KRVC - Join The 4Bronx Project's 5th Annual Christmas Toy Drive!

 

 Join The 4Bronx Project's 5th Annual Christmas Toy Drive! 

We are collecting toys so that over 700 homeless Bronx kids can have a magical Christmas. 

This year's drive is dedicated to the memory of the inspiring Kevin Joseph Farrell. Kevin's spirit—full of kindness, humor, and heart—continues to uplift our community and inspire us daily. In his honor, we are striving to gift Christmas presents to 700 children living in Bronx shelters for 2025.

Kevin was the kind of person who would lend a hand to anyone, any day, no questions asked—let's honor his legacy by spreading boundless cheer this holiday season.

How can YOU donate?

Option 1:

Purchase a toy from our Amazon Wishlist.

I am fulfilling lists by shelter to stay organized. I will add more toys when first round is purchased. Please click on the link. These are specific toys requested by the children. 

CLICK HERE:

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1Y8C4K2FHI4UY?ref_=list_d_wl_ys_list_1

Option 2:

You can make a monetary donation and we will purchase the toys on a big shopping run. Please write in the comments "Toy Drive" (All donations made via option 2 are tax-deductible, as we are a 501(c)(3). 

CLICK HERE: 

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=X3EC4LPL689D2

Option 3:

Drop off an unwrapped new toy at our participating drop-off sites. Thank you to our amazing small businesses for stepping up. Please note that each business has their own set of operating hours and to please check which business accommodates your drop-off time.

Drop-off Site Participating Businesses:

Regal Pharmacy- Ask for Barbara! 

Ocean First Bank (W235th)

Douglas Elliman Real Estate 

Key Food (W235th)

Blackstone Bar and Grill

Tin Marin

YoBurger 

Larry The Locksmith 

Neem Indian Cuisine 

Riverdale Specialty Pharmacy 

Skyview 5700-5900 (residents only)

Eco Salon 

Touch of Sun 

Mandy's Hair and Spa

Home BX Steakhouse 

Riverdale Senior Services 

Tilila

3x3 Kitchen 

Tobala

Emiliano’s 

The Windsors 

Universal Pets 

Santa Fe 

Chris Shoe Repair 

Fieldston Gardens 

Apple Bank 

555 Kappock (River Point Towers)

Washington Heights/Inwood Area:

Tubby Hook

Tryon Public House 

Rivas All Services

 

 Please click on the link to donate. Your contribution ensures that KRVC can continue with our programming. Thank you! 



https://www.505bx.org/donate.html

Permits Filed for 2323 Valentine Avenue in Fordham Heights, The Bronx

 

Permits have been filed for a 12-story residential building at 2323 Valentine Avenue in Fordham Heights, The Bronx. Located between East 183rd Street and East 184th Street, the lot is near the 182–183 Streets subway station, served by the B and D trains. Erenik Nezaj is listed as the owner behind the applications.

The proposed 125-foot-tall development will yield 40,040 square feet designated for residential space. The building will have 63 residences, most likely rentals based on the average unit scope of 635 square feet. The concrete-based structure will also have a 30-foot-long rear yard.

Jakov Saric of Node Architecture, Engineering, Consulting PC is listed as the architect of record.

Demolition permits will likely not be needed as the lot is vacant. An estimated completion date has not been announced.

CONSUMER ALERT: Ahead of Cyber Monday, the NYS Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection Warns Shoppers About AI-Generated Fraud and Scams Online

 

Watch out for AI-Generated Stores and Counterfeit Products 

Secretary Mosley: “There are more and more fake websites and scammers out there trying to take advantage of New Yorkers purchasing gifts for their loved ones this time of year. These tips from the Division of Consumer Protection will keep you one step ahead of these fraudsters.”

As we enter the holiday shopping season, the Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is reminding New Yorkers shopping online to remain vigilant about scams and the overall safety of the products we purchase. New laws signed by Governor Hochul require online stores to conspicuously disclose refund policies and the use of algorithms to set prices for consumers — but with scams always evolving and the surge in AI-generated fraud, it’s important for consumers to make sure they are cautious when shopping online. The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is providing tips to help New Yorkers shop safely to avoid the loss of time and money during this busy holiday season. To protect yourself and your family, consumers should be aware of current trends and follow these important tips.  

“Don’t take the clickbait while browsing online this Cyber Monday,” said Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. “There are more and more fake websites and scammers out there trying to take advantage of New Yorkers purchasing gifts for their loved ones this time of year. These tips from the Division of Consumer Protection will keep you one step ahead of these fraudsters as you do your holiday shopping.”

The Latest Online Shopping Scams:

Scammers are creating AI-generated sites that lure shoppers to fake online stores. In 2024, New York consumers reported over $17 million in losses from online shopping scams and over $41 million in losses relating to business imposters, according to data collected by the Federal Trade Commission. In addition, counterfeit products are becoming more common when shopping online. In addition to being a waste of money, these products may pose serious safety hazards.  According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, in fiscal 2025, they seized nearly 79 million counterfeit items. Counterfeit clothing, consumer electronics, toys and medications were among the top seized items.

Tips to Avoid Online Shopping Scams:

• Verify the seller: If you’re unfamiliar with a seller, be cautious and do your research before buying. Search online for information about the company’s reputation and consult consumer reviews.
• Beware of fake AI-generated websites: Scammers often create fake websites to imitate legitimate brands. Review the seller and product before buying by carefully inspecting the URL. If the domain name doesn’t match the official company name or website, it could be a scam site. Scammers will make slight changes to trick your eye (ie: replacing a zero for an o, or adding a dash mark or extensions at the end). That’s why it is important to look carefully at the URL before shopping. Scammers often copy websites, but they cannot replicate a company’s official URL.
• Be careful when shopping on social media: Scammers may use social media to lure shoppers to fake online businesses that trick customers into paying for products that never arrive. They may lure consumers with unrealistic discounts, fake reviews and fake AI generated product images.If an offer seems too good to be true, it usually is. Don’t purchase a product directly from the social media site or a link you find on the site. Open a new browser and make your purchase through the retailer’s official website. If it is not a known or trusted store, do some research: put the name of the vendor into your browser and write the word “scam” next to it to see if other people have made complaints.
• Watch out for 3^rdparty seller scams: Confirm the legitimacy of the seller if shopping in an online marketplace. If redirected from a trusted site to a third-party site, read the seller’s policies and reviews, look for any consumer comments and, most importantly, do a broad internet search on the seller before making your purchase. Warranties from trusted sites may not cover third party sellers they host, so you could be unprotected if you get a substandard product or no product at all when you order from an unknown third-party vendor.
• Check for suspicious AI-generated product images or AI-generated models: Examine images closely and look for unrealistic, inconsistent details. Check for flaws like blurry areas, inconsistent lines or objects that seem to fade away, which are common imperfections in AI-generated images. Look for unrealistic, inconsistent details throughout the image. 
• Read product specifications and terms: Make sure you read product descriptions carefully, including the fine print. It’s important to understand what you’re purchasing and the terms of sale to ensure you are getting what you want.
• Learn how to spot a fake review: Fake reviews are not always obvious, so look at reviews from a variety of different sources to better understand the product, brand or seller. Some red flags to look for include a review with no specific details, multiple reviews posted during the same time frame, or a reviewer profile that looks vague and recently created.
• Check for return policies: Sellers, including online sellers, must disclose their return policies. Avoid sellers with vague, missing or exceedingly limited return or refund policies. Before making a purchase, make sure you know who pays shipping costs for returns and any time limits for making returns.
• Check for algorithmic pricing: Online businesses may use AI or other automated processes to collect and use personal information in setting prices. New York State Law requires businesses to alert consumers when they have used their personal data to set a price using an algorithm. Look for these disclosures and consider comparison shopping or shopping through alternate methods if the price seems high.

Tips to avoid buying unsafe or counterfeit products:

• Inspect the package: Look for spelling mistakes, sloppy packaging, or lack of an origin box. These are signs of a counterfeit product. 
• Scan the universal product code: Many products have a Quick Response (QR) code on the packaging or on the product itself. The QR code links directly to information about the product through your phone or an app. These QR codes serve to improve transparency and may link directly to a dedicated authentication portal on the manufacturer's website which has verifiable product details.
• Buy from authorized sources: Purchase directly from the brand's official website or through authorized retailers listed on the company's site.

Tips to use safe payment methods:

• Check the website’s encryption: Before entering your credit card information, make sure that the website’s address (URL) begins with “https” and that there is a closed lock on the website address bar or unbroken key symbol in the lower portion of your window. These indicators show that the site is secured with a digital certificate and that any information sent between your browser and the website is sent securely.
• Don’t save your payment information on websites: Many websites allow you to save your credit or debit card information for future purchases. Always opt out and instead enteryour card number each time you make a purchase.
• Pick your payment method wisely: Credit cards generally offer some level of fraud protection to help consumers get their money back if you ever need to dispute a charge. If you realize you paid a scammer, immediately report the payment to your bank or credit card company. The earlier you report fraud, the more likely you will be able to access available services and get your money back. Avoid using debit cards for online purchases. Debit cards do not offer the same level of protection against identity theft as credit cards. 

About the New York State Division of Consumer Protection

Follow the New York Department of State on Facebook, X and Instagram and check in every Tuesday for more practical tips that educate and empower New York consumers on a variety of topics. Sign up to receive consumer alerts directly to your email or phone here.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides voluntary mediation between a consumer and a business when a consumer has been unsuccessful at reaching a resolution on their own. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection. The Division can also be reached via X at @NYSConsumer or Facebook.

The United States Announces Agreement with Northwestern University

 

The U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of Education, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reached an agreement with Northwestern University (Northwestern) to safeguard its students, employees, and faculty from unlawful discrimination based on race, religion, sex, or national origin, including race-based admissions practices and a hostile educational environment directed toward Jewish students.

As part of the agreement, Northwestern University will pay $75 million to the United States through 2028. Northwestern agrees to adhere to federal anti-discrimination laws, ensuring that the university does not preference individuals based on race, color, or national origin in admissions, scholarships, hiring, or promotion. Northwestern shall maintain clear policies and procedures relating to demonstrations, protests, displays, and other expressive activities, as well as implement mandatory antisemitism training for all students, faculty, and staff.

Northwestern’s President and Chair of the Board of Trustees shall each certify under penalty of perjury each quarter the university’s full compliance with the agreement. The United States shall close pending investigations and treat Northwestern as eligible for future grants, contracts, and awards.

“This settlement marks another victory in the Trump Administration’s fight to ensure that American educational institutions protect Jewish students and put merit first,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Institutions that accept federal funds are obligated to follow civil rights law — we are grateful to Northwestern for negotiating this historic deal.”

“Universities that receive federal funding have a responsibility to comply with the law, including protecting against racial discrimination and antisemitism,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We appreciate the significant improvements Northwestern has made and are gratified to reach an agreement that safeguards of rights of all the university’s applicants, students, and employees.”

“The Northwestern agreement is a huge win for current and future Northwestern students, alumni, faculty, and for the future of American higher education,” U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “The deal cements policy changes that ‘will protect students and other members of the campus from harassment and discrimination,’ and it recommits the school to merit-based hiring and admissions. The reforms reflect bold leadership at Northwestern, and they are a roadmap for institutional leaders around the country that will help rebuild public trust in our colleges and universities. Congrats to Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon and all those involved in negotiating this landmark deal!”

VCJC to have a Chanukah party on Monday, December 15th

Van Cortlandt Jewish Center Invites the Community to a Free Chanukah Celebration 

The Van Cortlandt Jewish Center (VCJC), located at 3880 Sedgwick Avenue (next to the construction), invites people of all faiths to a joyful community Chanukah party on Monday, December 15th, at 7 PM, marking the lighting of the second candle.

 

The evening will feature live entertainment by well-known musician and singer Chaim Zadok, dreidel games and gifts for children, $1 raffles with a wide array of exciting prizes, and traditional holiday treats including freshly made latkes and jelly donuts. Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend.

 

The VCJC looks forward to bringing neighbors together to share in the warmth and light of the holiday season.

 

For more information, please get in touch with the Van Cortlandt Jewish Center at 718-884-6105 or info@vcjewishcenter.org.

Governor Hochul Encourages New Yorkers to Shop Small During the Holiday Season

Supporting Local Businesses on Saturday, November 29 and Throughout the Year Fuels Job Creation, Innovation, and Community Growth

Governor Kathy Hochul encouraged New Yorkers to support local businesses during the holiday shopping season by highlighting the critical role New York's small businesses play in building vibrant communities across the state. On November 29, New York will mark Small Business Saturday to celebrate the significant impact small businesses have on local economies across the state. In honor of the day, Governor Hochul is taking the opportunity to emphasize how choosing local retailers, restaurants and service providers creates a ripple effect of economic growth throughout New York's communities.

“Every time we choose a local shop, restaurant, or service provider, we’re investing in our neighbors and our neighborhoods,” Governor Hochul said. “As the daughter of a small business owner, I know the long hours, hard work, and heart that go into running a family business. Small Business Saturday is a reminder that our local enterprises aren’t just places to shop, they’re engines of opportunity and cornerstones of community. This holiday season, I encourage New Yorkers to shop small and help keep our main streets thriving.”

New York’s retail sector includes more than 70,000 stores, of which approximately 56,700 — 81 percent — are independently owned. Retailers are a critical engine of economic activity: 7.35 percent of all New York small businesses are retailers, the sector generated $507 billion in sales in 2024, and retail stores collected $20.3 billion in state sales tax. Retail workers across the state earn an average of $971 per week, underscoring the industry’s essential role in supporting jobs, household income, and local economic growth.

Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State has expanded access to capital, technical assistance, and training to help entrepreneurs launch, grow, and strengthen their businesses. Empire State Development offers a suite of programs tailored to meet the needs of startups, early-stage ventures, and established small businesses across every region of the state, including:

• Main Street Capital Loan Fund: Provides loans of up to $100,000 to startups and early-stage businesses, with a focus on communities that have historically lacked access to affordable credit. Loans may be used for working capital, equipment, essential assets, and hiring. To lower early startup costs, borrowers make interest-only payments during the first year. Learn more: https://esd.ny.gov/main-street-capital-loan-fund
• Small Business Technical Assistance: A statewide program offering free expert legal, accounting, and financial services to help small businesses and startups navigate funding requirements and improve access to capital. Learn more: https://esd.ny.gov/ssbci-technical-assistance-program
• Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers: A network of 26 centers providing training, technical assistance, and business development support to new and early-stage entrepreneurs. Learn more: https://esd.ny.gov/entrepreneurship-assistance-centers-program
• Low Interest Capital Program (LINC): Formerly the Linked Deposit Program, LINC was expanded by Governor Hochul to increase total loan capacity from $560 million to $1.1 billion. The program helps small businesses secure financing at more affordable interest rates, supporting approximately 6,000 businesses, enabling $2 billion in lending, and leveraging over $4 billion in new capital investments. Learn more: https://esd.ny.gov/linked-deposit-program

The New York State Department of Labor offers a number of no-cost services for businesses of all sizes. Businesses have access to nearly 190,000 job postings and tens of thousands of qualified candidates in our talent pool on our website. NYSDOL also provides career fairs, customized recruitments, and human resources consultation services. Each year, more than 25,000 businesses partner with NYSDOL to list open positions, find candidates, access hiring and training incentives, obtain business tax credits, and get expert help with labor law, workplace health and safety, and layoff resources. For more information, visit: dol.ny.gov/services-businesses.

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets supports New York's nearly 32,000 farms, 700 farmers' markets and farm stands, and thousands of small agribusinesses through a variety of initiatives that aim to enhance their business and increase productivity, profitability, and competitiveness. It also provides direct promotional opportunities through initiatives like the NYS Grown & Certified program and the Taste NY program. New Yorkers and visitors alike can support New York farmers and food and beverage businesses by shopping for the holidays at any one of the more than 70 Taste NY locations across the State, including Taste NY Markets at the State's Welcome Centers. The markets are stocked with local products made and produced by New York farms and food and beverage producers unique to the State’s 10 regions. From local, gourmet food items and locally produced craft beverages to novelty items and even bath and beauty products, gifts at stores range in size and price and can be customized. Visit taste.ny.gov to find your local Welcome Center and Taste NY Market.

Taste NY’s online marketplace, ShopTasteNY.com, operated by Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County, also offers opportunities to shop for New York agricultural products and gifts from the comfort of home. ShopTasteNY.com offers a variety of products from across New York, from honey and jams to hand crafted creations, reflecting each region’s unique offerings. Shoppers can get 30 percent off on their order during Small Business Saturday.

Ways To Support Small Businesses Every Day

• Shop Local: Visit independently owned retailers and service providers in your community.
• Buy Gift Cards: Support local businesses with upfront sales that encourage future visits.
• Explore Farmers’ Markets: Find unique, locally made gifts and seasonal foods.
• Shop Taste NY: Discover the best of New York’s farms and artisans at Taste NY locations or online at Taste.NY.gov.
• Dine Locally: Enjoy meals at neighborhood restaurants and cafés.
• Spread the Word: Share your experiences on social media and review sites.
• Choose Store Credit: When returning items, opt for store credit to keep money circulating locally.

 

Van Cortlandt Park Alliance - Wrap Up The Year in Your Favorite Place

 

Trail Work Thursdays

Thursdays, December 4, 11, 18 - Meet at 9am

Blaze trails with us! Whether you’re an experienced trailblazer or new to trail maintenance, your help will make a significant impact to ensure trail safety for runners and hikers.

RSVP Now

Meet at VCPA Learning Garden 

 

Forest Fridays

Fridays, December 5, 12, 19 - Meet at 9am

Help restore Van Cortlandt Park’s vital northwest forest by removing invasive plants like multiflora rose, bittersweet, and porcelain berry. Your efforts will create space for native plants to thrive and support long-term forest health.

RSVP Now

Meet at VCPA Learning Garden

Birding with NYC Bird Alliance

Saturday, December 6 - meet at 9am

Explore Van Cortlandt Park’s ecologically diverse grounds and celebrate a long tradition of birding in the park. Each walk will be led by a NYC Bird Alliance guide.

RSVP Required

Van Cortlandt Nature Center

Woodlawn Wednesdays

Wednesdays, December 10, 17 - Meet at 10am

We are bringing a few Wednesdays back to Woodlawn! Tackle harmful plants like multiflora rose, bush honeysuckle, bittersweet, and Japanese angelica trees that threaten our native biodiversity in the northeast forest.

RSVP Now

Meet at Woodlawn Playground

End of Autumn Hike in the Park

Saturday, December 13 at 10am

This guided nature hike is the perfect way to spend your day before the snowy winter settles in. Hike through peaceful trails, enjoy the last bit of leaves falling to the ground, and reconnect with the outdoors during this calm, beautiful transition into winter.

RSVP Now

Learning Garde

Winter Wreath Workshop

Saturday, December 13 from 11am to 2pm

After a short hike in the park to pull and collect invasives like bittersweet, you’ll mold the twisted woody vine into a wreath, ready to decorate with a mix of festive natural and artificial materials. This DIY workshop is perfect for environmental enthusiasts, craft-lovers, and anyone who wants to spread festive cheer!

General Admission (age 17+): $25

Junior Admission (age 10 -16): $15

Junior Admission ticket holders must be accompanied by an adult with a GA ticket.

Get Your Tickets Now

Van Cortlandt Golf House

Van Cortlandt Nature Group Walks

Sunday, December 14 at 10am meets in front of Nature Center

Wednesday, December 17 at 2pm meets in Riverdale Stables parking lot

Take a slow walk in the park and learn about local flora and fauna with naturalist Debbi Dolan. Debbi has a wealth of knowledge about nature, plants, and wildlife that she enjoys sharing.

Register for 12/14 Walk

Register for 12/17 Walk

Welcoming Winter: A Family Nature Hike

Sunday, December 21 at 10:30am

In this free, guided hike, families can hit the trails while learning about amazing local plants and animals, and how the park changes in the colder weather.

Afterwards, join us for a nature craft and themed activities!

RSVP Now

Van Cortlandt Golf House

Support Our Work in Van Cortlandt Park

 

Make a Donation

The park is really big. Our staff is really small. Only with your help can we grow our capacity, hire more staff, and take on projects to improve Van Cortlandt Park… for YOU!  Please consider a gift to Van Cortlandt Park Alliance today.

Donate!

VCPA Merch Shop!

Show your love for Van Cortlandt Park while supporting the Alliance!

Shop Now!

Become a Member

Members get VCPA merch and invitations to member only hikes while supporting their favorite park!

Join Now!

Our Contact Information
Van Cortlandt Park Alliance
80 Van Cortlandt Park South, Ste. E1
Bronx, NY 10463
718-601-1460
http://vancortlandt.org