area when a fire ignited. “The mechanic did everything required of him,” Con Ed spokesman Allan Drury said. “When the fire started, he evacuated some people and immediately called the fire department and turned off the gas.” According to an FDNY spokesman, firefighters arrived at the scene at 8:52 p.m. and had the fire under control by 9:20 p.m. There were no medical transports and no reported injuries, the spokesman said. Though the fire was extinguished within an hour, Con Ed has yet to restore gas to the affected side of the building. “After something like this happens, we perform an integrity test to see if the piping is safe to turn gas back on,” Drury said. An integrity test involves shooting a blast of natural gas through the piping to check for leaks. Drury said that the building failed the test—one or more leaks were found. In accordance with the Department of Buildings protocols, Con Edison cannot turn on gas until the issue is resolved. According to Drury, the problem is now in the hands of the building owner. “When a building fails an integrity

test, the owner needs to hire a plumber to repair the leaks, and this needs to be certified through the buildings department,” he said. Certification is required if “restoration of discontinued service when shut-off is due to fire or accident which affects the gas piping,” the Department of Buildings website states. Anne Larson, an employee of Goodman Management Realty and managing agent of the building, refused to comment on

the matter but said that gas issues are a common occurrence in apartments. “The only thing that is noteworthy of this event is that it happened right before Thanksgiving,” Larsen said. “Other than that, this kind of thing is not unusual.” Residents of the affected section continue to have heat, but many are unable to use their ovens, causing a strain on their Thanksgiving festivities. “I was lucky because I go visit family on Thanksgiving. But I know a few people

were really upset because they couldn’t use their gas ovens to make their Thanksgiving meals,” one resident said. “That couldn’t have been fun.” As of press time, the south side of the Algiers was still without gas, and Larson would not say when residents should expect it to be turned on. “Right now, there is nothing we can do about this,” Drury said. “As soon as the leaks are repaired and certiﬁed, we can get gas back on.”

Mayor proposes $4.5 million NYPL funding cut By MIAWLING LAM Weekend library service may be slashed, up to 50 full-time employees could be laid off and fewer library books may be purchased if new mid-year budget cuts transpire. Under a revised budget released by Mayor Michael Bloomberg earlier this month, the New York Public Library could see their funding axed by $4.5 million in ﬁscal year 2013. The austerity measure is necessary to close the city’s $1.15 billion budget black hole and comes after a plan to sell 2,000 new yellow taxi medallions failed to crystallize. The plan, which would have netted more than $600 million, is currently going through the courts. Head librarian at NYPL’s Spuyten Duyvil branch Tim Tureski warned that if the multimillion-dollar budget cut proceeds as planned, it would have a devastating impact on the community. “If the cut goes through, the library would have no choice but to eliminate all Sunday service, eliminate Saturday service at 60 of its 90 branches, reduce its book budget by 6 percent, continue its

hiring freeze and lay off up to 50 full-time employees,” he said at this month’s Community Board 8 general meeting. Tureski said while the city razor gang has repeatedly tried to reduce the NYPL’s operating budget, the community usually rallies to fight the cuts and is successful at achieving partial restorations—a tradition he hoped would continue. Despite the annual outcry, NYPL spokeswoman Angela Montefinise said funding for the library system, a network of branches in The Bronx, Manhattan and Staten Island, has been systematically reduced by 16 percent since 2008. She declined to elaborate on the possible impact of the latest cuts—officials are currently evaluating their budget—but said more people were utilizing library services than ever before. “The NYPL has worked very hard in tough economic times to improve efficiency and sustain high levels of quality public service despite fewer dollars and fewer staff members. The goal is to do the same in the wake of this cut,” Montefinise said. “Particularly in difficult financial times,

New Yorkers need their libraries—shown clearly, for example, after Hurricane Sandy, when our patrons flocked to their branches for power, Internet, free programming, materials and community support.” The Riverdale branch, located on Mosholu Avenue, even registered a 55 percent spike in attendance in the week following the historic storm, ofﬁcials said. Community Board 8 libraries and cultural affairs chair Robert Abbott claimed the proposed cuts would have a “substantial” impact. Members of the City Council need to approve Bloomberg’s proposed budget, so it is likely they will reject the library cuts. As of press time, calls to Councilman G. Oliver Koppell were not returned. According to the wide-ranging budget proposal, the price for school lunches will increase to $2.50, up from $1.50. In addition, Muni-Meter parking rates in Manhattan will jump by 50 cents an hour—south of 96th Street, rates will go from $3 to $3.50; between 96th and 110th streets, from $1 to $1.50.

5 The RIVERDALE REVIEW • Thursday, November 29, 2012

Riverdale building on HHP remains without gas following leak

Admission is $20. With the Bronx Cultural Card, admission is $18. For further information: visit www.riverdalechoral. org or call 347-346-5891.

Thursday, November 29, 2012 • The RIVERDALE REVIEW

Stanley Lane Basketball League at The Riverdale Y

RCC Teen Theater Fall Drama

The Riverdale Community Center’s Teen Theater is ready to perform. For one weekend only you can watch this amazing group of students as they perform three one-act plays by a variety of wonderful authors. These plays deal with aspects of young adult life, including smoking, young love, divorce, and adultery. Curtains rise on Friday, November 30th at 7:30 pm with an encore/ﬁnal performance on Saturday, December 1st at 7:30 pm. Doors open at 7:00 pm, suggested donation $5.00. Performances are held in the RKA MS/HS 141 auditorium at 660 West 237th Street. For more information please call 718-796-4724.

New Programs for Parents, Infants and Young Tots

The Y is welcoming all families with a Tot Shabbat on Friday, November 30 at 10:30am in the Riverdale Y lobby. Greg Shafritz, music specialist to the early childhood program, will lead this session twice a month. Children and families will participate in joyous Shabbat songs and the blessings for lighting of candles, challah and wine. There are many special programming for babies 0-3, their families and their caregivers at the Y now. The entire community (especially families with little children) are welcome to participate. The Y is located at 5625 Arlington Avenue. For more information, contact Wendy Pollock at 718-548-8200 ext 220 or go to our website at www.Riverdaley.org.

History lecture on Bronx Race Tracks

Peter Ostrander, president of The Kingsbridge Historical Society is pleased to announce that on Thursday, November 29th at 7:30 pm, Thomas X. Casey will present a power point and lecture titled ‘Bronx Race Tracks’. Thomas X. Casey lives in Riverdale and is the, co-author of the recently published book ‘Northwest Bronx’ that covers the Bronx west of the Bronx River and ‘Bronx Views,’ the postcard book published by the Bronx County Historical Society. Mr. Casey has made a study of the horse racing in the Bronx, back to 1776. The focus of his presentation will be the historic Jerome Park Racetrack which opened in 1866, now home to Lehman College and the Jerome Reservoir. The meeting is free and open to the public, and will be held at the St. Gabriel’s

Community Hall, below the Rectory, located at West 235th Street and Arlington Avenue, Bronx NY. Parking is available on site. The Kingsbridge Historical Society was founded by The Rev. Dr. William A. Tieck in 1949. It was the ﬁrst and is the oldest local historical society in the Bronx. The society’s focus is on the history of the greater Kingsbridge area, located in the north-west Bronx. The society’s name is derived from the historic King’s Bridge and its environs, which include present-day Riverdale, Kingsbridge, Spuyten Duyvil, Marble Hill, Inwood, Van Cortlandt, Woodlawn and Fieldston. It is comprised of members interested in all aspects of local history and has an archive of photos, maps, books and other items that document this area that is rich in history. Please view The Kingsbridge Historical Society web page at kingsbridgehistoricalsociety. org for more information.

Shaolin Warriors return to Lehman Center

Lehman Center for the Performing Arts proudly presents the heart-stopping, thrill-a-minute SHAOLIN WARRIORS direct from China. This company of highly skilled, theatrical Kung-Fu masters mesmerized audiences at a prior performance and they have spellbound audiences all around the world. The Washington Post raves, “ ...they combine the agility and grace of gymnasts with the showmanship of Cirque du Soleil performers.” The company’s New York City performance is on Saturday, December 1, 2012 at 8pm at Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, 250 Bedford Park Boulevard West, Bronx, NY. In a fully choreographed theatrical production, the Shaolin Warriors bring the remarkable skill, stunning movement and spectacular imagery of Kung Fu performed by disciples of the Shaolin School, known throughout the world for their disciplined and deadly martial-arts prowess. These Kung Fu masters have trained from a very young age in mental and physical disciplines, which allow them to perform feats one thought only possible in the movies. The production features many forms of Shaolin Kung Fu as well as a look at the daily life of the warriors and their Zen philosophy. Special ticket price for children 12 and under, $10 any seat The performance of the SHAOLIN WARRIORS takes place on Saturday, December 1 at 8pm. Lehman Center

for the Performing Arts Concert Hall is located at 250 Bedford Park Blvd. W. on the campus of Lehman College in the Bronx. Tickets cost $45, $40 and $25, and for children 12 and under, $10 any seat. Tickets can be purchased through 24 hour online access at www.LehmanCenter.org or by calling the Lehman Center box ofﬁce at 718-960-8833 open Monday & Wednesday-Friday 10am-5pm (closed on Tuesdays) and beginning at 12 noon on the day of the concert. Lehman Center is accessible by #4 or D train to Bedford Park Blvd., and is right off several major highways, including the Henry Hudson Parkway, the Saw Mill River Parkway and Major Deegan Expressway. Low-cost onsite parking available for $5. Lehman Center is supported, in part, with public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the New York City Council. The 2012-2013 season is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature, JPMorgan Chase, and through corporations, foundations and private donations. Special $10 tickets for children are underwritten by Con Edison.

RCS to present concert titled ‘Gloria, Gloria!’

The Riverdale Choral Society will present its ﬁrst concert of the 2012-2013 season on Sunday, December 2 at 5:30pm. Their concert entitled ‘Gloria, Gloria!’ will feature the distinctively styled and vivacious ‘Gloria’ by Francis Poulenc, the ‘Gloria’ from the Messa di Gloria by Giacomo Puccini as well as the ‘Ave Maria’ by Felix Mendelssohn. The concert will feature Wendy Baker, Soprano, Mark Seah, Tenor and David Mallory, Tenor as soloists. Music Director John Lettieri will conduct the chorus with MunTzung Wong on piano and guest organist Timothy Brunﬁeld. The concert will take place at Christ Church Riverdale on Sunday, December 2, 2012 at 5:30 PM. The church’s address is 5030 Henry Hudson Parkway at West 252nd Street. It is located on the northbound Henry Hudson Parkway service road where parking is available. To travel by car, take the Henry Hudson Parkway to the West 246th Street Exit. To travel by public transportation, take the #1 train to West 231st Street, then take bus Bx7 or Bx10 to West 252nd Street or take the BxM1 or BxM2 express bus to West 252nd Street.

The Y is offering the Stanley Lane Basketball League again this December. The Stanley Lane Youth Basketball League is ﬁrst and foremost a developmental basketball league. All children ( girls and boys) have the opportunity to play on organized teams, participate in structured fundamental practices, and are encouraged to participate in basketball clinics. League fees includes t-shirt, trophies and the Youth Sports Awards Night. Practices will be held once per week on either Monday or Thursday evening. League games begin on December 23, 2012 and run through late March 2013. The cost to participate is $195 or if you are a Y member,$150. As a developmental and fundamental youth basketball league our ‘player assessment’ period is a crucial part towards creating teams throughout each division. During the ‘player assessment’ process each young athlete will showcase their abilities as they rotate through four stations, as the coaches walk through each station. This assessment period helps the coaches and staff draft fair teams for fair play! Player Assessment will be held on Sunday, December 2 Junior Division (1st-2nd grade): 1:00pm-2:00pm Varsity Division (3rd-4th grade): 4:00pm-5:00pm Player Assessment will be held on Sunday, December 9 Pro Division (5th-6th grade): 1:00pm2:00pm Super Pro Division (7th-9th grade): 4:00pm-5:00pm Player Assessment make-up date Sunday, December 16 All grades 1:00pm-2:00pm For more information and to register your child for the league, please contact Yudi Davis at 718-548-8200, ext. 240 or email YDavis@RiverdaleY.org. The Y is located at 5625 Arlington Avenue.

Flea market at St. John’s Church

St. John’s Church will host a ﬂea market on Saturday, December 1, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The sale will be held at the Old St. John’s School located at 3030 Godwin Terrace in the Bronx. Clothes, jewelry, accessories and brica-brac will be sold at bargain prices. Free parking will also be available so get there early and snare yourself a great ﬁnd. For more information, please call 718-543-3003.

The Riverdale Y Sunday Market will extend their 2012 season from 9am-2pm until December 23, 2012 at MS/HS 141, located at West 237th Street and Independence Avenue. The market offers natural organic and local products- kosher and non kosher items. The market will -include some new vendors for the extended period including local artisans and businesses who will offer special gifts perfect for the holiday. Of course we will have our regular favorites of vendors for produce, baked goods, eggs, meats, cheese pickles, soaps, and more. For more information please go to our website: www.RiverdaleY.org or call 718-548-8200.

RCT holds its 3rd Annual Starry Night Gala!

On Saturday, December 1, 2012 The Riverdale Children’s Theatre will be holding its third annual Starry Night Gala. This will be an elegant evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment to kick off RCT’s winter season and raise funds for their Performing Arts Educational Outreach programs and the RCT Scholarship Fund. Join friends of RCT for this unique event with performances by Broadway artists and our own RCT family, in an elegant, intimate setting, Horace Mann School Dining Commons located at 231 West 246th Street Bronx, NY 10471. Performers include: Rob Lorey - Beauty and the Beast, Aspects of Love; David Truskinoff, Broadway Conductor - Rent and Hair; Shana Mahoney - Cabaret. Also performing will be RCT faculty

STILL GIVING. Beloved philanthropist Brooke Astor set up a permanent fund with The New York Community Trust. Today, The Trust continues to carry out her philanthropy, and always will. What are your plans?

Brooke Astor 1902-2007

Consider setting up your own permanent fund today. Visit stillgiving.org or contact Jane Wilton (212) 686-2563

and friends; Becky Lillie Woods, Liz Kollas, Antonia Barba, Tiffany Lutz, Derek Woods and members of the casts of 13 The Musical and Peter Pan. Tickets are $40 and include an open bar and hors d’oeuvres (Kosher selections will be available). The evening will also feature the RCT Gypsy Awards, recognizing the dedication and hard work of 16 youth who have participated in 5 seasonal productions. This year’s honorees are: Perla Aquino, Cesar Aquino, Karen Coughlan, Maya Bradley, Anna Meo, Julia Cappell, Dafna Horowitz, Avigail Maayan, Ethan Homan, Natan Shaviv, Eden Uriel, Deena Danishefsky, Juan Virella, Harry Gale, Gali Davar, Jennifer Huvane To make a reservation or for more information go to the RCT website www.riverdaletheatre.org. The evening begins at 7pm.

Celebrate Chanukah with Chabad of Riverdale

Please help us with our Toys for Tots Campaign. For the past 18 years, Chabad of Riverdale has distributed toys, games, and gifts to hospitalized children. You can make an online donation at www. ChabadRiverdale.org or write a check payable to Chabad of Riverdale Toys Campaign. We also welcome donations of unwrapped toys, which can be dropped off before December 14 at Chabad of Riverdale’s ofﬁce on Monday-Thursday between 9am-4pm and Fridays 9am1pm. We are also looking for volunteers to distribute the toys at the hospitals on December 10, 11, and 13. We will be visiting the following hospitals: Monteﬁore; Jacobi Medical Center; Bronx Lebanon; Lincoln Hospital; St. Barnabas; and Columbia Presbyterian Baby’s Hospital.

On Sunday, December 2, from 11am1pm, bring your family to the Riverdale Y for Chanukah Wonderland. Our exciting program will feature entertainment from our Chabad ELC Preschool Children at 11am, The Budapest Jugglers at 12.30pm, Judah the Maccabee, the Dreidel Man, as well as interactive Chanukah games, doughnut baking and decorating, face painting, and Chanukah candle making. Price: $12 per Child. Family Rate-$30. Prices include lunch. For more information, please call Fraidy at (718) 549-1100 Ext. 30. On Sunday, December 2, Chabad of Riverdale will be hosting a farbrengen in honor of 19 Kislev, when the ﬁrst Chabad Rebbe, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, was released from imprisonment in Czarist Russia. On Saturdays December 8 and 15, special Chanukah activities will take place in Junior Congregation for children aged 3-10 from 10.45am-12 pm at Chabad of Riverdale. Join us at the Bell Tower Monument for the Lighting of the Largest Menorah in the Bronx! The Giant Menorah will be lit on Sunday, December 9 at 4pm, and celebrations will feature a menorah ice carving, Judah the Maccabee, live music, hot latkes, donuts, dreidels, and balloons. We will also light the Chanukah Menorah on Saturday, December 8 at 6:30pm, Monday-Thursday, December 10-13 at 4:00pm, Friday, December 14 at 3:00pm, and Saturday, December 15 at 6:30pm. On Monday, December 10, at 3 pm, Chabad of Riverdale will be hosting a Chanukah party for the Bat Mitzvah Club of Kinneret Day School.

Visitation School to hold holiday bazaar

Visitation School’s Parents Association will hold a Holiday Bazaar on Sunday, Dec. 2, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The bazaar will be held in the gym below the Visitation Church, 160 Van Cortlandt Park South. Local vendors from the Bronx, Manhattan and Westchester offering a variety of gift and everyday items have signed on for this special sale event. Food and refreshments sold. Free admission and parking.

7 The RIVERDALE REVIEW • Thursday, November 29, 2012

Sunday market at the Riverdale Y

On Monday, December 10, from 6-9pm, all are invited to Chanukah on Ice at Central Park’s Trump Wollman Rink, where The Maccabeats will be performing, and complimentary Kosher food will be served. Enjoy this unforgettable experience as you skate under the stars to Jewish music. Save money by registering online at ChanukahOnIceNYC.com. Online registration is $22 for adults, $18 for children ages 3 - 13. At the door, admission is $25 for adults; $20 for children ages 3 - 13. Special group rates are available. On Wednesday, December 12, P.S. 24 students will enjoy a Chanukah Party at Chabad from 2:15-3:15pm. On Friday, December 14, at 11 am, we will be visiting Kingsbridge Heights Rehabilitation and Care Center. If you would like to join us in visiting this nursing home on Chanukah, please contact Rabbi Balashov at 917-309-6797. On Friday, December 14, Kinneret Day School 7th and 8th grade boys will enjoy a Chanukah party and Friday night dinner at Chabad of Riverdale. On Saturday, December 15, between 12:151:00pm, Rebbetzin Sorah Shemtov will be presenting a special Chanukah learning program for women at Chabad of Riverdale For more information on Chanukah events at Chabad of Riverdale, visit www. ChabadRiverdale.org or call (718) 5491100 Ext 10.

Thursday, November 29, 2012 • The RIVERDALE REVIEW

Thursday, November 29 Kingsbridge

FAR OUT PHYSICS 3:30 p.m. Kingsbridge Branch Library 291 West 231st Street Children will explore different themes such as: speed, momentum, forces, reactions, structures and other physical phenomena. Presented by the Children’s Museum of Manhattan. For ages 6 and older. For more info, call 718-548-5656.

Riverdale

HISTORY LECTURE 7:30 p.m. St. Gabriel’s Community Hall West 235th St. & Arlington Ave. Peter Ostrander, president of The Kingsbridge Historical Society is pleased to announce that Thomas X. Casey will present a power point and lecture titled “Bronx Race Tracks“. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information, visit kingsbridgehistoricalsociety.org

Friday, November 30 Kingsbridge

STAY WELL EXERCISE 10 a.m. Kingsbridge Branch Library 291 West 231st Street Stay Well volunteers certiﬁed by the NYC’s Department for the Aging will lead participants in a well-balanced series of exercises for seniors of all ability levels. Please wear loose comfortable clothing. Exercise equipment will be provided. Those participating in the exercises must sign an activity release form. For more information, call 718-548-5656.

Riverdale

TOT SHABBAT 10:30 a.m. Riverdale YM-YWHA 5625 Arlington Avenue Children and families will participate in joyous Shabbat songs and the blessings for lighting of candles, challah and wine. For info, contact Wendy Pollock at 718-548-8200 ext 220.

Riverdale

FUN SCIENCE 3:30 p.m. Riverdale Branch Library 5540 Mosholu Avenue Children are welcome to come to the Riverdale Branch and learn more about the scientiﬁc process. They will conduct experiments and have fun while learning how the world around them operates. November 30th-Edible Dissections (Part 2). For more information, call 718-549-1212.

Riverdale

ONE-ACT PLAYS 7:30 p.m. Riverdale Community Center 660 West 237th Street The Riverdale Community Center’s Teen Theater will perform three one-act plays by a variety of wonderful authors. For more information please call 718-796-4724.

Saturday, December 1 Kingsbridge

FLEA MARKET 9 a.m. Old St. John’s School 3030 Godwin Terrace Bric-a-brac, clothing (new and used), and many other merchandise for sale. For more information, call 718-543-3003.

Kingsbridge

READING ALOUD 1 p.m. Kingsbridge Branch Library 291 West 231st Street Children and adults read together with the Rotary Club of Riverdale. For ages 5 to 12 years. For info, call 718-548-5656.

Kingsbridge

MOVIES 1 p.m. Kingsbridge Branch Library 291 West 231st Street Come watch some classic movies, old favorites, and new releases on the little silver screen. This month we will be showing Citizen Kane. For more information, call 718-548-5656.

Riverdale

RCT STARRY NIGHT GALA 7 p.m. Horace Mann School Dining Commons 231 West 246th Street The Riverdale Children’s Theatre will be holding its third annual Starry Night Gala. This will be an elegant evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment to kick off RCT’s winter season and raise funds for their Performing Arts Educational Outreach programs and the RCT Scholarship Fund. To make a reservation or for more information go to the RCT website www.riverdaletheatre.org.

Sunday, December 2 Van Cortlandt

HOLIDAY BAZAAR 9 a.m. Visitation Church Gym

160 Van Cortlandt Park South The community is invited to shop for great gifts for the holiday season, with a visit from Santa Claus.

Spuyten Duyvil

HOLIDAY SONGS 2 p.m. Spuyten Duyvil Branch Library 650 West 235th Street Tenor Salvatore Chiarelli & soprano Elga Johannes will present a program comprising holiday songs as well as popular, classical, show & opera selections. For info, call 718-796-1202.

Riverdale

LECTURE 2 p.m. Riverdale Temple 4545 Independence Avenue Dr. David Fishman, Professor of History at the Jewish Theological Seminary will be giving a talk on “Shtetl and City in Russian Jewish Life in the 19th Century.” He will explore the culture and everyday life of these two very different milieus and their interaction with each other. The event is free. For info, call 718-548-3800.

Riverdale

FESTIVAL OF LESSONS & CAROLS 3:30 p.m. Manhattan College Chapel of De La Salle The Manhattan College Singers and Orchestra will hold their yearly Christmas program, A Festival of Lessons and Carols. Alumni from the Manhattan College Singers and the College’s Glee Club are invited to participate in the event, which is free and open to the public. For more info, call 718-862-7254.

Riverdale

CONCERT 5:30 p.m. Christ Church Riverdale 5030 Henry Hudson Parkway Riverdale Choral Society’s concert entitled “Gloria, Gloria!” will feature the distinctively styled and vivacious “Gloria” by Francis Poulenc, the ‘Gloria’ from the Messa di Gloria by Giacomo Puccini as well as the ‘Ave Maria’ by Felix Mendelssohn. Admission is $20. With the Bronx Cultural Card, admission is $18. For further information: visit www.riverdalechoral.org or call 347-346-5891.

Monday, December 3 Spuyten Duyvil

KNITTING & CROCHET 11 a.m. Spuyten Duyvil Branch Library 650 West 235th Street A get-together for knitters & crocheters at all skill levels to work on a current project, learn new techniques, exchange information. All skill levels are welcomed. For more information, call 718-796-1202.

Riverdale

READING ALOUD 4 p.m. Riverdale Branch Library 5540 Mosholu Avenue A librarian will share favorite picture books, providing children with the wonder of books and the joy of reading. For ages 3 to 12 years. For more information, call 718-549-1212.

Tuesday, December 4 Riverdale

SCRABBLE 2 p.m. Riverdale Branch Library 5540 Mosholu Avenue If words work you up and crossword puzzles keep you going, come to Riverdale and share your passion with friends every Tuesday afternoon for a lively game of Scrabble. Pre-registration required. For more information, call 718-549-1212.

Riverdale

CB8 MEETING 7:30 p.m. Riverdale Garden Restaurant 4576 Manhattan College Parkway Meeting of the Economic Development Committee of Community Board 8. For more information, call 718-884-3959.

Wednesday, December 5 Kingsbridge

TODDLER STORY TIME 11 a.m. Kingsbridge Branch Library 291 West 231st Street Stories, songs, ﬁngerplays, puppets and ﬂannelboard illustrations for toddler 18-36 months for parents/caregivers. For more information, call 718-549-1212.

Thursday, December 6 Kingsbridge

WRITER’S CIRCLE 1 p.m. Kingsbridge Branch Library 291 West 231st Street Are you an aspiring writer? Join our writer’s group to share your work and get feedback from other members. All types of writing are welcome, whether it’s ﬁction, memoir, poetry, or other! For more information, call 718-548-5656.

Simón Bolívar Foundation 2013 Grant Cycle Now Open The Simón Bolívar Foundation, the charitable organization of CITGO Petroleum Corporation, is pleased to announce grant funding opportunities for non-proﬁt organizations in the South Bronx. Beginning November 26, 2012, the Foundation will accept inquiries from qualifying organizations that offer services to South Bronx residents in the areas of: Education � Environment � Health � Arts & Culture

Visit our website at SimonBolivarFoundation.org to determine your organization’s eligibility and review the application process.

APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2012 The Simón Bolívar Foundation is a Section 501(c)(3) charitable organization founded by CITGO Petroleum Corporation, an indirect subsidiary of Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA), the national oil company of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

The RIVERDALE REVIEW • Thursday, November 29, 2012

ATTENTION:

South Bronx Non-Profit Organizations

Thursday, November 29, 2012 • The RIVERDALE REVIEW

Congregation Tehillah rabbi feted in two-day tribute By PAULETTE SCHNEIDER Song of praise is one translation of the Hebrew word “tehillah,” and when Riverdale’s Congregation Tehillah honored Rabbi Linda Shriner-Cahn this month, they sang a song of praise that started Friday evening and continued until late the following night. Shriner-Cahn has been Tehillah’s spiritual leader for several years. But members felt it was time for an official installation, a way to offer gratitude and tributes. Two Shabbat services and a Saturday night concert event were dedicated to the celebration. The harmony between the rabbi and the congregation was a central theme. “When I auditioned for this community with a Havdalah service over four and a half years ago, something happened for me,” Shriner-Cahn said at the concert. “I came into a community that knew how to pray, that knew how to study—and they did it with live music! I had never done that before.” Congregation president Tamara Fish addressed the rabbi. “I was trying to find the right word to capture what you have been for our community, and that word is mentor,” she said. “A mentor is someone who can see the potential and coax it out. By your actions and by your deeds and by your gentle coaxing, we have come to embrace who we are and what we have.” Fish praised the Shriner-Cahn for tackling difficult issues and for partnering with the Riverdale Y to engage in community-based actions. “In those actions,” Fish said, “we have found our strength.” Former president Madeline Ritter commented on how the congregation has grown through their rabbi’s organizational skills and through her “nurturing” with prayer, study and civic engagement. Tehillah calls itself “a low-key, down-toearth, do-it-yourself, jump-in-with-twofeet type of shul that takes its davening seriously.” Its founders had in mind a Riverdale version of B’nai Jeshurun, a Manhattan shul renowned for robust, gleeful prayer. At services, lay “co-leaders” share the bimah with the rabbi. Everyone is encouraged to learn the difficult skill of Torah reading and to participate in leading prayers. “One of the most amazing things about this community is that they change the melodies from time to time,” ShrinerCahn said. “My co-leaders have different styles, and I’ll adjust myself to their style. That creates the spirit in the room. I want people to be at their best.” Local folk dance celebrities Rose and Meir Beer are among Tehillah’s musical movers and shakers. Rose is the congregation’s keyboard accompanist for services, and Meir, a regular co-leader, sets liturgical chants to folk dance melodies—just for variety. Also part of the devotional mix, weather permitting, are monthly outdoor services and meditative nature walks combined with Torah study. Shriner-Cahn was praised for securing a Jewish Education Project grant to train teen leaders in the innovation process. And through her initiative, post-bar and bat mitzvah youngsters begin their lives as Jewish adults by creating their own community service projects. One teen collected more than a thousand donated books to benefit a literacy program for kids, another devoted time to dogs at a

local animal shelter, and a young man organized a food drive for the needy, the rabbi said. She also started a peer tutor program, giving youngsters who already know the ropes an opportunity to teach the newbies how to chant the Hebrew texts with ancient cantillations. “For your mentorship, for your love of community, for your love of us, for your teaching, for your humor, we thank you,” Fish concluded. “You have no idea how amazing the last day and a half has been,” ShrinerCahn said. “What it’s shown me is the vitality, the versatility and the heart of this community.”

5625 Arlington Avenue Bronx, NY 10471 718-548-8200 www.RiverdaleY.org

Verizon breaking ground here for FiOS Empire City Subway, a Verizon subsidiary that specializes in underground engineering and construction services, has been tasked with carrying out the hands-on labor. It holds a franchise from the City of New York to maintain the conduit and manhole infrastructure in The Bronx and Manhattan. Other telecommunication and cable TV service providers rent conduit space from ECS, which claims to own 11,000 manholes and 58 million feet of conduit. Once the cables are set and the ditches are closed, residents can decide whether to sign up for the service and bring the lines into their homes. “Keep in mind that while we may have fiber running in the neighborhood, we must also negotiate with landlords and property managers to bring FiOS into their respective buildings,” Bonomo explained. Even if an apartment building agrees to hook up to FiOS, he said, customers who prefer other service providers will be able to retain them. Verizon will continue to expand fiber optic service through its Kingsbridge office in 2013.

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By PAULETTE SCHNEIDER Verizon has begun installing an underground conduit system for cabling that will bring the much-anticipated FiOS to Riverdale by spring. The initial stage of work, evidenced by a long ditch in the road on West 239th Street near Blackstone Avenue, should be done by the end of the week, according to Verizon spokesman John J. Bonomo. But additional work will continue through January. “After the placing of the conduit, we will install the actual fiber cabling inside the conduit, do splicing, and then test the cables,” Bonomo said. “This work will occur, we expect, in the February/March timeframe. Our expectation is that we will make these FiOS services available to residents in the immediate area some time shortly after that.” FiOS stands for fiber optic service, an option provided by Verizon that transmits data as pulses of light through special cables. It is called an FTTP (fiber to the premises) service because it brings fiber optic data connections directly to residential, as well as business customers.

Thursday, November 29, 2012 • The RIVERDALE REVIEW

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Katonah

HOLIDAY TEA MUSICALE 1:30 p.m. Caramoor Center for Music & Arts 149 Girdle Ridge Road There is always something to look forward to at Caramoor! Autumn and winter bring holiday traditions to mind, and your entire family is welcome to join in the festivities. Holiday Tea Musicales begin with a tour of the historic Rosen House, beautifully decorated for the season. The tour is followed by a Holiday Musicale in the majestic Music Room (a live concert including sing-alongs!) and a formal tea, served in the spectacular Summer Dining Room. For more info, call 914-232-1252.

Saturday, December 1 Ossining

BREAKFAST WITH THE BUNNIES 9:30 a.m. Teatown Lake Reservation 1600 Spring Valley Road Our bunny friends are hungry--what will they eat? Find out their favorite foods and have a hopping good time! We’ll have some treats for the hippity-hoppity ones in your family too. Please note this program is for childrean ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Free for members; $5/child for nonmembers. Programs ﬁll quickly--call 914-762-2912 x110 to register.

Katonah

Sunday, December 2 Scarsdale

CHANUKAH PARTY 10:30 a.m. Shaarei Tikvah 46 Fox Meadow Road There will be an opportunity for families to make holiday cards for Israeli soldiers and for American soldiers. At 10:45 there will be a magic show and Chanukah songs for all ages. Refreshments will be available. call 914-472-2013, ext. 300.

Ossining

ANIMAL ADVENTURES 1 p.m. Teatown Lake Reservation 1600 Spring Valley Road Meet a few of Teatown’s playful ambassador weasels. Please note this program is for families with children ages 4 and over. Free for members; $5pp for nonmembers. Registration is strongly recommended as programs ﬁll quickly. To register call 914-762-2912 x110.

Katonah

HISTORIC ROSEN HOUSE 1 p.m. Caramoor Center for Music & Arts 149 Girdle Ridge Road This Mediterranean Revival house, completed in 1939 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is noted for its collection of European period rooms. Built and enjoyed by Walter and Lucie Rosen, it continues to inspire the Caramoor International Music Festival, now in its 68th year. Walter Rosen’s vast collection of European and Asian art and furnishings, includes an eight-paneled 18th-century green jade screen from China – one of only two in the world; a gilded bed once owned by Pope Urban VIII; gorgeous chandeliers and fanciful light ﬁxtures, and tapestries, furniture and ceramics from the Renaissance. The tour includes a view of Lucie Rosen’s original theremin (built for her by Leon Theremin) and a chance to play a modern one! Docent led tours begin at 1:00pm, the last tour is 3 pm. For info, call 914-232-1252.

Monday, December 3 Rye

White Plains

PAUL ANKA IN CONCERT 7 p.m. Westchester County Center 198 Central Park Avenue The Pepe Inﬁniti concert series at the Westchester County Center presents Paul Anka in concert! Doors open at 7 p.m. / Show begins at 8 p.m. For more information, visit www. wmconcerts.com or call 914-995-4050.

Wednesday, December 5 Mt. Vernon

CELTIC HARP MUSIC 1 p.m. St. Paul’s Church 897 S. Columbus Avenue Lois Colin and company perform Harp music for the holidays. Too, learn about the fascinating history of St. Paul’s Church over three centuries. For more information, contact David Osborn, 914-667-4116.

Katonah

Yonkers

REI FREE PRESENTATION 7 p.m. REI Yonkers Ridge Hill Shopping Center Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Join REI Adventures Grand Canyon Backpacking Guides, as they take us on a pictorial journey through one of the natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon. For more information, call 914-410-9500 or visit www.rei.com/yonkers.

Thursday, December 6 Mt. Vernon

HOLIDAY OPERA PROGRAM 7 p.m. St. Paul’s Church 897 S. Columbus Avenue The acclaimed Bronx Opera Company performs selections from classic operas and seasonal carols. For more information, contact David Osborn, 914-667-4116.

Mt. Kisco

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP 7 p.m. Northern Westchester Hospital 400 East Main Street Join a group of women who have also heard the words “you have breast cancer” as we discuss issues pertaining to all stages of diagnosis, treatment and post-treatment. Facilitated by cancer survivors. Preregistration required; call 914-9626402 or 800-532-4290.

Friday, December 7 Yonkers

55PLUS HOLIDAY FORUM 8:30 a.m. Dunwoodie Golf Course 1 Grace Avenue Enjoy a light breakfast , socialize, hear interesting speakers on a variety of topics from health “It’s Only a Little Sugar”, second careers in unlikely places to unique opportunities to get involved. Community resource table, Westchester Diabetes Association information, rafﬂes and more. For more information, call 914 943-6368.

White Plains

STUDIO RINK 10 a.m. Playland Ice Casino Playland Parkway Studio Rink open for public skating. For more information, call 914-813-7059.

WHOOPI GOLDBERG 8 p.m. Westchester County Center 198 Central Park Avenue The Pepe Inﬁniti concert series at the Westchester County Center in White Plains presents Whoopi Goldberg! Tickets are now available at the box ofﬁce and ticketmaster

Tuesday, December 4

Saturday, December 8

MEDICARE BASICS 10 a.m. Westchester County Ofﬁce Building 9 S. First Ave., 8th ﬂoor Case workers from the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services will provide information about Medicare parts A, B, C and D and how to use Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) for even greater savings. To sign up, call DSPS’ Medicare Information Line at (914) 813-6100.

HOLIDAY MUSIC 12:10 p.m. St. Paul’s Church 897 S. Columbus Avenue Join us for a 2 PM Holiday performance of Holiday music, featuring Harp, French Horn and voice. Arrive early at 1 PM for a presentation about the historical development of Christmas as a holiday in America. For more information, contact David Osborn, 914-667-4116.

Mt. Vernon

The RIVERDALE REVIEW • Thursday, November 29, 2012

Thursday, November 29

Thursday, November 29, 2012 • The RIVERDALE REVIEW 14

The RIVERDALE REVIEW • Thursday, November 29, 2012

Thursday, November 29, 2012 • The RIVERDALE REVIEW 16

The Riverdale Temple is proud to present the second lecture of a four part series for year two of our partnership with the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research. This lecture will take place Sunday, December 2 at 2PM. The event is free to all at Riverdale Temple, 4545 Independence Ave. at 246th Street. Dr. David Fishman, Professor of History at the Jewish Theological Seminary will be giving a talk on “Shtetl and City in Russian Jewish Life in the 19th Century.” He will explore the culture and everyday life of these two very different milieus and their interaction with each other. We are pleased to get the support of UJA Federation of NY for this outreach program to Riverdale’s Russian Jewish community. Riverdale Temple is located at 4545 Independence Avenue, Tel: 718-548-3800.

Manhattan College to host Annual Festival of Lessons and Carols

The Manhattan College Singers and Orchestra will hold their yearly Christmas program, A Festival of Lessons and Carols, on Sunday, Dec. 2 in the Chapel of De La Salle and His Brothers. The program begins at 3:30 p.m. with preludes starting at 3:15 p.m. Alumni from the Manhattan College Singers and the College’s Glee Club are invited to participate in the event, which is free and open to the public. A Festival of Lessons and Carols is a

unique hour-long seasonal celebration that combines traditional Christmas carols and Advent hymns with scripture readings and contemporary musical arrangements. Brennan O’Donnell, Ph.D., president of the College, will present a reading and Richard K. Emmerson, Ph.D., dean of the School of Arts, will offer a reﬂection during the event. The concert will feature selections from Handel’s Messiah, an excerpt from Haydn’s oratorio The Creation, and two carols by John Rutter. Keeping with tradition, the ensembles will also lead hymns, including a candlelit Silent Night, in which the congregation is invited to play a part. Following the concert, the performers will walk by candlelight to the Quadrangle for the lighting of the College’s Christmas tree. The event will be followed by a reception in Smith Auditorium. For more information about A Festival of Lessons and Carols, please contact Andrew Bauer, coordinator of performing arts, by email at andrew. bauer@manhattan.edu or by phone at (718) 862-7254.

Upcoming events at JASA Senior Center

Upcoming special events at JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center for December 2012: Narrative Portrait class with artist Michael Ferris Jr. continues on Mondays, Dec. 3, 10 and 17 at 1:00 PM. Participants learn to create a self-portrait utilizing drawing, ink and collage techniques. No previous

art experience is necessary. New! Learn to speak Spanish with Olga and Genna on Wed. Dec. 12th and 26th at 1:00 PM. Yale Strom Klezmer Duo will usher in Hanukkah at JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center on Fri. Dec. 7th at 1:15 PM. Yale Strom is an accomplished klezmer violinist and ethnomusicologist who has devoted his life to collecting and preserving the music and culture of Eastern Europe from the Yiddish and Roma (gypsy) traditions. A holiday meal will be served at 12:15 PM. Suggested contribution for lunch is $2.00 and $2.00 for the entertainment. Dancing Crane Georgian Performing Arts ensemble will present a stunning program of ethnic music and dance on Sun. Dec. 9th at 1:15 PM. A festive lunch will be served at 12:15 PM followed by the performance. Georgian dance has a unique style that incorporates strength, elegance and graceful movement. The company presents dances and songs in authentic costumes from all regions of Georgia including mountain dances with swords, elegant court and women’s dances and regional folk dances. A nutrition talk by A. Jalandoni, RD will be given on Fri. Dec. 10th at 11:00 AM. Enjoy superb violin music by Gregori Gontmacher on Tues. Dec. 18th at 1:00 PM. ‘HIV 101’ by Bronx Aids Services will be presented on Wed. Dec. 19th at 11:15 AM. We are offering several culturally enriching day trips to artist Daniel Hauben’s show at Bronx Community College on Dec. 4th, Rockefeller Center on Dec. 12th

and the Cloisters on Dec. 18th. For information and reservations, please contact Maritza Silva at 718-549-4700. All meals at JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center are catered by Mauzone (kosher) Meal Service. We offer a daily alternate choice of main dish. We are located in the Van Cortlandt Jewish Center at 3880 Sedgwick Ave. off of Van Cortlandt Ave. West on the Bronx #1 or #10 bus routes. For more information, please call the center ofﬁce at 718-549-4700. JASA Van Cortlandt Senior Center is funded by NYC Dept. for the Aging, UJAFederation of NY and by special grants from Council Member Oliver Koppell and other NYS representatives.

Hebrew Home at Riverdale seeks volunteers

The Hebrew Home at Riverdale, located at 5901 Palisade Avenue in Riverdale, is currently seeking volunteers who would like to share their talents and time to help others. Available opportunities include, but are not limited to, reading to residents, administrative ofﬁce tasks, helping with crafts projects and much more. Hours are ﬂexible and assignments can be short term or ongoing. The Home provides orientation, training and continuing education for all volunteers. Volunteers who commit to three hours per day will be provided with a free lunch. For further information, please contact the Volunteer Department at (718) 581-1404.

The RIVERDALE REVIEW • Thursday, November 29, 2012

Riverdale Temple presents lecture series

Thursday, November 29, 2012 • The RIVERDALE REVIEW

Thanks to a quiet hero, two new schools were built Back in the late 1990s, a huge movement grew in Riverdale to create a locally zoned high school. Then, as now, there was little confidence in John F. Kennedy High School. This lack of confidence extended to the local middle school, J.H.S. 141. Folks here came up with a clever solution, spearheaded by this newspaper. What if the middle school and a new high school were combined and the zone were narrowed to just the local area—instead of serving a huge swath of the northwest Bronx, forcing many kids away from their neighborhoods and onto public transportation? The key element in this was the construction of a new school, one that was already planned for years, in the huge empty site between Kennedy High School and P.S. 37, just south of West 230th Street. Build that school and there would be plenty of room for an expanded school in the J.H.S. 141 building in Riverdale. There was little opposition and huge support—except from one quarter. That was the hard left, Alinskyite group, the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition. Since their inception, they advocated for a northwest Bronx of dependency and desperation and were getting what they wanted. The relative success of Riverdale stuck in their throats. As long as there was a successful, healthy community nearby that could serve as a model of self-reliance and traditional values, why would anyone aspire to live off of one government handout after another? Despite the fact that the Riverdale community was fighting to restore the integrated schools they once enjoyed (J.H.S. 141 was then only 15 percent white), the Alinskyites falsely branded them as racist. But with the support of Mayor Giuliani and Borough President Fernando Ferrer, the Riverdale Review’s concept caught on. Then-Chancellor Rudy Crew agreed to the plan to give Riverdale a combined middle school and high school and build a similar school, M.S./H.S. 368, on the empty site near Kennedy. This triumph got the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition up in arms. The victory of their hated Riverdale neighbors had to be thwarted at all costs. The assault on Riverdale came when a complaint was filed by one Lydia Saltzman, the head of paper group known as Parents Against Lead in Schools. Ms. Saltzman purported to have tested the premises at P.S. 37, right next to the empty lot, and claimed that the school was contaminated with lead. How could a new school be built on a plot of land that, she claimed, was contaminated with lead? Local elected officials and parent leaders were ready to give up their dream. But Assemblyman Dinowitz did notice one oddity. Ms. Saltzman, unknown in this community and affiliated with other radical groups connected with the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition, was listed as both the complainant and the person who performed the tests “proving” the existence of toxic levels of lead. This sounded fishy. So I decided to call a friend of mine, Irv Berkowitz. Irv was the guy you called when you learned that a property you own may have been contaminated with something, anything, decades ago. He’d have the land tested and if necessary, dig up every cubic foot, cart it to a toxic waste dump, and replace the contaminated soil with a nice, fresh uncontaminated replacement. I told him our sad story, and he laughed. “Don’t worry, just keep on this. There isn’t a reason in the world not to build on this site.” He explained that even if the site were contaminated with lead, the location posed no danger. “For a kid to become lead-poisoned, he’d have to sit himself down on the exposed soil with a spoon and chow down.” Irv explained that whatever lead might be there was a remnant of exhaust from the many thousands of cars that passed by the site when all gasoline contained lead, an additive abandoned years ago. And the very building over the exposed earth would itself protect future generations of lead- and dirt-eating kids who would be spared from such temptation. Irv also confirmed our suspicions about the testing. “Testing must be done in a controlled manner. There have to be clear procedures, and even strict control of the possession of the sample.” He confirmed that someone making a complaint would never herself conduct the test. “That would be done by an independent lab that could verify when and how the sample was taken and Continued on Page 19

Bronx woman dies on vacation

By TESS McRAE A local woman died while on vacation after she was denied seats on three separate New York-bound flights because of her size. Vilma Soltesz, who was 425 pounds with only one leg, was vacationing in Hungary with her husband Janos—on a trip they take almost every year. The couple, who live at Van Cortlandt Park South, planned to fly back to New York on October 15 so Soltesz could continue her medical treatment. But when they arrived at the airport, they were told that KLM airlines would be unable to accommodate them. The airline reportedly didn’t have the seatbelt extension, which adds 25 inches to a regular seatbelt, needed to secure Vilma. Only FAA-approved extenders are permitted for use. Airline contracts allow them to turn away travelers who cannot fit into a seat with the seatbelt fastened, even with a seatbelt extender. According to Janos Soltesz, his wife’s illnesses included kidney disease and diabetes, a combination that resulted in her gaining so much water weight that it became impossible for KLM to

seat her safely. After the couple were removed from the plane, they waited five hours while airline staffers made phone calls to get them on a different flight. They were finally told a Delta plane would be able to accommodate them, but they would have to drive five hours to an airport in Prague, where the plane was located. When the couple arrived in Prague, Delta told them the airline’s plastic wheelchair would be unable to support Vilma’s weight. Delta also couldn’t put her in the sky-life elevator. With no plane to board, they drove back to their vacation home and asked their travel agent in New York to make other arrangements. The agent found a Lufthansa flight to New York via Frankfurt on October 22. The airline had told the agent they could accommodate the 425-pound passenger. But again, the Solteszes were left at the gate. Despite help from a local fire department and the plane crew, Vilma could not be moved from her wheelchair over to the three seats assigned to her. After holding up the flight for 30 minutes,

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the captain ordered them off the plane. Again, they drove back to their vacation home. But Vilma, who didn’t trust the doctors in Hungary to treat her, was getting sicker. Two days later, Janos found his wife dead. She was buried in Hungary. Personal injury attorney Holly Ostrov Ronai is considering filing a multimillion-dollar lawsuit against the airlines. She accuses them of violating laws protecting the disabled. Whether or not Ronai has a case is yet to be seen. Because Vilma could not fit into a seat with a seatbelt extender, the airlines may be legally in the clear, but Ronai doesn’t see this as an excuse. In an interview with the New York Post, Ronai said the airlines “managed to get her over there and were obligated to get her home.” The issue of planes denying overweight passengers seats is becoming more common. In a less tragic example, a New Orleans native was told at the gate of her Southwest flight that she was too big to fly and that in order to be seated on the plane, she would be required to buy two seats to accommodate her size. Many similar cases have been reported. But for Vilma Soltesz, a flight back to New York could have been life-saving. Janos Soltesz could not be reached for comment but has told the New York Post, “there were only two women in my life—my mother, who I lived with for 23 years, and Vilma, who I lived with for 33 years.”

By JEANNE MACK Many locals are excited about transforming the Kingsbridge Armory into a nine-rink national ice center, but no one is more enthusiastic than Jim Breidenbach. A Riverdale resident for 53 years, Breidenbach believes that the ice rink facility could be “just what the doctor ordered” for the community and for hockey enthusiasts like him. Breidenbach has been involved in the game of hockey for 50 years. He learned to skate when he was seven years old on frozen ponds in the woods near his childhood home in Bayside, Queens, where he and the neighborhood kids would play. Two of those kids happened to be the sons of New York Rangers goalie Lorne John “Gump” Worsley.

A quiet hero Continued from Page 18 that it hadn’t been tampered with by an interested party.” By this time, the matter had taken a life of its own. P.S. 37 was closed down, and the Board of Education spent thousands testing every square inch. Despite this exhaustive testing, the results found by Lydia Saltzman could never be duplicated. But this clear deception still gave hope to the enemies of our community. Scores of panicked parents asked that their children be tested for lead poisoning. So the vampires took the blood of the children, hoping to kill the new school. But only two children—who were already documented as having elevated lead levels from their own homes—tested positive. Still, the Northwest Bronx radicals didn’t give up. They enlisted Dr. John Rosen of Montefiore Hospital, a controversial figure who gave frequent, paid testimony in lead-related lawsuits. Again, Irv Berkowitz told me not to worry and pointed me to Dr. Rosen’s many critics. He was right. After a bit of research and a few weeks of Riverdale Review headlines about the “Lead Hoax Doc,” Rosen disappeared. We were told local lawyers felt that his involvement in the deception would damage his credibility as an “expert” witness. Knowing what we knew, the plans for the new school were revived. But the Alinskyites weren’t through yet. One day, G. Oliver Koppell, then president of the school board, called to tell me that plans for the new school building were dead. “They found methane under the ground there,” he gravely informed me. “It’s over.” But the expert opinion of Irv Berkowitz again proved decisive. “There’s methane underground all over the place. Moreover, on your site, so close to the river, methane will always travel toward the water. It shouldn’t stop this project.” He was right, although an over-cautious city government spent tens of millions on unnecessary mitigation, and the project was delayed a year. Irv Berkowitz never asked for a penny. He freely gave his expert advice out of friendship and concern for the truth. He was responsible for the building of M.S./H.S. 368 as much, if not more, than any politician or crusading journalist, and he never asked for thanks or recognition. In fact, he shied from that, even after I told him just how decisive and important his advice was. Irv Berkowitz passed away last week after another major battle, this time against pancreatic cancer. Because of him, thousands of students have benefited from the new school in Marble Hill and children in our community have their own high school. He is a quiet hero who will be much missed.

Breidenbach recalls Worsley encouraged all the boys in the neighborhood to get out there and skate. That was the start of an infatuation with the game that has lasted Breidenbach’s whole life and has led him on a “wild ride” of highs and lows. Breidenbach played hockey on youth teams around Riverdale at the Skyview and Van Cortlandt Park skating rinks while he was growing up. While stationed in Keﬂavik, Iceland, with the Navy during the 1970s, Breidenbach went out of his way to organize hockey games with the other men. He would get a group together and ﬁnd places to play in Quonset huts fashioned into ice rinks. He then went on to play as a goalie in different hockey tournaments across Canada and tried out for the 1980 U.S. Olympic team. He continued playing in

commemorative championship ring. His career as an off-ice ofﬁcial ended with the 2004-2005 NHL lockout. After 14 years of service, he was not brought back. While Breidenbach is currently retired from hockey, his love for the game has not faded. So when he heard about the possibility of an ice center in his community, he was very supportive. Since hockey does not always get the same attention as baseball, basketball, and football, the ice facility could bring some recognition to the game. “It’d be a great chance for hockey to make a name for itself,” Breidenbach said. Although he realizes that not all new skaters will take to hockey or ice-skating in the zealous way that he did, Breidenbach believes skating is a positive activity and a “fantastic thing for kids to do to get off the streets.” He believes the ice center will create jobs for coaches, skating instructors, and off-ice ofﬁcials.

19 The RIVERDALE REVIEW • Thursday, November 29, 2012

Local resident oozes zeal for ice hockey

locations such as Banff and Montreal in Canada and Lake Placid in New York. In 1990, Breidenbach jumped at the chance to begin work as an NHL off-ice official, participating in the game from the other side of the boards. He worked for the New York Rangers as an off-ice official for 14 years. During that time he held positions as scoreboard operator, penalty box attendant, statistician and goal judge. Throughout his tenure as an off-ice official, Breidenbach relished his continued involvement in the game—for him, the opportunity to be “a physical part of a professional sporting event” was a great privilege. Briedenbach recalls without hesitation that the culmination of his career was the year 1994, when the New York Rangers finally won the Stanley Cup championship after a 54-year drought. It was the year that Jim Breidenbach got to drink from the Stanley Cup in the Rangers locker room. He still proudly wears the

Thursday, November 29, 2012 • The RIVERDALE REVIEW 20