CM James, Community Mourn Passing of Mr. William Saunders, former State 57AD District Leader

On Monday, September 27, 2010, former State Committeeman/District Leader of the 57th A.D. William "Bill" Saunders passed away. The Office of Council Member Letitia James has learned that in accordance with the final wishes of Mr. Saunders, a funeral will not be held to celebrate his life. In the very near future, information will be available about a memorial service that will be held in his honor.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to--

Mr. James Cockerl
1215 Dean Street, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, N.Y. 11216

NYC Parks Department Recruiting Volunteers To Assist Storm Clean-Up

On Thursday, September 16, 2010, New York City was hit by a major storm that caused unprecedented damage to parts of Staten Island, Brooklyn and Queens. Many of our neighborhood parks, playgrounds, and residential areas were ravaged by falling trees and debris. The NYC Parks Department is working hard to clean these areas from the storm’s aftermath, but they need help.

The New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, in cooperation with NYC Service, is looking to recruit volunteers this weekend to help clean up following the storm. Please let us know if you are available to join us either this Saturday, October 2, or this Sunday, October 3. If you are willing to volunteer or if you have any questions, please call Larry Scott Blackmon (212) 360-3421 or emailCommunity.Outreach@parks.nyc.gov. You can also call NYC Service at (212) 788-7550, or email them at nycservice@cityhall.nyc.gov.

FREE Reading and Writing Program for Adults

The Brooklyn Public Library Central Learning Center is offering a FREE reading and writing program for adults 17 and older.

The Learning Center is open days, Monday through Sunday, and Tuesday and Thursday evenings at Grand Army Plaza, 3rd Floor, Brooklyn, New York, 11238.

For additional information please call (718) 230-2191.

CM James Applauds Comptroller Liu On CityTime Action

On Tuesday, September 21, 2010, Council Member Letitia James joined Local 375, DC 37, the Civil Service Technical Guild representing City engineers, architects, scientists, chemists, and other technical specialists in opposing the administration’s Citytime payroll project. From the onset, the Citytime project has been rife with accusations of administration and management errors that have seen “consultants” paid exuberant prices. Furthermore, the initial cost of the project ($68M) has ballooned to an estimated $700M over-budget last fiscal year. The current proposal is a 3-year contract that includes two SAIC contracts, and funding for ongoing operations. It would cost more than $100M.

Council Member James joined the guild in calling on a freeze to any further rolling-out of the project in terms of both additional funding and application to new City agencies. In addition, she called on a full assessment of the project to be performed as soon as possible, following the audit performed by Comptroller John Liu, to determine whether it would be most cost-efficient to return payroll duties to City workers.

Council Member Letitia James has been a long-term opponent of the Citytime project, from her tenure of Chair of the Contracts Committee where she held two hearings on the project, as well as one on the general outsourcing of service jobs to the private sector. She continues to introduce legislation concerning the City's outsourcing of service contracts that may be able to be performed by municipal workers.

Council Member James applauds Comptroller Liu on standing firm on his opposition to the project overall. The Comptroller recently announced his agreement with the administration to give SAIC a deadline of June 30, 2011 to complete all original work on the program. If that is completed, the program will receive up to $32M for maintenance and support services alone. There will be no further rolling-out of the project at this time, and if SAIC fails to meet this deadline, $3M in damages will be assessed against the City’s payment.

You can read more about the new agreement here.

Second Annual Heads Up! A Soulful Celebration of Our HAIRitage

Melba Tolliver, Maitefa Angaza in association with Kumble Theater present:

Second Annual Heads Up! A Soulful Celebration of Our HAIRitage – Fearlessly Natural: Getting to the Roots of the Matter Wednesday • SEPTEMBER 29 • 6PM

Kumble Theater for the Performing Arts
One University Plaza, Long Island University - Brooklyn Campus, Brooklyn, NY, 11201 - (718) 488-1624 - Venue Website

This year’s program features a provocative panel discussion, along with dance, music and multi-media presentations on the history and the multi-layered cultural, social and political dialog concerning Black people and their hair. Join journalist Melba Tolliver, Dr. Rosalind Jeffries, Tulani Jordan Kinard, Attorney Esmeralda Simmons, Supanova Slom, Dyane Harvey Salaam, Anu Prestonia, Mark Winston Griffith, April Silver, Yardley Meseroux, Johari Mayfield, Mten Halsey, Black Rose, June Terry and others - hosted by Rev. Malika Lee Whitney. Let’s talk, laugh and be fearlessly tender-headed! Tickets: Free admission –RSVP required, email: info@kumbletheater.org

ATTENTION: NYC College Bridge Program

For recent High School and GED grads who are interested in going to college but think you may need some extra help before you start, you should consider applying for the College Bridge Program!

The NYC College Bridge Program is a 13 week course designed by District 79 to help recent high school and GED graduates build skills in reading, writing, and math in order to pass the CUNY and other college entrance exams like the ACT and SAT.

• Complete applications forms can be mailed to Jennifer Charlot at 4360 Broadway, Suite 402, New York, New York 10033 or emailed to jcharlot@schools.nyc.gov
• The deadline to submit applications is October 1st, 2010. You will be notified of your acceptance in late October.

Space is limited, so please apply immediately!

High School Admissions

Middle school students and their families are invited to attend the NYC Department of Education's annual Citywide High School Fair! The fair is a great opportunity for you survey the city's public high schools, speak with their representatives and learn about their programs.

Citywide High School Fair
October 2 & 3, 2010
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Brooklyn Technical High School
29 Fort Greene Place
Brooklyn, NY 11217

Brooklyn Borough High School Fair
October 16 & 17, 2010
11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Edward R. Murrow High School
1600 Avenue L
Brooklyn, NY 11230

Media Coverage of the War in Afghanistan– featuring a pre-panel screening of the documentary RESTREPO

Center for Communications, Kumble Theater and the Journalism Department– LIU, Brooklyn Campus present:

Media Coverage of the War in Afghanistan– featuring a pre-panel screening of the documentary RESTREPO

Thursday • SEPTEMBER 30 • 5:30PM to 8:30PM
LIU Brooklyn Campus
Kumble Theatre for the Performing Arts
Flatbush Avenue (Dekalb and Willoughby)

The post-screening panel discussion includes- Mark Mazzetti¸ correspondent, The New York Times; Noah Shachtman, contributing editor, Wired; Sebastian Junger, author, War: A Perfect Storm; co-director, Restrepo; and moderator Deborah Amos, Middle East correspondent, NPR.

Tickets: Free admission – RSVP: http://www.cencom.org/, info@cencom.org, and 212.686.5005

ATTENTION: North Flatbush Avenue BID Banner Contest

The North Flatbush Avenue Business Improvement District (BID) invites the submission of graphic designs for decorative banners that hang from street lamp posts in the BID district. There are thirty vinyl banners that advertise the district. All submissions should include four designs that represent the uniqueness of the area and identifies the BID as a shopping destination.

The projected date of completion for this project is Friday, December 10, 2010. The selected designer will receive a check in the amount of $500 dollars when work is fully completed, as well as the opportunity to have their work displayed throughout the district.

For complete details and the RFP submittal package, please send a request to info@nfbid.com.

Job Opportunity- FAB Business Alliance BID Project Manager

Part-time Project Manager

The Fulton Area Business (FAB) Alliance Business Improvement District (BID) in the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Clinton Hill and Fort Greene is seeking candidates for the part-time position of "Project Manager" to help create and execute events, initiatives and other programs related to marketing, sanitation, public safety and quality-of-life issues, street scape enhancements and merchant and property-owner outreach. The Project Manager works with the BID Manager, FAB Board of Directors, City agencies, civic organizations and cultural and arts institutions.

Applicants are to apply through the jobscore here. The job is part-time at 25 hours per week and may appeal to those interested in some flexibility in their work schedule.

PRAYER VIGIL for Cyclist; 9/25; 8PM

PRAYER VIGIL FOR Bicyclist JASMINE HERRON

On September 11, 2010, Jasmine Herron was riding her bicycle on Atlantic between Clinton and Washington Avenues; a motorist opened the car door and knocked Jasmine Herron, 23, into the path of on coming traffic. Unfortunately, the B45 bus hit Jasmine, and she did not survive the accident.

Jasmine was an only child from Denver, Colorado and is survived by her mother. We are asking all bikers to ride their bikes in tribute of Jasmine Herron.

DATE: Saturday, SEPTEMBER 25, 2010
TIME: 8:00 PM
WHERE: ATLANTIC AVENUE & WASHINGTON AVENUE, BROOKLYN, NY

“Again, we have witnessed another fallen rider on the streets of Brooklyn, and sadly here in the 35th Council District. I urge all travelers- drivers, cyclists and pedestrians- to remain careful, and please remember to be cautious and aware of others when traveling,” said Council Member Letitia James.

If you have any questions please call (917) 689-0747.
Sponsored by 77th Precinct Community Council, Community Board 8, Council Member Letitia James, 77th Precinct Community Clergy

ATTENTION: Regarding Property Damage Related To 9/16 Storm

If you've experienced property damage due to the tornado, you may be able to be reimbursed for the money you spent repairing your property.

There is an available claims application: http://www.comptroller.nyc.gov/bureaus/bla/property-damage-loss.pdf

It needs to be filed and sent to Comptroller Liu’s office within 90 days of September 16, 2010. It can be sent to—

Comptroller John Liu
Municipal Building
One Centre Street, Room 1225
New York, NY 10007
Tel. (212) 669-3500
Fax. (212) 669-2707

ATTENTION: Society for Clinton Hill's Halloween Walk!

The Society for Clinton Hill will soon hold its 17th Annual "Halloween Walk!"

In order to take part in this event, be sure to arrive at the Pratt-Clinton Hill Community Garden (which can be found on the corner of DeKalb Avenue and Hall Street) at 5:00PM on Sunday, October 31st 2010.

Please me aware that all costumed trick-or-treaters up to age 12 are invited! The parade route will wind through the neighborhood, whereby maps of the most generous homes will be provided.

Parents are asked to accompany their child!

Crown Heights Community Group Organize To Address Gun Violence; 9/23; 6PM; Crown Heights

In reaction to two shootings that have took place in Crown Heights on Sunday, September 19th, and Monday, September 20th, S.O.S., a grassroots community organization will be holding a community rally on Thursday, September 23rd at 6PM at Hebron Seventh Day Adventist Church on the corner of Dean and New York Avenues.

For more information, contact ljones@crownheights.org.

ActNow Fdtn Presents "The Colored Museum"; 10/7-9; S. Oxford Space; Fort Greene

ActNow Foundation presents a revival of George C. Wolfe’s classic play The Colored Museum.

The Colored Museum is a series of monologues and scenes, that present a multiplicity of African-American experiences, stereotypes and conflicts. Most have an element of direct address, involving the audience in the action and the characters on stage.

For more information, please call: 347-274-0563, or email: info@actnowproduction.org. The play will take place at South Oxford Space at
138 South Oxford Street in Fort Greene.

The calendar of events can be seen here: http://www.actnowproduction.org/current_events_archives.html

ATTENTION: Alternate Side Suspended 9/23-24

Alternate side parking (street cleaning) regulations will be suspended Thursday and Friday, September 23-24 for Sukkot. All other regulations, including parking meters, remain in effect.

The 2010 alternate side parking rules suspension calendar is available on the Department of Transportation website, along with other alternate side parking information.

Social Media Workshop And Willifest Info

Join the Cutting Edge in Downtown Brooklyn...

Learn About Social Media and How to Market your Message

WHEN: Wednesday,
September 22nd
7:00 pm

WHERE: Kumble Theater, Long Island University- Brooklyn Campus
One University Plaza
Brooklyn, NY

This is a free interactive workshop designed for filmmakers and other various artists seeking to learn effective marketing strategies using current social media for every product or service.

WILLiFEST was established to provide a platform for the creative visions of today's emerging artists in the areas of film and music, and to celebrate the vibrant cultural scene of the Williamsburg and North Brooklyn neighborhoods. In addition to live musical performances throughout the area, WILLiFEST will feature The Williamsburg International Film Festival.

ATTENTION: Community Notice Regarding Storm

September 17, 2010

Community Notice Regarding Recent Storm
An update regarding last night's severe weather storm, and the specific issue of fallen trees, structural damage, and power outages throughout a number of Brooklyn neighborhoods--

Con Edison, DSNY, FDNY, MTA, NYPD, OEM, and the Parks Department are working to restore power outages and remove downed trees and debris throughout the city. To assist with coordination, OEM deployed Citywide Incident Coordinators (CICs) to certain locations in Brooklyn.

Affected residents should call 311 to report any damage to their homes or businesses sustained from last night's storm. In order to qualify for disaster relief assistance, New York City must estimate the storm's total effect on city residents and employees. Residents should be prepared to answer questions about the extent of their property damage. Residents, if possible, should take photographs any damage prior to debris removal or repair. OEM will continue to monitor the damage from last night’s storm; the agency has opened the City’s Emergency Operations Center. OEM responders are located in the hardest hit areas and there is a command post set up to coordinate field activities. OEM is also working with the National Weather Service and the State Emergency Management Office to assess the damage. The Weather Service will survey the damage to confirm whether a tornado occurred.

Council Member James would like to stress the importance or reporting the building damage and downed trees. This information will be collected and used to determine eligibility for FEMA disaster declarations.

Lastly, Council Member James asks that residents continue to take the following steps wherever necessary:

-Report health and safety emergencies to 911.
-Report structural and tree damage to 311 (including trees blocking streets and roadways).
-Report power outages to Con Edison at 1-800-75-ConEd.
-If you have been displaced due to the storm, contact the American Red Cross in Greater New York at (877) 733-2767.

Additionally, Alternate Side Parking regulations are suspended Citywide on Friday, September 17. And, as always, constituents may reach out to the Office of Council Member Letitia James at (718) 260-9191 to assist them in any matter related to the storm.

[Photograph by Benjamin Pasteur]

BJ Wholesale Club Hosts Job Fair; 9/16-17; Downtown BK Marriott

BJ's Wholesale Club is hosting a employment fair in Downtown Brooklyn at the NY Marriott near the Brooklyn Bridge. They company is currently hiring in a number of positions and has management positions, as well as both part-time and full-time positions, available.

WHEN: September 16th, 9AM- 7PM

September 17th, 8:30AM- 3PM

WHERE: NY Marriott, Downtown Brooklyn

333 Adams Street

Brooklyn, NY 11201

If you are unable to attend, there's a temporary hiring office at 1549 Ralph Avenue; if you have any questions, please call (718) 629-0293. Additionally, you may email questions or your resume to canarsiejobs@bjs.com.

ATTENTION: NYers- Residents Over 50- Take Precaution Against West Nile Virus

The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene strongly suggests all New Yorkers- especially those aged 50 and older– take extra precautions against the West Nile Virus.

Mosquito-born infection is at unusually high levels throughout the five boroughs; this year, DOHMH has recorded more human cases at this point in the season than it has in any other year since 2000. More cases are expected through October.

New Yorkers can take simple steps to minimize contact with mosquitoes and prevent infection with West Nile Virus:

* Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under three), or products that contain the active ingredient IR3535.

* Make sure windows have screens, and repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.

* Eliminate any standing water from your property, and dispose of containers that can collect water. Standing water is a violation of the New York City Health Code.

* Make sure roof gutters are clean and draining properly.

* Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty and covered if not in use; drain water that collects in pool covers.

* Report standing water by calling 311 or visiting http://www.nyc.gov/health/wnv.

To date, 211 New Yorkers have been diagnosed with West Nile viral disease since it was first found in the United States in 1999, including 3 in 2009 and 15 in 2008.

The Health Department uses an “integrated pest management” approach to monitor the city for West Nile Virus and control its spread by mosquitoes. The agency inspects and treats standing water sites with non-chemical larvicides to kill larval mosquitoes before they emerge as flying adults. When necessary, the agency also applies small amounts of chemical pesticides (adulticides) to kill adult mosquitoes. A schedule of mosquito control activities is available online at nyc.gov/health or by phone from the 311 call center.

Update: TLC Group Ride Vehicle Program

The TLC Group Ride Vehicle Program that is being put into place to service eliminated bus routes will begin September 27th for the B71 bus line, the only former-line that affects the 35th District included in the program.

Please give our office a call at (212) 788-7081 if you have any further questions, or want more information on the service.

ATTENTION: PLANYC Presentation; Bed-Stuy; 10/7; 6PM

You are invited to a Brooklyn Community Conversation on PlaNYC [2030], Mayor Bloomberg's Sustainability Agenda!

WHEN: Thursday, October 7th, 2010
6PM- 8PM
WHERE: Billie Holiday Theatre at Bed-Stuy Restoration Plaza
1368 Fulton Street

To RSVP, please call (212) 788-9770.

Memorial Service for Frank Romeo Saturday in Fort Greene

Please join Council Member Letitia James at a memorial service taking place for Frank Romeo tomorrow in Fort Greene. Read more about the event below.
------------

From NYT- The Local, "Community members have organized a memorial service for Mr. Romeo tomorrow, September 11, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church, located at 85 South Oxford Street. Mr. Romeo’s family has asked that in lieu of flowers, well-wishers donate money in his name to the Pratt Area Community Council."

BK Bridge Park Music Performance from FELA!; 10/4; 6:30PM

St. Ann’s Warehouse invites residents to attend a performance of music from FELA!, starring Sahr Ngaujah and the Band from FELA! On Broadway.

WHEN: Monday, October 4th at 6:30pm
WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park
ADMISSION: FREE

Please Note: Lawn capacity is limited so first come, first serve.

ATTENTION: TLC Proposes Group Ride Vehicle Program To Run Cut Service Lines

NYC's Taxi & Limousine Commission’s Group Ride Vehicle Program is a new type of service providing point-to-point, shared ride service among specified pick-up and drop-off locations (marked by a sign). Drop-offs occur at fixed stops, or pre-agreed locations. The program is focused on MTA service areas that have been eliminated.

The cost varies, but will be no more than $2.

The proposed service areas span the former routes of three Brooklyn bus lines, one which runs through the 35th district.

If you are interesting in learning more about this upcoming pilot program, or are a driver looking to work in the pilot, please call our office at (212) 788-7081 for more information.

REMINDER: CM James Joins Elected Officials In Sponsoring "Comedy In The Community"; 9/9; BK College

Please join Council Member Letitia James and other elected officials at "Comedy for the Community".

Featuring: 98.7 Kiss FM talent, Nikki Carr, Brooklyn Mike, Hadiyah, and hosted by Ray Dejon!

Where: The Walt Whitman Theatre, Brooklyn College
2900 Bedford Avenue at Hillel Place
Brooklyn, NY 11210

When: Thursday, September 9, 2010
7PM- 9PM

Please contact the Office of Council Member Letitia James at (718) 260-9191 if you have any further questions.

Fulton Flea Fall Market Opens

The Fulton Flea Market is continuing their partnership with the Brooklyn Plaza Medical Center starting on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12.

The flea market will continue every SUNDAY through October. Contact (917) 364-5648 for more information.

FYI for interested sellers:
$30 for a 5x10 space and $50 for a 10x10 space
$10 if you need to order a table (please do by WEDNESDAY at NOON).

ATTENTION: Hurricane Earl

Hurricane Earl, which carries steady winds of 135mph and quickly jumped from a Category 1 to a Category 4 hurricane, is set to touch ground in the NYC area on Friday. You have been warned. Although the New York Times blog Cityroom states that the storm won't get "any closer to New York City than 200 miles east-southeast of Far Rockaway". So that's good. Still, they note some DOB tips for staying safe.

You can track the progress of the hurricane here: http://www.weather.com/newscenter/hurricanecentral/2010/earl.html

ATTENTION: Health and Wellness Fair; FG; 10/2; 12Noon

Queen of All Saints Church is hosting a Health and Wellness Fair! You and invited to attend and speak with health professionals and receive health screenings.

WHEN: Saturday, October 2, 2010
12Noon- 4PM
WHERE: 300 Vanderbilt Avenue
Queen of All Saints Church

For more information, please contact the church at (718) 638-7625.

State Officials Take A Stand Against Bed Bugs

Speaking of the creepy crawlies, Governor Paterson recently signed into law the Bedbug Disclosure Act, which will require owners to disclose a one-year history of bedbug infestations to any potential tenants.

Additionally, a newly-passed NYS law requires health officials to alert parents if bedbugs are found anywhere on school premises.