Too busy at work or studying for finals to even think about gift shopping? No worries. We here at the Norwood News took the liberty of becoming your personal Bronx shopper. We have it all covered from gifts for the children to the adults, animals lovers to fashionistas, the food lovers and health nuts, technology whizzes to the pampered.  We searched throughout the northwest Bronx for the best deals economically and within your area to convenience for your wallet and travel. No need to thank us, it’s just our way of giving back this holiday season. (The slideshow put together by photographer Adi Talwar is from the Forhdam Road BID’s tree lighting event on Friday, Dec. 7.)

For the Children

This year, Leroy Pharmacy and LeMed Pharmacy are well into the holiday spirit. This year the pharmacies donated close to 100 turkeys to families, hosted many Thanksgiving dinners to many nonprofit and community-based organizations during November. Leroy Pharmacy is hosting the annual Santa Comes to 204th Street at its 314 E. 204th St. location (See ad on page 17) on Sat Dec. 15. Santa will hand out 500 free toys. The pharmacy donated all wrapping essentials and food to the 20-plus volunteers that showed up to wrap gifts on Dec. 8. In 2012, Leroy Pharmacy has modernized its dispensation technology in-house and are capable of serving over 200 patients per hour, allowing more valuable time for one-on-one consultations. “I enjoy seeing families happy and sharing the spirit of the holidays,” says Jay Dhaduk, RPH, of Leroy Pharmacy at 312 East 204th Street. “We are proud to be in this neighborhood for over 20 years.”

Want your children to look superb for the holidays? Of course you do and Nissan Kids will assist in doing so. They specialize in beautiful formal dresses and suits for kids. Their handmade gowns for the girls and tailored suits for boys are like no other. They also cater to first communion and christening outfits. They are currently having a holiday sale, deducting $10 off all regularly-priced dresses and suits. Their dresses vary in prices from $30 to $80 and the boys suits are $50. They also carry accessories for children like shoes, purses, stockings, tiaras and hair decorations. Nissan Kids is located on 2483 Grand Concourse between 188th Street and Fordham Road. For more information call (718) 563-2134.

Knowing how it feels to be in Santa’s shoes? Feeling a little overwhelmed with the amount of kids on your gift list? Well, the Toy Warehouse on 6 E. Fordham Road between Elm Place and Tiebout Avenue will have you quickly checking all those names off your list. There are so many toys for all ages. They have a large number of staff to help your shopping be swift and easy. Barbie dolls are as low as $2.99! Modeled helicopter that fly with controllers are $14.99. Microphones, guitars, pianos and drum set are all there to start a new kid’s band. The Toy Warehouse is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

For the Adults

First, let’s talk big ticket items.

You may have noticed something happening on the corner of Webster Avenue and East Gun Hill Road over the past year or so. That’s because LaSorsa Chevrolet has been completely overhauling its main showroom to better display its lineup of Chevy, Buick and Mitsubishi models. Now, new windows bring light into the classy and elegant new showroom where the sales staff is equipped with new computers and technology to better meet the needs of its customers. This holiday season, LaSorsa and Chevrolet are offering great financing deals, as low as 0% interest for 72 months on select models. The staff at LaSorsa also decided it wanted to be known as “the dealer that cares,” meaning no matter what happens when you visit, LaSorsa wants you to leave with a good experience. LaSorsa is located at 3510 Webster Ave. For more information, call (800) 743-1788.

On East 204th Street in Norwood, neighborhood gem Freilich Jewelers is offering a special that combines the classic with the cutting edge. With a purchase of $995 worth of jewelry, customers will receive a free Kindle Fire. For a purchase of $1,995 worth of Freilich jewelry, customers receive a free iPad 2. Owner Alan Freilich says the holiday season is a perfect time for purchasing engagement rings, which his store is well stocked with. And for the right price, you can also surf the internet or watch movies on your cool new tablet. Freilich Jewelers, located at 312 E. 204th St., is open seven days a week up until Dec. 23. For more information, call (718) 798-1063.

For a successful party or small gatherings take it from the well-known “Fernando,” the party planner seen on TV, go to North End Wine and Liquor on 2509 Webster Ave. Their selections are endless with different wines, champagnes, scotches/whiskeys, cognacs, tequilas, vodkas, rums, and stuff you probably never even heard of. They also have the perfect gift sets containing a desired bottle with ready to drink glasses or ready to prepare shakers.  A bottle of Bailey’s (Irish Cream) with two glasses costs $26.99. A bottle of Courvoisier (Cognac) with a flask costs $28.99.

For the Animal Lover

If you have that friend who is an animal lover on your Christmas list but are stumped on what to give them, just make it easy on yourself and go to Pet Paradise or Tropical Pets. They will help you pick out the best pet and supplies. Pet Paradise is located on 289 E. Gun Hill Rd and is open on Monday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. They have all kinds of fish and a big selection of exotic birds like finches, parrots, African Grey parrot and parakeets. The bird’s prices vary depending on the breed. They can be anywhere from $75 to $1,500. Tropical Pets, located on 308 E. 204th St. have a bigger selection of fish both saltwater and freshwater fish. They also carry reptiles, rodents, birds, cats and dogs. Their dogs vary in prices, according to breed and they start off at $600. Buying a puppy here will include the puppy’s first shots, on the house. To contact Pet Paradise, call (718) 881-2870 and for Tropical Pets, call (718) 798-2283.

For the Tech Whiz

Electronic Factory on 302 E. Fordham Rd. between Tiebout Avenue and Elm Place is full of all kinds of electronics. They have DJ equipment, TVs, and laptops starting at $129.99. Car audio, speakers, and cameras starting at $59.99. Cell phones are as low as $49.99. They even offer six months layaway free of charge.  For more info, call (347) 271-4845.

Bainbridge Video Games buys and sells used video games for fair prices. This video game store is located on 3120 Bainbridge Ave.

For Health and Fitness conscious

Most people’s resolution for the New Year is to take care of their bodies and start to work out. Help a friend fulfill this resolution by giving them a gym membership for Christmas. Soma Health Clubs on 368 E Gun Hill Rd offer packages with no commitment, six month commitment, one or two year commitment. A daily rate is $15; a one monthly rate is $99, while a month to month rate is $65. A six-month commitment paid in full cost $400.  A one-year commitment cost $49.99 monthly and paid in full cost $549.99. A two-year commitment cost $40 monthly and $850 paid in full. Becoming a member of Soma Health Club you will not be limited to just work out machines but you will have access to specialized classes like Zumba, Spin, Butt & Guts, Step Aerobics, Yoga, kickboxing, weight lifting, and the relaxing sauna. For more information call (718) 882-7662 or email Somahealthclubbronx@gmail.com.

For a cheaper, but less sophisticated excercise option, check out Mosholu Montefiore Community Center’s Energy Fitness Center at 3450 Dekalb Ave. For more info, call (718) 882-4000 or visit www.mmcc.org.

If you are looking for a gift for someone who is health conscious and loves indulging in organic goodies, then Forever Young, located on 12 W Kingsbridge Rd., is the place to shop. They specialize in natural and organic food, vitamins, minerals and even cosmetics. Forever Young offers a variety of items to fit the needs of anyone who is pursuing a healthier lifestyle. Be sure to browse the clearance items for great holiday deals.

Bronx Foot Rehabilitation Associates are located on 3112 Webster Ave. They welcome walk-ins and offer in-office hospital surgery for your convenience. To make an appointment or for more information, call (718) 655-3410.

To obtain or keep great smiles visit Dr. Jay Fensterstock at Concerned Dental Care. Concern Dental Care offers exams, x-rays, cleaning and whitening. Call (718) 652-7370 or visit www.ConcernedDentalCare.com for more information.

For the Fashionista

Every fashion-forward person knows that accessories make the outfit truly stand out and shine. The holidays are the perfect time to show off some sparkle. Endless Noise NYC, a unique jewelry line for females and males that captures both the rugged and glamorous essence of New York City, will make the holiday outfits complete.  Iran Ortiz, a Bronx native from Gun Hill, created Endless Noise NYC in 2009. Each of her artful pieces is hand-crafted using different materials like chains, plexiglass and swarovski crystals. Gift certificates are available at $5 and up. To see Endless Noise NYC line and place orders visit http://www.endlessnoisenyc.com/

Fashion is not only about looking good, it can also serve as a a statement. Strange Vixens Inc. exemplifies just that, making a statement without words. Vianca Frazier, born and raised in the Bronx, has been designing for five years. Her inspiration derives from burlesque, 1960s horror films and today’s New York City hipsters. The garments are professionally sewn and handmade. The apparel sizes run from petit to X-Large and custom orders for plus sizes. Strange Vixen’s Inc offers one of a kind couture dresses for $195, dresses starting at $55, outer wear starting at $38, swimwear starting at $35, sleep/lingerie starting at $9.50, everyday wear starting at $25, and accessories for $12.50. Strange Vixen’s Inc also offers gift-wrapping services for $5 including box, ribbon, bow, tag, personal greeting card, tissue paper, and candy. Shipping is free when spending $150 or more. To look at the Strange Vixen’s Inc.’s line and place orders, visit www.strangevixens.bigcartel.com/

And, of course, everyone needs new shoes! Blu Chus on 22 E. Kingsbridge Rd., is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m to 7:30 p.m. They are offering 10% off on all purchases now through Christmas.

For the Pampered

Joy Nail, on 3120 Bainbridge Ave, does manicures and pedicures for $20. They also offer gift certificates to pamper friends and family this holiday.

Everyone needs a haircut before the holiday festivities begin and Aydan Barber Shop & Spa is offering specials on services for men, women and children every Tuesday and Wednesday. They are located on 360 E. 204 St. For more information call (347) 945-2626.

The Laser Center, on 3062 Perry Ave, promises to remove unwanted hair safe, effective and painless for men, women and teens with all skin types. With upper lip treatments starting as low as $85, don’t dare enter the New Year with unwanted facial hair.

For the Non-shopper/ One-Stop Shop

If you are one of those shoppers that does not like going from store to store to find what you need than a simple stop at El Mundo Discount Department Store will do. El Mundo has three floors containing clothing for men, women and children. They have shoes, watches, perfumes and colognes. They have furniture and décor for the home like lamps and art pieces. There are electronics for adults and toys for the kids. Barbie dolls are as low as $7.99 and Lego dinosaurs for $10.99. Speakers for iPods are $35.99 and electric shavers for $20.99. Watches for men women and kids are as low as $11.99. There are designer shoes for women, including Carlos Santana, Rachel Roy and Alfani, all are only $34.99. Ties for men are two for $10.All women’s clothing and home décor are 20% off for the holidays. El Mundo Discount Department Store is located on 2510 Valentine Ave.

Paradise Pawnbrokers, a 60-year-old family-run business, will be offering 25% off on gold, diamonds and watches. They offer an assortment of fine jewelry, along with musical instruments and small electronics. The regular business hours are Monday to Friday, from 9a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Extended Christmas hours are set to begin on Saturday, Dec15. Paradise Pawnbrokers are located on 3478 Jerome Ave. To contact them call (718) 295-8900.

Whenever the sun is shining, take the opportunity and head to the Fordham Plaza Market and get some holiday shopping done. Vendors gather together and sell an assortment of items perfect for stocking stuffers. From gold-plated jewelry, cell phone accessories, fragrances and toys. It is right on Fordham Plaza. You can’t miss the white tents.

For the Food Lovers

The holidays just aren’t the holidays without family and good food. VIP’s Café, located on 131 E. Gun Hill Rd., offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, take out, full bar, happy hour, and catering. For more information call (718) 655-8500.

Make sure you have your meat and poultry for those delicious holiday dinners. Go to Hillside Meat & Deli Market located at 3117 Bainbridge Ave. They are open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. they accept payments with debit, credit and EBT.

MD Café Lounge has holiday catering packages and they deliver for free. Book a private party, events, or corporate function with them. They are located on 3489 Jerome Ave. To contact them call (347) 899-8300.

You can order a full holiday dinner from Mar y Tierra Restaurant and Lounge, located on 3236 Bainbridge Ave. (near Van Cortlandt Avenue). They have offers of a either a whole turkey, a whole pernil (pork shoulder), half a rotisserie chickens, each includes large rice with peas, large salad and a soda for $55. Put in your orders in advance by calling (718) 635-7764.

Know someone with a sweet tooth? Then the Bainbridge Bakery, at 3109 Bainbridge Ave, is the place to pick up a couple freshly baked pastries for them. They offer holiday-decorated cookies for $10 a pound. Cakes and pies should be pre-ordered two to three days in advance. Pies cost $8 to $10 and cakes are $18 and up. For more information call (718) 882-4409.

National Bakery, located on 3492 Jerome Ave, has different flavored pastries one being their great cappuccino and chocolate cake. For more information call (718) 231-3029.

Furniture 

Oak Furniture, located on 3537 Jerome Ave, has different kinds of furniture. They have everything from living room sets, bedroom sets, dining room sets, home office, entertainment, and outdoor furniture. For further information call (718) 515-5625.

Baby Boom Furniture located on 3204 Bainbridge Ave does not only sell baby furniture but bedroom sets, living room sets, dining room sets, and kid’s bedroom sets. They have different styles of furniture like contemporary, modern, antique, and vintage. They do same day delivery and offer free lay-a-way financing without putting anything down for a deposit or interest for 12 months. For more information call (718) 515-9946.

Capital Furniture has a holiday sale up to 50% off of all furniture. Capital Furniture is located on 3113 Bainbridge. For more information call (347) 346-7195.

Enjoy the shopping! Happy Holidays from the Norwood News!

—With Brittney Jackson and Diana Perez

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Welcome to the Norwood News, a bi-weekly community newspaper that primarily serves the northwest Bronx communities of Norwood, Bedford Park, Fordham and University Heights. Through our Breaking Bronx blog, we focus on news and information for those neighborhoods, but aim to cover as much Bronx-related news as possible. Founded in 1988 by Mosholu Preservation Corporation, a not-for-profit affiliate of Montefiore Medical Center, the Norwood News began as a monthly and grew to a bi-weekly in 1994. In September 2003 the paper expanded to cover University Heights and now covers all the neighborhoods of Community District 7. The Norwood News exists to foster communication among citizens and organizations and to be a tool for neighborhood development efforts. The Norwood News runs the Bronx Youth Journalism Heard, a journalism training program for Bronx high school students. As you navigate this website, please let us know if you discover any glitches or if you have any suggestions. We’d love to hear from you. You can send e-mails to norwoodnews@norwoodnews.org or call us anytime (718) 324-4998.