tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2338838957422881982024-03-04T23:38:14.278-05:00team tishCouncil Member Letitia James' Official staff blogAja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.comBlogger1188125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-12118804506486749072013-11-20T13:30:00.002-05:002013-11-20T13:30:58.534-05:00ATTENTION: Senior Holiday Dance Party; 11/22; BK Masonic Temple<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eDLB8sM-zSo/Uoz_N3RQWlI/AAAAAAAACW8/_3S0qOISbNU/s1600/Holiday+Party.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eDLB8sM-zSo/Uoz_N3RQWlI/AAAAAAAACW8/_3S0qOISbNU/s640/Holiday+Party.png" width="363" /></a></td></tr>
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<br />Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-48915119465190770192013-11-04T11:18:00.002-05:002013-11-04T11:18:55.247-05:00ATTENTION: 9-Year-Old Boy Killed In Fort Greene Vehicular Incident**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**<br />
November 2, 2013<br />
<br />
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
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<br />
<b><i>9-Year-Old Boy Killed In Fort Greene Vehicular Incident</i></b><br />
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(Brooklyn, NY)-- Around 12:45PM on Saturday, November 2, 2013, a man driving a red SUV Ford Expedition west along Fort Greene's DeKalb Avenue, moved to turn left onto Clermont Avenue and collided with another vehicle.<br />
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According to reports, the driver of the SUV then lost control of his brakes, mounted the sidewalk, and crashed into a nearby building.<br />
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The tragic accident caused pedestrian injuries, and killed a 9-year-old boy.
Witnesses state that the 9-year-old boy, his sibling (a 5-year-old boy), their 47-year-old mother, and another 28-year-old woman were among those injured. The 9-year-old boy was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident, while the other victims suffered non-life-threatening injuries.<br />
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"My heart goes out to the victims and loved ones affected by the tragic vehicular incident that took place in Fort Greene today," said <b>Council Member Letitia James</b>. "I will be working with the Department of Transportation to review the details of the incident, and specifically determine what measures can be taken to increase driver and pedestrian safety along De Kalb Avenue."<br />
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Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-84797767745773778532013-10-24T12:24:00.001-04:002013-10-24T12:24:30.751-04:00ATTENTION: The Future of Stop & Frisk Discussion; 11/12; FG<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bPlPn1-7hZQ/UmlJHkhBU7I/AAAAAAAACQk/Ipu9yVYGjFU/s1600/Stop+and+Frisk+Forum.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bPlPn1-7hZQ/UmlJHkhBU7I/AAAAAAAACQk/Ipu9yVYGjFU/s320/Stop+and+Frisk+Forum.png" width="247" /></a></div>
<b><u>WHEN</u></b>: Tuesday, November 12, 2013<br />
7:00PM<br />
<br />
<b><u>WHERE</u></b>: Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church<br />
85 South Oxford Street<br />
(between Lafayette Avenue and Fulton Street)<br />
<br />
<b><u>WHAT</u></b>: Panel discussion and Q & A regarding the future of Stop & FriskAja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-4814655867630572362013-10-15T16:33:00.001-04:002013-10-15T16:34:44.401-04:00ATTENTION: Finish Your GED <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vNzxEnlgikY/Ul2iNldL8zI/AAAAAAAACOg/AJ6jjW5x08Y/s1600/GED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vNzxEnlgikY/Ul2iNldL8zI/AAAAAAAACOg/AJ6jjW5x08Y/s200/GED.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
If you or someone you know took the GED and passed some but not all parts of the test, time is limited. The old scores will expire and testers will have to take a completely different test as of January 2014.<br />
<br />
The “Finish Your GED in 2013” campaign can help testers with sections of the tests they didn’t pass.
For more info go to <a href="http://www.gedcompass.org/index.html">http://www.gedcompass.org/index.html</a> or call (718) 557-2525.
Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-86512033813349145072013-10-15T16:09:00.001-04:002013-10-15T16:09:27.709-04:00CM James Announces 2014 Clinton Hill Slow Zone **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**<br />
OCTOBER 15, 2013<br />
<br />
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081<br />
<br />
<b>Council Member Letitia James Announces 2014 Clinton Hill Slow Zone</b><br />
<i>Crown Heights and Prospect Heights To Receive Slow Zones By 2016</i><br />
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(Brooklyn, NY)— On Friday, October 11, 2013, the <b>NYC Department of Transportation’s Neighborhood Slow Zones Initiative</b> announced five new <i>slow zones</i> for the City of New York, including one for Clinton Hill, Brooklyn.<br />
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The 2014 slow zones, which lower speed limits from 30 mph to 20 mph where needed (in addition to adding new signage, street markings, and speed bumps to city blocks) will help combat speeding in a Downtown Brooklyn area that is seeing increased commercial and residential development, as well as a sharp increase in bike riding.<br />
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Clinton Hill was selected for the program following strong community support. The administration also announced an additional 10 slow zones to be placed throughout the city— including the 35th District neighborhoods of Crown Heights and Prospect Heights, in 2015 and 2016 respectively.
For the 2014 slow zone, <b>the <a href="http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/downloads/pdf/2013-10-neighborhood-slow-zones-clinton-hill-bed-stuy-bk.pdf">area borders</a> Lafayette Avenue to Fulton Street, and Washington Avenue stretching beyond Classon Avenue, extending two blocks into Bedford-Stuyvesant</b>.<br />
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“I am pleased to announce the Clinton Hill Slow Zone,” said <b>Council Member Letitia James</b>. “Clinton Hill is beginning to experience record high traffic, on par with its neighbor Fort Greene. With numerous schools and day care centers that span this strip of Clinton Hill and Bedford-Stuyvesant, I hope that these traffic calming measures will create a safer community for all.”
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###Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-31607144517229972912013-10-09T13:49:00.001-04:002013-10-09T13:49:45.979-04:00ATTENTION: 2nd Fowler Square Redesign Session; 10/19; Fowler Square<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GkCO8fTaIFI/UlWWVSglegI/AAAAAAAACOM/Cye0kexSREg/s1600/3957619_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GkCO8fTaIFI/UlWWVSglegI/AAAAAAAACOM/Cye0kexSREg/s200/3957619_300.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://faballiance.org/">FAB Alliance</a> will be hosting the 2nd Public Workshop for the FOWLER SQUARE REDESIGN, the next step in the on-going community input process for the redesign and construction of a permanent plaza at Fulton Street and Lafayette Avenue in Fort Greene, Brooklyn.<br />
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There will be a presentation of preliminary design plans and opportunities for attendees to provide feedback.<br />
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The workshop will be held outdoors at <b>Fowler Square, Saturday, October 19, 2013, 11am-1pm</b> (Presentation by the design team at 12:00 noon).<br />
<br />
<b><u>WHAT</u></b>: FOWLER SQUARE REDESIGN- WORKSHOP II<br />
<b><u>WHEN</u></b>: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2013<br />
11:00am-1:00pm<br />
(Presentation by the design team at 12:00 noon)<br />
<b><u>WHERE</u></b>: Fort Greene's Fowler SquareAja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-83954825633346943772013-10-02T18:49:00.000-04:002013-10-02T18:49:34.010-04:00JUDGE RULES IN FAVOR OF SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS UNION IN DISPUTE WITH OWNERS **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**<br />
SEPTEMBER 27, 2013<br />
<br />
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081<br />
<br />
<b>JUDGE RULES IN FAVOR OF SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS UNION IN DISPUTE WITH OWNERS</b><br />
<i>Administration Misrepresented Legal Positions; Judge Rules Companies Must Repay Lost Wages</i><br />
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(New York, NY)— Recently, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruled that New York City’s busing companies will be required to repay school bus drivers and matrons lost wages and benefits following an illegally declared impasse last spring.<br />
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Earlier this year, I called on the City Council to launch a full investigation of the administration’s previous negotiations regarding the school bus driver’s strike, following misrepresentations surrounding their legal ability to bargain with Local 1181. Mayor Bloomberg, Department of Education Chancellor Dennis Walcott, and representatives of Corporation Counsel previously presented to the City Council information regarding the solicitation of contracts for school bus transportation services— specifically the decision not to include traditional Employee Protection Provisions (“EPPs”) for school bus drivers, matrons, and mechanics. They claimed that including the EPPs in the solicitation for bids was something “we are not legally permitted to do”, a claim that was false.<br />
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As predicted, through the administration’s removal of EPPs, bus drivers lost job security. Bus contractors no longer had an incentive to keep existing bus drivers who were likely to request fair wages and benefits for their labor. The actions of the administration, and their enabling of bus companies, effectively dismantled union power and hurt workers. The wage cuts implemented following the illegal impasse resulted in a 7.5 percent loss for drivers and 3.5 percent for matrons. The companies also reduced overtime, and made major cuts in health insurance contributions.<br />
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<b>The NLRB’s ruling found that the employers violated the law by declaring impasse on March 19, 2013, and unlawfully walked away from the bargaining table to impose drastic wage cuts. The ruling comes on the heels of a Federal Court ruling earlier this month which also agreed the companies had improperly issued an impasse, and ordered all wage reductions overturned moving forward</b>.<br />
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“The administration failed to act in good faith in these negotiations from the beginning, and it was the workers who were hurt. I hope that as we move forward the bus companies and the City can work together to finalize a fair agreement,” said <b>Council Member Letitia James</b>.<br />
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Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-35354090720311140492013-10-02T18:44:00.000-04:002013-10-02T18:44:07.946-04:00ATTENTION: STAR Tax ExemptionThe <a href="http://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/star/index.htm">Basic School Tax Relief (STAR)</a> registration program is administered by the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, and provides homeowners with partial exemptions from school property taxes. If you earn less than $500,000 and own and live in your home, you are probably eligible for the STAR exemption.<br />
<br />
New York State legislation requires all homeowners receiving a Basic STAR exemption to register with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance in order to receive the exemption in 2014 and subsequent years. Homeowners may register: <a href="http://tax.ny.gov/pit/property/star13/default.htm">http://tax.ny.gov/pit/property/star13/default.htm</a>.<br />
<br />
Homeowners receiving Enhanced STAR do not have to register for this program.Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-52519451619651833512013-08-20T15:16:00.000-04:002013-08-20T15:16:47.639-04:00CM James Urges NYS To Reject DOE Request to Waive Minimum Requirements **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**<br />
AUGUST 19, 2013<br />
<br />
Contact: Barbara Sherman (212) 788-7081<br />
<br />
<b>Council Member Letitia James Urges New York State To Reject DOE Request to Waive Minimum Requirements</b><br />
<i>Renews Call for DOE to Meet New York State Standards Requiring Librarians In Public Schools</i><br />
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(New York, NY)— In May 2013, following a City Council Committee on Education hearing, Council Member Letitia James called on the New York City Department of Education (DOE) to reach compliance with New York State regarding the number of librarians in public schools. According to data provided by the DOE, there were only 306 librarians employed by the agency citywide at the time. The breakdown included 33 librarians placed in elementary schools, 95 in middle schools, and 178 librarians in public high schools.<br />
<br />
<b>Last week, the DOE asked for New York State to grant them a waiver so schools are no longer required to have librarians</b>. Already, more than half of the City’s high schools are in violation of State regulations that requires a specific number of librarians in schools, and the quantity of librarians in our schools have been in a steady decline.<br />
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“We cannot lose our school librarians, who are so instrumental to our children’s education and their future success,” said <b>Council Member Letitia James</b>. “College-preparation and career-readiness will be more difficult for students who do not have access to school libraries that teach them invaluable research skills. In light of the DOE’s recent standardized test scores, it would seem the department would work harder to meet this basic standard for student achievement.”<br />
<br />
For the Department of Education to be in compliance with State regulations, the DOE would have to hire approximately 280 librarians for placement in middle and high schools at a cost of $24 million. According to the administration’s FY14 Budget, library services for public schools remain flat, while charter school funding will increase by approximately $70 million for the fiscal year.<br />
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Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-9154126630835955912013-08-12T11:25:00.000-04:002013-08-12T12:35:23.457-04:00CM Letitia James: “Today’s ruling reflects the urgency many of us feel about reforming stop and frisk”**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** <br />
AUGUST 12, 2013<br />
<br />
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081<br />
<br />
<b>Council Member Letitia James: “Today’s ruling reflects the urgency many of us feel about reforming stop and frisk”
</b><br />
<i>Federal Judge Rules Stop and Frisk Violated Constitutional Rights of Thousands of New Yorkers</i><br />
<br />
(New York, NY)— Today, Manhattan Federal District Court Judge Shira A. Scheindlin ruled in <i>Floyd <u>vs</u>. the City of New York</i> that the New York City Police Department (NYPD) stop-and-frisk policy violated the constitutional rights of tens of thousands of New Yorkers.<br />
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In the decision, Judge Scheindlin recognized that police officers have systematically stopped people without any objective reason to suspect them of criminal behavior, and thus violation individual’s Fourth Amendment rights.<br />
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In January 2013, Judge Scheindlin ruled that the NYPD’s policy of stopping individuals suspected of trespassing outside private buildings in the Bronx was also unconstitutional. This was a practice common in private residences participating in the Trespass Affidavit Program (TAP). Judge Scheindlin ruled in <i>Ligon <u>vs</u>. the City of New York</i> that reasonable suspicion of trespassing was necessary for such arrests, while acknowledging that the department must determine where to draw the line between justified and unjustified stops. The court ruled that the NYPD must create a formal policy ‘specifying the limited circumstances in which it is legally permissible to stop a person outside a TAP building on a suspicion of trespass’.<br />
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Similarly, in today’s ruling, Judge Scheindlin called for a federal monitor to oversee departmental reforms, and stated her intention to assign an independent attorney to monitor the NYPD’s compliance with the Constitution moving forward.<br />
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“Today’s ruling reflects the urgency many of us feel about reforming stop and frisk in New York, and preserving the liberties of Black and Latino youth throughout this City,” said <b>Council Member Letitia James</b>. “It is imperative that the administration and the police department move to make transparent the rationale for street stops, as well as define long-used terms such as ‘furtive movements’. I hope that following these federal rulings, the administration moves towards making the necessary changes to facilitate a healthier relationship with minority communities.”<br />
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Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-14166360583181081132013-08-12T09:43:00.004-04:002013-08-12T09:43:54.705-04:00New York Political Advisor Bill Lynch Passes **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**<br />
AUGUST 12, 2013<br />
<br />
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081<br />
<br />
<b>New York Political Advisor Bill Lynch Passes </b><br />
<i>William Lynch Served As Deputy Mayor Under Dinkins Administration, Later Founded New York’s Premier African-American Owned Consulting Firm</i><br />
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(New York, NY)— “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Bill Lynch, one of New York City’s most active and well-regarded public affairs experts, and a brilliant political mind.”<br />
<br />
“Throughout the 1990’s, Mr. Lynch was known as a tireless public servant. As Deputy Mayor of the City of New York, and later as a political advisor, he remained an influential figure and voice for multi-ethnic community and coalition-building. Since establishing his firm, Mr. Lynch served as an advisor to countless elected officials, building Bill Lynch Associates LLC into a respected and successful consulting firm.”<br />
<br />
“Straight-forward and focused, Mr. Lynch was often called “the rumpled genius” for his unassuming manner and political expertise. I extend my condolences to his wife Mary, and two children, William Lynch III and Stacy.”<br />
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Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-56220349151420559422013-08-06T14:27:00.000-04:002013-08-06T14:27:45.450-04:00CM James Comments On Court Decision Regarding Council’s Prevailing Wage Bill**For Immediate Release** <br />
August 6, 2013
<br />
<br />
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
<br />
<br />
<strong>Council Member James Comments On Court Decision Regarding Council’s Prevailing Wage Bill</strong>
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<em>Manhattan Supreme Court Struck Down Bill Citing NYS Minimum Wage Conflict</em>
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<br />
(New York, NY)— On August 5, 2013, Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Geoffrey Wright struck down prevailing wage legislation passed in the New York City Council was, finding it to contradict New York State minimum wage laws.
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<br />
The prevailing wage legislation, initially approved by the Council in April 2012, would require recipients of major city subsidies to pay building service workers a prevailing wage, which will be set by the New York City Comptroller. <br />
<br />
Currently, prevailing wages are set by the Comptroller for work on public projects, though the wages differ by occupation and are meant to reflect current union rates.
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<br />
“I renew my support for the prevailing wage legislation, and join my colleagues in the fight for higher union-level wages for workers in buildings where the City is the major leaseholder,” said <strong>Council Member Letitia James</strong>. “In his decision Justice Wright recognized that—contrary to arguments from the administration— this legislation is beneficial to many of the City’s service workers and good for our local economy.”
<br />
<br />
On May 15, 2012, the City Council voted to override Mayor Bloomberg’s veto of the prevailing wage legislation.<br />
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Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-665418705494204182013-07-24T12:11:00.000-04:002013-07-24T12:11:17.215-04:00Two-Alarm Fire Along Myrtle Avenue In Clinton Hill, Brooklyn **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** <br />
JULY 23, 2013<br />
<br />
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081<br />
<br />
<b>Two-Alarm Fire Along Myrtle Avenue In Clinton Hill, Brooklyn </b><br />
<i>Manhole Exploded Due To A Basement Fire Along Commercial Strip</i><br />
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(New York, NY)— On July 23, 2013 around 11:30 a.m., a manhole near 463 Myrtle Avenue began smoking, and shortly after exploded. The explosion is believed to be due to a two-alarm fire in the basement of a nearby restaurant along Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn.
<br /><br />
The Fire Department arrived shortly, and evacuated seven surrounding buildings along Myrtle Avenue between Waverly and Washington Avenues. Two 3-story mixed commercial and residential buildings along the strip sustained minor damage from the explosion. Those nearby reported hearing the blast, and smelling a sulfur-like odor at the scene. An estimated thirty people were temporarily evacuated due to high carbon monoxide readings, however no injuries have been reported at this time.<br />
<br />
“I thank the FDNY, the NYPD, and Con Edison for their quick response to the explosion, and I am deeply relieved that no one was seriously injured,” said Council Member Letitia James.<br />
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The Red Cross has offered assistance to those affected by the blast, and at this time streets have been closed along Myrtle Avenue from Clinton Street to Hall Street, Washington Avenue from Park Avenue to Myrtle Avenue, and Waverly Avenue from Park Avenue to Myrtle Avenue. Additionally, the B54 bus has been temporarily re-routed.<br />
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Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-45031690120359378772013-07-24T10:24:00.001-04:002013-07-24T10:24:33.711-04:00CM James Discusses NYPD Stop And Frisk Policy On MSNBC<object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=10,0,0,0" height="245" id="msnbc950b66" width="420"><param name="movie" value="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32545640" /><param name="FlashVars" value="launch=52559866&width=420&height=245" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><embed name="msnbc950b66" src="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32545640" width="420" height="245" FlashVars="launch=52559866&width=420&height=245" allowscriptaccess="always" allowFullScreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.adobe.com/shockwave/download/download.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object><br />
See Council Member Letitia James on MSNBC's <b>"All In W/ Chris Hayes"</b> discussing the administration's stop, question, and frisk policy.<br />
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<div style="background: transparent; color: #999999; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-top: 5px; text-align: center; width: 420px;">
Visit NBCNews.com for <a href="http://www.nbcnews.com/" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #999 !important; color: #5799DB !important; font-weight: normal !important; height: 13px; text-decoration: none !important;">breaking news</a>, <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032507" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #999 !important; color: #5799DB !important; font-weight: normal !important; height: 13px; text-decoration: none !important;">world news</a>, and <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032072" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #999 !important; color: #5799DB !important; font-weight: normal !important; height: 13px; text-decoration: none !important;">news about the economy</a></div>
Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-56468169116364928522013-07-18T14:49:00.000-04:002013-07-18T14:50:09.700-04:00CM Letitia James Joins UFT At Press Conference Announcing Lawsuit Re: DOE Plans for School Co-locations in Next Mayor’s Term<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqXVVpWzckv4z983FII2N1xv2N0WbIw94q5yXZ3Rbp9y6PcZI6XG1kx8h0Fk7hhLcI1Dx16RBzikOy4YGD2thSJEdnFAYUKWaWiXQiEjYTZMpjTa0qdljCOlzoR15DYM3KTGwbvecp1o/s1600/IMG_0481.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqXVVpWzckv4z983FII2N1xv2N0WbIw94q5yXZ3Rbp9y6PcZI6XG1kx8h0Fk7hhLcI1Dx16RBzikOy4YGD2thSJEdnFAYUKWaWiXQiEjYTZMpjTa0qdljCOlzoR15DYM3KTGwbvecp1o/s320/IMG_0481.jpeg" width="239" /></a></div>
<b><i>Council Member Letitia James Joins UFT At Press Conference Announcing Lawsuit to Block Administration Plans for School Co-locations in Next Mayor’s Term</i></b><br />
<br />
Today (July 18th) New York City parents and teachers joined United Federation of Teachers (UFT) President Michael Mulgrew and elected officials to protest Mayor Bloomberg's efforts to saddle New York City's next mayor with his failed school policies.<br />
<br />
During his final months in City Hall, Mayor Bloomberg is trying to cement plans for a dozen or more co-locations that would not open until long after he leaves office.<br />
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The UFT will file a lawsuit Thursday in New York State Supreme Court to stop the Department of Education from starting these co-locations- projects that attempt to bind the next mayoral administration to the same failed education agenda.<br />
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"Eight years was enough, and twelve years has been too long-- the DOE is asking us to vote for charter schools housed in public schools years in advance," said Council Member Letitia James. "This is a desperate attempt by DOE to beat the clock-- but we must stop the clock!"Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-7745133639886304802013-07-17T15:16:00.000-04:002013-07-17T15:16:57.032-04:00ATTENTION: Brooklyn Museum Presents "Save Our African American Treasures"; 7/20; 11AM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrNSHQAIAuWSnCHwcBNzViYgR0r59OOES2B59zozpoLvFwkI4UvALqNBr1rajGddkswqMW0cTIXAOR8dPkTPosQXagh_aJPlMwoUOX___QTbKNt0hx5Zc9MlFvoWAh5A4ly3tMDxrvu6I/s1600/nmaahc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrNSHQAIAuWSnCHwcBNzViYgR0r59OOES2B59zozpoLvFwkI4UvALqNBr1rajGddkswqMW0cTIXAOR8dPkTPosQXagh_aJPlMwoUOX___QTbKNt0hx5Zc9MlFvoWAh5A4ly3tMDxrvu6I/s320/nmaahc.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
<i><b>Save Our African American Treasures: A National Collections Initiative of Discovery and Preservation</b></i>
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On Saturday, July 20th, the Brooklyn Museum will join the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African American History and Culture to present a daylong program to help Brooklyn residents identify and preserve items of historical and cultural significance tucked away in attics, closets, and basements. The event features presentations, hands-on activities, and preservation tips.
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Participants may bring up to three personal items for a 15-minute, professional consultation with experts on how to care for the items. Specialists will serve as reviewers, not appraisers, and will not determine items’ monetary value. Objects such as books, papers, ceramics, and textiles no larger than a shopping bag can be reviewed (furniture, carpets, firearms, and paintings are excluded).<br />
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The Treasures program also features fun and informative presentations throughout the day, including:<br />
- Preservation Presentations: Learn how to preserve clothing and textiles, family photographs, and papers. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions.<br />
- Hands-on Preservation: Gain hands-on experience in proper preparation and packing of letters, garments, and photographs for preservation, storage, and presentation.
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For more information, please call the Save Our African American Treasures information line at (877) 733-9599.
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<b><u>WHEN</u></b>: Saturday, July 20, 2013<br />
11AM- 6PM
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<b><u>WHERE</u></b>: 200 Eastern Parkway<br />
Brooklyn, NY 11238Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-10769541562210075232013-07-09T12:14:00.002-04:002013-07-09T12:18:14.394-04:00CM James on the Need to Preserve NYC Public Libraries<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="250" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/SHBeXxUFOz8" width="460"></iframe><br />
Council Member Letitia James and Steve Levin speak on the need to preserve New York City public libraries.Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-89829983554706693402013-06-27T14:19:00.002-04:002013-06-27T14:19:57.844-04:00ATTENTION: NYC Summer Meals Program Begins TODAY<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vhv1tKB-MK8/UcyCILMaGDI/AAAAAAAACK4/UHXsAT4rYco/s526/Summer+Meals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="115" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vhv1tKB-MK8/UcyCILMaGDI/AAAAAAAACK4/UHXsAT4rYco/s200/Summer+Meals.jpg" width="200" /></a>Dear Resident,<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.opt-osfns.org/schoolfood/public1/default.aspx">New York City's Summer Meals Program</a> starts today (June 27th), and we wanted to help get the word about this great opportunity for kids 18 years or younger to receive free breakfast and lunch every weekday during the summer.<br />
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The Summer Meals program is completely free and doesn't require any paperwork. All kids need to do is show up at one of the 1,000 of schools, parks, pools, community centers and other sites around the five boroughs where this program is being offered and they can receive a free healthy lunch and breakfast. <i>The only requirement is that they be 18 years old or younger</i>.<br />
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Families are encouraged to take advantage of this important program, which will be operating throughout the summer until August 30th.
To find a site near you, call 311, text the word NYCMeals to 877-877, or visit <a href="http://newyorkcity.nokidhungry.org/free-summer-meals">http://newyorkcity.nokidhungry.org/free-summer-meals</a>.<br />
Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-37006083535937296842013-06-26T14:00:00.003-04:002013-06-26T14:00:29.391-04:00ATTENTION: Tell Your Representative To Protect Voting Rights<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VeJUhiFHzJA/Ucsr-r1BcCI/AAAAAAAACKo/SE9UR6SMsR0/s1600/votingrights_230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VeJUhiFHzJA/Ucsr-r1BcCI/AAAAAAAACKo/SE9UR6SMsR0/s200/votingrights_230.jpg" width="200" /></a>The Supreme Court has made a major decision that impacts voting rights for every American.<br />
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In striking down Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act – but leaving Section 5 untouched – there is no longer a mechanism in place to prevent states with a history of voter disenfranchisement from enacting such laws.<br />
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While this is a setback, it is by no means the end of the game. The Supreme Court's decision gives Congress complete authority to ensure no person is denied the right to vote.<br />
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Communities of color, and young, women, elderly, and disabled voters are at risk. Tell Congress to take immediate action to protect the voting rights for millions of Americans. Sign the <a href="http://www.naacp.org/page/s/vra-no-voting-rights?source=20130617VRAnoshareFB&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&utm_campaign=20130617VRAnoshareFB&utm_content=share">NAACP petition</a> today.Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-15506809209762929282013-06-19T12:27:00.000-04:002013-06-19T15:01:39.568-04:00CM James Secures Additional Affordable Housing for BAM South; BPL Pacific Branch Spared from Sale, Demolition **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**<br />
JUNE 18, 2013<br />
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Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081<br />
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<i><b>Council Member Letitia James Secures Additional Affordable Housing for BAM South Project
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</b>BPL Pacific Branch Spared from Sale, Demolition</i><br />
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(New York, NY)— On June 17, 2013, Council Member Letitia James voted to approve the development of BAM South, the planned 32-story tower next to the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) being developed by Two Trees Management Company. The project was approved by a New York City Council.<br />
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In addition to the BAM South site, the City holds two additional sites in the Cultural District. The three development sites are expected to include approximately 900 apartments. Upon completion, 30% of two residential buildings will consist of affordable housing— <b>an increase from the traditional 80/20 housing structure</b>. BAM South, which represents a $135 million investment, will consist of a 32-story building containing approximately 300 residential units.<br />
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When completed, BAM South will also include a new public library, an extension of BAM’s cinema, and multiple performance spaces for cultural organizations. Additionally, the project will create a 16,000 square-foot publicly accessible plaza along Lafayette Avenue, and 22,800 square feet of ground floor retail and commercial space.<br />
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In a separate agreement with the administration, <b>the Brooklyn Public Library’s Pacific Street branch was spared from sale to a private developer</b>. The administration has committed to working with elected officials and community stakeholders to formulate a plan for service through an open process. A potential future change regarding the status of the library would require City Council approval. Additionally, Two Trees committed to including union workers in their construction bidding process<br />
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“I am pleased to again offer my support to BAM South, a project which will offer significant affordable housing to the Fort Greene community," said <b>Council Member Letitia James</b>. "I have always supported Two Trees’ vision for the project, and I believe it was important to ensure the project included significant community benefits such as increased affordable housing, maintaining the Pacific Street library, a commitment that cultural organizations utilizing the space will reflect the diversity of this community, and assurance that future utilization of the open space includes the input of all stakeholders.”<br />
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###Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-10674919251977447342013-06-19T12:09:00.000-04:002013-06-19T12:14:10.143-04:00ATTENTION: AT&T Street Charge Brings Solar-Powered Chargers To BrooklynAT&T Street Charge is a pilot program bringing solar-powered mobile charging stations to NYC. All station visitors will be able to charge their phones, tablets and other devices, regardless of their carrier, for free using these energy-efficient units. Several charging units will be deployed to locations throughout Brooklyn this summer, including in Fort Greene Park, Metrotech Center, and Brooklyn Bridge Park.
See more <a href="http://www.att.com/Common/about_us/pdf/att_street_charge.PDF">here</a>. Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-80392953807065388352013-06-19T12:02:00.001-04:002013-06-19T12:02:53.068-04:00ATTENTION: NEW NYC Hurricane Map ReleasedThe City has released an updated hurricane evacuation map that expands flood zones to include 37% of the city’s population.<br />
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Evacuation zones are now divided into 1 through 6, rather than A, B and C. The map may be viewed <a href="http://maps.nyc.gov/hurricane/">here</a>.Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-5283790310367922032013-06-12T15:39:00.000-04:002013-06-12T15:40:25.214-04:00A Message from Council Member Letitia James: Regarding BAM South“Affordable housing and good-paying jobs for our community remain my top priorities as deliberations on the BAM South project continue. I remain concerned about the closure of a nearby historic library, and feel strongly that the project must address this unfortunate loss of public and community space.<br />
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Contrary to certain reports, I’ve never backed down from supporting the vision of BAM South, but I believe the project must deliver additional affordable housing units and jobs that middle-class and working-class New Yorkers can live with. These are not <b><i>new</i></b> demands, though they have received particular notice as the project vote draws near.<br />
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I feel strongly that all developments in the 35th District should seek to meet the unique needs of our diverse, growing community, and I believe that this project when finalized will do so.”<br />
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- Council Member Letitia JamesAja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-39838460027387605952013-06-07T12:17:00.004-04:002013-06-07T12:17:24.173-04:00ATTENTION: Myrtle Ave. Community Meeting: Improving Neighborhood Safety, 6/10, 7pm; SoCo (509 Myrtle Avenue)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eBtFXBuoPRs/UbIHTfdsXHI/AAAAAAAACJo/hI87KTRtluw/s1600/Community+Safety+Meeting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eBtFXBuoPRs/UbIHTfdsXHI/AAAAAAAACJo/hI87KTRtluw/s400/Community+Safety+Meeting.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-233883895742288198.post-89894225985126205372013-05-28T12:28:00.001-04:002013-05-28T12:29:30.441-04:00ATTENTION: Speed Reducer Requested for Carroll Street In Crown Heights<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR74w9b2A09ZJF8bRokPB4Zo2BGvs2C3skvkm7EAlSPNmZ1UCnVYmlmLP30CuFQJ9FHTFEFcMH9mtlTeoB9PRIvf6_Ev36dChRy45XxpiCCfzGjA89WxEQ6IWf8JjcLWclFbjCf6V8K3I/s1600/Speed+Hump.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR74w9b2A09ZJF8bRokPB4Zo2BGvs2C3skvkm7EAlSPNmZ1UCnVYmlmLP30CuFQJ9FHTFEFcMH9mtlTeoB9PRIvf6_Ev36dChRy45XxpiCCfzGjA89WxEQ6IWf8JjcLWclFbjCf6V8K3I/s200/Speed+Hump.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
Council Member Letitia James has requested a speed reducer on Carroll Street between Nostrand Avenue and New York Avenue in partnership with the Crown Heights community.<br />
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The NYC Department of Transportations will conduct a comprehensive investigation of the proposed locations to evaluate the warrant and feasibility of a <i>speed hump installation</i>. We anticipate completion of the study within the next sixteen weeks. Please contact the Office of Council Member Letitia James at (718) 260-9191 if you have further questions.Aja Worthy-Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792886735471015728noreply@blogger.com0