Bike the Branches is a one-day bike ride to help raise critical funds for Brooklyn Public Library
On Saturday, May 11, follow one exciting route.
Be sure to visit as many branches as you can, and get your official “passport” stamped at each location.
WHERE: Brooklyn Central Library
WHEN: Saturday, May 11, 2013
5:00- 7:00PM
Registration is $20 for adults and $10 for kids.
Showing posts with label fundraiser. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fundraiser. Show all posts
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Friday, December 7, 2012
Friends of Clinton Hill Library Book and Bake Sale!

Saturday, December 8th 10 AM—4 PM
• Raise funds for programs and materials at the Clinton Hill branch.
• FREE tattoos for kids!
To help staff the sale or to donate baked goods, please call 718-398- 8713 during library hours.
Clinton Hill Branch, 380 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn
M/Tu/Th/Fri 10-6
Wed 1-8
Sat 10-5
Friday, December 17, 2010
CM James Dances At Stars of NY Dance For A Cause!
"Even though I lost Stars of NY Dance for a Cause, it was great to participate and dance to fundraise for youth in the community!"- Council Member Letitia James.
*Video borrowed from Bed-Stuy Patch.
*Video borrowed from Bed-Stuy Patch.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
UPDATE: The Stars of NY Dance Re-Scheduled, Additional Stars Dancing!

The Stars of New York Dance event has been re-scheduled-- with Public Advocate Bill Deblasio joining as event host and special guest dancer, and the Rev. Al Sharpton joining as special guest dancer, the event is sure to be amazing!
Tickets are available here.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
FG Park Conservancy Hosts Dance Party; 10/14; 7PM; FG

You are invited to join the Fort Greene Park Conservancy in a dance to support free programs at Fort Greene Park--
WHEN: Thursday, October 14th, 7PM
WHERE: Brooklyn Masonic Temple
317 Clermont Avenue
Brooklyn, NY
For more information, see here.
Monday, October 11, 2010
ATTENTION: UPDATE Concerning Stars of NY Dance; DATE CHANCE
Council Member Letitia James thanks you all for your overwhelming response to The Stars of New York Dance! We are all looking forward to a tremendous event. In an effort to make the event more accessible, the date has changed and the new date will be posted both on the event website and here shortly.
"Great, I have more time to rehearse and win!" - Council Member Letitia James
For more information, please call 917-623-7299, or e-mail cheryltod@verizon.net.
NY Times Features The Stars of New York Dance: http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/10/10/dancing-stars/. Here's their video coverage--
"Great, I have more time to rehearse and win!" - Council Member Letitia James
For more information, please call 917-623-7299, or e-mail cheryltod@verizon.net.
NY Times Features The Stars of New York Dance: http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/10/10/dancing-stars/. Here's their video coverage--
Friday, August 6, 2010
Save the Date! The Stars of New York Dance
Tuesday, October 12, 2010 at The New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge
Council Member Letitia James is one of five New York City business and community leaders who will volunteer their time and take a big risk as they dance and compete to raise dance scholarship funds for at-risk children at The Stars of New York Dance Fundraiser.
- New York City Council Member Letitia James dances with Jamel Gaines of Creative Outlet Dance Theatre of Brooklyn.
- WNBA Legend Kym Hampton dances with Lakai Worrell of Purelements: An Evolution in Dance.
- Colvin Grannum, President & CEO, Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation, dances with Shani M. Worrell of Restoration's Youth Arts Academy.
- Jocelyn Taylor, President & CEO, JRT Multimedia, LLC, dances with Ronald K. Brown of Evidence: A Dance Company.
- Kenneth A. Smaltz, President & CEO, K. Smaltz, Inc., dances with Lauren Deveaux of Asase Yaa African American Dance Theatre.
- Errol Louis of the NY Daily News, CNN and WWRL 1600 will host and dance the Tango!
Hope to see you there.
---------
You are invited to the following event: The Stars of New York Dance
Date: Tuesday, October 12, 2010 at 6:30 PM (ET)
Location: New York Marriott at the--
Brooklyn Bridge
333 Adams Street
Brooklyn , NY 11201
For Tickets @ http://thestarsofnewyorkdance.eventbrite.com/
More information @ http://www.thestarsofnewyorkdance.com/
Become a fan of The Stars of New York Dance on FACEBOOK, Follow them @StarsofNYDance on Twitter. The Stars of New York Dance is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. http://www.fracturedatlas.org/.
Council Member Letitia James is one of five New York City business and community leaders who will volunteer their time and take a big risk as they dance and compete to raise dance scholarship funds for at-risk children at The Stars of New York Dance Fundraiser.
- New York City Council Member Letitia James dances with Jamel Gaines of Creative Outlet Dance Theatre of Brooklyn.
- WNBA Legend Kym Hampton dances with Lakai Worrell of Purelements: An Evolution in Dance.
- Colvin Grannum, President & CEO, Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation, dances with Shani M. Worrell of Restoration's Youth Arts Academy.
- Jocelyn Taylor, President & CEO, JRT Multimedia, LLC, dances with Ronald K. Brown of Evidence: A Dance Company.
- Kenneth A. Smaltz, President & CEO, K. Smaltz, Inc., dances with Lauren Deveaux of Asase Yaa African American Dance Theatre.
- Errol Louis of the NY Daily News, CNN and WWRL 1600 will host and dance the Tango!
Hope to see you there.
---------
You are invited to the following event: The Stars of New York Dance
Date: Tuesday, October 12, 2010 at 6:30 PM (ET)
Location: New York Marriott at the--
Brooklyn Bridge
333 Adams Street
Brooklyn , NY 11201
For Tickets @ http://thestarsofnewyorkdance.eventbrite.com/
More information @ http://www.thestarsofnewyorkdance.com/
Become a fan of The Stars of New York Dance on FACEBOOK, Follow them @StarsofNYDance on Twitter. The Stars of New York Dance is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. http://www.fracturedatlas.org/.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
FRIA SELECTED AS AN OFFICIAL CHARITY FOR THE 2010 ING NYC MARATHON
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Lisa Jackson
Lilclif@verizon.net
FRIA SELECTED AS AN OFFICIAL CHARITY FOR THE 2010 ING NEW YORK CITY MARATHON
District 35 Council Member Letitia James joins FRIA on the steps of City Hall, Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 12 Noon, for the RUN-Raise fund-raiser to support FRIA’s programs and services for New York Elders and Their Caregivers
ALERT: This press conference was originally scheduled for 11am and moved to 12pm.New York, NY – July 20, 2010 – On Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 12 Noon, Council Member Letitia James, other elected officials and supporters of FRIA will join FRIA on the steps of City Hall to announce its selection as one of the Official Charities for the 2010 ING New York City Marathon to take place on Sunday, November 7, 2010, as well as inform the public that it will also be accepting donations. This opportunity allows FRIA to provide guaranteed marathon entries to 5 runners who pledge to raise a minimum of $2500 each for FRIA.
The marathon lottery is officially closed for 2010; hence, running for an official ING NYC Marathon Charity is the only way an applicant may run in the marathon. This is not only an opportunity to run in the premier race attracting world-class professional athletes before two million cheering spectators and 315 million worldwide television viewers…. but also a great opportunity to support New York’s leading elder-care advocacy organization dedicated to fostering the dignity and independence of seniors in long term care settings. It is befitting that this opportunity present itself in November, which is National Family Caregivers Month.
For over 30 years, FRIA has provided resources, information and advocacy on long term care issues to New York elders, their caregivers, elder-care attorneys and other health care professionals. As an Official Charity Partner, FRIA is building a team of five designated FRIA runners, other already registered marathoners and supporters from New York and afar who will donate and RUNRaise on behalf of FRIA. All funds raised by Team FRIA will be used to support FRIA's programs and services.
FRIA is pleased to be joined by New York City Council Member, Letitia James of Brooklyn’s 35th District; Olanike Alabi, District Leader of the 57th Assembly District; other elected officials and/or their staff.
“I am proud to be a friend of FRIA because this organization supports those shoulders the community stands on….the elderly and their caregivers. Also, now that FRIA is an official charity for the 2010 ING New York City Marathon, 5 more athletes will have the opportunity to run in the world’s premiere marathon, as well as fundraise for New York ’s leading elder-care advocacy organization,” said Council Member James. “Every November I join my neighbors in supporting runners, and this year my level of enthusiasm will be unmatched when FRIA runners pass by my residence, as they race through the 35th Council District on the way to the finish line.”
FRIA’s Board Members, one of whom is 88 year old Ethel Paley, a founding member of FRIA (and former NY1 News, New Yorker of The Week) who still volunteers with FRIA’s Help Line, will attend; along with caregivers who FRIA has assisted and supporters of FRIA over the years. Quintessential New Yorkers and caregivers, Tony Award winning stage/screen actress, Adriane Lenox (“Doubt”) and her husband, Tony Award Nominated Composer & Music Director, Zane Mark (“Bring In ‘Da Noise, Bring In ‘Da Funk”) will also be present.
Contact: Lisa Jackson
Lilclif@verizon.net
FRIA SELECTED AS AN OFFICIAL CHARITY FOR THE 2010 ING NEW YORK CITY MARATHON
District 35 Council Member Letitia James joins FRIA on the steps of City Hall, Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 12 Noon, for the RUN-Raise fund-raiser to support FRIA’s programs and services for New York Elders and Their Caregivers
ALERT: This press conference was originally scheduled for 11am and moved to 12pm.New York, NY – July 20, 2010 – On Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 12 Noon, Council Member Letitia James, other elected officials and supporters of FRIA will join FRIA on the steps of City Hall to announce its selection as one of the Official Charities for the 2010 ING New York City Marathon to take place on Sunday, November 7, 2010, as well as inform the public that it will also be accepting donations. This opportunity allows FRIA to provide guaranteed marathon entries to 5 runners who pledge to raise a minimum of $2500 each for FRIA.
The marathon lottery is officially closed for 2010; hence, running for an official ING NYC Marathon Charity is the only way an applicant may run in the marathon. This is not only an opportunity to run in the premier race attracting world-class professional athletes before two million cheering spectators and 315 million worldwide television viewers…. but also a great opportunity to support New York’s leading elder-care advocacy organization dedicated to fostering the dignity and independence of seniors in long term care settings. It is befitting that this opportunity present itself in November, which is National Family Caregivers Month.
For over 30 years, FRIA has provided resources, information and advocacy on long term care issues to New York elders, their caregivers, elder-care attorneys and other health care professionals. As an Official Charity Partner, FRIA is building a team of five designated FRIA runners, other already registered marathoners and supporters from New York and afar who will donate and RUNRaise on behalf of FRIA. All funds raised by Team FRIA will be used to support FRIA's programs and services.
FRIA is pleased to be joined by New York City Council Member, Letitia James of Brooklyn’s 35th District; Olanike Alabi, District Leader of the 57th Assembly District; other elected officials and/or their staff.
“I am proud to be a friend of FRIA because this organization supports those shoulders the community stands on….the elderly and their caregivers. Also, now that FRIA is an official charity for the 2010 ING New York City Marathon, 5 more athletes will have the opportunity to run in the world’s premiere marathon, as well as fundraise for New York ’s leading elder-care advocacy organization,” said Council Member James. “Every November I join my neighbors in supporting runners, and this year my level of enthusiasm will be unmatched when FRIA runners pass by my residence, as they race through the 35th Council District on the way to the finish line.”
FRIA’s Board Members, one of whom is 88 year old Ethel Paley, a founding member of FRIA (and former NY1 News, New Yorker of The Week) who still volunteers with FRIA’s Help Line, will attend; along with caregivers who FRIA has assisted and supporters of FRIA over the years. Quintessential New Yorkers and caregivers, Tony Award winning stage/screen actress, Adriane Lenox (“Doubt”) and her husband, Tony Award Nominated Composer & Music Director, Zane Mark (“Bring In ‘Da Noise, Bring In ‘Da Funk”) will also be present.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Things We May Have Neglected To Mention: The Missions
Prostate Cancer Screening
The Art, Soul, Future of Brooklyn
I See Promotions, LLC, in association with the Ajile L. Turner Scholarship Fund, present a Fort Greene Festival featuring Common and other performing artists and vendors. For more information you may call (718) 902-9641 or visit http://www.fortgreenefest.com/.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Fort Greene Park
12noon- 10pm
According to a recent article the NY Daily News, "African-American men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer as white men. And Caribbean-born men in Brooklyn are three times as likely to die from the disease as U.S.-born men." What could be a better gift to a man in your life than the constant nagging to get a prostate screenning? More info here.
Save The Double D Pool
On June 20th, Council Members James and Levin joined Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz (who apparently donned his swimming trunks) and State Senator Velmanette Montgomery at a demonstration protesting the City's decision to close of one Brooklyn's most popular outdoor swimming pools- The Double D Pool. It is located at the Thomas Greene Park in Brooklyn, and provides free services (lunches, training, etc.) for residents of Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill, and Carroll Gardens. There's a petition here.
On Thursday June 24, 2010, you can make a difference in the life of graduating high school senior by dining at the Applebee's Restaurant, located at Fulton Street & Marcy Avenue in Bedford-Stuyvesant's Restoration Plaza. Ten percent of your bill will be donated to the scholarship fund for the Restoration Dance Theatre Company. Present this flyer to your server, and become an individual donor of Restoration's youth scholarship program.
The Art, Soul, Future of Brooklyn
I See Promotions, LLC, in association with the Ajile L. Turner Scholarship Fund, present a Fort Greene Festival featuring Common and other performing artists and vendors. For more information you may call (718) 902-9641 or visit http://www.fortgreenefest.com/.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Fort Greene Park
12noon- 10pm
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Team Tish: Some Recent Photos
It's been a long time since we did a recent pictures post, so here we go. Let's join Council Member James on some wild-ish adventures throughout the 35th:
CM James joins seniors in August 2009 to discuss changes within the NYC Department for the Aging.
____________________________________________________
CM James is joined by Comptroller Bill Thompson and CM David Weprin at a rally to protest unfair rent increases on October 1, 2009 at City Hall.
CM James is joined by Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn (DDDB) and (Brooklyn's own) actor John Turturro at DDDB's "Walk Don't Destroy" Fundraiser on October 17, 2009.
We don't even know...but it's cool.
___________________________________________________
CM James and Nancy Romer of the Brooklyn Food Coalition work a table at October 24, 2009's Fort Greene Food Conference.
___________________________________________________
CM James joins tenants and activists on October 29, 2009 to speak out against conditions at Dermot properties, and lack of affordable housing throughout the district.
*Photo courtesy of Stefano Giovannini
ATTENTION: BK Food Coalition Meetings Begin; United Way Grants

You are invited to a Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Community Meeting of the Brooklyn Food Coalition
Thursday, November 5, 2009
6:30pm
Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project
472 Myrtle Avenue, 2nd Fl. (Press the buzzer labeled "MARP")
Brooklyn, N.Y. 11205
__________________________________________________
The United Way of New York City is offering grants of $5K- $20K to community-based organizations with budgets under $5 million for assistance with fundraising, fiscal management, and strategic planning. Further details may be obtained at this link.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Things We May Have Neglected To Mention
If You Were Wondering Where Your Money Was
Check out NYCStat Stimulus Tracker to track the City's use of federal stimulus/recovery funds provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA); and Council Member David Yassky's ItsYourMoney.com (which simplifies the information the Council provides here).
More Parking Suspension
Alternate Side Parking Regulations Suspended In Parts Of Downtown Brooklyn, Brooklyn Heights (South of Joralemon Street), Boerum Hill, Fort Greene, and Clinton Hill Starting September 8th For Six To Eight Weeks As DOT Posts New, Reduced Street-Cleaning Regulations.
New regulations will take effect in Downtown Brooklyn, DUMBO, Vinegar Hill, Fulton Ferry, and Brooklyn Heights (Joralemon Street and North) starting September 14th.
Suspension is the final of three phases for neighborhoods in Community District 2.
The suspension will last in Brooklyn's Community District 2 for approximately six to eight weeks as the Department of Transportation (DOT) installs some 2,000 signs with new, reduced regulations. This is the third and final phase of the project to change signs throughout the district. (You can read about the previous phases here and here)
The second phase of the sign-replacement project is now complete, with signs in Downtown Brooklyn, DUMBO, Vinegar Hill, Fulton Ferry and Brooklyn Heights north of Joralemon Street having been replaced since July 13th. The newly posted regulations will be enforceable on Monday, September 14, giving residents two weeks to adjust to the new rules.
In the upcoming phase of the sign-replacement project, some daytime residential street cleaning parking restrictions are being reduced from twice a week to just once a week to ease parking for local residents. In other cases, only the time of day of the street-cleaning regulation will change. The new rules were established by the Department of Sanitation at the request of Community Board 2.
Street Cleaning Regulations (all parking signs marked with a broom symbol) will be suspended within the following borders from September 8th until further notice:
North: Joralemon Street (not included) from Furman Street to Boerum Place;
Fulton Street (included) from Boerum Place to Classon Avenue.
East: Classon Avenue (included) from Fulton Street to Atlantic Avenue.
South: Atlantic Avenue (not included) from Furman Street to Court Street;
Court Street (not included) from Atlantic Avenue to Wyckoff Street;
Wyckoff Street/St. Mark’s Place (included) from Court Street to 4th Avenue;
4th Avenue (not included) from St. Mark's Place to Pacific Street;
4th Avenue (included) from Atlantic Avenue to Pacific Street;
Atlantic Avenue (included) from 4th Avenue to Classon Avenue.
West: Furman Street (included) from Atlantic Avenue to Joralemon Street.
As the attached map indicates, Street Cleaning Regulations will be in effect on Joralemon Street; on Atlantic Avenue west of Court Street; on Court Street from Atlantic Avenue to Wyckoff Street; and on 4th Avenue from St. Mark's Place to Pacific Street.
The changes do not affect 8AM to 6PM parking rules or meter regulations, or any other parking rules that are not street cleaning regulations. DOT will give advance notification before enforcement resumes, and the public is encouraged to check the DOT's Web site or call 311.
Upcoming Events
You are invited to attend the 2nd Annual Garden Party Fundraiser for the Center for Law & Social Justice at Medgar Evers College.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
3pm- 7pm
Japanese Garden
931-933 Bedford Avenue (between Dekalb & Willoughby)
Brooklyn, NY, 11205
For more information and tickets call (718)270-6297, or email jgibbs@mec.cuny.edu.
Friends of South Oxford Park present a free Jazzmobile Concert!
South Oxford Street (between Fulton Street & Atlantic Avenue)
Saturday, September 12, 2009
2:30pm- 4:30pm
Come out and enjoy a free concert of America's classical music known as JAZZ, with support from the office of Council Member Letitia James and local restaurant Night of the Cookers.
Check out NYCStat Stimulus Tracker to track the City's use of federal stimulus/recovery funds provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA); and Council Member David Yassky's ItsYourMoney.com (which simplifies the information the Council provides here).
More Parking Suspension
Alternate Side Parking Regulations Suspended In Parts Of Downtown Brooklyn, Brooklyn Heights (South of Joralemon Street), Boerum Hill, Fort Greene, and Clinton Hill Starting September 8th For Six To Eight Weeks As DOT Posts New, Reduced Street-Cleaning Regulations.
New regulations will take effect in Downtown Brooklyn, DUMBO, Vinegar Hill, Fulton Ferry, and Brooklyn Heights (Joralemon Street and North) starting September 14th.
Suspension is the final of three phases for neighborhoods in Community District 2.
The suspension will last in Brooklyn's Community District 2 for approximately six to eight weeks as the Department of Transportation (DOT) installs some 2,000 signs with new, reduced regulations. This is the third and final phase of the project to change signs throughout the district. (You can read about the previous phases here and here)
The second phase of the sign-replacement project is now complete, with signs in Downtown Brooklyn, DUMBO, Vinegar Hill, Fulton Ferry and Brooklyn Heights north of Joralemon Street having been replaced since July 13th. The newly posted regulations will be enforceable on Monday, September 14, giving residents two weeks to adjust to the new rules.
In the upcoming phase of the sign-replacement project, some daytime residential street cleaning parking restrictions are being reduced from twice a week to just once a week to ease parking for local residents. In other cases, only the time of day of the street-cleaning regulation will change. The new rules were established by the Department of Sanitation at the request of Community Board 2.
Street Cleaning Regulations (all parking signs marked with a broom symbol) will be suspended within the following borders from September 8th until further notice:
North: Joralemon Street (not included) from Furman Street to Boerum Place;
Fulton Street (included) from Boerum Place to Classon Avenue.
East: Classon Avenue (included) from Fulton Street to Atlantic Avenue.
South: Atlantic Avenue (not included) from Furman Street to Court Street;
Court Street (not included) from Atlantic Avenue to Wyckoff Street;
Wyckoff Street/St. Mark’s Place (included) from Court Street to 4th Avenue;
4th Avenue (not included) from St. Mark's Place to Pacific Street;
4th Avenue (included) from Atlantic Avenue to Pacific Street;
Atlantic Avenue (included) from 4th Avenue to Classon Avenue.
West: Furman Street (included) from Atlantic Avenue to Joralemon Street.
As the attached map indicates, Street Cleaning Regulations will be in effect on Joralemon Street; on Atlantic Avenue west of Court Street; on Court Street from Atlantic Avenue to Wyckoff Street; and on 4th Avenue from St. Mark's Place to Pacific Street.
The changes do not affect 8AM to 6PM parking rules or meter regulations, or any other parking rules that are not street cleaning regulations. DOT will give advance notification before enforcement resumes, and the public is encouraged to check the DOT's Web site or call 311.
Upcoming Events
You are invited to attend the 2nd Annual Garden Party Fundraiser for the Center for Law & Social Justice at Medgar Evers College.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
3pm- 7pm
Japanese Garden
931-933 Bedford Avenue (between Dekalb & Willoughby)
Brooklyn, NY, 11205
For more information and tickets call (718)270-6297, or email jgibbs@mec.cuny.edu.
Friends of South Oxford Park present a free Jazzmobile Concert!
South Oxford Street (between Fulton Street & Atlantic Avenue)
Saturday, September 12, 2009
2:30pm- 4:30pm
Come out and enjoy a free concert of America's classical music known as JAZZ, with support from the office of Council Member Letitia James and local restaurant Night of the Cookers.
Monday, August 3, 2009
ATTENTION: Upcoming Community Events

Monday, August 3, 2009
8AM- 9AM
100 Wall Street, 23rd Floor
N.Y., N.Y. 10005
____________________________________
Cumberland Diagnostic & Treatment Center invite you to attend their World Breastfeeding Week Celebration--
Monday, August 3, 2009
10AM- 2PM
Cumberland Diagnostic & Treatment Center- Main Plaza
100 North Portland Avenue
Brooklyn, N.Y. 11205
The event will include games, gifts, raffles, guest speakers and refreshments.
_____________________________________
*photo courtesy of bizjournals Business News.
And don't forget about tonight's Public Advocate/ Comptroller Candidates' Forum at St. Francis College!
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Things We May Have Neglected To Mention
Our apologies for not updating for a while...
Town Hall
Last night, Council Member Letitia James held a Town Hall to address infrastructure in Clinton Hill following the Myrtle Avenue building collapse at St. Luke's Church on Washington Avenue between Willoughby and DeKalb Avs. Representatives from City Agencies were present, and were able to speak about what's happening at this point, as well as how to report structure-damage that is potentially dangerous. There will be additional communication after the appropriate City agencies have completed the necessary investigations into these matters. You can see more on NY1's report here.
Infrastructure in a majority-historic district is always a concern, but we urge people not to be unduly alarmed by these events. Responsibility for the care of property lies with the property owner. We encourage renters to sign legal leases, and attain renters insurance when possible.
Donating Money/Items
Our office has the donation list that can be accessed on the Chez Lola website. If you have items or goods to donate, please complete the form on the website. We are sending this information to the displaced residents, who can follow-up on the items they are interested in. There was a similar list set-up for Anh Nguyen and Andrew Schneider here: http://itpedia.nyu.edu/wiki/Myrtle_Avenue_Collapse_Benefit_page. Unfortunately, there is no general place to hold your donated items at this time. The search for housing remains the main concern for displaced residents.
Additionally, we are strongly encouraging monetary donations. Here are some individual donation sites:
To donate to the Diaz/Nunez family, see our post here- http://teamtish.blogspot.com/2009/06/attention-building-collapse-on-myrtle.html
Andrew Schneider's donation information can be found here- http://greylockarts.net/andrews-home
Anh Nguyen's donation information can be found here- http://savemang.org/
Jess Banning's donation information can be found here- http://www.fundable.com/groupactions/groupaction.2009-06-22.8270203664
Our office has collaborated with the Myrtle Avenue Revilatization Project (MARP), a registered non-profit, to collect donations for all the 491 & 493 Myrtle Avenue residents. Donations will be evenly distributed to all families affected. If you are donating funds, please make checks/money orders out to MARP. Specify “491 & 493 Myrtle Emergency Fund” in the memo field-
472 Myrtle Avenue, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11205
A Tree Falls On Cambridge...Yikes!
A tree limb fell on Cambridge Place (where your blogger happens to reside), which we noticed last night around 9:00PM. The New York City Department of Parks & Recreation have been notified, and they should be out there as soon as possible. If you still see that thing hanging around, please call our office at (212) 788-7081.
Town Hall
Last night, Council Member Letitia James held a Town Hall to address infrastructure in Clinton Hill following the Myrtle Avenue building collapse at St. Luke's Church on Washington Avenue between Willoughby and DeKalb Avs. Representatives from City Agencies were present, and were able to speak about what's happening at this point, as well as how to report structure-damage that is potentially dangerous. There will be additional communication after the appropriate City agencies have completed the necessary investigations into these matters. You can see more on NY1's report here.
Infrastructure in a majority-historic district is always a concern, but we urge people not to be unduly alarmed by these events. Responsibility for the care of property lies with the property owner. We encourage renters to sign legal leases, and attain renters insurance when possible.
Donating Money/Items
Our office has the donation list that can be accessed on the Chez Lola website. If you have items or goods to donate, please complete the form on the website. We are sending this information to the displaced residents, who can follow-up on the items they are interested in. There was a similar list set-up for Anh Nguyen and Andrew Schneider here: http://itpedia.nyu.edu/wiki/Myrtle_Avenue_Collapse_Benefit_page. Unfortunately, there is no general place to hold your donated items at this time. The search for housing remains the main concern for displaced residents.
Additionally, we are strongly encouraging monetary donations. Here are some individual donation sites:
To donate to the Diaz/Nunez family, see our post here- http://teamtish.blogspot.com/2009/06/attention-building-collapse-on-myrtle.html
Andrew Schneider's donation information can be found here- http://greylockarts.net/andrews-home
Anh Nguyen's donation information can be found here- http://savemang.org/
Jess Banning's donation information can be found here- http://www.fundable.com/groupactions/groupaction.2009-06-22.8270203664
Our office has collaborated with the Myrtle Avenue Revilatization Project (MARP), a registered non-profit, to collect donations for all the 491 & 493 Myrtle Avenue residents. Donations will be evenly distributed to all families affected. If you are donating funds, please make checks/money orders out to MARP. Specify “491 & 493 Myrtle Emergency Fund” in the memo field-
472 Myrtle Avenue, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11205
A Tree Falls On Cambridge...Yikes!
A tree limb fell on Cambridge Place (where your blogger happens to reside), which we noticed last night around 9:00PM. The New York City Department of Parks & Recreation have been notified, and they should be out there as soon as possible. If you still see that thing hanging around, please call our office at (212) 788-7081.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Update: Following-up On Building Collapse on Myrtle Avenue/Fundraising & Donating Info
We have some important info concerning fundraising activities for the Myrtle Avenue displaced residents.
First of all, for all the wonderful residents who emailed us concerning Caitlyn Nunez, we were made aware yesterday that her principal was kind enough to offer to buy her graduation attire. The family is still collecting donations for their additional needs, and again that information can be found here. As spotted on the NYT- Local blog, a local resident noted the various individual fundraising/donation activities planned for displaced residents in the community, so please check that out.
This community has really shown an incredible amount of support towards our neighbors, and we ask that you join our office and community this Sunday:
Let’s Lend a Heart & Helping Hand
To 491 & 493 Myrtle Avenue…
SUNDAY, June, 28 2009
5PM – 7PM
Chez Lola
387 Myrtle Avenue (by Vanderbilt)
Fort Greene, Brooklyn
Chez Lola will be hosting a fundraiser for the tenants of 491 and 493 Myrtle Avenue.
If you have services to provide, clothes to spare, furniture that is collecting dust, come on by to Chez Lola on Sunday and let us know. Please do not bring it. We can take down your contact info and approximate location and help coordinate the transfer of goods. You can also go online to www.bistrolola.com as of Thursday (June 25, 2009) to post any services/materials you'd like to provide.
The Office of Council Member James will be assisting Chez Lola in these activities, and will be on-hand at this Sunday's event.
Chez Lola will be serving light food and refreshments.
Please bring your check book, wallet, donating spirit and helpful hand to give our neighbors get their lives back together!
Please make checks/money orders out to Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project.
Specify “491 & 493 Myrtle emergency fund” in the memo field. MARP has offered to temporarily hold your donations until they can be disbursed to the affected tenants.
For more information concerning the event and fundraising, please call at 718-858-1484 and ask for Edit.
Team Tish can be reached for any other purposes at teamtish@gmail.com
First of all, for all the wonderful residents who emailed us concerning Caitlyn Nunez, we were made aware yesterday that her principal was kind enough to offer to buy her graduation attire. The family is still collecting donations for their additional needs, and again that information can be found here. As spotted on the NYT- Local blog, a local resident noted the various individual fundraising/donation activities planned for displaced residents in the community, so please check that out.
This community has really shown an incredible amount of support towards our neighbors, and we ask that you join our office and community this Sunday:
Let’s Lend a Heart & Helping Hand
To 491 & 493 Myrtle Avenue…
SUNDAY, June, 28 2009
5PM – 7PM
Chez Lola
387 Myrtle Avenue (by Vanderbilt)
Fort Greene, Brooklyn
Chez Lola will be hosting a fundraiser for the tenants of 491 and 493 Myrtle Avenue.
If you have services to provide, clothes to spare, furniture that is collecting dust, come on by to Chez Lola on Sunday and let us know. Please do not bring it. We can take down your contact info and approximate location and help coordinate the transfer of goods. You can also go online to www.bistrolola.com as of Thursday (June 25, 2009) to post any services/materials you'd like to provide.
The Office of Council Member James will be assisting Chez Lola in these activities, and will be on-hand at this Sunday's event.
Chez Lola will be serving light food and refreshments.
Please bring your check book, wallet, donating spirit and helpful hand to give our neighbors get their lives back together!
Please make checks/money orders out to Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project.
Specify “491 & 493 Myrtle emergency fund” in the memo field. MARP has offered to temporarily hold your donations until they can be disbursed to the affected tenants.
For more information concerning the event and fundraising, please call at 718-858-1484 and ask for Edit.
Team Tish can be reached for any other purposes at teamtish@gmail.com
Update: Building Collapse on Myrtle Avenue
We are saddened to give an unfortunate update on Sunday's building collapse. As of yesterday evening, the residential building next door to the collapsed building- 491 Myrtle- was being demolished floor by floor. Apparently, this demolition continued as of this morning. The Department of Buildings and other City agencies have communicated to local business owners that all businesses on the north side of Myrtle must continue to stay vacated until this process is completed. From what we have been told, residents in most of the buildings on the block have been allowed to return for now.
Update:
As of yesterday evening, Myrtle Avenue from Hall to Emerson will remain closed for 3-4 days as debris is removed.
Our office is currently looking into the possibility of holding a fundraiser for victims. If you are interested in assisting, please email teamtish@gmail.com.
teamtish
Update:
As of yesterday evening, Myrtle Avenue from Hall to Emerson will remain closed for 3-4 days as debris is removed.
Our office is currently looking into the possibility of holding a fundraiser for victims. If you are interested in assisting, please email teamtish@gmail.com.
teamtish
Friday, May 22, 2009
A Message from Council Member Letitia James
The following is a letter Council Member James sent to CUNY affiliates who contacted her concerning the CUNY budget.
Dear New York City Resident:
Each year, the City University of New York (CUNY) enrolls more than 450,000 students City-wide within eleven senior colleges, six community colleges, the William E. Macaulay Honors College, the Graduate School and University Center, the CUNY Graduate School of Journalism, the CUNY School of Law, the CUNY School of Professional Studies and the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education- equaling almost half of all college or university students in the City of New York.
In the past, CUNY has had to make difficult financial and academic decisions in order to continue to provide higher educational opportunities. Prior to the 1970’s, a CUNY education was free to New York City students, a system referred to as ‘open admissions’. Under open admissions, Black and Latino attendance rates grew substantially. Facing a fiscal crisis, the CUNY system began imposing tuition fees on students. By the 2000’s, to meet the still-evolving academic standards of today’s working world, CUNY raised admission standards following reports that students in the four-year colleges were not meeting competitive standards. Throughout these changes, the University has remained true to its legacy of providing low and mid-income individuals with quality educational opportunities.
Today, CUNY enrollment is at its highest level since 1975, a 4.8% increase over 2008. The Macaulay Honors College, which graduated its first class in 2005, is currently serving 1,300 high-achieving students. Students admitted to the program had an average SAT score of 1400. A Macaulay student was one of the 32 Americans awarded a 2009 Rhodes Scholarship (CUNY’s third Rhodes student in five years). Additionally, many of CUNY’s senior colleges are recognized as some of the most rigorous in the country.
However, with the current fiscal crisis now affecting our national and local governments, the University is facing budget cuts that could potentially weaken its structure and operations as well as hinder the education of students who attend it. CUNY has sustained $82 million in reductions in City and State support in the current year alone. According to a statement issued by the Office of the Chancellor, “The State Executive Budget recommends $1.9 billion for CUNY’s senior colleges, reflecting a decrease of state support of almost $65 million, offset by more than $115 million from additional tuition and fee revenue. This revenue is based on tuition rate increases of 15 percent, or $300 per semester, for resident full-time undergraduate students and 20 percent for graduate students…The Executive Budget proposes a $20-million University-wide reduction to [our] senior colleges in non-core activities and a reduction on community-college base aid per full-time equivalent (FTE) by $270 for the current year that would continue into FY2009-2010. For CUNY, this equates to about $4 million in the current year and $18 million in 2009-10.”
Fiscal year 2009-2010 represents year four of CUNY’s innovative multi-year financing approach- called the CUNY Compact. This strategy offers an economically efficient way to finance CUNY by delineating shared responsibility among partners and creating opportunities to leverage funds. To integrate Governor Paterson’s proposed budget policies, CUNY Compact has been adapted for the fiscal year. CUNY is requesting the implementation of a State and City Philanthropy Matching Program in which three dollars in public funds are provided for every dollar the University raises through philanthropic sources.
The effects of such a program would help insure that no CUNY student would be denied the ability to continue their studies as a result of the proposed tuition increase, and establish a new student financial assistance program. The FY2010 College Investment Program totals $90.6M and includes:
• $38.0M for academic and faculty support;
• $26.0M for improved student services;
• $5.3M for upgrading infrastructure.
Capital priorities, which include critical maintenance of properties and the Decade of Science initiative (which focuses on expanding research opportunities in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields), incorporate green standards of development and would create local job opportunities.
In the interest of promoting the continued success of CUNY, ideally, the New York City Council should take a stand to reject the City cuts that force CUNY to adopt a budget model that includes any tuition increases, including the $36.3M in cuts to CUNY's operating budget, and $4.3M in reductions in City Council-sponsored programs for CUNY students. However, if we cannot do that, it is imperative that we support CUNY’s Compact budget request plan, which includes a Philanthropic Matching Program that limits those tuition increases and allows CUNY to restore their programs.
I believe that together we can ensure low and mid-income individuals continue to receive quality education at CUNY institutions. I join you in requesting CUNY's budgetary needs be met.
Sincerely,
Letitia James
Member of the City Council
Dear New York City Resident:
Each year, the City University of New York (CUNY) enrolls more than 450,000 students City-wide within eleven senior colleges, six community colleges, the William E. Macaulay Honors College, the Graduate School and University Center, the CUNY Graduate School of Journalism, the CUNY School of Law, the CUNY School of Professional Studies and the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education- equaling almost half of all college or university students in the City of New York.
In the past, CUNY has had to make difficult financial and academic decisions in order to continue to provide higher educational opportunities. Prior to the 1970’s, a CUNY education was free to New York City students, a system referred to as ‘open admissions’. Under open admissions, Black and Latino attendance rates grew substantially. Facing a fiscal crisis, the CUNY system began imposing tuition fees on students. By the 2000’s, to meet the still-evolving academic standards of today’s working world, CUNY raised admission standards following reports that students in the four-year colleges were not meeting competitive standards. Throughout these changes, the University has remained true to its legacy of providing low and mid-income individuals with quality educational opportunities.
Today, CUNY enrollment is at its highest level since 1975, a 4.8% increase over 2008. The Macaulay Honors College, which graduated its first class in 2005, is currently serving 1,300 high-achieving students. Students admitted to the program had an average SAT score of 1400. A Macaulay student was one of the 32 Americans awarded a 2009 Rhodes Scholarship (CUNY’s third Rhodes student in five years). Additionally, many of CUNY’s senior colleges are recognized as some of the most rigorous in the country.
However, with the current fiscal crisis now affecting our national and local governments, the University is facing budget cuts that could potentially weaken its structure and operations as well as hinder the education of students who attend it. CUNY has sustained $82 million in reductions in City and State support in the current year alone. According to a statement issued by the Office of the Chancellor, “The State Executive Budget recommends $1.9 billion for CUNY’s senior colleges, reflecting a decrease of state support of almost $65 million, offset by more than $115 million from additional tuition and fee revenue. This revenue is based on tuition rate increases of 15 percent, or $300 per semester, for resident full-time undergraduate students and 20 percent for graduate students…The Executive Budget proposes a $20-million University-wide reduction to [our] senior colleges in non-core activities and a reduction on community-college base aid per full-time equivalent (FTE) by $270 for the current year that would continue into FY2009-2010. For CUNY, this equates to about $4 million in the current year and $18 million in 2009-10.”
Fiscal year 2009-2010 represents year four of CUNY’s innovative multi-year financing approach- called the CUNY Compact. This strategy offers an economically efficient way to finance CUNY by delineating shared responsibility among partners and creating opportunities to leverage funds. To integrate Governor Paterson’s proposed budget policies, CUNY Compact has been adapted for the fiscal year. CUNY is requesting the implementation of a State and City Philanthropy Matching Program in which three dollars in public funds are provided for every dollar the University raises through philanthropic sources.
The effects of such a program would help insure that no CUNY student would be denied the ability to continue their studies as a result of the proposed tuition increase, and establish a new student financial assistance program. The FY2010 College Investment Program totals $90.6M and includes:
• $38.0M for academic and faculty support;
• $26.0M for improved student services;
• $5.3M for upgrading infrastructure.
Capital priorities, which include critical maintenance of properties and the Decade of Science initiative (which focuses on expanding research opportunities in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields), incorporate green standards of development and would create local job opportunities.
In the interest of promoting the continued success of CUNY, ideally, the New York City Council should take a stand to reject the City cuts that force CUNY to adopt a budget model that includes any tuition increases, including the $36.3M in cuts to CUNY's operating budget, and $4.3M in reductions in City Council-sponsored programs for CUNY students. However, if we cannot do that, it is imperative that we support CUNY’s Compact budget request plan, which includes a Philanthropic Matching Program that limits those tuition increases and allows CUNY to restore their programs.
I believe that together we can ensure low and mid-income individuals continue to receive quality education at CUNY institutions. I join you in requesting CUNY's budgetary needs be met.
Sincerely,
Letitia James
Member of the City Council
Thursday, February 19, 2009
CM James Guest Auctioneer at Bachelor/Silent Art Auction, 2/28, 6:30PM

Council Member Letitia James has gladly agreed to serve as the Guest Auctioneer at the Bedford Central Community Development Corp. Auction Fundraiser on Saturday, February 28, 2009. The Bedford Central Community Development (BCCD) Corp. conducts financial literacy seminars and economic development initiatives. BCCD has teamed with the Home Services for the Elderly in their mission to assess the needs of the elderly, and provide them with much-needed assistance and case management. In this collaborative effort, and along with generous sponsors, BCCD strives to make this unique event a tremendous success.
The event is a Bachelor Auction and Silent Art Auction on Saturday February 28, 2009.
6:30pm-9:00pm
Tickets: $10.00
The Spann Jones Fellowship Hall
(Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church)
760 DeKalb Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11216
For ticket information, contact: Wayne Devonish, 917-297-2365
For more information, see here: http://www.fundraiserauction2009.blogspot.com/
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)