Friday, January 29, 2010

Moving Pictures: Are Now Referencing Any Dance Movie We Know

On Friday, January 29th, until February 2nd, 2010, a feature film production entitled “Black Swan” will again be loading-in at 229 Flatbush Avenue between Bergen Street & Dean Street.

APPROXIMATE TIME: 10am– 10pm
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On Monday, February 8, 2010, through Friday, February 12, 2010, and Monday, February 15, 2010 through Friday February 19, 2010, they're scheduled for rigging/de-rigging at 135 Eastern Parkway between Washington Avenue & Underhill Avenue


APPROXIMATE TIME: 7am– 7pm

ATTENTION: DOE High Schools Info Fair; 2/6, 2/7; Lower Manhattan

New High Schools Information Fair

Save the date for the NYC Department of Education's New High Schools Information Fair!

8th grade students and their families are invited to meet representatives from the new small high schools opening in September 2010.

Saturday, February 6 and Sunday, February 7
10:00 a.m.– 1:00 p.m.
Emigrant Savings Bank Hall
51 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007

Directions:
Subway: 1, 2, 3 to Chambers Street; A, C to Chambers Street; J, M, Z to Chambers Street; 4, 5, 6 to Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall; R to City Hall; E to World Trade Center

Bus: M6, M22 to Chambers Street & Broadway; M103 to Park Row

ATTENTION: Kindergarten Application Update- 2010

Kindergarten Application Update for January 29, 2010

The Kindergarten application period for the 2010-11 school year begins on Monday, February 1. Starting February 1, families may go directly to their zoned school and/or other schools for which they are eligible to apply. At the schools, parents/guardians will be asked to complete application materials and show proof of residence and proof of birth for their child.

All students must apply to attend kindergarten at New York City public school in September 2010. This includes:

-Zoned students
-Students with disabilities
-Students with siblings already enrolled in a public school
-Non-zoned students
-Students currently attending a pre-Kindergarten program

Key Dates
February 1– March 12: Families must complete application (intake) materials at school(s)
March 22: Schools notify families regarding assignment offer
April 12 – April 23: Kindergarten pre-registration period

Eligibility
Children who were born January 1, 2005– December 31, 2005 who are residents of New York City are eligible to apply and attend a New York City public school Kindergarten program in the 2010-11 school year.

Admission Priorities
The priorities for admission to Zoned Schools are:
-Zoned students with verified siblings who will be enrolled in grades K-5 in the school as of September 2010
-Zoned students without siblings applying to their zoned school
-Non-zoned students with verified siblings, who will be enrolled in grades 1-5 in the school as of September 2010:
a). Within District first, and then
b). Out of District
-Non-zoned students without siblings:
a). Within District first, and then
b). Out of District

The priorities for admission to Non-Zoned Schools are:
-Eligible students with verified siblings who will be enrolled in grades K-5 in the school as of September 2010
-Other eligible students without siblings

The NYC Department of Education looks forward to helping you throughout the admissions process! For more information, visit the Elementary Admissions Page on the DOE Website.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Moving Pictures: Examine The History of Atlantic City

On Monday, February 8, and Tuesday, February 9, 2010, the television show “Boardwalk Empire” returns to rig for scenes being shot at 285 Willoughby Avenue between Taafe Place and Kent Avenue on Friday, February 12. They will be de-rigging on Tuesday February 16.


APPROXIMATE TIME: 7am -7pm

ATTENTION: Upcoming Community Events

Representative Yvette D. Clarke will host a Special Congressional Briefing on the Temporary Protection Status for Nationals of Haiti. Come and have your questions answered by representatives from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security- Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Thursday, January, 28, 2010
6pm- 8:30pm
SUNY- Downstate Alumni Auditorium
395 Lenox Road (btwn. New York Avenue & East 34th Street)
Brooklyn, N.Y. 11203
Call (718) 287-1142 for more info.


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"Promoting Good Health in a Challenging Economy"
The Woodhull Medical Center

The Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Center's Community Advisory Board cordially invites you to attend a legislative breakfast-

Friday, February 5, 2010
10am - 12noon
Woodhull Medical Center- Auditorium
760 Broadway, 3rd level
Brooklyn, N.Y. 11206

_________________________________________

Meet the Lenders: Inaugural Lender and Business Matchmaking Event

Small Business Owners may meet with loan officers from SBA-participating lenders and learn about loan sources on then City, State, and Federal level. Experts from 8(a) Division and SBA resource partners- SBDCs, SCORE, WBCs, and Chamber of Commerce- will attend.

Monday, February 8, 2010
10AM-2PM
76 Federal Plaza
(6th Floor Conference Room)
New York, NY 10278

Information/Register- Contact Man-Li Lin at man-li lin@sba.gov
_________________________________________

And tonight, President Obama presents a State of the Union [Brooklyn for Barack will host a viewing party- complete with stimulating discussion- at Moe's Bar & Lounge at 70 Lafayette Avenue], and Assembly Member Hakeem Jeffries gives his State of the District.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

FUREE Seeks Lead Organizer

FUREE (Families United for Racial and Economic Equality) is looking for an experienced organizer to lead FUREE’s organizing campaigns. They seek a dedicated, passionate, experienced person who is looking to learn and grow as an organizer and leader, and who is looking for the opportunity to work in a growing organization of local and national prominence doing cutting edge racial and economic justice organizing.

FUREE's campaigns include:
-organizing against gentrification and for community-led accountable development
-building the power of young people of color to organize for change in their communities
-and a voter engagement project in low-income and working class communities of color.

FUREE is a multi-racial, women-led membership organization in Brooklyn, New York, organizing to build a strong base to ensure that all peoples’ work is valued and everyone has the right and economic means to decide and live out their own destinies.

Responsibilities include:
1). Membership Recruitment and Leadership Development: FUREE believes that members should lead the organization, and should be given training and support in order to do the best possible work. The Lead Organizer will work with staff and members to implement systems for membership recruitment and retention, identify potential and emerging leaders from membership, and create leadership development programs and plans for current and potential leaders. They will also be responsible for recruiting members and developing leaders.

2). Campaign Strategy, Research and Development: Work with staff organizers and campaign organizing committees to plan short and long term campaign goals. Develop and support organizers’ and member-leaders’ roles in conducting research, organizing direct actions, and coordinating media work.

3). Staff Development & Supervision: Supervise organizers on strategic campaigns and organizational activities and build their capacity and skills as organizers. Additionally, the Lead Organizer will work to build FUREE’s capacity to sustain long-term growth in members and leaders.

4). Strategic Ally Work: Strengthen current and introduce new collaborations with ally organizations and individuals to increase ability to build power for members and to build a broader racial and economic justice movement.

5). Political Education: Work with FUREE staff and leaders to build and integrate a deeper political vision into on-the-ground organizing and to educate members about the political context of FUREE’s campaigns.

6). Organizational Sustainability: Work with the Executive Director and development staff to strengthen current and introduce new individual and institutional funding partners to support FUREE’s work.

Desired Qualifications:
· 4 or more years of strong community or labor organizing experience, preferably with low-income communities, with demonstrated capacity to effectively carry out the above responsibilities
· 3 or more years of strong experience supervising and training community or labor organizers
· A well developed personal framework to social justice and a strong commitment racial and economic justice as well as to FUREE's mission
· Ability to communicate, motivate and listen
· Experience with fundraising including grant writing, reporting and grassroots fundraising
· Strong writing skills
· Ability to work evenings/weekends as necessary
· Computer literate particularly Microsoft Office and data basing applications
· Bilingual English/Spanish speaking (written and verbal skills)
· Women of color, immigrants, differently-abled, and people of color from low-income New York neighborhoods are strongly encouraged to apply

. FUREE is a positive and inclusive women-led, supportive work environment
. Competitive salary DOE & full benefits.
Great opportunities for growth, development and leadership.
To respond: Send resume, cover letter and 1 personal and 3 professional references to info@furee.org, or mail to 81 Willoughby Street #701, Brooklyn, NY 11201. Please type “Lead Organizer Search” in the subject heading. In your cover letter, specify why you are interested in this particular job with FUREE.

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION URGES PARENTS OF FOUR-YEAR-OLDS TO SIGN UP FOR FREE UNIVERSAL PRE-KINDERGARTEN

The Deadline to Apply for More Than 4,000 Remaining Vacancies is Friday, January 29, 2010.

The Department of Education today urged parents to sign-up their children for free universal pre-Kindergarten (UPK) seats before the Friday, January 29 deadline. More than 4,000 UPK seats remain open at public schools, child care centers contracted by the Administration for Children’s Services, and community-based organizations across the five boroughs. All children who turned four years old between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2009, are eligible for UPK. Programs can be half-day (two and a half hours, AM or PM) or full-day (six hours and twenty minutes).

To find programs with vacancies, parents can call 311 and ask for “UPK programs in my neighborhood,” or follow the link below to find schools that may have available pre-K seats:
Brooklyn public schools that may have seats available

Parents can also contact Community-Based Organization programs directly to find out about seat availability.

CM James Appointed Chair of NYC Council's Sanitation Committee

**For Immediate Release**

January 25, 2010

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081

Council Member Letitia James accepts new Chair appointment of Council’s Sanitation Committee; she leaves her post as Chair of Contracts Committee with satisfaction

“At the Stated Council meeting this past Thursday, January 21, the City Council voted 47-1 to appoint committee chairs to over forty committees and subcommittees. During this re-shuffling, I was named chair of the Council’s Sanitation Committee, having formerly chaired the Contracts Committee.

During my tenure as chair of the Contracts Committee, my overall goal was to strengthen the power of small businesses to do business and contract with the City. In that regard, I consider one of the most important bills to ever come before the Contracts Committee during my time at the New York City Council to be Local Law 129, (signed by Mayor Bloomberg in 2005). This law established the City’s goal to buy more goods and services from certified minority and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs). This represented more opportunities for certified MWBEs to bid on public contracts, increase their capacity, and effectively contribute to the City's economy.

Additionally, under my chairmanship, the Contracts Committee held hearings on compliance with and expansion of MWBE programs; the outsourcing of public services to the private sector, especially as it affected both service workers throughout the City of New York, as well as the City costs for potentially unnecessary private labor; the effectiveness of HRA back-to-work programs; and the City’s contracts in regards to the procurement of public educational materials. Most recently, the Contracts Committee held a hearing regarding the Office of Payroll Administration’s CityTime contracts, a payroll system that has been criticized as being overly costly and difficult to manage.

My plans are to apply the same kind of intense focus in my position as Chair of the Council’s Sanitation Committee. I look forward to developing a better understanding of the issues regarding sanitation throughout the City of New York, as well as working with the administration and sanitation experts to concentrate on new and innovation ideas regarding Citywide sanitation, and improving upon quality of life issues for constituents.

It continues to be my pleasure to serve as the 35th District Council Member in the New York City Council, for Brooklyn residents, and for every person residing in the five boroughs that my office is able to help.”

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke Hosts FREE Small Business Legal Clinic

If you are a small business owner or are thinking about starting your own business, this is a great opportunity to meet one-on-one with an attorney and learn more about the legalities of owning and operating a business in NYC.

When: Monday, February 1, 2010 5:00 - 7:00pm

Where: Office of Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke
123 Linden Boulevard, 1st Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11226

Come and have your questions answered by volunteer Lawyers of the Neighborhood Entrepreneur Law Project.

This event is open to the public and free of charge, however RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED as availability is limited. Please call (212) 382-6633 to RSVP.

For more info, please call 718-287-1152 or email latrice.walker@mail.house.gov

Monday, January 25, 2010

ATTENTION: Community Notice- Construction on AY Project Begins 2/1

COMMUNITY NOTICE

Please be advised that construction is about to begin on the Atlantic Yards Project on or about Feb. 1, 2010. There will be closures of sections of Fifth Avenue and Pacific Street, directional changes and bus route changes [removal of the Cobble Hill B63 bus stop on 5th Avenue, between Pacific Street & Atlantic Avenue. Passengers can use the existing bus stops on 5th Avenue (at Bergen Street) and on Atlantic Avenue (at 4th Avenue)].

Please click the image on the side to read the complete community notice. Feel free to print out this notice, or make additional copies. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Office of Council Member James at (212) 788-7081.
Construction delays for the project may make some temporary conditions last longer. Some examples:

-It's possible the 78th Precinct will be given twenty-four temporary surface parking spaces in two places in the second phase footprint. They will become permanent underground spaces when and if building #15 is built.

-Norman Oder reported earlier this month that DOT says the Carlton Avenue bridge is anticipated to be reopened just before the arena in 2012. The bridge closure will necessitate Carlton Avenue between Pacific and 6th Streets being turned into a 2-way and will include the temporary loss of street side parking there as well as the routing of Pacific Street traffic on to Carlton Avenue and Dean Street.
We'll post more (and more definitive) information as we receive it.

ATTENTION: Family Development Training Program Info & Scholarship for Family Development Workers

Family Development Training and Credentialing Program (FDC) is coming to Kingsborough Community College (CUNY), Learn more at an upcoming information session on--

Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010 10:00AM- 12:00PM
Gym- G-201 Kingsborough Community College
2001 Oriental Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY 11235

The FDC Program is the result of a major NYS initiative to change the way health, education, and human services are delivered to families. The scholarships that are available are for FAMILY WORKERS CURRENTLY EMPLOYED by community-based and non-profit organizations located within the Neighborhood Development Areas (NDAs). FDC-trained workers help families capitalize on their strengths to set and achieve healthy family goals.

Developed by Cornell University, FDC training is attended by employees of organizations that want to invest in their workers and help them grow professionally, have a greater impact in their work, and experience greater job satisfaction. FDC training will help workers understand and reconnect with the mission of their organization. The training has an impact on all levels of an organization; it empowers and strengthens staff, gives staff new skills with which to better serve their constituents, excites and encourages supervisors, and increases manager's confidence and pride in their family workers.

The 90-hour training includes interactive classes, the development of a portfolio and skills application assignments, and a NYS FDC-credential examination. Participants who successfully complete the program can earn a Family Development Credential, PONSI college credits, and Continuing Education Units.

Classes will be held on Fridays, beginning March 5 through June 18 from 10am-5pm.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: contact Meryl M. Jones, Director of Professional Development, NYC Department of Youth and Community Development at mjones@dycd.nyc.gov or 212-341-9568.

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION DEADLINE: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2010
See Scholarhip Info here.
TO RESERVE A SEAT AT FEB 3 INFORMATION SESSION: Call Esther Leon at 212-341-9566.

Moving Pictures: Will Use Any Excuse To Reference "Center Stage"

On Friday, January 29, 2010, the feature film “BLACK SWAN” returns to film interior scenes at 536 Sterling Place between Washington & Classon Aves.

Approximate Times: 8pm – 4am

Friday, January 22, 2010

Moving Pictures: Have Maximum Absorbency, Increased Softness

On Monday, January 25, 2010 the commercial “BOUNTY” is scheduled to shoot interior scenes at Gary’s Loft- 470 Flushing Avenue between Spencer Street & Walworth Street.

Approximate Times: 6am – 9pm

Thursday, January 21, 2010

A Message from CM James: Regarding Mayor Bloomberg's Statement During State of the City Speech

“Although I applaud Mayor Bloomberg for recognizing and highlighting the plight of young Black and Latino men throughout New York City, I feel strongly that it is simply not enough to speak of the symptoms that plague these young people without addressing some of the root causes.

Albeit, some of the causes of disparities in educational and economic progress are historical in nature, others are directly tied to governmental policies that have had an adverse impact on the stability of Black and Latino families. Seeking a long-term remedy should therefore not be done in isolation of parents, relatives, and caregivers who are dealing directly with the rising costs of living in New York City.

Accordingly, in his third term, I urge the mayor to expand his view to a broader scope that encompasses a bolder vision for change, focusing on support and sustenance for the family structure - including, but not limited to -

● initiatives that include the development of more living-wage jobs;
● healthcare reform that includes a Citywide paid sick-leave policy;
● subsidies that finance the retention and growth of manufacturing and industrial enterprises, specifically those committed to “green” and otherwise sustainable industry development;
● overall preservation of existing affordable housing, and creation of new affordable housing, for low and moderate-income families;
● academic and athletic programs that focus on human development with parental involvement, and led by culturally-sensitive mentors and teachers;
● expansion of alternatives-to-incarceration programs, and striking a general tone in the NYPD to respect the growth and human development of young Black and Latino youth;
● a capital jobs program to rebuild the infrastructure of New York City targeting structurally-unemployed communities.

If Mayor Bloomberg would adopt such an inclusive plan, this administration could truly have a long-term positive affect on the educational and economic gap that adversely affects Black and Latino boys. Such a policy would go a long way in realizing the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King by fostering a better environment for young Black and Latino men to grow and thrive throughout the City of New York.”

Sincerely,
Letitia James
Member of the City Council

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Moving Pictures: Stole Barney's Playbook

On Thursday, January 21, 2010, the television show “PLAYBOOK" returns to shoot interior scenes at 470 Flushing Avenue between Spencer Street & Walworth Street.

Approximate Times: 6am – 5:30pm

Moving Pictures: Are Principals In Cooper Nielson's Company

On Monday, January 25, 2010 thru Friday, January 29, 2010, the feature film “BLACK SWAN”- which we think is the ballerina movie starring Mila Kunis and Natalie Portman- returns to do some rigging at 135 Eastern Parkway between Underhill Avenue & Washington Avenue.

Approximate Times: 7am – 8pm

Things We May Have Neglected To Mention: Can Affect Your Cream; Gold And Platinum

As you try (continuously) to get money, we'll share what we know about where to look and where to avoid.

ET Computer Supplies and Service
ET, a Brooklyn-based supplies company, has a sales position available. The position is full-time and the seller would be responsible for meeting with companies and potential buyers; helping to establish customer base, and attending trade shows and events (networking). Those interested should have a college degree and two or more years experience in retail selling or customer relations. Please send your resume to wycoff@aol.com.

The Crown Heights Mediation Center
The Mediation Center seeks an Anti-Violence Program Outreach Worker for a new anti-gun violence program. All necessary information can be found here.

Cash4Gold
Via CityRoom- Rep. Anthony Weiner, a man who doesn't mess around when it comes to jewelry exchange, called out Cash4Gold (yes, the one from the late-night infomercials) for supposedly under-paying on the jewelry they're sold ("11 percent to 29 percent of the actual value of valuables sent to them"). According to the blog, the Congressman will place a request to the Federal Trade Commission to investigate their practices. We also encourage anyone looking to sell jewelry to seek out an established appraisal business.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

ATTENTION: DOE Holds Public Meeting on Potential School Closings at BK Tech; 1/26; 6PM

The NYC Department of Education is holding a PUBLIC MEETING OF THE PANEL FOR EDUCATIONAL POLICY at Brooklyn Technical High School. The meeting will provide information concerning proposed school closings, and will take place on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 at 6:00PM. Brooklyn Technical High School is located at-


29 Fort Greene Place
Brooklyn, NY 11217

CM James, Pop Singer Crystal Waters, Advocates Hold Midnight Vigil To Keep Homeless Family Shelter At Barclays/AY Open

**For Immediate Release**
January 19, 2010

Contacts: Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191, and Steve de Sève at (917) 330-6147

Midnight Vigil held outside of homeless family-shelter closed prematurely by Eminent Domain for the Barclays Center/Atlantic Yards Project - groups fight to keep open till Spring, and to reverse the Eminent Domain taking of the building

Elected officials and homeless advocates vow to lie in front of bulldozers to save shelter - civil disobedience may escalate to stop Eminent Domain takings

(Brooklyn, NY) - After a weekend of protests, at midnight on the MLK holiday a group of 30 angry community members, politicians, and homeless and family group members were outside the Pacific Dean Shelter until midnight last night to see if Governor Paterson would enact an emergency moratorium on Eminent Domain that would re-open the shelter. The Moratorium was requested by New York City Council Member Letitia James, who, along with State Senator Velmanette Montgomery, made the request to Governor Paterson this weekend.

Unbelievably, the shelter, which serves mostly African-American and Caribbean-American families who are without shelter, was closed, in the middle of winter, on Martin Luther King's birthday, sending shockwaves throughout the Prospect Heights and Fort Greene communities. In advance of last night's vigil, protesters held a rally at nearby Freddy's Bar, itself facing eminent domain eviction, on Sat. Jan. 16, in the middle of the MLK weekend, complete with pop singer Crystal Waters, who sang her hit Gypsy Woman (She's Homeless). They want the shelter to remain open until Spring, when the weather will be kinder to homeless couples and their children.

The much-needed shelter was instead condemned by Eminent Domain by Gov. Paterson's Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) at the request of the highly contested Barclays Center/Atlantic Yards project. The project is run by Bruce Ratner, the controversial developer who is currently embroiled in 3 indictment investigations involving alleged bribes to Yonkers City Council Members who subsequently changed their votes against a Ratner project, Ridge Hill, to votes for it. Many believe Ratner's political connections have been delaying his being charged in the ongoing Federal investigation. He is among the top 5 highest lobbying and campaign contribution spenders in New York State. Ratner plans to tear down the shelter for a parking lot for Barclays Center's construction. But community members, including one state senator say no way.

"I will put myself on the ground in front of the bulldozers. I will do anything I can to stop this," said State Senator Velmanette Montgomery at the rally to reverse the Eminent Domain closing of the shelter on Saturday.

It has been a busy Martin Luther King holiday weekend for those fighting to keep the shelter open till Spring, with the closing on Jan 15 - Dr. King's actual birthday, the rally with Crystal Waters on the 16th, calls to the Governor on the 17th, and finally the vigil as the clock counted down to midnight to see if Ratner and the Governor were going to stand by their decision to close the shelter, on this, of all Winter weekends.

The lack of response from the Governor on the Martin Luther King Birthday closing of the shelter has the protesters saying they will escalate their civil disobedience against those who refuse to let the shelter stay open till Spring.

###

Footage of the Midnight Vigil: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRzXSTd92qU

RELATED COVERAGE FROM MLK WEEKEND FIGHT TO SAVE SHELTER TILL SPRING

New York Times coverage of Crystal Waters Save Shelter from MLK Weekend Closing Rally: http://fort-greene.thelocal.nytimes.com/2010/01/18/fighting-a-homeless-shelter-closing/

Daily News: http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/brooklyn/2010/01/15/2010-01-15_singing_out_against_closing_a_shelter_for_atlantic_yards.html

Footage of the Jan 16 rally with Council member Letitia James, Senator Velmanette Montgomery, Picture the Homeless, Dean St. Block Association, F.U.R.E.E., and others at Freddy's Bar: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bfdu5A_d0GE

Gothamist: http://gothamist.com/2010/01/18/homeless_shelter_now_homeless_to_ac.php

DDDB Blog: http://dddb.net/php/latestnews_Linked.php?id=2611

Friday, January 15, 2010

ATTENTION: Upcoming Community Event, Important Information

Emmanuel Baptist Church will host a college readiness financial aid workshop on Saturday, January 16, 2010 at 36 St. James Place, from 12noon-2pm in Room 201. The workshop is geared towards parents of and students that are high school junior and seniors preparing for college.

RSVP is appreciated corbettfc@yahoo.com.
_________________________________________
Join Congressman Major Owens (retired) and the Central Brooklyn Martin Luther King Commission as they present their 25th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Essay, Poetry & Art Awards Ceremony:

Monday, January 18, 2010, 1pm (Doors open at 12:30pm)

Prospect Heights High School Campus

883 Classon Avenue

Brooklyn, NY. 11225
_________________________________________
Collecting for Haiti

Following Brooklyn Tech's collection for displaced Haitians, we have some more info on who's collecting.


-Council Member Darlene Mealy, of the (nearby) 41st district in Central Brooklyn, will be collecting relief items of non-perishable food, clothing, blankets and other necessities, for the victims of the devastating earthquake. Any such items can be brought to her office at 1757 Union Street (near Utica Avenue), anytime during office hours Monday thru Saturday from (9am-6pm).


-The Brooklyn-based St. Paul Community Baptist Church (SPCBC) is the Brooklyn drop-off point for Yele Haiti. Items requested are blankets, solar flash lights, power bars/protein bars, clothes, and medical supplies. Financial donations are also accepted, and checks or money orders should be made out to St. Paul Community Baptist Church with "Yele Haiti" in the memo line (click the above link to donate online).
See more information at the NYT-Local blog here.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Moving Pictures: Understands Events Beyond The Normal Realm of Expectation



On Thursday January 14, 2010, Friday January 15, 2010, and Tuesday January 19, 2010 thru Friday January 22, 2010, the feature film “BLACK SWAN” is scheduled for rigging at 135 Eastern Parkway between Underhill Avenue & Washington Avenue.

Approximate time: 7am- 8pm

FREE Anger, Money Management Training Available

Family & Community Support Services, Inc. presents FREE Anger and Money management Trainings.

- Discover ways to manage and control angry feelings
- Learn how to make better choices with your money

When: February 22, 2009 from 6pm-7:30pm
Where: 1195 St. Marks Avenue (between Utica & Rochester Avenues)

Space is limited so please call to register: (718) 771-3136

* Refreshments will be served. Financial Information provided by Banco Popular.

Stop Gun Violence!

Voices in Action Against Youth Violence; Parents United to Rally for Gun-Violence Elimination (PURGE); and Calvary Fellowship A.M.E. Church-

Invite you to unite for a Community Speak-Out to Step Up and Take a Stand to Stop Gun Violence.

When: Saturday, January 16, 2010
10am-12pm

Where: Calvary Fellowship A.M.E. Church
Reverend Joseph H. Walston, Pastor
790 Herkimer Street at Rochester Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11233

*Special Guest Speaker, Mr. Graham Weatherspoon of the Black Law Enforcement Alliance


For additional information, please contact:
- Darlene Desmond at darlenad2@aol.com
- Francetta Hairston at Francetta3@aol.com
- Reverend Dr. Yoreel Trumpet at 718-345-2860
- Reverend Jacquelyn Bullock at 718-595-2857

UPDATE: How To Assist Haitian People After Devastating Aftermath of Earthquake

Quick updates on how to assist after the Haitian earthquake.

Red Cross Family News Network

The International Committee of the Red Cross has established a family linking Web site enabling persons in Haiti and abroad to search for and register the names of relatives missing since the earthquake. To locate or register loved ones unaccounted for in Haiti, visit the Family News Network.

Crisis Counseling

The New York chapter of the Red Cross is providing crisis counseling at Brooklyn public schools, and will be on site at four Brooklyn public schools today to provide crisis counseling and support to Haitian students and school personnel affected.

A NYC-based organization, Counseling In Schools, are offering their services to schools throughout the City until the end of this week (tomorrow). After that, students may utilize the basic counseling services provided by their school’s administration.

Mayor's Fund to Advance NYC

The Mayor's Fund is accepting monetary donations for the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. You can donate online, or by phone at 212-788-7794. Or mail checks, with Haiti Earthquake Relief written in the memo, to:
Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City
One Centre Street, 23rd Floor
New York, NY 10007

According to the NYT-Local, Brooklyn Tech High School has set up a donation box in the center section of the cafeteria during lunch periods where you can donate to help disaster.

American Jewish World Service has created the Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund to send immediate emergency aid to communities affected by this disaster.
Caribbean Chabad, is presently providing support, and looking after the needs of emergency personnel entering into the nation of Haiti. If you know of relief personnel in need of kosher food and other support, please contact them. You can also donate directly.

Moving Pictures: Provide Continuing Sports Movie References

On Friday January 15, 2010 the television show “MSG High School Sports Showcase” returns to film interior scenes at Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School at 357 Clermont Avenue between Greene Avenue and Lafayette Avenue.

APPROXIMATE TIME: 12pm-11pm

CM James, Pop Star Crystal Waters Urge City to Keep Homeless Shelter At Proposed AY Site

**For Immediate Release**
January 13, 2010


Contacts: Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191, and Steve de Sève at (917) 330-6147


Pop Star Crystal Waters comes to Brooklyn this Saturday to help City Council Member Letitia James convince the City to keep a homeless family-shelter, scheduled to be closed by the City on Martin Luther King's Birthday (Jan. 15), open until Spring

The shelter is slated to be demolished for a parking lot for Barclays Bank's Barclays Center sports stadium construction vehicle parking. Crystal Waters’ hit, She's Homeless, will be performed in protest of the shelter closing and this massive development project


(Brooklyn, NY) - Crystal Waters, whose 1990s hit song “Gypsy Woman” is about a homeless woman that sings for her supper (“la da dee laa da da”), is coming to the Barclays Center/Atlantic Yards project site this Saturday to help homeless families in Brooklyn by fighting to keep a crucial family-shelter open, which is located in the footprint of the proposed Barclays Center/Atlantic Yards project.

“I don't know which is colder, Brooklyn in January through March, or what the Barclays Center/Atlantic Yards project and the City and State of New York are doing to the homeless families on January 15. Keep this shelter open till it's warm out,” said Council Member James.

The shelter has beds for 88 families, ranging from couples to families with small children. It is scheduled to be shut down by the City of New York, and condemned by eminent domain at the request of Barclays Bank's Barclays Center (a basketball arena), and its developer Bruce Ratner on January 15. Since Barclays is in England, and has no branches in New York, Crystal Waters (who resides in England) is asking Barclays Bank to have a heart and request that the City keep this shelter open, at least until the spring - so that families who become homeless in New York’s cold winter will have access to an indoor place to sleep. During these hard economic times, let’s consider all homeless individuals, especially the many families and children who are struggling.

The City claims that families currently residing at the Pacific Avenue and Dean Street homeless shelter will be relocated. Even if the claim is to be believed, this is not the point. New York’s shelter system will still lose beds and facilities for homeless children and their parents who will need shelter from the cold, specifically during the harsh New York winter. The Barclays Center, (whose owners have decided a parking lot for its construction vehicles is more important than Brooklyn’s homeless families) is slated to be used as an arena for the New Jersey Nets, (some think the Nets is the worst team in the NBA; the team was purchased in 2009 by Russian billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov). And, even the City’s Independent Budget Office has found that this publicly subsidized arena would be a net financial loser for New York City if built.

“Owners of the Barclays Center/Atlantic Yards project are forcing the City to close this critical family-shelter, and allowing the state to take it by eminent domain in the dead of winter, and on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday weekend. This is absolutely wrong and unnecessary. The community believes that nothing at all will be built in place of this homeless shelter - possibly for years and decades…if ever. Taking away beds for our City’s most vulnerable residents is simply unconscionable,” said Council Member James.

Ms. Waters will perform her song, Gypsy Woman (She's Homeless), with local homeless people to raise awareness of what owners of the Barclays Center are doing, and to encourage Barclays Bank to ask the City and State to keep the shelter open until Spring, when the weather warms up. The press conference and performance will be at Freddy's Bar, which is itself fighting eviction because of the Barclays Center/Atlantic Yards project.


What: Pop Star Crystal Waters in Brooklyn to support City Council Member Letitia James and homeless families. Her hit, She's Homeless, will be performed 2pm.

Who: Singer Crystal Waters, Council Member Letitia James, public officials, residents, and homeless advocates

Where: Freddy's Bar, 485 Dean Street in Prospect Heights - Corner of 6th Avenue - (718) 622-7035 - (2or 3 to Bergen St. Station)

When: Saturday, January 16, at 2pm


Crystal Waters Gypsy Woman (she's homeless)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KztNIg4cvE

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

ATTENTION: How To Assist Haitian People After Devastating Aftermath of Earthquake

By now, many are aware of the 7.0 earthquake that struck the nation of Haiti (Ayiti) yesterday. The earthquake brought with it enormous destruction to the already impoverished island, and the magnitude of the problem has been overwhelming to the Haitian government and relief agencies functioning in Haiti.


It is now time to show our support to the Haitian people, and to the community of Haitian-Americans that have settled in Central Brooklyn. I encourage you to donate to any of the organizations listed below. Included in this list are offices that you may contact to find out other ways you can support.


Letitia James

HAITI DISASTER RELIEF EFFORTS

A VIGIL will be held at the Haitian Consulate today at 6:00 pm at 271 Madison Ave (between 39th & 40th St).

NYC Area - New York City residents may contact "311" for further information on Haiti Relief Efforts.

Secretary of State Clinton has set up an aid line that people can use to send money to support Haiti relief similar to what was set up to support refugees in Pakistan earlier this year. Cell phone users can text "haiti" to 90999 and $10 will go to relief efforts in Haiti. The $10 will show up on your phone bill.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

· The U.S. State Department has set up a toll-free number to call for information about family members in Haiti: 1-888-407-4747.


IReport

Individuals who are seeking information about family members or friends in Haiti may contact and/or post pictures of their family or friends at: www.Ireport.com

YELE HAITI EARTHQUAKE FUND

· Yele Haiti Foundation was established by Haitian-American performer Wyclef Jean. The website has not been set-up to accept online donations at http://www.yele.org/. Alternatively, you may text YELE to 501501 to donate $5 via your cell phone.

AMERICAN RED CROSS

· The American Red Cross can be contacted at 1-800-257-7575 or http://www.redcross.org/. Alternatively, you may text "HAITI" to "90999" to make a $10 donation.

Other organizations working to bring relief to Haiti are:

AMERICARES

· http://www.americares.org/

MERCY CORPS

·
http://www.mercycorps.org/


UNICEF

http://fieldnotes.unicefusa.org/2010/01/update_haiti_quake.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+unicefusa%2Ffieldnotes+%28UNICEF+USA+Fieldnotes%29

Please see this list from CNN for more options, and this list from the NYT-Lede blog.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

ATTENTION: FREE LGBT(Q) Panels, Workshops

The Brooklyn Community Pride Center, Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, and National AIDS Education & Services for Minorities to Co-Sponsor Panel Discussion on LGBT Youth in Out-of-Home Care

WED, JANUARY 20, 2010

The Brooklyn Community Pride Center (BCPC)- in collaboration with the Brooklyn District Attorney's Charles Hynes' Office, and the National AIDS Education & Services for Minorities- proudly presents the following event as the third installment in BCPC's community education panel discussions.

Did you know that LGBT youth are disproportionately exposed to violence in the home, which can lead to eventual homelessness? 11.5% of gay and lesbian youth report being physically attacked by family members, and 44% of LGBT youth report having been the target of anti-gay physical abuse, discrimination and/or harassment in their family of origin.

Once in out-of-home care these youth are at higher risk for victimization, mental health problems, and engaging in unsafe sexual behavior than their straight counterparts. Aging out of the foster care system can be very difficult for LGBT youth, and many experience periods of homelessness or may resort to survival crimes, such as prostitution. Any involvement with the criminal justice system resulting in incarceration can lead to further abuse within the system.

This panel will be geared toward parents, social services providers, legal and law enforcement professionals, and will address the specific issues related to working with LGBT youth in out-of-home care. This is both an important and timely issue, and we look forward to the opportunity to engage Brooklyn’s LGBT community in a productive discussion.


Event Details: LGBT Youth in Out-of-Home Care.
Wednesday, January 20th at 7pm
Brooklyn Borough Hall
209 Joralemon Street & Court Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201
2nd floor courtroom
___________________________________________

Brooklyn's Own Transgender Name Change Clinic

THU, JANUARY 21, 2010 at 7pm

BCPC, in conjunction with LeGal (Lesbian and Gay Law Association of Greater New York) and the West Village Trans Name Change Clinic (awesome clinic at The Center), has begun a pro se transgender name change clinic, which started in November 2009 and will operate on the 3rd Thursday of every month.

The clinic will assist transgender individuals with filling out the paper work to file for a legal name change. This clinic is only for residents of NYC. The clinic itself is free, but individuals are responsible for filing and publication fees. Please contact le_gal@earthlink.net with any questions.

___________________________________________

Anti-Violence Project Offering LGBTQ DV Legal Clinic

The Anti-Violence Project (AVP) is now offering a free LGBTQ DV Legal Clinic for clients! Click links below for more information.


ATTENTION: Upcoming Community Events

Join Brooklyn's Community Board #8 in a blood drive.

Thursday, January 14, 2010
3:30pm- 8pm

Berean Baptist Church (link is wonky)
Basement, Fellowship Hall
1635 Bergen Street
Brooklyn, NY 11213

Participants are asked to bring ID with photo or signature; you may contact District Manager Michelle George for eligibility requirements at 718-467-5620.
_____________________________________________

Discover New Business Opportunities in Bedford-Stuyvesant.

You're invited to the Bed-Stuy Gateway Streetscape Project Information Session. Learn how your business can be part of this multi-year, multi-phase construction project. You can also learn how to become MWBE-certified.

Thursday, January 14, 2010
5pm - 7pm
Restoration Plaza
1368 Fulton Street
Brooklyn, NY 11216

Please RSVP or for further information contact opportunitymwd@nycedc.com or 212-312-3712.

_____________________________________________

New York City suspends alternate side parking (street cleaning) regulations, for both street cleaning purposes and traffic flow, on the 34 legal and religious holidays. Click here for more information.

Brooklyn Music School Invites You To Join Them for MLK Event

The Brooklyn Music School's Music & Vocal Department invites you to join them in honoring the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with music and songs performed by staff, students, and the Youth Rock Ensembles.


Date: Saturday, January 16, 2010
Time: 5:00pm Place: Brooklyn Music School and Playhouse
There is a $10.00 admissions fee.

Dr. King's voice for justice, peace, and civil rights will be remembered through this one time special presentation by the Music & Vocal Department's staff and students.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Moving Pictures: Out To Play

On Wednesday, January 13, 2010 the television show “PLAYBOOK” is scheduled to film interior scenes at 470 Flushing Avenue between Spencer Street & Walworth Street.

APPROXIMATE TIME: 6am – 5:30pm

ATTENTION: Crown Heights Mediation Center Hosts Leadership, Entrepreneurship Programs

The Crown Heights Mediation Center is hosting free programming for community members, youth, parents and professionals.
Leadership Training Institute:
-Learn networking, fundraising, community organizing, event planning, working with the media and coalition building.
-Build relationships with a team of committed, caring, and concerned individuals who want to make Crown Heights a better place.
-Plan a community project.
-Meets twice a month at Crown Heights Mediation Center, 4:00-7:00pm.
-Excellent for teachers and staff, PTA members, and community members.
-Deadline: January 20th
Youth Entrepreneurship Program
-Free program for young women ages 17-21.
-Learn photography, graphic design, and entrepreneurial skills while forming friendships with other young women from the different races, religions, and cultures in Crown Heights.
-Create and implement a business plan. Make money and receive a cash award upon completion of the program.
-Deadline: January 18th
[The CH Mediation Center is also offering a great professional development program for a small fee.]
Train-the-Trainer Conflict Resolution
-March 19, 2010
-Learn to train young people to respond to conflict in a thoughtful, non-violent way.
-Skills taught include active listening, interpersonal development, bias awareness, decision-making, problem solving, and presentation skills.
-Excellent for teachers, guidance counselors, and other staff members.
-Call the Mediation Center at 718-773-6886 for more information including cost per person.
You can learn more about the Crown Heights Mediation Center through the website and blog: http://www.crownheightsmediationcenter.blogspot.com/. The applications for these programs are available in electronic copy on their blog, and in hard copy at their office. There are a few applications available for pick-up at the district office of CM James.

Friday, January 8, 2010

Things We May Have Neglected To Mention: Our Odd Sense of Online Abandonment

Filming in Brooklyn Turns Selfish

Our favorite filming blog Filming in Brooklyn is no more. We wish our good friend Amy luck on her new blog-baby, SelfishMom.com, and all her future endeavors.

Goodbye, Newman

The Local, Fort Greene-Clinton Hill's New York Times blog is saying goodbye to Andy Newman, a great voice of our time. You'll soon be able to catch him the NYT Metro's City Room, so fret not.

MULCHFEST 2010

Join the Society for Clinton Hill, the Fort Greene Association and the Fort Greene Park Conservancy as they seek to assist you in discarding your unwanted Christmas tree. You may bring your tree to the intersection of Washington Park and Willoughby Avenue on January 9th and 10th from 10am - 2pm, and quickly transform the discarded pines and firs into useful mulch. More information here.

Needed: Your Unwanted Coats

We're still collecting unwanted coats for those in need during this winter season. Any spare coat/s may be dropped off at Council Member James' district office at 67 Hanson Place or at Bridge Cleaners at 204 Livingston Street. Thanks in advance.

Moving Pictures: Could Not Find Usable Quote, Though We Really Tried

On Monday, January 11, 2010 a commercial for “White Castle” is scheduled to film interior scenes at 470 Flushing Avenue between Spencer and Walworth Streets.

APPROXIMATE TIME: 6am-10pm

Thursday, January 7, 2010

A Message From CM James- MTA: Don't Leave New Yorkers Stranded!

January 7, 2010

Dear New Yorker,

Last month the MTA unveiled a package of budget cuts that is a slap in the face to hardworking people across our city.

I have stood with elected officials, transportation advocates, students, seniors, people with disabilities and other transit riders to protest this latest round of proposed service cuts, which include the elimination of Student Metro Cards and cuts to the Access-a-Ride Program.

New Yorkers from all walks of life joined us in sending a strong, clear message to the MTA: Don't Leave New Yorkers Stranded!

Working together with transit advocates, the New York City Council has proposed an alternate budget solution that will help us to avoid these drastic service cuts by:

* Reallocating 10 percent of direct stimulus aid to MTA operating expenses ($91.5 million);
* Using budgeted PAYGO capital funds for operating ($50 million); and
* Reallocating 10 percent of additional stimulus transit aid to State to operating ($30 million).

Relevant articles in the press:

* "Rally to save service: Astoria protest vs. MTA plan to kill W line"
* "Save Our Subways! NYers Protest MTA Cuts"
* "Students, Politicians Protest MTA Cuts"

We need your help. Below are actions we can all take to stem these cuts and adopt a more rational plan.

Take Action!

* Sign our petition here and support our plan!

* Attend the MTA's public hearing on this issue. By signing our petition we will be able to notify you when the hearing is scheduled.

* Contact the MTA. Urge them to find alternative ways to prevent these terrible cuts and to ensure an open public process. By phone, dial (212) 878-7483. By e-mail, click here.

* Contact Governor Paterson. Let him know how these transit service cuts will affect your life.

* Sign up to volunteer! If you would like to take part in any of the events that we will be organizing around this issue, please contact Nick Rolf at the Speaker's office at NROLF@council.nyc.gov.

With your help we can stop these drastic cuts and ensure greater public input in the MTA's budget process.

Sincerely,
Letitia James
Member of City Council

Moving Pictures: The Weight You Manage, and The Damage Too

On Friday, January 15, 2010 into Saturday January 16, 2010, the television show “DAMAGES” is scheduled to film interior scenes at 275 Park Avenue between Waverly Avenue & Washington Avenue.

APPROXIMATE TIME: 9pm – 4am

ATTENTION: U.S. Senate Youth Program

United States Senate Youth Program


Each year the William Randolph Hearst Foundation sponsors a scholarship for two student leaders from each state and the District of Columbia to visit Washington, D. C. (all expenses paid), as guest of the Hearst Foundation; and a $5,000 college scholarship for undergraduate studies at an accredited United States college/university.

During the visit to Washington, D.C., students engage in a series of seminars and briefings with U.S. Senators and members of the House of Representatives, as well as meet with officials from the executive and judicial branches of government.

Important 2010-2011 United States Senate Youth Dates
August 2, 2010- Announcement of the 2010-2011 United States Senate Youth Program
October 8, 2010- Student Application forms + essays due
November 8, 2010- Semi-Finalist Interviews
49th Annual United States Senate Youth Program that will take place in Washington, D.C. March 5-12, 2011
For more details, visit http://www.emsc.nysed.gov/ciai/socst/senateyouth.html

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

CM James Extends Invitation To Join Film Screening/Panel Discussion with Civil Rights Activist Esther Cooper Jackson

***Media Advisory***

Council Member Letitia James cordially invites you to join her for a film screening and panel discussion featuring Brooklyn resident, and longtime Civil Rights Activist- Esther Cooper Jackson

(January 6, 2010) – Esther Cooper Jackson, a prominent Civil Rights Activist who worked with the Southern Negro Youth Congress (SNYC), was also part of the nucleus surrounding W.E.B. Du Bois that founded the Freedomways Quarterly in 1961. For more than 25 years, Esther Cooper Jackson was the Managing Editor of this magazine devoted to furthering the civil rights struggle. A proud graduate of Oberlin College in 1938, she also received a master’s degree from Fisk University in 1940. She currently resides in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. This special event, Fighting for Justice: New York Voices of the Civil Rights Movement is free to the public, and will be held at the Apollo Theatre located at 253 W. 125th Street in Harlem, on January 14.
----

FIGHTING FOR JUSTICE: NEW YORK VOICES OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT

Thursday, January 14, 2010 at 6pm (Doors open at 5:15pm) – Apollo Theater
The New York City Commission on Human Rights and NYC Media in collaboration with Apollo Theater Education Program present the screening of “Fighting for Justice: New York Voices of the Civil Rights Movement” followed by a panel discussion with Clifford Alexander, Jr., Esther Cooper Jackson, Dr. Martha Biondi, Shola Lynch and Dr. Clarence Taylor. This screening is moderated by Keith Brown with an introduction by Howard Dodson of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. Special performance by the C3 Youth Choir of Brooklyn’s Christian Culture Center.

This event is free and open to the public. RSVP required by Tuesday, January 12th to events@tv.nyc.gov, or the Apollo Theatre at (212) 531-5363.

Monday, January 4, 2010

Moving Pictures: Are Like That Hilarious Basketball Scene From HSM

On Friday, January 8, 2010, the television show “HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS SHOWCASE” is scheduled to shoot interior scenes at 901 Classon Ave between Union Street & Presidents Street.

APPROXIMATE TIME: 10am – 9pm

ATTENTION: Children's Rights Seeks Director of Policy

Children’s Rights, a national organization advocating child welfare reform, seeks an experienced and passionate child welfare professional to join senior staff as director of their well-respected policy department- providing leadership, vision, and guidance for policy research and advocacy at the local, state, and national levels, as well as vital expert assistance in the context of class action lawsuits to reform public child welfare systems.

The portfolio of the Director of Policy is diverse, including traditional policy research and advocacy alongside direct involvement with systems actively engaged in reform. The position offers a unique and exciting variety of professional experiences and challenges, a high degree of public visibility- and abundant opportunities to influence the development of public policy regarding child welfare at all levels.

The Director of Policy reports to the Executive Director of Children’s Rights and supervises a staff of two senior policy analysts, as well as graduate and college-level interns. There is a long-term plan to expand the policy department within Children’s Rights.

Responsibilities
* Conceptualize, develop, design, and implement major child welfare policy analysis and advocacy projects at the national and local levels.
* Prepare reports, articles, and other written materials on major child welfare issues.
* Advocate the implementation of Children’s Rights’ policy recommendations to national, state, and local lawmakers and other public officials and serve as a public spokesperson for Children’s Rights in the media on vital issues related to our work.
* Work in partnership with Children’s Rights’ Director of Communications to develop and implement media campaigns to focus attention on key child welfare issues and projects and initiatives of Children’s Rights.
* Work in partnership with Children’s Rights’ Executive Director and legal staff to implement class action child welfare system reform campaigns.
-- Provide consultation to Children’s Rights’ legal teams in the context of class action lawsuits.
-- Work with local stakeholders in jurisdictions across the U.S. and conduct analyses of key child welfare data to assess the status of reform efforts.
-- Identify best practice approaches and engage alongside Children’s Rights’ attorneys in strategic discussions with monitors and states and localities that are the subject of litigation.
-- Provide technical assistance to states and localities engaged in system reform.

* Present Children’s Rights’ work at conferences and other professional gatherings.
* Work closely with the Executive Director and the Development Director to raise private funds to support the work of Children’s Rights.
* Staff the Program Committee of Children’s Rights’ Board of Directors.
* Supervise policy analysts and interns to carry out the work described above.

Qualifications
* At least ten years of experience in child welfare policy/practice/management/administration.
* Master’s degree in social work, public policy or related field or a law degree; a dual degree (e.g., MSW/JD) is a plus, as is familiarity with legal contexts.
* Excellent oral and written communication skills.
* Strong organizational and project management skills.
* Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with high-level child welfare and legal professionals.
* Ability to work effectively with the media.
* Experience working with boards of directors, foundations and other private funders.

Salary
Commensurate with experience. Children’s Rights offers a comprehensive benefits package.

To Apply
Please e-mail a thoughtful cover letter, writing sample and resume to HR@childrensrights.com and include Director of Policy in the subject line.

Parents Advocates Coming Together Host 12-week Training Program

JOIN PACT- NOW!


Parents Advocates Coming Together!
Learn to fight for your child’s education!
Will educate and train parents to be effective advocates for their children in the public school system.
Is looking for dedicated, enthusiastic public school parents to participate in a free 12-week parent advocacy training program!
Sign up now! It’s FREE!!
Orientation on Thursday, January 14, 2010, 6:30pm-8:30pm.
All workshops will take place at: 1534 Bedford Avenue, 2nd Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11216, 2nd Floor, Conference Room.
Refreshments will be served
To Register for PACT Call: 718-804-8893
Email: info@clsj.org

Cleaning for a Reason Provides Free Housecleaning for Women Undergoing Chemo


If you know any woman currently undergoing Chemotherapy, please pass the word to her that there is a cleaning service that provides FREE housecleaning- 1 time per month for 4 months while she is in treatment.

All she has to do is sign up and have her doctor fax a note confirming the treatment. Cleaning for a Reason will have a participating maid service in her zip code area arrange for the service.
[We'd love to hear any stories from women who's used this service, or provide cleaning services for 'Cleaning for a Reason'!]
Cleaning for a Reason: http://www.cleaningforareason.org/

ATTENTION: Atlantic Terrace Applications Due 1/6/10!


Atlantic Terrace Applications Due January 6th!


Affordable one, two and three bedroom, eco-friendly Co-op homes are available in Ft Greene, Brooklyn at Atlantic Terrace. Fifth Avenue Committee (FAC) is developing an 80-unit, mixed income, affordable cooperative in Fort Greene at South Oxford Street at the corner of Atlantic Avenue in partnership with New York City.


In marketing the co-op, preference will be given first to New York City residents and then to New York State residents. In addition, preference will be given to residents of Community Board 2 (for 50% of the units), eligible municipal employees of the City of New York (for 5% of the units), households that include persons with mobility impairment (for 5% of the units), and households that include persons with a visual/and or hearing impairment (for 2% of the units). Atlantic Terrace will target households with incomes between $35,194/year to $115,830/year (please see income guidelines below).


This contemporary 10-story building features sustainable materials, highly energy efficient heating and air conditioning, and abundant natural light as part of an overall environmentally-conscious design. Many materials used in construction were made in Brooklyn, lowering the carbon footprint of the development. See this chart for estimated sales prices, number of bedrooms, household size, and income ranges.


All applications must be postmarked no later than January, 6, 2010! See online application here. Applications may also be completed at FAC's office at:


Fifth Avenue Committee's office

621 Degraw Street

Brooklyn, 11217


...or at Pratt Area Community Council's office.


NYT-Local (who opened their post-holiday mail before us, apparently)- http://fort-greene.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/12/29/the-day-atlantic-terrace-applications-due-soon/