Moving Pictures: And The Aqua Teen Hunger Force Fanbase

On Thursday, July 29, and Friday, July 30, 2010, the television programming block “Adult Swim” is scheduled to film interior scenes at 483 Washington Avenue between Fulton Street and Gates Street.

APPROXIMATE TIME: 8:30am-10:30pm

ATTENTION: CM James Calls for School Supplies for Children

Join Council Member Letitia James in providing new school supplies (paper, pens, pencils, books, bookbags, etc.) for children who are need of these necessary items for the upcoming 2010-2011 school year.

Please drop-off donations at 67 Hanson Place, Brooklyn, NY 11217 by Friday, August 27th.

Call 718-260-9191 for more information.

Moving Pictures: Bringing Various Crime Dramedies To You

On Saturday, July 24 and Friday, July 25, 2010 a commercial for “USA Networks” is scheduled to film interior and exterior scenes on Ashland Place between Lafayette Avenue and Hanson Place.

APPROXIMATE TIME: 2pm-9pm (7/24)

11am-7pm (7/25)

ATTENTION: Met Council Accepting Applications for Senior Affordable Housing

Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty is pleased to announce that they are accepting applications for the waiting list of senior affordable housing rental apartments in a building located in the Lincoln Square section of Manhattan.

These studio apartments are for one person households only. The age eligibility requirement is 62 years of age at the time of completing the application. Rent range is below $900 a month, and there is an income limit.

Monthly rent includes heat, hot water and gas for cooking. Seniors will be required to meet income guidelines and additional selection criteria to qualify. Income limits are subject to change based on the area median income. One application per household.

Applications may be downloaded from: http://www.metcouncil.org/, or requested by mail from-
Council Management/West 61st Street Residence
80 Maiden Lane, 21st floor
New York, NY 10038

Please include a self-addressed envelope. There is no application fee.

Moving Pictures: Our Idiot Brother

On Friday July 23, 2010 the feature film “My Idiot Brother” is scheduled to film interior scenes at 470 Flushing Avenue between Spencer Street and Walworth Street.

APPROXIMATE TIME: 12pm-6am

FRIA SELECTED AS AN OFFICIAL CHARITY FOR THE 2010 ING NYC MARATHON

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Lisa Jackson
Lilclif@verizon.net


FRIA SELECTED AS AN OFFICIAL CHARITY FOR THE 2010 ING NEW YORK CITY MARATHON

District 35 Council Member Letitia James joins FRIA on the steps of City Hall, Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 12 Noon, for the RUN-Raise fund-raiser to support FRIA’s programs and services for New York Elders and Their Caregivers

ALERT: This press conference was originally scheduled for 11am and moved to 12pm.New York, NY – July 20, 2010 – On Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 12 Noon, Council Member Letitia James, other elected officials and supporters of FRIA will join FRIA on the steps of City Hall to announce its selection as one of the Official Charities for the 2010 ING New York City Marathon to take place on Sunday, November 7, 2010, as well as inform the public that it will also be accepting donations. This opportunity allows FRIA to provide guaranteed marathon entries to 5 runners who pledge to raise a minimum of $2500 each for FRIA.

The marathon lottery is officially closed for 2010; hence, running for an official ING NYC Marathon Charity is the only way an applicant may run in the marathon. This is not only an opportunity to run in the premier race attracting world-class professional athletes before two million cheering spectators and 315 million worldwide television viewers…. but also a great opportunity to support New York’s leading elder-care advocacy organization dedicated to fostering the dignity and independence of seniors in long term care settings. It is befitting that this opportunity present itself in November, which is National Family Caregivers Month.

For over 30 years, FRIA has provided resources, information and advocacy on long term care issues to New York elders, their caregivers, elder-care attorneys and other health care professionals. As an Official Charity Partner, FRIA is building a team of five designated FRIA runners, other already registered marathoners and supporters from New York and afar who will donate and RUNRaise on behalf of FRIA. All funds raised by Team FRIA will be used to support FRIA's programs and services.

FRIA is pleased to be joined by New York City Council Member, Letitia James of Brooklyn’s 35th District; Olanike Alabi, District Leader of the 57th Assembly District; other elected officials and/or their staff.

“I am proud to be a friend of FRIA because this organization supports those shoulders the community stands on….the elderly and their caregivers. Also, now that FRIA is an official charity for the 2010 ING New York City Marathon, 5 more athletes will have the opportunity to run in the world’s premiere marathon, as well as fundraise for New York ’s leading elder-care advocacy organization,” said Council Member James. “Every November I join my neighbors in supporting runners, and this year my level of enthusiasm will be unmatched when FRIA runners pass by my residence, as they race through the 35th Council District on the way to the finish line.”

FRIA’s Board Members, one of whom is 88 year old Ethel Paley, a founding member of FRIA (and former NY1 News, New Yorker of The Week) who still volunteers with FRIA’s Help Line, will attend; along with caregivers who FRIA has assisted and supporters of FRIA over the years. Quintessential New Yorkers and caregivers, Tony Award winning stage/screen actress, Adriane Lenox (“Doubt”) and her husband, Tony Award Nominated Composer & Music Director, Zane Mark (“Bring In ‘Da Noise, Bring In ‘Da Funk”) will also be present.

Moving Pictures: Without or Without You

On Wednesday, July 21, 2010, a feature film production of “My Last Day Without You” will be shooting exterior scenes at 88 Hanson Place between South Portland Avenue & South Oxford Street.

APPROXIMATE TIME: 6am – 10pm.

CM James Holds Vigil in Honor of Aileen McKay-Dalton

On the evening of July 14th, Council member Letitia James held a candlelight vigil honoring the late Aileen McKay-Dalton. Last Thursday, Aileen McKay-Dalton was traveling by motor scooter and was struck by an SUV vehicle at DeKalb and Clinton Avenues in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn.

A crowd of over 75 people deemed the Fort Greene resident a pillar of her community and a dear friend. Mrs. McKay-Dalton leaves behind a husband and three children, as well as many friends and acquaintances who were touched by her warmth and generosity. "Aileen really loved living in Brooklyn...we're going to miss her forever", said a friend of the family. "She touched everybody that she met", said another friend.

To date, the NYPD has declined to investigate this incident and has ruled there was no crime committed. Council Member Letitia James believes that the NYPD mishandled the initial investigation by ruling that there was no criminality even though witnesses say the vehicle that hit Mrs. McKay-Dalton was speeding and had run a red light.

We applaud the efforts of Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes for conducting his own criminal investigation into the awful death of the Ms. McKay-Dalton. However, Council Member James is also urging Mayor Bloomberg and Commissioner Kelly to carry out a NYPD investigation looking into the circumstances surrounding this terrible accident.

If you are interested in joining Council Member James in requesting an investigation, please sign our petition by visiting the following link:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/fgvestaaccidentjustice

It is evident that this tragic traffic accident has deeply touched the neighborhoods of Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. The thoughts and prayers of the entire community are with the family during this most difficult time.

CM James Calls for Investigation into Fatal Scooter Accident

**For Immediate Release**
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

Council Member Letitia James Calls for Investigation into Fatal Scooter Accident

(Brooklyn, NY)— At 5:30 p.m. on July 8, 2010, a 40-year-old woman traveling by motor scooter was struck by an SUV vehicle that ran a red light near DeKalb and Clinton Avenues in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. As a result of the incident, the woman sustained fatal injuries.

At this time, the individual driving the SUV has been neither identified nor placed under arrest by the NYPD. Additionally, it is believed that the driver is currently a member of a federal law enforcement agency. It is unclear whether this individual was traveling at the time in an official capacity.

“This tragedy claimed the life of an innocent individual. The NYPD must investigate the circumstances of this incident, and communicate openly with the victim's family, my office, and the community at large,” said Fort Greene Council Member Letitia James. “I am calling for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. The thoughts and prayers of the entire community are with the family during this most difficult time.”

ATTENTION: Construction Updates in 35th District

Beginning Saturday, July 17th, the New York City Department of Transportation will add bike lanes to Flushing Avenue, South of the Brooklyn Navy Yard. This plan will reduce the travel lanes to one lane in each direction, and result in the removal of on-street parking on the north side of Flushing.

Please see the attached flyer for further information, or contact our office at (718) 260-9191.

__________

Due to roadway construction
expected to start the week of July 12th, Fulton Street from Boerum Place to Flatbush Avenue will be closed over the next two months. The first sequence of construction will be from Boerum Place to Smith Street.

Here are more specific details:
1. There will be a full closure of Fulton Street at the areas being renovated.

2. The bulk of the demolition work will be at night with the remaining roadwork to take place during the day.

3. Side streets will remain open and construction will be phased such that north and south movement through Fulton Street will be maintained at all times.

4. As always, deliveries will not be permitted on Fulton Street. Please use side street loading/unloading zones which will remain available during roadbed construction.

5. Emergency vehicles will continue to have access along Fulton Street.

6. Private garbage pick up and delivery arrangements need to be coordinated beforehand.

7. NYC Transit will be rerouting buses to Livingston Street during this time period.

8. NYC Transit will be responsible for communicating these route changes to the riding public.

Please contact the Fulton Streetscape Project Community Liaison at 917-337-3477 if you have any further questions.

NYCDOH and CAMBA Launch HIV Respect Campaign Targetting Communities of Color

The social services organization CAMBA has launched an HIV Anti-Stigma Program consisting of a theater trope and a social marketing campaign meant to promote respect and compassion for those afflicted by HIV.

The project was funded in part by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene through a contract with Public Health Solutions. The project grew out of the recognition that HIV-related stigma has serious negative effects on people living with HIV/AIDS and prevents people from discussing HIV and getting tested. The campaign promotes the message: “Take the blame out of HIV. All people deserve compassion and respect. HIV is a medical condition, not a moral issue.”

The Theater Troupe performs skits focused on topics related to HIV to educate and foster discussion about HIV/AIDS. The program focuses on African-American, Latino, African, and African-Caribbean communities.

ATTENTION: Con Edison Reduces Voltage In BK Neighborhoods

According to yesterday's Con Edison press release, the agency will be reducing voltage by 8% to the following Brooklyn neighborhoods- Vinegar Hill, Fort Greene, Brooklyn Heights, Downtown Brooklyn, Red Hook, Carroll Gardens, Boerum Hill and Cobble Hill.

Please read here for previous information.

Job Opportunity- NY Fdtn for Senior Citizens Positions Available

New York Foundation for Senior Citizens has the following positions available at their soon-to-open, new 77-unit Housing & Urban Development (HUD)-subsidized senior citizen apartment building at 31-21 Surf Avenue and 31st Street in Coney Island, Brooklyn.

· Social Service Worker (BA/BSW degree required)

· Building Manager

· Superintendent (Bilingual English/Russian and English/Chinese preferred; position is for live-in placement)

The qualifications for the superintendent position are five years experience as superintendent of an apartment building, knowledge of gas fired boiler maintenance (ability to read gauges, check temperature, to oil dynamos and circulating pumps and to check burner’s eye), as well as sprinkler systems, air conditioning, plumbing, elevators (basic knowledge of wear and tear of ropes and brake pads) general building and apartment repairs. Applicant must possess valid Fire Department Certificate of Fitness.

All interested applicants (for all positions) are advised to send their resumes to:

Fax: 212-410-4462

Email: nancy_wan@yahoo.com

Moving Pictures: The One Where Mel Gibson Is The Beaver Puppet

On Wednesday, July 7, 2010 and Thursday, July 8, 2010, the Mel Gibson film “THE BEAVER” is scheduled to film interior scenes at Kumble Theater for the Performing Arts, Long Island University at One University Plaza at Flatbush Avenue (Fleet Street). If you see a depressed toy company owner walking around with a beaver puppet trying to communicate with Jodie Foster, that's probably Mel Gibson. Seriously.

Approximate Time: 8am– 11pm

ATTENTION: NYC and NYS Announce Public Housing Restorations

Recently, New York City and State announced a major plan to restore Section 8 vouchers for more than 6,000 families across the five boroughs.

Last December, the NYC Housing Authority (NYCHA) was forced to withdraw its offer of Section 8 vouchers for roughly 2,500 approved families as a result of a major shortfall in its Section 8 budget. Vouchers for an additional 4,000 families were also at risk of being terminated. Upon learning of this problem, the NYC Council held two hearings, entered into discussions with NYCHA and the NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD), and has now committed to providing $7 million so that these low-income New Yorkers won't end up on the street.

The full plan includes: using $23 million in HPD Section 8 reserves; transferring 750 vouchers from the NYS Division of Housing & Community Renewal (DHCR) to HPD; using federal HOME program funding to fund additional vouchers; and allocating Council capital funding to replace the shifted HOME funds. This plan will restore or save all 6,500 vouchers. Because of the steps that we're collectively taking today, thousands of New Yorkers will soon receive the vouchers they need to remain safe and sheltered.

And in another major victory for NYC tenants, last week the NYS Supreme Court's Appellate Division upheld Justice Emily Jane Goodman's decision earlier this year striking down the Rent Guidelines Board's (RGB) 2008 supplemental increase. In June 2008, the RGB approved rent increases of 4.5 and 8.5 percent for 1-and 2-year renewal increases respectively. The board also approved a $45 to $85 supplemental increase on tenants who've lived in their apartment for 6 years or more and pay less than $1,000 in rent. As a result, these tenants were forced to pay a higher increase than what's legally allowed under current RGB guidelines. The NYC Council has long denounced this supplemental increase as a "poor tax" on working and middle-class New Yorkers, and were proud to work with the Legal Aid Society and Legal Services of New York to help take this unjust burden off of tenants.

The Council joins tenants and advocates across the five boroughs in applauding the Appellate Division for recognizing that the RGB had exceeded its authority under city and state housing laws when it attempted to unfairly penalize tenants for living in their homes too long.

You can read more here and here.