LIBRARIES OPEN MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY ONLY

Update to "Library Hours Cut in City Budget":

Our City Councilmember Brad Lander reports that "Public libraries will remain open, with 5-day service (I know, we really need some weekend time as well, which is the only time many families can get there)."

He also discusses other cuts that were made under the just-approved city budget as well as what was rescued from possible closure.

LIBRARY HOURS CUT IN CITY BUDGET

The New York City budget that the City Council approved today includes funding that will keep libraries open five days a week rather than the current six. The branches will announce which days they'll be open.

IF YOU HAVE AN OPINION ABOUT CULVER ESTATES

If you have an opinion or questions about

• the rezoning of Culver Estates,
• the city requirements that could get waived to allow it to be built,
• who will be eligible to have apartments set aside for them,
• how the lottery will be conducted,
• or any other concerns,

please attend the hearing on the second floor of Brooklyn Borough Hall at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 8th.

Brooklyn Borough Hall
209 Joralemon Street and Court Street
(718) 802-3900

Subways: Take the 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 to Borough Hall or the A, C, or F to Jay Street-Borough Hall, or the M, N, or R to Court Street.

GREENKIDS WORKSHOPS

Zoya Baker, an active member of the East 4th Street Community Garden, has partnered with the Friends of Greenwood Playground (FoGP) to bring KWT Greenwood GreenKids Workshops.

Below is the tentative schedule. FoGP is still finalizing one of the classes, so keep checking back on the FoGP website.

Tree Care
Trees in NYC have a hard life. Learn how to make them beautiful, happy, and healthy!
Saturday, 7/3/10 @ 10:00 a.m.

Potting Up Cuttings
Learn how to make new plants from pieces of old plants.
Sunday, 7/11/10 @ 10:00 a.m.

Composting
Learn how to turn your household waste into food for your garden.
Saturday, 7/17/10 @ 10:00 a.m.

Plant Parts
Every wonder why a plant has leaves, flowers, or seeds? Now is your chance to find out!
Saturday, 7/24/10 @ 10:00 a.m.

Solar Cooker
Saturday, 8/7/10 @ 10:00 a.m.

BANGLADESHI STREET FESTIVAL PHOTOS

Dave Clausen posted five festive photos of the Bangladeshi street festival on Flickr yesterday here, here, here, here, and here.

BRANCACCIO'S JULY 4TH DISCOUNT

Brancaccio's Food Shop will be selling all of its prepared foods at 20% off on the Fourth of July.

Store hours: Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Closed Tuesdays.

Brancaccio's Food Shop
3011 Fort Hamilton Parkway
between E. 2nd and E. 3rd streets
phone: (718) 435-1997
info@BrancacciosFoodShop.com (E-mail is checked nightly.)

website: http://brancacciosfoodshop.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=app_2915120374#!/pages/Brooklyn-NY/BRANCACCIOs-FOOD-SHOP/274075687167?ref=ts&ajaxpipe=1&__a=21

BANGLADESHI STREET FESTIVAL TOMORROW

Bangladeshi Street Festival
Sunday, June 27th, 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Tomorrow's 5th annual Bangladeshi Potho Mela Street Festival will feature entertainment, clothing, crafts, and food. Sponsored by the Church-McDonald (Bangladeshi) Business Association, the festival will take place on McDonald Avenue, between Church Avenue and Avenue C. Photos of last year's mela are on the website of The Brooklyn Voice.

PLAN YOUR ROUTE

Changes in bus and subway routes go into effect on Sunday. Check these out to find the best way to get where you're going:

new Brooklyn bus map
summary of Brooklyn bus route changes and restructurings
summary of Manhattan bus changes and restructurings

new F train timetable
new G train timetable
new timetables for all subway lines

Good luck!

BUZZ-A-RAMA: BROOKLYN'S ONLY SLOT CAR TRACK

View the delights of slot car racing in a 2009 video interview with Frank "Buzz" Perri, owner and operator of Buzz-A-Rama on Church Avenue near Dahill Road since 1965.

Buzz is the last man standing in the world of slot car racing in Brooklyn. A New York Times article, "Brooklyn’s Buzz-a-Rama Is Heaven for Slot-Car Fans," describes the game: "Slot cars, which drivers control with a hand-held throttle, go fast—some upward of 100 miles per hour—but getting them to that point demands slow, intensive, hands-on labor. Enthusiasts spend their free time taking the cars apart, tinkering with the motors, shaving down the tires for better balance and adjusting the gears."

Buzz-A-Rama
69 Church Avenue, near Dahill Road
(718) 853-1800 
http://www.buzz-a-rama.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=63461432648&v

Open Saturdays and Sundays from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

CAR BREAK-IN PERP SENTENCED

The Brooklyn Paper reports that the perpetrator of a car break-in--who was caught in the act by the commander of Park Slope's 78th Precinct and another police officer--has pleaded guilty and been sentenced to ninety days in jail.

After unsuccessfully attempting to find an unlocked car on E. 4th Street, the man stopped for a meal at Burger King on Fort Hamilton Parkway and Dahill Road. He then proceeded to its parking lot, where he found and entered an unlocked van. The officers, who had followed him from E. 4th Street, arrested him.

TWO BUSINESSES TO OPEN ON FORT HAMILTON PARKWAY

An Internet cafe with a computer repair shop in the back will be opening at 2907 Fort Hamilton Parkway, between E. 3rd and E. 4th streets. The storefront last housed former City Councilmember Bill de Blasio's office.

A yoga studio will be opening up at 2902 Fort Hamilton Parkway at the corner of E. 4th Street, where Ambassador Music was located. The yoga studio will open in about two months.

DANCE MUSIC BENEFIT FOR SEAN CASEY ANIMAL RESCUE

"Cause for the Paws"
Mega Dance Benefit Show
for Sean Casey Animal Rescue
on
Sunday, July 25th, from 12:00 noon to 7:00 p.m.

at
Brooklyn Mega Club F1
823 65th Street
Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

Organized by MC Richie Noodles, a volunteer dog walker who--with his wife, Elaine--adopted Kelly, an injured dog Sean had rescued. Richie explains why he organized this benefit:

Sean Casey Animal Rescue is located in the Kensington section of Brooklyn, NY. I reside a block away and volunteer to walk the dogs as much as I possibly can. They have a great staff and really give lots of love to all the animals which need it.

Elaine and I adopted our beautiful dog, Kelly, this past January. Kelly was struck by a truck in the Bronx in July, 2009 and Sean Casey took her and immediately brought her to the animal hospital across the street from us for about 2 months; they tried to save her back leg but couldn't so unfortunately, they amputated it.

She was then returned to Sean and stayed at the rescue for another 3 months until we made her part of our family. If it weren't for the generous donations the rescue receives, Sean wouldn't have been able to care for Kelly the way he and his staff did. They gave her love and nurtured her to bring her back from not only to better health but took the fear she suffered from her horrific accident. We thank them for introducing us to sweet Kelly who is loved by all of us at home. We couldn't imagine our daily life without her so this is why I would like to try and raise much needed funds for them.

These animals at Sean Casey need food, shelter, meds and other equipment/items. I have taken on the mission to organize a benefit and accepted the generosity of Dance/Freestyle artists to perform. DJ’s to spin and have other industry professionals help out any way they can. Some have committed to donating CD’s, posters, etc. along with their time to sing on behalf of Sean Casey Animal Rescue. I wanted to prove that the music industry cares!

So please come down and support SEAN CASEY ANIMAL RESCUE.

Advanced Tickets are on sale on the event website. Or call Richie Noodles at (347) 260-2878 to locate a ticket broker near you.

$20.00 gets you one admission plus a ticket in the raffles. You can purchase it through PayPal on the website. If you pay at the door, the cost is $25.00.

Sean will have a truck at the event from noon until around 3:00 p.m. where you can see some dogs and cats up for adoption.

IF YOU ADOPT A PET THAT DAY,
YOU WILL RECEIVE TWO FREE TICKETS TO THE EVENT WITH VIP TREATMENT.

IF YOU PURCHASE A TICKET AND DONATE $50.00+,
YOU WILL RECEIVE VIP STATUS: MEET AND GREET and PRIVATE SECTION.

Event Website: http://seancaseysanimalrescuebenifit2010.webs.com

NIA YOGA DEMONSTRATION

Free Nia Yoga Demonstration

Saturday, June 26th, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Learn about Nia Yoga at a free demonstration at Namaste Yoga Studio of Kensington.

Nia Yoga is a martial arts (Tai Chi style) infused yoga. Being gentle, it's suitable for people of all ages as well as those who are pregnant, have been previously injured, or have a limited range of motion.

Space is limited, and only a few spots remain. To reserve a space, e-mail your name and phone number to info@mynamasteyoga.com.

Namaste Yoga Studio of Kensington
482 Coney Island Avenue, 2nd Floor (The main entrance is on Church Avenue. Walk up the red staircase to the red door, behind the corner pizzeria and next to the car wash service center.)
(347) 533-6226
http://www.mynamasteyoga.com
info@mynamasteyoga.com

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT AGAINST CRIME

The flyer is difficult to read. To make it large enough to be readable, left-click on it to put it in a window by itself and then left-click on it again.

MEMBERS OF COMMUNITY BOARD 12

Community Board 12
5910 13th Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11219
(718) 851-0800

Chairperson: Alan J. Dubrow
District Manager: Wolf Sender

A community board has up to fifty volunteer members. The Borough President appoints all of the board members. City Council members nominate at least half of the appointees (divided proportionally based on the share of the district's population represented by each councilmember).

The New York City Councilmembers who currently represent Community District 12 are

• Sara Gonzalez (District 38)
• Brad Lander (District 39)
• David Greenfield (District 44)

 

Of the fifty Community Board 12 members listed below, Sara Gonzalez nominated the four members who have a (38) next to their name. Brad Lander or his predecessor, Bill de Blasio, nominated the ten with a (39) by their name. David Greenfield or his predecessor, Simcha Felder, nominated the eleven with a (44) by their name.

 

How many of the fifty board members live in Kensington?

Term expires March 31, 2012
1. Sandy Aboulafia
2. Sol Wahba (39)
3. Yakov Abramou (new member)
4. Margaret Tobin (39) (new member)
5. Jules Fleischer
6. Bernard Freilich
7. Edgar Gluck (39)
8. Tzvi Englard
9. Anna Cali (44) (new member)
10. Joseph Jacobs
11. Larry Jayson (39)
12. Lily Marinelli (38) (new member)
13. Mendel Reiner (44) (new member)
14. Douglas Jablon
15. Sharon Fuchs
16. Mordechai Katz (44)
17. Morton Pupko
18. Peter Rebenwurzel (44)
19. Mendel Zilberberg (new member)
20. Joel Eisdorfer (44)
21. Jacob Daskal (44)
22. Samuel Stober (39)
23. Stanley Sussman
24. Howard Klayman
25. Amy Sicignano (38)

Term expires March 31, 2011
1. Tamar Abraham (44)
2. Yeruchim Silber
3. Chaim Israel (39)
4. Fredrick Cassera (39)
5. Raymond Lee
6. Joan Pastore (38)
7. Alan Dubrow
8. Roberta Feinstein
9. Jacob Hass (39)
10. Jacque Friedman
11. Martin Katz
12. Abu Khalquzzam (39)
13. Tahir Bhutta (44)
14. Edward Handler
15. Lan Chen
16. John Moroni
17. Samuel Israel
18. Andrew Kohen (44)
19. Mordechai Schwartz (44)
20. David Shlomovich (44)
21. Elliot Rosman (38)
22. Morris Senderovic
23. Eli Oiring (39)
24. Moshe Wieder
25. Joshua Weinstein

CULVER EL REZONING IS APPROVED BY CB12

Community Board 12 voted tonight to approve the rezoning application for Culver Estates, shown in gray in the map above. Two board members voted against approving the application. Three other board members recused themselves from voting "because they have an interest" in the project.

The rezoning application includes a request for a zoning variance that would allow the seventeen four-story apartment buildings to be taller than existing residential buildings in the area. Current residences are typically one- and two-family detached or semi-detached homes of two or three stories. The area also has groups of row houses.

Another zoning variance that has been requested would exempt the project from the city's requirement for backyards.

Three parking lots with a total of forty-eight parking spaces would be built for the use of existing neighborhood community facilities.

The next step in the application review process is a hearing at Brooklyn Borough Hall on Thursday, July 8th.

For background information on this project, please read "Culver Estates: Timeline for Public Review."

SAVE OUR SCHOOLS--WRITE A LETTER OPPOSING THE BUDGET CUTS

Parents of public school children urgently need you to participate in a letter-writing campaign to prevent devastating budget cuts to our neighborhood schools. Please write to your state assemblymember, state senator, and the governor immediately and tell them to reconsider the budget cuts to schools.

The city budget is scheduled to pass THIS WEEK--but there is always a way to move money around within the budget before it gets passed.

Here are some easy steps you can take that could make a difference:

1. Call 311. Tell the operator that you do not approve of the budget cuts to public education. The mayor reviews these statistics regularly.
2. Copy the letter below (or write your own letter), and mail it to your state assemblymember, state senator, and the governor.
3. Make sure your local school is conducting a letter-writing campaign THIS WEEK.
4. Ask your neighbors to mail a letter. Letters and faxes carry the MOST weight with elected officials. Phone calls carry less weight. E-mails carry the least weight.

Below is a sample letter and the addresses of our local officials. To find out if your State Senator is Eric Adams (20th Senate District) or Kevin Parker (21st Senate District, see the map of Senator Adams' district and the map of Senator Parker's district.

SAMPLE LETTER

June 21, 2010

Recent announcements to cut school-based budgets by 4% or more (approximately $300 million) will devastate and destabilize our public school system. These cuts are in addition to prior budget cuts to New York City's public schools that amounted to an additional 8% since January 2008 (approximately $600 million).

Teachers, parents, and concerned New Yorkers urge you to reconsider the school-based cuts and review the central administrative spending more closely, specifically the proposed spending on new positions at the Department of Education headquarters; private, no-bid contracts; standardized testing; accountability measures that don’t provide accurate results; and new teacher recruitment.

Please do not take more money from our classrooms. This will lead to larger class sizes, elimination of course offerings, and fewer enrichment programs in our schools.

I strongly urge you to reconsider the target of your cuts and spending. Find other alternatives. Protect our public schools and public school teachers and the strength of our local communities.

Do not play politics with our children.
Make education your priority.
Fully fund our public schools.

Yours truly,

ADDRESSES AND OTHER CONTACT INFORMATION

State Senator Eric Adams
572 Flatbush Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11225
Phone: (718) 284-4700
Fax: (718) 282-3585

OR

State Senator Kevin Parker
1300 Flatbush Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11210
Phone: (718) 629-6401
Fax: (718) 629-6420

Assemblymember James F. Brennan
416 Seventh Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Phone: (718) 940-0641

Governor David A. Paterson
Phone: (518) 474-8390
Email: fill out the form at
http://www.state.ny.us/governor/contact/GovernorContactForm.php

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg
City Hall
New York, NY 10007
Fax: (212) 312-0700

Please help!

PETIT LARCENY ARREST

From the New York Post:

A top-ranked borough commander caught a petty crook red-handed after the suspect broke into a van in Kensington, authorities said.

Angel Plaza, 45, was jiggling door handles of parked cars along Caton Avenue near East Fourth Street at 10:30 a.m. Monday when Deputy Inspector John Argenziano, commanding officer of the 78th Precinct, spotted him, sources said.

The commander, on patrol in an unmarked car, followed Plaza to Fort Hamilton Parkway and Dahill Road, where the suspect climbed into a van, sources said.

Argenziano and Lt. Michael Fargo grabbed the crook climbing out of the vehicle in possession of a stolen GPS, authorities said.

He was charged with petit larceny, said a spokesman for DA Charles Hynes.

20% DISCOUNT AT BRANCACCIO'S TOMORROW

Tomorrow, Brancaccio's Food Shop is selling all prepared foods for 20% off. Pick up some delicious, lovingly-prepared food on your way to the free jazz concert at the E. 4th Street Community Garden!

Brancaccio's Food Shop
3011 Fort Hamilton Parkway
between E. 2nd and E. 3rd streets

phone: (718) 435-1997
info@BrancacciosFoodShop.com (E-mail is checked nightly.)

website: http://brancacciosfoodshop.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=app_2915120374#!/pages/Brooklyn-NY/BRANCACCIOs-FOOD-SHOP/274075687167?ref=ts&ajaxpipe=1&__a=21

SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES!

HAMILTON DOG HOUSE ANNUAL SUMMER CELEBRATION AND ADOPTION EVENT

Hamilton Dog House
Annual Summer Celebration and Adoption Event
Saturday, July 17th, noon to 5:00 p.m.

Food! Games! Prizes!

Kid's games, dog contests, and BBQing!

All proceeds will benefit the Sean Casey Animal Rescue.
Please support the work done by
this wonderful group of people.

The Hamilton Dog House
155 E. 3rd Street (between Caton Avenue and Fort Hamilton Parkway)
(718) 436-PETS (7387)
info@thehamiltondoghouse.com
http://thehamiltondoghouse.com

SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES!

FREE POETRY READING

Poetry Reading

Monday, June 21st, 7:00 p.m.

Enjoy the outdoors on the longest day of the year with readings by four poets: Pamela Grossman, Boni Joi, Michael Solomon, and Joe Maynard.

Pamela Grossman's poetry has been published in numerous journals and in the anthology Women. Period. She is also a journalist whose work has been published in The Village Voice, Ms., and Salon.com.

Boni Joi has twice been nominated for a Pushcart Prize. Her poems have appeared in Arabella, Big Hammer, Mind Gorilla, The Brooklyn Rail, and many other journals.

Joe Maynard is a writer and editor and the publisher of Beet and Pink Pages.

Bring a picnic dinner, if you like, and a blanket. Children and dogs are welcome.

The readings will be at the East 4th Street Community Garden, between Caton Avenue and Fort Hamilton Parkway.

FREE JAZZ CONCERT

Sunday, June 20th, 3:00 p.m.

Jazz Concert

East 5th Street's own Vinnie Sperezza and his pals will serenade you and the summer solstice with ballads that harmonize with the garden in unexpected ways. Bring a picnic lunch, if you like, and a blanket. Children and dogs are welcome.

The concert will be at the East 4th Street Community Garden, between Caton Avenue and Fort Hamilton Parkway.

MONTH-LONG SALE AT RICH FROG TOYS

Rich Frog Toys' 25% off sale will continue through the end of June. Every item in the store is on sale.

• Assorted High-Quality Toys (Wooden Toys, Stuffed Animals, Educational Toys, Games & Puzzles, Dolls, Collectible Vehicles, Math-Skill-Based Toys)
• Books
  
• Bicycles and Tricycles
• Children's Jewelry (Charms, Bracelets, Necklaces)
• Children's Room Decor
• Furniture
• Strollers
• Children's Wear
• School Items
• Party Favors
• Hair Accessories

ALL 25% OFF!

Alexa Sokolov, the store's owner, will be happy to expertly guide you through the hundreds of items that she stocks.

Rich Frog Toys
"Where children learn to use their imagination"
Educational Toys for Boys and Girls
211 Church Avenue, between E. 2nd and E. 3rd streets
(866) 371-1858
http://www.richfrogtoys.com

SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES!

QUESTIONING THE SANITATION DEPARTMENT

Albemarle Neighborhood Association
Thursday, June 24th, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

HOW OFTEN are the corner litter baskets emptied?

WHY are the baskets full again the day after they're emptied?

WHY doesn't Kensington have more of those litter baskets with the narrow openings that are designed to prevent people from putting their household or commercial garbage in them?

WHY aren't there enough litter baskets near schools and bus stops?

WHY has there been more litter than usual on the sidewalks?


These are just a few of the questions we might want to ask the NYC Department of Sanitation representative at next week's meeting of the Albemarle Neighborhood Association.

Your presence at the meeting is important. The meeting is open to everyone, whether you're a member of ANA or not. Please go and voice your concerns.

The meeting is free of charge. Foodtown and ANA will offer refreshments.

Meeting location: outdoors on Albemarle Road between E. 4th and E. 5th streets.

Location in case of rain: Flatbush & Shaare Torah Jewish Center, 327 E. 5th Street, corner of Church Avenue. Enter through the wheelchair-accessible entrance at street level.

RECYCLE YOUR ELECTRONICS THIS WEEKEND

Electronics Recycling
Saturday, June 19th, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

An electronics recycling site will be provided by eRevival on Reeve Place at E. 7th Street, one block from Prospect Avenue. Drop-offs will be accepted by local residents; eRevival will pick them up in the late afternoon.

Disposal is free except for TVs, which require a $10.00 disposal fee.

You can also have your old hard drive shredded for $10.00.

FREE DIABETES EDUCATION AND TESTING

Diabetes Education and Testing
Saturday, July 3rd,
10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
and
Sunday, July 4th through Thursday, July 7th,
9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Diabetes is one of the most dreadful killer diseases in the U.S. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential. To assist the Kensington community, the pharmacists at Kensington Pharmacy (and/or a nurse) will help you test your blood sugar level and teach you about treating diabetes. Learn about diet, sugar control, Type I and Type II diabetes, and how diabetes and high blood pressure are linked. They will also tell you how to get a free glucose testing machine. The event will be held on the sidewalk in front of the store.

Kensington Pharmacy
309 Church Avenue, between E. 3rd and E. 4th streets, in the back of MF Discount
Open Sunday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Phone: (347) 533-6619
Fax: (347) 533-6618
E-mail: ruben@mrbrklyn.com
Website: http://www.kensingtonpharm.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=110297515659712&v=wall

SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES!

BRANCACCIO'S DELIVERS

Brancaccio's Food Shop now has delivery service from noon to 7:00 p.m.! To find out what's available, look on their blog for each day's menu, the sandwich menu, and the lists of baked goods, beverages, and groceries.

All credit cards are accepted.

Brancaccio's Food Shop
3011 Fort Hamilton Parkway
between E. 2nd and E. 3rd streets

phone: (718) 435-1997
info@BrancacciosFoodShop.com (E-mail is checked nightly.)

website: http://brancacciosfoodshop.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=app_2915120374#!/pages/Brooklyn-NY/BRANCACCIOs-FOOD-SHOP/274075687167?ref=ts&ajaxpipe=1&__a=21

SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES!

RAINBOW MOVING

Rainbow Photo and Rainbow Travel and Insurance will be moving out of 466 McDonald Avenue on Monday, June 21st, and moving in with Parkway Realty NY, located at 3001 Fort Hamilton Parkway at the corner of E. 3rd Street.

DANNY KALB TRIO PLAYS AT GREEN-WOOD CEMETERY TOMORROW

Danny Kalb Trio
Sunday, June 13th, 7:00 p.m.

Danny Kalb, a founding member of the Blues Project and a session player with Phil Ochs, Judy Collins, and Pete Seeger, will be performing with the Danny Kalb Trio at Green-wood Cemetery in a benefit concert for the non-profit Green-Wood Historic Fund. The group will be playing the blues at the Cemetery’s Historic Chapel (inside the main entrance at 5th Avenue at 25th Street). Refreshments will be available during the concert.

Tickets cost $15.00 for Historic Fund Members and $20.00 for non-members. You can purchase tickets in advance online. Use your membership coupon code to receive the $15.00 member price at check out. Please note that space is limited.

Get in the mood for the concert by listening to the Danny Kalb Trio on YouTube.

OVERFLOWING LITTER BASKETS

The public litter baskets on the street corners are overflowing. To report them to the Department of Sanitation, fill out the online form or call 311. You can report it anonymously or you can provide your name, phone number, and e-mail address.

For information about requesting additional litter baskets, see "Wanted: More Public Litter Baskets."

WHAT IS KENSINGTON ACTION FORCE?

Kensington Action Force (KAF), founded in 1991, is a community safety organization that helps Kensington residents combat crime and violence.

At general community meetings and committee group meetings, residents have the opportunity to discuss issues and concerns with the Police Department, Mayor's Office, District Attorney's Office, city agencies, Community Board, and elected officials.

KAF's special programs and crime prevention initiatives include

• "Making Good Kids Better Citizens," a program that educates students in grades five and up on how to get involved in community safety issues;
• community-wide graffiti cleanups;
• "Shoot a Trespasser" (with a camera);
• "insurance premium reduction," which advocates insurance premium reductions for homeowners or residents who live in a community with an involved community crime prevention effort;
  
• sports league.

At KAF's inter-community leadership conferences, residents meet with other people who are involved in organized anti-crime efforts, and everyone shares their expertise with each other.

KAF maintains updated contact lists that help KAF members communicate with the appropriate public officials so that they will address and correct community-related problems.

KAF also monitors court cases.

Meetings are held in March and November at Intermediate School 62 (Ditmas Junior High School). The school is at 700 E. 7th Street, between Ditmas Avenue and Cortelyou Road.

KAF is interested in receiving e-mail from residents who have questions about community safety. If you have previously raised the issue with any public authorities, include any information or correspondence that you may have.

KAF is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

phone: (718) 941-5500
fax: (718) 941-5500
e-mail: KAForce [at] gmail.com

CB12: MINUTES OF MAY MEETING AND JUNE AGENDA

June 7th, 2010

TO: COMMUNITY BOARD 12 MEMBERS/INTERESTED PARTIES
FROM: ALAN J. DUBROW, CHAIRMAN
RE: JUNE BOARD MEETING
___________________________________________

Please be advised that a Reception and the regularly scheduled meeting of Community Board 12 will be held on:

TUESDAY, JUNE 22th, 2010
6:00 p.m.
RECEPTION (Supper Meal)

7:00 p.m.
REGULARLY SCHEDULED BOARD MEETING
at
THE AMICO SENIOR CENTER
5901 – 13TH AVENUE (Entrance on 59th Street – 3rd Floor)

AGENDA

1. PUBLIC SESSION
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ADOPTION OF MINUTES
4. CHAIRMAN’S REMARKS-- ALAN J. DUBROW
5. DISTRICT MANAGER’S REPORT -- WOLF SENDER
6. PRESENTATION OF PLAQUES TO FIRE, POLICE, SANITATION PERSONNEL AND VARIOUS COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS
7. VARIANCE COMMITTEE REPORT—PETER REBENWURZEL
ULURP APPLICATIONS FOR CULVER EL PROJECTS
37th St. / 38th St. --- 12th to 14th AVENUES
8. OLD BUSINESS
9. NEW BUSINESS
10. ADJOURN

==================================================

SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY BOARD 12 MEETING
HELD TUESDAY, MAY 25th, 2010
AT COMMUNITY BOARD 12, 5910 – 13TH AVE.
BROOKLYN, N.Y. – 7 PM
____________________________________________

PUBLIC SESSION
Angela Stornaiuolo, Boro Park resident, spoke on the concerns of various residents regarding the recent street closure of McDonald Ave. from Church Ave. to Albemarle Road. This is a predominantly residential block, with a Post Office, a school, and Foodtown, where a very large Bangladeshi festival was held. Residents were led to believe the required signatures were in place; however, according to Ms. Stornaiuolo, 17 of the 19 home owners were against this event, as well as all 10 businesses affected when their customers could not park. Foodtown also lost much business because no one could get down the block. Flyers posted in the area predicted 30,000 attendees, although while no accurate numbers were recorded, residents estimate thousands of people were there.

Larry Jayson spoke on the question of whether this was the same event which was usually held 1 block over with no problem. He empathized, stating he was aware that residents spent the day refusing festival goers use of the facilities in their homes. Mr. Jayson also suggested it would make more sense that if 2 blocks were needed, to use McDonald between Ave C and Cortelyou Rd., where there are only a few businesses. Residents agreed, stating they wanted to avoid a repeat of this next year, and that another concern was not enough prior notice. Inspector Sprague assured all that it would be cut down to one block next year. More discussion followed.

Joseph Nathan spoke once again about the still-occurring issue of Sanitation workers washing trucks on the sidewalks with no regard to passersby. He feels the Community Board should requisition from Sanitation some sort of extension for those trucks, so as not to interfere with the public. Mr. Nathan also suggests, after recent visits to Maimonides, as well as his own research, that something can be done to improve conditions such as “triple docking”, referring to beds pushed out of rooms due to lack of space. The hospital owns 90 – 100% of the property on 48th Street between 9th & 10th Avenues, including parking lots and other buildings. Mr. Nathan feels they should tear down some buildings and think of the community by adding 700-bed facilities. Another problem experienced by Mr. Nathan is being awakened at 3:00 in the morning to the loud sounds of NY City Marshals towing cars. This is noisy and shouldn’t be done at such a time, waking up children in the middle of the night.

Joe Russo, concerned resident, once again addressed the community on the topic of water, real estate and electric bills being raised. He was quite disappointed at the lack of support during the public hearings he announced last month, and reminded people that when rates go up, they should remember that they might have had an impact against it.

Newly elected Councilman David Greenfield supported Mr. Russo’s concerns, saying there are limits to even what elected officials can do. He also updated all on a January application to turn a two-family residence into a bank, located at 48th St. and 18th Ave. The block in question is a completely residential area, and although the Community Board and Zoning Committee unanimously voted against it, City Planning approved it. Councilman Greenfield was pleased to announce that, in his commitment to serve this area, he fought against these plans and the City Council accepted his proposal, unanimously rejected the re-zoning.

Councilman Greenfield also announced that Councilman Lander and he fought the preliminary cuts to the Community Board, and the Mayor’s office has now restored those cuts. They also discussed the commitment that goes with an appointment to any Community Board, which should be taken seriously. He mentioned some “spotty” attendance records regarding Board meetings, mentioning that regardless of anyone’s recommendations, the Borough President makes some of the appointments. One of the top criteria is attendance, so all should be aware of their attendance records and expect a turnover for the new 2 year cycle. The Councilman also took this time to thank all who have and will serve.

The Councilman also brought up budget season, and said he is working with Councilman Landers on priority issues, including community groups, daycare & Priority 7 vouchers, and parks improvement.

Finally, Councilman Greenfield announced his extended office hours as follows:
Monday - Wednesday; 9AM to 6PM; Thursdays Noon to 5PM; and Fridays 9AM to 3PM. The phone number is: 718-853-2704 Location: 45th St. & 16th Ave., 2nd floor (Georgie Bldg).

Responding to Councilman Greenfield’s remarks, Board member Sandy Aboulafia stressed that aside from missing Board meetings, some members are missing Committee meetings, making it impossible to reach quorum and vote on issues.

Board Member Yussie Rieder brought up an issue regarding a large group of boys outside the Community Board office during the meeting, on bicycles with no helmets. He requested some enforcement regarding skateboards, bikes, scooters, etc, for the safety of the kids. Inspector Sprague responded by stating that he had, in fact spoken to those boys and openly commended the only one of them who was wearing a helmet, holding him up as an example. The NYPD is constantly working on this issue and encouraging parents and kids alike to take it seriously.

Board Member Dr. Joan Pastore asked about cuts to the Department for the Aging, which directly affects the Amico Senior Center she directs. Councilman Greenfield responded that no cuts are scheduled for Community Board 12, but overall cuts could still affect the area. He agreed that children and seniors are certainly priorities in terms of fighting against cuts. Whether or not we get hit, we will still strongly advocate for these groups as well as other priorities.

Board Member Jacque Friedman brought up the issue of bicycle riding on sidewalks. He asked if the Police Department had age limits, Inspector Sprague responded that there is no law regarding bicycles on sidewalks, but discretion is needed when referring to a toddler on a bike. Mr. Friedman was concerned about complaints from people being knocked down and that the word should be spread better

Councilman Greenfield thanked all volunteers who have served this year, as well as the residents who come out to meetings and stay civicly engaged. He also thanked our newest volunteers; the kids on bikes who came into the meeting, bringing attention to a serious matter.

Bridget Elder, community resident, spoke about the issue of a proposal for “Banglatown”, being unsure of how the process works. Mr. Dubrow advised her that this matter, as any other, will go before the Transportation Committee, who will meet to discuss the issues and vote on their recommendation; then bring it to the Board for a full vote.

Mr. Dubrow announced that the Representative from the Boro President’s Office, Mr. Avi Siegel, was here to present some 100% perfect attendance certificates to Morris Senderovic, Martin Katz, Elliot Rosman, Jacque Friedman, Alan Dubrow, Zvi Englard, Jacob Daskal, and Rabbi Shlomo Braun.

Mr. Dubrow also introduced Mr. Warren Cohen, representing Congressman Edolphus Towns. Mr. Cohen announced that on June 7th at St. Francis College, there will be an event to increase attendance at a military academy. The event will take place from 6 – 8 PM at Saint Francis College; 180 Remsen Street, Brooklyn.

Pinny Ringel, representing Public Advocate Bill DeBlasio, also responded to questions about the previously mentioned Priority 7 vouchers, which have to do with the money schools get for after school programs, according to parental income. He asked that people sign an online petition at www.advocate.nyc.gov.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ADOPTION OF MINUTES
There were two corrections to be made in April’s Minutes. State Assemblyman Dov Hikind’s name was inadvertently spelled “Doc”. Roberta Feinstein was marked absent when she was present. The corrections were duly noted and April’s Minutes accepted.

CHAIRMAN’S REMARKS
ALAN J. DUBROW
Mr. Dubrow announced that our District Manager, Wolf Sender, was unfortunately called away on family business, but sends his regrets. However, Mr. Dubrow recognized the presence of his retired Assistant District Manager, Karol Joswick. Karol is now a consultant to the Board and works two days a week, so she is still familiar with all that is going on.

Mr. Dubrow also announced that at the next Board meeting, (June 22nd, which will be the last meeting before summer) plaques will be awarded to Police, Fire and Sanitation officials, as well as to local organizations, that have been very helpful in making the Passover holiday the best ever, in terms of safety for this community. There will also be light refreshments.

Mr. Dubrow also announced and congratulated both Jacob Daskal and Sandy Aboulafia, Board members, on the engagements of each of their sons.

TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE REPORT
DAVID SHLOMOVICH
The Committee received two requests to rename corners. However, the requests came in too late for the committee to meet, so he brought it to the full Board. Chaim Israel reminded all that specific criteria were set forth for such requests, so it was unanimously agreed that a public hearing should be held for both requests.

Finally, Inspector Sprague once took this opportunity to remind all what a good example in civic action it was to have children inside, learning and observing the meeting, especially since their safety was being discussed. He felt it was like a class trip and should be a regular thing. He also announced a bike registration being held on June 13th, at 478 Caton, starting at noon.

XO Capt. Carter also brought onto the floor the 2 children wearing helmets to be recognized as examples by all and show how important their safety is.

Crime statistics were reviewed, and while there has been a 3.5% reduction in crime overall, robberies and burglaries are up, on and off. On average, it has been low in all areas, but there have been zero murders so far this year. All were reminded that the major cause of home invasion is unsecured doors or windows, and that over half could be prevented. Also, if one should discover a burglary, DO NOT touch anything, as DNA evidence can be very helpful to the police, and it’s very hard for a perpetrator NOT to leave DNA. Again, please do not try to go through belongings looking for what’s missing. Lastly, with the summer coming, all were reminded to be aware of children outside running around on foot or bike, etc.

It was also suggested by Sandy Aboulafia that the police address and enforce the car “No Phone Zone” as well as “No Texting”. These cause many auto accidents and are not necessary, as people can just as easily pull over for an important message. Inspector Sprague asked everyone to please remember that this is a zero tolerance situation. Lastly, he gave the e-mail address for those who want to join the “events e-mail list” for 66th Pct. community events: 66pctnypd@gmail.com.

Meeting adjourned. Respectfully submitted,

ADY MATTEO
Community Service Aide

SOHO CAFE & GRILL STILL BEING REMODELED

Soho Cafe & Grill (215 Church Avenue, between E. 2nd and E. 3rd streets) should be open for business in about two weeks, once the remodeling is done and all the paperwork required by the city is completed. Jose, the owner, says that the grill will be open mornings for preparing eggs, pancakes, and other breakfast foods. He'll also have a salad bar and desserts and will be serving cappuccino. The cafe will have a few tables for customers who want to eat their meal in the cafe. 

UPDATE, July 7th: A new sign advertises breakfast, lunch, and dinner and free delivery and gives a phone number--(718) 436-8800.

MAP OF PROPOSED CULVER EL REZONING

A map showing the existing zoning of the Culver El--the future site of Culver Estates--and one showing the proposed rezoning give a visual presentation of two previous posts on this blog: Affordable Housing to Be Built on 37th Street and Culver Estates: Timeline for Public Review.

BASEBALL TALK AND READING

Baseball Talk and Reading
Monday, June 14th, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Baseball fans (and those who love them) are invited to the East 4th Community Garden for a reading by Dana Brand, author of The Last Days of Shea: Delight and Despair in the Life of a Mets Fan and Mets Fan. The books are personal essays about the Mets and the experience of being a Mets fan.

Dr. Brand is a Professor of English and American Literature at Hofstra University.

The Community Garden is on E. 4th Street, between Caton Avenue and Fort Hamilton Parkway.

GREEN HOMES COMPETITION IN CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 39

Our City Councilmember Brad Lander has formed a partnership with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and Con Edison to hold an energy efficiency competition. They are challenging you, the residents of the 39th District, to take steps toward greening your homes through simple daily practices. They will be reaching out to the public in the coming weeks. The competition will begin on August 1st.

There are many quick and easy ways to bring down your electricity usage, from switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) to buying energy-efficient appliances to unplugging power chargers when you're not using them.

In the meantime, prospective contestants can participate by filling out the "Reduce the Use in District 39" form by August 1st at http://www.surveymonkey.com/reducetheused39. Provide your name, your e-mail address, and your Con Edison account number and answer a few simple questions. Participants' information will only be made available to NYSERDA, Con Edison, and the office of Councilmember Brad Lander.

NYSERDA and Councilmember Lander's office will be sending monthly updates to participants about who has saved the most energy as well as tips to further green your home. At the end of the competition, they'll announce the winners.

Please spread the word. Help get as many neighbors involved as possible by forwarding this message to them or by telling them to contact Michael Curtin at (718) 499-1090 or mcurtin@council.nyc.gov.

WINDSOR TERRACE ALLIANCE MEETING AND YMCA TOUR

Windsor Terrace Alliance Meeting
and Tour of The Armory YMCA
Tonight, June 8th
tour at 5:45 p.m.
meeting at 6:30 p.m.

The next Windsor Terrace Alliance meeting will be held tonight.

At 5:45 p.m., prior to the meeting, please join the tour of The Armory YMCA sports facility.

AGENDA

• Prospect Park Alliance update on Vanderbilt Playground
• Windsor Farm community gardening/composting project
• "No Menus" signs (A limited number of "No Menus" signs will be available. More signs will be available over the coming weeks.)
• New dog run on 18th Street
• New business – bring your concerns

Light refreshments will be provided.

Children are welcome. An area will be set aside with toys and games. Parents must supervise their children.

Where: The Armory YMCA (361 15th Street, between 7th and 8th avenues).

BUS SERVICE CUTS ARE JUST THREE WEEKS AWAY

The following MTA service cuts go into effect on Sunday, June 27th:

Brooklyn bus service reductions
Affected lines include the B16, B35, B67, and B69.

Access-A-Ride Service-Related Changes
Service changes will be phased in over the next several months.

Links to all service changes for New York City Transit, Long Island Rail Road, Long Island Bus, Metro-North Railroad, MTA Bus Company, Access-A-Ride, Able-Ride, and MTA Bridges & Tunnels.

RICH FROG TOYS' BIG SALE

25% off sale on every item in the store!

Rich Frog Toys
"Where children learn to use their imagination"
Educational Toys for Boys and Girls
211 Church Avenue, between E. 2nd and E. 3rd streets
(866) 371-1858
http://www.richfrogtoys.com

SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES!

THE GREAT KENSINGTON BROOKLYN SMOKE-OUT

The Great Kensington Brooklyn Smoke-out
Monday, June 7th, 9:00 a.m.
through Sunday, June 13th, 7:00 p.m.

The pharmacists at Kensington Pharmacy will be handing out literature, talking to people about the dangers of cigarettes, and explain how to quit smoking. Nicotine patches, lozenges, and gum will be on sale for 10% off. Free patches can also be arranged through the NYS Quit Line. Literature, support, and help will be available all week.

Support Group Meeting
Thursday, June 10th, 1:00 p.m.

The support group meeting is open to everyone.

Kensington Pharmacy
309 Church Avenue, between E. 3rd and E. 4th streets, in the back of MF Discount
Open Sunday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Phone: (347) 533-6619
Fax: (347) 533-6618
E-mail: ruben@mrbrklyn.com
Website: http://www.kensingtonpharm.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=110297515659712&v=wall

SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES!

SAFER KENSINGTON STREETS

From our New York City Councilmember, Brad Lander:

Dear Kensington resident,

I've heard from many a number of you about dangerous intersections in the neighborhood -- especially Church Avenue at both McDonald Avenue and Ocean Parkway.

So I am very happy to report on some good news we've received from the NYC Department of Transportation about projects that are taking place this summer:

1. Church Avenue is being repaved, from Old New Utrecht Road to Coney Island Avenue.

2. Church Avenue and McDonald Avenue:

• Installation of new bus shelters on both sides of Church Avenue
• Installation of bulb-outs and pedestrian ramps
  

3. Beverly Road, between Church Avenue and E. 2nd Street:

• Narrow Beverly Road with wider sidewalks and bulb-outs
• Restripe crosswalks, stop bars and other pavement markings
• Improve signal timing
  

4. Ocean Parkway and Church Avenue:

• Raised pedestrian refuge island and median extension
• New pedestrian signals
• New pavement markings to discourage illegal left turns from the southbound service road
• Upgrade No Turn signs
• "Yield to Pedestrian" signs at all approaches
• Restriping of crosswalks, stopbars and other pavement markings
• Improve Signal timing and offset changes

Click here for a full copy of the work DOT is doing at key Church Avenue intersections. Thanks to everyone who contacted my office about this issue. Please keep me updated on whether the improvements are making a difference. And don't hesitate to be in touch with any future observations or concerns about your neighborhood.

Serving the neighborhoods of Cobble Hill, Carroll Gardens, Park Slope,
Windsor Terrace, Borough Park, and Kensington

456 5th Avenue, 3rd Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11215 * (718) 499-1090

GREENWOOD PLAYGROUND SUMMER PROGRAMMING REVISED

Friends of Greenwood Playground's schedule of summer events has been revised. Programming begins on June 10th and ends on August 25th. All of the events are free of charge. Join the fun!

Check the Friends' website before you go to an event, in case changes have to be made to the schedule.

Entrance: E. 5th Street, between Fort Hamilton Parkway and Greenwood Avenue.

=====================================================

Thursday, June 10th, 11:00 a.m.
PUPPETS IN THE PARK - SWEDISH MARIONETTE THEATER production of Sleeping Beauty

Monday, June 14th, and Monday, July 19th, 10:00 a.m.
SINGALONG with Miss Katie (in the tot lot area).
http://www.musicwithmisskatie.com

Tuesday, July 6th, and Tuesday, July 13th, 2:00 p.m.
Cynthia King presents HIP HOP, a high energy romp through various contemporary Hip Hop steps and patterns. All levels welcome. Suitable for ages 5 to 11. http://www.cynthiakingdance.com

Saturday, July 17th, Wednesday, July 28th, and Saturday, August 14th, at sundown.
KWT INTERNATIONAL MOVIEFEST of family-friendly films. Bring a blanket and snacks. Tentative schedule: "The Princess Bride" (U.S., 1987), "The Diamond Arm" (Brilliantovaya Ruka, Russia, 1968), and "A Match Made In Heaven" (Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, India, 2008).

Wednesdays, July 7th through August 25th, 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
PARENT AND CHILD YOGA: Namaste Yoga presents outdoor yoga. Bring your own mat. Caregivers welcome. (This will not be held on rainy days).
http://mynamasteyoga.com

Thursday, June 17, and Thursday, July 8th, 10:00 a.m.
SINGALONG with local singer/songwriter Debbie Deane in the tot lot area.
http://www.debbiedeane.com

Fridays, July 9th and August 6th, 2:00 p.m to 3:30 p.m.
STUDIO AT THE LIBRARY.
For ages 10 to 13.
Fridays, July 16th and August 13th, 10:30 a.m. to noon.
For ages 5 to 9.
Art classes with Dari Litchman of Papi’s Mami. Sign up at the kids’ area in the Windsor Terrace Library.

Wednesday, July 14th, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
For ages 4 and up.
Saturday, July 17th, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For ages 6 and up.
Wednesday, August 11th, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For ages 3 and up.
PRIVATE PICASSOS: art workshops for kids with Valeen.
http://www.privatepicassos.com

Saturday, July 24th, and Saturday, August 21st, 11:30 a.m.
PLAYGROUND OF SOUND: a neighborhood kids’ music class taught by Michael Harran.
http://www.playgroundofsound.com

GREENWOOD GREENKIDS WORKSHOPS: Gardening classes in partnership with the E. 4th St. Community Garden.
Saturday, July 3rd, 10:00 a.m.: Tree Care.
Sunday, July 11th, 10:00 a.m.: Potting up Cuttings.
Saturday, July 24th, 10:00 a.m.: Plant Parts.
http://eastfourthstreetgarden.wordpress.com

MARIA'S PIZZERIA SUMMER HOURS

Maria's Pizzeria will be closed on Sundays starting this weekend and continuing through the day before Labor Day (June 6th through September 5th). Sunday hours will resume on September 12th. But you can still go there Monday through Saturday, from 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., for your Italian food fix!

Maria's Pizzeria
3007 Fort Hamilton Parkway, between E. 2nd and E. 3rd streets
(718) 854-7575

SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES!

SANITATION DEPARTMENT CHALLENGES STATEMENTS ABOUT LITTER BASKETS

The Sanitation Department's Citywide Community Affairs Officer has written a rebuttal to an article about how often our corner litter baskets are emptied.

The article, published in yournabe.com, says the baskets are being emptied once or twice a week. The official says that the article "completely mislead your readers, and contained incorrect information." He states that "Dedicated litter basket trucks were eliminated in all the outer boroughs. However, these baskets are being serviced by household refuse collection trucks along their routes at least twice a week."

Regardless of how many times per week the baskets are emptied, they're often filled beyond the top with garbage, and additional garbage is on the ground next to them. Now that the weather is warm, flying and crawling insects are going to find the baskets appealing.

The Sanitation Department official's full comment is posted below the article.