myrtle minutes

Make Music New York on Myrtle 2013 Schedule Announced!

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 15:46:00 -0400

Be sure to visit Myrtle Avenue for Make Music New York, taking place all day on Friday, June 21st. Free music performances will be taking place all around the city, and Myrtle Avenue has performances happening at 9 different locations up and down the corridor. From jazz to blues to rock to Latin to soul, and more-- it's that time! Come out and groove to the music and relax or eat, drink and be merry. Check out the schedule of events! Sweet music all over the neighborhood.

Live Well Event with Special Guest Ronald K. Brown/Evidence

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 15:10:00 -0400

All are welcome to the Live Well event hosted by University Settlement at the Ingersoll Community Center on Saturday June 22, 2013! You'll enjoy free rides, music, workshops, performances and resources! Be sure to look for the MARP table to pick up information about the Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand opening July 3rd 8AM-3PM & get a taste of Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Beryl's Tofu Stuffed Pita recipe! Where: 177 Myrtle Avenue
Time: 10AM - 3PM
More info: 718-522-5051

Hillstock: Music, Comedy, Ice Cream + Myrtle deals - this weekend!

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 13:34:00 -0400

Our favorite locally-grown music festival, Hillstock returns to the nabe this weekend! They kick off with a great lineup for Make Music NY on Friday at the Putnam Triangle in partnership with our friends at the FAB Alliance, so check them out if you're in the Fulton Street Area. On Saturday, they're throwing their annual block party bash right here on Emerson between Myrtle and Park! Head to 106 Emerson from 11am-8pm for some great, FREE (!!!) music and comedy for all-ages. Myrtle BONUS: Show your Hillstock wristband for food and drink deals at 25 Myrtle businesses!

From their site, here's what's in store:
'Saturday starts with the iconic Hillstock Block Party at 106 Emerson Place, a free all-ages event not to be missed. Expect large crowds for anti-folk progenitor Paleface, Brooklyn avant-garde legends Aa (Big A little a) and 19-piece punk-rock brass band What Cheer? Brigade. If all this werent enough, The Chris Gethard Show headlines the first-ever block party Comedy Stage, while Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream brings some food truck flavor to Emerson Place!

For a full schedule, visit www.neverbreakdown.hillstock.com. We are a proud supporter of this fantastic event through our Community Builders mini grant program.

Saluting Myrtle Avenue small biz owners!

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:42:00 -0400

It's Day 2 of National Small Business Week! Happy National Small Business Week to all of our Myrtle merchants! THANK YOU for all of your hard work & helping create such a great neighborhood! Every year since 1963, the President of the United States has issued a proclamation announcing National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of Americas entrepreneurs and small business owners. Check out President Obama's message here.

Make Music New York on Myrtle...it's coming!

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 16:21:00 -0400

Let's get ready to TAP OUR FEET and ENJOY! It's almost that time again--Make Music New York is Friday, June 21st. We have quite a few musical performances up and down the Avenue. Stay tuned for details next week! Soco Fork Café (open mic, so stop in and sign up!) Green in BKLYN Gnarly Vines Le Petit Bakery Fort Greene Park (Myrtle and Washington Park entrance) CakeJoy Bakery Fresh Fanatic Brooklyn Public Library/Walt Whitman Branch And Make Music New York After Dark at Putnam's Pub & Cooker

Chef Paul of Putnam's Pub & Cooker #farm2nabe Menu = YUM!!

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 09:14:00 -0400

Check out the delicious menu Chef Paul of Putnams Pub & Cooker has created for the upcoming #farm2nabe event! Join us on Tuesday, June 18th, 5-7PM and taste these fresh, local dishes featuring Hudson Valley Harvest and Stinky Bklyn cheeses while sampling a variety of local beers! You'll also have the opportunity to chat with folks from Hudson Valley Harvest & Stinky Bklyn - learn about where their products come from and get to know the farmers! Buy your tickets today!
#farm2nabe events support two local farm education programs that bring farming education and nutrition awareness to Fort Greene & Clinton Hill youth - City Growers & PS 20 Farms!
Events are sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project & St. Joseph's College

Last Chance to Join us for #farm2nabe Dine - Support - Mingle Locally June Events!

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:58:00 -0400

The last two #farm2nabe events at Maggie Brown and LuLu & Po have been a great success - thank you to all who have celebrated with us!
If you haven't been able to join us, or if you haven't had enough delicious, local food and drink on Myrtle Avenue, come to our last of three events on:
Tuesday, June 18th, 5-7PM at Putnams Pub & Cooker
Chef Paul will create a menu featuring Hudson Valley Harvest, Stinky Bklyn , and local beer and spirits will be available. You'll have the opportunity to chat with folks from Hudson Valley Harvest & Stinky Bklyn - learn about where their products come from and get to know the farmers! Buy your ticket today!
While dining and mingling you are also supporting two local farm education programs that bring farming education and nutrition awareness to Fort Greene & Clinton Hill youth - City Growers & PS 20 Farms! Past events:
June 4th 5-7PM
Maggie Brown - 455 Myrtle
Featuring Milk Not Jails & Brooklyn Republic Vodka
June 11th 6-9PM
LuLu & Po 154 Carlton
Featuring Anthony Nappa Wines, Brooklyn Grange Buy your tickets today!

Free Summer Tennis Lessons for Kids!

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 13:00:00 -0400

Free summer tennis program for kids ages 6 to 16 at Fort Greene Park. Fort Greene Park is one of 36 NYC parks offering free summer sports and fitness lessons throughout the 5 boroughs. The annual tennis program, part of the City Parks Foundation, will be offered in Fort Greene Park on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9am - 12noon and culminates in a tournament on August 9th. CityParks Tennis is open to New York City residents only. Registration takes place at each park during program hours. Visit the City Park Foundation website for additional details as well as information on free golf, track and field, adult and senior fitness programs. photo credit: City Parks Foundation

Birdflew Studios presents Pop-Up Piano Concert at FG Park This Thursday!

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 17:44:00 -0400

The BirdFlew Studios Pop-Up Piano Concert at Fort Greene Park
Thursday, June 13th, 6pm
Fort Greene Park NE Entrance (Myrtle and Washington Park)

Friends and neighbors join us at the Sing for Hope piano designed by Robert Baird for some great music to kick off the weekend, inspired by #artforall!
- composer and pianist Ken McQueen
- pianist and singer Sonia Carrion
- Black Bear Tribe plays their blues rock originals
- Brooklyn based Ramon & Dylan plays tunes from their most recent album Elephant Walk

More about the artists:
Ken McQueen is music director for live theatre and composes for stage and screen. Ken has collaborated with award winning artists like Robert Thomas Jr. and Johnny Rodgers.
Sonia Carrion hales from Boston but has recently made NYC her home. She has recently released 2 Singles with Big Mommas House Records and is currently working with Smash Haus Music Group.
Black Bear Tribe is a local rock band heavily influenced by the classic greats like Led Zeppelin. Recent shows include performances at Trash Bar, Parkside Lounge, and Arlenes Grocery.
Since the release of Elephant Walk, the members of Brooklyn based Ramon & Dylan have been taking time to focus on their solo projects. As big fans of the Sing for Hope Pop-Up Piano project, Ramon & Dylan played at 2011s piano Windows in McCarren Park and are excited to come together to play again at the new piano Doors in Fort Greene Park.

This event is made possible by Sing for Hope and the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership.

Don't forget...there are pianos at BLDG92 and Under the BQE - make sure to get your ivory-tickling in before they leave this weekend!

Wednesday is salsa night at Cielo Bar!

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 14:57:00 -0400

Put on your dancing shoes to toe tap to live conga drums, timbales and other instruments while enjoying delicious food and drink at Cielo Bar every Wednesday night. Come on out! Wepa! 8pm-midnight, no cover. Cielo Bar is located at 474 Myrtle between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. Call 347.529.4143

Lunch at Palmers Cafe, Bar & Diner, oh yeah!

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 12:44:00 -0400

The meatball pizza at Palmers Cafe, Bar & Diner is delishhhhhh! Check out the menu at Palmers for other delish fare, including: mesclun salad with julienned carrot & roasted beets and mustard shallot vinaigrette; Bobs cobb salad with warm and carmelized thick-cut bacon, tomato, avocado, hard cooked egg, blue cheese and a balsamic vinaigrette; starters such as coconut curry mussels with coconut milk and red curry broth; peking chicken quesadilla with scallion, smoked gouda, shredded carrot and hoisin sauce; entrees such as burgers with hand cut fries. Burgers are prime ground beef blend served on a potato roll with lettuce, tomato, onion and half sour pickle. Homemade veggie burgers (green lentils, rolled oats, sunflower and sesame seeds, fresh veggies, sundried tomato spread and mixed greens). Palmers Cafe, Bar & Diner is located at 343 Gold Street (at Myrtle-Flatbush Extension). Please call them to order or for more information: 718.858.5866.

Splitty is open for business!

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 23:05:00 -0400

Soft opening this past Thursday for Splitty, the new bar located at 415 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt and Clinton. Lots of locals stopped in to enjoy. If you haven't had a chance to stop in yet, this weekend is a good time to drop by! Great variety of draft beer, cocktails, bottled beer and red and white wine. Splitty's also home of wonderful steamed buns--pastrami, shroom and banana nutella, yummm. Check out Splitty's 50s inspired exterior and interior design. Splitty is located at 415 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt and Clinton.

Safety Meeting on Myrtle Avenue, 6/10 at 7pm

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 10:12:00 -0400

Please join us for a community meeting this Monday evening, June 10th at 7:00pm at SoCo Restaurant, 509 Myrtle Avenue to discuss recent crime, safety and quality of life issues in the neighborhood. The meeting is an opportunity for local merchants and residents to collectively address concerns about recent illegal activity and violence. As a community, we will develop a unified response of zero tolerance for the illicit activity and nuisance behavior that have threatened our thriving community and commercial strip.

FREE Events Abound Around Myrtle This Weekend!

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 10:10:00 -0400

Theres so much going on in the neighborhood, that you can enjoy free events all weekend long and score deals and discounts at over 25 Myrtle restaurants and shops! Heres a rundown of whats happening: SONYA Stroll : Over 43 local artists, studios and galleries will display their work and host a variety of events. Spend the weekend checking out locally produced art and enjoying deals enjoying deals from your favorite Myrtle businesses. Red Hook Crit: The Crit moves to the Brooklyn Navy Yard on Saturday, 6/8, with events happening all day. You can click to download a Passport to find local restaurants, bars, coffee shops and bike shops AND score a free t-shirt! Collect your passport stamps! Important UPDATE: Lola BKLYN will be closed for a private event on Saturday, June 8th. We apologize for any inconvenience. But you know what that means: Get your stamps at Lola BKLYN Friday and Saturday night after 11pm! Thanks! Free Piano Concerts!: Sing For Hope has installed dozens of pianos across the city and youll find 3 of them right here in Ft Greene & Clinton Hill. You can create your own music or enjoy free piano concerts throughout the weekend. Click here for a full schedule.

Wine Tasting at Gnarly Vines, June 8th, 2pm - 5pm!

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 10:08:00 -0400

To add to the excitement of this weekend--a wine tasting! Sat, June 8 from 2pm to 5pm Arts by Ava Tomlinson and wines of Chateau La Gordonne as well as the beloved Pink Flamingo Rosé from Domaine du Jarras Avas work is a rich mixture of color, form and light, rooted in an American/Jamaican/European culture. Color dominates the paintings capturing fleeting moments, the slices of our everyday existence, from the urban landscape of New York, to the rural Caribbean countryside, from the traditional to the banal. Come by and discover her work while tasting these delicious wines from the Côtes de Provence practically all weekend long at Gnarly Vines! 2012 Chateau La Gordonne Blanc - Cotes de Provence, France - $16 2012 Domaine de Jarras Tete de Cuvee Gris de Gris Pink Flamingo - Sables de Camargue, Languedoc, France - $14 2011 La Chapelle Gordonne Rose - Cotes de Provence, France - $20 2008 Chateau La Gordonne Rouge - Cotes de Provence, France - $16 Gnarly Vines is located at 350 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi and can be reached by telephone at 718.797.3183.

CKO Kickboxing to hold special class on Sat., 6/8! Proceeds to benefit P.S. 20 Farms!

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 10:07:00 -0400

CKO Kickboxing at 45 Waverly Avenue between Park and Flushing to hold a special class on Saturday, 6/8 at 2:30pm. Come out, have fun and help raise funds for a worthy cause: PS 20 Farms. The special 90-minute class is $25! New, beginner and experienced kickboxers are welcome! Bring your own gloves or buy them at the gym for only $10 (reduced from the usual $20). All proceeds, including glove sale and beverage purchases benefit P.S. 20 Farm. CKO Kickboxing is located at 45 Waverly Avenue between Park and Flushing.

SONYA Stroll arrives on Myrtle - June 8 + 9!

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 10:05:00 -0400

Myrtle Avenue is making a strong showing on this year's SONYA Studio Stroll! This weekend, take this self-guided tour or SONYArtist studios and exhibitions at local businesses. A great way to support our local arts community...and it's FREE!

Plan your route using this dowloadable Stroll Map. With all that walking, you'll need some fuel - check out the 25+ deals and specials offered by Myrtle businesses!

Here's a list of Myrtle businesses between Carlton and Classon hosting SONYArtworks (see the map more more detail):
Gnarly Vines
Le Petit Bakery
Huey's Chueys
DC Optics
Green in BKLYN
Cielo
Hadas Gallery
The Emerson

Artist studios right here on Myrtle:
KiiK Create (412 Myrtle)
publicdraw (525 Myrtle)

While you're here, check out these cool Public Art projects:
Tomorrow Sculpture by Akihiro Ito
Myrtle Tree Guards
Sing for Hope Pianos(FG Park, BLDG92, Soundwaves mural)

Join us on the Patio of Maggie Brown's Tonight, 5-7PM

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 15:35:00 -0400

It's a beautiful afternoon - join us for a Moscow Mule or SingleCut Beer and local snacks on the patio of Maggie Brown - 455 Myrtle tonight, 5-7PM! This is the first of three #farm2nabe events. Tonight Maggie Brown will feature house-made ricotta on salted toasts made with milk from a Milk Not Jails dairy farmer, a Moscow Mule cocktail with Brooklyn Republic Vodka or a cold beer from SingleCut Beersmiths, and popular menu itmes Fried Pickles and Deviled Organic Eggs! While tasting and sipping you'll get the opportunity to meet Lauren Melodia, founder of Milk not Jails, and hear more about the "brilliance of mobilizing people with the idea that you can change the prison system by eating more ice cream." Also meet Mark of Brooklyn Republic Vodka and learn about his family owned distillery right around the corner in the Wallabout neighborhood. Buy your ticket online or with cash at the door!
#farm2nabe events are sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project & St. Joseph's College

Concerns for safety at Myrtle/Ryerson - Call to Action

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 10:02:00 -0400

The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership is deeply concerned about the environment that continues to develop at Myrtle Avenue and Ryerson Street. We feel that alleged illegal activity is contributing to an emerging negative environment on this block, and that we must collectively employ strategies to improve the atmosphere for businesses and residents alike in the immediate term.

We have requested the following from the 88th Precinct:
1. Station an NYPD officer/patrol car near this block on Thursday Saturday evenings. The presence of the car should help to deter illegal activity on the sidewalk and to prevent large loitering crowds.
2. Respond to noise complaints immediately for a period of a few weeks, in order to send an immediate message of intolerance.
3. Employ strategies to dissipate crowds and discourage loitering, especially after a certain point in the evening. There are hundreds loitering on the sidewalk (many of whom are drinking and fighting according to anecdotes from residents and merchants). This is impacting the livelihoods of nearby merchants and is a nuisance to residents navigating the sidewalks to their homes.

We are crafting an action plan to target all the agencies, authorities and elected officials that can help us address this situation. We are working to organize merchants, property owners and residents to document incidents and report them through the proper channels.

You can help. Here's what you can do:
1. Report any suspicious activity to 311 and/or 911. We urge you to make these calls for each and every incident you witness - it is crucial that everything is documented in order to rally the necessary resources to our community.
2. Attend the 88th Precinct Council Meeting, which takes place on the 3rd Tuesday of each month (location varies). Contact the 88th Community Affairs line to get the location 718-636-6526.
3. If you suspect that illegal alcohol activity is taking place in connection with a business, please file a complaint with the NY State Liquor Authority http://www.sla.ny.gov/register-a-complaint

Let's work together as a supportive, collaborative Myrtle Avenue community do everything possible to prevent the loss of another innocent life.

Join us at Maggie Brown #farm2nabe Event Tomorrow

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 12:42:00 -0400

Join us at the first of three #farm2nabe events tomorrow, June 4th 5-7PM at Maggie Brown - 455 Myrtle - featuring house-made ricotta on salted toasts made with milk from a Milk Not Jails dairy farmer, a Moscow Mule cocktail with Brooklyn Republic Vodka or a cold beer from SingleCut Beersmiths, and popular menu itmes Fried Pickles and Deviled Organic Eggs! While tasting and sipping you'll get the opportunity to meet Lauren Melodia, founder of Milk not Jails, and hear more about the "brilliance of mobilizing people with the idea that you can change the prison system by eating more ice cream." Also meet Mark of Brooklyn Republic Vodka and learn about his family owned distillery right around the corner in the Wallabout neighborhood. Buy your ticket today!
#farm2nabe events are sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project & St. Joseph's College

Sing for Hope Pianos - Free concerts this weekend!

Fri, 31 May 2013 17:46:00 -0400

We've got three (count 'em, three!) Sing For Hope Pianos within walking distance of each other in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. They are officially 'open for music-making' starting tomorrow, Saturday, through June 16th. Performances this weekend include:

Saturday, June 8 @BLDG 92
Sylvana Joyce and the Moments 3:30-4pm
Pianist Tom Ryan 4-6pm

Sunday, June 9 @ under the BQE, Park/Grand
Four pianists interpret Moonlight Sonata 2pm

While you are visiting the artist-designed pianos, check out the Soundwaves Mural by Ellie Balk, Tomorrow sculpture by Akihiro Ito, and BLDG92 at the Navy Yard! Kick off your weekend with some arts & culture, people! Tweet us photos of you at the pianos @MyrtleAveBklyn.

Trilok Summer Event this Sunday

Fri, 31 May 2013 16:33:00 -0400

All are welcome to celebrate the opening of the Trilok Garden and welcome in summer at their Earth Day market this Sunday, June 2nd 10AM-PM! Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Oliver Peters will be there chopping up fresh veggies for his Seasonal Veggie Salad recipe. Stop by for a taste, get the recipe and shop right on site from Farm to Neighborhood merchant Fresh Fanatic who will be there selling his farm, fresh produce! Where: 143 Waverly Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11205 (corner of Myrtle and Waverly
When: Sunday, June 2, 2013
Time: 10:00-6:00 PM
Live Music, Great Food, eco-venders, artists, plant sale, children's activities and more.

El Cofre: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Fri, 31 May 2013 13:23:00 -0400

Do you know about the $5 and $6 lunch specials at El Cofre? Lunch specials are available everyday, 11am-4pm. Breakfast and dinner are just as affordable. If you haven't stopped by this popular treasure chest ('cofre' is the Spanish word for treasure chest) of Dominican cuisine, what are you waiting for? We usually order the avocado salad w/romaine lettuce, red onions and El Cofre's homemade special vinaigrette; or baked chicken, mixed veggies and mashed potatoes; or fried fresh fish with a side of tostones (sliced green plantains) or platanos maduros (fried ripe plantains); or a pressed sandwich; or stewed chicken w/moro (one pot mixed rice and beans); or black beans over yellow rice....so many delicious choices! Most of the heaping plates of delicious cuisine at El Cofre can be shared by two! AND--especially with hotter days on the horizon, don't forget the ice cold, fresh fruit batidas (milkshakes). Flavors like papaya*, pineapple and coconut, yess! El Cofre is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. El Cofre is located at 454 Myrtle Avenue between Waverly and Washington Avenues. They can be reached at 718.935.1153. --- *don't say we didn't tell ya!

DINE, SUPPORT & MINGLE locally at upcoming Farm to Neighborhood Events!

Fri, 31 May 2013 11:51:00 -0400

Join us at the first of three #farm2nabe events on Tuesday, June 4th 5-7PM at Maggie Brown - 455 Myrtle - featuring house-made ricotta on salted toasts made with milk from a Milk Not Jails dairy farmer, a Moscow Mule cocktail with Brooklyn Republic Vodka and more delish menu items that are sure to become a favorite of all foodies! While tasting and sipping you'll get the opportunity to meet Lauren Melodia, founder of Milk not Jails, and hear more about the "brilliance of mobilizing people with the idea that you can change the prison system by eating more ice cream." Also meet Mark of Brooklyn Republic Vodka and learn about his family owned distillery right around the corner in the Wallabout neighborhood. Buy your ticket today!
At all events, you'll taste each chefs local flavors, meet some of their regional producers & support two local farm education programs that bring farming education and nutrition awareness to Fort Greene & Clinton Hill youth - City Growers & PS 20 Farms! LuLu & Po 154 Carlton
June 11th 6-9PM
Featuring Anthony Nappa Wines, Brooklyn Grange & Feather Ridge Farm
Putnams Pub & Cooker 419 Myrtle
June 18th 5-7 PM
Featuring Hudson Valley Harvest, Stinky Bklyn , and local beer and spirits.
Buy your tickets today!

Prince Street Gets a Spruce Up!

Thu, 30 May 2013 15:28:00 -0400

Members of the Ingersoll Youth Council (of the Ingersoll Tenants Association) organized a successful Ingersoll Beautification Day on Sunday, 5/26! Community members, adults and kids came together to help transform the large 4' x 2.5' concrete planters along Prince Street between Myrtle and Tillary into beautifully color splashed, flower and plant-filled boxes. Many of the planters were also decorated with words such as 'kids rock,' 'peace,' and 'Brooklyn.'

Visit Barking Brown today for just-right outfits and accessories!

Thu, 30 May 2013 13:43:00 -0400

A hot, humid day like today really makes you stop and stare at this lightweight, salmon-colored jumper, amongst the other beautiful outfits in the store window at Barking Brown. The necklace helps to pull this great look together, don't you agree? Whether for a weekend cookout, first date, dinner, a walk through Fort Greene Park or hanging out on Myrtle Avenue, stop in at Barking Brown for that just right outfit or accessories. Stop in and check it out! Barking Brown is located at 468 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street and can be reached at 718.638.3757.

Join the Greene Hill Food Co-op on Saturday for a Backyard Party

Wed, 29 May 2013 15:18:00 -0400

This free, casual party will be a bring-your-own-lawn-chair (or blanket) hangout a great way to meet Co-op members, learn how to become a member and enjoy some fresh air and fresh ingredients. It's a potluck so bring a food item to share. Beer and wine for sale cash bar.
Where: 18 Putnam Ave, 11238
When: Saturday, June 1, 2013
Time: noon-4PM
For more info / to help email: events@greenehillfood.coop

Colin Devlin to open Myrtle restaurant in July

Wed, 29 May 2013 14:59:00 -0400

Award-winning restaurateur, Colin Devlin is opening a new dining establishment at 458 Myrtle between Washington and Waverly, at the former site of Anima Italian Bistro. Colin is owner of popular restaurants, DuMont, DuMont Burger and Michelin-rated Dressler. The new restaurant will offer delicious "American fare" in a casual environment. The yet unnamed restaurant (Colin says it won't start with a 'D') is expected to open in July.

MARP Receives Grassroots Preservation Award from the Historic Districts Council

Wed, 29 May 2013 12:40:00 -0400

The Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project LDC (MARP) was honored this past week by the Historic Districts Council (HDC) with a 2013 Grassroots Preservation Award. Each year, HDC grants awards to organizations and individuals who have worked tirelessly for their neighborhoods and communities, and have strove to better our city through their efforts. Over the years, MARP has been involved in several local preservation projects, including the advocating for several historic districts in Wallabout, producing the Wallabout Homeowners Preservation Manual , and providing grants through the New York Main Street program to property owners on Myrtle Avenue to rehab their historic buildings. We are proud of these past successes and are excited to continue to use historic preservation as an important tool in revitalizing the neighborhood. Thank you HDC for the award and congratulations to all of this years award winners! Please visit HDCs website to learn more about the impressive organizations and individuals who also received awards. MARPs preservation efforts were also honored this past December with a NY State Historic Preservation Award from the New York State Historic Preservation Office at their annual meeting in Albany.

Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn's on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram! Are you connected?

Tue, 28 May 2013 14:46:00 -0400

Hey neighbors! Are you following us on Twitter and Instagram? Do you like us on Facebook? We'd love to connect with you to share the latest Myrtle Avenue and other local news! Help us spread the word--tell your friends and family. We've got something special brewing for our 1000th Facebook follower who also connects with us on one other social media outlet: two tickets to one of the #farm2nabe food events (if we reach 1000 in time for any of these June events), $80 value OR a gift certificate to a Myrtle Avenue business, $40 value. Here's how you can win: be our 1000th 'like' on Facebook AND also become a follower on Twitter, Instagram--or both! Thank you, we so look forward to connecting with you!

Brooklyn Navy Yard's Duggal Greenhouse in the Daily News

Tue, 28 May 2013 13:15:00 -0400

The NY Daily News highlighted the Duggal Greenhouse in an article in today's paper. The Duggal Greenhouse, named after Baldev Duggal, entrepreneur and financier along with the City of the new eco-building located in the Brooklyn Navy Yard's Building 268, devoted to solving global electricity, water, and agriculture problems. The $2 million rehab from a dilapidated former foundry to an elegant eco-vision come true included a repaired roof, sprinkler system, full rubble and asbestos removal, According to the article, Duggal Greenhouse's first product is Lumi-Solair, an off-grid solar powered streetlamp. It comes in three models-Classic for residential areas, the Swan for roadways or industrial areas, and Original, powered by wind, sun or a combination of the two.. Over 50 Lumis are installed in the Navy Yard with others being used at the Charlotte Airport, Monmouth County courthouse, and Atlantic City boardwalk, where it was the only street light to work through Superstorm Sandy. Click here. to read more. photo credit: Duggal website (r-l, before and after, Duggal Greenhouse)

Buy Your Farm To Neighborhood Event & Fundraiser Tickets Today!

Tue, 28 May 2013 12:27:00 -0400

DINE, SUPPORT & MINGLE locally at three of our #farm2nabe restaurants in June: Maggie Brown, LuLu & Po & Putnam's Pub & Cooker! Come to an event, or even better all three!, and taste each chefs local flavors, meet some of their regional producers & support two local farm education programs that bring farming education and nutrition awareness to Fort Greene & Clinton Hill youth - City Growers & PS 20 Farms! The first event is coming up - Tuesday, June 4th 5-7PM at Maggie Brown- 455 Myrtle - featuring house-made ricotta on salted toasts made with milk from a Milk Not Jails dairy farmer, a Moscow Mule cocktail with Brooklyn Republic Vodka and more delish menu items that are sure to become a favorite of all foodies! While tasting and sipping you'll get the opportunity to meet Lauren Melodia, founder of Milk not Jails, and hear more about the "brilliance of mobilizing people with the idea that you can change the prison system by eating more ice cream." Also meet Mark of Brooklyn Republic Vodka and learn about his family owned distillery right around the corner in the Wallabout neighborhood. Buy your ticket today!
After the Maggie Brown event join us at the following: LuLu & Po 154 Carlton
June 11th 6-9PM
Featuring Anthony Nappa Wines, Brooklyn Grange & Feather Ridge Farm
Putnams Pub & Cooker 419 Myrtle
June 18th 5-7 PM
Featuring Hudson Valley Harvest, Stinky Bklyn , and local beer and spirits.
Buy your tickets today!

New Home for Pratt's Film and Video Program: PrattSTORE to close

Tue, 28 May 2013 11:48:00 -0400

Pratt announced last week that the PrattSTORE, the Institute's 15,000sf art supply store located at 550 Myrtle Avenue between Steuben and Emerson, will soon be the new home of the school's Film/Video Program, complete with screening room, sound stages, recording studio and mixing rooms, according to Jacki Ochs, chair of Pratt's Film/Video program. The PrattSTORE will close on June 30th. The building is expected to undergo a major overhaul before the Film and Video Program opens at the site in 2014. Here is more of the story from DNA Info.

Prince Street Spruce Up on Sunday, 5/26!

Fri, 24 May 2013 18:28:00 -0400

The Ingersoll Youth Alliance (of the Ingersoll Tenants' Association) is sprucing up Prince Street between Myrtle and Tillary on Sunday, 5/26 from 12noon to 4:00pm! The spruce up will include painting, loads of plantings, food, music and fun. All hands on deck! Please come out and join in the fun! Volunteers are welcome!

Storyboard P at Whitman Houses on Sunday, 5/26!

Fri, 24 May 2013 15:05:00 -0400

Storyboard P, dancer known for his broad knowledge in both underground/urban dance styles and contemporary movement will perform at the Whitman Houses Basketball Courts (Park and Cumberland) on Sunday, 5/26 at 2pm. Storyboard P, who earned the name 'storyboard' while in film school because of his masterful skill of storytelling on paper and later as a dancer, through his body movements, is said to have one of the more unique dance styles out there, seeming to even defy the physics of balance and gravity. Check him out in his work with Beyoncé, Jay-Z and Kanye West, Fab 5 Freddy and many others. The performance is part of MoCADA's public exchange series and also includes musical performances by IAMPOPULA, MosRuf and DJ Ason James. photo credit: MoCADA

Bardos Ballet Debuts 'Burrow' in Fort Greene Park, Fri., 5/24 at 7pm

Thu, 23 May 2013 13:57:00 -0400

It makes perfect sense that the daughter of a famous set designer (her dad) and a ballerina (her mom) would produce a work that seeks to merge dance with the environment, in this case the environment is Fort Greene Park. Such is the case for dancer, choreographer and director of the Bardos Ballet Theater, Cynthia Anne Stanley who collaborates with Xoguete Architecture on this latest piece, 'Burrow.' The ballet performance is free to the public, begins at 7pm and takes place in Fort Greene Park near the Prison Ship Martyrs Monument stairs. In Burrow, "12 women emerge from a mirage of World War II era styles, music and sounds. Watch the dancers construct, inhabit, & disassemble dwellings both primal & domestic," as described on the Bardos Ballet Theater's Facebook page. Burrow is an exciting new work that explores the role of women as architects of society while honoring those that waited on the home front during WWII. The work itself is inspired in large part by a diverse few people and others: Stanley's late grandmothers, both the wives of WWII soldiers, cyclical routine activities of daily life as well as burrowing animals, hence the piece's title. Burrow debuts in a series of free dance sneak-attacks in select NYC parks, the second of which takes place tomorrow, Friday, 5/24 in Fort Greene Park. Feel free to bring a picnic blanket or a chair. Connect with the Bardos Ballet Theater on Facebook for additional information or any last minute venue changes due to weather conditions. Hope to see you on Myrtle for pre- or post- performance dinner and drinks! photo credit: Bardos Ballet Theater

Get ready, get ready! All you can eat crab at Five Spot Soul Food!

Thu, 23 May 2013 12:48:00 -0400

All you can eat crab coming soon to Five Spot Soul Food and Supper Club! This all you can eat crab fest will take place on Mondays, 4pm-until. Stop in and check out Five Spot's other delicious menu offerings as well as their full entertainment schedule. Five Spot is located at 459 Myrtle Avenue and can be reached at: 718.852.0202.

Joseph Tyler Salon offers neighborhood special: 15% off haircuts!

Thu, 23 May 2013 12:01:00 -0400

Here's one just in time for summer, yes! Hey neighbors: Joseph Tyler Salon now offers 15% off haircuts on Tuesdays and Wednesdays! Whether you are in the mood for a brand new summer cut or whether it's just time, stop by Joseph Tyler and take advantage of this special neighborhood offer! Please call for an appointment at 718.802.9200. Walk-ins are also welcome. Joseph Tyler Salon is located at 456 Myrtle Avenue (Washington/Waverly) and can be reached at 718.802.9200.

Rise and Flow: Early Morning Yoga at Move with Grace!

Wed, 22 May 2013 16:05:00 -0400

OMmmmmmm, rise and flow. 7am early morning yoga now offered at Move with Grace Yoga, Dance & Pilates Studio on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Give a call to sign up in advance. Get the heart rate going and a peaceful mindset to start off the day. Move with Grace Studio offers a wide variety of classes, including yoga (Vinyasa, Hatha and Iyengar) zumba and Pilates, adults and children's classes. Group and private lessons are available. If you're signing on as a new student, don't forget to check out the introductory special: unlimited classes for 30 days for only $40. Move with Grace also has a fresh juice bar! Fresh juices, smoothies and protein shakes now available, yummmmmmmmm. Green smoothies, strawberry, blueberry, banana, pomegranate, apple...and on and OH SO YUMMY on. Move with Grace is located at 469 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. The studio can be reached at 718.230.0013. photo credit: Move with Grace Yoga, Dance & Pilates Studio

Utrecht Art Supplies: online Ask the Experts section

Tue, 21 May 2013 14:33:00 -0400

Utrecht Art Supplies has a new online 'Ask the Experts' section. Have you checked it out? Utrecht says that artists rave about their 'Ask the Experts' service, so check it out! Get the answers you need about the supplies and techniques you use every day. No question is too basic for 'Ask the Experts.' Some previous questions have included: 'is oil on paper a sound technique?', 'what is mahlstick used for?', 'how does a printmaker avoid fingerprints on paper?', 'what does tint strength mean?' Click here to submit your questions: https://www.facebook.com/UtrechtArtSupplies/app_141149985924076 Utrecht Art Supplies is located at 536 Myrtle Avenue between Steuben and Grand. The store can be reached at 718.789.0308.

It's 'Twosday' at CakeJoy Bakery!

Tue, 21 May 2013 12:15:00 -0400

It's 'Twosday'-- 2 cupcakes for the price of one at CakeJoy Bakery! $5 will get you two red velvet cupcakes. $3 will get you two of any other kind. Mix and match! Choose from a variety of mouthwatering cupcake flavors such as Rosalie (vanilla), red velvet, orange dreamsicle, raspberry, poppin' pistachio, chocolate grand marnier seduction, strawberry lemonade, coconut rum punch, mojito madness and pineapple kiss. CakeJoy Bakery is located at 364 Myrtle Avenue between Clermont and Adelphi. CakeJoy can be reached at 718.624.CAKE (2253). photo credit: CakeJoy Bakery (l-r, Poppin'Pistachio and Strawberry Pineapple Rum Punch)

Trilok Students Show Off Their Tree Guard Design!

Mon, 20 May 2013 18:26:00 -0400

Four and five year olds from the 'Grapes and Berries' class at the Trilok Center for Arts & Education were presented with a laser-cut steel proof of their design earlier today. Proofs are made before a design can be manufactured into a tree guard. After that, they can be displayed and enjoyed as artwork. The wee ones' original tree panel design was selected in the second round of tree guard installations on Myrtle Avenue. Awwwww, start 'em young, folks! The students designs were made into a tree bench and installed on Myrtle Avenue and Waverly. Follow us (!) on Instagram for other great pics like this one. Congratulations Trilok 'Grapes and Berries' class! Myrtles tree guards are both functional and durable, and offer a canvas that reflects local creativity. They were created with a modular design so that each set of panels can have a unique, laser-cut design, meeting the Partnerships goal of creating more opportunities to incorporate local public art into the streetscape. The newest tree guard panels were designed by 24 local artists, who were selected through an open call for public art. Phase II was funded by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn BID, NYS DEC Urban and Community Forestry, and NYS Main Street. Trilok Center for Arts & Education is located at 143 Waverly Avenue, just north of Myrtle Avenue. They can be reached at 718.797.1700 or trilokfusion.com.

Ruthie's Southern Cuisine: lunch time!

Mon, 20 May 2013 12:20:00 -0400

Clockwise from top: golden brown to perfection, perfectly seasoned fried whiting and fried shrimp; moist, scrumptious cornbread; savory macaroni and cheese. Lunch time! :-) Ruthie's recipes are based on founder/mother, Ms. Ruth West's tried and true recipes learned during her childhood in Bayboro, North Carolina. Her powerhouse legacy continues. Menu items at Ruthie's include many soul food classics, including candied yams, collard greens, macaroni and cheese and southern fried chicken. Check out the menu for a full range of delicious lunch and dinner options, including salads, soft drinks, and desserts. Stop in for lunch or dinner. Ruthie's is located at 560 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Classon, 718.399.2400.

Job Opportunity: Manicurist needed at the Polish Bar of Brooklyn

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:33:00 -0400

The Polish Bar of Brooklyn is looking to hire an experienced manicurist to join their team of beauty experts and nail professionals. Serious inquiries only. Please call the store at 718.623.5354 if interested. The Polish Bar of Brooklyn is located at 470 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. For additional details or to apply, call: 718.622.5363.

#farm2nabe -- meals like this!

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:16:00 -0400

Mmmmmm, Notice how the sun is peeking through the window just so, acting as a spotlight to show off the many farm fresh ingredients in this delectable meal from Putnam's Pub & Cooker? Those farm fresh eggs, plump tomatoes, that crisp arugula, succulent avocado, fresh ground pepper and freshly baked bread, yesss. And look closer, what's that to the right you ask? Why that is our brand new #farm2nabe card, announcing the June #farm2nabe event series, three Tuesdays in June - June 4, June 11 and June 18. Dine, Support and Mingle. Please join us for cocktails and passed hors d'oeuvres at Maggie Brown, LuLu & Po and Putnam's Pub & Cooker, meet our producers and donate to two local agricultural programs: City Growers & P.S.20 Farms. Click here for more information and to purchase a ticket!

Cielo Bar: Scandal season finale watch party!

Thu, 16 May 2013 13:30:00 -0400

Can't get enough of Scandal? Scandal watch party at Cielo Bar tonight! When asked at a recent Hollywood party for some Scandal season finale bean spilling, actress Kerry Washington shared: "I can tell you that, at the season finale, people were gasping and screaming at the table read. They were crying and laughing, and we were shocked to the core - to the core!" Whew, enough said, it is promised to be a thriller! Scandal watch party at Cielo Bar today, Thursday, May 16 at 10pm. Come out and let's together take in the last bit of drama and thrill before season 2 comes to a close. 7pm -- Happy hour 8pm -- pre-party 10pm -- season finale no cover Scandal-themed drink menu featuring The Olivia Pope cocktail. Bar snacks, including wings, sliders and so much more. Sounds by Mike Music -- salsa, hiphop, R&B, reggae, soca, house... Cielo Bar is located at 474 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street.

Park Avenue Spotlight: News12 Visits Park Avenue

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:50:00 -0400

News12 visited Park Avenue yesterday to report on our efforts to improve pedestrian safety. Reporter Nicole Ryan spoke with MARPs Daniel Scorse, as well as members of the public. The 2-minute piece can be viewed from this page. Simply click on the City working to improve Park Ave. video link. If its not visible, click on the right arrow. The Park Avenue Safety Plan was published in the summer of 2012, after a multi-year community-led effort. Stay tuned for more information.

Job Opportunity: Kitchen Staff at Cielo Bar

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:49:00 -0400

Cielo Bar looking to hire kitchen staff members: porter, prep cook and line cook. Cook positions must be experienced. Please drop off resume and references to Cielo Bar at 474 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. Experience necessary for cook positions.

PrattSTORE Closing Sale -- 40% off

Wed, 15 May 2013 14:38:00 -0400

update: The PrattSTORE is now offering 40% off everything* in the store! 80% off Adobe software! ********************* The PrattSTORE, located at 550 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Steuben is having a big closing sale, 30% off everything* in the store. Paints, canvasses, brushes, paper, pencils, posters and so much more. Plus 80% off Adobe software. *Offer does not include apparel, software, rental center, copy center and custom framing. The PrattSTORE is located at 550 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Steuben and can be reached at 718.789.1105. photo credit: PrattSTORE

Park Avenue Update: Skeleton Message Board Cautions Drivers

Tue, 14 May 2013 15:30:00 -0400

This morning, NYCDOT placed a variable message skeleton board on eastbound Park Avenue near Ryerson Street. The electronic sign alternates between two messages: the roads speed limit and a digital skeleton image next to the words Slow Down. The message board will stay on Park Avenue for about one month, before being moved to another location. According to DOT, a pedestrian struck at 40 mph is 3.5 times more likely to be killed than one struck at 30 mph. Furthermore, speeding was the top contributing factor of traffic fatalities in 2012. The Park Avenue Safety Plan was published in the summer of 2012, after a multi-year community-led effort. Stay tuned for more information.

#farm2nabe Tickets Now on Sale!

Tue, 14 May 2013 14:32:00 -0400

DINE, SUPPORT & MINGLE locally at three of our #farm2nabe restaurants in June: Maggie Brown, LuLu & Po & Putnam's Pub & Cooker! Tickets are NOW on sale
Come to an event, or even better all three!, and taste each chefs local flavors, meet some of their regional producers & support two local farm education programs that bring farming education and nutrition awareness to Fort Greene & Clinton Hill youth - City Growers & PS 20 Farms! The line up: Maggie Brown - 455 Myrtle
June 3rd 5-7PM
Featuring Brooklyn Republic Vodka, Milk Not Jails
LuLu & Po 154 Carlton
June 11th 6-9PM
Featuring Anthony Nappa Wines, Brooklyn Grange & Feather Ridge Farm
Putnams Pub & Cooker 419 Myrtle
June 18th 5-7 PM
Featuring Hudson Valley Harvest, Stinky Bklyn , and local beer and spirits.

Groupon Alert: CKO Kickboxing Special

Tue, 14 May 2013 13:05:00 -0400

Have you been wanting to try out a kickboxing class at CKO Kickboxing at 45 Waverly Avenue? Check out their great Groupon deal! Click here to check it out! CKO Kickboxing is located at 45 Waverly Avenue and can be reached at 347.770.2CKO (2256). photo credit: Groupon

Farm to Neighborhood June Event Series on Myrtle

Mon, 13 May 2013 17:43:00 -0400

MARP's Farm to Neighborhood program connects local chefs and retailers with regional producers to increase consumer access to fresh, locally grown foods and to support our regional economy.
In June, all will have the opportunity to DINE, SUPPORT & MINGLE locally at three of our #farm2nabe restaurants: Maggie Brown, LuLu & Po and Putnam's Pub & Cooker!
Come to an event, or even better all three!, and taste each chefs local flavors, meet some of their regional producers & support two local farm education programs that bring farming education and nutrition awareness to Fort Greene & Clinton Hill youth - City Growers & PS 20 Farms! The series will be Tuesdays in June and the line up so far is: Maggie Brown - 455 Myrtle
June 3rd 5-7PM
Featuring Brooklyn Republic Vodka, Milk Not Jails
LuLu & Po 154 Carlton
June 11th 6-9PM
Featuring Anthony Nappa Wine, Brooklyn Grange & Feather Ridge Farm
Putnams Pub & Cooker 419 Myrtle
June 18th 5-7 PM
Featuring Hudson Valley Harvest, Stinky Bklyn , and local beer and spirits.
$40 Tickets go on sale TOMORROW, 5.14.12, at noon - mark your calendars!

6th Annual Shred Fest, 5/19 from 10am - 4pm!

Mon, 13 May 2013 16:22:00 -0400

Protect your identity. Shred your personal papers for free! Shred Fest is an annual City event to help New Yorkers prevent identity theft. Bring out your old bank statements, old pay stubs, credit card applications, old papers with personal identifying information, etc. At Shred Fest you can: --Safely shred papers containing personal information for free using shredding trucks --Get free identity theft prevention tips --Get a FREE paper shredder* donated by Staples if you are one of the first 5 people to arrive at a Shred Fest location. Closest location: Cadman Plaza (Cadman Plaza West; opposite Clark Street) Click here for complete list of Shred Fest locations. *Shredder recipients will fill out a form to confirm they are not City government employees.

Trilok School's Annual Fundraiser: The 'Spring Swing' Gala, Sat., 5/18!

Mon, 13 May 2013 15:54:00 -0400

Trilok Center for Arts & Education is hosting its annual gala event, Spring Swing.' Come out and have a great time for a great cause. Put on your dancing shoes-- live DJ, dancing, food, drink, fun! Also, children's artwork will be on sale. Help Trilok reach it's $50K fundraising goal. Event proceeds will go towards purchase of a new state-of-the-art greenhouse for the garden and dance floor for the basement performing arts theater. Click here to purchase a ticket or to donate to the cause.

Learn Citi Bike Street Skills at Red Lantern Bikes!

Wed, 08 May 2013 17:31:00 -0400

Thinking of joining Citi Bike, New York Citys new bike share system? Attend a Citi Bike Street Skills class at Red Lantern Bicycles & Cafe located at 345 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton for a short session that includes bike share basics, like pricing and station locations, as well as essential street riding tips. Every participant will leave with a free 24-hour pass to Citi Bike, worth $9.95! Each Bike New York Street Skills class offers important street riding information in a quick, off-bike session. The interactive class will provide concrete examples of city cycling scenarios and how best to handle them so that you enjoy pleasant, stress-free rides. Topics will include where bikes fit on New York Citys bustling streets, whether in a bike lane, traffic lane, bike box and much more. Join fellow Citi Bike riders (and future Citi Bike riders) to learn from certified cycling instructors in an informal, classroom-style presentation and discussion in a lively space where snacks, drinks, and good company are provided. Want to sign up for classes at Red Lantern Bicycles & Café? Only 3 classes remaining (Thursdays, May 16, June 6 and June 20: 7pm-8pm)! Click here to register. Red Lantern Bicycles & Café is located at 345 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton. Please call 718.889.5338 for details.

Yummy Match-up: peanut butter smoothie + apple cider donut!

Wed, 08 May 2013 14:42:00 -0400

There's enough Myrtle love to spread around, always--all up and down the Avenue! Paired up a delish, cold and smooth, peanut butter smoothie from Move with Grace with a soft, fresh apple cider donut from The Joint on Myrtle. Now THAT was a good snack! Stop in and check out Move with Grace Yoga, Pilates and Dance Studio's fresh juice and smoothie bar. Move with Grace is located at 469 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. Call 718.230.0013 for further info. Stop in at The Joint on Myrtle Avenue for an apple cider donut or choose from the delicious assortment of other desserts, including vegan selections! The Joint on Myrtle is located at 471 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street (yep, Grace and T&T are right next door to one another) and can be reached at 347.761.1455 for further info.

Bikes on Myrtle -- stop in today!

Wed, 08 May 2013 14:15:00 -0400

Bikes on Myrtle at 478 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street re-opened ten days ago after closing the store for 3 weeks for a Spring spruce up. They have now re-opened--sparkly and rearing to go! Bikes on Myrtle carries a wide variety of bicycles, including Bianchi, Schwinn and GT and also a wide variety of biking accessories. They also carry a wide variety of children's bikes and trikes! Bikes on Myrtle is located at 478 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. Call them at 347.788.0478 for additional information, or just stop in!

Spring Planting: Local Schools Help Beautify Myrtle Av

Tue, 07 May 2013 15:50:00 -0400

Yesterday and today, the 7s and 8s (7 and 8 year olds) from Greene Hill School planted ornamental annuals in tree pits along Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn BID provided nearly 1000 seedlings and the tools needed to plant them. Students planted begonias and red salvias in 12 tree pits from Adelphi to Waverly. Spring planting continues later this week. Students from Trilok and PS20 are scheduled to plant annuals in other tree pits along Myrtle. In mid-May, the BID will install perennial plants in Myrtle tree pits that dont already have them. All ornamental plantings are protected by Myrtles award-winning tree guards, which were supported by funding from NYS Main Street and NYS DEC.

Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: for any age! Choose private lesson, classes and open house

Tue, 07 May 2013 14:35:00 -0400

Over 40 and thinking about getting started in Brazilian jiu-jitsu? Check out Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu's blog today about getting started over age 40. Can you do it? BBJJ says--absolutely! Check out the blog post about getting started. And please come back and share when you give it a go! Just $19.95 will get you a free uniform and a private lesson at BBJJ! Or stop in along with a current BBJJ student for BBJJ's Friends and Family open house night on May 15th at 7pm. BBJJ will go over the basics of self defense, help you feel extra comfortable taking a first class, and they will show you how to start getting and staying fit and confident. Read more about BBJJ instructors here. BBJJ is located at 412 Myrtle Avenue and can be reached at 718.403.0067. photo credit: Frederick V. Nielsen II

Soco is now serving LUNCH!

Tue, 07 May 2013 12:05:00 -0400

Starting Tuesday, May 14th, Soco will also be open for lunch, T-F, 12noon thru 4pm! New lunch menu and happy hour cocktails. The lunch menu will be comprised of many SoCo dinner favorites plus some brand new lunch offerings. And what's lunch without...happy hour cocktail specials! Stop in and enjoy! Soco is located at 509 Myrtle Avenue between Ryerson and Grand. Please call them at 718.783.1936.

$50 off transition lenses at DC Optics!

Mon, 06 May 2013 12:48:00 -0400

$50 off transition lenses at DC Optics! Dr. Cheng, optometrist and owner of the eponymous optical store has sooo much passion and excitement for his work. Good to meet someone with so much talent, passion and excitement for his work that he can even make a classroom of 1st graders shout, "glasses are cool!" Being a big supporter of local business, at DC Optics, with a year supply of contacts or a pair of glasses, you will receive a gift certificate to Le Petit Bakery, Red Lantern Bikes or CakeJoy Bakery. The mission of DC Optics is to provide the highest quality eye care in a relaxed and friendly environment with an emphasis on community outreach and charity work. (DC Optics provides exams and eyewear to children in local schools.) DC Optics is located at 390 Myrtle Avenue and can be reached at 347.504.1121.

Hadas Gallery: call for art!

Mon, 06 May 2013 11:27:00 -0400

Yo Artists! Hadas Gallery is proud to announce the open call for Yo Brooklynites III, the annual community group show. If you are a Brooklyn artist, then this show is for you! All media will be considered. Subject matter must avoid nudity, violence, or sexual content. If interested, please send up to three jpegs of your artwork, size/medium/year, and artist statement to joshua@hadasgallery.com

Fork Cafe re-opens this weekend, 5/4!

Fri, 03 May 2013 17:28:00 -0400

Fork Cafe at 507 Myrtle Avenue re-opens tomorrow, 5/4 with a revamped look and menu. At the kitchen's helm is Chef Quincy Garner, with restaurant experience in Asian and Cajun cuisine. The former comfy character of Fork Café remains but is amped up with its now full bar, patio space also with full bar and additional seating up front. "We're really excited about Fork Café and can't wait to share our new look and menu! It's truly designed for people to stop in and maximally enjoy!," shared Kim Price, Fork Café owner. Garner's menu includes brunch and dinner specials served 6 days per week. Some menu items include: (appetizers) smoked asparagus, sautéed kale and (big plates) Cajun-Asian inspired chicken and cheese croquettes (hoisin mushroom gravy, Israeli couscous and arugula), buttermilk fried chicken on cheddar cheese waffle biscuit and the house salad; fresh day boat scallops (cashews, corn, kale, blue cheese butter and cherries); seared pork belly (pineapples, sweet basil, cinnamon bread); Asian beef ribs (asparagus, creamy white cheddar grits) and (small plates) Chinese chicken dumplings (spicy aioli), pineapple walnut shrimp, mussels (madras curry broth and toast) and Philly cheese steak (cheddar cheese, house aioli). Fork Café is located at 507 Myrtle Avenue between Ryerson and Grand. Please call 718.622.3675 (FORK) or better yet, just stop in!

Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Lola BKLYN!

Fri, 03 May 2013 13:18:00 -0400

Cinco de Mayo is this coming Sunday (5/5, of course)! It celebrates the Mexican Armys victory at the Battle of Puebla. Folks all over the world commemorate the day, in Mexico and outside of Mexico. It can arguably be said that many folks who hail from or reside in the historic city where the battle took place, Puebla, Mexico, really have a handle on knowing how to celebrate the day big time. Psst, Lola Bklyn'ss executive chef is from Puebla. Garden party at Lola Bklyn! Music, brunch specials, $4 Coronas or grab a bucket of Coronas with friends for $16 and receive complimentary taquitos. Check out the full menu of delicious food and drink here. Lola BKLYN is located at 387 Myrtle Avenue. They can be reached at 718.858.1484.

And the patio's open too! Stop in at Pillow Cafe-Lounge!

Thu, 02 May 2013 16:12:00 -0400

Have you tried the fiesta salad at Pillow Café-Lounge? You should! The fiesta salad is a delish dish which includes black beans with corn and avocado tossed in a lime vinaigrette dressing on a bed of greens. Whew--hit the spot, hit the ball out of the park, hit the high note--you get us. Check out Pillow's menu, which includes a variety of fresh, delicious salads, sandwiches, breakfast, cold, hot and specialty drinks. And with weather like today's--sit out and enjoy the wonderful back yard space. Pillow Café is located at 505 Myrtle Avenue between Grand and Ryerson. Please call to order: 718.246.2711.

Sneak Peek: Leisure Life NYC opens this weekend!

Thu, 02 May 2013 14:26:00 -0400

Leisure Life NYC, a fine men's clothing line specializing in leather goods and accessories, is planning a soft opening this coming weekend at 559 Myrtle Avenue! This husband and wife-owned venture is oozing with style. Check out the finely tailored varsity jackets with pleasingly placed pops of color in the finest of places, across the forearms, on the elbows, on the pockets, at the collar and waist. Leisure Life will carry clothing and accessories by many local Brooklyn designers as well as exhibit visual art by local artists on its walls. Please stop in to say hello to these first time-entrepreneurs. Leisure Life is located at 559 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Classon Avenues.

May Day @ Cielo Bar -- stop in for the Mayweather v. Guerrero Fight, 5/4!

Wed, 01 May 2013 13:53:00 -0400

In addition to having great food and drink, Cielo Bar is fight central, having provided viewing opportunities for key boxing matches since they've opened. Next up, toe-to-toe, ding ding: Mayweather vs. Guerrero on May 4th! Eight time, five-division world boxing champion Floyd Money Mayweather and six time and four-division world champion Robert The Ghost Guerrero will go toe-to-toe at the MGM Grand in Vegas in what's dubbed "May Day: Mayweather vs. Guerrero." Enjoy the fight on the big screens w/great food, great company and terrific drinks. Check out the happy hour specials: $5.00 Mojitos / Caipirinhas / Margaritas $5.00 Well Drinks / Red & White Wines and Sangria $24 Pitchers (Sangria, Mojitos, Margaritas, Caipirinhas) $3 Beers Cielo Bar is located at 476 Myrtle Avenue. Give Cielo a call for more info:(347) 529-4143, but best thing -- stop by! 2 drink minimum

Bike the Branches, Saturday, May 11th

Wed, 01 May 2013 11:12:00 -0400

On Saturday, May 11th, the Brooklyn Public Library invites you to Bike the Branches! This fun and rewarding one-day bike ride gives you a chance to choose your own route to experience Brooklyn's diversity ('Along the Waterfront', 'Brooklyn in the Movies', 'Architectural History', 'Brooklyn Eats' and 'Literary Brooklyn')--and the BPL's network of 60 branches--all while helping to raise critical funds for the Brooklyn Public Library. Between 10am and 5pm on the day of the ride, get your official "passport" stamped at the branches you visit, and then enjoy Central Library's Finish Line Celebration from 5pm to 7pm at Grand Army Plaza. You can sign up to ride (or walk or run!) as an individual or with friends, family or co-workers, and ask your community to pledge their support by sponsoring your ride. Choose your route, visit the BPL branches and explore the borough in a new way! Click here to register today!

An Evening with Mark Bittman, New York Times Food and Opinion Writer

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 13:20:00 -0400

All are invited to this exciting event and opportunity to support the Brooklyn Food Coalition (BFC).
Mark Bittman, New York Times Food & Opinion writer, will speak on "The Future of Food" and will address how we can eat for the health of our bodies and the planet.
All Proceeds go to support the Brooklyn Food Coalition: Working Toward A Healthy, Just, and Sustainable Food System For All!
- General Admin tickets are $20
- Limited amount of student tickets for $10
- VIP Dinner & talk for $175 includes: a 4-course meal, wine, a signed copy of Mr. Bittmans new book "VB6: Eat Vegan Before 6:00 p.m. to Lose Weight and Restore Your Health...For Food", and entry to the talk
Purchase your tickets here. Where: Long Island University in Downtown Brooklyn
Arnold and Marie Schwartz Athletic Center
1 University Plaza (DeKalb and Flatbush Avenues)
When: April 30th
Time: 6PM
Need more info? Visit the BFC website here.

Join Us For a Free Janes Walk in Wallabout this Saturday!

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 12:47:00 -0400

Enjoy the neighborhood this weekend by participating in a Janes Walk through the historic Wallabout neighborhood! Janes Walk, founded on the principles of urbanist and author Jane Jacobs, offers an opportunity for locals to get together to meet, share, learn about and appreciate their neighborhood. The Wallabout walk will be one of more than 100 offered around the city on the weekend of May 4-5. The Wallabout walk will begin at 12:00 at the Prison Ship Martyrs Monument in Fort Greene Park and end in front of 99 Ryerson Street. No registration is required. The walk will explore the Wallabout neighborhood, located in northern Brooklyn near the Brooklyn Navy Yard, and discuss its 380+ year history as a community. The walk will lead past neighborhood landmarks and explore how these places, and the famous residents associated with them, represent the communitys social development over the centuries. The stories will discuss the areas first European settlers, its role in the Revolutionary War, the areas 19th century industrialization, famous residents such as Walt Whitman, and the neighborhood's decline and how these past events and people have defined the revitalized neighborhood we see today. Find more info on The Municipal Art Societys website.

You are in good hands at Clinton Hill Animal Clinic!

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 13:43:00 -0400

Dog breath? Yeah, seriously, check that dog breath! Dr. Dendtler and Dr. Johnson share that it can be an oral health problem. Pet owners, have you checked out Clinton Hill Animal Clinic? Dr. Dendtler and Dr. Johnson have 30+ years of knowledge and experience. Whether in need of wellness exams and vaccines, diagnostic testing, blood analysis, urinalysis, fecal exams; surgery (soft tissue and orthopedic), allergy testing; digital x-rays and sonogram service, intravenous fluid therapy; domestic and international travel certificates (USDA), spay, neuter and declaw; cat boarding, arthritis management, anesthesia and vital signs monitoring or a whole lot more, please give them a call. Clinton Hill Animal Clinic is located at 476 Myrtle Avenue and can be reached at 718.623.3999.

Family fun at P.S. 20 tonight, Friday, 4/26 at 6:30pm!

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:33:00 -0400

P.S. 20 offers family fun tonight! The $3 admissions gets you popcorn, pizza, soft drinks, a historic 1926 animated film and a parent's creativity! Stop in the check out Prince Achmed, a silent film with live piano music by Ursel Schlicht tonight, Friday, April 26th, starting at 6:30pm. The adventures of Prince Achmed is a film by Lotte Reiniger, inspired by tales from "One Thousand and One Nights." Prince Achmed is the oldest surviving animated feature film (1926). Filmmaker Lotte Reiniger invented a silhouette animation technique similar to shadow puppets. PS20 parent Ursel Schlicht creates an improvised soundscape using objects on the inside of the piano, inspired by both the cardboard techniques Reiniger used for the film and the magical surreal scenes of the movie. P.S. 20 is located at 225 Adelphi Street, just off of Willoughby.

Young Writers Present at BLDG 92 for National Poetry Month, Sat., 4/27

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:12:00 -0400

April is National Poetry Month. Tomorrow, Saturday, April 27th from 3:00pm to 4:00pm is a local celebration, stop in and check it out. BLDG 92 at the Brooklyn Navy Yard presents 'Finding Your Voice: Young Writers Celebrating Freedom.' Enjoy a reading of new poetry and prose by talented young writers, ages 7 thru college (Keanu Stowe, Ardelle Stowe, Iyanu Miller, Najaya Royal, Aliah Gilkes, Jaya Samuel, Keredin Samuel, Jamila Wright), mentored by Angeli Rasbury. This public program is supported by The Walt Whitman Project. Light refreshments. Free admission.

Zaytoons Restaurant goodness, yum!

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:22:00 -0400

Yummm, just had a falafel sandwich for a late lunch at Zaytoons Restaurant, 472 Myrtle Avenue. Looks like NearSay is on the same page--in today's article on Zaytoons they ask if you know what falafel is. Our answer is a resounding--yes! Those warm, flavorful, filling pillows of chickpeas on a freshly-made pita, with tahini and wonderful veggies and spices. Oh yeah! Don't forget to check out Zaytoons upcoming event, the Magic of Belly Dance dinner and performance on April 28th! Zaytoons is located at 472 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. Please call (718) 623-5522 for details.

Cookie Decorating Contest and Local School Fundraiser at Le Petit Bakery

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 16:39:00 -0400

Calling all kid artists and cookie lovers! Le Petit Bakery at 354 Myrtle Avenue is holding a cookie decorating contest on Sunday, May 5th. Please sign up in advance at Le Petit Bakery (by April 27th) so that they are able to prepare supplies for you! The cookie decorating contest will take place between 1pm and 3pm. Okay, more of the details: For who? Grades 1-2: contest is 1pm-2pm Grades 3-4: contest is 2pm-3pm *Judging will take place after each time slot. How to participate: The cost to enter is $10 (in advance) or $12 (at the door/day of event). 25% of proceeds will go towards supporting Arts & Letters Academy) Prizes: 1st prize: winning cookie will be duplicated and sold at the bakery 2nd prize: $10 gift card 3rd prize: $5 gift card Le Petit Bakery is located at 354 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton. Please call 718.875.6500 for additional information.

Citi Bike Share Info Meeting, 4/24

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 16:27:00 -0400

Come out and get information and ask questions on the Citi Bike Share Program. When: Meeting is Wednesday, April 24th from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Where: Benjamin Banneker Academy, 71-77 Clinton Avenue. Please call Alfred Chiodo at Council Member Tish James office for more information.

Call crimestoppers if you have any info on missing teen, Tiffany Ortiz.

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:28:00 -0400

From Fort Greene Patch:
Tiffany Ortiz was last seen at approximately 8:30 a.m. at a home on Saint Edwards Street near Park Avenue on April 20th. Police are asking for the public's help in finding a 13-year-old girl who went missing Saturday morning in Fort Greene. Ortiz stands 5-feet-tall, weighs 90 pounds and has short black hair.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto Crime Stoppers' website atwww.nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.

Photo Credit: NYPD

The People's Hollywood 411 Service Directory: small businesses, filmmakers, musicians, take a look!

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 18:00:00 -0400

Trayce Gardner, founder and executive director of the Brooklyn Young Filmmakers Center (BYFC) has created what she calls the 'People's Hollywood.' The People's Hollywood project connects small grassroots film productions (mostly short films or web series episodes with budgets under $5000) with locations (especially small business locales), crew, and allied artists (music and other art) to help with both production and marketing. BYFC is in the process of creating a directory to match filmmakers, allied artists and locales (business owners). If you are an interested filmmaker, musician, artist or small business located in Fort Greene or Clinton Hill (Fort Greene and Clinton Hill small businesses are the pilot group for now), please take a moment to complete the following surveyif you interested in directory inclusion. Also, take a moment to view the videos on participating small businesses, including three located on Myrtle Avenue businesses (Omar from Falafel House, Janet from Kappella's Salon, Mark from Mark's Gourmet Burgers). Please email or call Brooklyn Young Filmmakers Center at service@wearebyfc.org and 718.935.0490 for further information.

Clinton Hill design stars in today's New York Times! Congrats Teman and Teran!

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 15:16:00 -0400

So great to see interior and jewelry designers, Teman and Teran Evans in today's New York Times! The 6 foot-plus, Harvard grad school-educated identical twins are featured in an article in the newspaper's 'Great Homes and Destinations section' titled, 'I'll Be Your Mirror.' The article discusses their design aesthetic and experience of living together since the womb. We've been fans of Teman and Teran since the first season of HGTV's Design Star. And we thank them for being BIG supporters of shopping local Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. Always LOVE running into them on Myrtle Avenue, at the post office and Ruthie's and Clinton Hill Hardware and Thai 101 and The Polish Bar of Brooklyn...you get the idea. Congrats Teran and Teman!

Earth Day Celebration at Green in BKLYN

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 15:12:00 -0400

Celebrate Earth Day this SUNDAY, APRIL 21st with Green in BKLYN located at 432 Myrtle Ave! EARTH DAY SCHEDULE:
"12-1:00pm: Spoonable Saucy Caramel & Brooklyn Roasting Company Coffee
A taste of Spoonable's saucy caramel and a cuppa joe from the Brooklyn Roasting Company and you're tasting the best of both while supporting local businesses. Wake up! Time to eat local!

"1:30-2:30pm: Fresh Fanatic
Fresh Fanatic, the all natural, local and organic market and cafe samples an array of fresh deserts and dips made in-house plus tasty cheeses and sandwich platters. All from Mother Earth!

"3:00-4:00pm: Myrtle Eats Fresh
Myrtle Eats Fresh will share recipes, talk local foods & hand out samples of treats from local farms and folks. Grow and eat)local!

" 4:30-5:30pm: Super Foxy Sweets Vegan Fudge & Raaka Virgin Chocolate
Raaka Chocolates and Super Foxy Sweets will be handing out their locally made virgin chocolate & vegan fudge. A sweet little celebration of local treats & sweet Mama Earth!

" All Day: Pick a Prize...
Spend $43 or more (for Earth Day's 43nd year) and be entered in our raffle for awesome eco-friendly treasures - foods & other treasures from our treasured earth!

"We hope you'll join us for some (or all) of the fun on Earth Day. We love Earth Day, we love being here & we love you!" - Elissa @ Green in BKLYN.
Visit the store online at www.greeninbklyn.com

TONIGHT!! 35th District City Council Forum & Voter Registration Drive

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 15:06:00 -0400

The Ingersoll Resident Association, in partnership with the Walt Whitman and Farragut Resident Associations, will host a City Council Forum & Voter Registration TONIGHT, Thursday, April 18th at the Ingersoll Community center located at 177 Myrtle Ave. Voter registration begins at 6:30PM and panel discussion with City Council candidates at 7PM. All are welcome!

Supermarkets as common spaces for all people -- Judith Fourny at Gnarly Vines!

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 11:23:00 -0400

Paris-born, Brooklyn-based artist, gilder and curator, Judith Fourny, had supermarkets heavily on her mind over a year ago when she approached Associated Supermarket on Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street about the use of their discarded sales posters. "I love the fact that supermarkets are a common space for all people. They are a common space for everyone, regardless of socio-economic status or culture. They serve all of our basic needs. It is a destination for all of us," shared Judith. In an untitled photographic series which includes thirty 18" x 24" posters, Judith takes photos of people in front of supermarket posters. Click here for Judith's website. Judith works out of her Brooklyn Navy Yard studio. The artist says she has "always been inspired by the beauty in human relationships" and uses art as a medium to reveal their hidden brilliance. Judith's series of posters will be up through May 5th at Gnarly Vines, 350 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi. BIG BONUS: check out the art while enjoying this week's Gnarly Vines wine tastings! Wednesday, April 17th, 6p-9p Unmistakeably Biodynamically Minervois! Biodynamic Wines from the Hemp Cellars of Chateau Maris. 2009 Chateau Maris 'Nouvelles Fraiches' Grenache, Minervois, France - $26 2009 Chateau Maris 'Natural Selection' Syrah - Minervois, France - $18 2009 Chateau Maris 'Les Planels' Syrah - Minervois, France -$34 Thursday, April 18th, 5p-8p Greek, French and two Italian wines 2012 Mas de Gourgonnier Rose - Les Baux de Provence, France - $16 2011 Domaine Sigalas Assyrtiko Santorini - Greece - $27 2010 Ciacci Piccolomoni d'Aragona, Rosso di Montalcino - Tuscany, Italy - $25 2007 Mocali, Brunello di Montalcino - Tuscany, Italy - $44/750ml and $24/375ml Friday, 4/19, 6p-9p Champagne and New Zealand NV Montaudon Champagne Brut - Champagne, France - $36 NV Montaudon Grand Rose - Champagne, France - $44 2011 Mohua Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough - $15 2009 Mohua Pinot Noir Central Otago - $24 15% off all wines poured during the tastings!

Water Towers Photo Exhibit at The Joint on Myrtle, opening on Sat., 4/20!

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:47:00 -0400

Have you caught the new artwork up at The Joint on Myrtle yet? Stop in and check it out! Author and photographer, Ronnie Farley, exhibits some of her most recent work, 'New York Water Towers.' The art opening, a garden party and soiree, will take place Saturday, April 20th from 6pm-10pm at The Joint on Myrtle (471 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street). Stop by to celebrate the arrival of Spring and Ronnie's artwork. Here's more about the exhibit from Ronnie: New York Water Towers is a twenty-year project documenting New York Citys water tanks, to be published as a monograph this year. Through photographs and informational text, this body of work examines the relationship between the built-up environment of urban people and their vital water supply. Water towers are contemporary relics containing a sacred substance, "the elixir of life," hidden in plain view amongst the brick, mortar and steel of mans creation. The more these gentle giants become hemmed in and disappear from view, replaced by a higher and higher skyline, we lose one visual reminder of a connection to the natural world and the delicate balance of our existence. In a city teeming with human life and activity, these water towers are the umbilical cord to our survival. It is my intent with this work to inspire a more visceral approach to water, away from commoditization for industrial expansion and urban growth, towards understanding it as a key life-support for all living things on Earth.

Park Avenue Update: Daylighting Approved for 7 Locations

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:17:00 -0400

DOT approved our request to install daylighting regulations at seven locations on Park Avenue! Parked cars near the approach of an intersection can obstruct the visibility of drivers and pedestrians crossing that intersection. Daylighting is a safety measure where parking is restricted within 20-30 feet of the approach to an intersection, allowing drivers and pedestrians a better field of vision. Daylighting can improve safety for both pedestrians and drivers alike. Following are the locations where DOT will install no standing regulations within the next 90 days: Westbound Park Avenue at the approach to North Oxford Street; Eastbound Park Avenue at the approach to Waverly Avenue; Westbound Park Avenue at the approach to Waverly Avenue; Eastbound Park Avenue at the approach to Ryerson Street; Westbound Park Avenue at the approach to Grand Avenue; Eastbound Park Avenue at the approach to Grand Avenue; Eastbound Park Avenue at the approach to Steuben Street. The Park Avenue Safety Plan was published in the summer of 2012, after a multi-year community-led effort. Stay tuned for more updates...

Day 'n Night Gourmet Grocery Store opens at 480 Myrtle Avenue!

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 15:22:00 -0400

Day 'n Night Gourmet Grocery store is open for business! After a long wait and build-out, the commercial life returned to the 480 Myrtle Avenue storefront this past Saturday. Stop in and shop! Say hello to Billo (who formerly owned the 99 cent store at the same location) and his business partners in this new venture. The store carries a wide variety of groceries, milk, eggs, bread and cheese, gourmet popcorn, chips and other snacks and soft drinks. Additionally, the store includes a salad bar, a fresh juice bar and fresh fruit smoothies section, a sandwich section (bread, rolls, heros, bagels, wraps), lottery and so much more, stop in! What more is in store? Backyard seating and fresh produce selection out front. Local college students get 10% off with ID. Visa, MasterCard and EBT payments welcome. Free delivery (w/minimum $10 purchase). Day 'n Night Gourmet Grocery is located at 480 Myrtle Avenue, near Hall Street. Call 718.230.4516 for further detail.

Nikki's Beauty Supply store having huge sale, closing

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 12:00:00 -0400

Nikki's Beauty Supply Store at 510 Myrtle between Ryerson and Grand is having a huge sale, 30% off everything in the store. Hair pins, rollers, makeup, hair colorings, blow dryers, tweezers, shampoos and conditioners...Nexxus, Aveda, Biolage, Infusium, Paul Mitchell, Miss Jessie's, Joico--everything must go. Nikkis is located in the lot (which also includes Associated Supermarket) slated for construction/redevelopment. All of the businesses located in this lot must relocate by the end of the month. Please call Nikki's for more detail: 718.789.6374.

Info Session to Discuss Upcoming Myrtle Avenue Construction Projects

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 13:41:00 -0400

Senator Velmanette Montgomery and Council Member Tish James have coordinated an informational session to discuss the two separate, upcoming contruction/redevelopment projects for Myrtle Avenue. Associated Supermarket owners will be present to discuss the upcoming renovations and plans. NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) will be on hand to discuss the upcoming Myrtle Avenue Pedestrian Plaza. The information session will take place on Monday, April 15th at 7pm, Willoughby Walk (185 Hall Street/Basement Community Room).

Family Literacy Fair at LIU tomorrow! Free books for kids!

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 13:27:00 -0400

This Saturday, April 13th, from 11am-2pm at Long Island University - Brooklyn, Jumpstart, a national early childhood organization, is hosting a large community literacy fair, Jumpstart for a Day. This is an annual festival celebrating literacy and service that brings volunteer groups from local universities and organizations together with young children, this will be LIU's first year hosting JFAD in Brooklyn.

McKinney, MARP Honor Tree Guard Artists

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:12:00 -0400

This morning, Susan S McKinney Secondary School of the Arts gave awards to dozens of students for various academic achievements, such as best grades and most improved. Three students received special recognition for their original tree guard panel designs that were selected in the second round of tree guard installations on Myrtle Avenue. Kayla Lewis, Emily Vilorio, and Lanique Green (left to right in photo), were each called to the front of the auditorium, accompanied by a round of cheers from their classmates. MARP presented each artist with a laser-cut steel proof of their design. Proofs are made before a design can be manufactured into a tree guard. After that, they can be displayed and enjoyed as artwork. Each of the students designs were made into a tree guard and tree bench and installed on Myrtle Avenue. Following are the locations: Kayla Lewis guard is east of N. Portland; bench is at Waverly; Emily Vilorio guard is at 471 Myrtle between Washington and Hall; bench is at N. Portland; Lanique Green guard is at 414 Myrtle between Vanderbilt and Clinton, bench is east of N. Portland. Congratulations to these three artists and all the other students who received awards today! Myrtles tree guards are both functional and durable, and offer a canvas that reflects local creativity. They were created with a modular design so that each set of panels can have a unique, laser-cut design, meeting the Partnerships goal of creating more opportunities to incorporate local public art into the streetscape. The newest tree guard panels were designed by 24 local artists, who were selected through an open call for public art. Phase II was funded by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn BID, NYS DEC Urban and Community Forestry, and NYS Main Street.

Pratt MFA Open Studios, today (4/12) and tomorrow (4/13)!

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:12:00 -0400

Pratt Institute's MFA program will open its studio and gallery doors to the general public today, Friday, April 12, 2013 from 5:00-9:00pm and tomorrow, Saturday, April 13, 2013 from 12:00-6:00pm. Live performances and a reception will take place on Friday night, starting at 8pm at the Flushing Ave Studios. A performance schedule is available here. 100 MFA candidates will exhibit artwork in various forms, including photography, painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, new forms, video, performance, installation. There are two addresses where studios are located. Off-campus at 248 Flushing Avenue (loading dock between Ryerson Avenue and Hall Street), elevator to 3rd Floor, and on-campus at 200 Willoughby Avenue. All campus security booths will also have Open Studio maps and general information. Visit the Pratt MFA Open Studios website for a preview of participating artists. Pratt MFA Open Studios website. This event is hosted by the Pratt Artists' League and Pratt's Fine Art Department.

City's 2013 Summer Youth Employment Program Applications Now Available

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:00:00 -0400

Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) applications now available. Click here to apply online or to print out an application to fill out by hand. Hardcopy applications will also be available at local library branches, including the Brooklyn Public Library's Walt Whitman branch, located at 93 St. Edwards Street, just north of Myrtle. For further information call the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development at 800.246.4646.

Maurice Brown Jazz Concert at Farragut Houses, Sat., 4/13!

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 11:45:00 -0400

MoCADA presents Maurice Brown in concert. Jazz musician Maurice Brown will perform at Farragut Houses this Saturday, April 13th at 2pm. Stop in to listen to the great sounds of Maurice! Concert will take place at the Farragut Houses Basketball Courts (Navy & York Streets).

'Magic of Belly Dance' Dinner and Performance at Zaytoons Restaurant, Sun., 4/28

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 17:33:00 -0400

"Spring into the Magic of Belly Dance" at Zaytoons restaurant on Sunday, April 28th from 4p-7p. The evening will include a delicious 3-course Middle Eastern dinner from 4pm-5pm, followed by a belly dance performance from 5:30pm-7pm. $20 (or $25 at the door) includes performance, buffet dinner, dessert, soft drinks, coffee and tea. Appetizers: hummus, babaghanouj, tabouleh, fatoush; Entree: chicken kabob, veggie kabob, falafel, kafta kabob, rice; Dessert: baklava, lady fingers and basbousa. Please come out for an evening of good food and good fun. For advance tickets, please call: 347.533.6226. Zaytoons is located at 472 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street.

Free Bike Helmets -- stay safer on wheels!

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 11:18:00 -0400

Stop by the bike helmet fitting event on Sunday, April 21st from 12p to 4p at Commodore Barry Park. Get fitted and receive a free bike helmet -- stay safer on wheels! Event it sponsored by Councilmember Tish James and is in conjunction with NYC DOT, NYC Parks & Recreation and Transportation Alternatives.

The Silly Dance Off Contest Returns to the Emerson Bar, Sat., 4/5!

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 18:58:00 -0400

The Silly Dance Off returns to the Emerson Bar. It's this Saturday, 4/6 from 10pm until 2am. Get those moves ready! Here's more from the Emerson: Maybe you were at the first Silly Dance contest, or maybe you've heard the stories that became legends that became stories again, or maybe you've never heard of it and have no clue what the hell I am talking about. Well it does't matter because IT"S BACK!!! THE GOAL: The Silliest Dancer Wins a $50 Bar Tab, The Silliest Costume Wins a $50 Bar Tab (you could win BOTH), and a $25 Bar Tab goes to the 2nd place dancer. Free drinks will be given away to silliest dancers after each round. You do not need to dress up to enter! THE STRUCTURE: FOUR 20-30 minute DJ'd rounds with breaks in between for drinking and resting (last time people nearly danced themselves into coma so we've added breaks and shorter dancing rounds, but more rounds! YAY! you're welcome...) NO ELIMINATION (Except self elimination ---- ummmm and by that I mean removing yourself from the contest....) A SECRET PANEL of judges will determine the winner after round four by a scientific means of calculating silliness in each round and averaging that out and then multiplying that by 54 and dividing by 62 then spilling coffee on it and determining the winner by an in-house developed Rorschach test. You can REGISTER with Max Power at any time BUT REMEMBER the more rounds you are in the more chance you have to WIN BIG and DRINK FREE all night!!! So come down, dance, get your silly on or just sit and watch as history is made once again with one of the funnest, funniest, happiest nights you'll be sure to encounter in your life! Silly Music Provided During Each Round by DJ MAGGIT (John Keen, Blues Clues, Storage Wars...) Other Music provide by MAX POWER! FREE FUN ALL NIGHT LONG! WHEN: Saturday APRIL 6th, 2013 10pm-2am... (registration for first round opens at 9:30, music and party all night 'til 4am!!!) WHERE: The Emerson, 561 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Classon WHY: Because we love you... image: hand drawn By John Keen. Ink and colored pencil, March 2013.

21 Tara relocates to new digs on the Avenue!

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 13:44:00 -0400

Scarves, hats, rings and bracelets with semi-precious stones, shoulder bags, wallets and decorative masks are just a few of the wonderful items available at 21 Tara. Placed around the store on shelves and colorful baskets, 21 Tara boasts a cornucopia of wonderful store items, stop in! 21 Tara recently relocated from smaller digs just off of Myrtle Avenue into its current 1100sf space at 388 Myrtle Avenue between Clermont and Adelphi. The store's brand new signage includes both an awning and shingle. A MARP $500 facade grant and graphic design assistance helped with the completed exterior look.

T-Mobile Re-Opens Today, 4/3!

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 10:23:00 -0400

T-Mobile, the popular cell phone store, opens today at 436 Myrtle Avenue between Clinton and Waverly, stop in! T-Mobile relocated from its original space, closed more than 4 months ago due to construction plans at the site. Other stores, including Associated Supermarket on Myrtle and Hall have also or are in the process of moving to the construction as well.

Job Opportunity: Mark's Gourmet Burgers

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 18:12:00 -0400

Mark's Gourmet Burgers to hire two part-time kitchen staff members. Experience working in a commercial kitchen is necessary. If interested, please email resumes to: marksgourmetburgersllc@gmail.com Mark's Gourmet Burger is located at 441 Myrtle Avenue, corner of Waverly Avenue.

Associated Supermarket Shares New Floor Plan

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 13:58:00 -0400

Take a look at Associated Supermarket's post-construction floor plan. It includes space for internally located shopping carts and expanded and prominently positioned fresh salad bar, produce, deli and baked goods sections. Associated Supermarket will be closed by the end of the month, temporarily but long-term as owners begin contruction to redevelop the entire lot. Connect with Associated Supermarket on Facebook and Twitter for updates. Associated Supermerket is located at 492 Myrtle Avenue between Hall and Ryerson.

Myrtle Eats Fresh at the Just Food Conference 2013

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 13:30:00 -0400

The 2013 Just Food Conference is happening now! If you aren't there already you can come tomorrow! Saturday, March 30th 8AM-6:30pm at the Food & Finance High School, 525 West 50th Street. Join us from 10:30-11:45AM for the Myrtle Eats Fresh Farm to Neighborhood panel discussion with local chefs, farmers and businesses that bring local food products to our community. The Farm to Neighborhood program works to connect regional farmers with neighborhood food outlets. The mission is to support our regional agriculture economy as well as our hyper local economy. Attendees will hear the experiences of farmers, merchants, chefs, and MARP staff about how connections are being made in the Fort Greene & Clinton Hill communities.

Speakers include:
Aaron Grosbard, FarmersWeb
Bryn Roshong, Winter Sun Farms
Consulting Executive Chef at Cornerstone Restaurant Danielle Saunders
Andrew Braddock, Clawhammer Farm
Courtney Durfee, J. Glebocki Farms
Kallie Weinkle, Farmigo
Moderated by: Kassy Nystrom, MARP
Buy your tickets TODAY by clicking HERE
We hope to see you there!

Open House at Unity Preparatory School on Sat., 3/30

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 15:33:00 -0400

Unity Preparatory School to hold an open house event on Saturday, March 30th from 11:30am until 1pm. Location: 432 Monroe Street, in the school auditorium. Searching for a middle school? Stop in to learn more about the school's academic, co-curricular and civic engagement programs. To RSVP or find out more, please contact: info@unityprep.org or 212.437.8372.

4th Annual Biz Expo at St. Joseph's College is April 6th -- mark your calendars!

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 15:12:00 -0400

The 4th Annual Brooklyn Business Expo is quickly approaching-- Thursday, April 4th from 11p-4p. It will be held on the campus of St. Joseph's College (Tuohy Hall--245 Clinton Avenue). Sponsored by St. Joseph's College and The Brooklyn Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, this year's theme is Rebuilding Business, Weathering Hard Times. The Expo is absolutely FREE of cost to attendees. Geared toward small business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs and the firms that serve these groups, the Expo will feature interactive workshops, panel discussions, vendor exhibitions, and networking opportunities for small business entrepreneurs. The Expo offers participating businesses and entrepreneurs the opportunity to meet and discuss products, services and the issues involved with running a small business. Join us for the day, meet with your neighboring businesses, exchange ideas and showcase your business! The Fourth Annual Brooklyn Business Expo is being held on the campus of St. Josephs College in Tuohy Hall, 245 Clinton Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11205 on Thursday, April 6, 2013 from 11 4 pm and is expected to draw participants from across the five boroughs. In collaboration with: SBDC of Brooklyn, Fort Greene SNAP, Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership, Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation, The Office of Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz and the Office of Council Member Letitia James. Call 718.940.5857 or email Mamie Summers at msummers@sjcny.edu for further information.

Myrtle Tree Guard Spotlight: "Squiggly"

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:03:00 -0400

Today, we take our first look at one of the student-designed panels, Squiggly, by Vera Arno from Greene Hill School. Says Vera: When I was first trying to create a design, I sat down with my purple marker and paper and the idea just came to me and I started making some squiggly lines. I made it because it was simple and it was something that I thought of at the moment. I like it that it's simple and I enjoyed creating it. I really didn't think I would win, I was just doing it because it was fun. I'm glad that I get to share my art with the neighborhood so that everyone can see it and enjoy it. I think it's cool that anyone who comes to the neighborhood and passes by will get to see something that I made! Locations for Squiggly: Bench is near the new Pharmacy at 355 Myrtle @ Adelphi; Guard is near DC Optics at 390 Myrtle between Clermont and Vanderbilt. Myrtles tree guards are both functional and durable, and offer a canvas that reflects local creativity. They were created with a modular design so that each set of panels can have a unique, laser-cut design, meeting the Partnerships goal of creating more opportunities to incorporate local public art into the streetscape. The newest tree guard panels were designed by 24 local artists, who were selected through an open call for public art. Stay tuned for more spotlights&

Associated to close temporarily, construction to take one year

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 18:04:00 -0400

Associated Supermarket at 492 Myrtle Avenue between Hall and Ryerson will close by the end of March. This closure will be temporary but long-term while construction takes place. Construction is scheduled to last approximately one year. Both property and store owners have confirmed the stores return upon construction completion. The plan includes both residential and commercial development, which in the end will include a renovated 13,000+sf Associated commercial space plus residential development. The entire lot is zoned R7A which allows for an up to eight story building, but we will report the details or extent of the construction as soon as we know more. Please stay connected for updates. Associated Supermarket is working earnestly to make this period, which will be rough for all, as easy as possible under the circumstances. Associated will offer free delivery and pickup services starting April 15th and will also run a shuttle bus for at least a month from Myrtle Avenue to their other two locales: Associated at 367 Waverly Avenue between Lafayette and Greene Avenues and Brooklyn Fare at 200 Schermerhorn Street between Hoyt and Bond Streets. Connect with Associated Supermarket via Facebook (Associated Supermarket 492 Myrtle Ave) or Twitter (@492MyrtleAve) for updates. As Associated prepares to close their doors for now, they are offering big sales on groceries, 20% off beginning today. Other businesses that were once located in this lot now slated for redevelopment include: Bergen Bagels (now at Myrtle Hall, 536 Myrtle Avenue); T-Mobile (reopening in less than a month in its new space at 436 Myrtle); Yes Cleaners (relocating to 570 Myrtle Avenue); New Grace Kitchen (now at 545 Myrtle Avenue). Please stay connected to the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership website for Myrtle Avenue business information. Connect to Associated Supermarket via Facebook or email them at 492Myrtle@guzmancorp.net for updates on store renovation and reopening information.

PS 20 Arts Showcase on March 22!

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 13:24:00 -0400

PS 20 is opening its doors to the whole community to share the creativity and talent coming out of the school's band, chorus, art and farming classes! Head over on March 22 if you'd like to enjoy a night of music, performance and fine art! It's just $4, and supports great programs at a local public school!

Thursday, March 22, 2013
6:30pm
225 Adelphi Street (betw. Dekalb & Willoughby Aves.)
$4

4 Encore Performances: A History of Launching Ships RETURNS, 3/14 thru 3/17 !

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 15:40:00 -0400

Beginning tonight, A History of Launching Ships returns to the Brooklyn Navy Yard's BLDG 92 for four encore performances. Performance dates are March 14-17 at 8pm, including a Q&A with the playwright and director + artists whose work is currently on display in BLDG 92's current "Reflections on Rosie" exhibit after the March 15th performance. Purchase tickets through SmartTix by clicking here. Here's more about A History of Launching Ships from the website: "A History of Launching Ships is the first-ever theatrical production at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. This site-specific production will lead audiences through the three-floor museum over the course of the performance, stopping to watch scenes among BLDG 92's exhibits. The Yards spirit and elements of its history act as seeds for the plays mysterious story of four women isolated together inside the gates of a Naval Commandants home on the banks of an unnamed bay. Playwright Avi Glickstein has used the story of real-life Revolutionary heroine Elizabeth Burgin and archival materials from BLDG 92s collection, as well as the gothic New York tales of Washington Irving, as a jumping-off point to create a uniquely American, ghostly tale of his own that echoes the Yards history as a center of innovation, reinvention, and sacrifice in service of a larger purpose." In the winter of 1779, a woman named Elizabeth Burgin defied New York Citys British occupiers by helping hundreds of patriots escape from prison ships anchored offshore of what is now the Brooklyn Navy Yard. With a bounty on her head, she fled the city. A History of Launching Ships, a new play by Avi Glickstein, joins Burgin during her flight from the British and places her in the middle of a fantastical tale that echoes the gothic stories of Washington Irving. The play, commissioned by Polybe + Seats and written for the unique environment of The Brooklyn Navy Yard Center at BLDG 92, tells the story of the three women who take Burgin in and hide her. Each woman seeks an escape from her own reality, and, together, they realize that the only way to freedom might be on a ship they build themselves. The one and a half hour performance will involve some walking and standing on the part of the audience; ramps and elevators will be available. Show your program and get 10% off post-performance dinner and/or drinks at Putnam's Pub & Cooker at 419 Myrtle Avenue (at Clinton Avenue). photo credit: Stephen Yang

Survey: Help Plan Events in the Future Plaza

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 14:48:00 -0400

Please take a few minutes to fill out this online survey. It will help us plan events in Myrtle Avenues future plaza, between Grand and Emerson. The Myrtle Avenue plaza will create 25,000 square feet of new pedestrian space by reconfiguring two blocks of the four-block service road. Enhancements include: improved crossings, new bus stops, dozens of new trees, large planters with ornamentals, game tables, a water fountain, a permanent art installation, moveable tables and chairs, and more. The plaza will also provide space for community programming. Construction is scheduled to begin this summer and will last over a year. For more information about the plaza design, see this blog post . NYU graduate students completing their Capstone project are helping us plan for programming. Thank you for your time.

'Brooklyn Prints' Exhibit at St. Joseph's College -- thru 5/1. reception: 3/16.

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 11:20:00 -0400

Check out the Brooklyn Prints exhibit at St. Joseph's College! Put it on your calendars: now thru May 1st. Nine printmakers, representing a diversity of experiences, but all with Brooklyn on the brain and in the heart, have their work on display at St. Joseph's Alumni Room Gallery at Tuohy Hall. Artist and South of the Navy Yard Arttists (SONYA) co-founder, Kathleen Hayek, said of her work in a recent Fort Greene-Clinton Hill Local interview, "they are all simple creations, done with utter spontaneity, joy and natural forms and color harmonies." Artists reception and talk is this Saturday, March 16th. Brooklyn Prints March 12 May 1, 2013 Artist Reception & Talk - Saturday, March 16, 12 - 3 pm St. Joseph College Alumni Room Gallery, Tuohy Hall 245 Clinton Avenue, Brooklyn, NY Gallery Hours: Wed. 5 - 7 pm and Sat. 12 - 3 pm Featured Artists: Jessica Baker, Alfonse Borysewicz, Kathleen Hayek, Sheila Goloborotko, Tommy Kwak, Marie Lorenz, Cheryl Paswater, Rob Swainston, James Waller Curated by Maribeth Flynn

Myrtle Tree Guard Spotlight: Groundswell

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 09:49:00 -0400

This is the sixth in a series of posts highlighting specific tree guard designs on Myrtle Avenue. Since 2006, artist Deanna Lee has been making motifs of undulating lines that evoke organic forms, natural patterns like waves and wind currents, geological strata, and topographical maps. Her Groundswell tree guard panel design follows this motif. Says Lee: I think the physical location of the panel, being close to the ground, reminds us of essential relationships in nature: Water and nutrients in soil feed the trees, and the trees feed us oxygen. Groundswell conveys the energy coursing within all forms of life, our connections to nature, and a rise in protecting the presence of nature in our communities. Locations for Groundswell: Bench is in the southbound B69 bus stop, on Vanderbilt just south of Myrtle; Guard near Hardee Chinese Restaurant, 351 Myrtle between Carlton and Adelphi. Myrtles tree guards are both functional and durable, and offer a canvas that reflects local creativity. They were created with a modular design so that each set of panels can have a unique, laser-cut design, meeting the Partnerships goal of creating more opportunities to incorporate local public art into the streetscape. The newest tree guard panels were designed by 24 local artists, who were selected through an open call for public art. Stay tuned for more spotlights&

Your Myrtle Ave Itinerary for Dine in Brooklyn 2013

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 11:23:00 -0400

Are there so many local options for Dine in Brooklyn that you just cant decide where to go? Do not fear, weve taken all the work out of it this year and put together a handy schedule for how to most strategically eat your way through restaurant week in the neighborhood. Here it goes: Monday, March 11: Kick off restaurant week right away with lunch at FIVE SPOT SUPPER CLUB (459 Myrtle) Tuesday, March 12: Visit LOLA BKLYN for dinner on Tuesday and enjoy their weekly trivia night (387 Myrtle). Wednesday, March 13: Stay in with some dinner at home. Thursday, March 14: Spice up the end of the week with some Latin fare from LUZ (177 Vanderbilt). Friday, March 15: Take a friends recommendation on another participating restaurant. Saturday, March 16: Start Saturday off with a soul-food filled brunch at FIVE SPOT SUPPER CLUB (459 Myrtle). Sunday, March 17: Head back to LOLA BKLYN (387 Myrtle) to sample their brunch menu on this lazy Sunday. Monday, March 18: Dust off the Monday blues at MAGGIE BROWN (455 Myrtle), and dine before 7:30 to enjoy happy hour. Tuesday, March 19: Let yourself take a break for one day before the final push. Wednesday, March 20: Take a long lunch or enjoy a lively dinner at MOJITO CUBAN CUISINE (82 Washington Ave). Thursday, March 21: Enjoy a relaxing dinner at the cozy PUTNAM'S PUB & COOKER (419 Myrtle) to congratulate yourself on successfully taking advantage of yet another Dine in Brooklyn Week. Try to snag even more deals at Putnam by catching happy hour from 3-7pm, where drinks start at just $2!

Dine in Brooklyn Week 2013: March 11-12

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 13:26:00 -0400

As Boro Prez Marty Markowitz likes to say at this time of the year, "Foodies, the wait it over." Brooklyn's Restaurant Week: Dine-In Brooklyn kicks off MONDAY! Dine-In Brooklyn is a 10-day affair, March 11 thru March 21. This are six Myrtle Ave area restaurants offering brunch, lunch and dinner deals during the week. Brunch will cost $20.13 for two, lunch is $20.13 for one, and dinner will be $28 for one. Beverages, tax, and tip not included in prices. Please note whether restaurants are participating in brunch (B), lunch (L) or dinner (D). Participating Myrtle Avenue area restaurants include: LOLA BKLYN (B, L, D) 387 Myrtle Avenue (Clermont & Vanderbilt) (718) 858-1484 www.bistrolola.com FIVE SPOT SUPPER CLUB (B, L) 459 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly & Washington Avenues) (718) 852-0202 www.fivespotsoulfood.com LUZ (D) 177 Vanderbilt Avenue (Myrtle & Willoughby) (718) 246-4000 www.luzrestaurant.com MAGGIE BROWN (D) 455 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly & Washington) (718) 643-7001 www.maggiebrownrestaurant.com MOJITO CUBAN CUISINE (B, L, D) 82 Washington Avenue (Park & Flushing) (718) 797-3100 www.mojitocubancuisine.net PUTNAM'S PUB & COOKER (D) 419 Myrtle Avenue (Vanderbilt & Clinton) (347) 799-2382 www.putnamspub.com

Myrtle Tree Guard Spotlight: Bridge Crossing

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 15:22:00 -0400

This is the fifth in a series of posts highlighting specific tree guard designs on Myrtle Avenue. Small Business Services Commissioner Rob Walsh and his 10-year-old son Liam drew upon their frequent walks across the Brooklyn Bridge for inspiration for Bridge Crossing. Just before being asked to design a tree guard panel, Commissioner Walsh read David McCulloughs book The Great Bridge, about the tremendous vision and determination it took to complete the epic project. Says Commissioner Walsh: The Brooklyn Bridge is an icon of Brooklyn, and represents not only special moments for me and my son, but a special symbol for the borough of Brooklyn and the entire City. Locations for Bridge Crossing: Bench near Red Apple Supermarket, 218 Myrtle between Ashland and Fleet. Guard near Connecticut Muffin, 423 Myrtle @ Clinton. Myrtles tree guards are both functional and durable, and offer a canvas that reflects local creativity. They were created with a modular design so that each set of panels can have a unique, laser-cut design, meeting the Partnerships goal of creating more opportunities to incorporate local public art into the streetscape. The newest tree guard panels were designed by 24 local artists, who were selected through an open call for public art. Stay tuned for more spotlights&

The State of Menswear: Thursday @ Myrtle Hall!

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 17:04:00 -0400

For the final Black Artstory Month event, weve got something for your inner fashionista! We are thrilled to present the lecture "The State of Menswear" by Randal Jacobs, providing a critical analysis of the traditional and modern "Dandy", "Prep" and "gender neutral" clothing trends and how they currently affect and influence menswear styles on a global scale.

Event details:
Myrtle Hall
536 Myrtle Avenue
(Entrance in rear facing Willoughby Avenue, access through parking lot or Myrtle gates. It is situated on the back side of a building housing a Bergen Bagel and Khims grocery store.)
Thursday, February 28, 2013
7pm - 9pm
The event is free and open to the public! Please bring a photo id to enter building.

About Randal Jacobs:
Randal Jacobs calls the small parish of Gadsden, Alabama, home. Mr. Jacobs began his career in fashion while attending Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. While studying business management, he began to sell vintage apparel from the basement of his home. His vintage sales blossomed into a weekend boutique called "1131". 1131 was the driving force behind his decision to pursue his fashion career and cross register at a neighboring university enrolling in a Fashion Show Production class. Using his business and leadership skills, he was able to become Director of the Spring Show and went on to produce one of most phenomenal and well orchestrated shows in the history of the university.

With his fashion palette yet quenched, he decided to follow his passion and move to London to study Fashion Marketing. While in London, Mr. Jacobs received a greater understanding of the fashion industry by interning at GQ (UK) and working at M.A.C. Models as a Booker and Creative Director. Immediately upon graduation from American Intercontinental University, he landed a job as a Fashion Journalist; Trends and Accessories writer for Fashion Windows in Milan, Italy. While working with Fashion Windows, Randal reviewed International Fashion Presentations in Milan, New York, London and Paris. During his tenure in Milan he began to manage models independently and gained experience as a stylist for Glamour (Italia) and Grazia (Italia).

Since living abroad, Randal re-located to New York and began his NY career with Polo Ralph Lauren in the Womenswear and Advertising Department. Randal presently works as a freelances for Polo Ralph Lauren, MadeWell, Donna Karan Home, Belk and a growing list of clients.

This lecture is sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership and is a part of Black Artstory Month taking place throughout the month of February on Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Brooklyn. For more information, please click here. Photo Credit: BlackBookMag.com.

Help PS 20 Expand Their Urban Farm Program

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 08:50:00 -0400

PS 20 Farms, at Brooklyns PS 20: The Clinton Hill School, located on Adelphi Street between Willoughby and DeKalb Avenues, is gearing up to expand and they need your help!
The farm was founded in 2010 as a PTA created and funded initiative. In 2011 the farm provided the opportunity for kids in two classes to get their hands dirty and learn about urban agriculture. In 2012 the program expanded to provide instruction to four classes. This year, with help from the community, they plan to build beds surrounding the school so that ALL of their 14 classes, over 300 students in Pre-K to 5th Grade, will have the opportunity to get their hands in the dirt and learn about urban agriculture! To learn more and donate to the cause visit their IOBY site here.

Black Artstory Month concludes: the Wiz, MoCADA, fashion

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 13:32:00 -0400

The first annual Black Artstory Month celebration wraps up this week with films and lectures hosted by Brooklyn Young Filmmakers and MoCADA, and a talk on menswear by Randal Jacobs. Make sure to check out Myrtle Windows Gallerys A Patchwork Story before it comes down next week!

Last Tuesday Film Club: THE WIZARD OF OZ vs THE WIZ
Tuesday, February 26, 7pm - 9pm
Trilok Fusion Center for Arts and Education 143 Waverly Avenue
($5 suggested donation)
These two classic films were developed from the same source material but took very different approaches to telling their stories, with THE WIZ adding an urban Black point-of-view. The facilitators will compare the two films and the history of their making. You do not need to have seen the films to enjoy and join in the discussion. Presented by Brooklyn Young Filmmakers, who is featured as the Brooklyn Arts Councils arts organization of the month!

MOCADAs Public Exchange Series: Middle of Nowhere
Ingersoll Community Center, 177 Myrtle Avenue
Wednesday, February 27, 6pm
A feature-length narrative film about a woman coping with her husbands incarceration. Presented by MoCADA and the Ingersoll Tenants Association.

Randal Jacobs: The State of Menswear
Thursday, February 28, 7pm - 9pm
Myrtle Hall, 536 Myrtle Avenue (Entrance in rear facing Willoughby Avenue, access through parking lot or Myrtle gates)
A critical analysis of the traditional and modern Dandy, Prep and gender neutral clothing trends and how they currently affect and influence menswear styles on a global scale.

A Patchwork Story: Myrtle Windows Gallery
February 1 February 28
Connecticut Muffin (423 Myrtle), Karrot (431 Myrtle), Green in BKLYN (432 Myrtle), Marks Gourmet Burgers (441 Myrtle), Anima (458 Myrtle), Kum Kau (462 Myrtle), Miracles Unisex Barber Shop (473A Myrtle), and Soketah (563 Myrtle).
Drawing inspiration from African American quilts, artworks incorporate elements of collage, storytelling, explorations of personal identity and cultural heritage. Featuring works by Melissa Godoy Nieto, Amber Doe, Sophia Dawson, Tony Wells, Jose Baez, Cara Lynch, R. Steve Mosley, Steven J. Mosley and Arlene Jones. To purchase artwork in this exhibit, contact us at (718) 230-1689. Curated by Daonne Huff of MARP.

Freedom Fighters Exhibition
SOCO, 509 Myrtle Avenue
An exhibition celebrating the major personalities, heroes, and icons that assisted in shaping black history in America through their philosophies, socio-political activism, art and personal sacrifices for freedom. Featuring works by Fuse Green, M. Tony Peralta, Suhail Smith, Sam Wilson, Michael 'TTK' Harris, and Rasu Jilani. Hosted and curated by Rasu Jilani of Coup detat Arts.

Remembrance: SONYArtists celebrate Black History Month
DC Optics, 390 Myrtle Avenue
Featured artists include Kennis Baptiste, Nina Allen, June Gaddy, Thomas Kwak, Misha Tyutyunik, Jamilla Jennings. Sponsored by South of the Navy Yard Artists (SONYA).

Photo: Glass Quilt, by R. Steve Mosley

Enter the 2013 PowerUP! Competition for a chance to win $15,000

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 12:10:00 -0400

Brooklyn Library Presents: 2013 PowerUP! Business Plan Competition Who Can Enter? If you are 18 years of age or older, live in Brooklyn and want to start a business in Brooklyn, you are eligible. PowerUP! is a competition to help applicants start a business. What Is the Prize? Nine winners will receive cash awards for entering the best business plan to start a business in Brooklyn. Cash prizes of $15,000 for first place and $5,000 for two runners-up will be awarded, plus valuable business services. What Do I Have to Do to Participate? You must apply to the competition, get a Brooklyn Public Library Card, see a business advisor and attend a few classes. How Can I Apply? You must attend one of the following orientations. Details about applying will be supplied at the orientations. Please Register for an Orientation Online at http://www.bklynpubliclibrary.org/locations/business/events OR call 718.623.7000 (option 4).

P.S. 67's history featured this month on placeMATTERS

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 14:01:00 -0400

P.S. 67, the Charles A. Dorsey School, which is located at 51 St. Edwards Street, just north of Myrtle Avenue, was selected February's 'Place of the Month' by placeMATTERS. Check out the link on the placeMATTERS website. The school, named for its first principal, is located on St. Edwards, next door the the historic Walt Whitman Library and across from St. Michaels-St. Edwards Church. Fort Greene Park is across the street, to the south. placeMATTERS, a project of City Lore and the Municipal Art Society, seeks to promote and protect places that connect New Yorkers to the past, host ongoing cultural and community traditions, and keep our city distinctive. photo credit: NYC Department of Education

Zaytoons Hookah Special

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 13:21:00 -0400

Zaytoons customer appreciation special: Free hookahs with any order of $25 or more. Special is available every night, Monday thru Thursday 'til 10pm. Check out Zaytoons online to order the fresh and delicious menu items. Zaytoons restaurant is located at 472 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. For more information or to place an order, please call 718.623.5522.

Pratt Institute's Main Building Recovery Fund

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 15:46:00 -0400

Thankfully noone was physically hurt in the fire that broke out this past early Friday morning at Pratt Institute's main building. And at this moment of rebuilding and heavy hearts for all that was lost, here's an opportunity to help: The Main Building Recovery Fund. Our thoughts are with you Pratt Community. photo: from the Pratt Institute Department of Fine Arts Facebook page.

FREE Screening of Byron Hurt's Award Winning Documentary Soul Food Junkies

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 14:36:00 -0400

MARP has partnered with the Community Transformation Grant at Bed-Stuy Restoration to host a screening of Byron Hurt's Award Winning Documentary Soul Food Junkies on 2/22/13 6:30 -8:30PM at the Ingersoll Community Center located at 177 Myrtle Ave (Navy/Prince).
Many screenings are being organized throughout Brooklyn on 2/22/13 in order to spark a borough-wide conversation about how we can make environmental and system changes that will improve health outcomes and access to healthy, affordable foods within our communities.
Filmmaker Byron Hurt explores "the health advantages and disadvantages of Soul Food, a quintessential American cuisine. Soul food will also be used as the lens to investigate the dark side of the food industry and the growing food justice movement that has been born in its wake. To learn more about B. Hurt and the film visit here. To lead us in discussion following the film we welcome:
Keith Carr, City Harvest Assistant Manager to Healthy Neighborhoods in Bed Stuyvesant
Nicole Taylor, Heritage Networks Hot Grease Radio Show Host & Producer
T.I. Williams, Community Advocate and Trainer
Emceed by: Dominique Bryant, Ingersoll Resident Association President Co-sponsors to the event are:
The Greene Hill Food Co-op
Stop by their table at the event and learn about the co-op and the benefits of becoming a member.
The Raymond V. Ingersoll Resident's Association
MOCADA - Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts WHERE:
Ingersoll Community Center - map
177 Myrtle Avenue (Navy/Prince)
WHEN:
Friday, February 22nd, 2013
TIME:
Film Screening at 6:30PM
Discussion at 7:45PM
Light refreshments will be served by the Ingersoll Resident Association and T.I. Williams will prepare samples of a Southern recipe with a healthy twist!

Myrtle Tree Guard Spotlight: The Itsy Bitsy Spider

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 11:09:00 -0400

This is the fourth in a series of posts highlighting specific tree guard designs on Myrtle Avenue. MARPs very own Daniel Scorse designed the The Itsy Bitsy Spider panel. The name was a nod to his 18-month old son, Ari, who enjoys the classic childrens song. But the design itself originated from his feelings about the first round of tree guard panels. Daniel is responsible for installing and maintaining the guards and benches, as well as planting ornamentals. I like the negative spaces, the open spaces, in the tree guards, says Scorse. Additionally, I didnt want an abstract design. So I began to think about real objects that have a lot of open space, like webs. Putting the spider in the center was a design challenge for me, but its a fun touch. Locations for The Itsy Bitsy Spider: Bench near Red Lantern Bicycles, 345 Myrtle between Carlton and Adelphi; Guard near Triloks lot, Myrtle @ Waverly. Myrtles tree guards are both functional and durable, and offer a canvas that reflects local creativity. They were created with a modular design so that each set of panels can have a unique, laser-cut design, meeting the Partnerships goal of creating more opportunities to incorporate local public art into the streetscape. The newest tree guard panels were designed by 24 local artists, who were selected through an open call for public art. Stay tuned for more spotlights&

Black Artstory Month: Soul Food Junkies, Quilts, Soul Served, Menswear&

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 18:04:00 -0400

Check out these Black Artstory Month events! You can also visit the months featured exhibitions at any time: Myrtle Windows Gallerys A Patchwork Story, SONYAs Remembrance at DC Optics, and Coup detat Brooklyns Freedom Fighters at SoCo.

Screening: Soul Food Junkies by Byron Hurt
Friday, February 22, 6:30pm 8:30pm
Ingersoll Community Center, 177 Myrtle Ave
Watch the film, and take part in a borough-wide conversation about how we can make environmental and system changes that will improve health outcomes and access to healthy, affordable foods within our communities. Brought to you by MARP, the Bed-Stuy Restoration Community Transformation Grant Coalition , the Greene Hill Food Co-op, the Raymond V. Ingersoll Resident's Association, and MoCADA.

Dr. Myrah Green: The Presence of African Symbols in North American Quilts
Saturday, February 23, 4pm - 6pm
Myrtle Hall, 536 Myrtle Avenue (Entrance in rear facing Willoughby Avenue, access through parking lot or Myrtle gates)
Dr. Myrah Green, Executive Director of Art and Culture in the Office of Government and Community Affairs at The City College of New York, presents an overview of African symbols most used in quilts made in North America stemming from the 19th century to the present.

Soul Served: A Night of Dinner and Poetry
Saturday, February 23, 6:30pm - 9pm Five Spot, 459 Myrtle Avenue FOKUS has curated a three-course meal that is paired with three types of poetry - each centered on the themes of food and community. Our featured artists of the night are: Briannah Hagger, Kearmonie and Malcolm Wicks. DJ Polarity will be spinning Soul Music throughout the night as well. We inviting you to be a poet for the night. The audience will write Haikus at the start of the event and we will read several of them while appetizers are served! RSVP: http://soulserved.eventbrite.com/

Last Tuesday Film Club: THE WIZARD OF OZ vs THE WIZ
Tuesday, February 26, 7pm - 9pm
Trilok Fusion Center for Arts and Education 143 Waverly Avenue
($5 suggested donation)
These two classic films were developed from the same source material but took very different approaches to telling their stories, with THE WIZ adding an urban Black point-of-view. The facilitators will compare the two films and the history of their making. You do not need to have seen the films to enjoy and join in the discussion. Presented by Brooklyn Young Filmmakers, who is featured as the Brooklyn Arts Councils arts organization of the month !

MOCADAs Public Exchange Series: Middle of Nowhere
Ingersoll Community Center, 177 Myrtle Avenue
Wednesday, February 27, 6pm
A feature-length narrative film about a woman coping with her husbands incarceration. Presented by MoCADA and the Ingersoll Tenants Association.

Randal Jacobs: The State of Menswear
Thursday, February 28, 7pm - 9pm
Myrtle Hall, 536 Myrtle Avenue (Entrance in rear facing Willoughby Avenue, access through parking lot or Myrtle gates)
A critical analysis of the traditional and modern Dandy, Prep and gender neutral clothing trends and how they currently affect and influence menswear styles on a global scale.

A Patchwork Story: Myrtle Windows Gallery
February 1 February 28
Connecticut Muffin (423 Myrtle), Karrot (431 Myrtle), Green in BKLYN (432 Myrtle), Marks Gourmet Burgers (441 Myrtle), Anima (458 Myrtle), Kum Kau (462 Myrtle), Miracles Unisex Barber Shop (473A Myrtle), and Soketah (563 Myrtle).
Drawing inspiration from African American quilts, artworks incorporate elements of collage, storytelling, explorations of personal identity and cultural heritage. Featuring works by Melissa Godoy Nieto, Amber Doe, Sophia Dawson, Tony Wells, Jose Baez, Cara Lynch, R. Steve Mosley, Steven J. Mosley and Arlene Jones. To purchase artwork in this exhibit, contact us at (718) 230-1689. Curated by Daonne Huff of MARP.

Freedom Fighters Exhibition
SOCO, 509 Myrtle Avenue
An exhibition celebrating the major personalities, heroes, and icons that assisted in shaping black history in America through their philosophies, socio-political activism, art and personal sacrifices for freedom. Featuring works by Fuse Green, M. Tony Peralta, Suhail Smith, Sam Wilson, Michael 'TTK' Harris, and Rasu Jilani. Hosted and curated by Rasu Jilani of Coup detat Arts.

Remembrance: SONYArtists celebrate Black History Month
DC Optics, 390 Myrtle Avenue
Featured artists include Kennis Baptiste, Nina Allen, June Gaddy, Thomas Kwak, Misha Tyutyunik, Jamilla Jennings. Sponsored by South of the Navy Yard Artists (SONYA).
POSTPONED Shop Talk: The Role of the Barbershop in the Black Community
Miracles Barber Shop, 473A Myrtle Avenue
Zaki and several other barbers from Miracles Barbershop to discuss the role that barbershops play in the Black community and the community in general, how that role has evolved and how it compares to beauty salons and barbershops in other communities.

Kids Classes begin Saturday, 2/16 at CakeJoy Bakery!

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 11:47:00 -0400

Fun times in the neighborhood at CakeJoy Bakery! Socialize with neighborhors as the kiddies socialize and have fun too, learn new things and explore their creative potential. CakeJoy Bakery now offers children's classes in the Crimson Lounge, their large lounge and event space. The regular classes below kick off tomorrow, Saturday, 2/16! Class descriptions are below! Modern Art for Cool Kids (Ages 5 to 7) (Saturday, 11am) Modern Art for Cool Kids is an awesome class for your budding artist. Each week, students will discover a modern artist, explore their art and recreate one of their pieces. At the end of the program, parents, friends and family are invited to an art exhibit where their children's art will be showcased. 8 week session. 45 minute class. Art Jam: Art Making for Young Children with Autism (Ages 4 to 6) (Saturday, 10am) This art class is intended for children ages four to six who are on the Autism Spectrum. The class provides a peaceful and stable environment where children are encouraged to explore the many different materials that can be used to create. There is an emphasis on sensory engagement with special attention on the tactile element. We will focus on the creative process of art making, and on the potential of each child to develop a greater awareness of themselves and others. The sessions will be adapted to the unique abilities and needs of the students. A parent is expected to accompany his or her child during the class, and assist when necessary. 6 week session. 45 minute class. World Dance (3 to 5 years old) (Wednesday, 11am) World Dance is a class where we explore our world's unique cultures through dance and movement games. Each week, a new country will be introduced and students will learn folk dances, songs and games. World Dance is a fun way for young children to learn about different countries and cultures, while exploring basic movement concepts and skills. Parent/caregiver presence is required but participation is optional. 8 week session. 45 minute class. Imagination Yoga (2.5 to 4 years old) (Wednesday, 1pm) Imagination Yoga is a fun and imaginative class which helps children increase their flexibility and build social skills. They will use their fine motor skills and learn traditional yoga poses by integrating song, breathing, stories and games. This class will also help you understand your child's physical development, needs and abilities. Imagination Yoga students practice simple yoga poses, sing familiar songs, act out stories, and engage in yoga games. Imaginations are encouraged to run wild as children climb mountains, become animals, swim in oceans, slay dragons and explore the world on our magical yoga adventures. Parent/caregiver presence is required but participation is optional. 8 week session. 45 minute class. Baby Yoga & Massage -Mommy & Me (birth to 10 months)(Wednesday, 9am) Bend, bond and soothe with us at our Baby Yoga & Massage class. This is a fun and playful yoga class that offers mom (dads or caregivers) a relaxed space to connect with their baby. You will explore yoga postures and breathing to aid with postpartum healing, as well as, the physical and emotional joys and pains of parenthood. You will also learn baby yoga and massage techniques that will support your child's health and promote parent-infant bonding. No yoga experience necessary. 8 week session. 45 minute class. Creative Movement (2 to 5 years old) (Wednesday, 10am) Creative movement is a class tailored for children ages 2-5 years old. This class will encourage self-discipline and self-confidence while incorporating coordination, rhythm and basic dance steps. The creative movement class also uses props and activities designed to introduce dance and movement to toddlers. The class is designed to allow children to work on large motor skills, spatial awareness and flexibility. Skills learned and carried beyond the dance classes include memory development, communication skills, and social involvement. Parent/caregiver presence is required but participation is optional. 8 week session. 45 minute class. Interactive Art (Ages 2.5 to 4) (Monday, 11:30am) TBD CakeJoy Bakery is located at 364 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Clermont. They can be reached at 718.624.2253 (CAKE)

Job Opportunity: Assistant Residence Manager at Navy Green

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 11:15:00 -0400

The Pratt Area Community Council (PACC) is hiring an Assistant Residence Manager for Navy Green. Click here for the complete description and information on how to apply. rendering: PACC

Have a Happy V-Day on Myrtle Avenue!

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 13:09:00 -0400

Hey, we know you may be out there still trying to put a little something special together for Valentine's Day. We are just happy that you can keep it local, aren't you? The weather's not too bad to boot. Enjoy LOVE day, everyone! SHOP Barking Brown, 468 Myrtle, (718) 638-3757 Up to 50% off selected clothing and accessories. Byme Brooklyn, 519 Myrtle, (718) 622-7260 Up to 50% off selected clothing and accessories. Clinton Hill Simply Art & Framing Gallery, 583 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 857-0074. February is Couples Appreciation Month: any couple entering shop will receive $20 off any purchase (excluding books) and complimentary tote bag (while supplies last). Green in BKLYN, 432 Myrtle, (718) 855-4383 Share or read sage love quotes in-store on recycled chalkboards or on the web. Count the ways you love Brooklyn too: PAMPER Joseph Tyler Salon 456 Myrtle, (718) 802-9200 Special V-Day gift cards available for your sweet to use on a variety of products and services at the salon, from hair color to cuts. Polish Bar of Brooklyn, 470 Myrtle, (718) 622-5363 Chocolate manicure and pedicure is $44 and Chocolate brazilian leg and brow wax is $68 (reg. $88). The Owl & the Pussycat, 154 Vanderbilt, (718)522-5697 With Oscar season and Valentine's Day approaching, we thought it would be fun to merge classic romance on the silver screen with classic beautiful hair gifts for your loved one. Check out our special deals for lovers below: Casablanca Invigorating deep conditioning treatment, sensual scalp massage, sexy blowout. You will always have Paris&..$55 It happened one Night All of the pampering detailed above in Casablanca, but including a brand new haircut, style and delicious finish. sigh, swoon&..$99 Some Like It Hot The works: A hair and makeup love affair with OPC's red-carpet makeup artist Tiffany and your fave OPC Stylist. 5-star shampoo, massage, cut, glam blowdry and finish. And if that weren't enuogh, you will receive an automatic 20% off anything in our retail store&..$180 Roman Holiday For the men: Think about Gregory Pecks manly but stylishly groomed Joe wooing Ms Hepburn in 1950s Rome. Heres a chance to get equally sharp and smooth - enjoy a fresh new haircut; neck & brows clean-up, scalp massage and free product samples&..$50 for the dolce vita. All of the above services will be accompanied by movie soundtracks and Hollywood cocktails. PASTRIES Cake Joy, 364 Myrtle, (718) 624-CAKE (2253) Pick up a Love Deluxe Box today (cupcakes, truffles, chocolate covered strawberries, chocolate dipped pretzel rods, heart shaped brownies and a bottle of wine for two) and more. Hueys Chueys, 378 Myrtle Avenue, (347) 529-5220 Loads of sweets for the sweet. Stop in. Le Petit Bakery, 354 Myrtle, (718) 875-6500 Chocolate covered strawberries, heart shaped lollipops, fruit tarts and all types of other baked goodness. DINE Bamboo Lounge & Grill 527 Myrtle, (718) 398-2405 Delicious prix-fixe 3-course dinner will be available. Please call the restaurant for details. Lola Bklyn, 387 Myrtle, (718) 858-1484 Special prix fixe Valentines Night includes lobster bisque, sweet potato & herb cream cheese croquette, tangerine salas, the green devil (rock shrimp ceviche), spicy tofu lettuce wraps, roasted chicken breast, rabbit and mole stew, braised lamb shank and warm chocolate tart. Five Spot Soul Food & Supper Club, 459 Myrtle, (718) 852-0202 V-Day comedy show hosted by comedian, Q. Brooks. Doors open at 9p, show starts at $10. Admission $5 for a limited time, $10 thereafter. Visit vdaycomedy.eventbrite.com for more info or to purchase advanced tickets. Luz, 177 Vanderbilt, (718) 246-4000 Delectable prix-fixe 3-course dinner will be available. Please call the restaurant for details. Maggie Brown, 455 Myrtle, (718) 643-7001 Valentines prix-fixe menu: $50. Delectable 3-course filet mignon dinner including bottle of Bordeaux. Mojito Cuban Cuisine, 82 Washington, (718) 797-3100 Special 3-course prix fixe menu Thai 101 Bistro, 448 Myrtle, (718) 855-8518 Mango duck for 2 plus your choice of appetizers: $25. Zaytoon's, 472 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 623-5522 V-Day $25 per couple prix-fixe special. Couples: choose any appetizers, entrees and desserts from the menu. I'LL TOAST TO THAT Gnarly Vines, 350 Myrtle, (718) 797-3183 Special February 14th and February 15th sipping opportunities. Four Lovely Young Pinots guaranteed to make your Valentine go hog wild - oink, oink! Thursday, Feb 14, 5-8pm 2011 Mossback Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley, Sonoma Cty, CA - $21 2010 Hitching Post Hometown Pinot Noir - Santa Barbara, CA - $25 2008 Chateau de Puligny Montrachet Monthelie - Burgundy, France - $28 2009 Wild Hog Vineyard Saralees Vyd Pinot Noir - Sonoma Coast, CA - $35 -- Sexy Selections from California, Argentina and France Four Great Value Gnarly Faves that we haven't tasted in a while Friday, Feb 15, 5-8pm 2010 L'Avion de Papier Chardonnay - Sonoma, CA - $18 2010 Alhambra Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva - Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina - $14 2011 Familia Mayol "Lujan de Cuyo" Malbec - Mendoza, Argentina - $18 2008 Les Vins de Vienne Heluicum Syrah - Northern Rhone Valley, France - $28 -- As always, 15% off wines and 10% off spirits featured at the tastings 10% off wines/ 5% off liqueurs featured. Buy a product featured at Gnarly Viness tasting, get $2 off a cupcake 2-pack (valid during Cake Joys grand opening, 2/11 thru 2/14). FLOWERS How much do I love thee...let me count the ways. Whether its a dozen long stemmed or a single one, nothing says it quite like flowers. Bella Rosa Flower Shop, 566 Myrtle a dozen, a single or special arrangements. Bella Rosa Flower Shop, 566 Myrtle, (718) 636-0124 Say I love you in a most colorful, fragrance-filled way&with flowers. LETS MOVE Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, 412 Myrtle, (718) 403-0067 BBJJ celebrates its third year anniversary post-valentine's Saturday (2/16) w/open house from 12p-3pm. Come out. Pick up VIP card or flyer for free post V-Day introductory class. Move with Grace Yoga, Dance and Pilates Studio, 469 Myrtle, (718) 230.0013 Treat your honey to peace and serenity (yoga classes) or a chance to get on down (dance, dance, dance classes).

Myrtle Tree Guard Spotlight: Reverie

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 09:59:00 -0400

This is the third in a series of posts highlighting specific tree guard designs on Myrtle Avenue. Reverie, by Debra Hampton , utilizes positive and negative shapes from cut up advertisements initially used in collage work for which the artist is most known. The original magazine image is first cut in a stylized manner that reduces the subject to a series of striking lines, latticed patterns, and flowing curves. Then the silhouetted shapes are combined and mirrored resulting in organic yet abstracted forms. The eye-catching and psychedelic patterns are reminiscent of Art Nouveau style and the reference is one the artist took into consideration as the metal guards reflect that delicate relationship between nature, art, and industrial urban life. Reverie is also a staff favorite! "Reverie" locations: Bench near Ingersoll Garden, Myrtle @ Fleet; Guard near Bravo Supermarket, Myrtle @ Washington Park; Guard near Doos Barber Shop, 435 Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly Myrtles tree guards are both functional and durable, and offer a canvas that reflects local creativity. They were created with a modular design so that each set of panels can have a unique, laser-cut design, meeting the Partnerships goal of creating more opportunities to incorporate local public art into the streetscape. The newest tree guard panels were designed by 24 local artists, who were selected through an open call for public art. Stay tuned for more spotlights&

Love is in the air at Maggie Brown...check out this first date story! Happy Valentine's Day!

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 12:12:00 -0400

Happy 2nd Anniversary Maxwell and Daniel! We loved running into your love story online late last night on the Design Sponge website, just in time for V-Day, awww. Thanks for keeping it local! The moral of the story: shop Myrtle! C'mon, you KNEW we were going to say that! Okay, okay, here's another, and it's true: LOVE springs eternal on Myrtle. Happy Valentine's Day folks! Be on the lookout for the list of Myrtle V-Day specials that'll be posted later today. Click here to check out Maxwell Tielman's wonderful photos of Maggie Brown Restaurant (interior shots and the wonderfully delicious Ethel O'Connel cocktail). maggie Brown is located at 455 Myrtle Avenue 455 Myrtle Avenue between Waverly and Washington Avenues. Call 718.643.7001 for more info, or drop in. photo: Maxwell Tielman

Some Serious Pampering, Dahling...Owl & the Pussycat Salon V-Day and Oscar Party Specials

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 08:00:00 -0400

All the single ladies, all the single ladies...all the married ladies, all the married ladies...all the single men, all the single men...all the married men, all the married men. Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh, Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh. Haha...liked that Beyonce remix, did you? Well, when you find out about something that'll kick the winter doldrums in the kisser, it happens. Yep, it's surely something to sing about. Check out the V-Day and Oscar Party specials direct from the Owl & the Pussycat: With Oscar season and Valentine's Day approaching, we thought it would be fun to merge classic romance on the silver screen with classic beautiful hair gifts for your loved one. Check out our special deals for lovers below: Casablanca Invigorating deep conditioning treatment, sensual scalp massage, sexy blowout. You will always have Paris&..$55 It happened one Night All of the pampering detailed above in Casablanca, but including a brand new haircut, style and delicious finish. sigh, swoon&..$99 Some Like It Hot The works: A hair and makeup love affair with OPC's red-carpet makeup artist Tiffany and your fave OPC Stylist. 5-star shampoo, massage, cut, glam blowdry and finish. And if that weren't enuogh, you will receive an automatic 20% off anything in our retail store&..$180 Roman Holiday For the men: Think about Gregory Pecks manly but stylishly groomed Joe wooing Ms Hepburn in 1950s Rome. Heres a chance to get equally sharp and smooth - enjoy a fresh new haircut; neck & brows clean-up, scalp massage and free product samples&..$50 for the dolce vita. All of the above services will be accompanied by movie soundtracks and Hollywood cocktails. The Owl & the Pussycat adds: "Lets put the oomph back into your cold winter nights! Kisses..." The Owl & the Pussycat Salon is located at 154 Vanderbilt Avenue, just south of Myrtle Avenue. Please call 718.522.5697 for more details and reservations.

Black Artstory Month: stories, barbers, filmmakers, freedom-fighters, windows...

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 13:27:00 -0400

From story time and art making, to film making and freedom-fighting, weve got the whole family covered this week! Check out the event details below!

Freedom Fighters - Opening Reception
Saturday, February 16, 2pm-5pm
SOCO, 509 Myrtle Avenue
An exhibition celebrating the major personalities, heroes, and icons that assisted in shaping black history in America through their philosophies, socio-political activism, art and personal sacrifices for freedom. Featuring works by Fuse Green, M. Tony Peralta, Suhail Smith, Sam Wilson, Michael 'TTK' Harris, and Rasu Jilani. Hosted and curated by Rasu Jilani of Coup detat Arts.

FOKUS presents: Story Time Art: A Celebration of Family
Sunday, February 17, 10am
Dee and Rickys, 503 Myrtle Avenue
You're invited to join FOKUS at 9am on Saturday, February 9th, as we take children and their families on an exciting trip using the books "Peter's Chair" and "The Jones Family Express" during a morning of artmaking and reading at Dee & Ricky's Home Cooking. FOKUS will be reading each book to the children and then leading them in an arts and crafts workshop where they will create collage postcards based on themes from each book.

Black Professionals in Film
Tuesday, February 19, 6:30pm - 9pm
Trilok Fusion Center for Arts and Education,143 Waverly Avenue
($5 suggested donation)
Part of the monthly Careers in Film Salon Series, with speakers, short film screenings, and lively discussions. Presented by Brooklyn Young Filmmakers, who is featured as the Brooklyn Arts Councils arts organization of the month !

Shop Talk: The Role of the Barbershop in the Black Community
Wednesday, February 20, 6:30pm
Miracles Barber Shop, 473A Myrtle Avenue
Join FOKUS, Zaki and several other barbers from Miracles Barbershop to discuss the role that barbershops play in the Black community and the community in general, how that role has evolved and how it compares to beauty salons and barbershops in other communities.

A Patchwork Story: Myrtle Windows Gallery
February 1 February 28
Connecticut Muffin (423 Myrtle), Karrot (431 Myrtle), Green in BKLYN (432 Myrtle), Marks Gourmet Burgers (441 Myrtle), Anima (458 Myrtle), Kum Kau (462 Myrtle), Miracles Unisex Barber Shop (473A Myrtle), and Soketah (563 Myrtle).
Drawing inspiration from African American quilts, artworks incorporate elements of collage, storytelling, explorations of personal identity and cultural heritage. Featuring works by Melissa Godoy Nieto, Amber Doe, Sophia Dawson, Tony Wells, Jose Baez, Cara Lynch, R. Steve Mosley, Steven J. Mosley and Arlene Jones. To purchase artwork in this exhibit, contact us at (718) 230-1689. Curated by Daonne Huff of MARP.

photo: Freedom Fighters exhibition at SoCo

Park Avenue Update: Let There be Light

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 11:11:00 -0400

We received word from DOT that 9 new streetlights will be added to the Park Avenue corridor! Our project partners at Architecture for Humanity New York conducted a light survey that showed many areas were darker than DOTs standard. We included these findings in the Park Avenue Safety Plan. In response, DOT did its own measurements. According to DOT, the following 9 locations will have new streetlights installed by the end of 2013: North Side of Park Ave: Intersection of Park Ave and Grand Avenue; Intersection of Park Ave and Ryerson Street; Intersection of Park Ave and Clinton Avenue; On Adelphi Street; Intersection of Park Ave and Carlton Avenue. South Side of Park Ave: Intersection of Park Ave and Steuben Street; Intersection of Park Ave and Washington Avenue; On Carlton Avenue; On N. Portland Avenue. This is great news! Please stay tuned for more updates&

NEMO UPDATE: Some of this weekend's Black Artstory Month events postponed

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 12:33:00 -0400

UPDATE: Snowstorm Nemo has forced us to postpone some of this weekend's events. So far, here are the changes that are confirmed. Stay tuned for updated information.
Postponed events:
Story Time Art w/FOKUS, new date + time is Sunday, 2/17/12 at 10am
'Freedom Fighters' Opening Reception, new date + time is Saturday, 2/16/12 at 2pm
Check here and www.sonyaonline.org for updates on SONYA's Sunday 2/10/12 events.
----------------------------------------- Got plans for the weekend? Spend it on Myrtle at these Black Artstory Month events! From story time and art making to film making and cocktails, weve got the whole family covered. Check out the details below!

FOKUS presents: Story Time Art: A Celebration of Family
Saturday, February 9, 9am 11 am
Dee and Rickys, 503 Myrtle Avenue
You're invited to join FOKUS at 9am on Saturday, February 9th, as we take children and their families on an exciting trip using the books "Peter's Chair" and "The Jones Family Express" during a morning of artmaking and reading at Dee & Ricky's Home Cooking. FOKUS will be reading each book to the children and then leading them in an arts and crafts workshop where they will create collage postcards based on themes from each book.

Freedom Fighters - Opening Reception
Saturday, February 9, 2pm-5pm
SOCO, 509 Myrtle Avenue
An exhibition celebrating the major personalities, heroes, and icons that assisted in shaping black history in America through their philosophies, socio-political activism, art and personal sacrifices for freedom. Featuring works by Fuse Green, M. Tony Peralta, Suhail Smith, Sam Wilson, Michael 'TTK' Harris, and Rasu Jilani. Hosted and curated by Rasu Jilani of Coup detat Arts.

SONYA Artmaking Workshops
Sunday, February 10, 12pm - 3pm
Hadas Gallery, 541 Myrtle Avenue
Open to all ages! Come by and get your hands dirty making Mosaics with Artist Jorge Valdez, Printmaking and Collage with artists Laura Pawson and Justice Whitaker, Crochet with Valerie Williams, Watercolor painting with Monique Ford, Comic Illustration with Josh Stulman and Community Painting with Ellie Balk. Hosted by SONYA.

Family Storytelling Through Film
Sunday, February 10, 1:30pm - 4pm
Trilok Fusion Center for Arts and Education, 143 Waverly Avenue
A workshop for parents, teens and kids (8 yrs and older) on how to write a short script and plan a low/no budget film shoot together as a family project. Limited to 10 participants, pre-registration suggested. Presented by Brooklyn Young Filmmakers, who is featured as the Brooklyn Arts Councils arts organization of the month ! RSVP at 718-935-0490.

SONYA Artists Talk
Sunday, February 10, 6pm DC Optics, 390 Myrtle Avenue
Artists participating in the Remembrance exhibition will discuss their choices and experiences. Featured artists include Kennis Baptiste, Nina Allen, June Gaddy, Thomas Kwak, Misha Tyutyunik, Jamilla Jennings.

Myrtle Tree Guard Spotlight: Break Dancing in the Street

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 14:33:00 -0400

This is the second in a series of posts highlighting specific tree guard designs on Myrtle Avenue. Myrtles tree guards are both functional and durable, and offer a canvas that reflects local creativity. They were created with a modular design so that each set of panels can have a unique, laser-cut design, meeting the Partnerships goal of creating more opportunities to incorporate local public art into the streetscape. The newest tree guard panels were designed by 24 local artists, who were selected through an open call for public art. For Break Dancing in the Street (top), QNY Creative's graphic designers wanted to honor the influence of breakdancing in street culture as well as in art and design. Since breakdancing originated in New York City in the 1970's, it is also of historical relevance to this region where people of so many different cultures and backgrounds live together and meet on the streets. Their design incorporates the vibrancy, movement, and acrobatics we enjoy when watching dancers show off their moves. Stay tuned for more spotlights&

This week on Myrtle: Trumpets, poets, films, and art-making for the whole family...

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:03:00 -0400

Black Artstory Month on Myrtle offers events for all ages this week, kicking off with trumpet-accompanied spoken word at Five Spot, to art-making workshops for kids at Dee & Rickys and Hadas Gallery this weekend. Check out the details below!

JACK celebrates Black Writers
Tuesday, February 5, 7pm
Five Spot Soul Food Restaurant, 459 Myrtle Avenue
Trumpeter Roy Campbell, Jr. joins professional actors to celebrate the words of poet James Baldwin, pioneering dramatist Alice Childress and emerging playwright Thais Francis, including excerpts from the inaugural theater season of the new Clinton Hill arts venue, JACK.

A Tasting and Dinner with Vivian Kleynhans of Seven Sisters Winery in South Africa
Wednesday, February 6, Time TBD
Gnarly Vines Wines and Spirits, 350 Myrtle Avenue

A Night of Short Films
Wednesday, February 6, 6:30pm 9pm
Ingersoll Community Center, 177 Myrtle Avenue
A selection of short films will be screened followed by a Q&A with the films directors: Why Do You Have Black Dolls?, Divine Rite, The Ultimate Wingman, Just Another Part of Me. This event is a prelude to New Voices in Black Cinema Film Festival at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, February 17-20. Presented by ACT NOW FOUNDATION in conjunction with University Settlement.

FOKUS presents: Story Time Art: A Celebration of Family
Saturday, February 9, 9am 11 am
Dee and Rickys, 503 Myrtle Avenue
You're invited to join FOKUS at 9am on Saturday, February 9th, as we take children and their families on an exciting trip using the books "Peter's Chair" and "The Jones Family Express" during a morning of artmaking and reading at Dee & Ricky's Home Cooking. FOKUS will be reading each book to the children and then leading them in an arts and crafts workshop where they will create collage postcards based on themes from each book.

Freedom Fighters - Opening Reception
Saturday, February 9, 2pm-5pm
SOCO, 509 Myrtle Avenue
An exhibition celebrating the major personalities, heroes, and icons that assisted in shaping black history in America through their philosophies, socio-political activism, art and personal sacrifices for freedom. Featuring works by Fuse Green, M. Tony Peralta, Saviour Sanquiche, Suhail Smith, Sam Wilson and Rasu Jilani. Hosted and curated by Rasu Jilani of Coup detat Arts.

SONYA Artmaking Workshops
Sunday, February 10, 12pm - 3pm
Hadas Gallery, 541 Myrtle Avenue
Open to all ages! Come by and get your hands dirty making Mosaics with Artist Jorge Valdez, Printmaking and Collage with artists Laura Pawson and Justice Whitaker, Crochet with Valerie Williams, Watercolor painting with Monique Ford, Comic Illustration with Josh Stulman and Community Painting with Ellie Balk. Hosted by SONYA.

Family Storytelling Through Film
Sunday, February 10, 1:30pm - 4pm
Trilok Fusion Center for Arts and Education, 143 Waverly Avenue
A workshop for parents, teens and kids (8 yrs and older) on how to write a short script and plan a low/no budget film shoot together as a family project. Limited to 10 participants, pre-registration suggested. Call Brooklyn Young Filmmakers at 718-935-0490.

SONYA Artists Talk
Sunday, February 10, 6pm DC Optics, 390 Myrtle Avenue
Artists participating in the Remembrance exhibition will discuss their choices and experiences. Featured artists include Kennis Baptiste, Nina Allen, June Gaddy, Thomas Kwak, Misha Tyutyunik, Jamilla Jennings.

Mr. Wesley Fagan's work on display at BLDG 92!

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 15:39:00 -0400

Mr. Wesley Fagan was one of a handful of community greats honored by Fort Greene Association last year during Black History Month. He passed away just days before at the age of 101. Mr. Fagan's accomplishments included serving in WWII, playing with many jazz greats such as Noble Sissle and Dizzy Gillespie as an accomplished horn player (clarinet, flute and saxophone, Juilliard grad) and working his way up from messenger to Director of the Photo Office at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, where he served two decades until the the BNY's closing in 1966. The photographic works of Mr. Fagan are on exhibit at the Brooklyn Navy Yard BLDG 92 throughout the month of February. Please stop by and view them. For more information, BLDG 92 can be reached at 718-907-5992. photo courtesy of the Brooklyn Navy Yard

Neighborhood Mixer @ Chez Lola on 2/7, 6pm

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 13:38:00 -0400

The Pratt Area Community Council (PACC) along with Lola Restaurant are hosting a neighborhood mixer on February 7th. Come out and hang out and get to know neighbors at Lola. PACC states, "it's the happiest of happy hours with drink specials from 6 - 9pm." Hope to see you there. All you can eat mussels are $14 at Chez Lola on Thursdays. Check out all the other delish menu items. Click here to RSVP. Chez Lola is located at 387 Myrtle Avenue, corner of Vanderbilt Avenue.

Super Bowl XLVII on Myrtle Avenue!

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 20:33:00 -0400

Woo hoo, Super Bowl XLVII is this coming Sunday, February 3rd. Watch the Baltimore Ravens and the San Francisco 49ers go head to head at the Mercedes Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Lousiana. Stop in at any of the Myrtle Avenue businesses below to check out the game: viewing opps, drink and eats specials and more. Here's a bit of a round up (stay tuned for possible additions before Sunday). Call the businesses directly for further details. Anima Italian Bistro 458 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly/Washington) 718.422.1122 $12 food & drink; Choice of draft beer, house wine or well drink; Choice of 1/2 dozen Jumbo Wings, margherita pizza or burger. Happy Hour will be from 2 to 6 pm Bamboo Lounge & Grill 527 Myrtle Avenue (Grand/Steuben) 718.398.2405 Doors open at 3:00pm. Enjoy 20 piece hot wing buckets, beer buckets, almost giveaway margaritas and sangrias and more. Burger Ur Way 354 Myrtle Avenue (Carlton/Adelphi) 347.294.0650 will cater your Super Bowl party: 50 Wings, 25 Mozzarella Sticks, 25 Chicken Tenders - $99.99 100 Wings, 50 Mozzarella Sticks, 50 Chicken Tenders - $199.99 200 Wings, 100 Mozzarella Sticks, 100 Chicken Tenders - $399.99 All Party Platters Include: Blue Cheese, Ranch, Celery, Marinara Sauce, Honey Mustard, and BBQ Sauce. *Other Platters Available. Castro's 511 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson/Grand) 718.398.1459 nachos and other food and drink specials Chez Lola 387 Myrtle Avenue (Clermont/Vanderbilt) 718.858.1484 burgers, nachos, beer and drink specials Cielo Bar 474 Myrtle Avenue (Washington Avenue/Hall) 347.529.4143 Buy any two drinks or two appetizers and get the 3rd drink or appetizer free. Party during and afterwards. Doors open at 5pm. The Emerson Bar 561 Myrtle Avenue (Emerson/Classon) 347.763.1310 projector screen and awesome beer specials. bring snacks--The Emerson will have free wings available. Super Bowl pool is $10 per box (must be filled before kick off). Total winning if all boxes are filled: 1st quarter prize $100; half time prize $200; 3rd quarter prize $100; final score prize $400. Happy Hour 3p-7:30 (2-for-1 draft and well) Kick-off, 6:30p. From 8p-close ($1 off all bottled beer). DJ and Dance Party after Five Spot Soul Food and Supper Club 459 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly/Washington) 718.852.0202 large screen projector, wing specials and more: Heineken light $3 Bud $3 Corona $4 Giveaways: Tshirts, key chains, footballs, tote bags $6 cocktail specials Los Pollitos III 499 Myrtle Avenue (Hall/Ryerson) 718.636.6125 flatscreen tv and food and drink specials Pillow Café 505 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson/Grand) 718.246.2711 large flat screen, nachos, chili nachos, buffalo wings, chips + guacamole, happy hour all day. Sans Souci 320 Myrtle Avenue (Washington Park/Carlton) 347.227.8135 $5 admission gets you lots of free food and into the after party. Huge flat screen tv to view the game, $3 beer, $5 shots. Soco 509 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson/Grand) 718.783.1936 food, fun and football. Live DJ for the Soco after party. Food and drink specials all night long. Make your reservations now: 718.783.1936. Touche Lounge 46 Washington Avenue (Flushing/Park) huge projector screens, HDTVs on 2 levels w/surround sound. Pool table on main floor. Super Bowl food and drink specials all day. Half time reffles and prizes after party DJ, Big Lou. No cover. Gnarly Vines 350 Myrtle Avenue (Carlton/Adelphi) 718.797.3183 assorted wine 6-packs and more Karrot Health Food 431 Myrtle (Clinton/Waverly) 718.522.9753 Karrot carries high-end imported craft beer, such as La Fin Du Monde, Triple Karmeliet and the Hulk, a natural-ingredient brew Greene-ville Garden 375 Myrtle (Clermont/Adelphi) 718.222.3733 6-pack and growler specials Khim's Millenium Market 536 Myrtle (Grand/Steuben) 718.819.1708 6-pack and growler specials Klevor Liquors 343 Myrtle (Carlton/Adelphi) 718.875.3991 Call Klevor if you need to order liquor, Brooklyn Sangria or Rum Punch, get suggestions, arrange deliveries or have a signature drink created Little Louies Pizza & Kitchen 360 Myrtle (Carlton/Adelphi) 718.797.5280 pizza, hot hero and wing specials and soft drinks Little Louie's special wings: 20 piece ($12); 50 piece ($25); 100 piece ($45). All served with celery and blue cheese. Hero Specials (24 hour notice for all heroes): 3-foot any style (serves 10 - 15 people) $60 6-foot any style (serves 20 - 30 people) $100 Italian: hot cappicolo, roasted peppers, mozzarella, lettuece and tomato American: ham, salami, American, lettuce and tomato Turkey: roasted turkey, mozzarella, lettuce and tomato Grilled Chicken: chicken, roasted peppers, mozzarella, lettuce and tomato

Myrtle Windows Gallery: A Patchwork Story + Black History Month Opening Reception @ Sans Souci

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 10:01:00 -0400

Black Artstory Month on Myrtle officially begins this Friday with A Patchwork Story, the first Myrtle Windows Gallery exhibition in 2013. Selected artworks celebrate or are inspired by African American quilts and quilting traditions, at times interpreting the medium through other materials, incorporating elements of storytelling, explorations of identity and cultural heritage. Works will be on view in 8 storefront windows between Classon and Vanderbilt throughout February. Meet the artists and enjoy a cocktail on us at the opening reception on Saturday, February 2nd at 6:30pm at Sans Souci (330 Myrtle).

Myrtle Windows Gallery is just one of the exciting programs taking place during Black Artstory Month! Here's what you can look for in just the first week:

A Patchwork Story: Myrtle Windows Gallery
February 1 February 28
Connecticut Muffin (423 Myrtle), Karrot (431 Myrtle), Green in BKLYN (432 Myrtle), Marks Gourmet Burgers (441 Myrtle), Anima (458 Myrtle), Kum Kau (462 Myrtle), Miracles Unisex Barber Shop (473A Myrtle), and Soketah (563 Myrtle). Drawing inspiration from African American quilts, artworks incorporate elements of collage, storytelling, explorations of personal identity and cultural heritage. Featuring works by Melissa Godoy Nieto, Amber Doe, Sophia Dawson, Tony Wells, Jose Baez, Cara Lynch, R. Steve Mosley, Steven J. Mosley and Arlene Jones. To purchase artwork in this exhibit, contact us at (718) 230-1689. Curated by Daonne Huff of MARP.

Remembrance: SONYArtists celebrate Black History Month Exhibition Opening Reception
Friday, February 1, 7pm
DC Optics, 390 Myrtle Avenue
Sponsored by South of the Navy Yard Artists (SONYA)

A Patchwork Story: Opening Reception
Saturday, February 2nd 6:30pm
Sans Souci
DJ and Light refreshments provided

A Tasting and Dinner with Vivian Kleynhans of Seven Sisters Winery in South Africa
Wednesday, February 6, Time TBD
Gnarly Vines Wines and Spirits, 350 Myrtle Avenue

A Night of Short Films
Wednesday, February 6, 6:30pm 9pm
Ingersoll Community Center, 177 Myrtle Avenue
A selection of short films will be screened followed by a Q&A with the films directors: Why Do You Have Black Dolls?, Divine Rite, The Ultimate Wingman, Just Another Part of Me. This event is a prelude to New Voices in Black Cinema Film Festival at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, February 17-20. Presented by ACT NOW FOUNDATION in conjunction with University Settlement.

JACK celebrates Black Writers
Tuesday, February 5, 7pm
Five Spot Soul Food Restaurant, 459 Myrtle Avenue
Trumpeter Roy Campbell, Jr. joins professional actors to celebrate the words of poet James Baldwin, pioneering dramatist Alice Childress and emerging playwright Thais Francis, including excerpts from the inaugural theater season of the new Clinton Hill arts venue, JACK.

Shape Up NYC Comes to the Ingersoll Community Center on Myrtle Ave!

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 14:00:00 -0400

Shape Up NYC is now offering FREE fitness classes every week at dozens of locations across the five boroughs for everyone in the community, no membership required! Classes HAVE BUGUN at the Ingersoll Community Center located at 177 Myrtle Avenue the week of January 21st. Classes are taught by expert fitness who knwo how to make fitness fun! Ingersoll Shape Up NYC Fitness Schedule: Aerobics
Tuesdays at 7pm Dance Fitness
Wednesdays at 11am Kickboxing
Saturdays at 10am Go here to search by location or browse the list of classes to find an activity or place that's right for you! Questions? Call the Ingersoll Community Center at 718-522-5051

Martha Redbone in concert at Pillow Cafe on Thursday, 1/31

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 17:17:00 -0400

Singer, Martha Redbone in concert at Pillow Cafe on Thursday, 1/31, beginning at 7pm. The concert is to benefit Little Essentials. Little Essentials is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to provide free baby and toddler (to age 4) clothing, gear, toys and other essential items to Brooklyn's families living below the poverty line. Please visit littleessentials.org to order tickets. Pillow Cafe-Lounge is located at 505 Myrtle Avenue between Grand and Ryerson.

Celebrate Black Artstory Month on Myrtle this February!

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 15:40:00 -0400

We are thrilled to present Black Artstory Month on Myrtle: A Celebration of African American Art, Culture and Creativity to coincide with Februarys recognition of Black History! The months events include art exhibitions, film screenings, lectures, performances and hands-on art making activities taking place in the businesses along Myrtle Avenue in Brooklyn in partnership with Brooklyn-based arts organizations.

We're highlighting and honoring the contributions African Americans have made, and are making, within the arts community. Black Artstory is a community effort, featuring collaborations with local businesses, local artists and organizations across the color field that are inspired by or share correlations with African American culture. The full calendar of events is on our website, and stay tuned for weekly posts about upcoming events throughout February. Highlights include:

- Myrtle Windows Gallery show, A Patchwork Story in eight Myrtle Avenue Storefront windows, with accompanying lecture by Dr. Myrah Green, Executive Director of Art and Culture in the Office of Government and Community Affairs at The City College of New York (CUNY) on the presence of African symbols in North American quilts (Saturday, February 23 at 4pm).

- A night of performance with Trumpeter Roy Campbell Jr. and theatrical readings of the words of poet James Baldwin, pioneering dramatist Alice Childress and emerging playwright Thais Francis; sponsored by JACK at Five Spot Soul Food Restaurant (Tuesday, February 5 at 7pm).

- An Afternoon of interactive reading and artmaking for kids ages 4+ presented by FOKUS at Dee and Rickys (Saturday, February 9, 9am).

- A talk by Black Professionals in the Film Industry (Tuesday, February 19, 6:30pm - 9pm), an all ages workshop devoted to Family Storytelling through film (Sunday, February 10, 1:30pm - 4pm), and a conversation exploring the differences and similarities between The Wizard of Oz and The Wiz (Tuesday, February 26, 7pm - 9pm); all sponsored by Brooklyn Young Filmmakers at Trilok Fusion Center for Arts and Education.

Additional events include art exhibitions sponsored by South of the Navy Yard Artists and Coup detat Arts, short film screenings by ACT NOW Foundation and MOCADA at Ingersoll Community Center, family-friendly art-making workshops by SONYA and FOKUS, a lecture on the state of Menswear Style by Randal Jacobs, and conversations on the roles barbershops and food play in creating community sponsored by FOKUS.

image: D. Huff, Black Flag

Greene Hill Food Co-op Invites All Community Memerbs to Their Winter Gathering!

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 13:07:00 -0400

All are invited, members and non-members, to the Greene Hill Food Co-op's winter gathering and 1 year anniversary celebration! When: Sunday 1/27/13
Time: 4-7PM
Where: Bija Kids Studio at 900 Fulton Street - come with your party socks on, no shoes in the studio
Cost: $10 for members / $12 for non-members It's a great opportunity to get to know other co-op members and hear the latest co-op news! More info can be found here .

Myrtle Tree Guard Spotlight: Sequenced Matter and Winding Routes

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 13:26:00 -0400

This is the first in a series of posts highlighting specific tree guard designs on Myrtle Avenue. Myrtles tree guards are both functional and durable, and offer a canvas that reflects local creativity. They were created with a modular design so that each set of panels can have a unique, laser-cut design, meeting the Partnerships goal of creating more opportunities to incorporate local public art into the streetscape. The newest tree guard panels were designed by 24 local artists, who were selected through an open call for public art. In this inaugural post, we look at a pair of designs from Myrtle Avenues very own Manoela Madera and Gray Edgerton. Their design process is the coming together of opposites. They like to come up with ideas separately then see how they come together. When they chose their individual designs for the tree guards, they wanted them to be at opposite ends of the spectrum with regards to form, yet both with a strong graphic visual style. Sequenced Matter (top) is an ordered crystal-like design that conjures imagery of molecular diagrams. This design is a sharp geometric mirror image. The reflected pattern in the individual panel creates a greater repetition in the final tree guard when the panels are connected. "I wanted something fast, direct and visually eye-catching," says Manoela. The inspiration for Winding Routes (bottom) came from drawings that Gray has been doing for a while. The motif of a cluster of vine-like lines, growing, weaving, and taking over the picture plane is a metaphor for the creative process. "I wanted to create the illusion of the metal surface becoming overlapping lines where the cut out negative spaces appear to intersect and weave over and under each other," says Gray. Look for Manoela and Grays designs kiddie corner (opposite!) from each other on the southwest and northeast corners of Myrtle Avenue at Clinton. Stay tuned for more spotlights&

Have a say in how a Myrtle Avenue Community Space is used!

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 13:58:00 -0400

Myrtle Village Green, a neighborhood association, has gained access to the closed Department of Environmental Protection Water Tunnel 3 shaft site on Myrtle Avenue (location site shown in above map). They are developing programming for the site and gearing up to participate in an inclusive planning process for the long term! They have a new Community Planning Survey they would like community members to fill out. The survey is meant to prioritize projects that the community desires and give everyone a chance to chime in and get involved. The survey can be found here. For more information you can use the contact form on their website here. Make your voice heard!

MARP New Year's Fundraiser this Monday!

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 15:31:00 -0400

Come celebrate the beginning of 2013 on Myrtle Avenue! As Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, and its 160 small businesses, were fortunately spared any major damage from Hurricane Sandy, MARP has decided to put its proceeds from our New Year's Fundraiser to the small businesses of Red Hook and the ReStore Red Hook Initiative. If you haven't had an opportunity to volunteer, donate, or otherwise help out some of your fellow New Yorkers most impacted by Hurricane Sandy, now's your chance.

Please join us at MARP's 'Celebrate the New Year' fundraiser for a selection of food, an open bar, and merry conversation at the brand new downstairs space at Putnam's Pub & Cooker, at the corner of Myrtle and Clinton Avenues

Monday, January 14th, 5:30-7:30pm
In the brand new downstairs space at Putnams Pub & Cooker, 419 Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn.
Details and tickets ($35 or $50 w/ a ReStore Red Hook t-shirt!) available here:
http://myrtleavenuebrooklyn.eventbrite.com/

New Tree Guards All In on Myrtle

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 16:37:00 -0400

The Phase II tree guard installations are complete! 50 new tree guards and tree benches now line Myrtle Avenue, from Flatbush to Classon. Two tree guard models one with a bench and one without were initially designed through a community process and in collaboration with the Pratt Design Incubator for Sustainable Innovation in 2010. The 50 new guards have joined the 40 from 2011. Details on the full project and its timeline are here.

Myrtles tree guards are both functional and durable, and offer a canvas that reflects local creativity. They were created with a modular design so that each set of panels can have a unique, laser-cut design, meeting the Partnerships goal of creating more opportunities to incorporate local public art into the streetscape. The new tree guard panels were designed by 24 local artists, who were selected through an open call for public art. Designs range from graphic patterns and shapes to abstractions of real-world objects. For this phase of the street furniture program, the Partnership worked with art teachers at neighborhood schools, with 10 of the selected panel designs coming from students at these schools, some as young as preschoolers. Check out the coverage we received in todays (1/4/13) Wall Street Journal: Myrtle Avenue Dresses Up Its Tree Guards Residents walking on Brooklyn's stretch of Myrtle Avenue literally have something to sit and marvel about with the recent installation of more than 40 artsy sidewalk benches and tree guards. The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership, the umbrella organization that pulls together the Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project Local Development Corp. and the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Business Improvement District, recently started work on the second phase of a street furniture and beautification project on its major thoroughfare mainly between Flatbush and Classon Avenues.

Almost all of the 28 new tree guards and 22 benches have been installed, joining 40 others that were put in place in the summer of 2011.

The guards and benches feature laser-cut sheet-metal panels designed by local artists and students in area elementary and preschools. Among the panel designers were Robert Walsh, the city's Small Business Services commissioner, and his 9-year-old son, Liam.

Click here to read the whole article (subscription required). Phase II was funded by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn BID, NYS DEC Urban and Community Forestry, and NYS Main Street. In the coming weeks, we will spotlight individual tree guard designs. Stay tuned&

Park Avenue Safety Plan Update: 1,000 Signatures!

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 12:09:00 -0400

Weve officially reached our goal of 1,000 signatures on the petition to implement the Park Avenue Safety Plan. The online petition was effective, but the majority of signatures were gathered on hard copy petitions by our dedicated partners and community leaders. The signatures will be formally sent to the agencies with the power to implement the changes outlined in the plan: City DOT, Parks, Sanitation, and State DOT. The signatures should put some weight behind our advocacy efforts. Bonus Update: we received word from City DOT that pedestrian ramps will be installed at two intersections this summer: Park Avenue at Navy and Cumberland. This is a direct result of the safety plan. Stay tuned for more updates&

Job Opportunities: Waitstaff and Kitchen Assistance at Zaytoons

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 13:27:00 -0400

Zaytoons is currently looking for a waiter plus kitchen staff person. Interested parties please stop in with your resume detailing prior experience. Zaytoons is located at 472 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street.

'We are Patriarchs' exhibit to open at Hadas Gallery, 1/13

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 10:58:00 -0400

The 'We are Patriarchs' exhibit opens at Hadas Gallery on January 13th and runs through February 24th. Opening reception is Sunday, January 13th at 4:30pm and the artist lecture is Wednesday, February 6th at 7pm. Hadas Gallery is proud to present the recent paintings of Elke Reva Sudin. We Are Patriarchs is the latest series of oil paintings by artist Elke Reva Sudin. The exhibition continues Sudins interest in expressing Jewish culture in the 21st Century. The use of Torah (old Testament) characters are reinterpreted as modern Jews from among the diversity of Jewish society. Here you will find converts, Orthodox Kosher business owners, Tatooed Jews, all standing as modern icons to their Jewish ancestors. Elke Reva Sudin studied art at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY. In 2010, she gained notoriety for her Hipsters and Hassids painting series as well as her depictions of Jewish boxer Yuri Foreman. Hadas Gallery, a project of the Rohr Jewish Center, is located at 541 Myrtle Avenue between Steuben and Emerson Streets. Please contact the gallery at info@hadasgallery.com for further information.

MulchFest 2013 is January 12th and 13th!

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 17:00:00 -0400

MulchFest 2013 will take place on Saturday and Sunday, January 12th and 13th, from 10am to 2pm. Chip in! Mulch your tree! Help NYC grow. MulchFest provides New Yorkers an opportunity to bring their holiday trees to designated sites where they are ground into wood chips. The chips can then be placed in tree pits and gardens. Parks & Recreation encourages New Yorkers to help the environment and their community by participating in this event. Our local MulchFest location is Fort Greene Park. Enter Park at the intersection of Washington Park and Willoughby Avenue. Participants are encouraged to bring bags to take advantage of the free mulch provided. All lights, ornaments and stands must be taken off holiday trees. The MulchFest chipper in Fort Greene Park is sponsored by NYC Parks & Recreation in partnership with the Society for Clinton Hill, the Fort Greene Association and The Fort Greene Park Conservancy

Still looking for that perfect holiday gift? Check out the Myrtle Avenue shopping guide!

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 22:04:00 -0400

Still looking for that oh so perfect gift? Try flipping through the just released, hot off the press Myrtle Avenue shopping and dining guide 2013 for some gift suggestions. Everything from flowers, to clothes and accessories, to baked treats, to yummy meals, to mani-pedis, yoga classes, hair cuts or styling, coffee and bagels, to bicycles, to jiu-jitsu, to kickboxing, to holidays trees, to gift wrap, to groceries, medical supplies, cell phones...it's in there! Pick up your copy at Myrtle Avenue stores and a wide variety of other neighborhood haunts. The 7-panel guide features listings of over 150 small businesses located along and just off of Myrtle Avenue, Brooklyn, along with their addresses and cross streets, phone numbers, websites. The guide also includes a 2-paneled map, complete with arrows to local subway and bus lines and a list of local destinations. Get your copy TODAY!

Fourth Graders for Food! Food Drive

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 09:05:00 -0400

The Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Council partnered with the Greene Hill School 9's classroom to collect food donations for the Child Development Support Corporation (CDSC) Food Pantry. The kids, along with their teachers, did an awesome job preparing for the food drive, getting the word out to their community and gathering the donations as they came in. In recognition of their achievement the kids attended a party at CDSC where Mireille Massac, CDSC Public Relations Manager, gave the kids a tour of the CDSC Hydroponic Farm that produces fresh vegetables and herbs for their pantry clients. They learned about how the farm functions, the crops it is producing such as Guyana Thyme and had the opportunity to plant lettuce seeds! Everyone had a blast and we look forward to continued collaboration! Congratulations and thanks to Greene Hill School!

Park Avenue Safety Plan Update: So Close

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 13:26:00 -0400

Weve received over 500 signatures on the paper version of our petition. Combined with the ~400 online signatures, we are very close to our goal of 1000! Help us get there during the holiday season. Sign the online petition and/or share it with friends. Your support will help convince the city to implement the safety proposals outlined in the Park Avenue Safety Plan, including: Retimed traffic lights; More street trees; Bus shelters; Daylighting at select intersections; Repaving underneath the BQE; Median parking (to calm traffic and add on-street parking); Various safety measures at crossings under the BQE; Removal of highway-like design at Navy and Steuben streets; A traffic light and crosswalk on the NYCHA/Commodore Barry superblocks. Happy holidays and stay safe.

Move with Grace now has: Fresh Juices, Smoothies, Shakes, oh my!

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 11:01:00 -0400

Move with Grace Yoga, Dance and Yoga Studio has a fresh juice bar! Fresh juices, smoothies and protein shakes now available, yummmmmmmmm. Green smoothies, strawberry, blueberry, banana, pomegranate, apple...and on and OH SO YUMMY on. Move with Grace Yoga Studio is located at 469 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. Call the studio at 718.230.0013 for additional information.

Gingerbread Shipbuilding Workshop: A very tasty "tools and talent" workshop

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:50:00 -0400

For the kids! Inspired by a precision model of the Brooklyn-built USS Monitor currently on display at the Brooklyn Navy Yard Centers BLDG 92, this Gingerbread Shipbuilding event challenges kids to construct a gingerbread version (which will be commissioned, then displayed throughout the holiday season). Pastry chef, Christopher Sanchez from Myrtle Avenue's (354 Myrtle Avenue) Le Petit Bakery from Clinton Hills Le Petit Bakery will be on hand along with model shipwright Dan Pariser to oversee the proceedings. In addition to building supplies, kids will be given ship-shaped gingerbread cookies to munch. Families are encouraged to bring a new unwrapped toy or game, which will be donated to families affected by Hurricane Sandy. At 1pm on Sat., Dec. 15, at the Brooklyn Navy Yard Centers BLDG 92 (63 Flushing Ave., corner of Carlton Ave. $15 for kids, parents free. ;-) For info, visit bldg92.org/events.

The Joint: Grand Opening -- all day celebration on 12/15

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:46:00 -0400

Stop in at The Joint on Saturday, 12/15 to help them party in the new Myrtle biz! Food, fun and lots of free samples from the menu. The starts at 8am and culminates with a full our party beginning at 7pm. Come out and support! The Joint is located at 471 Myrtle Avenue between Hall Street and Washington Avenue. Please call them at 347.763.1455 for more information!

Jewels and Cupcakes = 'Joy on Myrtle Avenue', featuring Kiini Ibura Jewley and CakeJoy Bakery

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:40:00 -0400

Kiini Ibura Jewelry and CakeJoy Bakery are teaming up for a holiday soirée which will take place at CakeJoy Bakery this Saturday, 12/15 from 1pm and 7pm. Come out to experiences 'Joy on Myrtle', featuring handcrafted one-of-a-kind jewelry by Melody Burns of Kiini Ibura Jewelry and fresh, delicious cupcakes by CakeJoy Bakery. Two trademarks of Kiini Ibura's work is that each piece of jewelry created, whether necklaces, earrings, bracelets or rings, is 100% handmade and features precious and semi-precious stones, including turquoise, Ghanaian glass, Austrian crystals, African amber and fresh water pearls. Jewelry designer, Melody Burns' jewels have been seen previously on the likes of Whoopi Goldberg, who once donned a gorgeous Kiini Ibura necklace on an episode of The View and singers, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and Angie Stone. Melody last year was voted one of the 10 African-American Visual Artists You Need to Know by the Atlanta Post. Confections by Cakejoy Bakery are moist, delicious and delectable and made passed down family recipes. Cupcake flavors available this weekend will include mouthwatering flavors such as chocolate grand marnier seduction, mojito madness and pineapple kiss. CakeJoy Bakery is located at 364 Myrtle Avenue between Clermont and Adelphi.

Last chance to enter Small Biz Saturday sweepstakes: deadline's tomorrow, 12/15 at 11:59pm

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:38:00 -0400

Have you entered the Small Business Saturday sweeptakes yet? Deadline is tomorrow, 12/15 -- so HURRY! To enter: click on the sweepstakes tab above right (complete the quick form plus post a pic to the Myrtle website of yourself in front of your fav orite Myrtle Avenue business by 12/15). Winners will receive $50 gift certificate to spend on Myrtle Avenue or Fulton Street. Big Tip: Do the same on the 'FAB Fulton' Facebook page (pic in front of favorite Fulton Street store), to double your chances of winning! Deadline is tomorrow, 12/15 -- Hurry!! Click here to enter. https://www.facebook.com/MyrtleAvenueBrooklynPartnership/app_167329423409195

Park Avenue Safety Plan Spotlight: Repaving

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 16:33:00 -0400

If youve spent any time underneath the BQE, you know that the pavement conditions are terrible. There are countless potholes from Navy to Steuben, some very large. In some sections, the asphalt near the raised curb is almost entirely gone. This area has been neglected. Upon our request, DOT did send a pothole crew to this area. Some potholes were filled but many more remain. Fixing this issue may require a complete repaving project. We will keep the pressure on DOT to fix the pavement in this area. You can help, by signing the online petition and/or sharing it with friends. Including hard copy petitions, we now have nearly 900 signatures, close to our goal of 1000! Help us get there. Stay tuned for more updates and spotlights&

Fort Greene Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:46:00 -0400

University Settlement & the Ingersoll Community Center invite the community to join in on festivities and cheer as they light the Fort Greene Christmas Tree this Friday 12/14/12 from 5-8PM. The tree lighting will take place at 5:30PM in the Ingersoll Garden of Eden located next to the community center at 177 Myrtle Avenue (Prince/Navy). Inside there will be entertainment, cookie decorating, crafts and more! For more information call 718.522.5051 Rain date will be 12/17/12

Park Avenue Safety Plan Spotlight: Street Trees

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 13:14:00 -0400

Did you know that a full street tree canopy can reduce automobile speeds by 5-10mph? Its true. Thats why we proposed adding street trees to all available spots on Park Avenue between Navy and Steuben. As you can imagine, a wide open street without trees (like this photo) invites speeding. Trees can help. Besides adding beauty and reducing energy bills, street trees have a calming effect on drivers and vehicle speeds. The New York City Parks Department is responsible for street trees. They received our report and asked that our proposal be refined to include each specific location where a tree can go. As you can imagine, siting street trees in NYC is not easy. In the coming months, we hope to map each location where a tree could be planted. Including hard copy petitions, we now have over 800 signatures, close to our goal of 1000! Help us get there by signing the online version and/or sharing it with friends. Stay tuned for more updates and spotlights&

Free Breast Cancer Awareness Workshop

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 09:51:00 -0400

The Brooklyn Hospital Medical Center is hosting a FREE Breast Cancer Awareness Workshop TODAY from 1-3PM at the YWCA located at 30 3rd Avenue 11217.

Call for Artwork! Myrtle Windows Gallery Exhibit: A Patchwork Story

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 14:52:00 -0400

Calling local artists! Here's a unique opportunity to display your work on Myrtle Avenue! The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership seeks existing two-dimensional works of art (paintings, prints, photographs, collage, mixed media, etc.) for temporary installation in 10 storefront windows on Myrtle Avenue between Classon Ave. and Vanderbilt Ave. beginning in February 2013 for one month (dates to be determined). To coincide with our Black History Month Celebration: Black Artstory Month on the Avenue, we are seeking work that is inspired by or celebrates African American quilts and quilting traditions or incorporates fabric, sewing or quilting design aesthetics. Works can be literal references to quilting or conceptual interpretations. Preference will be given to artists based in NYC, and especially those based in Brooklyn. Please click here to find information for submitting your work to the exhibit. About the Myrtle Windows Gallery program: By breaking down the walls of the traditional private art gallery, Myrtle Windows Gallery brings two-dimensional art to the public arena via storefront windows, where it is accessible to anyone simply walking down the street. The initiative helps bring together artists, businesses, and the community in a dialogue about art and the boundaries of public space.

Park Avenue Safety Plan Spotlight: Daylighting

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 10:38:00 -0400

Daylighting is the practice of removing visual obstructions (parked cars) at intersections to increase safety. At our meeting with DOT, we learned that the city generally does not daylight intersections with traffic signals. However, DOT does daylight intersections with stop signs. At those locations, daylighting gives drivers (and pedestrians) a better view of the intersection so they know when its safe to proceed. DOT asked MARP to specify which intersections in the project area should be daylighted. Based on DOTs preference to daylight intersections governed by stop signs, MARP formally requested daylighting at the following locations: Westbound Park Avenue at the approach to North Oxford Street. Eastbound Park Avenue at the approach to Waverly Avenue. Westbound Park Avenue at the approach to Waverly Avenue. Eastbound Park Avenue at the approach to Ryerson Street. Westbound Park Avenue at the approach to Grand Avenue. Eastbound Park Avenue at the approach to Grand Avenue Eastbound Park Avenue at the approach to Steuben Street. For more information about daylighting, watch this short film. Including hard copy petitions, we now have over 800 signatures, close to our goal of 1000! Help us get there by signing the online version and/or sharing it with friends. Stay tuned for more updates and spotlights&

Small Business Saturday -- Saturday, November 24th -- biz sales and specials, trolley stop fun!

Fri, 23 Nov 2012 16:43:00 -0400

Small Business Saturday is this Saturday, November 24th on Myrtle Avenue and Fulton Street in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. The trolley will be outand Santa will be onboard! Dont miss it! The trolley, Santa, small business specials, music and all around neighborhood fun! Dont forget to enter the Small Business Saturday contest from NOW thru December 15th for a chance to win gift certificates to shop your favorite stores for the holidays! Myrtle/Washington Park trolley stop

free hot chocolate and donuts from 12p thru 3:30p
12:30p to 2:00p - face painter
kids activities: letter-writing to Santa, coloring book activities and color your own paper ornaments

Myrtle/Waverly trolley stop

jazz band
free hot chocolate and donuts from 12p thru 3:30p
2:30p to 4:00p - face painter
community chef - Beryl Benbow
kids activities: letter-writing to Santa, coloring book activities and color your own paper ornaments

Shop your favorite Myrtle Avenue and Fulton Street businsses. Ask about a Small Business Saturday discount or special. Please check out a sampling of small business specials below: CakeJoy Bakery 364 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Clermont/718.624.2253 (CAKE) $2 freshly-baked muffin + hot drink all day Hueys Chueys 378 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Clermont Specials on hot ginger tea, hot chocolate, chocolate-covered popcorn, cheesecake cupcakes, make your milk shakes. Kids face painter from 12p-3:30p Le Petit Bakery 354 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton/ 718.875.6500 Stop in for the daily specials The Joint on Myrtle 471 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall/347.763.1455 complimentary hot cider w/purchase of any sandwich Gnarly Vines 350 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton/718.797.3183 Holiday value sparkling wine tasting featuring 6 different sparkling wines under $20, all at $15 off. Wine tasting from 1p-8p. Also, assortments of 4-packs and 6-packs designed for holiday sipping. Polish Bar of Brooklyn 470 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall/718.622.5363 EXPRESS manis and pedis&OPI fearuting OO7 Introducing services for the girl on the go. Express manis -- $9 Express pedis -- $18 Also, check out the gift certificates Barking Brown 468 Myrtle between Washington Avenue and Hall/718.638.3757 30%-70% off selected clothing and accessories Byme Brooklyn 519 Myrtle Avenue between Grand and Steuben/ 718.622.7260 30%-70% off selected clothing and accessories Utrecht 25% off all non-Utrecht branded items! Just Because Salon 141 Carlton Avenue between Myrtle and Park/718.722.7810 specials all day CKO Kickboxing 45 Waverly Avenue between Park and Flushing/347.770.2256 Inaugural kickboxing class at CKO Kickboxing on Saturday. And its free!!! Maggie Brown 455 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Waverly/718.643.7001 10% of all sales at Maggie Brown on Nov. 24th will be donated to the Red Hook Initiative. Maggie Brown owner are also hosting a party at Olea Restaurant on this night, 10p-2a w/DJ Drew Kilgore. $20 donation at the door and $2 drinks. These proceeds will go to the Red Hook Initiative. Associated Supermarket 492 Myrtle Avenue between Hall and Ryerson/718.857.5579 Compare Foods, parent company of Associated is hosting a canned food drive to benefit victims of Hurricane Sandy.

Small Business Saturday is this Saturday, Nov. 24! Bring the kids, bring yourselves!

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 01:37:00 -0400

Come out for great neighborhood fun this Saturday, November 24th! Trolley + Santa + photo contest + you = FUN! FREE event -- everyone is welcome! How's this for a reminder to SHOP SMALL! Hop off and Hop off the trolley to shop your favorite local stores! Santa Claus will be on board the trolley from 12-2:30pm! (route below). Family-friendly and neighborhood fun for kids and adults of all ages. TROLLEY RIDES with Santa Claus on Board from 12-2:30pm*: Please note revised schedule below: Departs From: 12:00 PM Fulton/Grand 12:30 PM Myrtle/Waverly 1:00 PM Fulton/Lafayette 1:30 PM Myrtle/Washington Park 2:00 PM Fulton/Grand 2:30 PM Myrtle/Waverly (Santa, but no trolley)* 3:00 PM Fulton/Lafayette (Santa, but no trolley)* 3:30 PM Myrtle/Washington Park (Santa, but no trolley)* NEW YORK CARES COAT DRIVE - JUST ADDED Bring your gently used winter coats to any one of the four trolley stops and donate them to New York Cares and the thousands of people in need as a result of Hurricane Sandy and an unusually early start to colder weather. New York Cares estimates the need for winter coats will be double that of previous years. Drop-Off from 12noon-4pm: Fulton/Grand; Myrtle/Waverly; Fulton/Lafayette; Myrtle/Washington Park WIN BIG JUST ONE PIC AWAY! Enter the 'Shop Small Photo Contest' for a chance to win gift certificates! Use Facebook to post a photo of your favorite local small business on Fulton Street or Myrtle Avenue and youre entered to win! 10 Prizes: $50 Gift Certificates to a local business on Fulton or Myrtle. Deadline to enter is midnight on 12/15/2012. This event is presented jointly by: Fulton Area Business (FAB) Alliance and Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership

Thank You to Miracles Barber Shop and St. Joseph's College for Your Generosity

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 15:13:00 -0400

The Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Council partnered with the Ingersoll Tenant Association Community Initiative to lead a food drive for the Ingersoll Community Center Thanksgiving Day Feast. Miracles Barber Shop was one of the drop-off locations and you can see from the photo that they had great success in receiving donations! In addition, St. Joseph's College provided MARP and the Community Food Council with a generous cash donation so that farm fresh veggies from J. Glebocki Farms and Apple Cider & Fresh Fruit from Migliorelli Farm could be purchased for the cooks of the Thanksgiving Feast. We thank Miracles Staff, residents who donated the food items and St. Joseph's College for helping to make the Thanksgiving Day Feast a bountiful meal for our neighbors in need.

An evening of shopping and fun @ Shic by Soketah tonight, 11/17!

Sat, 17 Nov 2012 11:30:00 -0400

Shic by Soketah hosts "blazers and jewels," an evening of shopping and fun "with everything a girl loves." Stop by for an evening of champagne, beauty products, make-up, fragrances, foot massages, jewelry, fashion and a whole lot more. Don't miss it. It's tonight, Saturday, November 17th from 8pm until 12midnight. Shic, spelled with an 'S' for Soketah, the owners' first store on Myrtle Avenue, is a one-stop beauty bar featuring 4 fabulous beauty areas under one roof: hair, nails (manicures and pedicures), make-up and other beauty treatments, including facial and full body massages. Shic is designed in colors reminiscent of lovely gifts and the boxes they sometimes come in, with its primarily chocolate brown and Tiffany blue color scheme. Shic is owned by 4 locals and entrepreneurs, Keisha Farrell, Sonia Lashley, Kristal Thomas and Jamilla Martin. Shic by Soketah is located at 564 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Classon. Please call 718.875.6845/6 for more details, or stop in tonight for an evening of FUN!

Job Opportunity: Barista at the Joint on Myrtle

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 21:30:00 -0400

The Joint on Myrtle (471 Myrtle between Washington Avenue and Hall Street) is looking for an experienced barista, F/T or P/T. Barista must know how to use an espresso machine. Food permit a plus. Interested? Send resme to thejointonmyrtle@gmail.com.

Free Health Screenings from Brooklyn Hospital Medical Center

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 15:31:00 -0400

A free "Mobile Clinic" will be parked in front of the Ingersoll Community Center, 177 Myrtle Avenue, tomorrow, November 15th, from 1-3pm. Brooklyn Hospital Medical Center will be offering the following free health screenings:
Blood Pressure
Cholesterol
Hypertension
Glucose
Vision
Hearing
HIV testing
Nutrition
All are welcome!

Food Drive for the Ingersoll Community Center Thanksgiving Day Feast

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 21:16:00 -0400

The Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Council has partnered with the Ingersoll Tenant Association Community Initiative to lead a food drive for the Ingersoll Community Center Thanksgiving Day Feast! Please bring one or more of the listed items below to a listed drop-off location by Monday, November 19th.

ITEMS NEEDED
String Beans
Cranberry Sauce
Stuffing Mix
Canned Yams
Rice
Canned Gravy
Corn
Corn Bread Mix
Collard Greens
Macaroni
DROP OFF LOCATIONS
- Ingersoll Community Center - 177 Myrtle Avenue
Monday Friday 11:00 - 7:00 PM - MARP - 472 Myrtle Avenue
Monday Friday 10:00 - 7:00 PM - Miracles Unisex Barber Shop - 473 A Myrtle Avenue
Monday Sunday 9:00 - 9:00 PM - Green In BKLYN - 432 Myrtle Avenue
Tuesday Friday 11 - 7PM
Sat 10 - 7PM
Sun 11 - 6PM
Details about the Ingersoll Thanksgiving Feast: All attendees must get a ticket in advance. If you know of a person or family that may need a free meal on thanksgiving day please have them come to the Community Center located at 177 Myrtle Avenue, Monday - Friday from 6:00pm -9:30pm and Saturday from 3-5pm to register and receive a ticket for entry. For more information contact Kassy Nystrom at the MARP office - 718.230.1689

Park Avenue Safety Plan Update: Greene Hill School Steps Up

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 11:57:00 -0400

This week we report on some great community work from Greene Hill School. The elementary school is located on Adelphi just north of Park Avenue. Students, parents and teachers cross Park Avenue multiple times per day. They know the issues and care about them as much as anyone else. Second grade teacher James Choi knew about the Park Avenue Safety Plan and thought that his students would like to help. And help they did! James class collected almost 100 signatures for our petition. Each student then wrote a letter to DOT asking to make Park Avenue safer. Many focused on the issue that confronts them every day: inadequate pedestrian crossing time. Read the letter on this page for an example. Great work class! Including the signatures gathered by Greene Hill, we now have a total of 725 signatures! Add you name by signing the online version and/or sharing it with friends. Stay tuned for more updates and spotlights&

Public Design Commission Approves Designs for Myrtle Plaza

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 11:25:00 -0400

After extensive public input and multiple design iterations, the New York City Public Design Commission (PDC) approved the plans for Myrtle Plaza, a $6M capital project to reconstruct the streets and sidewalks of Myrtle Avenue between Hall Street and Emerson Place. The Myrtle Avenue plaza will create approximately 25,000 square feet of new pedestrian space by reconfiguring two blocks of the four-block service road and the southeast corner of Myrtle at Hall. Enhancements include: improved crossings, new bus stops, dozens of new trees, large planters with ornamentals, game tables, a water fountain, a permanent art installation, moveable tables and chairs, and more. The plaza will also provide space for community programming. The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Business Improvement District will be the citys maintenance partner and will be responsible for upkeep and programming. Construction is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2013 and will last over a year. Check out the site plan and renderings here. This project is part of the first round of NYC DOTs capital Plaza Program . Funding was provided by Councilmember Tish James, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, and NYC DOT.

Habanero Festival this Sunday and next, 12p-5p!

Sat, 10 Nov 2012 11:51:00 -0400

Habanero festival at the Trilok lot this Sunday, 11/11 and next Sunday, 11/18. Come out and experience the the flavorful and HOT habanero. Cooking demo, games, songs -- come out and enjoy. The Trilok lot is located at Myrtle and Waverly. The event will take place from 12a-5p. Come out!

Last call to visit this season's Myrtle Windows Gallery

Sat, 10 Nov 2012 11:17:00 -0400

Last chance to view the current, "This is Brooklyn," Myrtle Windows Gallery. Some of the interior art shows will be coming down also. Be sure to check it out. --- What do the Brooklyn Museum and the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership have in common? The work of GO Brooklyn finalist Finalist, Adrian Coleman as well as several other talented Brooklyn artists. Only a few more days left to catch the Myrtle Windows Gallery as well as exhibits which are taking place within Myrtle Avenue store. Adrian Coleman's work currently hangs in Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu @ 412 Myrtle Avenue and Anima Italian Bistro @ 458 Myrtle Avenue. Also check out talented artists, Audrey Frank Anastasi, Connecticut Muffin, 423 Myrtle; Liz Johnson (painting), hanging in Green in Brooklyn, 434 Myrtle; Marilyn Kaggen (photography) at Karrot, 431 Myrtle; Ani Kington (painting) at Miracles, 473A Myrtle; and Thomas Osorio (painting)at Soketah, 563 Myrtle. Exhibits inside merchant spaces include: Chris Pardi at Cielo Bar Brooklyn (474 Myrtle). Kerri Ferrara at Connecticut Muffin (423 Myrtle). South of the Navy Yard Artists 'Out of Sight' at DC Optics (390 Myrtle). The first of four SONYA exhibitions features urban-inspired, colorful work that reflects what is great, marvelous and powerful. Dave Barron at The Emerson (561 Myrtle). Fabrice Trombert at Gnarly Vines (350 Myrtle). Deborah Stevenson at Green in BKLYN (432 Myrtle). Rosa Katznelson's Jubilation at Hadas Gallery (541 Myrtle). Born in Argentina under a period marked by virulent anti-Semitism, Katznelson paints in defiance to the adversity she experienced as a child. Cesar Velez's Corners of a Soul at Mojito Cuban Cuisine (82 Washington Avenue). 20 original pieces are made from recycled materials; even the paints are handmade by the artist! Every piece is a testimony of a place in the mind. Michael Shephers's Origami Tsunami at Owl & the Pussycat (154 Vandberbilt). Mixed media paintings Words, Birds & Scribbles. Ainsley Burrows and Pillow Café & Lounge (505 Myrtle) Ainsley Burrows combine dadaist, surrealist, graffiti art and modern expressionism. His messages are whimsical and political at the same time. artwork: Adrian Coleman

Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Produce Donated to Occupy Sandy Clinton Hill Headquarters

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 11:25:00 -0400

While we are sad to not be able to open the Farm Stand today we are happy that the food that was delivered this morning from J. Glebocki Farms has been donated to Occupy Sandy Clinton Hill headquarters at The Church of St. Luke and St. Matthew located at 520 Clinton Ave. As of 1:30PM yesterday this location was out of food and the following donations requested: Meat/Chicken/Ground Beef, Vegetables, Non-Perishables (Canned goods, soups, vegetables) Dry goods and ready to eat food(Cereal, power bars, granola, crackers, etc., winter gear (jackets, gloves, etc) but no general clothes. For more information and to volunteer locally click here .

Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand will be CLOSED Tomorrow, 11/7/12

Tue, 06 Nov 2012 17:06:00 -0400

Hunker down New Yorkers! According to the National Weather Service they are anticipating high winds and heavy rain for tomorrow. So, sadly, we will not have our final Farm Stand. We have enjoyed the season and thank all of you that have visited and shopped at the market! Feel free to contact Kassy Nystrom, Food Access Initiatives Program Manger at the MARP office with any questions, concerns or suggestions for next year's market - 718-230-1689 or kassy@myrtleavenue.org. We hope that those who have been affected by Hurricane Sandy will have a safe and dry place to be tomorrow. Warm, dry and safe wishes to all!

Election Day Party @ Pillow Cafe tonight, 11/6!

Tue, 06 Nov 2012 16:04:00 -0400

Okay, after you've gone out and rocked the vote, stop by Pillow Cafe-Lounge tonight to watch the election results roll in. Don't yell at the TV all by yourself, stop over at Pillow for great company, great eats and drinks. 'The Big Queer Election Watch Party' at Pillow Cafe, 6:30pm-until. Everyone's welcome! Pillow Cafe-Lounge is located at 505 Myrtle Avenue between Grand and Ryerson.

Park Avenue Safety Plan Update: Rainwater and the BQE

Tue, 06 Nov 2012 12:43:00 -0400

With Superstorm Sandy in the rearview mirror and a noreaster brewing over the Atlantic, this week we look at rainwater and the BQE. Just a few short years ago New York State DOT completed a major rehabilitation of the elevated portion of the BQE between Navy and Steuben. Lighting was greatly improved (only the area under the BQE at Steuben remains below standard). However, the downspouts that direct BQE runoff to storm drains are already leaking profusely. If you pass under/near the area during a rain storm you will see countless downspouts leaking some heavily onto the roadway below. We call on NYS DOT to fix this eyesore. We also believe that the runoff from the BQE could be used, instead of mixed with sewage and discarded. Innovative planters could be installed at the edge of the parking areas (where these is some sun) and runoff could be directed into them, feeding plants and reducing the frequency/volume of combined sewer overflow events. See the Park Avenue Safety Plan for more details. As a reminder, Please spread the word about the online petition. Stay tuned for more updates and spotlights&

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefit Replacement for Sandy Victims

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 12:28:00 -0400

The following information was shared by Hunger Solutions - If you lost food purchased with SNAP benefits due to Hurricane Sandy, there is help available. Current SNAP households that have lost food purchased with their benefits as a result of the storm are entitled to replacement benefits. Q - What do I need to do? A - If you are a current SNAP recipient and live in Nassau, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Suffolk, Sullivan or Westchester counties, or one of 77 zip codes in New York City that experienced extended power loss, including all of Staten Island, partial replacement SNAP benefits will automatically be deposited in your Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) account beginning next week. A complete list of zip codes in New York City that are included can be found here . Additional zip codes in New York City may be added as more power loss information becomes available. Q - How much are these replacement SNAP benefits worth? A - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has agreed to provide current SNAP recipients in these areas with 50% of their October monthly benefit amount. Q - What if I dont live in one of the areas receiving the automatic benefit replacement? You can still request replacement SNAP benefits from your local department of social services by following these steps: - You must report the loss of food purchased with SNAP benefits to your local social services office by Wednesday, November 28, 2012, either verbally or in writing.
- You must then return a signed and completed form, found at otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/2291.pdf, by close of business on Monday, December 10, 2012. The form is also available at local social services offices.
- You must then return and sign a completed Request for Replacement of Food Purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Benefits form by close of business Monday, December 10, 2012.
There are two versions of this form you may use either version if you live in a county outside of New York City. If you live in New York City, you are asked to use the LDSS-2291A form. To access that form in English Click here . Versions of this form in other languages may be found at here .
You may also follow these steps if you live in Nassau, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Suffolk, Sullivan or Westchester counties, or one of 77 zip codes in New York City, and need more than you are automatically provided. Q How do I find my local social services office? To find your local department of social services, visit here , or call 1-800-342-3009. Q - Will receiving the replacement SNAP benefits affect my November monthly SNAP benefit amount? No, you will still receive the same monthly benefit amount you normally receive in November, and you will receive your benefits on the same day of the month that you normally receive your benefits. Q Can I use my SNAP benefits to purchase hot foods and prepared foods? A Current SNAP recipients in these seven counties and in all of New York City are now able to use their benefits to purchase hot foods and prepared foods. Q Where can I use my SNAP benefits to purchase hot or prepared food? A - The food must be purchased at authorized retailers, like grocery stores, that already accept your SNAP benefit card (your Electronic Benefit Transfer EBT card). Q For how long may I use my SNAP benefits to purchase hot or prepared food? From now until November 30, 2012. Q What if my store doesnt know that I can use my SNAP benefits to purchase hot or prepared food? A New York State and the U.S. Department of Agriculture are working on informing retailers of this new policy. If you encounter a retailer who isnt aware of the new policy, please ask them to call 1-800-342-3009 for more information.

Fort Greene Greenmarket remains OPEN this Saturday

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 08:25:00 -0400

The Fort Greene Greenmarket, located at Washington Park btw DeKalb & Willoughby, will be open regular hours 8AM-4PM this Saturday but there will be NO food scrap collection or textiles collection. For a city-wide listing of Greenmarket status for the weekend visit the GrowNYC Blog .

Local Shelters Need Our Help

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 08:37:00 -0400

Sandy has past and now it's time to clean up and help out those in need. Word on the street is that our neighbors in Brooklyn Tech Shelter need the following items:
warm clothes - coats, sweaters, socks
hygiene products
games, cards, things for entertainment
blankets
The shelters in Fort Greene specifically are in need of Spanish speaking volunteers. Local shelters:
I.S. 117, 300 Willoughby Avenue
Brooklyn Tech High School, 29 Fort Greene Place For a list of city-wide shelters go here. To volunteer city-wide you can visit NYCService.org. Their website states, "Please email nycservice@cityhall.nyc.gov with your name, email address, phone number and borough or call 311. There will be ways to volunteer today and over the next week as opportunities arise".

Farm Stand Cancelled today, 10/31/12

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 11:20:00 -0400

The storm has left our farmer farm bound but thankfully the land and crops did not get too beat up by Hurricane Sandy. We will see you next week, November 7th 4-7PM, for a final farm stand of the season. Come say goodbye for the season and support our regional farmers to help soften the financial blow Hurricane Sandy has punched.

Halloween in Fort Greene Park

Sat, 27 Oct 2012 00:48:00 -0400

Sponsored by the Fort Greene Park Conservancy, the Fort Greene Park Halloween Festival will take place on Ssturday, October 27th, from noon to 3:30pm. The Festival features a plethora of activities for children and their parents including hayrides, face-painting, inter-active children's music and dance, games and prizes plus live entertainment, culminating in a children's costume parade. The Children's Costume Parade and Contest will be held at 3:30 pm. A free pumpkin will be available for each and every child, and they get to decorate it too (while supplies last). Also on Saturday in the Park, 12noon to 1pm, the Great PUPkin, Halloween Dog Costume Contest. The annual contest is sponsored by the Fort Greene Park Users and Pets Society (PUPS). Registration begins at 11:30am, contest held at top of hill, near the monument. $5 contest entrance fee. Prizes from many local, wonderful establishments, including this year, Clinton Hill Animal Clinic, Green in BKLYN, Green Pets, Le Petit Bakery and Gnarly Vines. Please check out the Fort Greene Park Conservancy or PUPS websites for further details. (pic from the Fort Greene Park Conservancy website)

Halloween on and around Myrtle 2012

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 23:25:00 -0400

Halloween is always a blast on Myrtle Avenue. Adult-, child- and family- friendly activities abount. Hope to see you on the Avenue: enjoy! Halloween at the Trilok lot, sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnerhip 2p-6p at Trilok Fusion lot on the corner of Myrtle and Waverly. Puppet Making Fun for the kids, teens and adults! Kids will have the chance to make their own pumpkin Jack-o-lantern by giving new life to recyclable materials. The grown-ups can learn to sculpt a creepy finger puppet-head from foam rubber. Workshop will be taught by Kevin Augustine, artistic director of Lone Wolf Tribe and one of New York Citys most unique puppet artisans. Trilok Fusion Center for Arts & Education (Saturday) Trilok Fusion Center for Arts & Education hosts its first annual Halloween Festival on Saturday from 1p-6p. Free admission. Pony rides, bouncy castle, games, face painting, costume parade, food by local vendors and much more! Gift basket raffle to raise funds for their childrens international travel program. Halloween Festival to take place in the Trilok Fusion Center for Arts & Education lot at Myrtle-Waverly corner. Trilok Fusion Center for Arts & Education can be reached at: 718.797.1700. Just Because Salon (throughout Halloween week) Drop by Just Because Salon for a glimpse of old-fashioned holiday window dressing. Frightful skeleton chillin in the window. Dont let all of the owners creative work go unnoticedcheck it out. Swing by with the kids! Just Because Salon is located at 141 Carlton Avenue and can be reached at 718.722.7810. Polish Bar of Brooklyn (Saturday - Wednesday) Need some help keeping your Halloween makeup on point? Stop in at Polish Bar of Brooklyn. Yes, its true, come on out to Polish to get those finishing touches before you head out trick-or-treating or to that Halloween bash. Call for more details: 718.622.5363. Dope Jams (Saturday into Sunday) Dope Jams 5th Annual Halloween Costume Ball from 10p until 6am. The guys at Dope Jams really, and we mean like reallllly get into Halloween, and this years Halloween is no different. Its time for Dope Jams 5th Annual Costume Ball and party (from the Dope Jams guys: LIFE aims to save dance music from the dark shadows of banality and to once again make it exciting and NEW. Always forward, never backwards, and yet always aware of the movement, the progress that music must continue if it is to survive. Against transitory mediocrity we must stand, and so we embark once more to explore the essence of social transcendence through musical exercise." Music: Francis Englehardt & Paul Nickerson; Guest DJ: Jonny Romero. Cover: $5 for members/ $15 for non-members. Dope Jams is located at 580 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.622.7977. Luz (Wednesday) Enjoy Halloween fright films that will be looped and streaming at Luz. Come dressed in your costume and get a free glass of sangria. Kids dressed in costume get free ice cream, yum. Luz is located at 177 Vanderbilt Avenue, just south of Myrtle. Call for more details: 718.246.4000. Maggie Brown (Wednesday) Maggie Brown will be giving away candy and a free spooky shot to those in costume (and over 21)! Maggie Brown is located at 455 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.643.7001. Five Spot Soul Food & Supper Club Five Spot will be hosting a costume party this weekend. Also, during the day on Wednesday, kids can stop by to pick up more for their candy stashes, starting at 3! Five Spot is located at 459 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.852.0202. Rope (Saturday) Stop by with some love. Starts at 5 pm. Rope is located at 415 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.522.2899. The Emerson (Wednesday) Pumpkin Carving and Painting by day + Happy Hour from 2p-7p. Parents and other adults participating in backyard pumpkin carving and artwork get 2-for-1 draft and well drinks. Bring your kids, a pumpkin and some supplies if you have. The Emerson will provide some supplies. Halloween Party and Costume Contest $4 Pumpkin Ale on draft, $4 Halloween Cocktail. Bring a small painted or carved pumpkin and get a FREE drink! Best Costume wins $100 Cash and $50 Bar Tab. 2nd Place $50 bar tab. The Emerson is located at 561 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 347.763.1310. Touché (Wednesday) Black Street Masquerade Party and Fundraiser. Party it up to your hearts content! 6p-11p $10 w/RSVP til 12midnight. Email to info@blackstreetonline.com or 646.397.0772. Doors open at 5pm. Touche Lounge is located at 46 Washington Avenue. Call for more details: 917.208.0641. Putnams Pub & Cooker (Saturday into Sunday) Putnams 2nd annual Halloween party and costume contest on Saturday from 10p-4p! 1st prize-$200. Second prize is a $50 bar tab. 3rd prize is a $20 bar tab. Free entry! Free Halloween shot when you register! DJ Max Power at the turntablehey, hey. Putnams is located at 419 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 347.799.2382. Mojito Cuban Cuisine (Wednesday) Happy Hour 2-for-1 drinks all day on Halloween. Mojito Cuban Cuisine is located at 82 Washington Avenue. Call for more details: 718.797.3100. Myrtle Car Service (Wednesday) Myrtle Car is candy central once again. Stop in for all your favorite candies on Monday. If you can find it at the candy store, you can find it at Myrtle Car on Halloween as they take the day quite seriously. You wont be disappointed by the growth of your candy stash. Myrtle Car Service is located at 525 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.230.8100. Los Pollitos III (Wednesday) Costume contest at Los Pollitos III. Raffles to win 'dinner for two' prizes. Los Pollitos promises discounts so deep on the sangria that it will be like giving it away. Los Pollitos III is located at 499 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.636.6125. Brooklyn Public Library, Walt Whitman Branch (Wednesday) Kids party at the Whitman Branch. Call for time. The one-story Walt Whitman Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library has a separate childrens room and internet access. The branch is wheelchair-accessible. The Whitman Branch is located at 93 St. Edwards Street between Myrtle and Park. Call for details: 718.935.0244. 19th Annual Halloween Walk (Wednesday) Bring your trick-or-treaters for a fun time at the 19th Annual Halloween Walk sponsored by the Society for Clinton Hill. The walk begins at the Pratt-Clinton Hill Community Garden on the corner of Hall Street and DeKalb Avenue. The Halloween Walk starts at 5:30pm and ends at 7:00pm on Wednesday, rain or shine. Trick-or-treating maps will be provided. Parents and guardians must accompany their children for the entire Walk. The Brooklyn Halloween Show (Monday) The Brooklyn Halloween Show is held at 227 Waverly Avenue (between Dekalb and Willoughby). Oct. 31 at 6:30, 7 and 7:30 p.m. This is part of the Clinton Hill Halloween Walk. Pick up a map of selected houses for candy and decorations. Halloween Festival (Ssturday) The Fort Greene Park Conservancy Halloween Festival, 12-3 pm, in the park. This event includes games, entertainment, face painting, costume parade and a slew of free pumpkins for kids of all ages. The Great PUPkin Dog Costume Contest (Saturday) Fort Greene PUPS presents The Great PUPkin Dog Costume Contest, registration at 11:30, judging at noon 1 pm. Takes place on the steps of the Monument for observers and on the lower terrace for the dogs (in costume.) Cielo Bar (Friday and Saturday) Costume Party on Friday and Saturday at Cielo Bar Gnarly Vines Wine Tastings (Saturday) The Italian Chainsaw Massacre Saturday, October 27th, 5-8pm Take a stab at sipping these four fab wines Saturday night! The 70s saw the most wonderful collection of horrifically, fake-blood splattered, sensationally spooky slasher flicks that required no reading of subtitles - horror is a universal language! But these boot-centric sippers we'll be pouring Saturday night aren't scary at all - they're quite the opposite. And the chainsaw? Aw, that's just a vineyard in Oregon where some mighty lovely Pinot hails. So break out your best plastic pumpkin and come on in for some treats of the pourable kind. 2011 D'Alfonso del Sordo - Catapanus - Bombino Bianco - Daunia, Puglia, Italy - $14 Great with garlicky, buttery shrimp and mussels! 2010 Witness Tree 'Chainsaw' Pinot Noir - Salem, Oregon - $24 Scary name; beautiful wine. This fruit is sourced from the Chainsaw vineyard in the Eola Hills, and shows elegance and structure that has put Oregon Pinot on the map. Lean, herby, with notes of black cherry and strawberry, and a spicy, savory finish that's perfect for roasted quail with pomegranates. 2009 Gricos Aglianico del Vulture - Basilicata, Italy - $14 Some wine minds consider Aglianico to be Southern Italy's best grape. The Gricos is 100% Aglianico from the volcanic soils near Mt. Vulture in Basilicata, where Aglianico grows best. This is an excellent, medium-bodied red with ripe, clean, dark fruit and licorice flavors balanced by firm tannins. 2008 Cantina del Pino Barbaresco - Piedmont, Italy - $38 Cantina del Pino has emerged recently as one of the most important producers of Barbaresco.We generally write in-depth notes when tasting new wines for the store, but for this one we all wrote only one word: Awesome! Especially with Bolognese. 15% off featured wines during the tasting! Gnarly Vines Cocktail of the Week: Corpse Reviver #2 Now, now, honey - a nice cocktail will bring you back to life. Feeling dead inside? Wandering the floors like the living dead? Need a little life-booster in your bloodless veins? A Corpse Reviver #2 will put the gust back in your ghoulish sails! Click here for the recipe, but check below for a preview of the evil (like the fru-its of the de-vil) ingredients: Death's Door Distilled Gin - Door County, WI (750ml) - $36 Infused with wild juniper berries that are hand harvested from the fields and forests of Washington Island, plus coriander, fennel, and other native Wisconsin botanicals. Lillet White - France (750ml) - $20 The original French Aperitif since 1887. Made with Bordeaux-centric Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle grapes, and blended with herbs and oranges. Fresh and dry, Lillet is great served chilled with an orange slice. Cointreau Orange Liqueur - Angers, France (375ml) - $21 French brandy infused with sweet and bitter orange peels from Spain, Brazil, and Haiti. An aromatic, intense substitution for triple sec! La Muse Verte Absinthe Traditionnelle - France [750ml] - $57.60 This is one of the rare, true Absinthes that are at the historically accurate 68% alcohol. The final product undergoes a meticulous decantation and filtration process with wool and paper, just like in the old days. (photo: from Fort Greene PUPS Flckr page, Lexi the Leopard. The Great PUPkin costume competition will take place in Fort Greene Park this Saturday, Oct. 28th.

Park Avenue Safety Plan Update: Meeting with DOT

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 14:45:00 -0400

Earlier this week MARP staff met with representatives from the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT). DOT wants to start an official project addressing many of the issues we outlined in the Park Avenue Safety Plan! However, that would not likely happen until 2014. Some things could happen sooner, before a formal project. Following are some highlights from the meeting: DOT initiated a warrant study to determine if pedestrian volumes on the superblock warrant a traffic signal. DOT captured speed data on Park and is getting volume data. Countdown pedestrian clocks will be coming to all intersections, probably next year. DOT initiated a lighting efficiency study, to determine where light levels are low. Any place that does not meet the minimum requirements will get additional lighting. DOT will look into adding stop signs and no parking pavement markings near the entrance/exit of each parking area under the BQE. MARP have some follow-up to do as well. We will do our part. Will you do yours? Please spread the word about the online petition. Stay tuned for more updates and spotlights&

Fall Health Fair at Myrtle Village Green this Sunday

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 14:29:00 -0400

Myrtle Village Green, a neighborhood association, that recently gained access to a closed Department of Environmental Protection Water Tunnel shaft site on Myrtle Avenue and is in the process of converting it into a community space, is hosting a Fall Health Fair on Sunday 10/28/12 2:30-5PM! Everyone is welcome - composting workshop at 2:30, free health screenings, yoga workshops, live music and much more! Join in and share the event with friends!
Where: 636 Myrtle Avenue between Kent and Franklin
Time: 2:30- 5PM
Contact: Robyn Smith - rsmith@imagineexhibitions.com

Join us TODAY for the Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Harvest Fest & Food Day Celebration!

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 13:50:00 -0400

Join us for our 3rd annual Harvest Fest tomorrow, Wednesday, 10/24/12 from 4-7PM on the corner of North Portland and Myrtle Avenues! We will also be celebrating Food Day, a nationwide celebration and a movement for healthy, affordable, and sustainable food! There will be FREE mini-pumpkins for the kids*, face painting from 4:30-6:45, and Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chefs Millie and Michelle will prepare kid friendly, healthy recipes for all to taste! And, of course, you can stock up on local fruits and veggies from J. Glebocki Farms, Tilapia from VertiCulture Aquaponics, Raspberry Jam & Mighty Hot Pepper Jelly from Beth's Farm Kitchen via Farmer's Web and Maple Syrup from Poorfarm Farm
We accept EBT/WIC/Health Bucks/cash! Event Special: spend $6 or more and get $2 of free produce! *while supplies last

Artober Reception this Wednesday Night at Cielo Bar

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 10:15:00 -0400

Make sure to stop by Myrtle's newest bar and lounge, Cielo, for our Artober reception this Wednesday at 6:30pm. Come out to sample Cielo's tasty Latin fusion fare, and raise a glass to local artists and art! Light refreshments on us. The reception is a single event that celebrates the art and artists featured during Myrtle Avenue's month-long Artober series (see full list of artists below). During the past month, Artober has seen 8 art exhibitions hosted by Myrtle Merchants; 4 artist receptions & talks; the installation of Tomorrow, a new sculpture, in Fort Greene Park; the This Is Brooklyn Myrtle Windows Gallery exhibition. The Myrtle Windows Gallery will remain on view until early November. In addition, the installation of new tree guards, each custom designed by local artists and students, is set to take place within the next couple of weeks along Myrtle Avenue between Flatbush and Classon Avenues. In addition to these events on Myrtle Avenue, the exhibit War Journalists is also currently on display (through October) at BLDG 92, the Brooklyn Navy Yard's visitor center. BLDG 92 is also the venue for a new play, A History of Launching Ships , with the final performances taking place this weekend. Get ticket info here. Please see the full list of Myrtle and Myrtle area interior exhibition spaces below:

This Is Brooklyn Myrtle Windows Gallery exhibition

Audrey Frank Anastasi (painting), hanging in Connecticut Muffin, 423 Myrtle
Adrian Coleman (painting), hanging in Anima, 458 Myrtle, and Brooklyn Jiu Jitsu, 412 Myrtle
Liz Johnson (painting), hanging in Green in Brooklyn, 434 Myrtle
Marilyn Kaggen (photography), hanging in Karrot, 431 Myrtle
Ani Kington (painting), hanging in Miracles, 473A Myrtle
Thomas Osorio (painting), hanging in Soketah, 563 Myrtle

Interior Exhibitions along Myrtle Avenue
Cielo Bar Brooklyn (474 Myrtle) Chris Pardi (painting) Connecticut Muffin (423 Myrtle) Kerri Ferrara (painting) DC Optics (390 Myrtle) South of the Navy Yard Artists / Out of Sight (mixed media) The first of four SONYA exhibitions features urban-inspired, colorful work that reflects what is great, marvelous and powerful. The Emerson (561 Myrtle) Dave Barron Gnarly Vines (350 Myrtle) Fabrice Trombert (photography) Green in BKLYN (432 Myrtle) Deborah Stevenson (painting) Hadas Gallery (541 Myrtle) Rosa Katznelson / Jubilation (painting and digital) Born in Argentina under a period marked by virulent anti-Semitism, Katznelson paints in defiance to the adversity she experienced as a child. Mojito Cuban Cuisine (82 Washington Avenue) Cesar Velez / Corners of a Soul (mixed media) 20 original pieces are made from recycled materials; even the paints are handmade by the artist! Every piece is a testimony of a place in the mind. Owl & the Pussycat (154 Vandberbilt) Michael Shepherd/Origami Tsunami mixed media paintings Words, Birds & Scribbles Pillow Café & Lounge (505 Myrtle) Ainsley Burrows combine dadaist, surrealist, graffiti art and modern expressionism. His messages are whimsical and political at the same time.

Myrtle Ave Photo Contest: Entries Are Due This Wednesday!

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 09:58:00 -0400

There are only a few days left to submit your photos to the Myrtle Avenue Photo Contest! The deadline to submit is October 24th at 5pm! Take advantage of the next couple of weeks to snap a few photos on Myrtle and submit them for a chance to win a $400 gift certificate! What are we looking for? Bold, eye-catching digital images capturing the architecture, storefronts, people, streetscape elements, and activities on Myrtle Avenue between Flatbush and Classon. Think: images that capture Myrtles unique character, something unsuspectingly beautiful, or the daily hustle and bustle of the Avenue.

The top 10 photographs will be selected by Myrtle Avenue staff from all eligible submissions for the finalist round and showcased on our Flickr site. The general public will select the First Prize, Second Prize and Third Prize Winners by popular vote from the pool of finalists. Voting will take place through our Facebook page. Winners will be announced by October 26, 2012!

PRIZES sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership and Utrecht Art Supplies
First Prize: $400 Gift Certificate
Second Prize: $250 Gift Certificate
Third Prize: $100 Gift Certificate

Submit up to 5 digital images and the contest entry form by October 24th at 5pm. For more information contact photocontest@myrtleavenue.org.

Download all contest information below. Good luck!

Photo Contest Flyer
Entry Form
Official Rules
Legal Conditions
Parental Consent
Personal Release

The Brooklyn Food Coalition Hosts "Moving Toward Race in the Food Justice Movement"

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 08:40:00 -0400

The Brooklyn Food Coalition (BFC) has organized a conversation titled "Moving Toward Race in the Food Justice Movement" between the NYC food justice community and Malik Yakini , Executive Director of the Detroit Black Community Food Security Network, Detroit Food Policy Council and a 2012 James Beard Foundation Awardee, Lorrie Clevenger with Black Urban Gardeners and Why Hunger and Daisy Chung , Executive Director of Restaurant Opportunity Center.
The conversation will address the questions: " How do we create a food movement that is lead by the food justice movement?
" How do we ensure that the food justice movement lifts the leadership and ideas of those most a?ected by the present food system?
" How do we tell the story of the history and present day reality of the food system that illuminates the e?ects of racism?
When: Friday, October 19th, 5-8 pm Where: The Pantry, 407 Lewis Avenue at Decatur St., Bed-Stuy, C/A to Utica Avenue, B 25, 26, 15 $25 for BFC members - become a member today by clicking here
$35 for non-BFC members
Small bites included and affordable cash bar. All proceeds are donated to the Brooklyn Food Coalition.
Don't miss this important conversation and networking opportunity! Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.

Two Artober Events Happening Tonight on Myrtle!

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 13:32:00 -0400

We have not one, but TWO Artober related events are taking place tonight on Myrtle Avenue. First up is the opening reception for the exhibition Out of Sight at DC Optics (390 Myrtle, between Clermont & Vanderbilt). The event goes from 7-9pm and there will be free drinks, snacks, and of course some beautiful artwork by local artists from SONYA. A few blocks away at Hadas Gallery (541 Myrtle, between Steuben & Emerson), artist Rosa Katznelson will be holding an artists talk during the opening of her exhibition, Jubilation . The talk begins at 7pm. Photo credits: The photo on the right is Jubilation by Rosa Katznelson, courtesy of www.hadasgallery.com.

Red Lantern Bicycles: Bike commuting just got easier, safer, and friendlier!

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 17:04:00 -0400

Red Lantern Bikes has been the meeting spot every Thursday morning at 7:30am for a Brooklyn biketrain. A biketrain is a group of bikers who together ride a prearranged route to reach a destination. In this case, a group of Brooklynite bikers head to work in Manhattan together on Thursday mornings, but not before coffee and introductions at the biketrain meeting spot, Red Lantern before they set out. Riding together helps newer riders feel more comfortable on city streets and generally develops a sense of community between the new and experienced riders. Here's more on the story from DNA Info. If you've been longing to ride into work but wishing you could make the generally solo activity a little less solo, stop in at Red Lantern on Thursday mornings for the biketrain. Red Lantern is located at 345 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton. They can be reached at (347) 889-5338. On a completely separate note re Red Lantern Bicycles, the popular bike shop, coffeehouse and bar, is raising monies to improve their storefront, with signage and decals. Click here to check out Red Lantern Bicycles Lucky Ant video about the campaign! Give to receive goodies like free inner tubes and coffee, movie tickets, 2-hour open bar or free tune-up for life in return!

Opening week at The Joint on Myrtle!

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 15:27:00 -0400

If we tell you how good the roasted turkey with basil pesto, avocado and arugula on freshly baked sourdough bread is at The Joint, man (!), you won't believe us. So, stop in, and check it out for yourself! Yummmmmm. Tanya and Taryn from DUMBO's Superfine opened 'The Joint on Myrtle' this past weekend. The menu emphasis in on fresh and affordable, with primarily soups, salads and sandwiches. More of today's menu items: sandwiches: salami soppressatta, roasted peppers, olive tapenade and provolone; blue cheese, fennel, pear, arugula and orange vinaigrette; and ribeye w/aioli, caramelized onions and swiss; soups: fresh lentil and potato and corn; baked goodness: apple cider donuts, buttermilk biscuits; drinks: warm apple cider, cappucino, espresso and coffee. Click here to check out the website for additional info. The space is lovely with its vintage tin and tile. Lots on the drawing board, stay tuned: live music, sound system, a mural in the garden, the launch of a garden drawing series, readings of poetry and the telling of stories; tree plantings, soil and eventually an outdoor fire pit. A long term goal is to create a solar powered kitchen and a garden of heirloom tomatoes, basil and more. The Joint on Myrtle is currently fundraising (by selling limited edition letter press prints of the logo and mono prints by Tanya via tanyarynd.com) to make it all happen. Stop in! The Joint on Myrtle is located at 471 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street or call them at: 347.763.1455.

Myrtle Ave Photo Contest: Only ONE Week Left to Enter

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 11:11:00 -0400

There's only one week left to submit your photos to the Myrtle Avenue Photo Contest! The deadline to submit is October 24th at 5pm! Take advantage of the next couple of weeks to snap a few photos on Myrtle and submit them for a chance to win a $400 gift certificate! What are we looking for? Bold, eye-catching digital images capturing the architecture, storefronts, people, streetscape elements, and activities on Myrtle Avenue between Flatbush and Classon. Think: images that capture Myrtles unique character, something unsuspectingly beautiful, or the daily hustle and bustle of the Avenue.

The top 10 photographs will be selected by Myrtle Avenue staff from all eligible submissions for the finalist round and showcased on our Flickr site. The general public will select the First Prize, Second Prize and Third Prize Winners by popular vote from the pool of finalists. Voting will take place through our Facebook page. Winners will be announced by October 26, 2012!

PRIZES sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership and Utrecht Art Supplies
First Prize: $400 Gift Certificate
Second Prize: $250 Gift Certificate
Third Prize: $100 Gift Certificate

Submit up to 5 digital images and the contest entry form by October 24th at 5pm. For more information contact photocontest@myrtleavenue.org.

Download all contest information below. Good luck!

Photo Contest Flyer
Entry Form
Official Rules
Legal Conditions
Parental Consent
Personal Release

Park Avenue Safety Plan Spotlight: Bus Bulbs

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 13:17:00 -0400

In a little over a month since the release of the Park Avenue Safety Plan, nearly 600 concerned citizens have already shown their support by signing the petition, in hard copy and online . If you havent signed already, please add your voice. Bus bulbs are sidewalk extensions at bus stops that improve safety, bus operations, and provide extra space for amenities. The extension improves safety because it shortens the distance that pedestrians need to cross, while calming traffic. They improve bus operations because buses dont have to pull over and then back out into traffic. Lastly, bus bulbs provide extra sidewalk space for things like bus shelters or benches for waiting passengers. Using passenger data provided by the MTA, we proposed four bus bulbs on Park Avenue, at westbound North Portland, Carlton, Washington, and eastbound Carlton. Stay tuned for more updates and spotlights&

Red Lantern Bikes crowdsource campaign: less than 2 weeks left to make goal!

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 17:41:00 -0400

We feel extremely fortunate that Lucky Ant, the successful crowdsourcing company, decided to work with small business owners in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. They are partnering with local business owners to help businesses crowdsource finance for business growth! Thanks to YOU, Green Pets Spa at 572 Myrtle Avenue surpassed their goal of $5500 in September. Green Pets is now able to transform their concrete-laden backyard space into a greened up meet up space for pets and pet owners. Currently up: Red Lantern Bicycles. With less than 2 weeks left to reach goal, Red Lantern is raising funds for storefront improvement: new signage, decals and window improvements. Click to check out Red Lantern Bicycles Lucky Ant video. Red Lantern is offering all types of goodies to investors, from free coffee and inner tubes; to a "date" with a bike mechanic; to 3 tickets to a screening of the film, Breaking Away + 2 hour open bar; to, check this out, tuneups for life! Interested in getting one of the deals? Please take a couple minutes to check out Red Lantern's Lucky Ant Project Page to find out more and to contribute. Red Lantern Bikes is located at 345 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton and can be reached at 347.889.5338 for further details.

Empire State Building in Gold Tonght, in honor of Pratt's 125 years!

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 15:43:00 -0400

Pratt celebrates 125 years this year. The institution is kicking off the celebration with a gala tonight at the Waldorf-Astoria hotel, which was designed in 1929 by a Pratt alum. Also tonight, in honor of the 125th anniversity of Pratt, the lights of the Empire State Building will glow in gold. Wishing a hearty congratulatons to Pratt Institute on 125 years!

Tomorrow is World Food Day - Celebrate with the Hunger Action Network of New York State

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 12:41:00 -0400

As part of their 30th anniversary, and to celebrate World Food Day, The Hunger Action Network of New York State (HANNYS) is hosting many events around the state to honor the work of the many who have dedicated themselves to eliminating hunger and poverty. HANNYS is "a membership-based network that represents 200 community-based organizations and low-income individuals throughout New York State with a direct stake in ensuring equitable income and food policies." To learn more about their work visit here . The NYC event will take place on World Food Day - Tuesday, October 16th at 310 W. 43rd St., Manhattan, from 5:30 7:30 pm. The NYC "cream of the crop" that will be honored are: Bill DiFazio,Doreen Wohl, the Welfare Rights Initiative,the Brooklyn Food Coalition and the United Food Commercial Workers Union. To learn more about these individuals and organizations click here. Enjoy light refreshments from local purveyors and chefs, New York State wines and micro brews, and DJ Shomi Noise! To purchase tickets or donate to Hunger Action Network click here. For information about the event, contact(212) 741-8192 or visit their website here .

Didgeridoo Workshop at Trilok this Sunday, 10/14

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 14:46:00 -0400

Didgeridoo workshop this Sunday, October 14th at Trilok Fusion Center for the Arts at 143 Waverly Avenue, just north of Myrtle Avenue. The workshop will take plac;e from 1:45p to 4:15p. Contact Leroy T. Smith at 917.941.6857 or ltsmith44@gmail.com for further information. Admission is $25. The didgeridoo, a wind instrument, was developed by indigenous Australians of northern Australia around 1500 years ago. According to Wikepedia, is sometimes described as a natural wooden trumpet or "drone pipe."

Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef at the Fort Greene Greenmarket this Saturday!

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 09:17:00 -0400

Stop by the Fort Greene Greenmarket this Saturday between 11AM- 1PM to have a taste of Myrtle Eats Fresh Chef Roisin's farm fresh, healthy recipe! If you like what you taste (which we know you will!) you can take a recipe and purchase the ingredients right there at the market! The Fort Greene Greenmarket is located along the southeast corner of Fort Greene Park on Washington Park between Dekalb and Willoughby from 8AM - 5PM year-round every Saturday. The Greenmarket accepts EBT/Food Stamps, Debit/Credit, and WIC & FMNP checks accepted. EBT/Debit/Credit accepted 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. In addition, Health Bucks are now available - for every $5 spent in EBT, customers receive a $2 Health Buck coupon to purchase additional fruits and vegetables! The Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Program includes a diverse group of 15 local residents who share the goal of improving the health of their neighbors by providing easy, nutritious, and affordable recipes. All chefs have completed 20+ hours of training and have conducted cooking demos at local farmers markets, community events, and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) distribution sites. If you are interested in having a Community Chef at your event, please contact us at 718-230-1689 or kassy@myrtleavenue.org!

Don't Miss "The Stoop" Event Hosted by FOKUS on Saturday 10/13/12

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 08:49:00 -0400

Finally "The Stoop" event date has arrived! Due to bad weather, event host FOKUS had to reschedule the event earlier this summer, but it is well worth the wait! For their fifth year in a row, FOKUS brings us "The Stoop", a celebration of art, music and life. The Stoop will feature live performances, DJs, games, activities, interactive arts stations, live art and many prizes! Visit Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Beryl Benbow between 3-5PM and sample her Black Bean and Corn Salsa recipe, yum! When: October 13, 2012
Where: Fort Greene Park (at N. Portland & Myrtle Avenues)
Time: 1-6pm
Who: folks of all ages!
Cost: FREE

A History of Launching Ships @ BLDG 92

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 17:18:00 -0400

We're really excited about this first-ever theatrical production at the Brooklyn Navy Yard's BLDG 92 -- The History of Launching Ships! The play debuted last night and will continue thru October 28th. Theatergoers can present programs or ticket confirmation order confirmations to a list of participating Myrtle restaurants to receive dinner discounts. From the website: "A History of Launching Ships is the first-ever theatrical production at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. This site-specific production will lead audiences through the three-floor museum over the course of the performance, stopping to watch scenes among BLDG 92's exhibits. The Yards spirit and elements of its history act as seeds for the plays mysterious story of four women isolated together inside the gates of a Naval Commandants home on the banks of an unnamed bay. Playwright Avi Glickstein has used the story of real-life Revolutionary heroine Elizabeth Burgin and archival materials from BLDG 92s collection, as well as the gothic New York tales of Washington Irving, as a jumping-off point to create a uniquely American, ghostly tale of his own that echoes the Yards history as a center of innovation, reinvention, and sacrifice in service of a larger purpose." In the winter of 1779, a woman named Elizabeth Burgin defied New York Citys British occupiers by helping hundreds of patriots escape from prison ships anchored offshore of what is now the Brooklyn Navy Yard. With a bounty on her head, she fled the city. A History of Launching Ships, a new play by Avi Glickstein, joins Burgin during her flight from the British and places her in the middle of a fantastical tale that echoes the gothic stories of Washington Irving. The play, commissioned by Polybe + Seats and written for the unique environment of The Brooklyn Navy Yard Center at BLDG 92, tells the story of the three women who take Burgin in and hide her. Each woman seeks an escape from her own reality, and, together, they realize that the only way to freedom might be on a ship they build themselves. The one and a half hour performance will involve some walking and standing on the part of the audience; ramps and elevators will be available. Click here for further info. Show your programs or ticket order confirmations at the following Myrtle restaurants for pre- or post- dinner discounts: CakeJoy Bakery 364 Myrtle btw Adelphi and Clermont Le Petit Bakery 354 Myrtle btw Adelphi and Carlton Cielo Bar 474 Myrtle btw Washington Avenue and Hall Putnam's Pub & Cooker 419 Myrtle btw Vanderbilt and Clinton Mark's Gourmet Burgers 441 Myrtle btw Clinton and Waverly The Emerson 561 Myrtle btw Emerson and Classon Pushkin Creperie & Bakery 541 Myrtle btw Steuben and Emerson Mojito Cuban Cuisine 82 Washington Avenue btw Park and Flushing Sans Souci Restaurant & Bar 330 Myrtle btw Washington Park and Carlton Kum Kau Restaurant 463 Myrtle btw Washington Avenue and Hall Anima Italian Bistro 458 Myrtle btw Waverly and Washington Waza Sushi & Ramen 485 Myrtle btw Hall and Ryerson Los Pollitos III 499 Myrtle btw Hall and Ryerson Dee & Ricky's 503 Myrtle btw Ryerson and Grand Soco 509 Myrtle btw Ryerson and Grand

Artober: SONYA Happy Hour Tonight!

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 11:55:00 -0400

Come enjoy another art related event happening tonight on Myrtle Avenue. South of the Navy Yard Artists (SONYA) is hosting a social/happy hour at The Emerson (561 Myrtle, between Emerson & Classon) from 7-9. Come mingle with local artists and enjoy $6 drink specials. See full details here. MARP is sponsoring and promoting a whole slate of art related events throughout October. The next Artober related events will be next Thursday, Oct 18th, and include an artist talk by Rosa Katznelson at Hadas Gallery (541 Myrtle) and an artist's reception at D.C. Optics (390 Myrtle) for the exhibit Out of Sight.

Myrtle Ave Photo Contest: Only Two Weeks Left to Enter

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 15:31:00 -0400

Only two weeks left to submit your photos to the Myrtle Avenue Photo Contest! The deadline to submit is October 24th at 5pm! Take advantage of the next couple of weeks to snap a few photos on Myrtle and submit them for a chance to win a $400 gift certificate! What are we looking for? Bold, eye-catching digital images capturing the architecture, storefronts, people, streetscape elements, and activities on Myrtle Avenue between Flatbush and Classon. Think: images that capture Myrtles unique character, something unsuspectingly beautiful, or the daily hustle and bustle of the Avenue.

The top 10 photographs will be selected by Myrtle Avenue staff from all eligible submissions for the finalist round and showcased on our Flickr site. The general public will select the First Prize, Second Prize and Third Prize Winners by popular vote from the pool of finalists. Voting will take place through our Facebook page. Winners will be announced by October 26, 2012!

PRIZES sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership and Utrecht Art Supplies
First Prize: $400 Gift Certificate
Second Prize: $250 Gift Certificate
Third Prize: $100 Gift Certificate

Submit up to 5 digital images and the contest entry form by October 24th at 5pm. For more information contact photocontest@myrtleavenue.org.

Download all contest information below. Good luck!

Photo Contest Flyer
Entry Form
Official Rules
Legal Conditions
Parental Consent
Personal Release

Park Avenue Safety Plan Spotlight: Intersection Treatments

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 13:37:00 -0400

In a little over a month since the release of the Park Avenue Safety Plan, nearly 600 concerned citizens have already shown their support by signing the petition, in hard copy and online . If you havent signed already, please add your voice. Today we look at one of the core proposals to calm traffic and improve safety on Park Avenue: Intersection Treatments. Most crashes occur at intersections. The intersections on Park Avenue are especially awkward due to the parking area under the elevated BQE. In essence, each intersection has three intersections: eastbound Park Avenue, the parking area, and westbound Park Avenue. Proposals at most intersections include: stop signs at exits of parking areas; raised crosswalk/driveway at entrances/exits to parking areas; curb cuts at pedestrian islands; neckdowns (temporary or permanent); and No Parking markings along the cross street under the BQE. We also propose left-turn lanes at high traffic intersections, as well as fully pedestrianized areas of key crossings. Stay tuned for more updates and spotlights&

Everyone, members and non-members, are Invited to the Greene Hill Food Co-op Fall Celebration

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 20:21:00 -0400

Join the Greene Hill Food Co-op for food, kids activities, dancing and more at their 2012 Fall Celebration, co-hosted by Bed-Stuys own Sound Liberation Front (SLF)!

Who? Everyone in the neighborhood, even if youre not a Member of the Co-op!
Whats it Cost? Nothing! Its FREE!
When? Saturday, October 6, from noon to 6pm. (Rain date Oct. 13)
Where? Our backyard, at 18 Putnam Av.

This is also a great opportunity for non-members to come check-out the co-op and, for this day only, shop at the store! Come see first-hand why you should become a member!

For more information click here.

Park Avenue Safety Plan Spotlight: Median Parking

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 10:49:00 -0400

Its been almost a month since we released the Park Avenue Safety Plan. Over 500 concerned citizens have already shown their support by signing the petition, in hard copy and online . If you havent signed already, please add your voice. Today we look at one of the innovative (and inexpensive) ideas to calm traffic on Park Avenue: Median Parking. Each side of Park Avenue has three lanes: one for parking, one center travel lane, and a travel lane adjacent to a median. During rush hour, traffic volume is significant. However, during off hours volumes are low. What do you think drivers do with wide open space and green lights? They speed. Allowing median parking during off hours will narrow the roadway and calm traffic. It will also provide parking for residents who use their cars during the day but park overnight. This idea is similar but not identical to what DOT recently did on Hicks Street . Stay tuned for more updates and spotlights&

Celebrate Artober on Myrtle Avenue: Public Art & Exhibitions

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 13:14:00 -0400

It's Artober on Myrtle Avenue! Throughout the month, stroll the avenue to enjoy public sculpture, studio art, and even new street furniture! We've got a new Myrtle Windows Gallery exhibition opening next week, the Tomorrow sculpture by Akihiro Ito at Fort Greene Park, 50 new tree guards and benches featuring designs by local artists and students coming in late October, and 10+ exhibitions, events and talks happening at local businesses throughout the month. View complete exhibition and event listings for Artober here.

Make sure to join us on October 24th at new Myrtle bar, Cielo, at the Artober reception. Come out to sample Cielo's tasty Latin fusion fare, and raise a glass to local artists and art! Light refreshments on us.

Tomorrow: Sculpture by Akihiro Ito at Fort Greene Park!

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:38:00 -0400

You may have stopped by the Myrtle and Washington Park this week and wondered what was happening there. It was artist, Akihiro Ito (pictured here), installing his scultpure, Tomorrow, as the newest project in Myrtle's Public Art Program! Installation is now complete, and the piece will be on view through August 2013.

Tomorrow, illustrates the harmony between humans and their natural surroundings, and reminds us of the importance of preserving our environment. Tomorrow is made of 600 pieces of laminated dimensional wood (Douglas fir) which form the shape of a baby a symbol of future generations. He used this material to draw the connection between people and nature. Mr. Ito says, Nowadays, we are facing serious environmental problems such as global warming, waste and resource depletion. We have to preserve nature and save our earth for our future generations and for all living beings. I hope this sculpture provides an opportunity for people to think about humanitys connection to nature, and reminds us that we are all part of earths family. For more information about the artist, visit www.akihiroito.com.

This installation is sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership, in collaboration with the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation. The Partnerships support is made possible, in part,by public funds from the Decentralization Program of the New York State Council on the Arts, administered in Kings County by Brooklyn Arts Council (BAC).

Affordable Studio Apartments Still Available at Navy Green

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 10:06:00 -0400

The Pratt Area Community Council (PACC) has announced that single-occupancy, studio apartments are still available at 40 Vanderbilt Avenue, one of the new affordable housing buildings in the Navy Green development. An open house will be held this Saturday, from noon to 3pm, for interested applicants to tour the available apartments and submit an application. For more details, see this article on the Fort Greene Patch. Applications can also be picked up at PACC's office, 896-900 Fulton St. between Washington & Waverly Avenunes. Or for more information, call 40 Vanderbilt Management at 347-482-0683. Photo courtesy of Brownstoner.com.

DEADLINE EXTENDED: Myrtle Photo Contest

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 16:19:00 -0400

With plenty of beautiful fall weather to serve as a backdrop, and a month full of public art activities coming up on the Avenue in October, we've decided to extend the photo contest deadline to October 24th at 5pm! Take advantage of the next few weeks to snap a few photos on Myrtle and submit them for a chance to win a $400 gift certificate!
-------------------------------
Enter the Myrtle Avenue Photo Contest for a chance to win prizes and have your photo featured on our website, Facebook, and Twitter (@MyrtleAveBKLYN)!

What are we looking for? Bold, eye-catching digital images capturing the architecture, storefronts, people, streetscape elements, and activities on Myrtle Avenue between Flatbush and Classon. Think: images that capture Myrtles unique character, something unsuspectingly beautiful, or the daily hustle and bustle of the Avenue.

The top 10 photographs will be selected by Myrtle Avenue staff from all eligible submissions for the finalist round and showcased on our Flickr site. The general public will select the First Prize, Second Prize and Third Prize Winners by popular vote from the pool of finalists. Voting will take place through our Facebook page. Winners will be announced by October 26, 2012!

PRIZES sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership and Utrecht Art Supplies
First Prize: $400 Gift Certificate
Second Prize: $250 Gift Certificate
Third Prize: $100 Gift Certificate

Submit up to 5 digital images and the contest entry form by September 25th at 5pm. For more information contact photocontest@myrtleavenue.org.

Download all contest information below. Good luck!

Photo Contest Flyer
Entry Form
Official Rules
Legal Conditions
Parental Consent
Personal Release

Park Avenue Safety Plan Spotlight: Superblock Crosswalks

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 10:38:00 -0400

Its been less than three weeks since we released the Park Avenue Safety Plan. Nearly 500 concerned citizens have already shown their support by signing the petition, in hard copy and online. If you havent signed already, please add your voice. Now is a good time to examine one of the many proposals in the plan. Our kickoff event was held on Park Avenue at St. Edwards, which is in the middle of a four-block superblock which runs from Navy Street to North Portland. There are no safe pedestrian crossings in this four-block stretch, even though both sides have dense housing, parks, schools, and churches. We propose traffic signals and crosswalks at St. Edwards and Monument Walk. The crossing at St. Edwards is particularly important. Not only is St. Edwards in the middle of the superblocks, but a crossing there would lead directly from Ingersoll Houses and PS 67 to the entrance of the newly restored section of Commodore Barry Park. Stay tuned for more updates and spotlights in the coming weeks&

Myrtle Avenue's Storefronts Are Lookin' Good!

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 16:43:00 -0400

Theres been a lot of great storefront and sign work going on this past week on Myrtle Avenue. Heres a rundown of what some of our existing businesses have done to look even better than before: Clinton Hill Hardware (452 Myrtle, between Washington & Waverly): The family owned-hardware shop installed new roll-down security gates yesterday. The new gates, which are a high-quality open-grille design, will allow customers to window shop during off-hours. A new awning is scheduled to come soon! Waza Sushi & Ramen (485 Myrtle, between Hall & Ryerson): This week the restaurant added an old-fashioned style awning to their storefront. The striped awning looks great and will be of great help on sunny days. Carthage 521 (521 Myrtle, between Steuben & Grand): The hookah bar and cafe really transformed their storefront this week by adding a new awning, paired with a prominent new sign. El Cofre Restaurant (454 Myrtle, between Washington & Waverly): Although the restaurant didnt add anything this week, their current storefront and sign has become exposed to the avenue again after two years of sitting in the shadow of scaffolding that was used to perform work above the restaurant. Were happy to be able to see the restaurant in the sunlight again! Shic by Soketah (564 Myrtle, between Emerson & Classon): The hair, nail and beauty bar added a stylish awning, elegant hanging sign and replaced their old solid-panel security gates with a much more attractive open-grille design. The once bland storefront is now one of the most attractive on the avenue. Many other businesses are planning storefront or sign work, so keep your eyes open for more improvements coming soon!

Verticulture Aquaponic Produce is Now Available at the Farm Stand!

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 16:02:00 -0400

On Wednesday we debuted beautiful Chinese cabbage, peppers, basil and Swiss Chard courtesy of pilot project VertiCulture, an aquaponics growing system located on the roof of 33 Flatbush Ave in Brooklyn. The Farm Stand will continue to feature their products - the Tilapia is coming soon! To learn more about VertiCulture and aquaponics growing click here and visit the Farm Stand every Wednesday 4-7PM at Myrtle & N. Portland Avenues to purchase farm fresh food!

Industrial Wallabout Added to the National Register of Historic Places

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 16:56:00 -0400

Wallabout has another district listed on the National Register of Historic Places! The Industrial Wallabout historic district, which runs from Clinton to Grand Avenues between Park and Flushing Avenues, was officially listed on the National Register last month. The district includes 40 historic buildings, most of which were originally designed and built for industrial uses. Noteworthy buildings in the district include the Mergenthaler Linotype Complex on Ryerson, the Rockwood Chocolate Factory Complex on Washington, Flushing and Waverly Avenues. The oldest industrial buildings in the area were built for and housed wholesale food companies. These companies served the nearby Wallabout Market, which was located in what is now the Brooklyn Navy Yard. The area is still predominately used for industry, although several buildings now house residences and a variety of different businesses. The district was added to the New York State Register of Historic Places in early March. The districts nomination report was written by Andrew Dolkart, Director of the Historic Preservation program at Columbia University, and additionally supported by MARP and a grant from the Preservation League of New York State.

Pratt Newsstand: That's the Ticket!

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 16:40:00 -0400

Today's Patch reports on lottery winnings at Pratt Newsstand on Myrtle Avenue. A winning lottery ticket was sold at Myrtle biz, Pratt Newsstand (477 Myrtle Avenue), just days ago. $10,000 was the winning prize for the successul Mega Millions lottery player. Pratt News is located at 477 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street.

Snap a photo on Myrtle, win a $400 gift certificate!

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 16:15:00 -0400

Enter the Myrtle Avenue Photo Contest for a chance to win prizes and have your photo featured on our website, Facebook, and Twitter (@MyrtleAveBKLYN)!

What are we looking for? Bold, eye-catching digital images capturing the architecture, storefronts, people, streetscape elements, and activities on Myrtle Avenue between Flatbush and Classon. Think: images that capture Myrtles unique character, something unsuspectingly beautiful, or the daily hustle and bustle of the Avenue.

The top 10 photographs will be selected by Myrtle Avenue staff from all eligible submissions for the finalist round and showcased on our Flickr site. The general public will select the First Prize, Second Prize and Third Prize Winners by popular vote from the pool of finalists. Voting will take place through our Facebook page. Winners will be announced by October 26, 2012!

PRIZES sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership and Utrecht Art Supplies
First Prize: $400 Gift Certificate
Second Prize: $250 Gift Certificate
Third Prize: $100 Gift Certificate

Submit up to 5 digital images and the contest entry form by September 25th at 5pm. For more information contact photocontest@myrtleavenue.org.

Download all contest information below. Good luck!

Photo Contest Flyer
Entry Form
Official Rules
Legal Conditions
Parental Consent
Personal Release

Urban Farming Meetup on Saturday, Farmers' Market on Sunday: This weekend at Trilok!

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 15:13:00 -0400

The Trilok Center for Arts and Education lot located at the corner of Myrtle and Waverly is going to be chock full of activity this weekend. Green thumbs, not so green thumbs, plant and garden lovers, locavores, DIYs, knowledge seekers, everyone, drop in! This Saturday, 1p-6p: On Saturday (9/15) from 1p-6p, master gardener, Sandor Gubis will be teaching locals of all ages how to grow and care for plants at Satutrday's (9/15) urban farming meet-up at his Urban Green Eco Technology, located within the Trilok lot at 143 Waverly Avenue (corner of Myrtle Avenue). Mr. Gubis grows all of his plants and vegetables using all-natural, toxic-free methods. He will also be sharing info on natural garden techniques as well as "starters," such as how to start urban and rooftop gardens. All attendees will be entered into a plant raffle. Every Sunday, 9a-3p: Farmers' Market is held at the Trilok Center every Sunday. fresh flowers and plants and yummy produce, pickles and freshly baked bread, stop in! photo credit: the Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Local

Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership Wins "Best Tree Guard" in MillionTreesNYC Contest

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 13:29:00 -0400

The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership was awarded "Best Tree Guard" in New York City by MillionTreesNYC. The winning tree guard is located near 438 Myrtle Avenue at Waverly. The custom laser-cut artwork was designed by Natalie Apuzzo, while the ornamental plantings were sponsored by St. Joseph's College. This tree guard is one of 40 custom tree guards installed on Myrtle Avenue under our Street Furniture Design Initiative. The modular frame was designed by the Pratt Design Incubator. Panel art was submitted by local artists. Be on the lookout for new tree guard installations this fall! MillionTreesNYC is a PlaNYC initiative with the Parks Department and New York Resoration Project.

Watch the Fight on Saturday Night (9/15) at Cielo Bar!

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 13:17:00 -0400

Sergio Martinez and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. are set for one of the year's most highly-anticipated bouts, and what should be one of the biggest fights of the year. The fight will take place at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas on Saturday, 9/15. The building is sold out and the fight has real buzz. Watch the big fight at Cielo Barat 474 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. Enjoy the fight on the big screens w/great food, great company and terrific drinks. Check out the happy hour specials: $5.00 Mojitos / Caipirinhas / Margaritas $5.00 Well Drinks / Red & White Wines and Sangria $24 Pitchers (Sangria, Mojitos, Margaritas, Caipirinhas) $3 Beers Give Cielo a call for more info:(347) 529-4143, but best thing -- stop by! 2 drink minimum

Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Back to School Celebration

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 20:29:00 -0400

Thank you to all who came out for our 3rd annual Back to School Celebration! We had MANY kids come by to get their face painted, play a "find the veggie" game in order to get a free tote bag and school supplies and watch Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Rhudi Eagle prepare a Peach and Apple Salsa. It was a fun day and we love visiting with the community over fresh, healthy food! We are on the corner of North Portland and Myrtle Avenues every Wednesday, 4-7PM now through November 7th. We accept Cash/EBT/WIC/FMNP/Health Bucks. Please bring your own bag. See you at the market!

Wallabout Homeowner's Preservation Manual Released

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 12:19:00 -0400

At a Historic Wallabout Association community reception & meeting tomorrow night, Sept 13th from 7-9pm at BLDG 92 in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, the new Wallabout Homeowner's Preservation Manual will be released. The event will also serve as a chance for the neighborhood to celebrate recent preservation successes and for property owners to learn more about available incentives that can assist in home rehab and restoration projects. The 90-page manual, commissioned by MARP and the Historic Wallabout Association, is a valuable resource for owners of historic properties in the Wallabout neighborhood. The manual provides guidance on how to maintain and rehab a historic property, and also discusses available tax credit and other financial incentive programs available to those properties located in the recently designated historic districts in Wallabout. In addition to the manual being available at tomorrow's community event, representatives from the State Historic Preservation Office and the New York Landmarks Conservancy will also be available to discuss incentive programs that can assist property owners with rehabbing their historic homes. A complimentary copy of the manual will be available to all Wallabout property owners, and will be available to purchase for $10 to those outside of Wallabout. The manual was researched and written by BKSK Architects LLP and was funded, in part, by a grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservations Elizabeth and Robert Jeffe Preservation Fund. Additional support was provided by a grant from the Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation.

Park Avenue Safety Plan - Release and Kickoff Event

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 10:47:00 -0400

Thanks to everyone who came out yesterday to support efforts to make Park Avenue safer for pedestrians! We had a great crowd help to mark the release of the Park Avenue Pedestrian Safety Plan, including a class of students from Banneker, community leaders from Ingersoll and Whitman, block captains, Architecture for Humanity NY, Transportation Alternatives, Councilmember James and Assemblymember Lentol, and others representing local elected officials.

Press was there, too, and there's already been some buzz in the blogosphere about the initiative, including this piece on Brownstoner and this one on Streetsblog.

If you haven't yet, please sign the petition, and share it with your neighbors and friends! We'll keep you posted on progress as we share the report with city agencies and decision makers. Stay tuned!

photo: A high school student from Banneker monitors speeding traffic on Park Avenue with a speed gun.

Chase Community Giving Program!

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 22:00:00 -0400

MARP's been voted in! We have a chance to be chosen to receive a grant from the Chase Community Giving Program. Voting takes less than a minute! Click here to vote. Cast your votes to help Chase decide which charities will share in $5 million in grants.

This is Brooklyn Exhibition: Call for Artwork!

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 09:56:00 -0400

Calling local artists! Here's a unique opportunity to display your work on Myrtle Avenue! Have you submitted yet?

The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership seeks existing two-dimensional works of art (paintings, prints, photographs, collage, mixed media, etc.) for temporary installation in 10 storefront windows on Myrtle Avenue between Classon and Vanderbilt beginning in October 2012 for one month (dates to be determined).
" The artworks should relate to the exhibitions theme, This is Brooklyn. What defines or represents Brooklyn for you? How would you describe Brooklyns people, sites or vibe? Its past, present or future?
" If accepted, artworks must arrive ready to hang. The Partnership will not frame or fit any pieces with hanging hardware.
" Although artworks of any size will be considered, pieces of at least 30 in one dimension (either length or width) tend to have a more impactful presence in the storefront space. Some windows can accommodate very large pieces.
" If the artist chooses to offer pieces for sale, the Partnership will receive a small commission on each sale, to be negotiated with the artist prior to the exhibition. Given that community accessibility is a key component of this initiative, the Partnership hope to exhibit works at a broad range of prices.

The installation system serves to create a uniform look that unifies the exhibit, and displays work in a way that highlights and protects the work itself. The system includes a solar shade to provide a clean backdrop for the artwork while maintaining light and view through to the interior of the shop. A cable hanging system allows the artwork to hang in the window in front of the shade. See examples above.

APPLICATION PROCESS
Please submit the following materials by September 12, 2012 to meredith@myrtleavenue.org.
" Brief artist statement and brief description of the submitted artworks, including how each interprets the theme, This is Brooklyn.
" Up to 5 artwork images with index listing title, medium, and dimensions for each artwork. Please combine photos in a zip folder or pdf.
" Current resume

Preference will be given to artists based in NYC, and especially those based in Brooklyn. The Partnership will not provide insurance to cover the art during this exhibition. However, the artist has the option to secure his/her own policy to cover potential theft or damage to the works while installed in the storefronts. Artists will be required to sign a liability waiver. For more information, visit www.myrtleavenue.org or contact meredith@myrtleavenue.org (email preferred).

Photo: Social Comfort by Anne Lafond at Anima

The Greene Hill Food Co-op is Hiring!!

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 10:42:00 -0400

It's exciting to see that the Greene Hill Food Co-op, a member-owned-and-operated food cooperative located in Clinton Hill, is ready to hire their first employee!! The Store Coordinator is a part time position, 25-30 hours a week, and will be paid $19-25/hour, commensurate with experience. Click here for a full job description. To apply, please provide a cover letter and your resume to hiring@greenehillfood.coop by October 1st, 2012. The co-op provides affordable, top-quality food to approximately 1100 members who live in the neighborhoods of Clinton Hill, Fort Greene, Bed-Stuy, Crown Heights, and Prospect Heights. For more information about the co-op visit their website here and become a member today!

Make Park Avenue Safer for Pedestrians! View the report, tour the site and sign the petition!

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 14:08:00 -0400

There are approximately 12,000 residents living just north or south of Park Avenue between Navy and Steuben, as well as six schools, three parks, numerous retail and light-industrial businesses, and churches. Despite this residential profile, Park Avenue is dominated by four lanes of fast-moving traffic bracketing a 300+ space parking area. Speeding traffic has created environmental, travel and sanitation conditions that are unsafe for the many school children, seniors, bus riders and others residents that use the avenue daily. North-south crossings are difficult throughout the site, people are unable to cross during one traffic light cycle, and there is a high car accident rate (76th percentile!).

MARP collaborated with Architecture for Humanity NY to develop the Park Avenue Pedestrian Safety Plan, a set of proposals to improve pedestrian safety and calm vehicular traffic on Brooklyns Park Avenue between Navy and Steuben Streets, creating a safer neighborhood corridor for residents and visitors. Join us for a brief site tour on Monday, September 10th at 2pm, beginning on Park Avenue at St. Edwards Street to highlight site issues, discuss the proposals, and measure vehicle speeds along with Councilmember Letitia James, State Committee Member Lincoln Restler, Transportation Alternatives, and members of the projects Advisory Committee.

This plan recommends interventions like adding crosswalks along the superblock from Navy to North Portland, where there are no safe, controlled crossings for four blocks an area that includes Commodore Barry Park, Ingersoll Houses, Navy Yard Houses and multiple schools. Many other recommendations are simple, but carefully tailored to remedy each blocks issues, like bumpouts to shorten pedestrian crossings, lighting, signage, and re-timed traffic lights to slow traffic.

Sign the petition!
Weve communicated with various agencies throughout the process, but it is important that we continue to show broad-based support for making these improvements as soon as possible. Sign the online petition at www.ParkAvenueSafetyProject.org to continue to build community support for improving pedestrian safety on Park Avenue, and share the link with your neighbors!

The proposals were developed through information gathered at six public meetings, site surveys, and research, with guidance from Community Board 2 and an Advisory Committee made up of representatives from local block associations, tenants associations, residential developments, community-based organizations, city agencies and other stakeholders. Download the full report here.

Metropolitan Market opens on Myrtle Avenue at Flatbush

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 16:45:00 -0400

Metropolitan Market recently opened at 150 Myrtle Avenue at Flatbush. The large ground floor space at the Toren condominium building features a produce section, fresh bread, a full-service deli counter, a large specialty cheese section, as well as multiple aisles of groceries. More sections are coming soon, including sushi. Metropolitan Market is conveniently located near the B/Q/R DeKalb station, the B54, and the entire MetroTech Center.

Fashion's Night Out on Myrtle Avenue Tomorrow Night!

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 14:54:00 -0400

Celebrate the citys fourth annual Fashions Night Out right on Myrtle Avenue this year! The city-wide event is taking place tomorrow night, Thursday, September 6th. If youre not feeling quite up to traversing into Manhattan, you can celebrate fashion locally with these events and deals: Owl and the Pussycat Salon (154 Vanderbilt Ave, between Myrtle & Willoughby): The salon is a participating business thatll be open late for hair and make-up demos and consultations. Also, theyll be launching the new Redken styling product line, with Redken and Smashbox samples available. The music will be turned up, glasses will be full and a general fun vibe will ensue as we celebrate fashion and beauty here in Brooklyn. See more details on their Facebook page. Brooklyn Stone Boutique (366 Myrtle Ave, between Clermont & Adelphi): The local boutique will be open late, till 8pm, with their end of season sale offering great prices to all their Fashions Night Out customers. Check out their website to see some of their fashions. Also, Fashions Night Out is the perfect excuse to visit all of Myrtles other clothing shops. Check out the Clothing & Accessories section of our shopping guide for a complete list of stores.

Hey Shudderbugs: Enter the Myrtle Avenue Photo Contest!

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 17:01:00 -0400

Only 10 more days for Green Pets Spa's crowdfunding campaign!

Sat, 01 Sep 2012 05:13:00 -0400

Please take two minutes to share Green Pets Spa's Lucky Ant project page with all of your pet-loving friends. Together we can do this! Only 10 days left to help Green Pets make its dream a reality! ********* We are really excited that Lucky Ant, the crowdfunding company that works specifically with small businesses has made its way to Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, with its first FG/CH project being a Myrtle Avenue biz! Lucky Ant has committed to working with a few Myrtle Avenue and other local merchants over the next few months. Small businesses are increasingly using crowdsourced financing as a way to fund their growth. Crowdfunding for businesses can be much easier than getting a loan, especially if the business has a proven track record, doesnt need a lot of money and has a great idea on how to improve or expand. Locals supply the funds to make the plan a reality in exchange for some VIP treatment, rewards and perks. First business up Green Pets Spa located at 464 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Classon! In exchange for helping Green Pets achieve its goal of a brand new backyard space, which will include lots of greening and benches for pets and pet owners, local contributors will be lavished with discounted prices on pet nail trimming, pet grooming, short-term doggy day care, overnight pet boarding and up to a generous 15 days of doggy daycare. Interested in getting one of the deals? Please take a couple minutes to check out Green Pets' Lucky Ant Project Page to find our more and to contribute. Lucky Ant has also set up an iPad for contributions at Green Pets. Only 26 days remaining to help Green Pets reach their goal! Together we can do this! Green Pets Spa is located at 572 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson Place and Classon Avenue and can be reached at 718.230.8300 for further details. pic: Kenji, Twain from Green Pets' dog

New B69 Bus Shelter on Vanderbilt @ Myrtle

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 10:42:00 -0400

NYCDOT is installing a new bus shelter for the southbound B69 on Vanderbilt @ Myrtle! Shelters make traveling by public transit more pleasant for everyone. They provide seating and protection from the elements for waiting passengers. Shelters also add light to the street at night. The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership asked DOT to install a number of bus shelters, including this one. Due to the many cellar doors and other obstructions on Myrtle Avenue itself, most of our requests could not be accepted by DOT.

Connecticut Muffin is Hiring!

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 10:16:00 -0400

Connecticut Muffin at 423 Myrtle Avenue (corner of Clinton Avenue) is hiring. Interested in the available barista positions? Drop resume off at the store or email to hrcm23@gmail.com.

Farm Stand Today = Yummy Veggies For You!

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 10:15:00 -0400

Come to the corner of North Portland and Myrtle Avenues from 4-7PM and stock up on these tasty local veggies from Glebocki Farms, and check out a cooking demo with Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Oliver!

Beets
Carrots
Chives
Collard Greens
Basil
Green Cabbage
Red Potatoes
Sweet Corn
Tomatoes
Lettuce ...and more!

From the pantry:
Apple Cider
Raspberry Jam
Honey
Maple Syrup
We accept EBT/WIC/Health Bucks/cash! Participating farmers are:
Fresh Veggies from J. Glebocki Farms
Maple Syrup from Poorfarm Farm
Apple Cider & Fresh Fruit from Migliorelli Farm via Farmer's Web
Honey from Tremblay Apiaries
Jam from Beth's Farm Kitchen via Farmer's Web

Local Youth Visit Rooftop Farm at the Navy Yard

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 09:43:00 -0400

We connected one lucky group of young people participating in University Settlement's summer program at the Ingersoll Community Center with City Growers, the non-profit arm of Brooklyn Grange. Earlier this week, the young people got a guided tour of the new roof top farm right here in the Brooklyn Navy Yard! City Growers hopes to announce a fall farm tour schedule soon - we'll keep you posted!

Green Pets Spa on Myrtle Avenue Debuts Crowdfunding Campaign!

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 20:30:00 -0400

Green Pets Spa has only 17 days to make its dream a reality! Please help them to reach their goal. ********* We are really excited that Lucky Ant, the crowdfunding company that works specifically with small businesses has made its way to Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, with its first FG/CH project being a Myrtle Avenue biz! Lucky Ant has committed to working with a few Myrtle Avenue and other local merchants over the next few months. Small businesses are increasingly using crowdsourced financing as a way to fund their growth. Crowdfunding for businesses can be much easier than getting a loan, especially if the business has a proven track record, doesnt need a lot of money and has a great idea on how to improve or expand. Locals supply the funds to make the plan a reality in exchange for some VIP treatment, rewards and perks. First business up Green Pets Spa located at 464 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Classon! In exchange for helping Green Pets achieve its goal of a brand new backyard space, which will include lots of greening and benches for pets and pet owners, local contributors will be lavished with discounted prices on pet nail trimming, pet grooming, short-term doggy day care, overnight pet boarding and up to a generous 15 days of doggy daycare. Interested in getting one of the deals? Please take a couple minutes to check out Green Pets' Lucky Ant Project Page to find our more and to contribute. Lucky Ant has also set up an iPad for contributions at Green Pets. Only 26 days remaining to help Green Pets reach their goal! Together we can do this! Green Pets Spa is located at 572 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson Place and Classon Avenue and can be reached at 718.230.8300 for further details.

Eladia's Kids Is Coming!

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 20:05:00 -0400

Eladia's Kids, the childcare and preschool for kids ages 3 months to 5 years will open this Fall at 175 Vanderbilt, just south of Myrtle Avenue. With other locations in the local area, Eladia's has been in the neighborhood for more than 20 years. Check out the Eladia's Kids website and feel free to give them a call at 718.230.7560. Registration is currently open.

Visit Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chefs at Three Locations this Weekend!

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 11:32:00 -0400

It's a busy weekend for the Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chefs! You can stop by and taste their healthy, affordable recipes at the following locations:
Chef Oliver Peters - 11-1 - Making a Summer Ice cream
Location:Fort Greene Greenmarket
Dekalb and Washington Park
Chef Beryl Benbow - 1-3PM - Making a Chilled Watermelon Salad
Location:Raymond V. Ingersoll Family Day
Chef Yvonne Bodrick - 3-5PM - Making a Mixed Veggie Salad with an Orange Vinaigrette Dressing
Location:Walt Whitman Family Day
For more information or to hire a Community Chef for your event please contact Kassy Nystrom at 718-230-1689 or Kassy@myrtleavenue.org.
Chefs will be at the above events weather permitting.

Wally's Square Root Cafe Gets Nod from CBS Radio!

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 12:48:00 -0400

Wally's Square Root Cafe at 582 Myrtle Avenue gets a big nod from CBS Radio in its digital article titled, "New York City's Top 5 Breakfast Restaurants." Noted in the article are Wally's Not French Toast (2 slices of grilled brioche sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, served with two strips of bacon and sides of nutella, jam and real maple syrup) and Wally's Green Eggs & Ham (scrambled eggs with pesto and spinach served over ham on grilled challah, topped with hand grated romano and a side of homefries and mesculin greens). Wally's also serves breakfast all day long and serves Brooklyn-based gourmet coffee roaster, Kitten Coffee. Wally's Square Root Cafe is located at 582 Myrtle Avenue, at the corner of Classon. They can be reached by phone at 718.230.7077.

Dope Jams Celebrates 6 Years!

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 11:59:00 -0400

Hey, party people, Dope Jams turns six this week! Stop in and ring in this new year with them. Dope Jams 6 Year Anniversary Party will take place on Saturday, August 25th from 10pm to 6am. Music by Francis Englehardt and Paul Nickerson w/special guest DJ, Funmi Ononaiye. Donation: $5 (w/membership); $15 (w/o). Dope Jams is located at 580 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Classon. For more info, check them out at Celebrate Life or give them a call: 718.622.7977. Hope to see you there. As the invite states: dress to sweat!

Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Third Annual Health Fair

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 21:45:00 -0400

Thank you to all who came out for the Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Third Annual Health Fair Event! Shoppers were able to receive information from the NYC Department and Health and participate in a market tour to learn more about how to use their EBT cards and get the most bang for their buck. They were also able to learn more about the Greene Hill Food Coo-op and have a taste of their healthy & affordable walnut, apple and celery snack. Last but not least, Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Oliver was there giving samples of his Beets in Orange Sauce recipe, it was delic! Try it at home:
Beets in Orange Sauce
4 - 6 Servings
2 Bunches of Beets - Wash and Scrub; Remove Tops
1 Tbsp. Apple Cider Vinegar
3/4 Cup Orange Juice
3 Tbsp. Lemon Juice
2 Tsp. Grated Orange Rind
1/8 Tsp. Ground Allspice
1 ½ Tbsp. Cornstarch
1 Tbsp. Honey
2 Tbsp. Butter
Water for Boiling
Steps:
1) Place prepared beets in large saucepan / stockpot Cover completely with boiling water
2) Add the vinegar and cook for 20 Minutes or until beets are tender
3) Drain beets, SAVING 1/4 CUP OF LIQUID! Skin and dice the cooked beets BE CAREFUL and set aside
4) Combine saved liquid, orange Juice, orange rind, lemon juice and allspice in the saucepan and slowly mix in cornstarch
5) Bring to a Boil while stirring
6) Continue to cook until sauce thickens
7) Slowly stir in honey and butter and pour over beets & serve!
Missed this week? No problem! We are on the corner of North Portland and Myrtle Avenues every Wednesday, now through Nov 7th, 2012, from 4-7PM. We accept EBT/WIC/Health Bucks/cash. See you at the market!

Call for Artwork: Myrtle Windows Gallery Exhibition/This is Brooklyn

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 14:32:00 -0400

Calling local artists! Here's a unique opportunity to display your work on Myrtle Avenue!

By breaking down the walls of the traditional private art gallery, Myrtle Windows Gallery brings two-dimensional art to the public arena via storefront windows, where it is accessible to anyone simply walking down the street. The initiative helps bring together artists, businesses, and the community in a dialogue about art and the boundaries of public space.

The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership seeks existing two-dimensional works of art (paintings, prints, photographs, collage, mixed media, etc.) for temporary installation in 10 storefront windows on Myrtle Avenue between Classon and Vanderbilt beginning in October 2012 for one month (dates to be determined).
" The artworks should relate to the exhibitions theme, This is Brooklyn. What defines or represents Brooklyn for you? How would you describe Brooklyns people, sites or vibe? Its past, present or future?
" If accepted, artworks must arrive ready to hang. The Partnership will not frame or fit any pieces with hanging hardware.
" Although artworks of any size will be considered, pieces of at least 30 in one dimension (either length or width) tend to have a more impactful presence in the storefront space. Some windows can accommodate very large pieces.
" If the artist chooses to offer pieces for sale, the Partnership will receive a small commission on each sale, to be negotiated with the artist prior to the exhibition. Given that community accessibility is a key component of this initiative, the Partnership hope to exhibit works at a broad range of prices.

The installation system serves to create a uniform look that unifies the exhibit, and displays work in a way that highlights and protects the work itself. The system includes a solar shade to provide a clean backdrop for the artwork while maintaining light and view through to the interior of the shop. A cable hanging system allows the artwork to hang in the window in front of the shade. See examples above.

APPLICATION PROCESS
Please submit the following materials by September 12, 2012 to meredith@myrtleavenue.org.
" Brief artist statement and brief description of the submitted artworks, including how each interprets the theme, This is Brooklyn.
" Up to 5 artwork images with index listing title, medium, and dimensions for each artwork. Please combine photos in a zip folder or pdf.
" Current resume

Preference will be given to artists based in NYC, and especially those based in Brooklyn. The Partnership will not provide insurance to cover the art during this exhibition. However, the artist has the option to secure his/her own policy to cover potential theft or damage to the works while installed in the storefronts. Artists will be required to sign a liability waiver. For more information, visit www.myrtleavenue.org or contact meredith@myrtleavenue.org (email preferred).

Photo: Social Comfort by Anne Lafond at Anima

Join us for the Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Health Fair Tomorrow!

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 21:03:00 -0400

Tomorrow, Wednesday, August 22nd, is our third annual Farm Stand Health Fair! Come by and talk to representatives from the the NYC Department of Health, a nutritionist from Brooklyn Plaza Medical Center, learn about the Green Hill Food Cop-op and how to become a member, and receive a market tour that tells you how to use your EBT card and get the best bang for buck at farmer's markets! Everyone who participates in a tour receives a $2 Health Buck that can be spent right there at the Farm Stand! The Farm Stand is located on the corner of North Portland and Myrtle Avenues every Wednesday, now through Nov 7th, 2012, from 4-7PM. We accept EBT/WIC/Health Bucks/cash. Participating farmers are:
Fresh Veggies from J. Glebocki Farms
Maple Syrup from Poorfarm Farm
Apple Cider & Fresh Fruit from Migliorelli Farm via Farmer's Web
Honey from Tremblay Apiaries
Jam from Beth's Farm Kitchen via Farmer's Web For more information contact Kassy Nystrom at 718-230-1689 or kassy@myrtleavenue.org.

Open Mic Night at the Walt Whitman Library, Wed., 8/22!

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 15:52:00 -0400

"Are you ready to rock-rock y'all, to the beat y'all? Keep on and you don't stop rockin' on." Okay, not exactly a freestyle, but thanks to Salt N Pepa for the inspiration. Teens, Adults -- open mic night at the Brooklyn Public Library's Walt Whitman Branch is this Wednesday, August 22nd from 6:00pm to 7:30pm. Stop in! Perform or recite poetry, spoken word or freestyle it. Feel free to bring your own verse or, don't worry, the librarians at Whitman will have something on hand for you. Stop in or give the Whitman Branch a call at 718.935.0244 to sign-up in advance. The BPL's Walt Whitman Branch is located at 93 St. Edwards Street, just north of Myrtle (between Myrtle and Park).

Green Pets Spa on Myrtle Avenue Debuts Crowdsourcing Campaign

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 14:02:00 -0400

We are really excited that Lucky Ant, the crowdfunding company that works specifically with small businesses has made its way to Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, with its first FG/CH project being a Myrtle Avenue biz! Lucky Ant has committed to working with a few Myrtle Avenue and other local merchants over the next few months. Small businesses are increasingly using crowdsourced financing as a way to fund their growth. Crowdfunding for businesses can be much easier than getting a loan, especially if the business has a proven track record, doesnt need a lot of money and has a great idea on how to improve or expand. Locals supply the funds to make the plan a reality in exchange for some VIP treatment, rewards and perks. First business up Green Pets Spa located at 464 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Classon! In exchange for helping Green Pets achieve its goal of a brand new backyard space, which will include lots of greening and benches for pets and pet owners, local contributors will be lavished with discounted prices on pet nail trimming, pet grooming, short-term doggy day care, overnight pet boarding and up to a generous 15 days of doggy daycare. Interested in getting one of the deals? Please take a couple minutes to check out Green Pets' Lucky Ant Project Page to find our more and to contribute. Lucky Ant has also set up an iPad for contributions at Green Pets. Only 26 days remaining to help Green Pets reach their goal! Together we can do this! Green Pets Spa is located at 572 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson Place and Classon Avenue and can be reached at 718.230.8300 for further details.

Fort Greene Park Summer Literary Festival this Saturday, 8/18!

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 11:36:00 -0400

The 8th Annual Fort Greene Park Literary Festival is this Saturday, 8/18! Join young writers ages 7 to 18 from the New York Writer's Coalition summer workshops and acclaimed writers Jessica Hagedorn, Tayari Jones, and Earl Lovelace for an afternoon of readings in Fort Greene Park: This Saturday, August 18th at 3 PM. Free!

Myrtle Eats Fresh Participants Visit Pomonok Farmers Market

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 09:17:00 -0400

Yesterday we got on a bus and made our way to Flushing, Queens to visit the Queens Community House Pomonok Farmers Market & Garden. The market has two regional farmers and a table with the veggies from the Pomonok Community Garden. We tasted a delicious salad recipe featuring the flavor and health benefits of turnips and took a market tour to learn how and where to use EBT cards and/or participate in a cooking demonstration in order to receive $2 dollar Health Bucks to spend at participating farmer's markets! Click here to learn more about the Health Buck Program. It was a beautiful day and a pleasure to meet our neighbors in Queens who are also helping their community have access to fresh, affordable food!

Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Pop-up Market

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 16:00:00 -0400

The storms kept us from opening yesterday so we will be outside the Willoughby Senior Center tomorrow, Friday 8/17/12, from noon-2PM. The Senior Center is located at 105 North Portland Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11205 between Auburn Place and Flushing Avenue. See map here. We have LOTS of sweet corn, great for that weekend BBQ! For more information or questions contact Kassy Nystrom at 718-230-1689 or kassy@myrtleavenueorg. See you at the market!

New Historic District Markers Installed in Wallabout

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:48:00 -0400

This week, the city installed new historic district signs in the Wallabout Historic District on Vanderbilt Avenue (between Myrtle and Park Avenues). The brown and white signs, a common sight on New York streets, help identify which areas of the city have been designated as historic districts. In addition to a map of the district, the signs also include a brief history to help passerby learn about the historic significance of the surrounding neighborhood. The new historic district markers were paid for with funds raised by residents of the Wallabout Historic District and the surrounding blocks. The local fundraising was matched by a grant from the New York Landmarks Preservation Foundation. The Wallabout Historic District was created in 2011 and includes 55 historic wood-frame and masonry homes. The district has one of the highest concentrations of pre-Civil War homes in New York City.

School Supplies Drive: Drop off at Miracle's Barber Shop

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 17:01:00 -0400

The Give Gang, a new community-giving program, is directed by Michael "Zaki" Smith, one of the barbers at Miracle's Barber Shop located at 473 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. The goal of the program is just as the name implies...to give, and in this case, to those in need. The Give Gang has partnered with Zaki's workplace, Miracle's Barber Shop, in this latest effort-- a school supplies drive to benefit children at local shelters, including the Auburn Family Shelter here in Fort Greene. Interested in donating? Please drop off supplies, including notebooks, pens, pencils, loose leaf paper, and book bags between now and August 31st to Miracle's Barber Shop at 473 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. Call (347.406.2911) or email (thegivegang@gmail.com) the Give Gang with questions, to donate or to arrange a donations pickup. Let's help our kids be prepared for the new school year.

Visit Myrtle Eats Fresh Chefs at Two Locations This Saturday!

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 15:08:00 -0400

It's a busy weekend for the Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chefs! You can stop by and taste their healthy, affordable recipes at the following locations:
Chef Millie Davis - noon- 2 - Making a Nectarine $ Radish Salsa
Brooklyn Plaza Medical Center Health Fair
650 Fulton Street, NY (at Lafayette)
Chef Oliver Peters - 12:30-2:30 - Making a Tomato Basil Salad
Lafayette Gardens Family Day
Approximate address is 415 Lafayette. Family Day takes place on NYCHA Lafayette Gardens grounds.
When you visit you can also learn more about all Myrtle Eats Fresh programming and sign-up to get involved in the many community food projects going on now!
For more information or to hire a Community Chef for your event please contact Kassy Nystrom at 718-230-1689 or Kassy@myrtleavenue.org.
Chefs will be at the above events weather permitting.

Today is opening day for Burger UrWay!

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 14:29:00 -0400

Burger UrWay, the eco-friendly fast food burgers, wings and pizza eatery located at 354 Myrtle Avenue opens for biz today! Opening time today is 4pm and hours are daily, Monday thru Saturday from 10a-midnight and Sunday 10a-10p thereafter. Stop in to say hello and to check out the daily $4.99 lunch special, which includes fries and a 16 oz soda (Monday: 2 Nathan's hot dogs; Tuesday: steakburger; Wednesday: 4 piece wings; Thursday: turkey burger; Friday: Alaskan salmon burger; Saturday: steakburger topped w/turkey bacon; Sunday; 2 piece chicken tenders). Burger UrWay's mission is "to provide customers with the ultimate tasting experience by offering homemade burgers, wings and old-fashioned fries, made from the finest and freshest ingredients." The steakburgers use 100% certified angus beef (see 'meet the rancher' section on their website.). Burger UrWay is located at 354 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi.

The Owl & the Pussycat Salon's first evening event, more to come!

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 13:09:00 -0400

Husband and wife team, Stuart and Clair Fraser are settling nicely into their The Owl & the Pussycat Salon space. The salon is located at 154 Vanderbilt, just south of Myrtle Avenue. They've recently built out the backyard and basement space. They also offer free sangria on Saturdays ("Sangris Saturdays") and french pressed coffee and iced tea every other day of the week to salon customers. Events and salon teach-ins are planned on a regular basis, and yesterday was the salon's first evening event, "Summer School." Attendees were treated to swag bags filled with beauty and hair products and 4 quick presentations on topics including 'enduring bridal beauty', 'the courage to do color', 'complexion secrets' and 'hair styling'. Here are a few pictures from the event. The Owl & the Pussycat Salon is located at 154 Vanderbilt Avenue. Call them at 718.522.5697 for questions, appointments, consultations and to find out about upcoming events.

Palmer's Is Open for Biz!

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 12:50:00 -0400

Palmer's, the new cafe, bar and diner located on the groundfloor of the Avalon building at Myrtle and Flatbush Avenue Extension, opened for business nearly a week and a half ago. Things have been pretty busy as local residents and others stop by to check out the full bar, delicious menu items and indoor and outdoor seating. The new biz is open from 6:30a until 11:00p, so lots of delicious offerings for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Mesclun, julienned carrot and beet salad, Coconut curry mussles, grilled shrimp cocktail, Peking chicken quesadilla, pan roasted red snapper, Palmer's burgers, portabello reuben, grilled eggplant and the slinky dog (spiraled foot long frank)are but a few items on the very delicious-sounding menu, yummm. Palmer's address is 343 Gold Street. They can be reached by phone at 718.858.5866.

Get Fit! Health Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 08:55:00 -0400

Join Catalyst Cares and Wholesome Wave to kick-off NYC Gets Fresh! Farm-to-Table Restaurant Week for a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge led by Let's Move! Brooklyn. Following the walk there will be special guest speakers, free music and food for purchase. When: Sunday, 8/18/2012
Time: 9:30 - 3PM
Where: Brooklyn Korean War Veterans Plaza at Cadman Plaza West & Tillary Street, Brooklyn 11201 NYC Gets Fresh! Farm-to-Table Restaurant Week takes place August 19-26th. 25 restaurants participate with the shared mission to "create a more vibrant and equitable food system where all people have access to locally sourced food regardless of income". A few local restaurants participating are: Madiba , Speedy Romeo, and Ted & Honey. Eat, drink, exercise and be merry!

Another Reason Why We Love Our Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Supplier J. Glebocki Farms...

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 15:46:00 -0400

Not only does the farm provide our community with fresh, affordable veggies but farmer John Glebocki donates thousands of pounds of food to the Hudson Valley Foodbank!! This week's J. Glebocki's Farm newsletter tells us, "We made another large donation to the Hudson Valley Gleanmobile this week, almost 4,000lbs! The food collected by Stiles for the Gleanmobile provides food for the Foodbank of the Hudson Valley and serves many of the pantries in the Hudson Valley". Hats off to John, his family, and staff. Thank you for providing fresh, healthy food to all!

Visit Your Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand TODAY!!

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 15:13:00 -0400

Come to the corner of North Portland and Myrtle Avenues from 4-7PM and purchase:
From the Community Basket:
Basil, Sage, Thyme and Oregano.

Veggies from J. Glebocki Farms:
Beets
Carrots
Cauliflower
Chives
Collard Greens
Basil
Broccoli
Green Cabbage
Kale
Red Potatoes
Sweet Corn
Tomatoes
From the pantry:
Apple Cider
Raspberry Jam
Honey
Maple Syrup
We accept EBT/WIC/Health Bucks/cash. Participating farmers are:
Fresh Veggies from J. Glebocki Farms
Maple Syrup from Poorfarm Farm
Apple Cider & Fresh Fruit from Migliorelli Farm via Farmer's Web
Honey from Tremblay Apiaries
Jam from Beth's Farm Kitchen via Farmer's Web

Rooftop Films at Fort Greene Park this Thursday: Welcome to Pine Hill

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 14:41:00 -0400

This Thursday, August 9th, Rooftop Films is hosting a free showing of Welcome to Pine Hill in Fort Greene Park at Myrtle Avenue Hill (Myrtle and North Portland). Film starts at 8:30 p.m. Check out this an interview with the film's director, Keith Miller, on the The Local.

Happy National Night Out!!

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 20:25:00 -0400

We celebrated today with the 88th Precinct in Fort Greene Park along with many other community organizations, artists, and musicians. Community Chef Arnetha Singleton served up a Chicken and Veggie Salad. Try it at home: CHICKEN & VEGGIE SALAD - 4 servings

Hot Ingredients:
3 cups chopped chicken
5 carrots diced
4 small onions diced
1 box frozen peas
1 green pepper diced
1 cup of chopped celery
2 cloves of chopped garlic
2 cups water
1/4 cup olive oil
.5 tsp Adobe seasoning

Heat Olive Oil in pan, add chicken, after chic is half cooked add all veggies, water, Adobe seasoning & cook for 20 min until veggies are soft. Remove from heat, drain excess water & let cool.

Cold ingredients:
head of romaine lettuce (to serve salad in
1 large tomato diced
1 tbsp. of radish diced
1 Green pepper diced
1 cup of Italian salad dressing

After cooked veggies are cool add diced raw veggies & add dressing. Toss and serve in celery heart leaf. Be safe and enjoy the evening!

The Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand now offers a "Community Basket"!

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 19:50:00 -0400

Do you have more food in your home garden than you can use? Donate it to us and well be sure someone enjoys it!! How does it work? Bring your excess food to us and well bunch the herbs or bag the veggies and sell back to the community for $1 per item or bunch. Your donation helps to further the Myrtle Avenue Community-run Farm Stand goal of providing fresh, affordable food to our community. We greatly appreciate your donation! Contact Kassy Nystrom to make arrangements at: 718-230-1689 or kassy@myrtleavenue.org. The Farm Stand is located on the corner of North Portland and Myrtle Avenues every Wednesday, now through Nov 7th, 2012, from 4-7PM. We accept EBT/WIC/Health Bucks/cash. Here is what you can purchase this week:
From the Community Basket:
Basil, Chocolate Mint, Sage, Thyme and Oregano.

Veggies from J. Glebocki Farms:
Beets
Carrots
Cauliflower
Chives
Collard Greens
Basil
Broccoli
Green Cabbage
Kale
Sweet Corn
Red Potatoes
From the pantry:
Apple Cider
Raspberry Jam
Honey
Maple Syrup
Participating farmers are:
Fresh Veggies from J. Glebocki Farms
Maple Syrup from Poorfarm Farm
Apple Cider & Fresh Fruit from Migliorelli Farm via Farmer's Web
Honey from Tremblay Apiaries
Jam from Beth's Farm Kitchen via Farmer's Web

Move with Grace Yoga, Dance and Pilates Studio to open Juice Bar in Store

Fri, 03 Aug 2012 16:19:00 -0400

Beginning next month, Move with Grace Yoga, Dance & Pilates Studio will open up its juice and smoothie bar in the front portion of the studio! Just in time for summer...so yummm. "We are super excited to bring mindful, healthy and tasty options to the neighhborhood," shared Grace Tappin, the studio owner. Stay tuned for the fresh, cold and delicious juices and smoothies that'll be on the menu in the weeks to come. Don't forget to check out the amazing intro special at the studio. Move with Grace Studio offers a wide variety of classes, including dance, yoga (Vinyasa, Bikram, Hatha and Iyengar and a late night candlelight flow), Pilates and Zumba. Children as well as adult classes are available. Group and private lessons are available. Click here for the Move with Grace weekly schedule. Move with Grace is located at 469 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. The studio can be reached at 718.230.0013. photo credit: Move with Grace Yoga, Dance & Fitness Studio

Karens Body Beautiful Relocates, Primed for Mass Distribution

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 18:58:00 -0400

As of tomorrow, August 1st, Karen's Body Beautiful will have moved on from the Myrtle Avenue commercial corridor in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. The local powerhouse of natural homemade hair and body products had been located on Myrtle Avenue since 2004. The boutique, owned by husband and wife team Karen Tappin Saunderson and Damani Saunderson, has been on a strong upward trajectory since starting in business. In fact, this move marks the third time Karen has outgrown a business space. The first occurred when she moved into her first small retail space on Clinton Avenue just off Myrtle after years as a home-based business. A few years later, Karen moved into her Myrtle Avenue retail space just a half block away. The larger Myrtle Avenue space allowed Karen to build a larger kitchen in order to increase distribution, and obtain much more visibility by being on a busy block with more foot traffic. As my business and staff grew, it allowed more time for me to think about expansion and the direction to take the business inwe decided to concentrate on even greater distribution, getting the product placed in different stores to expand the brand, shared Karen. This hard work led to deals with several national retailers soon to be announced that are in the works for 2013. The new Sunset Park facility, though smaller than the Myrtle retail space, allows for a larger kitchen space for manufacturing in order to successfully meet the demands of mass market distribution. For this company founded on the principle of using natural ingredients, do not expect any changes in quality. Our products won't change in quality in any way. We made sure of this when creating our relationships with these national retailers. We will control our ingredients and formulations and still make our products ourselves. That's a priority to us--that our products continue to work as well as they always have for our customers, shared Karen. Karen has also served as the secretary on the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership BIDs Board of Directors, and has long been lending a voice to merchant concerns and broader avenue issues while helping to guide the direction of the organization. Karens press release about the relocation, states, with a heavy heart, we close our shop and spa. We will miss our amazing customers dropping by to chat. (This move) will allow us to share our products with women all over the U.S. in a convenient and direct way. Karens Body Beautiful will relocate to a larger loft space in Sunset Park which will be used as a manufacturing base to increase in order to increase product distribution. We are working on increasing our distribution and that means getting our products into other stores, stated Karen. For die hard Karens Body Beautiful fans, online sales will be still be available and select products will be carried by Move with Grace Yoga and Dance Studio at 469 Myrtle Avenue. Wishing Karen, Damani and the Karen's Body Beautiful team all the best in this next chapter. Visit Karen's Body Beautiful to stay up to date on store happenings.

Vote for our tree bed in MillionTreeNYC's Beautiful Tree Bed Contest

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 14:24:00 -0400

You've seen the fantastic tree guards along Myrtle Avenue. With the support of St. Joseph's College, we installed a fantastic arrangement of ornamental plants in the tree bed at 438 Myrtle. And we've entered MillionTreeNYC's Beautiful Tree Bed Contest. Please vote (via Facebook) for the entry from Daniel of Brooklyn. Vote Here via Facebook Thank you!

Le Petit Bakery gets shout out on homemade oreo goodness

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 13:58:00 -0400

Brooklyn Based describes Le Petit Bakery's oreo cookies in a recent post titled, 'Oreos get an upgrade' like this: "the dark chocolate cookies...sandwiched in between a rich creamy white chocolate ganache, making for one superbly satisfying cookie." The post goes on to describe the cookie with: "captures the crumbly texture of the real thing, while still remaining soft and moist...there's a hint of sea salt in each bite which takes it to the next level." Le Petit Bakery owners, Christopher Sanchez and Susan Tenteromano, a mother-son team, bring years of experoence to their recently opened establishment. Christopher's a trained pastry chef, having previously worked at Jean-George, Park Avenue Cafe, Per Se, Bouchon and Eleven Madison Park. Le Petit Bakery is a classic french bakery with a few American pastry additions, specializing in the sweet and the savory, pasties and breads, like fresh baguettes, demi baguettes, brioche, ciabatta and whole wheat breads, quiches; oreos, nutter butters, chocolate chunk, oatmeal raisin and linzer tarts cookies; banana nut, carrot, poppy seed muffins; scones, coffee cakes, sticky buns, eclairs; plain, almond, almond chocolate and chocolate croissants and red velvet with cream cheese frosting and chocolate blackout with chocolate mousse cupcakes. Click to check out the Brooklyn Based post. Le Petit Bakery is located at 354 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton. The bakery can be reached by phone at 718.875.6500. pic credit: Brooklyn Based

Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Grand Opening Celebration - TODAY!!

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 13:55:00 -0400

You are invited! Come celebrate the 3rd season of the Myrtle Farm Stand with us at our new location! Wednesday, July 25th
4-7pm
Corner of Myrtle and North Portland Avenues We are thrilled to be able to continue to bring fresh, affordable produce to local residents, and to provide part-time employment opportunities for local youth and seniors through this important Myrtle Eats Fresh food access initiative. In each of the past two seasons, the Farm Stand has brought about 5000 lbs. of farm-fresh produce to Fort Greene residents, accepting EBT, WIC and Health Bucks to make sure healthy food is accessible to all community members. Stop by to help us celebrate our 3rd season, meet your neighbors, taste a healthy recipe and pick up some tasty produce! Special Celebration Deal: Spend $6 or more and get $2 free! The Farm Stand accepts EBT/WIC/Health Bucks/cash. Please bring your own bag. Here is what you can purchase this week:
Apples
Beets
Carrots
Chives
Cucumber
Collard Greens
Cilantro(br) Garlic
Peaches
Romaine Lettuce
Red & White Potatoes
Red Leaf Lettuce
Scallions
Summer Squash
Sweet Corn
Spinach
Thyme
Yellow Zucchini
From the pantry:
Apple Cider
Raspberry Jam
Honey
Maple Syrup
Participating farmers are:
Fresh Veggies from J. Glebocki Farms Maple Syrup from Poorfarm Farm Apple Cider & Fresh Fruit from Migliorelli Farm via Farmer's Web Honey from Tremblay Apiaries Jam from Beth's Farm Kitchen via Farmer's Web

CLASSY Awards: Vote for The Doe Fund!

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 16:30:00 -0400

For over five years, the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn BID has contracted with The Doe Fund for all supplemental sanitation services. The hard work of The Doe Fund's street-cleaning crews is paying off in the form of clean neighborhoods, transformed lives, and now - national recognition. We are thrilled to share that The Doe Fund has been selected as a Regional Finalist for the CLASSY Awards which celebrates the greatest charitable achievements by nonprofit organizations during the past year. Voting ends July 26th and the winners will be selected on July 31st, but they can't be recognized as the best in the entire region without your help. Showing your support is easy: - Go to http://www.stayclassy.org/classy-awards/vote - Click on the East region - Vote for The Doe Fund in the Hunger and Poverty Relief category - Submit your ballot Thank you for your support

Huey's Chueys Yelp Deal!

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 14:52:00 -0400

Check it out -- $7 will get you a voucher redeemable for $15 dollars worth of delicious offerings at Huey's Chueys! That means piña colada slushies, homemade ice cream, candied and caramel-covered apples, brownies, lollipops, chocolate covered strawberries and old fashioned candies like squirrel nuts, Goobers, Sugar babies, and so much more! Click here to find out more about the Yelp deal. Huey's Chueys is located at 378 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Clermont. You can reach the store at: 347.529.5220.

Support Fort Greene SNAP's Indiegogo Campaign Today -- Help them reach their goal!

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 11:23:00 -0400

Fort Greene Strategic Action Neighborhood Partnership, or SNAP as we all call it, is on Indiegogo! SNAP, the much-loved, long-time non-profit with community programming around civic organizing, financial literacy, technology, entrepreneurship and job skills is one of sixteen collaborative teams selected by desigNYC for the 2012 "Recharging Communities Projects". The teams are composed of nonprofits serving the public good paired with civic minded design professionals who share their expertise on a pro bono basis. SNAP will work on a collaborative basis with New York City design firm, Incorporated Architecture and Design for a resdesign of their Myrtle Avenue computer lab, reception and office spaces. Incorporated has produced an amazingly transformative and incredibly affordable interior design for SNAP and they need our help to bring it to life! Check out SNAP's Indiegogo link believe to donate to make the design a reality. Click here to check out the wonderful space designs. Click here to view SNAP's video about this incredible design project. Click here to donate to help SNAP reach their $12,000 goal! Four other Brooklyn organizations were recipients in this round of desigNYC design assistance, including the FAB Alliance. COMPUTER DONATIONS Another way to contribute to this project is by donating your old computers to SNAPs computer training lab. SNAP is looking for 30 new or used computers, ideally Mac Minis (or other Mac computers in good working condition please). To inquire about donating, please email henrietta@fortgreenesnap.org or call 718.694.6957. Fort Greene SNAP is located at 324 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Park and Carlton. pic credit: Incorporated's website.

Sale at Brooklyn Stone Boutique -- convertible dress and more!

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 17:01:00 -0400

Have you checked out the convertible dress at Brooklyn Stone Boutique? This dress allows you to pay one affordable price for a dress you can wear seven different ways! Take this dress from a one-shoulder wonder to a sexy tube to a halter back to a shortened work-appropriate tie waist. Wear this covertible dress to every summer party, and absolutely noone will be the wiser. Stop by Brooklyn Stone Boutique this Thursday, July 19th and Friday, July 20th for the Thirsty Thursday and Flirty Friday sales. Sip sangria and enjoy markdowns on town of items and the clearance rack filled with clothing items on sale from for $35 or less! Free gift with purchases of $80 or more. Brooklyn Stone Boutique is located at 366 Myrtle Avenue between Clermont and Adelphi. The store can be reached at 347.763.2041.

Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Got SOAKED Out!

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 20:37:00 -0400

We apologize if you came to the Farm Stand earlier today and we were not there - we were inside ringing out our rain soaked clothes!! We try to stay open rain or shine but today's storm won! We'll be back next week, 4-7PM as planned. And, it's our Grand Opening Celebration! Rain, rain stay away!! See you at the Market!

Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Senior Discount Day is Tomorrow

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 18:01:00 -0400

Calling all Seniors!! Every third Wednesday of the month spend $3 or more and get $1 of FREE produce. Yes, our prices are that low!! $1 can get you a pound of either red & white potatoes, apples, onions, cucumbers, a bunch of thyme or cilantro! Come check us out! We will be on the corner of North Portland and Myrtle Avenues every Wednesday, now through Nov 7th, 2012, from 4-7PM. The Farm Stand accepts EBT/WIC/Health Bucks/cash. Here is what you can purchase this week:
Apples
Broccoli Raab
Beets
Carrots
Cilantro
Cucumber
Collard Greens
Dill
Thyme
Romaine Lettuce
Red, White, & Sweet Potatoes
Summer Squash
Scallions
Baby Spinach
Nappa Cabbage
Green Zucchini
From the pantry:
Apple Cider
Raspberry Jam
Honey
Maple Syrup
Participating farmers are:
Fresh Veggies from J. Glebocki Farms Maple Syrup from Poorfarm Farm Apple Cider & Fresh Fruit from Migliorelli Farm via Farmer's Web Honey from Tremblay Apiaries Jam from Beth's Farm Kitchen via Farmer's Web

Artist Kate Newby brings playful boulder sculpture to Fort Greene Park

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 17:24:00 -0400

Have you seen the new boulder seats in Fort Greene Park? Inspired by the boulder that locals call the Grey Painted Rock, artist Kate Newby has fashioned two seats out of concrete, stones from Fort Greene Park, mortar, and crystals, which now converse playfully with the existing boulder at the pathway near the hospital. The temporary installation, titled How Funny Are You Today, New York will be on site through November 25th.

Newbys installation invites park visitors to stop and rest or play, while simultaneously asking the viewer to reconsider the environments norms. This installation is sponsored by the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation and the International Studio and Curatorial Program (ISCP).

photo courtesy of the artist

Richard Wright Medallion Unveiling Tomorrow at 175 Carlton

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 10:11:00 -0400

Tomorrow, July 17th at 11:00am, the Historic Landmarks Preservation Center, in collaboration with the Fort Greene Association, will unveil a cultural medallion at 175 Carlton Avenue in honor of famed African-American author Richard Wright. Wright lived at the home in 1938, when he began to pen his most famous work, Native Son. All are welcome to come to the unveiling to remember and celebrate one of Fort Greenes most famous residents. The home is between Willoughby and Myrtle Avenues. The Historic Landmarks Preservation Center has previously installed another medallion in Fort Greene, which honors the poet Marianne Moore at 260 Cumberland St.

Maggie Brown's a great date spot!

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 15:33:00 -0400

Hey Baby, do you want to go out? Oh, yeah, whether you are on a date or not, Maggie Brown's a GREAT spot for eats, drinks and hanging out! Maggie Brown restaurant was recently featured on the Serious NY Eats blog in an article titled Date Night: Maggie Brown in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. And the verdict on taking a date to Maggie Brown's? Two thumbs up and a big, glistening smile! The article includes pictures and perfectly detailed descriptions of many of the delicious dishes on the restaurant's menu, including deviled eggs, homemade biscuits with raspberry butter, red beans and rice with andouille sausage and southern fried chicken. Read the article here. Maggie Brown is located at 455 Myrtle Avenue between Washington and Waverly and can be reached at 718.643.7001.

Grand Opening of the Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 21:23:00 -0400

Thank you to all who came out for opening day - we had a great turn out and it was so nice to see so many familiar faces from last season! Congratulations to our 3 teens for a job well done on their first day - keep up the good work guys! Please, continue to support this important and fun community project. We will be on the corner of North Portland and Myrtle Avenues every Wednesday now - Nov 7th, 2012 4-7PM. The Farm Stand accepts EBT/WIC/Health Bucks/cash. Participating farmers are:
Fresh Veggies from J. Glebocki Farms Maple Syrup from Poorfarm Farm Apple Cider & Fresh Fruit from Migliorelli Farm via Farmer's Web Honey from Tremblay Apiaries Jam from Beth's Farm Kitchen via Farmer's Web Last but not least, thank you to our community partner the Willoughby Senior Center!

Summer Meals

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 18:43:00 -0400

Summer meals (breakfast and lunch) are available free for youth ages 18 and younger now thru September 2nd (ending a week earlier at some sites). No registration, documentation, or identification is required. In fact, children don't have to live in New York City or be enrolled in public school to enjoy free breakfast or lunch. Check out the list of nearby locations below or click here for locations citywide. Walt Whitman Tenants' Association 132 Carlton Avenue 9:00 AM-10:00 AM (breakfast) 12:00 PM-01:00 PM (lunch) PS 67 51 St. Edwards Street 8:00 AM-09:15 AM (breakfast) 11:00 AM-01:15 PM (lunch) Commodore Barry Park Flushing & North Elliott Place 8:30:AM-09:30:AM (breakfast) 11:30:AM-03:00:PM (lunch) Brooklyn Community High School of Communications, Arts & Media 300 Willoughby Avenue 8:00:AM-09:00:AM (breakfast) 11:00:AM-12:00:PM (lunch) Lafayette Gardens 415 Lafayette Avenue 9:00 AM-10:00 AM (breakfast); 12:00 PM-1:00 PM (lunch) For additional information or to inquire about a location please call 311 or (212) 306-3358.

Fishbowl cocktails in at Touche Lounge

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 17:05:00 -0400

Touche Lounge, the popular dance and music venue now offers refreshing glass cocktail fishbowls on the drink menu. Touche, the 4,000sf, bi-level space with bar on each floor, hosts a wide array of artists from the entire global diaspora. If it sounds GREAT, we have it here, shared Ricci, one of the Touches owners. R&B, reggae, soca, and even bangra dance and MORE are either already here or forthcoming. Hold on to your seats!, continued Ricci. Get your weekend off to a great start every week with Touches Afterwork Thursdays, Uber Fridays, Touche Saturdays and Touche Sundays. Stop in! Touche is located at 46 Washington Avenue between Park and Flushing. Contact them at 718.643.6500.

MARP Awards Grant to the New Le Petit Bakery

Thu, 05 Jul 2012 10:07:00 -0400

Le Petit Bakery received a $7,400 grant this week from the Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project LDC (MARP) to assist with the storefront and commercial space improvements made at their new store. The money is part of a New York Main Street (NYMS) grant that MARP received from the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation in December 2011. This grant award is the first of many more to come on Myrtle Avenue with this latest round of NYMS funding. About half-a-dozen other projects are in the works on Myrtle Avenue between Washington Park and Adelphi Street. This latest round of funding is MARPs fourth NYMS grant award from New York State. Since 2004, MARP has awarded more than $425,000 in matching grants to local property owners and merchants to assist with improvements and rehabilitations of the avenues historic buildings. The grants have been matched by more than $1,500,000 in private dollars from the 25 property owners and merchants who have participated locally in the NYMS grant program.

Bergen Bagels is settled into new, larger space! Stop in for the fresh deliciousness!

Tue, 03 Jul 2012 15:07:00 -0400

Those fresh, delicious Bergen Bagels-baked bagels, breads and pastries are absolutely still on Myrtle! You can find Bergen Bagels at its new digs at 536 Myrtle Avenue between Grand and Steuben. The larger, airy space is has additional seating, wifi and is wheelchair accessible. It's located between Khim's Millenium Market and Utrecht Art Supplies store. Bergen Bagels can be reached at 718.789.9300. Stop in to pick up the same fresh and deliciousness!

"Mission: Small Business" -- Saturday, 6/30 is the last chance to vote.

Fri, 29 Jun 2012 13:43:00 -0400

Have you heard about 'Mission: Small Business,' the opportunity to support your favorite local busineses (yep, you can vote for more than one!) Chase Bank and Living Social, the online group buying program that invites people and their friends to save up to 90 percent each day at their favorite local businesses, have teamed up to create a small business grant opportunity called, 'Mission: Small Business'. Participating businesses have to gather 250 votes each from family, friends and customers for a chance to win a $250,000 grant to grow their businesses. Participating Myrtle Avenue businesses are: Brooklyn Stone Boutique, Huey's Chueys, Karen's Body Beautiful, Kiini Ibura Jewelry and Polish Bar of Brooklyn. Please take 2 minutes to sign onto Mission: Small Business in order to cast a vote for Myrtle Avenue small businesses today. The website allows you to vote for as many businesses as you would like, so please take 2 minutes to spread the Brooklyn love. Saturday, June 30th is the last day to cast a vote.

Myrtle Mini-Grant supports Hillstock and the Prom Queen Project!

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 17:14:00 -0400

We are thrilled to be able to offer small grants through our Community Builders Mini-Grant program to support local events and activities! This June, we supported Just Because's Prom Queen Project, and the annual Hillstock Music Festival. A little here about each...

Hillstock 2012
(submitted by Hillstock organizers)
The Hillstock 2012 was a runaway success! The three-day, all-ages do-it-yourself music festival was made possible by the great many artists, volunteers, and supportive area residents who contributed to this eclectic showcase of talent. This year's events brought almost 1,500 people out to venues all around Clinton Hill, shattering previous Hillstock attendance records.

The highlight of the weekend was Saturday's block party, supported by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership Community Builders Mini-Grant Program. Neighbors and newcomers alike dropped by Emerson Place to enjoy the great weather, eat up at a barbecue potluck, and listen to the mostly local lineup of live music. Hillstock organizers are grateful to everyone who took the time to participate in the weekend's festivities, and can't wait to do it again next year!

Just Because Prom Queen Project
For many young ladies prom preparation starts early, and can be overwhelmingly expensive for the girls and their families. This year, Just Because raised funds to provide 6 local teens with the full prom pampering experience! Check out their Facebook page for fabulous photos!

Think you'd like to apply for a Community Builders Mini-Grant? Download the application here!

Kiini Ibura Jewelry on NBC-TV this week -- tune in!

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 16:26:00 -0400

Kiini Ibura Jewelry at 388 Myrtle Avenue is being spotlighted by Jacque Reid, co-host of New York Live on NBC every day this week. The daily lifestyle show, which features fashion, beauty, celebrity interviews and stories about cooking, the arts and the tri-state area, airs each weekday at 3pm. Co-host, Reid has been donning original necklaces handmade by Kiini Ibura owner, Melody Burns, including the coral and fire opal necklace featured in the picture above. Two trademarks of Melody's work is that each piece of jewelry she creates, whether necklaces, earrings, bracelets or rings, is 100% handmade and features precious and semi-precious stones, including turquoise, Ghanaian glass, Austrian crystals, African amber and fresh water pearls. Melody's work has been seen previously on the likes of Whoopi Goldberg, who once donned a gorgeous Kiini Ibura necklace on an episode of The View and singers, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and Angie Stone. Melody last year was voted one of the 10 African-American Visual Artists You Need to Know by the Atlanta Post. We can also catch up with Melody locally at the International African Arts Festival this weekend at Commodore Barry Park as well as catching up with her almost every day in her boutique on Myrtle Avenue. Kiini Ibura Jewelry is located at 388 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt and Clermont. Walk in to view the collection of jewelry and other accessories. Call the shop at 718.858.5195 with questions or to order a custom piece. Tune in to New York Live tomorrow at 3pm!

DC Optics opens this Thursday, 6/28! Stop in!

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 15:50:00 -0400

So excited about DC Optics biz opening tomorrow, Thursday, 6/28! Dennis Cheng, optometrist and owner of the eponymous optical store has lots planned opening day and thereafter. Good to meet someone with so much passion and excitement for his work that he can even make a classroom of 1st graders shout, "glasses are cool!" The mission of DC Optics is to provide the highest quality eye care in a relaxed and friendly environment with an emphasis on community outreach and charity work. (DC Optics provides exams and eyewear to children in local schools.) For opening day, expect two raffles for eyeglass frames, one to be held on opening day for 141 Eyewear frames (a cool company that with every pair of eyeglasses purchased, donates one pair to a child in need (1 for 1 ["141"]). The second raffle will be held on Monday, 7/2 (stop by and take a pic of yourself trying on a frame and post and tag on your Facebook wall to enter raffle, 3 entries per person allowed) for ECO Eyewear frames. ECO is another cool company that carries 95% recycled frames, plants a tree for every frame purchased and donates 1% of each sale to charity. Also planned:

free upgrade on lenses with the purchase of a complete pair of glasses.
free vision screening (residual and 3D) on opening day thru Sunday for kids and teens up to age 18.
free gift with Facebook, Foursquare or Yelp check-in.
and expect Dr. Chengs adorable French bull dog, Ollie to be at the office from time to time!
and lots more fun!

Hope to see you at DC Optics! DC Optics is located at 390 Myrtle Avenue between Clermont and Vanderbilt Avenues. Hours are Thursday 10a-7p, Friday 10a-6p, Saturday and Sunday 11a-4p, Monday 10a-7p. Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Starting on Monday, office will be closed between 2 and 3 PM for staff meetings.

Job Opportunities: Burger Ur Way is Hiring!

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 13:07:00 -0400

Burger Ur Way is hiring! Burger Ur Way, a new eco-friendly fast food burgers, wings and pizza eatery located at 354 Myrtle Avenue is hiring! The store is expected to open later in July. Employees needed in the following positions: delivery, prep and counter/cashier. Interested applicants can call or email Greg at 347-452-0433 or email gevelkin@gmail.com. Check out the Burger Ur Way website for additional info about the new store whose mission is "to provide customers with the ultimate tasting experience by offering homemade burgers, wings and old-fashioned fries, made from the finest and freshest ingredients." The steakburgers use 100% certified angus beef (see 'meet the rancher' section on their website.). Buger Ur Way is located at 354 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi.

Karen (and Imani!) of Karen's Body Beautiful featured on Mater Mea blog!

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 14:41:00 -0400

Don't you just lovvvvve the wonderful pictures of Karen and her precious 4-year-old daughter, Imani of Karen's Body Beautiful on the Mater Mea website! Mater Mea, a new website that celebrates motherhood, features pics and stories of moms, including, in this case, a local, entrepreneurial one. Check out pics from the photo shoot on Karen's Facebook page. Karen's Body Beautiful specializes in bath and body products like lotions, soaps, scrubs, shampoos and conditiners for all skin and hair types. Spa services including pedicures, manicures, facial and wet room services (herbal wraps, body exfoliation, etc.) are also available. Karen's Body Beautiful is located at 436 Myrtle Avenue between Clinton and Waverly Avenues and can be reached at 718.797.4808. photo credit: J. Quazi King

New espadrilles in at Brooklyn Stone Boutique

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 13:25:00 -0400

'Comfortable' and 'stylish' are two of the words shoppers can't stop using to hail the high-wedge and strappy espadrilles now available at Brooklyn Stone Boutique. Available in a variety of sizes and multitude of colors like mustard, turquoise, mint green and royal blue, these espadrilles are flying off of the store shelves. Pick up your pair today! Brooklyn Stone Boutique is located at 366 Myrtle Avenue between Clermont and Adelphi. The store can be reached at 347.763.2041.

Ready, Set...GO! Only 3 days left for your chance at a Brooklyn Museum exhibit.

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 12:04:00 -0400

Brooklyn visual artists, listen up! Here's an interesting version of 'American Idol'/'America's Got Talent' just for you. And only 3 days left to enter, so hurry! GO, community-curated open studio project is the brainchild of the Brooklyn Museum and a chance for 2 or more nominated visual artists to have their work displayed as part of a Brooklyn Museum group exhibition opening at Target First Saturday on December 1, 2012. Here's the more detailed version, courtesy of the Brooklyn Museum: Artist registration begins online June 4, 2012, and ends June 29, 2012. To participate, artists must have a studio (home studios are eligible) in Brooklyn and be present during the open studio weekend, September 89, 2012. During the open studio weekend, voters will visit your studio and check in using text messaging, the GO mobile app, or the GO mobile website by entering a unique number identifying your studio. After voters have checked in to at least five studios, they will be eligible to nominate three artists from their visits for inclusion in an exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum. The ten artists with the most nominations will receive studio visits from Brooklyn Museum curators during the September 8-9th weekend. Two or more nominated artists will then be chosen by the curators to have their work displayed as part of a Brooklyn Museum group exhibition opening at Target First Saturday on December 1, 2012. Visit www.gobrooklynart.org/ for additional information.

Breads and pastries are delicious at Le Petit Bakery!

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 17:14:00 -0400

One word for the fruit tarts topped with blackberries, blueberries and raspberries and the lemon meringue tarts--yummmmmmmmmmmmmm. Stop by Le Petit Bakery for delicious tarts or any of the other fresh, delicious breads and pastries like baguettes, demi baguettes, brioche, ciabatta and whole wheat; oreos, nutter butters, chocolate chunk, oatmeal raisin and linzer tarts cookies; banana nut, carrot, poppy seed muffins; scones, coffee cakes, sticky buns, eclairs; plain, almond, almond chocolate and chocolate croissants and red velvet with cream cheese frosting and chocolate blackout with chocolate mousse cupcakes. Le Petit Bakery is located at 354 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton.

Today's the big day at Le Petit Bakery -- it's open for biz!

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 10:17:00 -0400

Le Petit Bakery opens today -- the bakery will be open from 10am to 6pm. Expect freshly baked and delicious éclairs, savory breads, tarts, scones and so much more. Le Petit Bakery is located at 354 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton. Stop in -- or give the biz a call at 718.875.6500. Learn more about the Le Petit Bakery by reading their Facebook page. If you are amongst Le Petit's first 100 Facebook 'likes,' stop in for a free t-shirt.

'LIVE WELL' Community Fair @ Ingersoll Community Center on Saturday, 6/22!

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 15:33:00 -0400

'LIVE WELL,' a free community fair for all ages will take place at Ingersoll Community Center on Saturday, 6/23 from 10am until 3pm. Face painting, live music, storytelling, bouncy house, arts and crafts, health screenings and healthy cooking demos by our very own Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Dominique Bryant, are a few of the fun, fabulous and interesting activities to look forward to! Come out and support! Call 718.522.5051 for further detail. Ingersoll Community Center is located at 177 Myrtle Avenue (Prince/Navy).

Mark's Gourmet Burgers is open for biz -- today, 6/22!

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 11:28:00 -0400

Mark's Gourmet Burgers is open for business today, 6/22! The new Myrle Avenue gourmet burger shop boasts delicious burgers made with 100% certified grass fed angus beef, ground fresh on premises. Yummmm, stop in! There is something for everyone with menu items like turkey, salmon and veggie burgers also available, and steak, fish and chicken sandwiches too. Gourmet hotdogs, chicken wings, chicken fingers and fried shrimp also available. Check out the full menu here. Mark's Gourmet Burgers is located at 441 Myrtle Avenue, corner of Waverly Avenue. Call 718.875.2525. pic of Mark Charles, owner of Mark's Gourmet Burgers along with his sister, Shani Charles.

Le Petit Bakery Hiring & Opening on Monday!

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 09:44:00 -0400

One of Myrtle's newest businesses, Le Petit Bakery at 354 Myrtle (between Adelphi and Carlton), is set to open this Monday! The business is still looking to fill a barista/counter position. Interested applicants can send a resume off to info@lepetitbakery.com or call 718-875-650 for more info. Learn more about the new bakery at their Facebook page.

Hill Stock: Music Festival This Weekend!

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 08:59:00 -0400

Hillstock is an annual Brooklyn music festival organized by Never Break Down. Over the weekend, almost 50 bands will perform at venues in Clinton Hill, including a FREE block party on Saturday, June 23! The Hill Stock Block Party takes place at 106 Emerson, between Myrtle and Classon from 11am-8pm, featuring FIFTEEN live bands! Did we say it was FREE???!!?

Check out the full schedule here for all three days, and find out more about this home-grown music fest. Organizers say their goals are to 'promote great local music, build community, and provide an affordable and fun atmosphere for people of all ages to experience new music.' Definitely worth checking out!

photo credit: The Fort Greene Clinton Hill Local flickr set

Artisan Ice Cream now in at Huey's Chueys!

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 09:59:00 -0400

Artisan ice cream and sorbets now in at Huey's Chueys! Beat the heat and please the palate with scrumptious flavors like french vanilla, killer chocolate, guava, cappucino kahlua calypso, peanut butter fudge, mango-raspberry, pistachio, coconut almond joy and strawberry. All ice cream, except cookie flavors, is gluten-free. Stop in for some old-fashioned candies and other goodies while you're there --squirrel nuts, charleston chews, coconut long boys, mary janes and cake pops, mini cheesecake bites and chocolate covered strawberries are just a few. Huey's Chueys is located at 378 Myrtle between Adelphi and Clermont -- stop in!

Make Music New York is Today, 6/21! Musical good time on Myrtle Avenue is promised!

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 09:28:00 -0400

Woke up this morning and couldn't determine whether the 'heat advisory' mentioned by the radio announcer was about the temperature or Make Music New York on Myrtle Avenue today! Ooooow, yeah -- either way, it's going to be HOT! Drop on by for a musical good time on the Avenue. Stay cool, folks!

Stay cool, people!

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 09:41:00 -0400

It's hot out there! Find your way to one of these local cooling centers to beat the heat. Don't forget to check on your neighbors, especially those who are elderly!

Willoughby Senior Center
105 N. Portland Ave.
Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wheelchair Accessible?: Yes.

Walt Whitman Library
93 St. Edwards St.
Hours: Mon., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tue., 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Wed., 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Thurs., 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Fri. 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Wheelchair Accessible?: No.

Ft. Greene Grace Agard Harewood Senior Center
966 Fulton St.
Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wheelchair Accessible?: Yes.

Raices Times Plaza Senior Center
460 Atlantic Ave.
Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wheelchair Accessible?: Yes.

2012 Fort Greene Park Summer Concert Series Kicks Off Tomorrow, 6/20!

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 15:56:00 -0400

Fort Greene Park Conservancy's annual summer concert series kicks off tomorrow! The kickoff music event, Audrarox is especially for the kiddies -- so bring them out!

Ingersoll Garden of Eden Gardeners on 'Hot Grease' Radio

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 11:56:00 -0400

Nicole Taylor, host of 'Hot Grease' radio show on Heritage Radio Network had a conversation yesterday, June 18th, with a few "southern women" of the Ingersoll Garden of Eden - Ms. Arnetha Singelton, Ms. Joan Bryant and Ms. Virgina Cunningham. Listen to their conversation about foods they grew up eating in the South, about the food they are growing in their garden, and their opinions regarding young people and their interest in farming in NYC. Hot Grease quotes Ms. Joan Bryant as saying, "it's exciting because years ago, you would have never heard of young people picking up any kind of activities like this. If you would have said anything about farming, especially farming on the rooftops and little square places in the community, they would have thought you were crazy".

Thank you to Nicole Taylor, Heritage Radio Staff and the Staff at Roberta's Pizza for a wonderful day! The pizza was delicious, your space is inspiring and the company delightful!

Myrtle Eats Fresh Chef Roisin Shares her Seasonal Bruschetta Recipe

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 12:23:00 -0400

Photo Courtesy of Greenmarket This past Saturday Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Roisin Wisneski made this gorgeous seasonal version of an old Italian favorite, Bruschetta. Adding beets and using a seasonal green she was able to get the majority of her ingredients at the Fort Greene Greenmarket located at Washington Park and Dekalb Avenue every Saturday 8AM - 5PM. Try the recipe at home! Ingredients
" 1 loaf French bread
" 3 cloves garlic, mashed and minced, or 3 teaspoons garlic paste
" 2 baseball sized tomatoes, or 1 quart cherry tomatoes
" 1 baseball sized beet, washed and peeled
" 1 bunch Swiss chard, totsoi, or spinach
" Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped olives
" Balsamic vinegar for drizzling
" Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Dice the tomatoes into small cubes (¾ inch), discarding the water and seeds as you go.
2. Dice the washed and peeled beet into small cubes (½ inch).
3. Stack the washed greens and cut into one inch squares, discarding the fibrous stalks.
4. Slice the French bread into ¾ inch slices.
5. In a medium bowl, mix diced tomatoes, diced beets, and greens. Add olives if using. Toss with olive oil, salt and pepper.
6. Drizzle or brush the bread slices with olive oil. Toast on a baking sheet in the oven, on an indoor or outdoor grill, or on a skillet on the stovetop for a minute or two until toasty.
7. Spread and rub the garlic into the toasted bread.
8. Assemble your sandwiches: spoon about a tablespoon of the vegetable mixture on each slice of bruschetta.
9. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and any herbs you like. Serve immediately. Store leftover toppings and bread separately so they do not get soggy. If you would like to invite a Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef to one of your community events contact Kassy Nystrom at 718-230-1689.

MMNY 2012 Schedule Announced!

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 09:56:00 -0400

Be sure to visit Myrtle Avenue for Make Music New York, taking place all day on Thursday, June 21st. Free music performances will be taking place all around the city, and Myrtle Avenue has performances happening at 16 different locations up and down the corridor. From jazz to rock to Latin to neo-soul to reggae to R&B to french folk to female barbershop chorus -- it's here. Come out and groove to the music and relax or eat, drink and be merry. Check out the schedule of events! Sweet music all over the neighborhood.

Soul of Brooklyn presents: A Father's Day Concert at Walt Whitman Houses

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 17:33:00 -0400

Join jazz legend Randy Weston and the African Rhythms Trio for a special Fathers Day concert and celebration, also featuring House of Waters and Jeff King Quartet. Admission is FREE! This concert is presented by MoCada as part of Soul of Brooklyn week.

Sunday, June 17th, 2012
3pm-6pm

Location: Basketball Court at Walt Whitman Houses @ Park and Carlton

Check out Myrtle Windows Gallery, get deals at participating businesses!

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 14:07:00 -0400

Have you seen all 15 artworks by SONYA Artists in 10 Myrtle storefronts between Vanderbilt and Classon yet? Myrtle Windows Gallery aims to inspire you on your daily stroll down the avenue, bringing art by local artworks right to you! Check out "Rhapsody in Movement #9" by Mary Chang at Anima Italian Bistro (picture here), pick up a Myrtle Windows Gallery Guide, and take advantage of the coupons included in the guide at these participating businesses:
Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: $19.95 Intro Special includes private lesson and uniform
Green in BKLYN: Sign up for GIB Rewards
Anima Italian Bistro: 10% of an entree (Mon-Wed, dine-in)
Thai 101: 10% of an entree (Mon-Wed, dine-in)
Miracle's Unisex Barber Shop: $2 off a haircut

Let us know what you think on our Facebook page!

Signage Up at 3 Incoming Myrtle Businesses!

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 16:57:00 -0400

Three new store signs have gone up on Myrtle Avenue this week, all three stores are busily planning for June and July openings. They are: Le Petit Bakery at 354 Myrtle between Adelphi and Carlton, Mark's Gourmet Burgers at 441 Myrtle, corner of Clinton Avenue and DC Optics, a new optical store at 390 Myrtle between Clermont and Vanderbilt. clockwise from top: Le Petit Bakery, Mark's Gourmet Burgers, dc optics.

Strollin on Myrtle with SONYA This Weekend!

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 16:13:00 -0400

The weather looks fine, why not take in some artwork and tasty brunch on Myrtle this weekend? SONYAs 13th annual Studio Stroll takes place on Saturday and Sunday from 11-6pm, rain or shine (but were betting on shine). You can download the full map here, which includes a list of Myrtle brunch favorites offering 10% off for SONYA Strollers (Anima, Putnams, Fork, Pillow, SoCo, Los Pollitos, Wallys Square Root Café and Castros). Dont miss these open studios and art exhibitions right here on Myrtle, and a number of others just north and south of the avenue. And while youre here, check out SONYA artwork in the 10 storefronts of Myrtle Windows Gallery!

Gray Edgerton and Manoela Madera,412 Myrtle Ave., #2R
Artist duo collaborating in multifaceted projects raging from illustrative mixed media, abstract painting and design.

Pillow Cafe, 505 Myrtle Ave.
New artworks by Pratt students.

Richard Deek Eisenhart, 561 Myrtle Ave., The Emerson

Hadas Gallery, 541 Myrtle Ave.
Super Jew Comics Exhibition presenting the comic artwork of Al Wiesner and Joshua H.Stulman.

Diana McClure, 581 Myrtle Ave., Wonk Gallery
Vibrant minimalism through photography and collage, exploring women, spiritual agency +the liberation of thought.

Utrecht, 536 Myrtle Ave.
All day artist demonstrations and discounts.

Cielo Bar Opens Tonight!

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 14:26:00 -0400

Cielo Bar opens tonight, 6/8/12! Cielo Bar, the new 2000sf watering hole owned by local, Gil Rivera, Jr, opens tonight! The long-awaited bar, which is located at 474 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street will be open weekends only for the next 4 weeks. Expect delicious offerings from the full kitchen + very live weeknights shortly thereafter. Enjoy excellent cocktails, ice cold beers, music and lots of fun tonight--stop in! Connect with Cielo Bar on Facebook for the latest. Cielo Bar is located at 474 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street.

Barclays Center Is Hiring

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 17:20:00 -0400

The Barclays Center is currently recruiting for box office, food service, guest services, operations and security positions. Click here to sign up to begin the registration process. NYCHA residents and residents of community boards 2, 3, 6 and 8 will be prioritized. Candidates that are screened and chosen to move forward in the process will be scheduled interviews at job fairs in July and possibly August. Register online or at a location below by June 23rd. Ingersoll Community Center 177 Myrtle Avenue M-F, 1p-3p Farragut Community Center (ATTAIN Lab) 228 York Street M-Th 3p-6p; F 10a-5p; Sa June 9 and 23rd only 1:30p-5p REES Central 787 Atlantic Avenue M-Th 2p-6p 303 Vernon ATTAIN Lab 303 Vernon Avenue Tu and Th 10a-6p Roosevelt BTOP 400 Hart Street M-F 10a-2p Saratoga BTOP 940 Hancock Street M-F 10a-2p Van Dyke BTOP 392 Blake Avenue M-F 10a-2p logo credit: logo copied from the barclayscenter.com website

Watch the History of Pratt Institute on WNET's Treasures of New York

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 16:55:00 -0400

Treasures of New York celebrates Pratt Institute, excelling in 125 years of educating art and design innovators, premiering June 13th on WLIW21 and June 14th on THIRTEEN. Capturing the colleges milestone through its legacy and contributions to the world of art and design, the film creates a visual timeline of one of Brooklyns most-prized institutions.

Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Pratt Institute is recognized worldwide as an influential institution of art and design that has impacted the lives of millions since its founding. In the past decade, the college has grown to become a pillar of Brooklyns cultural renaissance and a vital asset to its surrounding communities. Boasting an impressive roster of graduates and faculty such as Eva Hesse, Alex Katz, Ellsworth Kelly, Robert Mapplethorpe, Sylvia Plachy, Annabelle Seldorf, Peter Shelton, Robert Wilson, and Carlos Zapata, among many others, Pratt has indelibly touched many peoples lives through its legacy of artistic endeavors and commercial designs.

Treasures of New York goes inside the prestigious college to discover its vibrant Brooklyn history through the eyes of the two men who built it; industrialist Charles Pratt, who founded the school in 1887, and Dr. Thomas F. Schutte, who has been articulating Pratts vision since he became the schools President in 1993. One of the defining moments in the film shows how Schutte spearheaded the revitalization of Pratts nearby neighborhoods, particularly on Myrtle Avenue in Brooklyn.

Hosted by former Pratt student and celebrated writer Pete Hamill, Treasures of New York: Pratt Institute premieres Wednesday, June 13, 2012 at 7 p.m. (ET) on WLIW21 and Thursday, June 14, 2012 at 8:30 p.m. (ET) on THIRTEEN. After broadcast, the program will be available to national audiences at thirteen.org/treasures-of-ny. The website offers past episodes and conversations with visionaries behind New Yorks greatest institutions.

excerpted from the WLIW21 Press Release

To read more from WLIW21, visit here.
And to read more about Pratt's involvement in Myrtle Avenue's revitalization, read Channel 13's story online here.

Photo of Pratts Main Building. Courtesy of Pratt Institute Archives

The Brooklyn Hospital Center (TBHC) Annual Community Health Fair in Fort Greene Park

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 16:20:00 -0400

Join Myrtle Eats Fresh program participants at the Brooklyn Hospital Center (TBHC) Annual Community Health Fair in Fort Greene Park on Saturday, June 9, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be over 30 different information points along the path close to Washington Park along DeKalb Avenue where visitors can receive free basic health screenings, information on how to lead a healthy lifestyle and pharmacists will be on hand to do medication screenings and smoking cessation. Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Beryl Benbow will be preparing samples of an "Avocado, Cucumber & Arugula Salad" recipe. The Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Council will share information and encourage all to get involved in 10 community food projects happening now! Look for the Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project Banner and we'll see you at the fair!

Check Out Fort Greene & Clinton Hill in the 1940s!

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 14:52:00 -0400

Curious to what Fort Greene and Clinton Hill was like in the 1940s? A spectacular new website, 1940snewyork.com, offers us a glimpse. The website features an interactive map that allows you to zoom into Fort Greene and Clinton Hill , simply called Fort Greene Park at the time, to learn about rent prices and demographics. Also, the site has a few neighborhood pictures that worth checking out. The site was developed by the Center for Urban Research at the CUNY Graduate Center, in collaboration with The Gotham Center for the New York History. Photo taken from www.1940snewyork.com.

D.C. Optics Opening Soon!

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 16:06:00 -0400

A new eyewear and exam store is set to open at 390 Myrtle! The space, formerly the Myrtle Express Deli, has quickly been transformed by the new tenant, D.C. Optics, which hopes to be open by the end of the June. Dr. Dennis Cheng, O.D. is behind the new business and you can find out more about him, and get some tips on eye care, at his blog. You can also check out the DC Optics facebook page!

Myrtle Windows Gallery and SONYA Studio Stroll!

Tue, 05 Jun 2012 09:39:00 -0400

The 13th SONYA Studio Stroll takes place this weekend, June 9th and 10th, featuring 50+ locations in Fort Greene, Clinton Hill, Wallabout, and Bedford-Stuyvesant! Visit open studios and exhibitions on 12-6 pm both days (rain or shine)!

We're featuring 15 artworks by SONYA artists in the most recent Myrtle Windows Gallery exhibition, on display NOW in the storefronts of 10 Myrtle businesses between Vanderbilt and Classon through June 28th!
Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (412 Myrtle)
Connecticut Muffin (423 Myrtle)
Karrot (431 Myrtle)
Green in BKLYN (432 Myrtle)
Thai 101 (455A Myrtle)
Anima Italian Bistro (458 Myrtle)
Kum Kau (463 Myrtle)
Miracles (473A Myrtle)
Soketah (563 Myrtle)
Wally's Square Root Cafe (584 Myrtle)

Tour the exhibition with the artists, and then join them for a drink on
Thursday June 21st at 7pm. Tour begins at Connecticut Muffin and reception follows at The Emerson Bar (561 Myrtle). Pick up an exhibition guide at any of the participating businesses and find special deals and coupons!

About Myrtle Windows Gallery
By breaking down the walls of the traditional private art gallery, the Myrtle Windows Gallery brings two dimensional art to the public arena via the storefront window, where it is accessible to anyone simply walking down the street. The initiative helps bring together artists, local businesses, and the community in a dialogue about art in public spaces. To purchase artwork in this exhibit, contact us at (718) 230-1689.Myrtle Windows Gallery is sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership, with support from the Lily Auchincloss Foundation.

New Community Space on Myrtle Between Kent and Franklin Avenues

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 10:26:00 -0400

Come share your ideas for this new community space on Monday, June 4th 6PM @ Pratt Center! The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is offering a temporary space to be used by the community at the water tunnel site at the NE corner of Kent and Myrtle and they are ready to provide access! Now it's time to come together and decide how to create a user friendly open space for all to enjoy. WHEN: Monday, June 4, 2012, 6pm
WHERE: Pratt Center: Myrtle Hall 536 Myrtle Avenue - enter through Willoughby Avenue (walk through the parking lot
*ID is required to enter the building
To RSVP or for more info email - rsvp@prattarea.org The event is sponsored by Councilmember Letitia James and is brought to you by Pratt Area Community Council (PACC) and Pratt Center for Community Development. For more information on the community site visit: Myrtle Village Green

Great Feedback on Park Avenue Pedestrian Safety Presentation

Thu, 31 May 2012 18:11:00 -0400

MARP and Architecture for Humanity got great feedback from almost 40 residents who attended last night's presentation of draft proposals for improving pedestrian safety on Park Avenue at the Navy Yard houses. Thanks to all who attended and shared your thoughtful ideas! Stay tuned for a fine-tuned Pedestrian Safety Plan in June.

Plovgh Happy Hour & Community Meeting at Five Spot Soul Food

Wed, 23 May 2012 13:15:00 -0400

Five Spot Soul Food on Myrtle and Washington Avenues is hosting a Plovgh (pronounced "plow") Happy Hour & Community Meeting to announce the summer schedule, answer questions you may have and talk about how we can get more neighbors to sign-up. We hope to see you there! RSVP here. Where: Five Spot Soul Food 459 Myrtle Avenue
When: Tuesday, May 29th
Time: 6-8PM
Also, because Monday is Memorial Day Plovgh will distribute to Five Spot on SATURDAY, MAY 26th 11AM-1PM. The store is NOW open! Place your order by clicking here. Haven't heard about Plovgh yet? Read on for more info: Plovgh is "an online marketplace that coordinates the purchase and distribution of harvest from farms to individuals. It's a way for people to get their food directly from farms, right in their neighborhood". How does it work? It's easy -
1) Sign up on-line with your email address
2) Choose Five Spot as your pick up point
3) Order your products Wednesday - Saturday
4) Check out on-line by paying with pay pal or credit card
5) Pick up your products on Tuesdays 5-6:30PM at Five Spot

LuLu & Po Featured in NY Times

Wed, 23 May 2012 10:33:00 -0400

One of the newest restaurants to the district, LuLu & Po at 154 Carlton (near the corner of Myrtle Ave), was highlighted in yesterdays New York Times Dining and Wine section. The new restaurant, slated to open on Tuesday, May 29th, is the creation of Matthew Hamilton and will feature an inventive menu of European-style food. Check out the Times write-up here or take a look at the new space on the restaurants blog. Photo taken from Lulu & Pos blog at http://gustation.squarespace.com.

Join the Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Council for a Healthy Supermarket Tour

Tue, 22 May 2012 18:15:00 -0400

The Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Council will be conducting the third Healthy Supermarket Tour on Thursday, May 24th 3-4PM at Red Apple Supermarket located at 218 Myrtle Avenue (at Ashland pl). The tour is led by a Family Nurse Practitioner and Certified Diabetes Educator who informs participants about how to read nutrition labels, how to shop healthy on budget and the health benefits (and risks) of certain foods. Past participants have really enjoyed the tour! One participant said, "I never thought to pay attention to how much something costs by its unit weight. I just bought what was on sale but now I realize the sale item may not be cheaper than the item next to it with a higher unit weight". Another participant plans to buy more fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables rather than canned after learning how much additives and/or salt is in the canned variety. The Healthy Supermarket Tours are one of 29 community food projects that were identified in the Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Assessment (CFA) titled Get Fresh! Food access, food justice and collective action in Fort Greene & Clinton Hill. Survey respondents and focus group participants expressed that not being able to discern nutrition facts makes it challenging to choose healthy products. In response, the council is offering free supermarket tours! For more information or to participate in a tour please contact Kassy Nystrom at 718-230-1689 or kassy@myrtleavenue.org. Click here for the full Get Fresh! report.

The Healthy Supermarket Tours are supported, in part, through funding from the Healthy People 2020 Community Innovations grant.

Help make Park Avenue safer for Pedestrians - meeting on 5/30!

Tue, 22 May 2012 17:51:00 -0400

Using specific recommendations and input from the public gathered at workshops, MARP and AFH have developed a set of draft recommendations to improve pedestrian safety on Park Avenue in Fort Greene, Wallabout and Clinton Hill. We will present these draft proposals to the general public on Wednesday, 5/30 from 6-8pm at the Navy Yard Houses community room, 45-55 North Elliot between Park Avenue and Flushing (across from Commodore Barry Park).

MARP and AFH will use your feedback to finalize the safety proposals, which will be presented to Community Board 2, local officials and appropriate city agencies. We hope you can attend, and that you will share the attached flyer with others who would be interested in participating in this important discussion about pedestrian safety. RSVP and Questions: Dan Scorse, dan@myrtleavenue.org or 718-230-1689

Call for Temporary Outdoor Sculpture for Myrtle - deadline 5/29!

Mon, 21 May 2012 18:13:00 -0400

REMINDER: The deadline to submit your proposal to bring new or existing artwork to Myrtle Avenue is approaching - May 29 at 5pm! See below for details.
---------------
We are pleased to release an RFP for temporary outdoor sculpture for Myrtle Avenue!

We're offering a grant of up to $7000 to support the temporary installation (7 - 11 months) of existing or new artworks at various outdoor locations along Myrtle Avenue. Artists may select just one location, or a combination of locations for their proposals.

Since 2008, weve supported installations like the Tree Hugger Project, Myrtle Bird Town, and Ancient, Goatie Boy, Goat as Wolf, and we look forward to bringing additional public artworks to the avenue this summer. Full application details are included in the pdf here. Submission deadline is Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at 5pm. Please feel free to forward widely to your networks! Good luck!

Photos (clockwise from left): Myrtle Birdtown by Wongoers, Soundwaves Mural by Ellie Balk, Goat as Wolf by Ruth McKerrell, Tree Hugger Project by Wiktor Szostalo and Agnieska Gradznik.

Now Hiring Three Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Youth Managers

Mon, 21 May 2012 13:41:00 -0400

Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand season is right around the corner and we are looking for 3 youth managers to help make it another great year! Three youth, ages 15-18, will run an urban farm stand (with adult supervision), selling affordable, locally- grown fruits and vegetables. The farm stand is located on the NE corner of Myrtle and North Portland Avenues and will run every Wednesday from July 11th - October 31st. To be eligible to become a farm stand manager, youth must meet the following requirements:
" Live in the Fort Greene or Clinton Hill neighborhoods
" Friendly and good with people
" Possess basic math skills
" Proven to be responsible and on time
" Interest in food and/or food-related issues a plus
" Experience in retail a plus, but previous job experience is not necessary As a Youth Farm Stand Manager, responsibilities will be to:
" Attend a mandatory 3 hour training and a short visit to an existing farmers market on Saturday, June 16th
" Commit to participate for the entire season, from July 11th-October 31st, working about 5 hours per week
" Arrive at the farm stand on time and prepared
" Lead set up and take down of the farm stand
" Ensure that the farm stand is clean, orderly and attractive at all times, and that
" Ensure all fruits and vegetables are always stocked
" Speak clearly about the produce with customers
" Treat customers and co-workers with respect
" Have fun!
HOW TO APPLY:
For an application contact Kassy Nystrom at 718-23-1689 or kassy@myrtleavenue.org

Complete and submit the application by June 1st either by mail or in person to:
Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project
472 Myrtle Avenue, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11205

Applicants will be contacted for interviews the week of June 4th.

New Community Garden at Walt Whitman Housing Development

Mon, 21 May 2012 13:38:00 -0400

The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) Garden and Greening Program staff built and filled 8 new garden boxes at the Walt Whitman development along Myrtle Avenue between North Portland and Carlton Avenues on Friday, May 18th. Eight Whitman residents will be growing food in the new boxes and planting flowers and plants around the grounds. The gardeners that were out to watch the boxes be built on Friday were excited and ready to get planting! Ms. Isabella Lee, Whitman Tenant's Association President, encouraged neighbors that were asking how they can get involved to plant flowers and plants all over the grounds; "we're trying to beautify the community" was her message to them. As resources become available additional boxes can be built in order for more residents to grow food but, in the meantime, residents will be working together to spruce up the grounds.

New Burger Shop on Myrtle is Hiring!

Fri, 18 May 2012 11:46:00 -0400

Marks Gourmet Burgers, a new burger shop coming to Myrtle Avenue at the corner of Waverly Avenue this summer, is looking to hire a cashier. Interested applicants can send resumes to marksgourmetburgersllc@gmail.com or call 718-875-2525 to find out more. The new restaurant will be at 441 Myrtle, in the former Bechamel space.

Job Opportunity: Crepe Maker at Pushkin Creperie & Bakery

Wed, 16 May 2012 15:09:00 -0400

Pushkin Creperie & Bakery is hiring a crepemaker. If you have what it takes -- willingness to learn, love of food and cooking, good customer service/love of people, experience prepping and/or cooking in a food establishment, drop in to pick up an application (no calls, please). Pushkin is looking to bring someone on board full-time but two part-timers may be considered. A wide variety of crepes are prepared at Pushkin, savory and sweet -- many are French-, Russian- and Turkish- inspired. Pushkin Creperie & Bakery is located at 543 Myrtle Avenue between Steuben and Emerson. photo credit: Frederick V. Nielsen II

Palm Wine now offered at Owa African Market

Wed, 16 May 2012 13:39:00 -0400

Chef, author and traveler, Anthony Bourdain and superstar chef and entrepreneur, Marcus Samuelsson (swoon, swoon) have surely talked about the delicious drink, palm wine, in their books and on their television programs. Palm wine, an alcoholic beverage created from the fermented sap of various species of palm tree, is said to especially be a good accompaniment to very well seasoned dishes and pungent cheeses and sweet desserts. It's reminiscent of white wine with a more earthy finish. Palm wine is popular in Africa and South Asia and hey, now you can find it on Myrtle Avenue in Brooklyn, NY too. :-) Owa African Msrket, which is at once an African art, craft and textile store and grocery oasis, located at 434 Myrtle Avenue between Clinton and Waverly Avenues, now offers palm wine as a new product offering. Stop in to pick up a bottle for dinner tonight!

Free Walt Whitman Walking Tour this Sunday

Tue, 15 May 2012 13:40:00 -0400

This Sunday, May 20, at 1:00pm in Fort Greene Park, the Walt Whitmans Fort Greene Park and Area FREE walking tour will be hosted by the Fort Greene Park Conservancy and The Walt Whitman Project. The Walt Whitman Projects Artistic Director, Greg Trupiano will be leading the walk, which begins at the parks Visitors Center at the top of the hill. Below is Mr. Trupiano description of the approximately two -hour event: Walk around Fort Greene Park, a greensward that owes its existence in large part to Walt Whitman's editorials written for the Brooklyn Daily Eagle, and learn about this poet's intimate connection with Brooklyn's first official park. The afternoon includes discussions about the park, its role in the American Revolution and Civil War, the Wallabout Martyrs and the monument dedicated to their memory. The event continues with a walk up Myrtle Avenue to 99 Ryerson Street, the last existing building in Brooklyn that was a residence of Walt Whitman. After the walk, visitors can continue over to BLDG 92, the incredible new visitors center and museum at the Brooklyn Navy Yard (admission is free!) before stopping to grab a bite on Myrtle Avenue. RSVP for the walking tour is not required, but encouraged. Please email info@fortgreenepark.org if youd like to make a reservation. Further information can be found by calling 718-391-8824.

Support Fort Greene Food Activists at the Brooklyn Food Conference this Saturday!

Thu, 10 May 2012 10:31:00 -0400

The FREE Brooklyn Food Conference is this Saturday, May 12th, 9AM-6PM at Brooklyn Tech HS (29 Fort Greene Place). The event will bring over 5,000 people together to attend a day filled with workshops, panel discussions, food demos, family programming, art, notable food activist keynote speakers and much more! This is a family-friendly event with a youth summit and kids activities. FREE childcare is also available! Check out the schedule here and be sure to pre-register and purchase a lunch ticket in advance to avoid long lines! With over 150 workshops to choose from we wanted to help you plan your day by recommending the following local activists speaking on local issues: 9:30am-5:00pm / 7th Floor Cafeteria
Expo (For-Profit & Non-Profits)
The Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Council (FG/CH CFC) will have a table with information on how you can get involved in the 10 community food projects happening now! 11:00am-4:45pm / 8th Floor Gym
Youth Summit
The youth of the FG/CH CFC will be here sharing information about youth centric food projects to get involved in and provide high school students with an application to be a Myrtle Avenue Community-run Farm Stand Youth Manager. The Farm Stand is open July-October, every Wednesday, 4-7PM and located at Myrtle and North Portland Avenues. We hire 3 youth to set-up, perform market operations and break-down. Myrtle Eats Fresh cooking demos 11:00-11:30am / Room 6W16
Community Chef Darrell Robinson will cook up a quick and healthy pasta dish recipe.
12:00-12:30pm / 8th floor gym
Community Chef Oliver Peters will cook up a healthy, hearty rice and beans recipe for the kids!
11:00am-12:15pm / Room 6S4
"SUPERMARKET STRUGGLE: Food Access in Low-Income Communities of Color"
Organizers with Families United for Racial and Economic Equality (FUREE) will discuss how local public housing residents and allies fought for, and won, the struggle for the new Red Apple supermarket. 12:30pm-1:45pm / Room 5E14
"Starting a Community Garden on New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) Grounds"
Gardeners from the Ingersoll Garden of Eden will share their successes and challenges in starting and maintaining their community garden located on Myrtle Avenue between Navy and Prince streets. NYCHA Garden and Greening staff will share what resources are available for all NYCHA residents to start a community garden. 2:00pm-3:15pm / Room 5N6
"Low-Income Patronage at Farmers Markets: WIC Participants and Low-Income Seniors"
Myrtle Avenue Community-run Farm Stand Manager and Fort Greene resident Dominique Bryant will join representatives from the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets, Cornell University Cooperative Extensions Farmers Market Nutrition Education Program and NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation in a discussion about the issues associated with highly targeted nutrition assistance programs such as the Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) and the utilization of benefits by program participants. 6:00pm-9:00pm / 70 South Elliott Place
After Party hosted by FUREE
Tickets are available on a sliding scale ($10-$75. Tickets at $15+ get free drinks) Cash bar of beer and wine. For more info and to purchase tickets visit here. To learn more about the Brooklyn Food Conference visit here . We look forward to taking this step towards "changing the food system in Brooklyn, neighborhood by neighborhood" with you this Saturday! This event is hosted by the Brooklyn Food Coalition.

Call for Temporary Outdoor Sculpture for Myrtle Avenue!

Mon, 07 May 2012 09:56:00 -0400

We are pleased to release an RFP for temporary outdoor sculpture for Myrtle Avenue!

We're offering a grant of up to $7000 to support the temporary installation (7 - 11 months) of existing or new artworks at various outdoor locations along Myrtle Avenue. Artists may select just one location, or a combination of locations for their proposals.

Since 2008, weve supported installations like the Tree Hugger Project, Myrtle Bird Town, and Ancient, Goatie Boy, Goat as Wolf, and we look forward to bringing additional public artworks to the avenue this summer. Full application details are included in the pdf here. Submission deadline is Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at 5pm. Please feel free to forward widely to your networks! Good luck!

Photos (clockwise from left): Myrtle Birdtown by Wongoers, Soundwaves Mural by Ellie Balk, Goat as Wolf by Ruth McKerrell, Tree Hugger Project by Wiktor Szostalo and Agnieska Gradznik.

Fort Greene House Tour Select this Saturday, 5/5!

Fri, 04 May 2012 12:23:00 -0400

It's that time of year again! Check out the info below from the Fort Greene Association. Once every two years, Fort Greene homeowners open their doors, literally, to showcase their creativity, spirit, style and historic beauty of our neighborhood. This year the FGA is producing a unique and intimate guided house tour where they will feature four homes in Fort Greene, where four groups of Fort Greene House Tour Enthusiast will visit each of the four homes in a rotation, similar to a bar crawl lead by Fort Greene Association Ambassadors. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a discussion with homeowners / architects regarding the renovation process for a particular area of each home being featured: parlor floor, kitchen, garden apartment, and a restored exterior façade of a landmark home. The event will kick off with brunch at Two Steps Down, Fort Greenes oldest family owned restaurant and business and end with wine tasting at one of Fort Greenes wine stores. The event is limited to 100 people with advanced ticket sales only. The Fort Greene Associations (FGA) House Tours serve as a fundraising event that allows themto produce and support year-long initiatives that fall in line with the Fort Greene Associations mission statement: historic preservation, neighborhood and park enhancement, as well as cultural, economic and housing advancement throughout the neighborhood of Fort Greene, Brooklyn. THE OFFERINGS Brunch Buffet Guided House Tour with discussion with home owner / architects Wine Tasting Gift Bag Tickets are limited! Click here for ticket prices and further information.

Explore Wallabout with a Jane's Walk

Thu, 03 May 2012 16:49:00 -0400

This Sunday, May 6th at 11:00am, a neighborhood Janes Walk will be held along Myrtle Avenue and through the Wallabout neighborhood. The walk is open to residents or visitors to the neighborhood and will explore the history, urban fabric, and social life of Myrtle Avenue and the surrounding neighborhoods. The walk will begin at the Prison Ship Martyrs Monument in Fort Greene Park and end at 99 Ryerson St, near the corner of Myrtle Avenue. The walk is free, no registration is required, and the walk will occur rain or shine. Janes Walk is an international event with hundreds of walks held across the globe during the first weekend of May. The walks originated in Toronto and honor the legacy of urbanist and preservationist Jane Jacobs. The Municipal Art Society (MAS) has helped to organize 70 walks this year in New York City. To find out more about Janes Walk or to find other free NYC walks this weekend, visit MAS online.

Close the Loop Clothing Drive Brings in 14 Bags of Mens and Boys Clothes for Local Teens

Wed, 02 May 2012 18:26:00 -0400

The Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Community Food Council (FG/CH CFC) has successfully completed another Close The Loop project! In the months of April and March 14 bags of mens and boys clothing items were collected and donated to our local Brooklyn Teen Challenge, a rehabilitation facility for teens located in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. With the help of two teen FG/CH CFC Steering Committee members Benjamin Banneker Academy For Community Development and Brooklyn Tech High Schools were 2 drop off sites. Donations also came in from the Victorious Triumphant Word International Church in Clinton Hill and local residents. Thank you to all who participated and helped to make this Close the Loop project a great success!

Close the Loop is one of 29 community projects that were identified in the Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Assessment (CFA) titled Get Fresh! Food access, food justice and collective action in Fort Greene & Clinton Hill. The goal of the Close the Loop project is to initiate charity drives in the community and ensure that the proceeds go to people and organizations in our own community. The program will also look at how to capture excess food from local businesses and how we can use it rather than waste it. Click here for the full Get Fresh! report.

New Bacon Cupcakes at CakeJoy Bakery!

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:25:00 -0400

New bacon cupcakes are in at CakeJoy Bakery! The new cupcakes, called 'You're Bacon Me Crazy,' are bacon and maple syrup-infused cake topped with real maple syrup butter cream. They sold out within one hour of hitting the display case yesterday. Give CakeJoy a call to inquire about other delicious flavors like red velvet, blueberry and raspberry zinger, orange dreamsicle and vanilla and to find out when 'You're Bacon Me Crazy' will be offered again! CakeJoy is located at 364 Myrtle Avenue, near corner of Adelphi. Please call the bakery at 718.624.CAKE (2253) or just drop in. (pic above: from CakeJoy's Facebook page)

Touré and Nelson George in conversation at St. Joseph's College, 5/2

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:24:00 -0400

Touré and Nelson George in conversation at St. Joseph's College -- yep, it's true! Author and commentator Touré and acclaimed writer, filmmaker and producer Nelson George will speak at the spring installation of the Brooklyn Voices literary series. This event, entitled, Touré and Nelson George in Conversation, will take place on Wednesday, May 2 at 6:30 p.m. in the OConnor Mall, St. Josephs College, 239 Vanderbilt Avenue. The event is free and open to the public. In a press release for the event, Dr. Richard Greenwald, professor and academic dean at St. Joseph's College, stated, regarding the event, We are thrilled at the opportunity to have two of the nations preeminent social commentators share the same stage at St. Josephs." The free-flowing conversation between these two friends should yield countless insights on a myriad of topics ranging from race, music, culture, literature, to our home neighborhood of Fort Greene," he continued. The aim of the Brooklyn Voices series is to promote and enhance the creative vitality of our home neighborhoods of Fort Greene and Clinton Hill by providing local writers, artists, and intellectuals with a forum in which to discuss and present their works to neighbors, patrons, and students. Through lectures, forums, performances, and public discussion, Brooklyn Voices seeks to make a meaningful contribution to the thriving intellectual culture of the neighborhood and ensure that our community remains a stimulating place in which to live, learn, and do business.

NYC Bike Share is Hiring!

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:55:00 -0400

Just received info from Councilmember Tish James' office that the NYC Bike Share Program is hiring. Click here for Bike Share job postings. Head Station Technician, Office Manager and Marketing Director are a few of the available positions listed. credit: photo from http://nycitybikeshare.com/ site.

Applications now being accepted @ Navy Green Apts, 7 Clermont

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:18:00 -0400

Applications are now being accepted for apartments at 7 Clermont Avenue between Flushing and Park. This building is part of the Navy Green complex. Click here for 7 Clermont applications, income guidelines and additional information. The completed application must be postmarked no later than June 13, 2012. Applications postmarked after this date will be set aside for possible future consideration. rendering from the 7clermont.com website.

Myrtle Avenue in today's NY Daily News!

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:03:00 -0400

Myrtle Avenue is highlighted in today's NY Daily News! The featured 2-page center spread is in the 'Best Places' section of the paper and is titled, 'BID Up.' The title refers to the role of BIDs, or Business Improvement Districts, in neighborhood improvement. Four BID executive directors from around the City are included in the article. Myrtle's includes a photo of our executive director, Blaise Backer along with a brief snapshot of current and future happenings on the Avenue. The three other highlighted BIDs, DUMBO, Flatiron and Jamaica Center are in the same format. The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn BID's boundaries runs for 20 blocks, on Myrtle Avenue between Flatbush Avenue Extension and Classon Avenue.

Green in BKLYN Celebrates Earth Day + 3rd Anniversary on Sunday, 4/22!

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 12:16:00 -0400

Green in BKLYN celebrates Earth Day + 3rd Anniversary on Sunday, April 22nd. Stop by and celebrate! Okay, here's the skinny: -- 12-1:30pm: Farm to Neighborhood Community Chef Roisin Wisneski from Myrtle Eats Fresh shares recipes from stuff you can grow at home & home gardening tips. Think cucumbers, mint & more on rooftops, terraces & window boxes. -- 1:30-2:00: Clementine Vegan Bakery Clementine Bakery owners will be handing out tasty treats & talking about baking without animal products. Good food & animal free. With cinnamon buns to die for! -- 2-3:30pm: Plovgh CSA The folks at Plovgh talk about their community-supoorted agriculture proghram, farms sell their harvest directly to you. Crops you want, when you want them, from farms you know. Talk to Plovgh about signing up for a share -- 4-5:30pm: Brooklyn Beekeepers Club Brooklyn Beekeepers Club President, Michael Hegedus (aka the Naked Beeman), hosts a local honey tasting & talks about how to start your own beehive. His Three Sisters Honey comes from down the block & around the corner straight onto our shelves.

Free Seminar on Medicare at St. Joseph's College - Thursday

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:16:00 -0400

Have questions about Medicare? Head to St. Josephs College on Thursday, April 19 at noon and 4pm for a free seminar.

"My favorite things" Essay & Art Contest by Huey's Chueys

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:12:00 -0400

Local candy shop Huey's Chueys is holding a contest looking for pictures and essays representing "My favorite things" by local school-age students. The contest is open until Thursday, April 19th, and winners will be announced on May 1st. Grand prize - $20 + a Huey's Chueys candy bouquet! There are lots of prizes for 2nd - 10th place too! Stop by Hueys Chuey's at 378 Myrtle to pick up an entry form. Good luck!

Whole Wheat Bread now at Bergen Bagels!

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 13:31:00 -0400

If you're looking for fresh baked whole wheat bread, be sure to stop by Bergen Bagels. In addition to adding whole wheat loaves to their menu, Bergen is also selling slices of fresh cinnamon raisin bread. Sounds like a good way to start off a day! Bergen Bagels is located at 486 Myrtle, but will soon be moving down the block to 536 Myrtle, between Utrecht Art Supply and Khim's Millennium Market.

Dope Jams Featured in Shift Magazine

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 13:00:00 -0400

Myrtle Avenue's unique record store, Dope Jams, was recently featured in Shift, the international magazine that highlights creative culture. The piece, seen here, explains why Dope Jams is so unique in New York and that they're the place to visit if you're looking for anything from Hip-Hop, to 80's disco, to Funk. To learn about upcoming events or buy products online, check out Dope Jam's website .

Le Petit Bakery to open on Myrtle this summer!

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 17:54:00 -0400

Le Petit Bakery is the latest biz scheduled to open at the GWay-managed building located at Myrtle and Adelphi this summer. The owners are working towards an early June opening at the 354 Myrtle Avenue commercial space. Le Petit Bakery will specialize in both breads and confections. Check out their Facebook page for a list of fresh, delicious items they will create, including tarts, baguettes, eclairs, croissants, whole wheat breads and brioche. Owners, Susan Tenteromano and Christopher Sanchez, a mother-son team, are bringing years of experience to their establishment. Susan has over 20 years in the food industry. Christopher is a trained pastry chef who has worked under many award-winning chefs. Jean-George, Park Avenue Cafe, Per Se, Bouchon and Eleven Madison Park are a few fine restaurants he's worked. Christopher shared that owning and operating a business is a dream come true. He says he's had a glimpse of his future even as a pre-schooler, with his leadership skills being evident and has been baking with his family since age 2. With Noah's Bridal (recently opened) and Sakura Tokyo, Burger Ur Way and Le Petit Bakery, all due to open this spring and summer, the commercial spaces at the building are now fully rented. The property owners are planning to use NY Main Street grants to improve and restore tenants to the upper residential units in the coming months.

MARP on WBAI Radio this Saturday, 3/24. Tune in!

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 16:17:00 -0400

Kassy Nystrom, MARP's Program Manager for Food Access Initiatives was recently interviewed by WBAI Radio's Mark Dunlea. Mark Dunlea is host of a program called City Watch, which is described as a "watchdog for social, economic, political and cultural issues in NYC." Kassy discussed MARP's recently released Community Food Assessment (CFA) titled, 'Get Fresh! Food Access, Food Justice and Collective Action in Fort Greene', the top ten community food projects that the Fort Greene/ Clinton Hill Community Food Council, a coalition of concerned local residents and food activists, have charged themselves to tackle this year and ways in which neighborhood residents and others can get involved. The interview airs on City Watch this coming Saturday, 3/24 at 10am. WBAI Radio can be found at 99.5 FM or stream the program live here.

A Lovely Dayyyyyyy: Stop by Myrtle!

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 12:38:00 -0400

A high of 74 degrees today. Aaaaah, sidewalk cafes, open gardens and open store windows and doors on deck on Myrtle Avenue, stop by! Food, drink, fun, fresh air. Welcome Spring! (picture above of Putnam's Pub & Cooker at 419 Myrtle Avenue, corner of Clinton)

Pillow Cafe is Hiring: Baristas and Bussers

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 16:04:00 -0400

Pillow Cafe is hiring for baristas and bussers. F/T baristas must have experience (server experience a plus) P/T bussers (20 hours/weekly, experienced, possibility of f/t) Pillow Cafe is located at 505 Myrtle Avenue between Ryerson and Grand.

Hadas Gallery's upcoming exhibit celebrates Jewish identity thru graphics

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 14:34:00 -0400

Hadas Gallery's upcoming art exhibit celebrates Jewish identity in the graphic medium. The new exhibit opens on April 15th. Mark your calendars. Hadas Gallery is located at 541 Myrtle Avenue. Hadas Gallery is a project of the Rohr Jewish Center, please contact them for information about the upcoming or other exhibits: info@hadasgallery.com.

DEADLINE EXTENDED: Submit a design for a Myrtle Tree Guard Contest!

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400

UPDATE: New deadline for submissions to the Myrtle Tree Guard Panel Design contest is Wednesday, March 28th at 5pm!

On Myrtle Avenue, were serious about protecting our street trees. We appreciate them not only for the aesthetic appeal they bring to the commercial strip, but also for the important role they play in filtering the air and providing shady respite from the afternoon sun. We worked with the Pratt Design Incubator to design tree guards for Myrtle that are both functional and durable, but also offer a canvas that reflects local creativity. Thats where you come in!

For the second year in a row, were inviting artists and designers (both amateur and professional) to submit designs for the panels of a new Myrtle Tree Guard. Each selected design will be laser cut into the 4 panels of an individual tree guard or tree guard with bench, to be installed on Myrtle Avenue in summer 2012. We may select up to 25 individual panel designs in total this year. In 2011, we selected 19 designs for 38 tree guards and benches that were installed last August. Check out photos of these unique guards on our flickr page here.

How to submit a design to the contest:
Submit your design concepts via email to meredith@myrtleavenue.org by Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at 5pm along with a document (PDF) containing your contact information (name, address, telephone, email), brief description of your design (no more than 200 words), and small image of your design.

Design Guidelines
Please read the following closely, as we will not be able to accept submissions that do not meet these guidelines.
1. If possible, please use the Adobe Illustrator template when creating your design.
You can also submit a high resolution jpeg (please follow dimensions listed below). 2. Permissible design area is 11" vertical x 37" horizontal. Full size of artboard is 14" x 40" which includes a 1.5" border on all four sides. No design elements can be in this border area.
3. All design shapes are considered 'holes'. There can be no 'holes' that measure larger than 4 square inches, or longer than 12". No 'holes' can be smaller than 1/4".
4. Solid areas must measure at least 1/2" wide. Thin pieces cannot be longer than 10" as they are prone to warping and breaking.
5. Designs should not have unsupported solid elements (floating pieces).
6. For safety reasons, designs should avoid sharp points and corners. Corners should be rounded wherever possible. 7. Designs cannot include trademarked logos or images, and cannot contain words.
8. Each panel will be repeated four times on the tree guard. It is not possible to design four separate panels for one unit.

By submitting a design, entrants are authorizing the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership to incorporate the submitted design into street furniture for fabrication, and are allowing the Partnership to utilize the design in online and printed materials related to the project. Authors of selected designs will not be compensated, but will be credited on our website and on tree guard signage (not on benches, as they do not have signage).
Photo: Panel design by Genevieve Saucier

Community Food Assessment Release Party was a Great Success!

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 18:08:00 -0400

The Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Council extends a THANK YOU to all who came out to celebrate the release of the Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Assessment 'Get Fresh! Food Access, Food Justice and Collective Action in Fort Greene & Clinton Hill and to take a tour of the Child Development Support Corporation (CDSC) hydroponic farm on Thursday, 3/15/12!

The event was a great success thanks to your energy and support! We had a great turn out with over 50 people eager to network and move into collective action - Hunger Action Network, City Harvest, Families United for Racial and Economic Equality (FUREE), Greene Hill Food Co-op, Brooklyn Food Coalition (BFC), New York City Coalition Against Hunger (NYCCAH), Fort Greene Peace, Ingersoll Garden of Eden gardeners, St. Joseph's College, Child Development Support Corporation (CDSC) board members, Northeast Brooklyn Housing Development Corp (NEBHDCo), and many residents and entrepreneurs! We were also honored to have a representative from Council Member Tish James' office and State Committeeman Lincoln Restler.

We would also like to thank all the local businesses that donated food for us to share a delicious meal together! Thank you:
Bistro Lafayette
Choice Greene
Choice Market
Clementine Bakery
Dough
Fresh Fanatic
Heavenly Crumbs Bakery
Michael Allen at Fresh Fanatic
Nero Doro Cafe
Pioneer Supermarket on Lafayette Avenue & Grand Street

The Community Food Council is excited to move the 10 community food projects into action with those of you who have signed up to get involved! For those of you who were not able to join us its never too late for you to also move into action with us! The 10 community projects are:

INCREASE SNAP/EBT AND WIC ACCEPTANCE: Work with local food retailers to find out why they do not accept SNAP/EBT and WIC benefits, how we can encourage them to do so, or how these benefit programs might be streamlined to be more appealing to them.
TURN TO COLLECTIVE ACTION: Take collective action when stores are not responsive to the communitys needs.
BUILD A PANTRY COALITION: Building and supporting a Fort Greene-Clinton Hill Pantry Coalition would enable area pantries to share best practices, resources and information, coordinate joint programming, and strengthen the overall network for emergency food services in our community.
CLOSE THE LOOP: Some residents and advocates wonder what happens to the surplus food at farmers markets not sold by the end of the day? Likewise, are local dining destinations wasting food that could be used at soup kitchens to feed our community?
GROW IT YOURSELF: Community gardens, gardening programs and farm tours provide the community with the opportunity to connect with the growing process and raises awareness around the value of fresh foods.
PROMOTE EXISTING ALTERNATIVES: Work with local farmers markets, CSAs and co-ops to develop and promote affordable options, and assist with outreach to community residents.
USE CREATIVE MARKETING: Work with community residents and advocates to develop a healthy marketing campaign in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill to promote healthy eating and discourage unhealthy habits.
HOST HEALTHY TOURS: Residents also felt that not being able to discern nutrition facts makes it more challenging to make healthy choices. Offer free supermarket tours to inform consumers on how to read nutrition labels, be introduced to healthy products and talk to store managers about what products shoppers would like to see in their local stores.
FRESH INCENTIVES: Expand and promote Food Retail Expansion to Support Health (FRESH) incentives, which could encourage the development of more supermarkets or benefit existing store owners interested in improving their presence in our community.

Contact Kassy Nystrom at kassy@myrtleavenue.org or 718-230-1689 to get involved.

Check out pictures of the event here .

Thank you again and cheers to collective action!

Gnarly Vines Equinox Wine Dinner @ Chez Lola on 3/21

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:56:00 -0400

Don't forget to check out the Dine-In Brooklyn specials available up and down Myrtle Avenue. Here's a list of all participating Myrtle businesses: Gnarly Equinox Wine Dinner at Chez Lola is Wednesday, March 21st at 7pm. $75 per person, details below. March Wine Dinner: Lamb Three Ways at Chez Lola! Join Gnarly Vines for the next in a series of monthly vinous dinners where they team up with one of their favorite local eateries, bring over a bunch of bottles, and talk turkey... or chicken or fish or beef -- or, in this case, lamb. The good folks at Fort Greene's very own charming Chez Lola are hosting and cooking up spring-centric ode to lamb and lionine reds. Feast your eyes on the menu and accompanying vino below, and please pull up a chair for fantastic food and beautiful bottles picked with Gnarly Vine know-how. AMUSE BOUCHE Tarte Flambé thin-crusted Alsatian 'pizza' topped with onion, spicy lamb meat & manchego NV Domaine du Moulin - Bulle - Sparkling Rosé - Loire Valley, France - $24 LAMB ONE WAY Lamb Prosciutto and Melon with Baby Arugula Salad, Olive Oil and Aged Balsamic 2010 Familia Mayol 'Lujan de Cuyo' Malbec - Mendoza Argentina - $18 2010 Torbreck Woodcutters Shiraz Barossa Valley, Australia - $24 2007 Domaine de Montvac Vincila - Vacqueyras, Rhone Valley, France - $28 LAMB TWO, ELECTRIC BAA-BAA-LOO Lamb Shank Ravioli with Ricotta Cheese and Fresh Basil 2007 Byron Kosuge Hudson Vineyard Syrah - Carneros, CA - $35 2006 Neyen Limited Edition Syrah - Colchagua Valley, Chile - $32 2007 Le Macchiole Bolgheri Rosso - Tuscany, Italy - $32 LAMB III: THE FINAL FRONTIER Lamb Top Round with Roasted Potatoes, French Beans, Oil-Cured Olives & Green Peppercorn Sauce 1995 JL Chave Hermitage Rhone Valley, France - $600 (in Magnum) 1998 Chateau Gracia, St Emilion - Bordeaux, France - $95 2005 Surh Luchtel 'Stagecoach Vineyard' Cabernet Sauvignon - Napa Valley, CA - $65 2008 Patrick Jasmin Cote Rotie Rhone Valley, France - $64 DESSERT Red Velvet with Raspberry Coulis Pierre Ferrand Ambre 1er Cru Grande Champagne Cognac - $48 Coffee Chez Lola is located at 387 Myrtle Avenue (between Clermont and Vanderbilt) $75 per person (plus tax & gratuity) Limited Space! RSVP directly to Chez Lola at 718-858-1484 15% off wines even if you can't make the dinner - just call to place your order!

Dine-In Brooklyn Kicks Off TODAY: Bon Appétit !

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 13:38:00 -0400

As Boro Prez Marty Markowitz likes to say at this time of the year, "Foodies, the wait it over." You guessed it...Brooklyn's Restaurant Week: Dine-In Brooklyn kicks off TODAY! Dine-In Brooklyn is a 10-day affair, March 19 thru March 29. Please note whether restaurants are participating in lunch (L) or dinner (D). The price for lunch is $20.12 (a tribute to our current year). The price for dinner is $25.00. Beverages, tax, and tip not included in prices. A number of participating Myrtle Avenue area restaurants include: ANIMA ITALIAN BISTRO 458 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly & Washington Avenues) (718) 422-1122 www.animabistro.com CASTROS 511 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson & Grand) (718) 398-1459 CHEZ LOLA 387 Myrtle Avenue (Clermont & Vanderbilt) (718) 858-1484 www.bistrolola.com DEE & RICKYS HOME COOKING 503 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson & Grand) (718) 789-1111 www.deeandrickyshomecooking.com FIVE SPOT SUPPER CLUB 459 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly & Washington Avenues) (718) 852-0202 www.fivespotsoulfood.com KINARAS INDIAN FOOD 368 Myrtle Avenue (Adelphi & Clermont) (718) 237-4008 LOS POLLITOS III 499 Myrtle Avenue (Hall & Ryerson) (718) 636-6125 www.lospollitos3.com LUZ 177 Vanderbilt Avenue (Myrtle & Willoughby) (718) 246-4000 www.luzrestaurant.com MAGGIE BROWN 455 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly & Washington) (718) 643-7001 www.maggiebrownrestaurant.com MANEE THAI 372 Myrtle Avenue (Adelphi & Clermont) (718) 222-9992 MOJITO CUBAN CUISINE 82 Washington Avenue (Park & Flushing) (718) 797-3100 www.mojitocubancuisine.net MYRTLE THAI 438 Myrtle Avenue (Clinton & Waverly) (718) 422-1142 PUTNAM'S PUB & COOKER 419 Myrtle Avenue (Vanderbilt & Clinton) (347) 799-2382 www.putnamspub.com SANS SOUCI 330 Myrtle Avenue (Washington Park & Carlton) (917) 227-8135 www.sanssouciny.com SOCO 509 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson & Grand) (718) 783-1936 www.socobk.com THAI 101 455A Myrtle Avenue (Waverly & Washington Avenues) (718) 855-4615 THAI 101 BISTRO 448 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly & Washington Avenues) (718) 855-8518 WAZA SUSHI & RAMEN 485 Myrtle Avenue (Hall & Ryerson) (718) 399-9292 / 3839 YAMASHIRO 466 Myrtle Avenue (Washington Avenue & Hall) (718) 230-3313 ZAYTOONS 472 Myrtle Avenue (Washington Avenue & Hall) (718) 623-5522 www.zaytoonsrestaurant.com

St. Patrick's Day Celebration at Putnam's is this Saturday, 3/17

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 11:31:00 -0400

Get your St. Paddy's Day on at Putnam's Pub & Cooker this Saturday, 3/17. Brunch 'til 4pm. $4 Guinness and $1.50 oysters from 4p-7p! DJ Max Power from 10p-4a and food served until midnight! Putnam's Pub & Cooker is located at 419 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt & Clinton. They can be reached at (347) 799-2382 www.putnamspub.com

Restaurant Week @ Chez Lola, 3/19 thru 3/29

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 16:23:00 -0400

Chez Lola's delicious Dine-In Brooklyn menu: March 19th thru March 29th (Please note that Chez Lola's regular menu will be available as well) APPETIZERS Chef Octavio's soup of the day OR diver scallops lime garpaccio (red rocotto hot pepper sauce and steamed sweet potato) OR mint and strawberry arugula salad (with bularian feta cheese, sea salt, pumpkin seeds, red onion and aged balsamic) OR BBQ baby back ribs and fresh cole slaw MAIN COURSE Baked Vegetable Lasagna (aromatic tomato sauce and parmesan regiano) OR leeks and apples stuffed trout filet with spring scallions relish, beluga lentil and chorizo OR medallion of roasted lamb top round (mushroom and goat cheese quinoa risotto and lamb jus) OR free range chicken breast and white burgundy sauce (horse radish mashed potatoes and sauteed greens) DESSERTS Red velvet cake and strawberry coulis OR Chez Lola's famous key lime pie Chez Lola is located at 387 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt nd Clermont. Please call the restaurant at 718.858.1484.

2012 Power Up Biz Plan Competition

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 14:48:00 -0400

The 9th annual Power Up Contest is gearing up. Have a business idea? Attend classes, write your business plan, and have a chance to win up to $15,000+ to open your own Brooklyn-based business. To apply, you must attend a 2012 PowerUP! orientation session. Click here for the details. or register by phone: 718.623.7000 (select option 4).

Community Food Assessment Release Party 3/15/12

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 20:34:00 -0400

The Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Council invite residents to celebrate the release of the Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Assessment! The party is an opportunity for community members to learn more about our local Community Food Assessment (CFA) titled: 'Get Fresh! Food Access, Food Justice and Collective Action in Fort Greene & Clinton Hill and find out how to get involved in a community-driven project to improve access to healthy, affordable food! Members of the Community Food Council (CFC) Steering Committee will be there to tell you about the projects, give you an opportunity to ask questions, and sign-up to take action!

When: March 15th, 2012
Time: 5:30PM-7:30PM
Where:Child Development Support Corporation (CDSSC) 352 Classon Avenue Brooklyn, 11238.

Among several findings, the report concludes that access to quality, affordable fresh food is limited; SNAP/EBT acceptance by higher-quality retailers is low; and residents are ready and eager to learn more about ways of improving their own nutrition. Members of the Fort Greene-Clinton Hill CFC utilized the results to identify gaps in available services, and to generate 29 recommendations for new projects, policies and advocacy efforts to bridge those gaps, all of which are listed in the full CFA report, which can be downloaded from MARPs website here. The CFC Steering Committee has chosen 10 projects to support in the next year. Join us to find out more!

The event will also feature the Child Development Support Corporation hydroponic farm! Come take a tour and enjoy some salad made fresh from the farm. Appetizers and Michael Allen desserts courtesy of Fresh Fanatic will also be available.

Want to start taking action immediately? Great! Join the Close the Loop program by gathering your gently worn mens clothing and donating them at the party. All donations will go to Teen Challenge Rehabilitation Facility for Teens . This program ensures donations coming from our community stay in our community!

For more information and to RSVP please contact Kassy Nystrom at kassy@myrtleavenue.org or 718-230-1689.

FGA Retail Survey -- have you taken it yet?

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 17:55:00 -0400

Hey, have you take the Fort Greene Association's retail survey yet? If not, what are you waiting for? Share your thoughts on what retail and service businesses you'd like to see in the local neighborhood. Complete the survey by March 16th to be entered in a reffle to win a few goodies. Click to take the survey!

Huey's Chueys Grand Opening, 3/15

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 16:14:00 -0400

Huey's Chueys grand opening is Thursday, March 15th from 4p to 8p. The new candy boutique plans candy galore (jaw breakers, gum balls, Mary Janes, Tootsie Rolls and a WHOLE lot more), snow cones, music, and a clown for the kids on the big day! Come out! Huey's Chueys is located at 378 Myrtle Avenue between Clermont and Adelphi. Please call them 718.422.0417. Store hours are Tuesday thru Friday, 12pm-8pm, Sat- 11am-7pm and Sun-12pm-6pm.

Farm to Neighborhood Hits Myrtle Avenue & Beyond!

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:52:00 -0400

Myrtle Eats Fresh is excited to announce that the Farm to Neighborhood program has gone live! Sixteen local stores and restaurants that carry regional products are now displaying the above logo, making it easy for customers to know to look for local food and beverage products within these locations. The Farm to Neighborhood program aims to 1) connect local food businesses to local farmers interested in selling wholesale to merchants and chefs and 2) highlight the inventory of local food products that are currently being sold at local stores and restaurants along Myrtle Avenue.

Many ask, Why should I buy local? Good question! We believe that buying local ensures that produce is more fresh because it has traveled fewer miles, less travel contributes to a cleaner environment and supporting local farmers strengthens the regional economy.

Look for the Farm to Neighborhood logo and/or postcard at the following locations:
Pushkin
Associated Supermarket
Carthage 521
Pillow Café
Green in BKLYN
Red Lantern
Cake Joy
Gnarly Vines
Emerson
Putnams
Karrot
Greene-ville Garden
Fresh Fanatic
Cornerstone
iCi

We thank participating locations and encourage others to join on! We are happy to help market your store and products as well as connect you to regional farmers and producers. Contact Kassy Nystrom, Program Manager at kassy@myrtleavenue.org or 718-230-1689.

Soco on Sector B Television Program!

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 12:18:00 -0400

Soco, the southern-fused restaurant with delicious food and drink items on menu was featured on Sector B television program recently. Check out the video here. Soco is located at 509 Myrtle Avenue. They can be reached at 718.783.1936.

WONK in New York Magazine!

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 16:46:00 -0400

WONK is spotlighted in New York Magazine's March 12th 'Best Of' edition! Check it out here. The mag cites WONK owners as those who "geek out with functional wooden cabinetry in a slew of configurations." Yay, WONK - congrats! This early March edition of New York Magazine is as described by NY Mag, "our obsessively vetted annual guide to the very best of everything this city has to offer, where to find New Yorks most outstanding food, home help, shops and boutiques, bars and entertainment, childs play, and beauty and health meccas." Pick up at a local newsstand. Better yet, get thee to WONK! WONK is located at 581 Myrtle, near Classon Avenue corner. They can be reached at 718.218.7750.

Dine-In Brooklyn on Myrtle Avenue: It's Coming!

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 12:45:00 -0400

We can always hear Boro Prez Marty Markowitz's voice exclaiming during this time of the year: "Foodies, the wait is over!" It's been announced: Brooklyn's Restaurant Week, 'Dine In Brooklyn 2012' will be held March 19 to 29. An official list of all participating restaurants and fixed dinner and lunch prices have yet to be announced, but hey, nothing wrong with a little pre-planning. Here is a list of participating Myrtle eateries to postively tease the ol' palate. Stay tuned for whether they'll offer brunch, lunch or dinner specials. Which will you visit during Dine In Brooklyn? BARS & PUBS PUTNAM'S PUB & COOKER 419 Myrtle Avenue (Vanderbilt & Clinton) (347) 799-2382 www.putnamspub.com CARIBBEAN MOJITO CUBAN CUISINE 82 Washington Avenue (Park & Flushing) (718) 797-3100 www.mojitocubancuisine.net SANS SOUCI 330 Myrtle Avenue (Washington Park & Carlton) (917) 227-8135 www.sanssouciny.com FRENCH & ITALIAN FOOD ANIMA ITALIAN BISTRO 458 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly & Washington Avenues) (718) 422-1122 www.animabistro.com CHEZ LOLA 387 Myrtle Avenue (Clermont & Vanderbilt) (718) 858-1484 www.bistrolola.com INDIAN FOOD KINARAS INDIAN FOOD 368 Myrtle Avenue (Adelphi & Clermont) (718) 237-4008 JAPANESE FOOD/ SUSHI WAZA SUSHI & RAMEN 485 Myrtle Avenue (Hall & Ryerson) (718) 399-9292 / 3839 YAMASHIRO 466 Myrtle Avenue (Washington Avenue & Hall) (718) 230-3313 LATIN FOOD LUZ 177 Vanderbilt Avenue (Myrtle & Willoughby) (718) 246-4000 www.luzrestaurant.com MEXICAN FOOD CASTROS 511 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson & Grand) (718) 398-1459 LOS POLLITOS III 499 Myrtle Avenue (Hall & Ryerson) (718) 636-6125 www.lospollitos3.com MIDDLE EASTERN FOOD ZAYTOONS 472 Myrtle Avenue (Washington Avenue & Hall) (718) 623-5522 www.zaytoonsrestaurant.com SOUL FOOD /SOUTHERN FOOD DEE & RICKYS HOME COOKING 503 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson & Grand) (718) 789-1111 www.deeandrickyshomecooking.com FIVE SPOT SUPPER CLUB 459 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly & Washington Avenues) (718) 852-0202 www.fivespotsoulfood.com SOCO 509 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson & Grand) (718) 783-1936 www.socobk.com THAI FOOD MANEE THAI 372 Myrtle Avenue (Adelphi & Clermont) (718) 222-9992 MYRTLE THAI 438 Myrtle Avenue (Clinton & Waverly) (718) 422-1142 THAI 101 455A Myrtle Avenue (Waverly & Washington Avenues) (718) 855-4615 THAI 101 BISTRO 448 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly & Washington Avenues) (718) 855-8518

Children's Story Time at CakeJoy Bakery: Every Saturday at 2pm

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 12:32:00 -0400

Kids' story time every Saturday from 2pm-3pm at CakeJoy Bakery. Bring the kids down for readings of popular children's stories. Only $4 per child. Milk and cookies will be served. Please RSVP: info@cakejoyny.com. CakeJoy is located at 364 Myrtle Avenue, near corner of Adelphi. Please call the bakery at 718.624.CAKE (2253) with questions--or just stop in!

Greene Hill School students explore Myrtle, the neighborhood!

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 17:44:00 -0400

James Choi, teacher at the Greene Hill School at 39 Adelphi Street between Park and Flushing shared the 2 pages above with us. This past Fall, 7 year olds, through a class project, were charged with conducting a neighborhood study. Students participated in mapmaking, neighborhood walks and focused trips to various local places, including businesses, schools, parks, and residences. The pics above are based on a visit to Myrtle Avenue. As per teacher, Mr. Choi, "As part of the study, students surveyed businesses along Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Vanderbilt and made inferences and connections about the needs and wants of people of our local Fort Greene based on the data gathered." The Greene Hill School is located at 39 Adelphi Street. pics (l-r): raw data, graphed data

Bergen Bagels is hiring !

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 16:17:00 -0400

Bergen Bagels on Myrtle is hiring! Call Roy at 718.789.9300 between 8am-3pm for interview. Full-time and part-time positions available.

Clinton Hill Simply Art & Framing Gallery: article + custom framing sale

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:30:00 -0400

LB Brown, owner of Clinton Hill Simply Art & Framing Gallery celebrated 20 successful years in business last October. Click to check out the recent Downtown Brooklyn Downtown Star article about Clinton Hill Simply Art & Framing Gallery's 20 years: Also, check out LB Brown's latest blog post. In it she lovingly remembers a chance meeting many years ago with a young Whitney Houston. Check it out here. Clinton Hill Art & Framing Gallery is located at 583 Myrtle Avenue, just east of Classon. Call 718.857.0074 for additional details.

Carol Thomas of Just Because Salon profiled in FGA and NYT Local Black History Month Tribute

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:32:00 -0400

We love that the Fort Greene Association (FGA) and the New York Times Local Blog partnered up to highlight local powerhouses for Black History Month. Carol Thomas of Just Because Hair Therapy Salon located at 141 Carlton, just north of Myrtle, was one of the Black History Month honorees. Click here to check out her profile in the Local. For an archived list of other honorees, including many friends of Myrtle Avenue and of course our local community, such as Whitman tenant association president Isabella Lee and musician Bill Lee (no relation). Just Because Hair Therapy Salon was recently voted one of Uptown Magazine's top beauty shops for not only their skill in grooming and styling, but their "therapy approach" that makes the health of the hair an integral part of the experience. Additionally, the salon has devoted at least half of its years of service to the Prom Queen Project, a project created by Just Because to assist local youth w/workshops, pampering and prom clothing. Just Because Salon is located at 141 Carlton Avenue, just north of Myrtle Avenue. Please call the salon at 718.722.7810 to set up an appointment or to RSVP for their 5 year anniversary event.

Unlimited YOGA classes for 30 days only $40 at Move w/Grace Yoga and Dance Studio!

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 11:57:00 -0400
2012 check in! How are you doing? If you resolved to workout more, pick up a new hobby or rev up your yoga practice -- you know we're going to look out for you, right? Check out this special deal at Move with Grace Yoga and Dance Studio. Unlimited classes for 30 days is only $40! Don't miss this deal! Call Move with Grace Yoga Studio at 469 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. Call the studio at 718.230.0013 for additional information.

Employment & Entrepreneurial Opportunities around Fort Greene

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 15:09:00 -0400
Join the Fort Greene Association on Monday, February 27th at 7pm for a Employment and Entrepreneurial Opportunities neighborhood mixer at Bishop Loughlin High School. Hear from local community-based organitions about programs and projects you'd like to hear more about or participate in. Fort Greene Strategic Neighborhood Action Partnership (SNAP), Pratt Area Community Council (PACC), Fulton Area Business Alliance (FAB) and the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership, amongst others will be present. Arrive at 7pm. Neighbhood mixer is sponsored by Soco restaurant. Bishop Loughlin High School Auditorium is locted on Greene Avenue between Clermont and Vanderbilt Avenues.

Then & Now: Ingersoll Houses Turns 68 Today

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 11:40:00 -0400
68 years ago today, the Ingersoll Houses opened its doors in Fort Greene. The historic photo above, taken only 8 months after the opening in 1944, shows the new housing across the street from small commercial shops and the Myrtle Ave El. Today, lush trees have replaced the small saplings in front of Ingersoll and across the street sits the Andrea building, which houses the new Red Apple supermarket and CVS.

Bike Share Workshops: Thursday 6pm and 7pm

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:57:00 -0400
Please join Brooklyn Community Board 2, and local residents and business owners at a roundtable planning workshop to help decide how bike share should work and where stations should go in Downtown Brooklyn, DUMBO, Boerum Hill, Fort Greene, Brooklyn Heights and Clinton Hill. In partnership with Community Board 2, NYC Council Members Letitia James and Stephen Levin, and NYS Senator Velmanette Montgomery. Thursday, February 23, 2012 Sessions will begin at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. St. Francis College - Callahan Center 180 Remsen St. (bet. Court & Clinton Sts.) Brooklyn More Info: New York City Bike Share Timeline

Yoga Class @ CakeJoy's Crimson Lounge on Saturday, 2/25

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 10:57:00 -0400
Join in on the fun and fitness @ CakeJoy Bakery on Saturday, 2/25 from 12p-1:30p. Dahn yoga instructor, Jessica Wu will be guiding participants through one and a half hours of yoga postures. For those interested in learning about this practice or those interested in deepening their practice, this one's for you. Bring a water bottle and loose comfortable clothing, CakeJoy will provide the yoga mats. Big bonus: tea and scones to end the session. Yummmmm.... CakeJoy is located at 364 Myrtle Avenue. Call them at 718.624.2253 for details.

Mardi Gras Extravaganza @ Soco on 2/21

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 18:20:00 -0400
Have you made reservations for the mardi gras festivities at Soco yet? Join Soco on Febuary 21st for a Mardi Gras Extravaganza! Celebrate Mardi Gras at Soco with live band, N'Awlins, delicious food and drink specials, fun, colorful Mardi Gras beads and masks. Soco's doing it up and bringing the Big Easy to Brooklyn. Doors open at 5pm. Make reservations today. Soco is located at 509 Myrtle Avenue. Please call 718.783.1936 for details or to make your reservations.

February Big Blowout Sale at Kiini Ibura Jewelry

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 18:15:00 -0400
Great news! Kiini Ibura Jewelry is having a sale on all store merchandise. As a huge added bonus, when you spend $55 or more on all store merchandise you will receive 15% off your next purchase. That means you can save on jewelry, hats, scarves, gloves and more. Kiini Ibura Jewelry is definitely a go-to store for beautiful and unique gift items. Owner, Melody Burns is noted for her jewelry making skillscreating pieces that are 100% handmade and which feature precious and semi-precious stones, including turquoise, Ghanaian glass, Austrian crystals, African amber and fresh water pearls. Melody's work has been seen on the likes of Whoopi Goldberg, who donned a gorgeous Kiini Ibura necklace on an episode of The View and singers, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and Angie Stone. Check out Kiini Ibura's website for a sneak peek of these beautiful and one-of-a-kind items! Kiini Ibura Jewelry is located at 388 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt and Clermont Avenues. Please call for details: 718.858.5195.

Utrecht Art Supply Store Grand Opening/Madness Event is TODAY, 2/17 !

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:59:00 -0400
Utrecht Art Supply Store at 536 Myrtle Avenue is holding its grand opening celebration all day today, February 17th! Free refreshments, deep discounts, art supply try-out station, free samples, goody bags and many of their manufacturers will have tables offering product demos and tech advice. Utrecht's new Myrtle Avenue store is Utrechts 41st store. Utrrecht currently has two stores in Manhattan and has been manufacturing paint in their Brooklyn factory for over 60 years, so this store represents a "return to their roots" in some way, stated Chris McGee, the store's manager. At 6,500 square feet, the Myrtle Avenue store is Utrechts largest store. Utrecht offers free delivery for sales over $100. For further information, please call Utrecht at 718.789.0308.

Coming Soon: new businesses opening soon, one next week

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:04:00 -0400
At least six new businesses are on the way. Most are planning a Spring opening, but one, '21 Tara,' a shop which specializes in Tibetan, Nepalese, Indian and yoga and meditative objects, plans to open next week. Cielo's opening will follow as early March opening is planned. Here's the list: 21 Tara at 150 Clinton Avenue between Myrtle and Park. Owner, Tashi Namgyal has many years experience vending in Noho. Decided on a permanent space and loves Clinton Hill and Fort Greene. Lulu & Po at 154 Carlton Avenue between Myrtle and Willoughby. Matthew Hamilton, the former Belcourt chef, names this venture after his wife and daughter. Delicious American cuisine is planned. Check out the construction blog. Burger Ur Way at 358 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton. This fast food burger and wings eatery uses farm-secured Angus beef. Sakura Tokyo at 356 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton. Owners of Sakura Tokyo are no strangers to doing business in Brooklyn. One of their restaurants of the same name is located on Nostrand between Dean and Atlantic. The Owl and the Pussycat at 154 Vanderbilt Avenue between Myrtle and Willoughby. The new salon will be the first biz venture for British-born Stuart Fraser and his wife, who has years of business experience working at a top beauty house. Cielo at 474 Myrtle Avenue between Washington and Hall Street. The nearly 2000sf bar with shades of light gray and patches of lovely tilework will feature a concise menu of delicious Latin American plates, excellent cocktails and great ice cold beer.

Olympian and Jiu-Jitsu Champ, Teimoc Johnston-Ono to speak at BBJJ

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:27:00 -0400
World masters jiu-jitsu champion, world masters judo champion and Olympian (US Olympic Judo Team member), Teimoc Johnston-Ono to speak at Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BBJJ) on Friday, February 17th at 7pm. Johnston-Ono will be the third US Olympian and martial arts champ to visit the school in the last few months. Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is located at 412 Myrtle Avenue between Clinton and Vanderbilt. They can be reached at 718.403.0067.

Pre-Valentine's Day Event at the Toren Condos + along Myrtle Avenue

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:15:00 -0400
Myrtle Avenue merchants hosted a pre-Valentine's Day event at the Toren Condos at 150 Myrtle Avenue and along Myrtle Avenue on Saturday, February 11th. The V-Day event, called 'I Love Myrtle Avenue' was done in partnership with Rabiah Duncan of Corcoran Real Estate. The event was designed to give existing residents of the Toren as well as some prospectives the opportunity to taste and experience Myrtle. Avenue merchants had specials available in-stores and both Soco and CakeJoy Bakery had food and desserts available on-site. Participating merchants included: Karen's Body Beautiful, Gnarly Vines, Sans Souci Restaurant, Chez Lola, Brooklyn Stone Boutique, Green in BKLYN, Five Spot Soul Food, Pillow Cafe-Lounge and Zaytoons. The following are a few photos from the event: click here for photos To take a tour of any of the few remaining units in The Toren, LEED-certified luxury condo at 150 Myrtle Avenue and its awesome amenities, give Alex Capoccia at Corcoran a call: 718.210.4011.

FREE Dental Screenings for Children at Cumberland Diagnostic & Treatment Center

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:15:00 -0400
In Celebration of National Childrens Dental Health Month Cumberland Diagnostic & Treatment Center is offering FREE Dental Screenings for Children on Wednesday, February 22nd 2012.

A screening visit includes:
- Short visual exam to identify any trouble spots in gums, teeth and mouth
- Consultation with parents to answer questions;find out how to prevent oral disease and get tips on developing good habits for kids

All participants will receive a dental goody bag with toothbrush and have the chance to win a FREE Dental Sealant.

LOCATION: Cumberland Diagnostic & Treatment Center 100 North Portland Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11205
DATE: Wednesday, February 22nd 2012
HOURS: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
CONTACT: 718 260-4851

Buzzcar to Launch in Brooklyn

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:38:00 -0400
The founder of Zipcar is launching Buzzcar, an innovative vehicle-sharing service, right here in Brooklyn. Basically, local car owners rent their cars to local drivers, with Buzzcar taking care of insurance and technology. Unlike Zipcar, Buzcar doesn't own the vehicles. You do. The idea is to spread the environmental, social, personal and financial benefits of carsharing farther, wider, faster. Car owners get 60-65% of the revenue (Buzzcar takes 15%; insurance gets the difference). That could be as much as $1500 per neighbor that chooses to drive your car regularly. There's more diversity for renters: more kinds of cars, sometimes closer, with things like car seats! & bike racks! Sometime in February, Buzzcar will launch in Brooklyn. (They've been in France for 6 months now.) Signup and spread the word.

High-End Salon for 154 Vanderbilt

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 19:36:00 -0400
High-end salon, The Owl and the Pussycat, is slated to open in early Spring at 154 Vanderbilt Avenue between Myrtle and Willoughby. The new salon will be the first biz venture for British-born Stuart Fraser and his wife, who has years of business experience working at a top beauty house. The space is the former home of The Bakery aka Krumbs, that closed a few months ago.

Valentine Day on Myrtle (+ V-Day preview with the Toren Condos)

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 17:49:00 -0400
Ah, love is in the air! Grab your honey and come out to celebrate locally on Myrtle Avenue for Valentine's Day, February 14th (+ a preview on Saturday, 2/11)! Valentines day specials are available up and down Myrtle Avenuerestaurant, gift and spa specials available on Tuesday, February 14th and a preview available along with a tour of the Toren Condos at 150 Myrtle Avenue on February 11th. Please read below for details. Myrtle Avenue merchants and Rabiah Duncan of The Corcoran Group have joined forces for a "I LOVE MYRTLE AVENUE" Valentine's Day Weekend Open House at The Toren. Get a taste of luxury real estate with a tour of the Toren Condominiums (150 Myrtle Avenue) and its amazing amenities, including the pool, gym and rooftop on Saturday, February 11th from 12:00 - 2:00 PM. Hors doeuvres will be provided by Myrtle Avenue's own Soco Restaurant and sweet desserts by Myrtle Avenues CakeJoy Bakery. Pick up your Valentine's Day Weekend guide from the Toren and start exploring Myrtle Avenue. After the Open House, move east along Myrtle and experience everything the Avenue has to offer. Myrtle Avenue restaurants, gift, and spa specials take place on Saturday, February 11th (for Toren open house attendees) and Tuesday, February 14th for the entire neighborhood. Live music, prix fixe and 2-for-1 specials and much more. Contact Rabiah Duncan at Rabiah.Duncan@corcoran.com for more details or visit myrtleavenue.org/blog for the most up-to-date list of merchant specials. SHOP Brooklyn Stone Boutique, 366 Myrtle, (347) 763-2041 Discounts on select items plus browse some of the new items from the spring collection at this store known for its tres fashionable clothing and accessories. (Feb. 11th: Stop in for free sweet bites while browsing the racks) Green in BKLYN, 432 Myrtle, (718) 855-4383 Share or read sage love quotes in-store on recycled chalkboards or on the web. Count the ways you love Brooklyn too: stop in and check out Brian Merlis art exhibit on historic Clinton Hill. (Feb. 11: share and read sage love quotes and view the art exhibit). Karens Body Beautiful, 436 Myrtle, (718) 797-4808 Celebrate Love Day + KBBs 8th year anniversary this month! $25 mani-pedi special. Gift Cards can be used for spa services and bath, body and hair products. Beautiful Valentines Day gift baskets available in all price ranges. Stop in and mix and match-- lotions, shower gels, bar soaps, body splashes, soy candles, bath and massage oils, body butters and so much more for men, women and kids. (Feb. 11: get personal tour KBB's luxurious spa facilities) Kiini Ibura Jewelry, 388 Myrtle, (718) 858-5195 10% off of all red jewelry (includes corals and garnets). 20% off all scarves, jewelry and bags. Kiini Ibura Jewelry is handmade from precious and semi-precious stones. Sign-up for jewelry-making classes. (Feb. 11: 10% and 20% discounts available). Polish Bar of Brooklyn, 470 Myrtle, (718) 622-5363 The theme this Valentines Day at the Polish Bar of Brooklyn is Love Yourself. $50 V-Day special includes signature mani-pedi, brow wax, lash band application + complimentary cocktails and desserts (3p-8p). PASTRIES CakeJoy Bakery, 364 Myrtle, (718) 624-CAKE (2253) V-Day couples night includes massage, candlemaking and lots of sweet treats, $25 per person. (Feb. 11: Tasting at the Toren plus stop in-store for scrumptious homemade treats. DINE (note: RSVPs strongly recommended) Anima Italian Bistro, 458 Myrtle, (718) 422-1122 5-course Valentines Day menu, served from 5p-10p includes aperitivo, appetizer, primo, entrée and dolce. (Feb. 11: stay tuned for preview special) Chez Lola, 387 Myrtle, (718) 858-1484 Prix fixe Valentines Night menu includes amuse bouche, appetizers, main courses and desserts. (Feb. 11: 2-for-1 mimosas and dinner specials) Five Spot Soul Food & Supper Club, 459 Myrtle, (718) 852-0202 The theme is LOVE: acoustic session with RAHJ and band (8pm, $5 cover). All red velvet cakes and cupcakes on sale. Pillow Café-Lounge, 505 Myrtle, (718) 246-2711 Stop in for drink specials. Valentines Day Party: couples, singles, come out and celebrate love. Fresh delicious food and drinks on the menu. (Feb. 11: stay tuned for preview specials) Sans Souci Restaurant & Bar, 330 Myrtle, (347) 227-8135 Enjoy live music and drink specials. Discounts on lunch and dinner specials. Soco, 509 Myrtle, (718) 783-1936 DJ Frei plays favorite Valentines Day songs. Seating @ 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm, 10pm and 12am. (Feb. 11: hors d'ouevres at the Toren) Zaytoon's, 472 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 623-5522 Dessert specials at Zaytoons. Couples: choose any appetizers, entrees and desserts from the menu. (Feb. 11: stay tuned for preview specials) I'LL TOAST TO THAT Gnarly Vines, 350 Myrtle, (718) 797-3183 Valentine's Day wine tasting from 6p-9p. 10% off wines/ 5% off liqueurs featured during tasting. Check out the new Gregory Tuck photographic exhibit up at the wine shop. (Feb. 11: after wine tasting)

SONYA Social on 2/9 @ The Emerson!

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:22:00 -0400
Find out what's happening in the Fort Greene/Clinton Hill arts community over a drink with South of the Navy Yard Artists (SONYA)! They're hosting a 'social' on Thursday, February 9th at The Emerson (561 Myrtle) at 7pm.

Noah's Bridal is Open!

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:02:00 -0400
Noah's Bridal is now open for business, having opened their doors nearly 2 weeks ago. Attention brides, grooms, bridal parties, the wait is over! The new store, with its hardwood floors, flatscreen streaming stylish bridal runway shows above the reception desk and very friendly proprietors, is long on charm. Noah's Bridal is located at 352 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Carlton. Mother-daughter owners and Brooklyn residents, Naomi Charles and Jessica Eusebe had signed a lease for the 1000sf space last summer. Wedding gowns and special occasion dresses, bridal party and mother of the bride dresses, prom gowns; seamstress, design, custom tailoring, will be for available in the 1000sf space. Expect lots of special in-shop events as well. With the experience working in a bridal shop (Ms. Charles) and experience working in retail generally (Ms. Eusebe), the two are excited about this first time venture. Noah's Bridal is located at 352 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi. Reach the shop at 347.889.5303.

Super Bowl XLVI on Myrtle Avenue!

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:25:00 -0400
Woo hoo, Super Bowl XLVI this Sunday, February 5th. Giants! Giants! Giants! Giants! Let's do this! Watch the New York Giants and the New England Patriots go head to head at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. Stop in at any of the Myrtle Avenue businesses below to check out the game, viewing opps, drink specials and more, here's a bit of a round up (stay tuned for possible additions by Sunday). Call the businesses directly for further details. Anima Italian Bistro 458 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly/Washington) 718.422.1122 wide screen tv--93" projection screen in main dining; $5 tap beer and house drinks; wings and pizza Bamboo Lounge & Grill 527 Myrtle Avenue (Grand/Steuben) 718.398.2405 Doors open at 3:00pm. Enjoy 20 piece hot wing buckets, beer buckets, almost giveaway margaritas and sangrias and more. Castro's 511 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson/Grand) 718.398.1459 Chez Lola 387 Myrtle Avenue (Clermont/Vanderbilt) 718.858.1484 burgers, nachos, beer and drink specials El Cofre 454 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly/Washington) 718.935.1153 television viewing and food made to order The Emerson Bar 561 Myrtle Avenue (Emerson/Classon) 347.763.1310 projector screen and awesome beer specials. bring snacks--The Emerson will have free wings available. Super Bowl pool is $10 per box (must be filled before kick off). Total winning if all boxes are filled: 1st quarter prize $100; half time prize $200; 3rd quarter prize $100; final score prize $400. Happy Hour 3p-7:30 (2-for-1 draft and well) Kick-off, 6:30p. From 8p-close ($1 off all bottled beer). DJ and Dance Party after Five Spot Soul Food and Supper Club 459 Myrtle Avenue (Waverly/Washington) 718.852.0202 large screen projector, wing specials and more Los Pollitos III 499 Myrtle Avenue (Hall/Ryerson) 718.636.6125 flatscreen tv and food and drink specials Pillow Café 505 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson/Grand) 718.246.2711 large flat screen, nachos, chili nachos, buffalo wings, chips + guacamole, happy hour all day. Rope 415 Myrtle Avenue (Vanderbilt/Clinton) 718.522.2899 huge flatscreen tv, happy hour beer and drink specials all day. wing specials. free pizza. Super Bowl pool is $10 per box Sans Souci 320 Myrtle Avenue (Washington Park/Carlton) 347.227.8135 $5 admission gets you lots of free food and into the after party. Huge flat screen tv to view the game, $3 beer, $5 shots. Soco 509 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson/Grand) 718.783.1936 food, fun and football. Live DJ for the Soco after part. Food and drink specials all night long. Make your reservations now: 718.783.1936. Touche Lounge 46 Washington Avenue (Flushing/Park) huge projector screens, HDTVs on 2 levels w/surround sound. Pool table on main floor. Super Bowl food and drink specials all day. Half time reffles and prizes after party DJ, Big Lou. No cover. Gnarly Vines 350 Myrtle Avenue (Carlton/Adelphi) 718.797.3183 assorted wine 6-packs and more Karrot Health Food 431 Myrtle (Clinton/Waverly) 718.522.9753 Karrot carries high-end imported craft beer, such as La Fin Du Monde, Triple Karmeliet and the Hulk, a natural-ingredient brew Greene-ville Garden 375 Myrtle (Clermont/Adelphi) 718.222.3733 6-pack and growler specials Khim's Millenium Market 536 Myrtle (Grand/Steuben) 718.819.1708 6-pack and growler specials Klevor Liquors 343 Myrtle (Carlton/Adelphi) 718.875.3991 Call Klevor if you need to order liquor, Brooklyn Sangria or Rum Punch, get suggestions, arrange deliveries or have a signature drink created Little Louies Pizza & Kitchen 360 Myrtle (Carlton/Adelphi) 718.797.5280 pizza, hot hero and wing specials and soft drinks

Navy Green Development Update + Community Meeting: Thursday 2/9

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:22:00 -0400
Construction is complete at two buildings, and families have begun to move in. What's going on at this brand new community in Wallabout?

The Development Team for Navy Green invite you to learn more about ongoing construction and their future plans by attending a community meeting at L+M's affordable rental building, 45 Clermont. The details:

Thursday February 9, 2012 (6-8pm)
45 Clermont Avenue - Community Room
between Park and Flushing
Fort Greene/Wallabout Brooklyn

RSVP to rsvp@prattarea.org.

This event is sponsored by:
Brooklyn Community and Housing Services, Dunn Development, L+M Development and Pratt Area Community Council The housing application process is under the direction of the Pratt Area Community Council (PACC). All questions relating to housing at Navy Green can be directed to PACC by calling 718-522-2613.

Myrtle and Adelphi Update: GWay pushes ahead

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:26:00 -0400
Gway Management Company has been steadily moving forward in securing new commercial tenants for the spaces at 352-360 Myrtle since the Easter Day fire that broke out on Myrtle between Adelphi and Carlton back in 2010. Little Louie's Pizza was the first to return some months after. Other new tenants include Noah's Bridal (354 Myrtle), a lovely bridal boutique that has been open for one week and the upcoming Burger Ur Way, an eco-friendly fast food burgers, wings and pizza eatery that uses farm-secured Angus beef for the burgers (see 'meet the rancher' section on their website) and a Japanese restaurant (we will keep you posted on the restaurant's name). Hardee's Chinese Restaurnat is now relocated across the street at 351 Myrtle Avenue. There is still one commercial vacancy available in the building. The 950sf space is renting for $3995/mo. Please call GWay Management at 718.399.9300 if interested.

Huey's Chueys to open Wednesday, 2/1.

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:18:00 -0400
Huey's Chueys Candy Boutique to open tomorrow. Soft opening is tomorrow, February 1st at noon for the new sweets boutique which will sell candy by the pound, other sweets and ice cream. Expect old fashioned candy (think: jaw breakers, gum balls, Mary Janes) as well as the more new-fangled variety. The twin owners, Denny and Jenny are no strangers to the area, having previously lived on the Avenue for years. Huey's Chueys is located at 378 Myrtle Avenue between Clermont and Adelphi. They'll open 12noon.

Minor B54 Changes

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:50:00 -0400
Last week, the MTA removed two B54 stops and moved a third stop. These changes were made to improve service be creating three-block spacing between stops. Both the eastbound and westbound B54 stops at Kent Avenue were removed. There are existing stops one block away at Franklin Avenue. The westbound stop at Emerson Place was moved one block east to Classon Avenue.

"Eat - Work - Grow the Movement"
Just Food Conference 2012

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 13:51:00 -0400
Join over 1,000 local food lovers and advocates, CSA members, community gardeners, urban and rural farmers, food professionals and entrepreneurs at the Just Food "Eat - Work - Grow the Movement" conference 2012 on February 24th and 25th!

The conference will include over 100 workshops providing attendees with opportunities to learn about:
- cooking and food preservation techniques
- CSA trends
- local and national farm and food issues
- ways to mobilize communities in order to increase access to farm-fresh, locally grown food

A Good Food Jobs Fair will be available on Friday and an EXPO featuring "exemplary local food artisans, sustainable businesses, and organizations" will conclude the conference on Saturday. For more information and schedule Click Here.

When: Friday, February 24 8:30am 7pm & Saturday, February 25 8am 6pm
Where: Food & Finance High School @ 525 West 50th Street, New York, NY 10019
Cost: Tickets are $30 per day or $50 for both days. Discounted rates of $15 (for one day) and $30 for both days) are available for students, farmers and low-income community members. Tickets to the Job Fair only cost $15. Register and purchase tickets Here.

We plan to be there and hope you will too!

Child Development Support Corporation (CDSC) 4th Annual Community Art Show and Sale

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 -0400
Child Development Support Corporation (CDSC) is a multi-service, non-profit organization that offers art services, among other programs, to youth, seniors, and families in Fort Greene, Clinton Hill and Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn. They strive to renovate their 5,000 square feet of raw space into a community arts center to provide art instruction and to further their mission by "fostering skill development, self-expression, knowledge, enjoyment, and community connections through the creative process".

To help realize their goals CDSC is hosting their 4th Annual 2012 Community Art Show & Sale. The event will offer FREE art classes, live entertainment and an art show for all to enjoy!

Where: 352 Classon Ave, Brooklyn
Dates & Times: Friday, January 20th 6-10PM and Saturday, January 21st 10AM-4PM
For more information call 718-398-2050

Zaytoons on BCAT

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:17:00 -0400
Zaytoons restaurant, featuring the finest in Middle Eastern cuisine, is highlighted in a BCAT/Brooklyn Independent Television Neighborhood Beat program. Check it out. The 6-minute BCAT segment can be viewed here. It is chock full of information, including information about the restaurant's history, owners and yes, delicious RECIPES! Zaytoons is located at 472 Myrtle Avenue and can be reached at 718.623.5522.

Free books for your ereader: get them at the Brooklyn Public Library

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:18:00 -0400
We received an email from the BPL Whitman Branch about the growing list of ebooks available at the BPL. We can now access over 20,000 ebooks at the Brooklyn Public Library. Click here for a full list of Brooklyn Public Library available ebooks. Call a BPL branch for further information. The number for the Whitman Branch is 718.935.0244 (press option 4). image courtesy Brooklyn Public Library

CakeJoy Celebrates 1 Year this Saturday!!

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:41:00 -0400
A bakery celebrating an anniversary sounds like pure delectable bliss to us! And it promises to be, so stop in! CakeJoy Bakery located at 364 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Clermont is celebrating its one year anniversary this Saturday, 1/14 from 8p-11p--seven layer chocolate cake, creme brulee, fondue, chocolate covered strawberries and more, including the delectable cupcakes we all know and love. Come out and sip sangria and sample lots of new goodies too! CakeJoy is located at 364 Myrtle Avneue between Adelphi and Clermont and can be reached at 718.624.CAKE (2253).

Exploring Myrtle Avenues Past Through an Artists Lens

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:17:00 -0400
This past weekend, The New York Times' Lens Blog ran an interesting piece describing long-time resident William Gedneys journal, which he wrote in 1969 and serves as a love letter to the Myrtle Avenue he knew. Gedney, an artist who moved to the area in the 1950s, was a gifted photographer and, as his journal shows, had an admiring eye for the urban beauty found on Myrtle over 40 years ago. Check out the article to view some of his photographs and to flip through his 92-page journal. Photo credit: William Gedney, 1969. From MARP's photo collection.

Just Because Hair Therapy Salon Celebrates 5 Years!

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 17:08:00 -0400
Just Because Hair Therapy Salon is celebrating 5 years of excellent service on Friday, January 13th at 7pm! They invite you to stop in and help them pop open the champagne. Champagne, light bites, music, celebration and comraderie--stop in. Just Because Hair Therapy Salon was recently voted one of Uptown Magazine's top beauty shops for not only their skill in grooming and styling, but their "therapy approach" that makes the health of the hair an integral part of the experience. Additionally, the salon has devoted at least half of its years of service to the Prom Queen Project, a project created by Just Because to assist local youth w/workshops, pampering and prom clothing. Just Because Salon is located at 141 Carlton Avenue, just north of Myrtle Avenue. Please call the salon at 718.722.7810 to set up an appointment or to RSVP for their 5 year anniversary event.

Brooklyn Tap House Soft Opening Weekend!

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:47:00 -0400
Brooklyn Tap House, located at 590 Myrtle Avenue, just off of Classon Avenue, is opening their doors TODAY--soft opening! The email sent from Brooklyn Tap House reads as follows: "Brooklyn Tap House would like to invite you and your friends to our "soft opening" and take a sneak peek of this exciting new place. Please keep in mind that a "soft opening" means that this would give our management and staff a chance to experience, learn and become familiar with our daily operations. This will help us learn of any service flaws, food prep issues, timing and to determine how to prep and pre-prep our bar, kitchen and service areas so that we can work out any kinks in our system and be ready to make our best impression at the official "grand opening". In other words please bear with us and tell your server about your experience. We would sincerely appreciate and value your feedback." "Soft Opening" Friday, January 6 (4pm-4am); Saturday, January 7 (12noon-4am); Sunday, January 8 (12noon-12am) Menu: 40 Craft Beers on Tap and a limited food menu The 7000sf indoor/outdoor alehouse and beer garden with the 'no crap on tap' slogan features 40 different beers on tap (with the capacity to expand to 100!). The business website states, "the finest beer, great food and and a nice comfortable environment with excellent service." photo credit: Fort Greene-Clinton Hill Patch

Feeling cold? Warm up with some sake at Waza

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:32:00 -0400
If you're looking for a way to warm up, think about dropping by Waza Sushi and Ramen (485 Myrtle) to sample something from their new sake menu! The restaurant is now serving both warm and cold sake, in addition to their delicious sushi and ramen menu.

Mulch Fest @ Fort Greene Park, Jan. 7 and 8

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 13:04:00 -0400
MulchFest 2012 will take place on Saturday and Sunday, January 7th and 8th, from 10am to 2pm. Chip in! Mulch your tree! Help NYC grow. MulchFest provides New Yorkers an opportunity to bring their holiday trees to designated sites where they are ground into wood chips. The chips can then be placed in tree pits and gardens. Parks & Recreation encourages New Yorkers to help the environment and their community by participating in this event. Our local MulchFest location is Fort Greene Park. Enter Park at the intersection of Washington Park and Willoughby Avenue. Participants are encouraged to bring bags to take advantage of the free mulch provided. All lights, ornaments and stands must be taken off holiday trees. The MulchFest chipper in Fort Greene Park is sponsored by NYC Parks & Recreation in partnership with the Society for Clinton Hill, the Fort Greene Association and The Fort Greene Park Conservancy

What are you doing New Years Eve?

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:57:00 -0400
Still undecided on your New Years Eve plans? Theres something here for every kind of party, from fam to glam. Check em out.

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New Years Eve Party at Touche Lounge
Touche Lounge invites you to bring in the new year with them at their New Years Eve Party. Taking place on 12/31 (doors open at 9pm), the night will include the sounds of world renowned DJ, champagne toast, live New Years Eve countdown and festive holiday favors. Click here for additional detail. Come out and have a real good time as you welcome in the new.

Touche is located at 46 Washington Avenue between Park and Flushing. Contact them at 718.643.6500 or 917.208.0641

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First Annual New Years Eve Ball at Soco

Socos First Annual New Years Eve Ball kicks off on December 31st at 9pm. This black carpet, black tie event will feature a complimentary champagne bar, passed hors doeuvres by Chef Kingsley John, a cigar room and Brooklyn best DJs. Table and party packages are available. Limited space is available so please make your reservations today!

Soco, short for Southern Comfort has a menu of delectable southern fusion fare and a full bar with drinks and cocktails created by mixologist George Duvall. For more details about the New Years Event, please click here. Soco is located at 509 Myrtle Avenue. Soco can be reached at 718.783.1936.

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Ring in the New Year at Putnams Pub & Cooker

Ring in the New Year at Putnams Pub & Cooker! This free New Years Eve Party will feature DJs Max Power and Troy at the turntables. Great music, party favors and free champagne toast at midnight. Free entry. The party is from 10p until 4a. For more info, click here. Putnam's offers 24 quality draft beers, 40 quality bottled beers, 2 highly unique Cask Ales, an extensive wine menu and delicious assortment of small plates, salads and large plates for dinner.

Putnams Pub & Cooker is located at 419 Myrtle, nw corner of Clinton Avenue and can be reached by telephone at: 347.799.2382.

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Thar She Blows: Pratt Institutes New Years Eve Steam Whistle Blow

Usher the New Year in at Pratt Institutes Annual Steam Whistle Blow. The Steam Whistle Blow, which takes place every New Years Eve on the Pratt Main campus at 200 Willoughby Avenue, was nominated in 2008 to the Municipal Art Society of New York (MAS NYC) Census of Places That Matter. It was cited as being a literal New Years Eve blast. Pulling the lever on the whistle from the U.S.S. Normandy and being enveloped in steam is an experience not to be missed, stated the MAS article.

Check out this video of the steam whistle blow its a sight to behold.
Photo credit: Frank Bonomo: http://mas.org/featured-place-that-matters-pratts-new-years-eve-steam-whistle-blow/

Some holiday celebrations may call for a designated driver...

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:52:00 -0400
...and NYC Department of Transportation has an app for that! Check out You The Man, DOT's campaign to combat drunk driving which includes a free app where you can calculate Blood Alcohol content, and a handy feature for finding a car service. If youre drinking this Holiday Season, dont get behind the wheel. Use one of New York Citys 10,000 designated drivers, also known as cab drivers. Or, take public transit, which runs 24-7 in NYC. If youre here in Fort Greene or Clinton Hill, add these car service numbers to your phone just in case: Myrtle Car 718-230-4499 and Pratt Car 718-789-4900.

Be safe this holiday season!

Brooklyn Junior - holiday fashion for little tykes

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:34:00 -0400
Visit Brooklyn Junior to make sure your tyke is fashion forward. All of the colorful designs are created and sewn by biz owner, Nadia Georgiou. Also, toys and accessories are whimsical and oh so cute. Youll have to catch Brooklyn Junior at the Brooklyn Flea (from 2p-9p at 1 Hanson Place [at Ashland Place]) this Thursday, 12/22 but stop in at the shop or call with questions anytime.

The NY Daily News recently featured Brooklyn Junior in its holiday gift guide. Check it out here (image 4). The Brooklyn Heart onesie at Brooklyn Junior was listed as Best for Kids with it style and baby-safe dyes. Check out the Brooklyn Junior website to see THE CUTEST onesies, dresses, tees, winter gear and other clothing at Brooklyn Junior.

Brooklyn Junior is located at 150 Clinton Avenue, just north of Myrtle--across from Connecticut Muffin. Stop in or order online! The store is closed on Mondays. Telephone: 347.742.2623

Let Klevor Liquors Help with Your Holiday Event

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:04:00 -0400
Klevor Liquors (also known as 'The Liq'), located at 343 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi, is a one-stop liquor shop for your holiday events! Add a personal touch to your gathering by choosing a signature cocktail. Pick a drink that stars your favorite liquor, matches your color scheme, or just sounds delicious. In addition to the myriad libations on Klevors shelves, Brooklyn Sangria and Brookyn Rum Punch are also available.

If you need to order liquor, Brooklyn Sangria or Rum Punch, get suggestions, arrange deliveries or have a signature drink created, please give them a call at 718.875.3991.

Last minute gift ideas on Myrtle: Pushkin Creperie, Kiini Ibura, and Green Pets!

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:43:00 -0400
Are you a last-minute shopper looking for unique gift ideas? Check out these ideas for foodies, fashionistas and furry friends!

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Holiday Gourmet Gifts Available at Pushkin Creperie Bakery

Pushkin Creperie Bakery has put together holiday gourmet gift ideas for the foodies among us. In addition to gift certificates for the delicious sweet and savory crepes, boxes of organic loose teas from SerendipiTeas and bags of organic coffee beans from Brooklyn Roasting Company coffee are also available. Tins or bags of homemade cookies are also available in a variety of flavors, such as:

German Gingerbread Cookies
Russian Tea Cookies with walnuts
Caribbean Coconut Cookies
Norwegian Butter Cookies w/homemade strawberry jam
Middle Eastern Sesame Tahini Cookies

Pushkin Creperie Bakery is located in the Absolute Building at 541 Myrtle Avenue between Grand and Steuben. Contact them at 718.783.0033.

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Get Byron Lars Barbie Doll and More at Kiini Ibura Jewelry

Kiini Ibura Jewelryis definitely a go-to store for beautiful and unique gift items. Owner, Melody Burns is noted for her jewelry making skillscreating pieces that are 100% handmade and which feature precious and semi-precious stones, including turquoise, Ghanaian glass, Austrian crystals, African amber and fresh water pearls. Melody's work has been seen on the likes of Whoopi Goldberg, who donned a gorgeous Kiini Ibura necklace on an episode of The View late last year and singers, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and Angie Stone.

Kiini Ibura is also a great place for other fashion accessories such as hats, scarves and gloves. And Barbie loversKiini Ibura is also a place to purchase Barbie dolls by esteemed fashion designer, Byron Lars. In the picture above, Barbie Gold Label/Pepper Diva by Byron Lars, the 3rd doll in his Chapeaux Collection for Mattel. Released in 2008, there were only a limited number of units of this doll made. The doll dons a couture coat with high fashion accents including high collar and dramatic bow that turns into a train in the back, stylish tan pants and gloves, fishnet stockings, high heels and faux pearl necklace, updo hairstyle with stylish hat perched atop: Pow!

Kiini Ibura Jewelry is located at 388 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt and Clermont. Call the shop at 718.858.5195 with questions.

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Green Pets Store Renovation + Holiday Gifts for our 4-Legged Friends

Green Pets Spa & Boutique (572 Myrtle) offers daycare, boarding, grooming and a large separate play area, with eco-friendly products and services. There have accessories like leashes, collars and toys made from recycled materials and natural shampoos. Some pet food is also available.

Green Pets is located at 572 Myrtle Avenue, between Emerson Place and Classon Avenue and can be reached at 718.230.8300.

Cielo Bar to open in February

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:14:00 -0400
Cielo Bar is planning a February opening. For now--the shingle has been hung. The nearly 2000sf bar with shades of light gray and patches of lovely tilework will feature a concise menu of delicious Latin American plates, excellent cocktails and great ice cold beer. Flat screens, private and semi-private rooms in back, 78 chairs (at the bar and around) and special events are a few things to look forward. Connect to Cielo Bar on Facebook for up-to-date information on the bar's opening. Cielo Bar is located at 474 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street.

Groupon Alert: Karen's Body Beautiful Spa Special

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:30:00 -0400
Groupon Alert: $149 Spa Day for 2 with champagne at Karen's Body Beautiful Buy NOW and use by Sept. 26th means buy now and use NOW or as a holiday gift or on New Year's Eve or on Valentine's Day with the honey or a treat for the job promotion or big account or graduation or ... There's absolutely never a wrong time to indulge. This Groupon Alert includes two 50-minute Swedish massages, two 5-star finger manicures, two runway beauty pedicures, a choice of two vichy showers w/aromatherapy steam massages or bath soaks, and two complimentary glasses of champagne. Here's the Groupon ad. Hurry! Karen's Body Beautiful is located at 436 Myrtle Avenue between Clinton and Waverly Avenues. The spa can be reached at 718.797.4808.

Energy Fuel: lean and mean and yummy--and it's open!

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:02:00 -0400
Energy Fuel Restaurant and Juice Bar opened two weeks ago to lots of buzz. The new restaurant and juice bar, which specializes in delicious food that is lower in fat and cholesterol, uses the slogan, 'never fried or cooked in oil...always grilled and baked,' specializes in goooood, lean cooking and healthy juices. Just a sampling of yummy deciousness on the menu: gourmet wraps such as egg whites and steak, chicken and spinach and tilapia; energy plates such as the 'energy terminator (chicken breast w/choice of chili or lentil beans, organic pasta or organic brown rice), and 'taste of Italy' (chicken or eggplant, tomato sauce and low-fat mozzarella over organic wheat pasta); low-carb energy plates such as fresh tilapia, sirloin steak, 'Popeye Junior' (chicken served with cooked spinach). Fresh juices include fruit and juice combos like papaya, blueberry, banana, mango, pineapple, carrot and also include those that help with ailments like the cold buster (carrot, beets, cucumber, spinach) and juice combos for hypertension (carrot, spinach, pineapple and banana) and those that help with what you'd like to achieve like the liver cleanse (carrot and celery) and the fat burner (spinach, grapefruit and apple). And of course there's bison and ostrich. Check out the complete menu here! Energy Fuel on Myrtle is the eatery's 4th location. Energy Fuel is located at 386 Myrtle Avenue and can be reached at 347.889.6990/1. It's open 7 days a week.

2011 Holiday Windows Contest Winners!

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:20:00 -0400
Congratulations to our 2011 Holiday Windows Contest Winners! Drum roll, please....
First Place: Holiday Hookah at Zaytoons, by Natalia Zuckerman
Second Place: Notes at Thai 101 by Leola Bermanzohn
Third Place: Cheers at Anima by Natalia Zuckerman

A very special thanks to all the artists and merchants who participated this season! And, thanks to YOU for voting on our Facebook page. May the rest of your 2011 days be merry and bright!

Utrecht Art Supply Store is Open for Biz!

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:22:00 -0400
Utrecht Art Supply Store, located at 536 Myrtle Avenue between Steuben and Grand in the LEED-certified Myrtle Hall, is open for business. Soft opening yesterday afternoon and grand opening planned soon. This is sort of a return to its roots for Utrecht as the company website outlines that that the company was founded in 1949 by two brothers from Brooklyn, one an artist and the other a chemist. Welcome to Myrtle Avenue and back to Brooklyn, Utrecht! The store can be reached at 718.789.0308.

Brooklyn Stone Boutique: Holiday Blowout Sale

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 14:39:00 -0400
If you are looking for that just right dress for the holidays, stop in at Brooklyn Stone Boutique. On countdown to the holidays--storewide discounts range from 20%-50% off. What's more, as a store philosophy, Brooklyn Stone Boutique only carries a few pieces of each design in the store, ensuring that your look and style remain as unique as you'd like. Here are a few dresses, accessories and just in items at Brooklyn Stone Boutique: click here! Brooklyn Stone Boutique is located at 366 Myrtle Avenue between Chermont and Adelphi and can be reached at 347.763.2041. photo: Brooklyn Stone Boutique holiday dresses

A new tradition in Fort Greene: Tree Lighting at Ingersoll

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 12:18:00 -0400
Last Friday's tree lighting ceremony at the Ingersoll Garden of Eden was wonderful! University Settlement did a great job organizing the event there were all kinds of activity stations, including cookie decorating, letter writing to the troops, and holiday stocking decorating. There also was hot chocolate and cider, photos with Santa, a dance performance by the Centers dance squad, and the McKinney marching band!

Gardeners from the Ingersoll Garden of Eden were also instrumental in making the event possible, even helping to to hoist the tree and put the lights on it themselves! They definitely deserve recognition for their hard work and commitment to the community, and hosting the holiday tree in the garden was a continuation of their efforts. Everyone in attendance was really proud to be part of this historic event!

MARP provided a small sponsorship to cover hot chocolate, cider and various supplies. It was an absolute pleasure to be able to support an event that brought people together in this way. There truly was holiday spirit in the air. Everyone felt it.

Tree Lighting @ the Ingersoll Garden of Eden > Tonight!

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 10:51:00 -0400
Come out and celebrate the beginning of a new holiday tradition - a tree lighting at the Ingersoll Garden of Eden! The lighting of the tree takes place at 5:30pn today (Friday), with all kinds of fun activities and crafts at the Ingersoll Community Center afterward including cookie decorating, a visit from Santa, free hot chocolate and cider, and christmas crafts!

Green in BKLYN in recent Epoch Times!

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 13:14:00 -0400
Green in BKLYN was highlighted in a recent Epoch Times article, titled, Greening Up Black Friday, about holiday sales at green stores around the City. The article gives a thumbs up to to Elissa Olin, owner of Green in BKLYN, and her staffs knowledge-base and helpfulness in finding the perfect gift and lists the wide range of gift categories that can be found at Green in BKLYN including home goods, beauty products, greeting cards, kids toys and clothes, coffees, teas, chocolates and of course, so much more. Heres the Epoch Times article. Some Green in BKLYN holiday wish list items are below, or scroll to the end for the more complete list, offering a little someone for everyone on your holiday list:

Fobots (Found Object Robots). The Tooth Fairy Fobot is one of our favorites.
Voltaic Solar Powered Bags for laptops, iPads and other electronic stuff. Check it out here.
MUNY cotton quilts designed in Brooklyn, made in Mumbai
Brooklyn-based reclaimed leather bags from Baggu
The Beer Making Book and Kits from the Brooklyn Brew Shop
Brooklyn Common Good Refillable Cleaning Products This is neat. This Brooklyn-grown line of cleansers is biodegradable, dye- and fragrance-free.
For a more COMPLETE wish list by Green in BKLYN, go here. Green in BKLYN is located at 432 Myrtle Avenue between Clinton and Waverly and can be reached at 718.855.4383.

Karen's Body Beautiful in latest issue of Essence Magazine!

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 16:57:00 -0400
Karen, owner of Karen's Body Beautiful is highlighted in the January issue of Essence Magazine. In the article titled, 'How She Does It!' in the new Work & Wealth/Minding Your Business column, columnist Monique Greenwood describes how Karen turned her personal mission of healthier and more natural living into a successful business model. "Once I realized that I couldn't pronounce half the ingredients in the lotions and hair products I was using, I started to experiment by creating hair growth serums and shea body butter using all natural ingredients such as jojoba oil and argan oil," shares the article. Karen's Body Beautiful is known for its spa and all natural yummy-smelling, feeling and good for you hair, bath and body products made on premises. The article further discusses Karen's motivation for starting the business, strategy for continued success, biz finance and future plans, which include 17 new products in development. Karen's Body Beautiful is located at 436 Myrtle Avenue and can be reached 718.797.4808.

Holiday Windows: Vote for your favorite on Facebook!

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:58:00 -0400
It's the most wonderful time of the year...holiday windows contest time! This year, we've got 19 windows in total between Classon and Washington Park. Stroll down the avenue to check them out, and vote for your favorite on Facebook. It's easy, just click "like" on the photo of your favorite window. Winning artists and merchants get bragging rights for 2012. We'll annouce the winners on Tuesday, December 20th.

MARP Holiday Fundraiser: Thanks for Celebrating w/Us!

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 11:51:00 -0400
Thanks for coming out to the MARP holiday party and fundraiser last week, December 7th. A good time was had by all! Delicious food and drinks, service and holiday decorations at Putnam's Pub & Cooker ; great sounds by the inimitable Bill Lee and The New York Bass Violin Choir; great vibes and smiles with friends of MARP. Click here for more pics by photographer, Frederick V. Nielsen II.

Help Brooklyn Tech High School Get a Rooftop Garden!

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 09:37:00 -0400
There are only 14 hours to go - vote now!

Brooklyn Tech is seeking a grant to help cover the steep cost of building an extensive rooftop garden. The garden would enable the school to offer new courses related to food, nutrition, and agriculture while also providing healthy food for its lunchroom. Help by voting for them now!

Myrtle Avenue Welcomes New Public Recycling Bins

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:57:00 -0400
Public recycling bins now stand at four busy intersections on Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. The following locations have a bin for paper and a bin for bottles and cans: Ashland and Myrtle (Southwest corner), Adelphi and Myrtle (Northeast corner), Clinton and Myrtle (Southeast corner), Hall and Myrtle (Southeast corner). Each pair is adjacent to a regular trash bin, so pedestrians will have the ability to properly dispose of all items. Recycling bins and clear liners are provided by the New York City Department of Sanitation through their Public Space Recycling Program. On Tuesdays, The Doe Fund will move bags of recyclables to the curb and Sanitation will remove them overnight. However, if a recycling bin becomes full before the pick-up day, The Doe Fund will transport the full bag to the Red Apple Supermarket on Myrtle Avenue and Ashland Place to store until collection. We will evaluate public space recycling on Myrtle over the next year, and depending on the publics response, may expand to more locations in the future. Please help keep Myrtle clean!

Complimentary Cocktail Tasting Tonight @ Soco

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:39:00 -0400
Join Soco for a complimentary cocktail tasting tonight, 12/7 from 7:30p-9:30p during Soco's Wednesday Night Social. Master Mixologist George Duvall mixing up delicious, knock-your-socks-off drinks for all. Stop in. Soco is located at 509 Myrtle Avenue. Soco can be reached at 718.783.1936.

Get Fresh! Provides a Snapshot of the Local Food Environment and Generates Actions for Change

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:45:00 -0400
We are pleased to announce the release of the Fort Greene / Clinton Hill Community Food Assessment (CFA) titled Get Fresh! Food access, food justice and collective action in Fort Greene & Clinton Hill, a report researched and created in collaboration with local residents and food advocates. The report serves as a snapshot of the local food environment in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, and will inform community-led efforts to improve access to fresh food, create opportunities for nutritional awareness and education, and strengthen advocacy efforts. Click here for the full Get Fresh! report.

Among several findings, the report concludes that access to quality, affordable fresh food is limited; SNAP/EBT acceptance by higher-quality retailers is low; and residents are ready and eager to learn more about ways of improving their own nutrition through education. For more detailed information you can read the Press Release by clicking here.

This holiday season, hopefully youll be gathering with friends, family and neighbors around a bountiful table filled with your favorite holiday dishes. If you can, take just a few minutes to talk about some of the findings from the Get Fresh! Report, and consider getting involved in community-led projects to transform our local food environment into a more just and robust system for all!

Three projects that are starting right now are: 1) help to increase the number of food retailers that accept EBT 2) participate in grocery shopping tours to help consumers make healthier choices and 3) help to close the loop on holiday food donations. The latter project is already under way and involves encouraging those who are collecting food donations (and toys and coats) to deliver them to local pantries and churches for local distribution. Several merchants have already volunteered to serve as donation drop-off sites including: Five Spot (459 Myrtle), Maggie Brown (455 Myrtle), Green in BKLYN (432 Myrtle), Kiini Ibura (388 Myrtle), Brooklyn Stone Boutique (366 Myrtle), Cake Joy (364 Myrtle), Fort Greene SNAP (324 Myrtle) and St. Josephs College Tuohy Hall (245 Clinton). St. Josephs College will be donating farm-fresh produce to area pantries as well. If you have a location youd like to add as a drop-off location or would like to help coordinate the efforts of this project please contact Kassy Nystrom at kassy@myrtleavenue.org or 718-230-1689.

Bill Lee Peforming at MARP's Holiday Fundraiser - this Wednesday!

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:41:00 -0400
Update: Just confirmed! Local bassist Bill Lee and The New York Bass Violin Choir will be performing bass duets and quartets at Wednesday's holiday fundraiser!

It's time to come to Myrtle Avenue for the holidays, from Small Business Saturday on November 26th, to the start of the Holiday Windows Contest on December 3rd, to the annual holiday fundraiser on December 7th. This year's holiday fundraiser is at Putnam's Pub & Cooker (419 Myrtle), from 5:30 to 7:30pm, where you'll have open bar and your favorite holiday cocktails, live music sponsored by our friends at ConEdison, and lots of great food from Putnam's menu. We really hope all of our friends and neighbors can join us this year to take in the holiday cheer.

Tickets are only $30/person or $50/couple (all drinks, food, and music included!) if bought by December 6th at HelpersUnite.com or at http://tinyurl.com/MyrtleHolidays2011. (It's $35/person on December 7th or at the door)

Hope to see you there! And happy holidays!

Holiday Trees and Wreaths on Myrtle!

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 17:43:00 -0400
Did you get your holiday tree yet? Well, no need to go far because Santos and his family have been selling holiday trees on Myrtle Avenue for many years. Where and when: the northwest corner of Myrtle and Hall, from 12noon until about 9pm each day. They have quite a selection of trees, starting from $25. They also have a broad assortment of wreaths, starting at $10. Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way...

First Fridays @ RePOP: Furniture Sale + Free Parking Group Exhibit, Dec. 2

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:09:00 -0400
RePOP 95% Recycled presents FREE PARKING, a group drawing and painting show. Artist reception is Friday, December 2nd, 7:30p-11p. You are cordially invited to RePOP this Friday, December 2 from 7 - 11 pm to view the works of 16 extremely talented artists exhibiting impressive drawings and paintings. Curated by Sean Alexander, the artists include: Ian Faden, Chrissy Angliker, David M. Cook, Caleb Engstrom, Spencer Anderson, Caitlin Reller, Anthony Cudahy, Rin Lack, Paul Dally, Chris Nosenzo, Annie Pendergrass, John P. Dessereau, Matt Maher and RePOP's own Carl Grauer, Jimmy McBride and Sean Alexander. The walls of the shop will be graced with these amazing works up and through the holiday season. Perfect for gift giving or to round off that room in your home in need of that ultimate design finish. Come out for an evening of meeting the artists, mingling with objects and enjoying the night in a fabulously unique setting. Save 15% on all merchandise on Free Parking opening exhibit evening only with mention of this post (with exception of the fine art and Ellie jewels). Fabulous furniture, including new acquisitions, rustic industrial storage, Danish arm chairs and credenzas and a Paul Cobb collection. REPOP is located at 68 Washington Avenue between Park and Flushing Avenues. They can be reached at 718.260.8032.

Fun Ride + Celebrate the Cyclist Community at Red Lantern Bicycles, Dec. 3

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:12:00 -0400
Bikers!! Join the Toys for Tots Fun Ride. Meet fellow bikers at Tompkins Square Park at 2pm. After the ride, come out to Red Lantern Bicycles for a celebration of the Urban Cyclist Community in NYC. Golden Bike 2 Awards and holiday party. Live music by the Coast Kids, drinks and food available. Here are the details. Come out and have a good time! Contact urbancyclistworldwide.com or nybmf.org for further information. Red Lantern is located at 345 Myrtle between Carlton and Adelphi. They can be reached at 347.889.5338.

Anima's Pizza is Sooo Good!

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 10:08:00 -0400
Van Sias' article in the Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Local features some of the most DE-licious, hot from the oven, pizza in the neighborhood. The article describes Anima Italian Bistro's hot, brick oven, Diavola, topped with sopressata, mozzarella, caramelized red onion, olives....yummmmmm. Okay, step back, no salivating with face ON the computer screen (note to selves really). The article also gives a big two thumbs up to the brick oven deliciousness at Il Porto on Washington between Park and Flushing and Graziella's on Vanderbilt between Willoughby and DeKalb. Check out the Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Local article here. Anima Italian Bistro is located at 458 Myrtle Avenue between Waverly and Washington. Please call Anima at 718.855.9455. photo credit: Van Sias, Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Local

Who's On First: Root Stock at MLB's 'Fan Cave'

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 17:00:00 -0400
Root Stock is certainly known for having some of the most beautiful and creative assemblanges of green around town. Its gardens, plants and flowers have caught the attention of Henri Bendel, The Knot, HGTV, Methodist Hospital, The W Hotel, the Brooklyn Museum, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, The Society of Ethical Culture and the Berkley Carroll School, amongst a lot of others. Owner, John Rattigan has beautifully transformed many of the gardens of Fort Greene/ Clinton Hill. The team has created the floral arrangements at many wedding and other special events. What's up next? The Root Stock team is putting lovely holiday arrangements up at Major League Baseball's Fan Cave this week. Keep an eye on their page for pics! Root Stock is located at 471 Myrtle Avenue between Washington and Hall. They can be reached at 718.832.1888. photo: Root Stock

Five Spot Holds Rap Competition, Dec. 2nd Prelims

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:49:00 -0400
"Now what you hear is not a test, I'm rapping to the beat. Just me, the groove and my friends are going to try to move your feet." Haha, like that? Think you've got one better? Five Spot is holding a talent competition for rappers. If you think you got skills, if you think you got what it takes--show up. Freeway Ricky Ross Talent Search includes $100,000 in cash and prizes and a chance to be featured on the Ricky Ross movie soundtrack. China Doll hosts both nights. The prelims are on December 2nd (doors open at 8pm). The Semi-finals are on December 3rd (doors open at 8pm). Call 317.500.0222 or email china@ampstv.com for more details. Five Spot is located at 459 Myrtle Avenue, corner of Washington Avenue. For info about the talent show, call the number above. For info about about other upcoming events at Five Spot, to rent the space for your own event, to find out how you can perform at Five Spot or to find out what's on the menu or at the bar, call them at 718.852.0202. *Sugar Hill Gang lyrics

Myrtle Avenue Featured in this week's Crain's

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 11:05:00 -0400
This week's Crain's New York Business includes an article titled, 'Brooklyn Makes the Grade,' which highlights Pratt's role in the Avenue's development. The article gives a nod to Myrtle businesses and MARP also. Click here for the article.

Phat Tuesdays at Soco. It's HOT!

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 17:26:00 -0400
It's HOT! Guaranteed to warm you up on even the rainiest days. Join Soco every Tuesday for Phat Tuesdays (!), live jazz celebration featuring hot sounds, terrific drinks and delectable dinner specials. Doors open at 6pm. No cover. House Band: The Antonio Dangerfield Quartet and special guests. Soco is located at 509 Myrtle Avenue. Soco can be reached at 718.783.1936. image credit: Soco

Enterprising Pratt Alum on Myrtle

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:50:00 -0400
Pratt Institute recently featured several of their enterprising alumni in the university's monthly newsletter, Gateway. Some common links amongst them: they all own businesses on Myrtle Avenue (or just off Myrtle in the case of Luz restaurant) and they've all used some element of their Pratt education to build the successful businesses that we all love. Who are they? Pedro Munoz and Vivian Torres, owners of Luz Restaurant (177 Vanderbilt, just south of Myrtle), Ju Young Oh, owner of Barking Brown (469 Myrtle) and Byme Brooklyn (519 Myrtle), Gina Jankowski, owner of The Emerson (561 Myrtle), Vadim Kiyaev, owner of Pushkin Creperie Bakery (541 Myrtle) and curator/manager of Hadas Gallery, which adjoins Pushkin in the Absolute Building at 541 Myrtle, Joshua Stulman. Click here to check out the article. photo credit: Jonathan Weitz, Gateway Newsletter

Brooklyn Tap House is Hiring

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:08:00 -0400
Brooklyn Tap House, located at 590 Myrtle Avenue is hiring! The upcoming 7000sf indoor/outdoor alehouse and beer garden with the 'no crap on tap' slogan will feature 40 different beers on tap (with the capacity to expand to 100!). The business website states, "the finest beer, great food and and a nice comfortable environment with excellent service." Submit resumes and queries to info@BrooklynTapHouse.com. photo credit: Fort Greene-Clinton Hill Patch

Bon Swag: Dee & Ricky's Homecooking, Fashionable Food

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 15:23:00 -0400
Dee & Ricky's: new video, new Casio watch and menu deliciousness, stop in! "Fashionable food" is the slogan at Dee & Ricky's Homecooking. Quite fitting for the new restaurant which features classic great looking AND marvelous tasting (!) southern and Caribbean fare with a twist, inspired by the backgrounds of the restaurant owners. Menu additions like jerk lollipop drumsticks and jerk chicken nuggets, sorrel and gingerbeer (all very popular on the Dee & Ricky's menu) are inspired by owner, Alvin Wray's mom's homecooking. Catfish and grits, chicken and waffles and mac and cheese balls (also popular) give a nod to owners and identical twins, Dee & Ricky's grandma's cuisine. More on Dee & Ricky's Homecooking later this week. The 'fashionable' side of Dee & Ricky's restaurant is also directly connected to the fact that the twins are a fashion designing duo, known for their LEGO accessories and related designs. They've recently released the new Casio G-Shock GA-111DR-7AER watch. Freshness Magazine's website describes the watch this way: "The playful interpretation received a new all-white colorway, splashed with LEGO-centric primary colors around rings and other moving parts. In addition, a reverse LCD display for better time telling." Limited in availability, the Dee & Ricky x Casio G-Shock is available now. In response to the Casio G-Shock video, twins, Dee & Ricky, summed it up in two words on their Facebook page: 'Bon Swag.' Ah, we couldn't have said it better ourselves. Glad to have this new addition to the Avenue. Here's the video. Dee and Ricky's Homecooking is located at 505 Myrtle Avenue. Call the restaurant at 718.789.1111 for more information.

Karen's Body Beautiful: Big Sale + 'Ask Karen'

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:09:00 -0400
Karen's Body Beautiful kicked off a tremendous sale on Black Friday, which continued into Small Business Saturday and on to today, Cyber Monday. HURRY, the sale ends at midnight TONIGHT, 11/28. The sale? 30% off of everything in the store!! For online purchases, use coupon code 'Black Friday' at checkout. Also, don't forgot to stop in again tomorrow (11/29) to visit Karen's Body Beautiful's Facebook page for 'Ask Karen,' an opportunity to get your hair how-tos and product questions answered by Karen! 'Ask Karen' is live on Facebook tomorrow--and starts at 8pm. Karen's Body Beautiful is located at 436 Myrtle Avenue between Clinton and Waverly Avenues. Call 718.797.4808 for more info.

Small Business Saturday Press Conference in Fort Greene/Clinton Hill

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 15:53:00 -0400
Commissioner Rob Walsh of the NYC Department of Small Business Services visited Fort Greene/Clinton Hill last week for a Small Business Saturday press conference. Small Business Saturday is day dedicated to supporting small businesses on one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year. Commissioner Walsh is pictured above with Tamara McCaw of BAM (picture left) and Karen Tappin Saunderson of Myrtle Avenue business, Karen's Body Beautiful (picture right). The Fulton Areas Business (FAB) Alliance and the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership have partnered up to bring Small Business Saturday fun to the Fort Greene/Clinton Hill neighborhoods. Free trolley rides, in-store Myrtle Avenue and Fulton Street specials, Santa Claus, musicians, a shopping sweepstakes and more are taking place on Small Business Saturday, 11/26. photo: NYC Department of Small Business Services

Small Business Saturday at Green in BKLYN, 11/26

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 15:52:00 -0400
Lots brewing at Green in BKLYN for Small Business Saturday. Free Pangea Organics' 6x Award Winning Facial Mask or their balancing oil to customers throughout the day. Holiday wish list will be available for pick up, listing gift suggestions for the men, women and children in our lives. Lots of great gift items available, including "the Beer Making Book" and kits from the Brooklyn Brew Shop; Brooklyn-based Reclaimed Leather Zip Bags from Baggu; Voltaic solar-powered bags for laptops, iPads and other electronic items; Brooklyn-based Common Good refillable cleaning products; MUNY cotton quilts designed in Brooklyn and made in Mumbai. Green in BKLYN is located at 432 Myrtle Avenue between Clinton and Waverly and can be reached at 718.855.4383.

Utrecht Art Supply Store is Hiring !

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 13:46:00 -0400
Utrecht, the soon to open Myrtle Avenue art supplies store located on Myrtle Avenue between Steuben and Grand in the LEED-certified Myrtle Hall, is hiring. Call 212.777.5353 to inquire about cashier, sales associate and other positions.

The Bakery in Brooklyn Paper article + continues toward re-open goal

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 13:01:00 -0400
Adrienne Braxton is still on a mission to reach her goal of baking pies to save her beloved business. Please read recent Brooklyn Papers article by Colin Mixon here. Closed down by the Department of Health months ago for an expired permit, Adrienne is determined to raise funds to re-open to cover the costs of the DoH fine plus the mounting rent debt for having to close her doors. Specializing in all things baked, including homemade breads and confections like raspberry rugelach, classic pound cakes, gingerbread cookies, almond tortes, blueberry tarts, apple pies, fresh handcrafted breads and cinnamon rolls, the bakery will offer pies only in this special bootstrapping effort of determination and endurance. The concise holiday menu includes pecan pies ($23) and sweet potato pies ($20). Please call Adrienne at 347.384.2275 or krumbsbakery154@gmail.com to place your order today. Adrienne will rent kitchen incubator space to bake the pies, but will be at the bakery today and on Small Business Saturday, 11/26 to take additional orders. Please stop in and help this much-loved bakery to reopen. The Bakery is located at 154 Vanderbilt Avenue between Myrtle and Willoughby. Stop in this Saturday between 10am-4pm to place an order.

An evening with author Colson Whitehead @ SJC

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 16:40:00 -0400
St. Joseph's College just sent this over to us. Author Colson Whitehead will be leading a talk called "How to Write and the Art of Writing" on Wednesday, November 30th at 6pm at Tuohy Hall (245 Clinton Avenue). It's free!

Brooklyn Stone Boutique Offers Major Small Biz Saturday Savings, 11/26

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:03:00 -0400
Major in-store promotions at Brooklyn Stone Boutique on both Friday and Small Business Saturday, 11/26. Small Business Saturday is Saturday, November 26th. Free trolley will be looping around to your fave stores on Fulton Street and Myrtle Avenue. Arrive at Brooklyn Stone Boutique early on Saturday as holiday bargains start at a whopping 50% off purchase price but discount decreases every two hours--so get there early. Best way to navigate it for big savings is doorbuster style! Holiday dresses, shirts, pants, dresses, blouses and shirts, shoes, jewelry and accessories--come out and see the full beautiful range of gifts and other items available at Brooklyn Stone Boutique. Brooklyn Stone Boutique is located at 366 Myrtle Avenue between Chermont and Adelphi and can be reached at 347.763.2041. photo: Brooklyn Stone Boutique (sequined off the shoulder holiday dress)

Brian Lehrer Live @ Pratt on Dec. 8th

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 13:22:00 -0400
Join NPR radio host, Brian Lehrer live at Pratt on December 8th at 6pm for a panel discussion on school choice. The event is free and open to the public, but RSVP is required. The event will take place at Pratt's Memorial Hall, 200 Willoughby Avenue. Read more details here. photo: Brian Lehrer

Beauty Brunch at the Polish Bar of Brooklyn on Small Biz Saturday, 11/26

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:43:00 -0400
Have you stopped in to experience the renovations at Polish Bar of Brooklyn? Please do--it's fabulous! New bright white walls, plushy brown velvet couch at pedicure station, silver chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. And there's more to come! Small Business Saturday is Saturday, November 26th. Free trolley will be looping around to your fave stores on Fulton Street and Myrtle Avenue. The Polish Bar of Brooklyn will host an in-store 'Beauty Brunch' from 11am-4pm. Sounds like a lovely treat for self, friends or family. Meet the Polish Bar's Pro Beauty Team. A free gift will be given with appointment. The Polish Bar of Brooklyn is located at 470 Myrtle Avenue. For additional details call: 718.622.5363.

MARP's Holiday Fundraiser at Putnam's Pub & Cooker is on Wed, Dec 7th!

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 18:29:00 -0400
It's time to come to Myrtle Avenue for the holidays, from Small Business Saturday on November 26th, to the start of the Holiday Windows Contest on December 3rd, to the annual holiday fundraiser on December 7th. This year's holiday fundraiser is at Putnam's Pub & Cooker (419 Myrtle), from 5:30 to 7:30pm, where you'll have open bar and your favorite holiday cocktails, live music sponsored by our friends at ConEdison, and lots of great food from Putnam's menu. We really hope all of our friends and neighbors can join us this year to take in the holiday cheer.

Tickets are only $30/person or $50/couple (all drinks, food, and music included!) if bought by December 6th at HelpersUnite.com or at http://tinyurl.com/MyrtleHolidays2011. (It's $35/person on December 7th or at the door)

Hope to see you there! And happy holidays!

Small Biz Saturday is Nov. 26th: Trolley Loops Myrtle + Fulton!

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:33:00 -0400
The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership and the Fulton Street Area Business Alliance (FAB) are EXCITED to be participating jointly in Small Business Saturday. Small Business Saturday is Saturday, November 26th! Are you ready? Join in on the fun from 10:00a 6:00p! Santas coming, the free trolley is set, musicians are singing, Myrtle and Fulton business specials and in-store events are brewing! All for the BIG event: Please come out and join in the Small Business Saturday fun! Check out the trolley mapto hop on, hop off and join in the Fort Greene and Clinton Hill neighborhood fun! The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership is partnering with the FAB Alliance to jointly sponsor festivities along Myrtle Avenue and Fulton Street in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. The fun starts at 10a and continues the day long til 6p. A nationwide celebration, the 2nd annual Small Business Saturday Small Business Saturday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses on one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year. One of the things that makes Fort Greene and Clinton Hill so wonderful is the diverse array of locally-owned small businesses. And this is your chance to make a statement of support for the business owners, staffs and their families who contribute so much to what makes the area vibrant. There will be events, activities, music, treats and free trolley rides all day. FREE TROLLEY - 10am-6pm SANTA RIDES THE TROLLEY - 11am-3pm There will be a free trolley traveling along Myrtle and Fulton Street and back again from 10am-6pm (check out the route map!). Bring the kids because SANTA will be riding the trolley from 11am-3pm. Bring the family because shopping local matters. GET UPDATES ON ACTIVITIES, EVENTS AND SANTA'S WHEREABOUTS Like both organizations on Facebook (Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership and FAB Fulton and also follow FAB on Twitter to keep up-to-date on activities, events and ho ho ho, Santas whereabouts.

Help to make farm-fresh food part of Thanksgiving meals for neighbors in need!

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 09:35:00 -0400
Just a friendly reminder ... only 1 week left until Thanksgiving! That's just 7 days to reach our goal of $600!

Our partners at the Ingersoll Community Center (operated by University Settlement) are preparing a hot meal for 100 local residents in need this Thanksgiving. In a project they're calling "Pay it Forward", they've reached out to local residents and organizations to join their effort by donating resources, food, beverages, supplies and time to make sure our neighbors have a delicious and nutritious meal this Thanksgiving. We've stepped up to raise $600 to provide fresh ingredients from our local farm stand partner, Glebocki Farms, and a few supplies. These funds will purchase seasonal produce like squash, carrots, red potatoes, onions, apples, and greens for the event. A team of volunteer cooks will prepare Thanksgiving favorites using these ingredients. In the holiday spirit of giving, will you help us donate fresh food items for a community Thanksgiving dinner at our local community center, right here on Myrtle Avenue?

Donating is simple. Just visit our project page on HelpersUnite.com. Here's to a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!

Enjoy Thanksgiving @ Maggie Brown !

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 12:24:00 -0400
Enjoy a mouthwatering Thanksgiving meal at Maggie Brown Restaurant on Thursday, November 24th from 3p to 10p. Relax for Turkey Day, they will do the work for you. Menu details coming soon, or call them soon for the delectable details. Maggie Brown is located at 455 Myrtle Avenue between Washington and Waverly. They can be reached at 718.643.7001.

Jive Turkey: What's Your Flavor?

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 12:04:00 -0400
Always wanted to try a particular flavor turkey at Jive Turkey before investing in the whole bird? Jive Turkey has 15 flavors on the menu and they've been offering individual portion size tastings for purchase every Saturday since September. Peking, Vidalia Onion, Cajun, BBQ, Cranberry Red Wine, Jamaican Jerk, Orange Zinfandel, Fresh Herb, Mexican Mole and Roasted Garlic tastings, yummmm! Next up on Saturday, November 19th -- Lemon Pepper. Lemon Pepper has a wonderful hint of lemon with the zest of freshly ground black pepper flavors. Stop in or call Jive Turkey today to find out about ordering Thanksgiving dinner--the whole bird as well as side dishes are available. Lunch and dinner options are also available 365 days of the year. Check out the daily menu. Jive Turkey is located at 570 Myrtle Avenue (between Emerson and Classon). Please call the store at 718.797.1688 for further detail, or just stop in!

Author, Colson Whitehead to speak @ St. Joseph's College on 11/30

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:00:00 -0400
Acclaimed writer, Colson Whitehead to speak at St. Joseph's College on Wednesday, November 30 in the Tuohy Hall Auditorium at 6pm. The lecture is entitled "How to Write and the Art of Writing." The event is free and open to the public. Colson Whitehead's lecture is the inaugural lecture in the Brooklyn Voices series of events at the Brooklyn Campus. According to St. Joseph's, "the aim of the Brooklyn Voices series is to promote and enhance the creative vitality of our home neighborhoods of Fort Greene and Clinton Hill by providing local writers, artists and intellectuals with a forum in which to discuss and present their works to our neighbors, patrons and students. Through lectures, forums, performances, and public discussion, Brooklyn Voices seeks to make a meaningful contribution to the thriving intellectual culture of the neighborhood and ensure that our community remains a stimulating place in which to live, learn, and do business." Read more here. Photo: Frank Lojciechowski

Help to make farm-fresh food part of Thanksgiving meals for neighbors in need!

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 10:13:00 -0400
Our partners at the Ingersoll Community Center (operated by University Settlement) are preparing a hot meal for 100 local residents in need this Thanksgiving. In a project they're calling "Pay it Forward", they've reached out to local residents and organizations to join their effort by donating resources, food, beverages, supplies and time to make sure our neighbors have a delicious and nutritious meal this Thanksgiving. We've stepped up to raise $600 to provide fresh ingredients from our local farm stand partner, Glebocki Farms, and a few supplies. These funds will purchase seasonal produce like squash, carrots, red potatoes, onions, apples, and greens for the event. A team of volunteer cooks will prepare Thanksgiving favorites using these ingredients. In the holiday spirit of giving, will you help us donate fresh food items for a community Thanksgiving dinner at our local community center, right here on Myrtle Avenue?

Donating is simple. Just visit our project page on HelpersUnite.com. Here's to a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!

Bike Share Open House @ Red Lantern Bicycles, Thursday, 11/17

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 20:34:00 -0400
NYC Bike Share Open House on Thursday, 11/17 from 5p-8p at Red Lantern Bicycles, 345 Myrtle Avenue. Please join us to view the bikes and provide feedback before the program launches in Summer 2012. What is Bike Share? Bike Share is a new form of urban mobility: a self serve bicycle transport system available for public use at a low daily, weekly, or annual charge. Bike Share stations are located every few blocks and operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Bicycles may be returned to any station anywhere in the system. Red Lantern is located at 345 Myrtle between Carlton and Adelphi. They can be reached at 347.889.5338.

Home & U: Gifts, Holiday Fun & Stocking Stuffers

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 14:06:00 -0400
BIG board game fanatic over here! Anyone else out there EXCITED to learn about Home & U's plethora of affordable gifts, stocking stuffers and board games for friend and family funnnn, including the Monopoly game above for only $3.99. Yep, $3.99! Stop in and get yours today. While there, check out the other affordable gift and home items, including pjs, starting at $3.99; dress and sports socks, starting at $.99; toys, dolls, potpourri, new colorful shower curtains, rugs, towels, serving dishes and other board games like chess and backgammon, also $3.99 each. Home & U is located at 394 Myrtle between Clermont and Vanderbilt Avenue. Call them at 718.243.9265 for more info.

Grand Opening Celebration at Shic Hair, Nail & Beauty Bar on Sunday, 11/13

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 21:05:00 -0400
Grand Opening Celebration at Shic Nail, Hair & Beauty Bar on Sunday, 11/13 from 2p-5p. Join Shic by Soketah for an afternoon of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and fun! 15% off all Redken beauty products. 10% off all Fiji beauty products. Book an appointment for a future date and receive 20% off. Great time to purchase that gift for your self or for a friend-- hair, manicures, pedicures, makeup, massages. Enter raffles for a chance to win over $200 in beauty services. A portion of all of the grand opening afternoon sales will be donated to Brooklyn Young Mothers' Collective (BYMC). BYMC provides ongoing case management and education advocacy services to disadvantaged young mothers to ensure that young mothers experience educational success and self-sufficiency. Receive a free Express design manicure of Express eye makeup application and gift bag with a donation of $10 or more in support of the Brooklyn Young Mother's Collective. Shic by Soketah is a 1500sf beauty bar deluxe, owned by Keisha Farrell, Sonia Lashley, Kristal Thomas and Jamilla Martin. The space is perfect for regular pampering sessions and is also equipped to handle group or private events such as birthdays, girls night out, corporate events, bridal parties and special occasions. Inquire about customized packages and special rates for group bookings. Shic is located at 564 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Classon (across the street from Soketah Salon). Please call Shic at 718.875.6845 for a hair, nails or massage appointment or further information. For further info, please contact: host@3girlsbeauty.com

$1 Drinks + Free Music: The Emerson's 1 Year Anniversary

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 20:28:00 -0400
Wishing The Emerson a happy 1st anniversary on this coming Veteran's Day!! Dollar drinks, live music, pool tournament. Celebrate from 12midnight to 4am on Friday. Oh yeah!! Dollar drinks, a pool tournament, and live music in one place with no cover sounds pretty good to us. This is the 1 year anniversary party of The Emerson. Live Music Hosted by Paper Garden Records 3:30 - Stephanie Carlin 4:30 - Howth 8:00 - Swear & Shake 8:30 - The City and Horses The Emerson's favorite DJs 5:30 -Ahficionados 10:00pm -TBA Special Guest 11:00pm- ROCK-L 1:00am- Mickey Perez 2:00am- Lip Dance on over! The Emerson is located at 561 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Classon. They can be reach by phone at 347.763.1310.

Secret (kinda!) Sale @ Brooklyn Stone Boutique this weekend!

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 20:21:00 -0400
Never missing the opportunity to offer fashion and bargains, Brooklyn Stone Boutique holds a secret sale this weekend. Expanding the store staff by 2, there's an upcoming sale each day of the weekend--yep, both Saturday (November 12) and Sunday (November 13). So, grab some friends--and stop in! What's so secret about this sale?? You MUST know and use the "secret code"! Hopefully we won't get in touch for posting. Brooklyn Stone Boutique is located at 366 Myrtle Avenue between Adelphi and Clermont and can be reached by telephone at: 347.763.2041. Saturday's secret code is 'kiyomi'. Take 10% off full priced merchandise (excluding independent designer items) and an additional 15% off already reduced merchandise. Sunday's secret code is 'sheryl'. Take 10% off full priced merchandise (excluding independent designer items) and an ADDITIONAL 15% off already reduced merchandise.

Building 92 at the Brooklyn Navy Yard Opens on Veteran's Day

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:56:00 -0400
The much-anticipated opening of Building 92 at the Brooklyn Navy Yard is this Friday, Veteran's Day. Building 92, the Navy Yard's museum and historic center in it's 4 floors features a visitor's center, resource center, gallery and cafe. Building 92 is open Wednesday thru Sunday, 12p-6p. Walking, bus and bike tours are available. Free admission this opening weekend and lots planned this opening 11/11/11 Veteran's Day weekend, including looping shuttle bus between Building 92 and Jay Street subway station, family fun, prizes and giveaways. Building 92 is located at 63 Flushing Avenue. Read more here. pic from the Bldg92.com website

Beer Tasting @ Khim's Millenium Market

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 15:58:00 -0400
Khim's Millenium Market at 536 Myrtle to host a beer tasting on Saturday, 11/12 from 4p-6p. The beer tasting will feature Blue Point Beer. Blue Point is brewed locally, Long Island's only microbrewery. Khim's Millenium Market is open 24-hours. They have a wide variety of grocery products as well as separate fresh salad and soft serve ice cream and frozen yogurt counters. Khim's Millenium Market is located at 536 Myrtle Avenue between Steuben and Grand in the Myrtle Hall building. Please call them at: 718.230.0788.

The Bakery That Could: 1000 Pies for the Holidays

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 10:08:00 -0400
It's been four months since The Bakery (also known as 'Krumbs') at 154 Vanderbilt Avenue, was closed down by the Department of Health for an expired permit. There is not much that can quell the entrepreneurial spirit. Determined to re-open by raising funds to cover the costs of the DoH fine plus the mounting rent debt for having to close her doors, Bakery owner, Adrienne Braxton has devised a plan to sell over 1000 pies this holiday season. "I did the math and it can work," stated Adrienne. "I know that that's a lot of pies, but I'm determined to roll up my sleeves and make this work for my family and my business," she continued. Specializing in all things baked, including homemade breads and confections like raspberry rugelach, classic pound cakes, gingerbread cookies, almond tortes, blueberry tarts, apple pies, fresh handcrafted breads and cinnamon rolls, the bakery will offer pies only in this special bootstrapping effort of determination and endurance. Check out more of Adrienne's story here. Adrienne will rent kitchen incubator space to bake the pies, but will be at the bakery this Saturday (10a-4p) to take orders. Please stop in and help this much-loved bakery to reopen. Pecan pies are $23. Sweet potato pies are $20. Adrienne can be reached at 347.384.2275 or krumbsbakery154@gmail.com. The Bakery is located at 154 Vanderbilt Avenue between Myrtle and Willoughby. Stop in this Saturday between 10am-4pm to place an order.

Take a 360 tour of the "Soundwaves" mural under the BQE!

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:24:00 -0400
Cross-posting this cool 360-degree tour of the Soundwaves mural under the BQE by artist Ellie Balk. Check it out by clicking here.

Brooklyn's 2012 Extraordinary Women

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 11:45:00 -0400
The office of District Attorney Hynes annually honors 'Brooklyn's 2012 Extraordinary Women.' Deadline to nominate your candidates for this honor is January 17, 2012. Click here for more information and an application.

Mojito Cuban Cuisine Offers Living Social Deal!

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:46:00 -0400
Savor the flavors of Cuba at Mojito Cuban Cuisine. Living Social offer is $20 for $40 worth of authentic Cuban fare at Mojito Cuban Cuisine. Check it out here. Stop in for brunch, lunch or dinner! A variety delectable menu items from which to choose, including fried sweet plantain, shredded, braised short ribs in tomato sauce with sauteed onion, olives and bell peppers; chicken and potatoes stew in tomato sauce with sauteed onions and peppers; fried marinated pork chops with sauteed onions and peppers; pressed sandwiches and many other both meat and vegetarian selections. Bar items include aged rum, wine, sangria, daiquiris and of course mojitos. Choose by the glass or by the carafe. Mojito Cuban Cuisine is located at 82 Washington Avenue between Park and Flushing. They can be reached at 718.797.3100. photo credit: Mojito Cuban Cuisine

Many Ideas for Improving Park Avenue Safety

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:40:00 -0400
Over 50 people were in attendance at last night's Park Avenue Safety Workshop. Everyone had a lot to say about which blocks and which intersections on Park Avenue along the BQE were the least safe, and even more to say about how the city could make improvements. Attendees split into 5 different groups, representing 5 different geographic areas of Park Avenue from west to east, so participants were able to discuss the very specific issues and challenges affecting each block and how to make them safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.

The goal of this workshop was to identify, prioritize, and locate specific enhancements that will improve pedestrian safety and calm vehicular traffic on Park Avenue between Navy Street and Steuben Street. Given the number of students that are crossing Park to and from school, and the number of residents that are living on Park or adjacent to it, improving safety needs to be prioritized by city agencies.

This workshop was the first step in creating a community-based plan that can be used to advocate for important changes, both short-term and long-term. A special thanks to Architecture for Humanity New York for putting in countless hours to prepare for and facilitate the workshop, and to now help pull together everyone's ideas into the makings of a draft plan.

Stay tuned for the scheduling of additional meetings where these preliminary findings and ideas will be presented.

Help improve pedestrian safety on Park Avenue! TODAY

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 17:05:00 -0400
Have you ever tried to cross Park Avenue in Fort Greene or Clinton Hill? If so, you may have walked for blocks to find a safe crossing, or maybe you just decided to dodge speeding traffic. We're sure you've though to yourself, 'shouldn't this street be safer for pedestrians?' Well, we agree. It should be safer!

We've held three previous workshops about the area under and around the elevated BQE in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, and safety was the primary concern at each of them. Have something to share about safety on Park Avenue? Join your neighbors at this workshop!

Park Avenue Pedestrian Safety Workshop Thursday, November 3rd 6-8:30pm Benjamin Banneker Academy (71-77 Clinton Avenue @ Park)

The goal of this workshop is to identify, prioritize, and locate specific enhancements that will improve pedestrian safety and calm vehicular traffic on Park Avenue between Navy Street and Steuben Street. Given the number of students that are crossing Park to and from school, and the number of residents that are living on Park or adjacent to it, we feel that improving safety should be prioritized by city agencies. This workshop is the first step in creating a community-based plan that we can use to advocate for important changes, both short-term and long-term. Architecture for Humanity will be assisting with workshop facilitation and development of the plan.

Hope you can make it! Email dan@myrtleavenue.org or call 718-230-1689 if you have any questions. Download the workshop flyer here.

RePOP wins Village Voice 'Best Vintage Furniture Shop' Award

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 10:57:00 -0400
RePOP, the Wallabout-based vintage furniture store, recently won a Village Voice Best Of Award in the category of 'Best Vintage Furniture' for the year. The Village Voice article states, "amble through its spacious warehouse to find such gems as an incredibly creepy Victorian-era medical examination chair, a 1950s glowing Mountain Dew clock, and a curious assortment of tiki masks." The award-winning shop, which recently celebrated its 5th anniversary, has much notoriety, winning past best of vintage furniture awards and mentions in TimeOut New York, Apartment Therapy and Design*Sponge. The shop is also featured in the book, 'The New York Best Of Shops' by Ranjani Gopalarathinam. Check out RePOP's interior design and home-rearrangement services also. The shop is hailed for its amazing and recent interior work (repurposed and vintage interiors) for Nitehawk Cinemas in Williamsburg. RePOP is located at 68 Washington Avenue between Park and Flushing. The shop can be reached at 718.260.8032.

Red Apple Supermarket - Now Open!

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 10:39:00 -0400
As of Monday, the Red Apple Supermarket on Myrtle and Ashland is officially open! Welcome to the avenue! The community is buzzing about the store. Hear what people had to say on this News12 piece.

Have you been by yet? What do you think?

Billo's 99 Cent Plus, Stop In!

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:47:00 -0400
Billo's 99 Cent Plus is a cornucopia of products and of savings, stop in today! Billo's now carries CFL lightbulbs for $1.99. Billo Diallo purchased the 99c store at 480 Myrtle more than 5 years ago and since then has been all about having useful products that customers want on hand. As a go-to store on the Avenue, Billo carries a wide range of products, including school supplies, party supplies, kitchen and household cleaning supplies, laundry products, shopping carts, rain gear, music accessories, CFLs (!) and hey, you name it--it's there. Billo also has a very extensive collection of African film, including several Nollywood classics. "I'm waiting to highlight film from Guinea one day," shared Billo, about his country of birth." Billo's 99 Cent Plus is located at 480 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. You can reach the store at 917.345.5674.

Project Safe Surrender Returns, Dec. 2 & 3

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 11:57:00 -0400
Project Safe Surrender returns. Project Safe Surrender is an opportunity for those with warrants or C-summonses (see list below or call for more information) to have them lifted and their cases adjudicated in a safe environment. As the project states, "this is not a pardon, but rather a solution that is favorable." Project Safe Surrender will take place on December 2 and 3 at Mt. Sion Baptist Church, which is located at 365 Ralph Avenue, corner of Pacific. Please contact Anita Alexander at 718.388.3900xt.46 or anita@projectsafesurrender2011.org for further information. If you have a warrant or c-summons for the following, come out:

littering
unleashed dog
failure to have a dog license
animal nuisance
unlawful possession of alcohol under age 21
consumption of alcohol in public
spitting
riding a bicycle on the sidewalk
unlawful possession of handcuffs
trespassing
loitering
disorderly conduct
making unreasonable noise
aggressive solicitation
unlawfully in a park after hours
failure to comply with posted signs in park

Art Show and Reception: Tuesday at Connecticut Muffin

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 11:26:00 -0400
Meet artist Tarra Rehounek on Tuesday, November 1st at Connecticut Muffin (423 Myrtle Avenue)! She will be showcasing her patterned designs and greeting cards (also for sale) from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Light refreshments will be served, so grab a cup of coffee and enjoy!

Wicked Good Franks Grand Opening on Saturday, 10/29!

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 19:59:00 -0400
Wicked Good Franks grand opening celebration to take place on Saturday, 10/29 from 12p-6p! Tastings and giveaways throughout the day, Frankendog competition will be going strong-competitors must eat 2 in 15 minutes! Wicked Good Franks features hot dogs and sausages with any number of amazing, gourmet toppings. Both meat and vegetarian options are available. The owners, husband and wife team, Bruno and Kimberly Iannotta will be on deck. Come out, join the fun! Wicked Good Franks is located at 579 Myrtle Avenue. They can be reached at 718.398.2000.

Halloween on Myrtle + Beyond: BOO!!

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 19:21:00 -0400
Halloween is always a blast on Myrtle Avenue. It falls on a Monday this year, leaving quite a wide variety of fun, fun, fun options. Hey, you can do a little monster boogie on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and&Monday (!) if you want. Keep it low key or opt to rev things up. Adult-, child- and family- friendly options available. Hope to see you on the Avenue: enjoy! Trilok Fusion Center for Arts & Education (Sunday) Trilok Fusion Center for Arts & Education hosts its first annual Halloween Festival on Sunday from 1p-6p. Free admission. Pony rides, bouncy castle, games, face painting, costume parade, food by local vendors and much more! Gift basket raffle to raise funds for their childrens international travel program. Halloween Festival to take place in the Trilok Fusion Center for Arts & Education lot at Myrtle-Waverly corner. Trilok Fusion Center for Arts & Education can be reached at: 718.797.1700. Just Because Salon (throughout Halloween week) Drop by Just Because Salon for a glimpse of old-fashioned holiday window dressing. Frightful skeleton chillin in the window. Dont let all of the owners creative work go unnoticedcheck it out. Swing by with the kids! Just Because Salon is located at 141 Carlton Avenue and can be reached at 718.722.7810. Polish Bar of Brooklyn (Saturday) Polish Bar of Brookyn makeup artist, Rebecca Casciano will be doing makeup for Halloween for women, men and children on Saturday from 1p-6p. Yes, its true, come on out to Polish to get those finishing touches before you head out trick-or-treating or to that Halloween bash. Halloween makeup special to take place at Polish Bars Prospect Heights location. Call for more details: 718.622.5363. Dope Jams (Saturday into Sunday) Dope Jams 4th Annual Halloween Costume Ball from 10p until 6am. The guys at Dope Jams really, and we mean like reallllly get into Halloween, and this years Halloween is no different. Its time for Dope Jams 4th Annual Costume Ball and party (from the Dope Jams guys: were ecstatic at the prospect of once again tossing aside any semblance of false reality, adorning the mask of absurdity affirmed, and convening the freaks for an all-out-intoxicated-free-for-all of massive hedonistic proportions that will be Dope Jams' 4th Annual Costume Ball.). Well now. Costumes are strongly encouraged. Click here for more details. Dope Jams is located at 580 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.622.7977. Luz (Monday) Enjoy Halloween fright films that will be looped and streaming at Luz. Come dressed in your costume and get a free glass of sangria. Kids dressed in costume get free ice cream, yum. Luz is located at 177 Vanderbilt Avenue, just south of Myrtle. Call for more details: 718.246.4000. Maggie Brown (Saturday) Maggie Brown will be giving away candy and a free spooky shot to those in costume (and over 21)! Maggie Brown is located at 455 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.643.7001. Five Spot Soul Food & Supper Club (Sunday and Monday nights) Five Spot will be hosting two costume parties. Yes, you heard correctly -- TWO! Also, during the day on Monday, kids can stop by to pick up more for their candy stashes, starting at 3! Five Spot is located at 459 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.852.0202. Rope (Monday) Costume party at Rope on Monday. Starts at 10 pm. $100 first prize for best costume! Rope is located at 415 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.522.2899. The Emerson (Saturday and Sunday) Saturday and Sunday, Pumpkin Carving and Painting by day + Happy Hour from 2p-7p. Parents and other adults participating in backyard pumpkin carving and artwork get 2-for-1 draft and well drinks. Bring your kids, a pumpkin and some supplies if you have. The Emerson will provide some supplies. Also by night on Saturday from 10p-3am Show Me Your Pumpkins! Halloween Party and Costume Contest $4 Pumpkin Ale on draft, $4 Halloween Cocktail. Bring a small painted or carved pumpkin and get a FREE drink! Best Costume wins $100 Cash and $50 Bar Tab. 2nd Place $50 bar tab. The Emerson is located at 561 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 347.763.1310. Touché (Friday and Saturday) Costume parties. Party it up to your hearts content for two nights! Touche Lounge hosts Uber Friday and a satisfying Saturday. Skunkworks Entertainment presents Uber Fridays Nightmare on Washington Avenue. Monsters Ball: The Revenge on Saturday. $10 w/RSVP til 12midnight. Email to theblockRSVP@gmail.com to reserve a space. Doors open at 9pm both nights. Touche Lounge is located at 46 Washington Avenue. Call for more details: 917.208.0641. Putnams Pub & Cooker (Saturday into Sunday) Putnams 1st annual Halloween party and costume contest on Saturday from 10p-4p! 1st prize-$200. Second prize is a $50 bar tab. 3rd prize is a $20 bar tab. Free entry! Free Halloween shot when you register! DJ Max Power at the turntablehey, hey. Putnams is located at 419 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 347.799.2382. Mojito Cuban Cuisine (Monday) Happy Hour 2-for-1 drinks all day on Halloween. Mojito Cuban Cuisine is located at 82 Washington Avenue. Call for more details: 718.797.3100. Myrtle Car Service (Monday) Myrtle Car is candy central once again. Stop in for all your favorite candies on Monday. If you can find it at the candy store, you can find it at Myrtle Car on Halloween as they take the day quite seriously. You wont be disappointed by the growth of your candy stash. Myrtle Car Service is located at 525 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.230.8100. Los Pollitos III (Monday) Costume contest at Los Pollitos III. Raffles to win 'dinner for two' prizes. Los Pollitos promises discounts so deep on the sangria that it will be like giving it away. Los Pollitos III is located at 499 Myrtle Avenue. Call for more details: 718.636.6125. Brooklyn Public Library, Walt Whitman Branch (Monday) Kids party at the Whitman Branch. Call for time. The one-story Walt Whitman Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library has a separate childrens room and internet access. The branch is wheelchair-accessible. The Whitman Branch is located at 93 St. Edwards Street between Myrtle and Park. Call for details: 718.935.0244. 17th Annual Halloween Walk (Monday) Bring your trick-or-treaters for a fun time at the 17th Annual Halloween Walk sponsored by the Society for Clinton Hill. The walk begins at the Pratt-Clinton Hill Community Garden on the corner of Hall Street and DeKalb Avenue. The Halloween Walk starts at 5pm and ends at 6:30pm on Sunday, rain or shine. Trick-or-treating maps will be provided. Parents and guardians are asked accompany their children for the entire Walk. The Brooklyn Halloween Show (Monday) The Brooklyn Halloween Show is held at 227 Waverly Avenue (between Dekalb and Willoughby). Oct. 31 at 6:30, 7 and 7:30 p.m. This is part of the Clinton Hill Halloween Walk. Pick up a map of selected houses for candy and decorations. Halloween Festival (Sunday) The Fort Greene Park Conservancy Halloween Festival, 12-3 pm, in the park. This event includes games, entertainment, face painting, costume parade and a slew of free pumpkins for kids of all ages. The Great PUPkin Dog Costume Contest (Sunday) Fort Greene PUPS presents The Great PUPkin Dog Costume Contest, registration at 11:30, judging at noon 1 pm. Takes place on the steps of the Monument for observers and on the lower terrace for the dogs (in costume.) 313 Clinton Avenue presents 'A Grimm Scarytale' (Monday) 313 Clinton presnts their adventurous take on Hansel & Gretel. Show runs every 30 minutes between 5 8 pm. The street will be closed off and multiple homes will be participating. (photo: Maggie Brown Halloween decorated window, 2008)

Red Apple Supermarket to open on Monday, 10/31, 7am!

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 13:42:00 -0400
We just got word that Red Apple Supermarket at Myrtle and Ashland will be opening bright and early Monday morning at 7am. Opening day will include a ribbon cutting at 9:30am, so come on out and enjoy the festivities!

The new store hours will be M-Sa from 7a-10p and Sundays from 7a-9p.

MARP has been working closely with FUREE, District Leader Lincoln Restler, and Council Member Tish James, over the last 9 months or so to help ensure that the new Red Apple Supermarket will be responsive to the needs of the local community in terms of affordability, product mix, accessibility, and employment opportunities. Part of this effort included a very successful job fair held on September 25th at the Ingersoll Community Center, where 55 local residents were hired, including one of MARP's former summer YEMP students. Be sure to come by on Monday or in the coming days and weeks to see what we hope will be very positive results from this collaborative effort.

Update: Just In!
RAVIOLIFICIO LO SCOIATTOLO, Italys third largest fresh pasta manufacturer will make its Brooklyn debut on Monday, October 31st @ the Red Apple Supermarket 218 Myrtle Avenue in the Andrea apartment building from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Lo Scoiattolo has never been sold in the United States before and this is the first time for a store in Brooklyn. Free tastings will be made available.

Pillow Cafe Offers Amazon Deal!

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 15:11:00 -0400
Pillow Cafe offers Amazon deal: For $10, receive $20 to spend toward delicious food and drink! Alright, here's what you do, walk through the beautiful blue historic storefront entrance where you'll immediately feel like you're home, then take it all in. Choose to sit at the bar or at any of the open seat options. Enjoy the artwork, inhale the perfect expresso and place your order. Place your order for any of the smooth and amazing drinks or delicious heavy hitting, lite-bites on the menu, like sandwiches, salads, pastries, wraps. Yep, seriously! Time's running out on this deal--click here! Pillow Cafe is located at 505 Myrtle Avenue between Ryerson and Grand. Please call them at 718.246.2711.

Gnarly Vines Featured in Edible Brooklyn

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 11:50:00 -0400
Brian Robinson, owner of Gnarly Vines, the Myrtle Avenue-based wine shop, is featured in the Fall 2011 edition of edibleBrooklyn. The article, titled, Mr. Robinson's Neighborhood, discusses Brian's non-traditional route to the world of wine, the range and depth of his experiences in the wine world, his love of Fort Greene and his customers and his suppport of local businesses. Gnarly Vines is located at 350 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi and can be reached at: 718.797.3183.

Brooklyn Public Library Amnesty on fines thru October 31st

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 18:05:00 -0400
Through October 31, children and teens who have fines on their library cards can ask to have them waived. If you are a child or teen who owes fines, has long overdue material, or has lost library material, you can visit any Brooklyn Public Library location and ask for the fines to be waived. logo from the BPL website.

Nelson Rivas Mural almost complete at Trilok

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 16:18:00 -0400
The Nelson Rivas mural going up at Trilok Fusion Center for Arts & Education is almost ready. Nelson Rivas, a Brooklyn-based artist, who also goes by the name 'Cekis', is a highly sought after artist, painting murals internationally. The Trilok Center for Arts & Education lot is located at the corner of Myrtle and Waverly. Stay tuned for more information about the mural, the artist and the upcoming artist's recepton at Trilok.

Hookah Lounge for 521 Myrtle

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 13:56:00 -0400
You've probably noticed the dumpster outside 521 and all of the work being done to ready the space. A new hookah lounge is coming! The contractors say they are committed to working day and night to be open by the beginning of next month. The lounge is sandwiched between Byme Brooklyn and the space the former pharmacy there used for storage. It's near the corner of Grand.

Glam Day @ Soketah on 10/30 !

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 16:02:00 -0400
Customer apprection day at Soketah Hair Salon! It's called 'Glam Day 2011,' and will take place on October 30! Drop in for free styling and product advice. Discounted rates on all hairstyling services (call in advance for details). Free makeup advice and makeovers, lashes and eyebrow services will be available all day until 4:30pm. Jewelry vendors will be on site. Food and refreshments will be served. Hair--check. Makeup--check. Good times--check. Glam--check, check. Come out! Soketah Salon is located at 563 Myrtle Avenue. Please call them at 718.875.6845 to reserve your spot today.

The Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand: Harvest Fest today, 10/18!

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:29:00 -0400
Get your fresh, affordable, yummy produce here! The Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand is open for business! What's at the farm stand today you ask? We have fresh from the farm spaghetti squash, butternut squash, red potatoes, white potatoes, red onions, carrots, pumpkin, collard greens, mustard greens, corn on the cob and apples and apple cider!! Today's our Harvest Fest, so lots of extra activities for the kids -- face painting and pumpkin decorating (small pumpkins and markers to decorate them available--while supplies last, so come on out!). The Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand is open every Tuesday, 3:30p to 6:30p at 177 Myrtle Ave (Prince/Navy). We offer fresh, local produce from Glebocki Farms, 12 oz Summer Flower Honey Bears from Tremblay Apiaries and Maple Syrup from Poorfarm Farm in Vermont. Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Oliver Peters will be making pumpkin chowder for all to taste! Come by and try it and receive a recipe to take home from 3:30 to 6:30. We accept EBT/Health Bucks/FMNP/WIC and cash. See you at the market!

Myrtle Avenue Scrawl, THIS Saturday, 10/15 !

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 15:15:00 -0400
Max Power and The Emerson Present the 1st annual Myrtle Avenue Scrawl this Saturday, 10/15! It's part bar crawl, part scanvenger hunt, part drink fest, part nosh fest. It's WHOLLY exciting! And it's this Saturday, 10/15! Created and coordinated by The Emerson (561 Myrtle) and Max Power (of Bloody Battle and Silly Dance-off fame), come out and have a real good time on Myrtle Avenue!! Prizes galore: the Scrawler with the most points wins! Click for more info! image: courtesy The Emerson and Max Power

"Soundwaves" Under the BQE - This Weekend!

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 12:13:00 -0400
Please join us on Sunday, October 16th to dedicate and celebrate Soundwaves, a mural created by artist Ellie Balk and 75+ community volunteers.

At 3:30pm, we'll be at the mural (Park Avenue near Steuben under the BQE) to dedicate it and officially 'cut the ribbon'. Pianist Samantha Bassler (one of the ten pianists whose hands Ellie traced for the design) will be on site playing Moolight Sonata on her keyboard! Afterward, join us at The Emerson at 4:30pm (561 Myrtle) to toast and celebrate this wonderful project! Contact meredith@myrtleavenue.org for more information.

Special thanks to the NYS Department of Transportation for their cooperation in this project.

Help Adopt a Myrtle Bench or Tree Guard

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 16:58:00 -0400
After just one week, three Myrtle tree guards and one Myrtle bench are fully adopted! Thank you to our generous neighbors, whose donations will be recognized via bench plaques and tree guard signage. Adopt-A-Bench and Adopt-A-TreeGuard funds will go toward 5 years of caring for Myrtle's new street furniture and street trees.

And now we've launched an opportunity for small donors to contribute toward keeping Myrtle green via HelpersUnite, a recently-launched crowd-giving community where you can raise funds for creative and cause-based projects, and sell tickets to your special events, all in one place. You can contribute as little or as much as you want, to help MARP reach its goal of getting all 20 benches and all 20 tree guards adopted.

Visit MARP's HelpersUnite project page to join the effort!

As many of you have seen by now, twenty custom-designed tree guards and twenty tree guard benches were installed on Myrtle Avenue between Washington Park and Classon Avenue. The overall design of the guards and benches is the result of a collaborative process with the Pratt Design Incubator and the local artists who submitted winning designs for the individual, laser-cut panels. Funding for the design phase, which began in 2007, and the first phase of installation came from the NY State Division of Housing & Community Renewal, the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation, NY State Council for the Arts, the Lily Auchincloss Foundation, and the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership Business Improvement District.

Myrtle's new tree guards are both functional and durable, providing opportunities to sit for the avenue's pedestrians, and also serve as Myrtles latest public art project, offering a 'canvas' that reflects Fort Greene and Clinton Hills creative spirit. The panels for each tree guard were designed by local artists, who were selected through an open call for proposals in 2010. Designs range from graphic patterns to skylines to maps, and some even reference the former Myrtle Avenue elevated train. The guards will serve as protection for the avenues street trees, while providing much-needed intermittent seating for pedestrians and those waiting for the B54 bus. Street trees not only bring an aesthetic appeal to the commercial strip, but also play an important role in filtering the air and providing shady respite from the afternoon sun.

Through a program similar to the NYC Parks Departments adopt-a-bench initiative, we are seeking sponsors to support our greening efforts and to fund street furniture maintenance. Each adoption commitment is for 5 years, and costs $2,500 for a tree guard bench and $1,500 for a tree guard (without a bench). Sponsors will be acknowledged on bench plaques or guard signage, as well as on www.myrtleavenue.org. Resources raised through this program will provide supplemental maintenance funding for the street furniture, the tree bed, and the tree itself, including: replacement of damaged bench planks, painting of panels and posts, tree bed weeding and mulching, tree fertilizer, pruning, special tree care, as needed, and tree bed plantings.

A full project history of the Myrtle Street Furniture Design Initiative can be found here.

Adopt-A-Bench & Adopt-A-TreeGuard program details and forms can be found here.

Dance Craze II Fundraiser for Fort Greene Park

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 15:54:00 -0400
Put on those dance shoes for the park we all know and love. It's time for Dance Craze II, the fundraiser for our beloved Fort Greene Park. Dance Craze II will take place on Thursday, October 20th at Roulette on Atlantic and 3rd Avenue. Eat, Drink and of course...Dance while totally loving on our Park. Hey, two steps to the right for great children's programming, two steps to the left for tree and other maintenance and care, and throw your hands in the air and boogy down in place because we wouldn't even want to THINK what life would be without it's fabulousness. Music by bluesman Gary Clark Jr. and DJ Duane Harriott, a plethora of raffle prizes, including a night at the Greenwich Hotel. A free Brownstoner tee for the next fifty people who buy tickets. Fundraiser committee includes Jonathan Ames, Ted Allen, Jennifer Egan, Nelson George and Jonathan Lethem. Heads up: 'Like' the Fort Greene Park Conservancy's website to stay up to date and for a chance to win prizes. Click here for information about how to purchase tickets or send monetary contributions.

Zaytoons: Z'fries also have it!

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 12:10:00 -0400
Zaytoons, the Zagat-rated powerhouse of Middle Eastern fare is getting a nod for their expanded menu, which now includes amongst other menu items, burgers and fries. Still very much a go-to place for delicious Middle Eastern fare like lahambajin, shish kabob, falafel, lentil soup, couscous al beit, hummus + pita, babaghanouj, fatoosh salad, the menu expanded several months ago to also include burgers and fries. A recent Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Local article by Van Sias, lists Zaytoons fries as a neighborhood stand out. The Local article describes Zaytoons fries as a must-taste: "dusted with freshly cumin, which gives them a nice kick." Stop in! Zaytoons is located at 472 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. Please reach them at 718.623.5522.

Shic is open for business!

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 17:14:00 -0400
Shic is open for business! Spelled with an 'S' for Soketah, the owners' first store on Myrtle Avenue, the new one-stop beauty bar features 4 fabulous beauty areas under one roof: hair, nails (manicures and pedicures), make-up and other beauty treatments, including facial and full body massages. The 1500sf beauty bar deluxe is designed in colors reminiscent of lovely gifts and the boxes they sometimes come in, with its primarily chocolate brown and Tiffany blue color scheme. Shic is owned by 4 locals and entrepreneurs, Keisha Farrell, Sonia Lashley, Kristal Thomas and Jamilla Martin. The space is perfect for regular pampering sessions and is also equipped to handle group or private events such as birthdays, girls night out, corporate events, bridal parties and special occasions. Inquire about customized packages and special rates for group bookings. Shic is located at 564 Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Classon (across the street from Soketah Salon). Please call Shic at 718.875.6845 for a hair, nails or massage appointment or further information.

Walking Wallabout: OHNY Tours Oct. 16th

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 16:42:00 -0400
Join MARP and Open House New York (OHNY) for a Fall walking tour of Wallabout! Two tours are being offered on Sunday, October 16th at 10am and 2pm. Space is limited, so hurry to OHNY's website and reserve a space. The tour will begin at the Prison Ship Martyrs' Monument in Ft. Greene Park, continue through the new Wallabout Historic District, pass the Navy Yard and industrial Wallabout area, and end at Walt Whitmans only remaining home in Brooklyn. The 1.5 mile tour will begin in Ft. Greene Park and last approximately 2 hours.

Meat CSA - Sign up now for shares!

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:38:00 -0400
Interested in joining a Meat CSA in Clinton Hill? Sign up here with High Point Farms!

High Point Farms is offering a Meat CSA share for the winter. Distribution takes place every other Wednesday, starting December 14th, right here at Five Spot (Myrtle and Hall Street). There are 6 pick-up dates in total (14-Dec, 28-Dec, 11-Jan, 25-Jan, 8-Feb, 22-Feb). Click the link above to sign up, and to find about more about the share!

The Myrtle Scrawl: part crawl, part scavenger hunt, wholly exciting!

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 17:23:00 -0400
Max Power and The Emerson Present the 1st annual Myrtle Avenue Scrawl! It's part bar crawl, part scanvenger hunt, part drink fest, part nosh fest. It's WHOLLY exciting! Mark your calendars for 'The Myrtle Avenue Scrawl,' which will take place on Saturday, October 15th. Created and coordinated by The Emerson (561 Myrtle) and Max Power (of Bloody Battle and Silly Dance-off fame), come out and have a real good time on Myrtle Avenue!! Prizes galore: the Scrawler with the most points wins! Click for more info! image: courtesy The Emerson and Max Power

Myrtle Teens (YEMP Program): Year 5!

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 15:43:00 -0400
Brisk day like today is quite the reminder of how quickly we've moved into a new season. Students have been back at school at least a month, including students who participated in the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership's Young Entrepreneur Mentorship Program (YEMP) for Summer 2011! The YEMP program is funded by a generous grant from the JPMorgan Chase Foundation and from operating funds of the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Business Improvement District. In YEMP, fifteen (15) local teens are placed with Myrtle Avenue businesses for a seven week summer experience which includes 20 work hours per week. MARP conducts youth outreach, schedules interviews with participating merchants, handles all employment paperwork, and pays wages for the summer. Myrtle merchants oversee the teens and serve as supervisors and mentors to the local high school students. A couple of the teens were hired by local businesses upon completion of the program, and thus will be continuing on in an after-school capacity. There were a few programmatic additions this year, including a joint closing reception together with teens from MetroTech BID's youth summer program and a youth financial literacy course led by adult and youth leaders from All About Business (AAB), a dynamic program of Optimum Capital Management (thanks AAB!). We are grateful to the following students and employers for their commitment to making the fifth year of the program a major success: Joanne Alvarez (Wallys Square Root Café, 584 Myrtle); Sadé Cadle (Brooklyn Stone Boutique, 366 Myrtle), DeVante Carolina (PrattSTORE, 550 Myrtle), Dwayne Carolina (PrattSTORE, 550 Myrtle), Christina Carpenter (Trilok Fusion Arts & Education Center, 143 Waverly), Swaneika Choy (Smiling Faces Day Care Center, 381 Myrtke), Danielle Faulkner (Fork Café, 507 Myrtle), Justin Felton (Root Stock, 471 Myrtle), Safara Figaro (Polish Bar of Brooklyn, 470 Myrtle), Michael Greene (Miracles Unisex Barber Shop, 473A Myrtle), Christopher Jerome (Walgreens, 379 Myrtle), Derrick McMichael (Sandbox Pack & Ship, 487 Myrtle), Lucio Morales (Fort Greene Park Conservancys Revolutionary Garden and Associated Supermarket, 492 Myrtle), Adjuwa Tomlin (Green in BKLYN, 432 Myrtle and CakeJoy Bakery, 364 Myrtle), Tashé Williams (Sandbox Pack & Ship, 487 Myrtle). photo: YEMP 2011 students with AAB's Cris Mercado and Marquise Terry.

Pratt Celebrates 125 Years: Kickoff Weekend is here!

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 14:30:00 -0400
Myrtle Avenue Restaurants & Cafes Celebrate Pratt's 125th Anniversary w/Lunch Specials on Sat., 10/1! Pratt Institute is turning 125, and they have LOTS of activities planned to celebrate the very first day of classes that took place on October 17, 1887! This weekend, October 1st and 2nd, kickoff weekend! Pratt has placed twelve (12) anniversary banners on Myrtle Avenue, waving and flying high in commemoration and celebration! A number of Myrtle Avenue restaurants and cafe's are offering all kinds of very enticing lunch specials on this Saturday, 10/1. Get those Pratt IDs ready! This Saturday, it's your passport to savings on all types of delectable fare up and down the Avenue. MYRTLE AVENUE (WASHINGTON PARK/CARLTON) Noor Restaurant, 336 Myrtle 15% off anything on the menu, including smoothies Sans Souci Restauant & Bar, sanssouciny.com, 330 Myrtle Happy hour drink specials + 10% off anything on the menu MYRTLE AVENUE (ADELPHI/CLERMONT) Duncans Fish & Seafood, 385 Myrtle 10% off all lunch plates MYRTLE AVENUE (VANDERBILT/CLINTON) Falafel House, 407 Myrtle All sandwiches and wraps $5-$6; 10% off large meat or spinach pizza pies; 2 slices + can of soda, $5 MYRTLE AVENUE (CLINTON/WAVERLY) Karrot Health Store, 431 Myrtle 10% off everything, including smoothies (blueberry jubilee, Omega 3 [protein], Obama [peanut butter and banana] MYRTLE AVENUE (WAVERLY/WASHINGTON) Anima Italian Bistro, 458 Myrtle, animabistro.com 20% off food and beverages for the day Five Spot Soul Food & Supper Club, 459 Myrtle, fivespotsoulfood.com Platters w/2 side orders + cornbread, $7.95 (includes choice of fried chicken, meatloaf, whiting, beef brisket, jerk chicken and chopped BBQ); $2 off beer and wine Maggie Brown, 455 Myrtle, maggiebrownrestaurant.com Happy Hour Special: buy one, get one on all well drinks, house wine and draught beers. Available from 5p-7:30p only: burger + beer special, $12; beer + wings special, $10 and $2 off burgers (outside of coupon) Thai 101, 455A Myrtle 10% off any entree Thai 101 Bistro, 448 Myrtle 10% off any entree El Cofre, 454 Myrtle lunch specials only $5-$6 MYRTLE AVENUE (WASHINGTON/HALL) Kum Kau Chinese Cuisine, 463 Myrtle 10% off all day (both takeout and sit in) Zaytoons, 472 Myrtle, zaytoonsrestaurant.com 10% off any entree Liberty Pizza, 482 Myrtle 2 cheese pizza slices + medium fountain drink, $5 MYRTLE AVENUE (HALL/RYERSON) Los Pollitos, 499 Myrtle between Hall and Ryerson 10% off all food items Waza Sushi and Ramen, 485 Myrtle 10% off food and drink items all day MYRTLE AVENUE (RYERSON/GRAND) Fork Café, 507 Myrtle, forkcafe.com 15% off all lunch/dinner items for full day; 20% off for party of 5 or more for full day MYRTLE AVENUE (EMERSON/CLASSON) Jive Turkey, 570 Myrtle, thejiveturkey.com 50% off all sandwiches on the menu between 12p-5p w/the purchase of a seasonal lemonade Wallys Square Root Café, 584 Myrtle, squarerootcafe.com 15% off food and beverages for the day Wicked Good Franks, 579 Myrtle, wickedgoodfranks.com 15% off of classic burger (frank, fries + soda regularly 5.50), classic burger (cheeseburger, fries + soda regularly $6.50 and kids meal (mini frank or grilled cheese, fries + soda regularly 4.50)

PACC to Hold Info Sessions for Navy Green Apartments @ 40 Vanderbilt

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:51:00 -0400
Interested in applying for apartments at Navy Green? Come to one of Pratt Area Community Council's (PACC) info sessions to learn more about the affordable apartments available at 40 Vanderbilt Avenue: The two (2) info sessions will take place at Sacred Heart's school cafeteria, 39 Adelphi Street between Park and Flushing Avenues. Wednesday October 5th (6pm-8pm) or Tuesday, October 18th (6pm-8pm). The housing application process for Navy Green is under the direction of the Pratt Area Community Council (PACC). All questions relating to housing at Navy Green can be directed to PACC by calling 718-522-2613. RSVP to PACC by email: rsvp@prattarea.org, letting them know which date you will attend. Click herefor 40 Vanderbilt Avenue applications, income guidelines and additional information. Application deadline for 40 Vanderbilt apartments is November 2, 2011 (postmarked by). rendering from the 40vanderbilt.org website.

Any 'Library Stories' about the BPL's Walt Whitman Branch?

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 12:00:00 -0400
On this 100th anniversary of the Carnegie Corporation of New York, the Campaign for America's Libraries is seeking stories from users of Carnegie libraries. The Brooklyn Public Library's Walt Whitman Branch at 93 St. Edwards Street, just north of Myrtle Avenue, is a Carnegie Library, one of only 67 NYC libraries built with funds from one grant (totaling $5,202,261) awarded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York on December 8, 1899. If you love the Brooklyn Public Library's Walt Whitman Branch -- their children's programming, their film series, their outreach or just love the fact that they are an important local resource and landmark, please send an email to 'librarycampaign@gmail.com' with your story. For information about the BPL Whitman Branch's programs, please contact, Janet Conton at 718.935.0244 (option 4). What's coming up at Whitman? kids story times, monthly film series and scary Halloween stories!

Great Turnout for BID Annual Meeting

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 11:18:00 -0400
This past Tuesday's BID Annual Meeting had a great turnout from merchants, property owners, residents, and our elected officials. Thank you to City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, Borough President Marty Markowitz, Council Member Tish James, Assemblyman Joe Lentol, SBS Commissioner Rob Walsh, and Commanding Officer Anthony Tasso for joining us and sharing their comments. And thanks to Malissa Browne and the SoCo team for hosting us and putting on a great event!

Photos from photographer Frederick V. Nielsen, II below and at our Flickr page:

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Beer Tasting @ Khim's Millenium Market, Sat., 10/1

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 10:41:00 -0400
Khim's Millenium Market at 536 Myrtle to host a beer tasting tomorrow, Saturday, 10/1 from 4p-6p. The beer tasting will feature Jenlain Ambree, Blonde, Pietra and Colomba. According to the brewery's website, Jenlain Printemps, a French beer, has "a maltier and more rugged taste than classic beer" and "is the first beer to be bottled in 75 cl champagne-style bottles with a wire-fastened cork." Khim's Millenium Market, opened in March 2011 is open 24-hours. They have a wide variety of grocery products as well as separate fresh salad and soft serve ice cream and frozen yogurt counters. Stop in! Khim's Millenium Market is located at 536 Myrtle Avenue between Steuben and Grand in the new LEED-certified Myrtle Hall building. Please call them at: 718.230.0788.

Hadas Gallery @ 541 Myrtle Avenue

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:16:00 -0400
We love the fact that the word 'Hadas' means 'Myrtle' in Hebrew. Hadas Gallery is located at 541 Myrtle Avenue and its current exhibit, which is up through October 31st, is titled 'Genesis,' by artist, Ora Bialik. In Genesis, Bialik addresses the first chapter of the Torah through abstract formal collage. Hadas Gallery is a project of the Rohr Jewish Center, please contact them for information about the current or future exhibits. Rabbi Simcha Weinstein, "invites the community to view the art as well as participate in services." Please contact him directly (rabbi@pratt.edu) for further information.

MyrtleBags - eco-friendly, handy, stylish and available now!

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 12:55:00 -0400
MyrtleBags are available again. Have you purchased yours? There is a whole new batch of colors to choose from (l-r in photo): deep ocean, cobalt, olive, chocolate, carrot, persimmon and papaya. Fits in your hand, on your wrist or arm or over your shoulder. Perfect for shopping! It's all at once eco-friendly, stylish, trés convenient, colorful and helps make a statement about the importance of shopping local with its 'Home Grown & Locally Owned' logo. Say no to plastic as you swing your new colorful eco-friendly MyrtleBag all over NYC and beyond. Holds the equivalent to 2-3 plastic grocery bags of stuff (about 50 pounds). 15" wide, 25" high, 6" deep. Folds into a flat 5" by 5" pouch (included). 100% ripstop machine-washable nylon. Available now at Gnarly Vines, 350 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi. Call Gnarly Vines at 718.797.3183 for more information.

Jewelry Making Workshop @ Kiini Ibura Jewelry, 9/30

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 13:05:00 -0400
Melody Burns, jewelry designer and owner of Kiini Ibura Jewelry located at 388 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt and Clermont Avenues to teach another by popular demand, adult jewelry-making class on Friday, September 30th from 7p-8:30p. Class is $35 for a single class or you can call to inquire about the class series (6 classes in the series for $210). In this class, students will: -Receive general knowledge of jewelry making techniques -Gain hands-on experience using tools, gemstones and findings -Design own jewelry from concept to creation The class includes materials and supplies. Classes will take place at Kiini Ibura Jewelry, 388 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt and Clermont Avenues. Space is limited, so call Kiini Ibura to reserve your space today: 718.858.5195.

Bike Meet-Up @ Red Lantern Bicycles, 10/4

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 14:47:00 -0400
Bike Meet-Up @ Red Lantern Bicycles on Tuesday, 10/4 from 7p-9p. Okay, bikers, come out and celebrate Red Lantern Bicycles, a new local biz! Here's more from the event page: Celebrating the local biking community with Brooklyn By Bike at Red Lantern Bicycles, a new cafe & bike shop in Fort Greene! Join us for a free happy hour and the opportunity to reconnect with all of your cycling friends (and make some new ones!). Plus: You could win a $50 gift card to Red Lantern Bicycles! Details here. Entry form here. Red Lantern Bicycles is located at 345 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi. They can be reached by phone at 347.889.5338.

The Final Vote: City Council Approves Wallabout Historic District

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 12:04:00 -0400
The New York City Council voted unanimously last week to designate the Wallabout Historic District. This final approval ends the designation process for the citys district, which started in July with the citys Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) approval. Moving forward, most exterior work undertaken on the districts 55 properties along Vanderbilt Ave, between Park and Myrtle Avenues, will need to gain approval from the LPC before beginning their work. This approval process will help ensure the districts historic homes are well preserved for their next 150 years. The citys Wallabout Historic District is a small portion of the State and National Register district created last March. This larger district provides property owners with financial incentives when undertaking rehabilitation work on their property, such as state and federal tax credits. Congratulations to all the Wallabout residents and property owners who MARP worked with over the past few years on getting the area designated!

Aristo Opens on Monday, 9/26

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 19:00:00 -0400
Aristo Gourmet Deli owners purchased the biz at 497 Myrtle Avenue from TIJ market a couple of months ago, and they've been busily building out the space ever since. They currently own the small 'New Way Myrtle Avenue Deli', adjacent Associated Supermarket, just across the street, but say this endeavour is completely different. "We'll have plenty of fruits and vegetables," shared one staff person. There will be a small counter towards the back of the store with about 5-6 stools, where customers can sit and relax and enjoy a fresh salad or fresh sandwich from the sandwich station. WiFi is coming soon. The owners hope to work with the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership sometime after the new year to create updated signage. Please stop in and support this new business. Aristo Gourmet Deli is located at 497 Myrtle Avenue between Ryerson and Grand. They can be reached at 718.789.8980.

Demos by 3 Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chefs on Saturday!

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 17:19:00 -0400
Lots of tasty, healthy goodness coming your way this Saturday from three of our very own Myrtle East Fresh Community Chefs! Visit Chef Roisin at the Fort Greene Greenmarket at 11am, Chef Dominique at the Myrtle Village Green block party at noon (Kent between Myrtle and Willoughby), and Chef Oliver at 2pm at the block party. On the menu: healthy slaw with apple cider, and kid-friendly sandwiches!

Noor Restaurant, 336 Myrtle

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 15:41:00 -0400
Noor Restaurant located at 336 Myrtle Avenue is about delicious food at very affordable prices. "I want to tempt your tastebuds and not burden your wallets," states owner, Adnan Akil. With most food items priced at $5 and under, that sounds about right. On a rainy day like today, here's something you want to know -- they do make deliveries! Noor's menu boasts a mix of both delicious Middle Eastern food items as well as diner fare like hearty burgers, tasty fries and a plethora of hot off the grill breakfast sandwiches. Noor also carries Green Mountain Coffee and makes delicious smoothies (choose from a wide variety of fruit) and shakes. Here's a bit from the menu to temp your tastebuds AND your wallet: (prices based on one menu item per price point below) $1 slice of pound cake muffin $1.25 bagel with cream cheese $2 pancakes veggie omelet cheese omelet $3 french toast sausage, cheese and egg sandwich BLT $3.50 hummus $3.75 bacon, egg and cheese sandwich $4 steak sandwich smoothies (choose up to three fruit) $5 cheeseburger deluxe roast beef sandwich pastrami sandwich turkey sandwich Philly cheesesteak mixed plate special (one piece fish/meat or hefty veggie portion w/salad and rice) $8 lamb shish kebab chicken shish kebab lamb kofte Visit MyrtleMenus for the full menu, or stop in! Adnan received a small storefront improvement grant from MARP. The money is made available through a grant from the citys Department of Small Business Services Avenue NYC program. Noor (which means 'light' in Arabic) is located at 336 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Park and Carlton. Call Noor at 718.422.7700. photos, l-r, store exterior, store owner

Upcoming BPL Workshop on Biz Plan Presentations

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:31:00 -0400
Business and Computer Coach, Henrietta Koffi to teach workshop on business plans at the Brooklyn Business Library on 10/6. From the BPL: "The way you describe your business plan to investors, lenders or judges can make all the difference in winning their support. Henrietta Koffi, a business and computer coach, will give you tips on making a presentation." The class will include the following:

What information to include
How to organize your presentation
How to present your data
How to use PowerPoint
Thursday, October 6th, from 6p to 7:30p. Please register for this event online. Or call 718.623.7000 (option 4). This event will be held at the Business Library (280 Cadman Plaza West at Tillary Street). Henrietta Koffi is a local yokel, serving as the Fort Greene Greenmarket EBT manager, deputy director at Fort Greene SNAP, a Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef and techie and teacher extraordinaire to her students. Henrietta has a deep passion for technology and people, and LOVES to operate at that intersection. Reach her here.

BID Annual Meeting w/Speaker Christine Quinn this Tuesday at SoCo

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 12:08:00 -0400
There are still a few spots available for guests to join us at the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership BID Annual Meeting, with guest speaker NY City Council Speaker Christine Quinn. The meeting is on Tuesday, September 27th, from 5-7pm at SoCo, 509 Myrtle Avenue. Drinks and light appetizers will be served. The meeting is open to the public, but RSVP is required.

RSVP at www.surveymonkey.com/s/MyrtleBIDAnnualMeeting2011.

Tree Guard Sponsorship Kick-off and Artist Reception > 10/3 @ Putnam's!

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 16:39:00 -0400
The installation of the first phase of street furniture is complete! Next week we will add the signage decals to the tree guards, and soon we will add soil and mulch to the pits to complete this phase of the project. The guards and benches have received a fantastic response from Myrtle merchants and residents, which is exactly what we had hoped for.

Some in-progress photos can be seen on our Flickr site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/myrtleavenue/sets/72157627378621281/

Please join us to celebrate on Monday, October 3rd at Putnams Pub & Cooker (Myrtle & Clinton) at 6pm. Interested in 'adopting' a bench or tree guard? We'll also be kicking-off our tree guard sponsorship program that night too in order to help us maintain the tree guards and benches for the next 5 years. RSVP to get two free drink tickets, to Meredith@myrtleavenue.org before September 28th. Hope to see you there!

Bergen Bagels To Move East in the coming months, along Myrtle that is.

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 14:16:00 -0400
Don't worry, those fresh, delicious Bergen Bagels-baked bagels, breads and pastries are still on Myrtle. You can find them at 486 Myrtle Avenue right near the Hall Street corner. As the signs on the store window have indicated for the past couple weeks, the store will be moving east in the next 4-5 months. The store will be a new commercial tenant at Myrtle Hall, located between Khim's Millenium Market and the upcoming Utrecht Art Supplies store. Of course we can expect the same fresh, delicious, baked on-premises food fare! Other additions to Bergen Bagels new, larger space: additional seating, wifi and several design tweeks. Bergen Bagels can be reached at 718.789.9300. Stop in to pick up a bite at 485 Myrtle Avenue between Hall and Ryerson.

Wally's Square Root Cafe, Wed., 9/21: Film at 8 + Hustle demo right before.

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:24:00 -0400
Ah ah ah ah, staying alive, staying alive... In addition to yummy food, count on Wally's Square Root Cafe for keeping classic movies alive in Brooklyn. Saturday Night Fever is up tonight at 8pm! Wednesdays indeed = Film nights at Wally's. As always, FREE entrance + FREE popcorn. Movie starts at 8pm. And forget about movie trailers, owners, husband-wife team, Joe and Eda will dance the hustle at 7:59pm. yeah, you know you wanna dance on over: "whether you're a brother or whether you're a mother, you're stayin' alive, stayin' alive. Feel the city breaking and everybody shaking and we're stayin' alive, stayin' alive. Ah ah ah ah, stayin' alive, stayin' alive, ah ah ah ah, stayin' alive, stayin' alive..." Here's Wally's Fall film schedule: SEPTEMBER 19th Desperately Seeking Susan 21st Saturday Night Fever 28th Moonstruck OCTOBER 5th Escape from New York 12th Ghostbusters 26th Halloween (1978) NOVEMBER 2nd Breakfast at Tiffany's

Acclaimed Illustrator, Kadir Nelson to speak at Pratt Institute tonight, 9/21 @ 7pm.

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:14:00 -0400
Kadir Nelson, Pratt alumnus and acclaimed illustrator of nearly 30 children's books, will speak at Pratt Institute's Higgins Hall (61 St. James Place) tonight at 7pm. Nelson will be on hand to discuss his latest book, "Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans" (HarperCollins, 2011). Nelson is the illustrator of Caldecott and Coretta Scott Award-winning book, 'Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom' as well as many other titles, has been commissioned to illustrate Anna Julia Cooper and Richard Wright stamps for the United States Postal Service and has recently been commissioned by the U.S. Congress to paint a portrait of Shirley Chisholm. Nelson's work graces the cover of Michael Jackson's posthumous album, 'Michael'. image taken from Pratt's Facebook page

Keeping the Global Sounds Pumping @ Touche Lounge

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 12:02:00 -0400
Award-winning New Zealand pop and soul singer, songwriter, Anita Prime, performed at Touche Lounge this past Saturday night to a packed house. Influenced by the sounds of Aretha Franklin, Mary J. Blige, Beyoncé, Tina Turner and Mariah Carey, Anita sang many of her songs, including the hit, La La La. Touche, the 4,000sf, bi-level space with bar on each floor, hosts a wide array of artists from the entire global diaspora. If it sounds GREAT, we have it here, shared Ricci, one of the Touches owners. R&B, reggae, soca, and even bangra dance and MORE are either already here or forthcoming. Hold on to your seats!, continued Ricci. Get your weekend off to a great start every week with Touches Afterwork Thursdays, Uber Fridays, Touche Saturdays and Touche Sundays. Stop in! Touche is located at 46 Washington Avenue between Park and Flushing. Contact them at 718.643.6500. photo credit: M.I.T. in NYC Ent., Dre Bless, UrbanMediaKings.com

Myrtle Farm Stand...We're still on

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 12:05:00 -0400
The Myrtle Community-run Farm Stand operates rain or shine, so we will still be out there today under the tents near 177 Myrtle. Here's what we ordered from Glebocki this week:
Beets
Carrots
Corn (7 Bags!)
Eggplant
Lettuce
Onions
Butternut Squash
Sugar Watermelon
Red Potato

Unfortunately, the rain has foiled our "Back to School" festivities, so we've rescheduled the following for next week (9/27):
Brooklyn Public Library Mobile
Facepainting
Kid-friendly cooking demos and tastings
....again, we'll still be out there today so please come out and shop! And we'll still have one cooking demo there today as well!