myrtle minutes - Local Events

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.

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.'

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

#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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

'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

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

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

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

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/

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.

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

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."

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

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).

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!

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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)

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

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.

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!

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

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.

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

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.

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

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)

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

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.

Park(ing) Day 2011 on Myrtle Avenue is this Friday, 9/16

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 19:02:00 -0400

Whew, how quickly a year zips by. It's that time again. This Friday, 9/16 is Park(ing) Day on Myrtle Avenue, and all over. In case you aren't familiar, Park(ing) Day is an international event started by Rebar that reclaims and reimagines parking spots as mini-parks and engaging public spaces. As Transportation Alternatives describes, Park(ing) Day sparks dialogue about our valuable public space and how we choose to use it. Gnarly Vines, 350 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi. Gnarly Vines Park is all about fun: inside the store: great music and wine tasting with discounts on featured wines. Outside will be face painters and sidewalk chalk. Here's more from GV: "starting at noon there will be sidewalk chalk for the kids and wine tasting for parents. Adults unaccompanied by children can let loose their inner kid on the sidewalk and join the grown-ups for a taste of wine after!" Gnarly Vines can be reached at 718.797.3183. Red Lantern Bicycles, 345 Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi Red Lantern Bicycles Park describes their space as "all about bicycle love." Iced coffee stand, snacks, demos and...hey, ride/walk by and get your flat fixed! Red Lantern Bicycles can be reached at 347.889.5338. Brooklyn Stone Boutique and CakeJoy Bakery, 366 and 364 Myrtle Avenue between Clermont and Adelphi Brooklyn Stone Boutique and CakeJoy Bakery Park is all about "very tasty treats, acoustic music and fashion." On the heels of Fashion Week and celebrating a first anniversary on Myrtle Avenue, Brooklyn Stone presents a fashion show, mucho fashion advice (think of it as solicited what not to wear)and sales galore. CakeJoy presents yummy tastings, other tasty bites and delicious specials on the hour. Brooklyn Stone Boutique can be reached at 347.763.2041. CakeJoy can be reached at 718.624.CAKE (2253). Green in BKLYN, 432 Myrtle Avenue between Clinton and Waverly Green in BKLYN Park presents Insert__Here, an interactive installation that creates community awareness around climate change. Brooklyn-based artist, Eve Mosher invites participants to post bright yellow arrows suggesting creative climate change solutions such as "Insert a tree here", Insert a green roof here Insert solar panels here." Read more about Eve Mosher and 350.org here. Green in BKLYN can be reached at 718.855.4383. Pillow Cafe, Dee & Ricky's, Fork Cafe and Sapolo Restaurant, 501-507 Myrtle betweeen Ryerson and Grand Called the 501-507 Myrtle Avenue Hot Spot, these four businesses, Pillow Cafe, Dee & Ricky's, Fork Cafe and Sapolo Restaurant have lots of great activities planned, including tastings and lunch specials. They also have an open call to acoustic musicians, spoken word artists and others, to stop by. Dee & Ricky's will roll out what they are calling their "soft, soft opening." If you only knew what they have in store for...er (yikes, almost let it slip), soon, you'll know that this is very very true (be ready!). Wing specials and beers on tap inside. Dee & Ricky's can be reached at 718.789.1111. Fork Cafe has tastings on the hour, great lunch specials galore, including their "very amazing chili." Fork Cafe can be reached at 718.622.FORK (3675). Pillow Cafe has tastings and DE-licious sandwich, salad and smoothie specials planned. Pillow Cafe can be reached at 718.246.2711. Sapolo Restaurant has tastings and lots of food specials planned. Sapolo Restaurant can be reached at 718.789.7788 or 718.789.7766. Special shout out to the amazing John Rattigan from Root Stock for ALWAYS helping us ("beyond the call") to make this happen. **special request: Anyone available to volunteer Friday morning, 9/16 for about 1-2 hours? Could use about 4-5 volunteers to help unload sod from van and roll out into 3 parking spots. If available, please call Jennifer at 718.230.1689. Unique morning workout + a brand new MyrtleBag (eco-shopping bag) + uber gratitude + a great cause (Parking Day 2011) pic from Park(ing) Day on Myrtle, 2007.

National Night Out Against Crime: TODAY

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 08:03:00 -0400

The 88th Precinct and the 88th Precinct Community and Youth Councils are inviting the community to attend the National Night Out Against Crime today, August 2, 2011 from noon to 8 p.m. at Fort Greene Park. Come check out the many informational tables and fun activities!

Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Arnetha Singelton will be serving up her Whole Wheat Vegetable Beef Pasta Salad recipe from 2-4PM on the Dekalb Avenue side of the park. Come by for a taste and the recipe to try at home!

Historic Districts Council walking tour, 7/27

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:37:00 -0400

The Historic Districts Council hosts "the secret lives of public places" walking tour on July 27th. The walking tour will feature three of the 'grand institutions of Clinton Hill', an opportunity to learn about their history and preservation: the Caroline Ladd Pratt House (229 Clinton), the Pratt Library (200 Willoughby) and Queen of All Saints Church (300 Vanderbilt). Here are the tour details.

Food Conversations @ BPL's Whitman Branch

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 14:06:00 -0400

The Brooklyn Public Library's Walt Whitman Branch (93 St. Edwards Street, just north of Myrtle Avenue) kicks off Summer Reading 2011 with monthly potlucks and food conversations. June 4:00p-6:30p (auditorium) Discussion of The 2nd International Cookbook for Kids (Matthew Locricchio) and Eat My Globe--first chapters (Simon Minjandur) + film, The Yummy Cookbook July 20th, 4:00p-6:30p (auditorium) Discussion of Sam Stern's Real Food Fast (Sam Stern) and Eat My Globe--middle chapters (Simon Minjandur) + film, Eating, the Social Consequences of Food Choices August 3rd, 4:00p-6:00p (auditorium) Discussion of Ani's Raw Food Kitchen (Ani Phyo), Eat My Globe--last chapters (Simon Minjandur) + film, Healing Cancer from the Inside Out Also this summer... video travelogue workshops: create a travelogue or blog by sharing your intended or past travel vacations, excursions and stories. Bring your favorite websites, social media plus notebook and pen. Wednesday, July 6th (6p-7:45p) and Thursday, July 21st (1:30p-3:45p). Please call Adult Services Librarian, Carlton Lula at 718.935.0244 for further information. Call LaMeane Isaac (children's services librarian) and Thomas Angelo (young adult services librarian) to find out about other upcoming summer reading activities at the Whitman Branch this summer.

'Battle for Brooklyn' Film Screening in Fort Greene Park

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 12:17:00 -0400

Battle for Brooklyn, the 93-minute documentary which details the fight over the Atlantic Yards project, previews June 3rd as part of the Brooklyn Film Festival and next week on June 9th in Fort Greene Park before opening at Manhattan's Cinema Village. Local filmmakers, Michael Galinsky and Suki Hawley worked several years on the film that has been deemed "thoroughly engaging" (indiewire) and "riveting" (the NY Daily News). Here's where to catch Battle for Brooklyn:

June 3rd: Brooklyn Film Festival (Brooklyn Heights Cinema @ 70 Henry Street)
June 9th: Rooftop Films Summer Series (Fort Greene Park @ Myrtle and North Portland)
June 17th: Cinema Village @ 22 East 12th Street, Manhattan)

This Weekend: Studio Stroll and Brunch on Myrtle!

Thu, 12 May 2011 15:15:00 -0400

It's time for the annual SONYA Studio Stroll! Come out and visit with your local artists and see what they've been up to on Saturday, May 14 & Sunday, May 15 from 12pm-6pm both days, rain or shine. The Stroll is a self-guided tour of SONYArtist members studios and galleries within our community (Ft. Greene, Clinton Hill, Wallabout and Bedford Stuyvesant, Brooklyn) that attracts thousands of visitors from the NYC metro area. Theres fabulous vintage architecture, parks, a college campus or three, great shopping, and fine dining right here on Myrtle to round out a truly inspirational experience. Find out all the deets here on SONYA's website.

Clinton Hill House Tour on Sunday, May 1st

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 19:36:00 -0400

The Society for Clinton Hill's annual event, The Clinton Hill House Tour, will take place on Sunday, May 1, rain or shine. Mark your calendars for this tour which will this year feature 14 different historic and interesting homes, a over century-year old historic church and a Clinton Avenue mansion that dates back to 1869. Pick up a Clinton Hill House Tour ticket at any of the locations listed on the flyer, including Root Stock & Quade (471 Myrtle), Pillow Cafe (505 Myrtle) and the Polish Bar of Brooklyn (470 Myrtle). Click the link above for further details.

Fort Greene and Clinton Hill Teams Invited to Help Build Kids Playground in Williamsburg

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:36:00 -0400

Up to spreading the neighborhood love to Williamsburg? Come on--you know you've got enough of it to share. And after all, it's for our kiddies! On Thursday, April 21, 2011 volunteers from Dr. Pepper Snapple Group and Nuestros Niños Child Development School, organizers from KaBOOM! and residents of the South Williamsburg community will join forces to build a new playground at Nuestros Niños School. The new playgrounds design is based on drawings created by children who participated in a Design Day event back in February (picture above, courtesy Jeff Mann, Greenpoint Gazette, is from the Design Day). Organizers of the playground project are inviting Fort Greene and Clinton Hill neighbors to organize a small team to come help build. There will be lots of exercises along the way, designed to build group comraderie, place some friendly competition in the mix so groups will have a chance at build bragging rights and of course, to get the children's playground built. The winning team will receive $3,000 from Dr. Pepper Snapple Group to put towards a block party or community project. If youre interested in joining the build, which will start at 10am on April, 21st--you can sign up for the whole day to help take the playground from start to finish or just part of the day. If you think youd like to captain a team or if you have any questions, please contact Nancy A. Martira at Nancy.Martira@ketchum.com. Read more about the project here.

First Ever Brooklyn Baby Expo this Sunday at the Toren, 150 Myrtle Avenue

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 18:50:00 -0400

First Ever Brooklyn Baby Expo on Sunday, March 13th at the Toren, 150 Myrtle Avenue. Expo runs from 11am to 4pm. Sponsored by A Child Grows in Brooklyn, the expo will feature a number of seminars, including 'Raising A Good Sleeper', 'Best Baby Gear Gurus tell all', 'Greening Your Home' and 'The Expectant Parents Guide to Brooklyn.' Every attendee to receive a FREE subscription to Time Out New York Kids and expo gift bag. Free parking all day, some stroller parking and an early bird seminar. Come out and enjoy. Lots of wonderful exhibitors, including Myrtle's Polish Bar of Brooklyn and Brooklyn Junior.

Wallabout Walking Tour, Historic Districts Council Conference - this weekend

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 16:39:00 -0400

Want to find out more about Wallabout, some of the area just north of Myrtle Avenue? Follow architectural historian Andrew Dolkart on a walk through the historic neighborhood of Wallabout. The walking tour is part of the Historic Districts Council's 17th Annual Preservation Conference. The theme of this year's conference is 'Looking Forward, Looking Back: 40 Years of Preserving NYC Neighborhoods' and it will take place March 4-6 at St. Francis College. The Wallabout District, amongst other things, has the largest collection of pre-Civil War houses in New York City, as well as former industrial factories, brick apartment buildings and rowhouses. It is also the location of the only one of celebrated poet Walt Whitman's former homes that still stands. A portion of the Wallabout is currently being considered for historic district status which would help preserve its unique architectural character. Come learn more about this little-known area that remains a time capsule of diverse architecture. The theme of this year's conference is 'Looking Forward, Looking Back: 40 Years of Preserving NYC Neighborhoods'. For complete conference information or to sign up for Sunday's tour, click here

Black History Month Film Series @ the BPL's Whitman Branch

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 10:59:00 -0400

Stop in at the Brooklyn Public Library's Whitman Branch (93 St. Edwards Street, just north of Myrtle) for its popular film series. This month's films are in tribute to Black History Month. Films are FREE and shown every Wednesday, starting at 5:30pm. Call Carlton Lula (Adult Services Librarian) for additional information: 718.935.0244 (press 4 when prompted). February 2nd Adanggaman (2000): a historical drama depicting a raid on an African village and the horrors that ensue. February 9th Amistad (1997): based on a true story of a mutiny aboard a slave ship of the same name in 1839. Much of the story involves a court-room drama about the free man who led the revolt. February 16th Mandingo (1975): glimpse of politics of the plantation system and Drum (1976): Mandingo sequel looks at rebellions and political alliances February 23rd The McMasters (1970): When Benjie, who fought in the Civil War, returns to the southern town of Ironside, his return is not exactly a welcome one. and Pinky (1949): after graduating from a Northern nursing school and returning south to her grandmothers home, a young woman gets a hard lesson re race, class and caste. She remains in the south and eventually establishes"Miss Em's Clinic and Nursery School". Please note: several films explore adult themes.

Hollywood in Brooklyn Hosted At Anima

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:16:00 -0400

Pull out your tuxedos and evening dresses for the 83rd Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, hosted by James Franco and Anne Hathaway. For the past 21 years Debbie Dangerfield of Hollywood in Brooklyn has organized a group of local Fort Greene, Clinton Hill and other neighbors together to celebrate Oscar night. This year's event will take place at Anima Italian Bistro at 458 Myrtle Avenue. Debbie says: "The Academy Award viewing and dinner is perfect for guests who are unable to attend the Awards ceremony and dinner in Hollywood on the West Coast, but would like to be able to enjoy the glamor and splendor within a convenient venue on the East Coast." This is a black-tie dinner event without exception. Guests will walk the red carpet down Myrtle to the entrance of Anima Italian Bistro. Guests will be greeted with champagne. The evening will begin with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres from 6-7:30pm. Delicious movie snacks will also be available in abundance throughout the night. Before 7:30pm airtime, guests will be escorted to dinner tables where a variety of entrees, drinks and desserts will be available for order. Vegetarian meals will also be available. Several large projection screens with stereo simulcast to Channel 7/WABC will be on throughout the night. A special prize to the best dressed green (did we mention that this year's event theme is all about loving Mother Earth, hence the 'green') outfit will be awarded as well as raffles and prizes which will be awarded throughout the evening. Special Oscar gift bags will be provided to all event attendees. Admission is $125/per person. Seats are limited. Personal checks are acceptable and due by February 7. Tickets are not available at the door. Numbered invitations will be received by mail or hand delivery.

MulchFest 2011 @ Fort Greene Park - January 8th and 9th

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:40:00 -0400

MulchFest 2011 will take place on Saturday and Sunday, January 8th and 9th, from 10am to 2pm. Chip in! Mulch your tree! Help NYC grow. MulchFest provides New Yorkers an opportunity to bring their Christmas 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. MulchFest takes place on January 8th & 9th, 2011 from 10:00am to 2:00pm. 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. 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

And the winners are....

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 18:05:00 -0400

Announcing the 2010 Holiday Windows contest winners! First Place: LeAnne Iverson @ Gray's Studio Cafe, Second Place: Natalie Apuzzo @ Wally's Square Root Cafe, Third Place: Kathleen Hayek @ Zaytoons. Congratulations, and a special thanks to all the artists and merchants who participated this year!

Share the Holiday Spirit with Neighbors in Need

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 16:43:00 -0400

According to the Food Bank for New York City, more than 1 million New Yorkers rely on pantries and soup kitchens for meals. At least ten pantries serve our neighbors, right here in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. Most accounts show a growing demand for food assistance, while resources that support these outlets are being spread thinner. This year, were inviting you take part in a local effort here on Myrtle to gather donated items for our neighbors in need.

On December 4th at our Holly & Jolly on Myrtle event, were kicking off an avenue-wide drive for donated toys, coats and food. Donate an unwrapped toy, gently used coat, and canned or other non-perishable food item at the MARP tent outside Grays Studio Café on 354 Myrtle, and receive a free hot chocolate or cider to warm you up! After the 4th, you can drop off items at any of the Myrtle businesses listed below through December 21st.

Donated items will be given to organizations serving residents right here in our community our neighbors. This season, were working with the Walt Whitman Tenant Association, which distributes food to about 100 local residents and families each week. During the holiday season, the Whitman TA also distributes toys to the children of families who visit the pantry.

If you have the means, please consider donating one or more of these items to help local families. For more information, please contact Meredith Phillips Almeida at Meredith@myrtleavenue.org or 718-230-1689.

Toy, coat and can drop-off locations (ongoing, December 4th through 21st)

MARP Tent @ Grays Studio Café, 354 Myrtle (December 4th ONLY) Toys, Coats and Cans
Gnarly Vines, 350 Myrtle Avenue Toy drive
Fort Greene SNAP, 324 Myrtle Avenue Coat drive
Five Spot Soul Food & Supper Club, 459 Myrtle Avenue Coat and Can drive
Soketah, 563 Myrtle Can drive
Klevor Liquors, 343 Myrtle Toy drive

Looking for a place on Myrtle to purchase a toy or childrens gift to donate? Try Home and U (394 Myrtle), Brooklyn Junior(150 Clinton), Green in BKLYN 432 Myrtle), Billos Discount (480 Myrtle), Worldwide Discount (341 Myrtle), or Walgreens (379 Myrtle).

Celebrate the Holidays on Myrtle!

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 16:51:00 -0400

Please join us this holiday season at one of the many activities taking place on Myrtle Avenue, from our holiday fundraiser, to the Holiday Windows Contest, to photos with Santa, to the many ShopBrooklyn specials available at participating merchants.

To purchase tickets to MARP's holiday fundraiser at the Emerson Bar ($25/person by November 19th; $35/person after), you can buy them online here. Space is limited. Hope you can join us!

MARP Marathoner

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 16:12:00 -0400

Wishing Meredith, MARP staffer, and her hubby (honorary MARP staffer) the very best in this year's NYC Marathon. This is their 3rd NYC Marathon! Runnnn, flyyyy, enjoyyy, do itttt!! (pic: Meredith and Jeff, 2009)

Halloween in Fort Greene Park

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:11:00 -0400

Sponsored by the Fort Greene Park Conservancy, the Fort Greene Park Halloween Festival will take place on Saturday, October 30th, from noon to 3pm. The Festival features a plethora of activities for children and their parents including hayrides, face-painting, games and prizes plus live entertainment. Also on Sunday in the Park, starting at 12noon, 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. Please check out the Fort Greene Park Conservancy or PUPS websites for further details. (please note that the raindate for the Halloween Festival is Sunday, October 31st) (pic from the Fort Greene PUPS Flickr page" "Lexi the Leopard")

Teen Battle Chefs at Move About Myrtle

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 17:17:00 -0400

Visitors to Move About Myrtle on September 19th & 26th had the pleasure of watching Teen Battle Chefs, a program of FamilyCook Productions, prepare a healthy recipe and serve samples for all to taste. The teens prepped, chopped, and cooked with confidence. Kids and adults alike learned from their skills; demonstrating that a healthy meal can be easy to make and taste delicious! Teen Battle Chef Joel blogs about his experience here.

Move About Myrtle 9/26: A parade, a mini-bike giveaway, and a sidewalk chalk contest!

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 14:48:00 -0400

The final installment of Move About Myrtle has a few special treats in store, including our first ever bike/scooter/big wheel parade led by a Brazilian percussion ensemble! Bring your wheels out this weekend, and check out these bike-themed activities and more:

At NOON, lineup for the parade in front of Bikes on Myrtle (478 Myrtle between Washington and Hall). Decorate your vehicle with Velo City, and groove along the avenue from Hall to Clermont to the beats of Maracatu! Then make your way to Myrtle between Vanderbilt and Clinton, for a full afternoon of bike-related fun!

Clermont to Vanderbilt
BAMcafe returns with Le Grand Baton at 3pm, and DJ Idlemind from 1pm-3pm and 4pm-6pm! Tres Elegante will offer another fashion preview this week at 4:30pm.

Vanderbilt Clinton (Bike Block!)
Pick up free bike maps and safety information from the NYC DOT Bicycle Program.
Make crafts from old bike parts with Recycle-a-Bicycle.
Share your ideas for a safer streetscape with Velo City.
Take part in mini-bicycle races organized by Velo City and RAC! Races will take place every 15 minutes from 2pm-4pm.
Enter to win a mini-bicycle at Velo Citys table, with drawings at 4:30pm!
Also on this block youll find facepainter extraordinaire, Dumeha, from noon-3pm! Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Milli will prepare a yummy healthy meal from start to finish with tastings and take away recipes for all to enjoy from 1pm-3pm, and the Teen Battle Chefs will be back from 3pm-6pm!

Clinton to Waverly
Green in BKLYN has something for everyone!
12-6 Big Bike Thing with Mia Ihari
12-2 Pangea Organics Demo with Katryna
2-4 Vokashi Composting
4-6 The Art of Eating In book signing with Cathy Erway
Street games and hula hoops will be on hand for open use throughout the day. Also, enjoy free mini-smoothies from Karrot all day, and check out the spa promotions at Karens Body Beautiful.

Waverly to Washington
Express your creativity on this block with two activities:
Enter the Chalk Walk Contest, organized by Visible Inc. Art Collective! Sign up at the event or email visibleincart@gmail.com. The theme is Under the Sea, and each contestant will have a space of about 6x6. The public will vote for winners in a number of categories, and winners will receive prizes provided by the Pratt Store!

Also plenty of space to sit and watch the action here while you enjoy a drink and a bite, with sidewalk cafes at Maggie Browns, Thai 101, Anima and Five Spot! Brunch anyone?

Washington to Hall
Brought to you by local yoga and dance studio Move with Grace, this block will feature free yoga, dance, and themed dance parties on each of the four Sundays. This week: free Yoga and belly dance class and performance by live band Major Taylor! Little ones can get a kiddie manicure at Polish Bar, and fashionistas can pick up some new pieces at Barking Browns sidewalk sale. Lots of sidewalk cafes on this block as well, so if dancing and shopping arent for you, then just relax with a cool drink outside Zaytoons (with a hookah, if youd like), Yamashiro and Liberty Pizza.

Move About Myrtle is sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership with support from St. Joseph's College, Emigrant Bank, and Associated Supermarket

Calling all "Curious Pedestrians" to Myrtle this Sunday...

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 13:05:00 -0400

The Case of the Curious Pedestrian, brought to you by our own curator-in-residence, Christina Vassallo, comes to Move About Myrtle this weekend! This is a one-day exhibition of performance art and ephemeral installations that focuses on choreography of pedestrians, the nooks & crannies of commercial spaces, and the unspoken history of sidewalks. These playful gestures will turn Myrtle Avenue into a cabinet of curiosities! We know you're "curious" to learn more, so here's what you can expect/search for/uncover/happen upon this Sunday:

Artworks
- Ranjit Bhatnagars City Birds is comprised of three sound sculptures made of vintage toy instruments that were modifed to chirp the calls of local song birds (@ Mr. Coco, Green in BKLYN, and Clinton Express Deli).
- Part scavenger hunt and part interactive detective story, Veronica Doughertys The Story of Johnny X shows participants how someone can disappear in a city. Briefings are conducted at 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30pm, on the corner of Hall & Myrtle, where participants will receive a series of clues to solve the mystery of what happened to Johnny X.

- Angela Fans Happy Benhadi Costume Party is a whimsical addition to a common city street scene: fresh fruits and vegetables for sale on the sidewalk (@Benhadi Supermarket).

- Jonny Farrows video Pizza is Art celebrates the longstanding tradition of the Brooklyn pizzeria. Shot in the artists local pizza parlor, the footage was looped, reversed, processed, and folded back on itself, much like the process of kneading dough (@Liberty Pizza).

- Kathryne Halls sculpture Aberrant Drain transforms the view at Clinton & Myrtle, twisting the horizon into urban mirage. Sponsored, in part, by the Greater New York Arts Development fund of the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, administered by the Brooklyn Arts Council.

- Join licensed tour guide and 4th generation Myrtle Avenue resident Jonah Levy on his Moitel Avenue Tour to discover the vast hidden history of the Myrtle Ave you might not know. FREE 30-minute tours are conducted at 1, 2, 3 & 4 pm, and start at the corner of Hall & Myrtle on a first-come, first-served basis.

- Each element in Lili Maya & James Rouvelles Surface-active agent will subtly react to the heat, light, humidity, and vibrations caused by the patrons and employees of 3 Stars Laundromat.

- Playlab scoured Craigslists free listings to build a pedestrian lounge in the street. They archived each piece of furniture in their Craigshouse installation online here. Visitors to the exhibition are welcome to take home a piece of furniture if they agree to submit a photo of the item in its new home (@Home and U).

- Risa Punos Look Here stereograms contain 3-D images hidden within 2-D patterns. Installed on storefronts along Myrtle Ave, each layer offers an opportunity for viewers to stop and stare (@Myrtle Glass, Karrot and Bechamel).

- Hunt for dollar bills in Sal Randolphs $1 Near Something Red. Look for red bicycles, fire boxes, fences, t-shirts, even apples, and you may discover a specially rolled dollar with a printed message enclosed. Try attracting dollars to you by putting out something red, or take the opportunity to leave some of your own money for others to find.

Sounds like fun, right? Pick up a map at the MARP table this Sunday, or download one here
photo: Sal Randolph, "$1 Near Something Red"

Move About Myrtle 9/19: A Curious Pedestrian, BAMcafe' Live, and activities for the family

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 13:05:00 -0400

Check out the schedule for 9/26 here!

-------------------
Ok, so the weather was less than perfect last weekend, but it didnt rain on the Good Food Fests parade! We had a blast from noon until 3pm (when we had to call it due to showers), with Rude Mechanical Orchestra, Tillie the art dog, and tons of foodies and food organizations and tasty food. So far so good for this Sunday, with a summer-like 80 degree day forecasted, so come out and enjoy the day on Myrtle! You wont want to miss this one weve got a special featured program this week, The Case of the Curious Pedestrian , by our own curator-in-residence, Christina Vassallo! Click here for full exhibition details!!!

Oh...and, of course, don't forget about the Explore Myrtle Avenue contest, and our Facebook fan appreciation raffle!

Heres more on Move About Myrtle 9/19:

Clermont to Vanderbilt
BAMcafe joins the Move About Myrtle fun! Fifth Nation performs live at 3pm, and DJ Idlemind spins from 1pm-3pm and 4pm-6pm, helping us close out with another Myrtle dance party! Sidewalk sales return again, and make sure to peep Craigshouse (by Playlab) at Home and U! Craigshouse is a pedestrian lounge in the street, created entirely with free stuff from Craigslist. Visitors to the exhibition are welcome to take home a piece of furniture if they agree to submit a photo of the item in its new home!

Vanderbilt to Clinton
The FDNY is bringing out the Smoke House a life size fire safety unit, complete with crawl spaces and safety instructions from noon-4pm! Wow! Cumberland Diagnostic and Treatment Centers mobile health unit will also be here, with free screenings for cholesterol, diabetes and blood pressure. The NYC Compost Project in Brooklyn will also be join us with volunteers, compost worms, and lessons on how to DIY your own compost bin at home! Facepainter extraordinaire, Dumeha, is back this week from noon-3pm. Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Jasmine will prepare a yummy healthy meal from start to finish with tastings and take away recipes for all to enjoy!

Clinton to Waverly
Green in BKLYN continues to delight Myrtle-Movers with a full day of activities!
12-6 Book drive for Ingersoll Community Center
12-6 Bird Song Installation by Ranjit Bhatnagar
12-2 Vokashi Composting
2-4 Honey Extraction with Michael Hegedus - Three Sisters Local Honey
4-6 Losing My Cool Book signing with Thomas Chatterton Williams
GrowNYC will be on hand with an interactive game that teaches Myrtle-Movers of all ages the rules you need to know about how to recycle in NYC. For kids (and the inner child in all of us), this block will be devoted to good old-fashioned fun! Street games and sidewalk chalk will be on hand for open use throughout the day, with plenty of blank street canvas for all, and free arts and crafts activities! Enjoy free mini-smoothies from Karrot all day, and check out the spa promotions at Karens Body Beautiful.

Waverly to Washington
Let loose your inner Jackson Pollack! Clinton Hill Hardware has donated paints and brushes for an open painting area in front of their store. There will be plenty of cardboard 'canvas' to go around, so bring your creative energy! Trilok Fusion Arts will be joining us with a family friendly art activity in front of the Waverly lot. Also plenty of space to sit and watch the action here while you enjoy a drink and a bite, with sidewalk cafes at Maggie Browns, Thai 101, Anima and Five Spot! Brunch anyone?

Washington to Hall
Brought to you by local yoga and dance studio Move with Grace, this block will feature free yoga, dance, and themed dance parties on each of the four Sundays (check back for this Sundays schedule). This week...
12pm Check in* for GLOBAL MALA 108 Sun Salutations w/live music. "The purpose of the Global Mala Yoga for Peace is to unite the global yoga community from every continent, school or approach to form a "mala around the earth" through collective practices based upon the sacred cycle of 108 on September 19th or 20th, Fall Equinox as the yoga world's offering to further the UN International Peace Day."
*Check-in will be inside the studio. Bring a mat or rent one for $2 at Move With Grace
2pm FREE children and teen's dance class ages 6+
4pm live Jazz Music by Nucomme
Little ones can get a kiddie manicure at Polish Bar, and fashionistas can pick up some new pieces at Barking Brown. Lots of sidewalk cafes on this block as well, so if dancing and shopping arent for you, then just relax with a cool drink outside Zaytoons (with a hookah, if youd like), Yamashiro and Liberty Pizza.

Next week (9/26)&
Our first ever bike/scooter/big wheel parade from Hall to Clermont kicks off 9/26, with lots of bike-themed programs throughout the day!
BAMcafe brings DJ Idlemind and Le Grand Baton
Sidewalk chalking contest with prizes!

Move About Myrtle is sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership with support from St. Joseph's College, Emigrant Bank, and Associated Supermarket(photos from 09-05-2010 Move About Myrtle)

Park(ing) Day After Party - Under the BQE

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 12:27:00 -0400

Come join us and the Design Trust for Public Space for one of their monthly Public Space Potlucks, this one hosted under the BQE at Washington and Park Avenues. As part of Park(ing) Day, a global day which reclaims parking spaces citywide for other uses, we are working with a great group of collaborating organizations to transform part of the parking area into a dinner party. We will be creating a giant communal dinner table made from recycled wooden pallets from the Brooklyn Navy Yard, and showcasing the days Park(ing) Day spaces.

BQE BYO
Friday, September 17
6:30-8:30pm
Corner of Washington Avenue and Park Avenue
Under the BQE

For this potluck-
BYO Food to share!
BYO Table centerpiece to decorate!
BYO Musical instruments to entertain!
BYO Games to play!
BYO Park(ing) space if you are creating one during the day!
BYO Friends!!!

RSVP via the Facebook event.

(Directions: C or G Train to Clinton Washington stop, walk north to Washington and Park)

This event is being organized in partnership with Architecture for Humanity NY, Do Tank Brooklyn, Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership, Design Trust for Public Space, and Transportation Alternatives.

This dinner is part of an effort to bring temporary programming to the spaces under the BQE. MARP has been working with the community to generate ideas for how this space can be improved for the entire community, to create a space that is cleaner, safer, greener, more active, and that helps to reconnect the areas to the north and south of the BQE. To see drawings and photos of ideas submitted by past workshop attendees, visit here. And stay tuned for future opportunities to help plan the future of this space.

Move About Myrtle grooves into week 2...

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:06:00 -0400

Did you Move About Myrtle with us this weekend? Send your photos to info@myrtleavenue.org, and we'll add them to our flickr set. This Sundays schedule proves to have something for everyone more Soul Summit, a Food Fest, recycling 101, and even a world-renowned dog artist! We know youre excited to hear more, so here it goes&

Clermont to Vanderbilt
Early in the day, enjoy the smooth sounds of Duncans Fish Markets Steel Pan band from noon-2pm, then dance the afternoon away with Soul Summit, whos back for one more Fort Greene dance party this year, spinning from 3-6pm on Myrtle near Clermont. Sidewalk sales return at Kiini Ibura, and Home and U!

Vanderbilt to Clinton
Brooklyn Food Coalition brings tasty, healthy food fun and education to Move About Myrtle! BFCs Good Food Fest is jam-packed (no pun intended) with chef demos, tastings, contests and representatives from your local food groups! Here are the deets:
12:00-3:00
" Kick-off with NYC radical marching band Rude Mechanical Orchestra!
" NYC Beekeeping Association will share the buzz about Urban Beekeeping & Wendy Godek will show us how to can jam.
" Enjoy FREE food samples from local purveyors such as: LugNuts, BK Salsa Co, BK Bouillon, and more!
" Visit tables from these organizations to learn more and find out how you can get involved in the local food movement: GrowNYC Greenmarkets, Greene Hill Food Co-op, Families United for Racial and Economic Equity (FUREE), Fort Greene Association (FGA), Fort Greene Peace, Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project Myrtle Eats Fresh program and the Brooklyn Food Coalition.
12:30 2:30 Cooking demos with local chefs
" 12:30 with Harriet Sy, preparing Chinese Pan-Fried Dumplings with Local Chives
" 1:00 with Marina Berger, preparing Traditional Eastern European Pickles & Russian Potato Salad using Lactofermentation
" 1:30 with Sherry Grimes, preparing Seared Salmon with local Bok Choy, Tomatoes, Beans, Cucumbers and Basil
" 2:00 with Growing Chefs, demonstrating Sprouting & recipes that incorporate Sprouts
1:00-3:00 Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Yvonne Bodrick will prepare a meal from start to finish with tastings and take away recipes for all to enjoy!
2:30 3:00 Best Dish Contest
Bring a dish and enter to win! Celebrity judges include: Christopher Elam, National Program Director of Meatless Monday, food writer Kerry Trueman, City Council Member Letitia James and Suzanne Barr, Owner of Sweet Potato Bakery.
3:00-6:00 Family Cook Productions Teen Battle Chefs, fresh off their 4Food Veggiescoop contest win, will prepare a Spicy Corn Salad for all to sample! The teen chefs are students at NYC HealthCorps schools.
4:00-6:00 Canning enthusiast Kate Payne will share her secrets to making pickles and demonstrate how common kitchen appliances can be used by a novice canner.

Clinton to Waverly
Reduce, reuse and recycle here! GrowNYC will be on hand with an interactive game that teaches Myrtle-Movers of all ages the rules you need to know about how to recycle in NYC, and Green in BKLYN is collaborating with the Mac Support Store for an E-Waste drive from noon 6pm! No better time than the present to clear out all of those old electronics in your closet! Also at Green in BKLYN meet Tillamook Cheddar, renowned dog artist (yes, hes a dog!), and check out his work (from noon-2pm), compost with Vokashi from 2-4pm, and meet author Kate Hanley (The Anywhere, Anytime Chill Guide) and check out lollipop meditation from 4-6pm. For kids (and the inner child in all of us), this block will be devoted to good old-fashioned fun! Hula hoops, street games and sidewalk chalk will be on hand for open use throughout the day, with plenty of blank street canvas for all, and free arts and crafts activities! Enjoy free mini-smoothies from Karrot all day, and check out the spa promotions at Karens Body Beautiful.

Waverly to Washington
Let loose your inner Frida Kahlo! Clinton Hill Hardware has donated paints and brushes for an open painting area in front of their store. There will be plenty of cardboard 'canvas' to go around, so bring your creative energy! Also plenty of space to sit and watch the action here while you enjoy a drink and a bite, with sidewalk cafes at Maggie Browns, Thai 101, Anima and Five Spot! Brunch anyone?

Washington to Hall
Brought to you by local yoga and dance studio Move with Grace, this block will feature free yoga, dance, and themed dance parties on each of the four Sundays (check back for this Sundays schedule). Little girls can get ready for school with a kiddie manicure at Polish Bar, and fashionistas can pick up some new pieces at Barking Brown. Lots of sidewalk cafes on this block as well, so if dancing and shopping arent for you, then just relax with a cool drink outside Zaytoons (with a hookah, if youd like), Kum Kau and Liberty Pizza.

Heres a teaser about whats in store for upcoming weeks:
The Case of the Curious Pedestrian brings playful public art projects and performances to the avenue on 9/19
BAMcafe brings DJ Idlemind, Le Grand Baton, and Fifth Nation on 9/19 and 9/26
Don't miss the FDNY Smoke House on 9/19
Sidewalk chalking contest with prizes 9/26
Our first ever bike/scooter/big wheel parade from Hall to Clermont kicks of 9/26, with lots of bike-themed programs throughout the day!

Do you have a free activity or game that youd like to share with your fellow Myrtle visitors? Send us an email at Meredith@myrtleavenue.org!

Move About Myrtle is sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership with support from St. Joseph's College, Emigrant Bank, and Associated Supermarket(photos from 09-05-2010 Move About Myrtle)

Get your groove on at Move About Myrtle

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:24:00 -0400

Move and groove at Move About Myrtle this weekend! Who needs the club, when you can get down to Soul Summit right here on Myrtle? Check out this lineup for all kinds of tail-feather-shaking activities:

Soul Summit
Did you miss Soul Summits last dance party in Fort Greene Park this season? Dont worry theyre back in the neighborhood at Move About Myrtle with two more chances for you to get down! Theyll be with us this Sunday and next Sunday, 9/12. (Clermont and Myrtle, 3pm-6pm)

Get movin at Move with Grace
Dont miss free music and dance classes all day at local studio Move With Grace! Wear comfortable clothes and join in!
12noon Yoga Class (All Levels) with Grace
2pm Live Music "Major Taylor" - Rock, soul and blues
3:30pm Tahitian Dance Class (All Levels) and Performance with Mikaela Joy
5pm Belly Dance Class with Tamar Raqs

At upcoming Move About Myrtle events&

- Rude Mechanical Orchestra will be helping to create a celebratory vibe at Brooklyn Food Coalitions Good Food Fest on 9/12. RMO is a 30-odd-piece New York City radical marching band and dance troupe. Through their music and performance they support people and communities working for social justice. (Vanderbilt and Myrtle)
- On 9/19 and 9/26 BAMcafe Live joins us on Myrtle by bringing DJ Idlemind The Appropriate Agent, Fifth Nation and le Grand Baton to the stage at Clermont and Myrtle!
- Trilok Fusion Arts youth dancers perform on 9/26!
- Maracatu provides a beat for our first ever bike/scooter/big wheel parade on 9/26!

Move About Myrtle will make you HEALTHY!

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:51:00 -0400

Here's to being healthy! If you've been thinking about a healthier lifestyle, Move About Myrtle can get you jump-started! If you're already on the healthy tip, then you'll love what we have store for this Sunday. Check it out!

Veggiecate yourself!

Lisa Suriano, founder and creator of the Veggiecation Program, will conduct a cooking demonstration targeting elementary school age kids, and on the menu is Teriyaki Snap Peas and Carrots - yum! Kids will be invited to sample Veggiecation's culinary creation and cast a vote on how they liked the recipe in the Veggiecation Ballot Boxes. Empowering children to express their opinion is an integral part of the Veggiecation philosophy and method. Veggiecation Character Coloring Pages and crayons will be given out to all participants, and parents will be able to pick up a copy of Veggiecation's Top Five Tips to Grow the Love of Vegetables At Home. Fun stuff for the whole family! (1pm-4pm between Vanderbilt and Clinton)

Community Chef Cooking Demos

Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Dumeha will be cooking up tasty recipes that are healthy and affordable for you to sample. Visit her from and learn some new techniques to bring back to your own kitchen! (1pm to 3pm between Vanderbilt and Clinton)

Green in BKLYN makes Move about Myrtle green!

Green in BKLYN brings some green spirit to Move About Myrtle with a fantastic calendar of events! Bring out your old umbrella this Sunday and learn how to make a bag from it how cool is that? (Drop off your old umbrellas throughout the week if youre just looking to get rid of those broken ones!) Heres the full schedule of events that will take place right outside the store (between Clinton and Waverly):
12-2pm Making Bags from Umbrellas with Catherine Charlot of HIMANE
2-4pm Vokashi Composting with Vandra Thorburn
4:30-6pm Yolele! Book Signing with chef Pierre Thiam including tasty Somali treats!
TEASER: Next week at Green in BKLYN & e-waste recycling and world-renowned dog artist Tillamook Cheddar!

Shape Up New York

Shape Up New York, a FREE family fitness program offered at parks sites, community centers, housing sites and events around New York City, helps us get fit right here on Myrtle! Fitness classes are open to all ages no experience necessary, but wear comfortable clothes and a healthy attitude! The program is sponsored jointly by the City's Health and Parks Departments.(2pm-4pm between Clermont and Vanderbilt)

Counting down to MOVE ABOUT MYRTLE!

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 15:08:00 -0400

Are you ready to Move About Myrtle? Were kicking it off on September 5th with a Back to School Celebration! Come join us for a day of fun and games before heading back to hit the books. The first Sunday is already jam-packed with free activities, music, and merchant specials, and were confirming more every week. New contest this year well select one lucky winner each week to receive $100 in Myrtle gift certificates! To enter, follow us on Facebook or enter at our MARP table at the events, located between Washington and Hall. You can also pick up your Explore Myrtle Avenue game cards at every Sunday event, and enter for your chance to win a Myrtle shopping spree later in the fall!

Click here to find out getting healthy about at Move About Myrtle this weekend, and here to find out about getting your groove on!

Heres a block-by-block summary of activities for September 5th:

Clermont to Vanderbilt
Did you miss Soul Summit in Fort Greene Park this summer? Theyre back in Fort Greene for two more summer dance parties at Move About Myrtle! Soul Summit DJs will spin from 3-6pm on September 5th and September 12th on Myrtle near Clermont. While you're here drop off your gently worn clothes at Tres Elegantes Textile Drive and check out their fashion show at 4:30pm, browse the sidewalk sale racks at Kiini Ibura, and take advantage of Home and Us Door Buster specials to give your apartment or dorm room a fall makeover.

Vanderbilt to Clinton
Heres to your health! Jump in and burn some calories at DPHOs Shape Up NYC fitness classes for all ages, and enjoy kid-friendly food preparation and tastings with Veggiecation from 1-4pm. Myrtle Eats Fresh Community Chef Dumeha will be cooking and serving up tasty bites made from healthy, affordable ingredients at 4pm. Also, Verizon will be raffling a prepaid cell phone, and Castros will be offering tasty Mexican food and barbecuing in the lot at Emigrant Bank. And&weve also got free face painting from noon 3pm!

Clinton to Waverly
For kids (and the inner child in all of us), this block will be devoted to good old-fashioned fun! Hula hoops, street games and sidewalk chalk will be on hand for open use throughout the day, with plenty of blank street canvas for all, and free arts and crafts activities! Enjoy free mini-smoothies from Karrot all day, and Sans Souci offers their Caribbean fare in the Citibank lot. Check out the spa promotions at Karens Body Beautiful. Green in BKLYN has a full day of activities planned, so make sure to stop by! Make bags from umbrellas with HIMANE from 12-2pm, compost with Vokashi from 2-4pm, and meet local celebrity chef Pierre Tham from Grand Dakar at 4:30pm, have him sign his book, Yolele!, and taste some Somali treats. Yum.

Waverly to Washington
Join local artist Ellie Balk and her team as they create a community mural at the fence at the vacant lot next to Bank of America! Trilok Fusion Arts will bring their weaving looms Plenty of space to sit and watch the action here while you enjoy a drink and a bite, with sidewalk cafes at Maggie Browns, Thai 101, Anima and Five Spot! Brunch anyone?

Washington to Hall
Brought to you by local yoga and dance studio Move with Grace, this block will feature free yoga, dance, and themed dance parties on each of the four Sundays. This Sunday's lineup:
12 Yoga Class (All Levels) with Grace
2pm Live Music "Major Taylor" - Rock, soul and blues
3:30pm Tahitian Dance Class (All Levels) and Performance with Mikaela Joy
5pm Belly Dance Class with Tamar Raqs
Little girls can get ready for school with a kiddie manicure at Polish Bar, and fashionistas can pick up some new pieces at Barking Brown. Lots of sidewalk cafes on this block as well, so if dancing and shopping arent for you, then just relax with a cool drink outside Yamashiro, Zaytoons, Kum Kau and Liberty Pizza. You can even catch up on your African cinema outside Billos Discount Store!

Heres a teaser about whats in store for upcoming weeks:
Soul Summit returns on 9/12!
BAMcafe brings featured artists on 9/19 and 9/26
Brooklyn Food Coalitions Good Food Fest takes over Vanderbilt to Clinton block on 9/12
The Case of the Curious Pedestrian brings tons of playful public art projects and performances to the avenue on 9/19
Our first ever bike/scooter/big wheel parade from Hall to Clermont kicks of 9/26, with lots of bike-themed programs throughout the day!

Excited yet??? We are! Spread the word, and we'll see you on Myrtle in a few weeks!

Move About Myrtle is sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership with support from St. Joseph's College, Emigrant Bank, and Associated Supermarket.(photos from 2009 Move About Myrtle)

Celebrate Fresh Food at the Myrtle Eats Fresh Kick-Off Event!

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 14:09:00 -0400

MARPs Myrtle Eats Fresh initiative includes a number of projects that engage community members in activities to improve access to healthy, affordable food on Myrtle Avenue, and in the surrounding neighborhoods of Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. Projects include a community-run farm stand, a community chef program, creating and expanding community gardens on public housing grounds, and the formation of a local food policy task force.

Join us to learn more about the program and celebrate the inaugural season of the Myrtle Farm Stand, and meet the community members, project partners and MARP staff involved in making it all happen!

When: Thursday, August 12, 2010
Time: 4:30pm
Where: Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand, at the Ingersoll Community Center
177 Myrtle Avenue (Prince/Navy)

Please RSVP: Joanna Reynolds, 718.230.1689 or joanna@myrtleavenue.org
Light refreshments will be served.

Events: KICK-OFF SPECIAL! Spend at least $8 and get an additional $2 free produce!
Cooking Demo by Community Chef Jasmine Reaves
Meet gardeners from Ingersoll Garden of Eden
Free face painting with Dumeha Bernice of ParaLees Peace

The Myrtle Eats Fresh Initiative is supported by New York Community Trust and Atlantic Philanthropies as part of the New York City Community Experience Partnership (CEP), a collaboration with United Neighborhood Houses of New York (UNH), with additional support from Brooklyn Community Foundation.

Join us at the 2nd Annual Summer Fort Greene/ Clinton Hill Progressives' Potluck & Gathering

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 14:35:00 -0400

Neighborhood Organizations are coming together to host the second annual Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Progressives' Potluck & Gathering. Community members, progressives', activists and organizers from the Fort Greene and Clinton Hill community will come together to eat, play and get acquainted. Mr. Goldman of Fort Greene Peace said it best, "we can do so much more when we know each other and work together!".

All are welcome! Please bring a dish to share.

Location: In Fort Greene Park Parallel to Washington Park, between the DeKalb Ave. (just north of the playground) and the Willoughby Avenue entrances.
When: Sunday, August 8, 1:00PM
Contact: bthstchr@yahoo.com

Hosted by: Fort Greene Peace, Brooklyn Food Coalition (BFC) Fort Greene/Clinton Chapter, Families United for Racial and Economic Equality(FUREE), Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project(MARP) & Pratt Area Community Council(PACC)

Garden Workshop Series at Ingersoll Garden of Eden Rolls On!

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 11:21:00 -0400

Come on out this Saturday, August 7, from 10am-12pm at the Ingersoll Garden of Eden for a FREE workshop on "Vertical Growing & Trellising", led by Just Food's City Farms Trainers! This is the fourth workshop in our Garden Workshop Series, that is running through September. This workshop will focus on how to grow more plants in less space.

All workshops take place at the Ingersoll Garden of Eden, which is located adjacent to the Ingersoll Community Center, at 177 Myrtle, between Prince and Navy.

Our last workshop, "Planting for Fall Harvest", was led by Just Food's dynamic City Farms Trainer, Ceci Charles-King. Ceci led a tour de force through all kinds of garden knowledge, from soil care, to seed saving, to what plants are good companions for others, and so much more. The workshop participants walked away with a whole lot to chew on!

So don't miss out on this workshop series! Come on out to the garden on Saturday, and take advantage of FREE access to Just Food's expert City Farms Trainers.

Move About Myrtle returns this September! Get involved!

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 18:59:00 -0400

On all four Sundays this September, Myrtle Avenue between Hall and Clermont will transform into an active, pedestrian-friendly public space perfect for dancing, cycling, strolling, and people-watching! Weve partnered with DOT's Weekend Walks to bring back Move About Myrtle for a second year, celebrating community and public space with residents of all ages. From noon to 6pm each Sunday, the commercial corridor will become a temporary neighborhood plaza complete with FREE music, workshops, performance, games, arts and much more -- all organized with the help of local community groups and Myrtle merchants. Here are some of the highlights:

September 5th: Back-to-School celebration with activities for the whole family!
September 12th: Brooklyn Food Coalitions GRUB FEST featuring the biggest potluck ever, a Mac and Cheese contest, and fun for foodies of all ages!
September 19th: "The Case of the Curious Pedestrian" will offer playful public art installations, performances and surprises on all five blocks&and the FDNY Smoke House!
September 26th: Its Bicycle Day, and our 2nd annual tree giveaway!

Every Sunday: kids activities and games, sidewalk cafes, free yoga and dance classes by Move With Grace studio, music and performances, merchant specials, free tastings, and raffle prizes!

Interested in helping out? Move About Myrtle provides a wonderful opportunity to support your community! Please email Meredith@myrtleavenue.org if youd like to spend a few hours to help make these events a success. Believe us, it wont be possible without you! We need help spreading the word (flyering, postering, blogging) before the event, and there are endless coordination tasks on event days where assistance would be much appreciated! Have a special skill or talent that youd like to share with your neighbors? Maybe youre an acoustic musician or dance instructor, or maybe youve got a knack for arts & crafts with recycled materials. If you have an idea for a program or activity, please let us know! Wed love to have you. Local energy and talent will be what truly makes this a community-centered event!

Would you organization like to participate? Local organizations can sponsor a block by supporting and/or organizing activities to take place there, and by assisting with event promotion. Email us your suggestions! Send them to Meredith@myrtleavenue.org.

Garden Workshop Series at the Garden of Eden

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 16:50:00 -0400

Maureen, with Just Food, gave the gardeners great advice in Saturday's workshop, "Organic Pest Control: Planting techniques to increase yields and decrease pests". Did you know that ants don't like mint? To reduce their presence you can crush up fresh mint, add it to water and use it as a spray around your garden and plants. This workshop was the second in a series of seven that will run through September. The next, "Planting for Fall Harvest", is scheduled for July 24, 2010 10-noon (weather permitting) at the Garden of Eden on Myrtle Ave between Prince and Navy. All are welcome!

Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Opens Today, 7.8.10, 4-7PM!!

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 11:07:00 -0400

Come by between 4-7PM and buy affordable fresh fruit and vegetables direct from New York and New Jersey farmers to you! We are located at 177 Myrtle Ave btwn Prince and Navy in front of the Ingersoll Community Center. Today's bounty will include blueberries, cherries, collard greens, spinach, beets, zuchinni, and much more! We accept Cash, EBT, FMNP, and WIC. Please bring your bag and extras for others if you have some to spare. See you at the market!

Play Me, I'm Yours

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 11:59:00 -0400

Okay, so some people take years of "indoor" training before making their public debuts. Sing for Hope spins that notion on its head by bringing 60 pianos to parks and public spaces of New York City--TWO of them in Fort Greene Park! One piano is at the Myrtle entrance to the Fort Greene Park (see picture above) and another just up the hill at the north oval, just opposite the Prison Ship Martyrs Monument. Sing for Hope takes music to the streets with Play Me, Im Yours, a public art project. The piano will be open and available for anyone to sit and play, now thru Monday, July 5th. Stop by, play!

Tickle the Ivories, Tap Your Feet: Make Music New York is Monday!

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 18:50:00 -0400

Are you ready?! We hope so. Make Music New York takes place on Monday, June 21st. Make Music New York is a live, free musical celebration across the city that takes place each June 21 the longest day of the year. On that day, hundreds of public spaces throughout the five boroughs sidewalks, parks, community gardens, and more become impromptu stages for over 1,000 free concerts. Eleven (count 'em: 11!) of the venues (restaurants, cafes, kids clothing store, eco-friendly shop, wine boutique, Fort Greene Park) will take place on Myrtle Avenue. Come out and groove to the music and relax or eat, drink and be merry. See the schedule of events above or below. And for all you neighborhood Liberaces and local Alicia Keys, the pianos are coming! Sing for Hope takes music to the streets with Play Me, Im Yours, a public art project that will bring 60 pianos to the parks and public spaces of New York City. Fort Greene Park will have two pianos--one on Myrtle (at the Myrtle entrance to the Fort Greene Park) and another just up the hill at the north oval, just opposite the Prison Ship Martyrs Monument. The piano will be open and available for anyone to sit and play: Friday, June 18th (being delivered at 4pm) until Monday, July 5th. PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES: Anima Italian Bistro 458 Myrtle Avenue Anthony Cedras Global soul and R&B 1:00pm-8:00pm Brooklyn Junior 150 Clinton Avenue -PEMG, a community based program focused on teaching young people about Hip Hop from a cultural and Indie perspective. -Jesse Goldman (http://www.myspace.com/Jessesamgoldman), Experimental / Swing / Americana 2:30-5:00 pm. Castros Mexican Cuisine 511 Myrtle Avenue 5:30p-10pm -DJ Fuerte Chez Lola 387 Myrtle Avenue 7:30p to 10:30 pm Sedric Choukroroun Brazilian Jazz Trio Shukroon, Smith & and Monaco are a joyous trio, playing their own blend of Samba-Jazz-Pop: acoustic harp-guitar, saxophones-flute and percussion Chez Oskar 211 DeKalb Avenue 7:30p to 10:30pm The Blue Vipers of Brooklyn consists of: Billy Nemec-guitar/lead vocals, Chris Pistorino-bass/vocals, David Langlois-washboard percussion/vocals, Sam Hoyt-Trumpet/vocals The Blue Vipers of Brooklyn, an early jazz, swing, and blues band, composed of acoustic guitar/vocals, upright bass, homemade washboard percussion, trumpet and saxophone, plays its' repertoire of witty songs from 1920's and 30's, along with its' augmented original tunes and often bawdy lyrics sung in catchy 4 part vocal harmony. Fort Greene SNAP 324 Myrtle Avenue -Anisa Fujah from 3 to 5 (Jazz) -Soulfolk Experience 5 to 6 (also jazz) -Jesse Goldman from 6 to 7 (experimental jazz) Gnarly Vines 350 Myrtle Avenue -Carolyn Leonhart and Jay Leonhart (daughter and dad)vocals and bass (jazz, soul, standards) 1:30pm-3:00pm Green in BKLYN 432 Myrtle Avenue Carolyn Leonhart and Jay Leonhart (daughter and dad)vocals and bass (jazz, soul, standards) 12p-1:15p and Claire Raji Rodriguez folk, pop 4p-6p Los Pollitos III 499 Myrtle Avenue 12pm to 9pm Live Latin band Move with Grace Yoga, Dance & Pilates Studio 469 Myrtle Avenue -Nucomme - rock/soul artist 8pm -Cavalier - Hip Hop/Soul artist 8:30pm -The Outabodies - Hip Hop/Jazz/Rock artists 9pm Sans Souci Restaurant 330 Myrtle Avenue Metric Man aka The Freedom Fighter (reggae) 1pm-9pm Fort Greene Park (Myrtle Avenue entrance) All day Upright piano (Sing For Hope): all day (on-site) 12p-1pm WATCH High School 2p-3:00p JHS 185 Drumline 3:00pm-4:00pm Ronald Edmonds Middle School 113 Choir 6p-7p Maracatu New York (Brazilian Percussion)

Weekend Tours of the Local Neighborhood

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 11:57:00 -0400

Mark your calendars for upcoming neighbhood tours. Mural Tours: Evelyn Talarico Clinton Hill Simply Art & Framing Gallery continues its walking tours, highlighting the murals of local folk artist, Evelyn Talarico this Sunday, June 13th (and again on June 20th and 27th). Evelyn's colorful murals of Caribbean sunsets, palm trees and tropical waterfalls, are inspired by her childhood in Puerto Rico. The walking tours of Ms. Talarico's work will continue each Sunday in June, 2pm. Tour starting point: Smiling Faces Day Care (381 Myrtle Avenue, corner of Clermont). Call LB Brown at the Clinton Hill Simply Art & Framing Gallery for further information: 718.857.0074, where additional pieces by Evelyn Talarico are also on display. Whitman's Fort Greene The Fort Greene Park Conservancy, in partnership with The Walt Whitman Project, will present the third of four Poetic Tours of Fort Greene Park: Walt Whitman's Park. While strolling through Fort Greene's verdant jewel, you will enjoy Whitman's prose and poetry. We will conclude this event by walking up Myrtle Avenue to 99 Ryerson Avenue, the last existing building in Brooklyn that was a residence of Walt Whitman. Led by Greg Trupiano, Director of The Walt Whitman Project, the performance will include performers who make Whitman's poems come alive. June 20, 2010 will feature Nicole Mitchell, mezzo-soprano and special guest, tenor. Tour meets 1pm at the Fort Greene Park Visitors' Center. The event is first come, first serve and there is room for approximately 50. Walk up and/or RSVP to 718-391-8824. Rain or Shine.

Myrtle's Make Music NY Schedule Announced

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 12:31:00 -0400

Be sure to visit Myrtle Avenue for Make Music New York, taking place all day on Monday, June 21st. Free music performances will be taking place all around the city, and Myrtle Avenue has performances happening at 12 different spots up and down the corridor, including one location of the "Play Me, I'm Yours" public art project, with an upright piano stationed at the Fort Greene Park plaza at Myrtle & Washington Park for passersby to play anytime from June 21st through July 5th.

Want good school food?

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:00:00 -0400

Then join the Brooklyn Food Coalition on June 5, from 2-4pm at it's free school food training fair at Fort Greene Park.

Meet other parents and educators who are working to improve school food, and the health of Brooklyn's children.

Parents will meet at the field at Myrtle and N. Portland Ave, and the kids are invited to the playground at the corner of Myrtle and St. Edwards Place. The Coalition will provide free supervision and healthy snacks for all children who attend.

For more information, contact the Brooklyn Food Coalition at 347-329-5093 or info[at]brooklynfoodcoalition[dot]org.

Let's Talk Business Seminars @ St. Joseph's College

Mon, 24 May 2010 12:53:00 -0400

Free Small Business Information Seminars at St. Joseph's on Wednesdays: June 16, June 23rd and June 30th, 6-8pm. St. Joseph's College Brooklyn Campus In cooperation with the NYS Small Business Development Center. --June 16th How to Start Your Successful Small Business and its Legal Aspects --June 23rd How to Write a Successful Business Plan and Market Your Business --June 30th How to Finance Your Small Business To register or for additional information about these seminars, contact: John Keenan 718.940.5731 jkeenan@sjcny.edu

Walt Whitman's Fort Greene Park

Fri, 21 May 2010 14:47:00 -0400

The Walt Whitman Project, an arts organization dedicated to producing programs about the life and work of America's great writer Walt Whitman, celebrates the poet's 191th birthday on May 31st and the 150th anniversary of the first publication of Whitman's 'Calamus' poems with a series of events, including on this coming Sunday, May 23rd in Fort Greene Park. May 23, Sunday at 1:00 p.m. "Walt Whitman's Fort Greene Park" A stroll sponsored by Fort Greene Park Conservancy and The Walt Whitman Project Walk around Brooklyn's Fort Greene Park, a greensward that owes its existence in large part to Walt Whitman's editorials written for the Brooklyn Daily Eagle. The afternoon includes readings of Whitman's prose and poetry and discussions about the park, the Wallabout Martyrs and the monument dedicated to their memory. This event will conclude with a walk up Myrtle Avenue to 99 Ryerson, the last existing building in Brooklyn that was a residence of Whitman. Greg Trupiano, Artistic Director of The Walt Whitman Project will be the guide for Sunday's tour. Special guests: Nicole Mitchell, mezzo-soprano & Brandon Snook, tenor. " Meet at the Visitors Center, top of the hill, Fort Greene Park " Enter at Myrtle Avenue, Washington Park, or DeKalb Avenue, Brooklyn " FREE event / rain or shine " Information & Reservations: 718-391-8824 / http://www.whitmanproject.org Walt Whitman's Fort Greene Park is sponsored by the Walt Whitman Project and the Fort Greene Park Conservancy.

Strollin' on Myrtle...art, art and more art this weekend on the Avenue!

Wed, 12 May 2010 12:03:00 -0400

Big weekend on Myrtle for art, artists and art-lovers! The annual SONYA Studio Stroll takes place on Saturday 5/15 and Sunday 5/16, and includes a number of events and stops right here on the avenue. You can download the full Stroll map here, but we'd like to highlight a few for you:

Myrtle Windows Gallery: Make sure to check out the works of featured SONYA artists in 12 storefronts between Hall and Vanderbilt. This exhibition will be up through Tuesday, May 18th.

Myrtle Avenue Bird Town: This colorful installation of 50+ birdhouses at the Carlton Triangle and Fort Greene Park at St. Edwards and Myrtle just arrived a week ago, but it's already the talk of the town! Join the artists for a family-friendly and free(!) birdfeeder-building workshop at the St. Edwards site on Saturday between 10am and 4pm.

Art & Community/Home Away From Home: Childhood friends, Carol Thomas (Just Because Salon owner) and artist, Richard Blackford share their creative expressions and love of community - in Jamaica (home) and Brooklyn (home away from home) in this exhibition. Opening Night Reception at Just Because this Friday evening, May 14th, 7-10pm, at 141 Carlton Avenue with free refreshments. Theyre a stop on the Stroll as well!

Paint the Pavement: Community Roots Charter School and PS 67 have extended their street mural on St. Edwards in front of the school. It's just a few steps from Bird Town, so check it out during your Myrtle visit this weekend!

Myrtle Merchants Host Artist Exhibitions: Sans Souci (330 Myrtle), Green in BKLYN (432 Myrtle), and Tamboril (527 Myrtle) play host to SONYA artists and their works as part of the Studio Stroll.

Celebrate Bird Town @ Sans Souci this Thursday!

Tue, 04 May 2010 15:27:00 -0400

Myrtle Avenue Bird Town has arrived at two locations on Myrtle - Fort Greene Park at St. Edwards Street, and the Carlton Triangle. Join us for and drinks this Thursday, May 6th at Sans Souci (33 Myrtle between Washington Park and Carlton) to celebrate with the town's 'founders', artists Jenn Wong and Daniel Goers.

Check out the artists' website, www.myrtleavenuebirdtown.com, for great photos documenting the building and installation processes. We've also got some great photos on our flickr site too.

Myrtle Windows Gallery celebrates SONYA exhibition at Tamboril this Thursday!

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 12:24:00 -0400

The Myrtle Windows Gallery will host the Prelude Exhibition of SONYA's Studio Stroll from April 29th - May 18th. Come celebrate the opening on Thursday, April 29th, on a guided stroll with SONYA artists beginning at 5:30pm at Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (417 Myrtle Avenue between Vanderbilt and Clinton), culminating at the opening reception at Tamboril (527 Myrtle Avenue between Grand and Steuben), from 6pm to 8pm, with hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar, music, and a video slide show. To RSVP for the guided tour or reception: call 718-705-4911, or email info@sonyaonline.org. Guests are encouraged to linger at Tamboril for the best in Nuevo Latino Cuisine! To make a dinner reservation, please call Tamboril at 718-622-5130.

This is the second of three Myrtle Windows Gallery exhibitions planned for 2010, and each will feature an added bonus for gallery visitors special deals at five featured MWG businesses. Coupons for specials at Jive Turkey, Joseph Tyler Salon, Miracles, Kum Kau, and Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu are included in the newly redesigned Gallery Guide, which will be available at participating merchants beginning April 29th, all located within four blocks: Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (412 Myrtle); Kapellass (417 Myrtle); Connecticut Muffin (423 Myrtle); Karrot (431 Myrtle); Green in BKLYN (432 Myrtle); Jive Turkey (441 Myrtle); Thai 101 (455A Myrtle); Joseph Tyler Salon (456 Myrtle); Anima (458 Myrtle); Kum Kau (462 Myrtle); Miracles Unisex Barber Shop (473A Myrtle); Optimum Care Rehab (474 Myrtle).
This Myrtle Windows Gallery exhibit is sponsored, in part, by the Greater New York Arts Development Fund of the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, administered by the Brooklyn Arts Council, Inc. (BAC).

Brooklyn Salsa Party at Tamboril

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 12:03:00 -0400

This Friday, April 16th, Tamboril (527 Myrtle) is hosting the Brooklyn Salsa Party, with live Afro-Cuban drumming and dancing from 10pm until 3:30am. The kitchen will be open for dinner from 5:30pm to 11pm. Come by and show us your moves! Beginners and salsa pros are all welcome.

For more info, go to www.Brooklyn-Salsa-Party.com.

Myrtle Windows Gallery - last weekend to view and purchase works from "IMPRINT"

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:50:00 -0400

Last chance to view the works in the latest MWG exhibition, "Imprint", which will say goodbye on Wednesday, March 31st! Take advantage of the opportunity to add to your collection - many of these prints are very affordable, some at just $20!

Make sure to stop by Anima to view Nathan Catlin's piece "Knowledge is a Blessing..."(pictured here), and at Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to view "Banana Farmers" (also by the same artist). These pieces are catching people's attention.

Also, don't forget to pick up a gallery guide at participating MWG businesses, since this will also be your last chance to take advantage of specials listed in the brochure at Thai 101, Anima, Kapella's, Green in BKLYN, and Karrot.

Tour Myrtle Windows Gallery this weekend ...

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 14:46:00 -0400

The weather people are forecasting spring weather for this weekend - 50 degrees! That's perfect for an activity, like say, strolling Myrtle and viewing some art? The newest Myrtle Windows Gallery exhibition was installed this week, featuring prints by artists from Pratt. Twelve storefronts between Vanderbilt and Hall feature works by eight artists. Sounds like a great weekend activity!

Photo: Mabuhay Gardens by Sonya Katcher at Karrot

Haiti Earthquake Relief Activities on Myrtle

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 18:18:00 -0400

A growing list of Haiti earthquake relief related activities taking place on Myrtle: BROOKLYN BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU 412 Myrtle Avenue 718.403.0067 Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Donations to the American Red Cross. FORT GREENE SNAP 324 Myrtle Avenue 718.694.6957 Fort Greene SNAP accepting new or gently used socks, candles, bedding, underwear, flashlights as well as checks made out to the American Red Cross accepted thru the end of February. GREEN IN BKLYN 432 Myrtle Avenue 718.855.4383 Green in BKLYN has listed earthquake relief resources on their website as well as put together a hardcopy list for anyone looking for ideas of ways to help. Also, Green in BKLYN is accepting check and money order donations to send to the Red Cross. GREEN PETS SPA & BOUTIQUE 572 Myrtle Avenue 718.230.8300 Green Pets will donate collected funds to Doctors without Borders and Yele Haiti. KAPELLA'S HAIR SALON (open Wednesday thru Saturday only) 417 Myrtle Avenue 718.222.3434 Currently collecting donations for Yele Haiti and socks which will be donated for shipment to Haiti. KAREN'S BODY BEAUTIFUL 436 Myrtle Avenue 718.797.4808 Karens Body Beautiful will help provide relief to victims of the earthquake in Haiti by matching your donations. Increase the power of your donation! (from January 14th January 20th, 2010). Funds to Yele Haiti. LOCKAWAY SELF STORAGE 1 Carlton Avenue (at Flushing) (718) 522-5050 Lockaway is collecting only NEW items thru February 20th: bedding, blankets, underwear, outerwear, shoes, socks, towels. Clearly label items "Relief for Haiti". Donations in conjunction with Fashion Delivers (fashiondelivers.org). MYRTLE CAR SERVICE 525 Myrtle Avenue 718.230.8100 Myrtle Car Service is collecting donations: bottled water, new underwear, socks. ZAYTOONS 472 Myrtle Avenue 718.623.5522 Zaytoons will match customer donations. Increase the power of your donation from Saturday, January 23 and Sunday, January 24th. MOVE WITH GRACE YOGA, DANCE & PILATES STUDIO 469 Myrtle Avenue (Washington/Hall) 718.230.0013 Move With Grace will conduct five donation-based classes this Sunday, 1/17. Funds will go to Yele Haiti and Doctor's without Borders. The studio is also collecting beans and tealights to be shipped to Haiti. All class are open to all levels. 10-11am Alignment based yoga 11:15-12 Belly Dance "The Fun in Fundamentals" 12:-1pm Level 1 Mat Pilates "Explore strengthening the deep core" 1:15-2:15pm Ballet Fitness 2:30-3:30pm Vinyasa Yoga Flow "Focusing on awareness and interconnectedness"

Tuesday Live Music on Myrtle

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 15:13:00 -0400

Tuesday night live music continues on Myrtle. Come out, shop, boogie... December 8th ANIMA ITALIAN BISTRO 458 Myrtle (Waverly/Washington) Global Soul and R&B 718.855.9455 December 15th SANS SOUCI 330 Myrtle (Washington Park/Carlton) Funky Percussion 347.227.8135

Celebrate the Holidays on Myrtle

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:59:00 -0400

Christmas tree and wreath sales are on the way, along with live music on Tuesdays between November 24th and December 15th. Check out the schedule and come on by Myrtle Avenue for your holiday cheer and gift-shopping needs.

UDPATE: The Myrtle Holiday Windows Contest is up and running as of today! Many neighborhood artists were hard at work, painting and decorating Myrtle storefronts this weekend. Take a stroll from Classon to Washington Park to view them all, and vote for your favorite via text message! The voting system only allows one vote per cell phone, so be sure to see them all before casting a vote. Instructions on how to cast your vote are posted in each of the participating windows:

Ray's Barber Shop (331 Myrtle)
Fort Greene SNAP (324 Myrtle)
Sans Souci (330 Myrtle)
Just Because (141 Carlton)
Gnarly Vines (350 Myrtle)
Cleopatra Spa (378 Myrtle)
Kiini Ibura (388 Myrtle)
The Bakery (154 Vanderbilt)
Kapella's (417 Myrtle)
Karen's Body Beautiful (436 Myrtle)
Joseph Tyler Salon (456 Myrtle)
Root Stock & Quade (471 Myrtle)
Zaytoons (472 Myrtle)
Miracles (473A Myrtle)
Optimum Care Rehab (474 Myrtle)
Sandbox (487 Myrtle)
Pillow Cafe (5050 Myrtle)
Green Pets (563 Myrtle)
Wally's Square Root Cafe (584 Myrtle)

MARP Turns 10! Join us on Dec 2nd

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:52:00 -0400

Hope you can join us for our 10th anniversary celebration and fundraiser. Tickets are only $25, and include open bar, food from seven Myrtle restaurants, and music by Bill Lee and his jazz quintet.

Space is limited, and RSVP's are required by Monday, November 30th. Tickets will not be sold at the door.

A direct link to RSVP and purchase tickets is here. If you have trouble with the link, or would prefer to pay by check, please contact Joanna at joanna@myrtleavenue.org.

smART Brooklyn Gallery Hop, this weekend

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:09:00 -0400

smART Brooklyn Gallery Hop, this weekend: Saturday, November 21 & Sunday, November 22nd; 1p-6p Hop on and off the buses and drop nto the galleries to see the exhibitions, meet their friendly, informative staff and see why Brooklyn's art scene is famous. Neophytes or collectors--buyers or browsers--all are welcome. The 'Red Loop' buses loops through Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, including to Myrtle Avenue's own, Clinton Hill Simply Art & Framing Gallery at 583 Myrtle Avenue between Classon and Emerson. Clinton Hill Simply Art & Framing Gallery has served the neighborhood for more than 15 years. For more information, visit visitbrooklyn.org

Big Onion in the Neighborhood, Nov 22

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:56:00 -0400

The award-winning Big Onion Tours, dubbed the finest, most comprehensive and thought provoking tours around, plans its next Fort Greene tour: Sunday, November 22nd at 1pm. Admission: $15/Adults, $12/Seniors & Students Meet: The southeast corner of Flatbush Avenue & Hanson Place, under the large red BAM sign Call the tour hotline for further detail: 212.439.1090.

MARP and 88th Precinct Win MetLife Community-Police Partnership Award

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:24:00 -0400

At an event on Thursday evening, MARP and the 88th Precinct of the NYPD were presented with the MetLife Foundation Community- Police Partnership Award. MARP and the 88th Precinct were honored for their accomplishments in creating a safe environment and spurring economic development and job creation on Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill during their collaboration over the last 10 years.

The Award, sponsored by MetLife Foundation and administered by the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), recognizes partnerships between community development groups and police departments that have reduced crime and spurred housing development, economic activity and improved community services in low and moderate-income communities. April Hawkins, director of civic affairs of MetLife Foundation, presented the awards to MARP and the 88th Precinct, who were selected from more than 650 applicants nationwide. Michael Blaise Backer accepted the award on behalf of MARP and Captain Anthony Tasso was there to receive the award on behalf of the 88th Precinct. The award also came with $25,000 in funding to support MARP's work. Upon accepting the award, Michael Blaise Backer committed to putting $5,000 of the award to the 88th Precinct's summer youth programs.

The event was held at the brand new Myrtle Avenue Caribbean restaurant Sans Souci, located at 330 Myrtle Avenue between Washington Park and Carlton. Elected officials Assemblyman Joseph Lentol, Senator Velmanette Montgomery and Councilwoman Letitia James were there to join in the celebration, as well representatives from MetLife, LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation), Community Board 2, MARP staff and board members, and other community members.

Pictured, left to right: Julia Ryan (LISC), Michael Blaise Backer (MARP), Basil Jones (Sans Souci), Lillie Jones (Sans Souci), April Hawkins (MetLife), Captain Anthony Tasso (88th Precinct)

Community meeting about food access TOMORROW!

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:47:00 -0400

Come out to a community meeting about the availability of fresh, healthy and affordable food in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill this Thursday, November 5 at 6:30pm!

The meeting will take place at the office of the Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project (MARP). This will be an opportunity to voice your concerns and visions for the future, and collaborate with fellow residents to create change.

The office is located at 472 Myrtle Ave., 2nd floor, between Washington and Hall. Press the buzzer labeled MARP when you arrive and you will be let in.

This meeting is a part of ongoing meetings by the Fort Greene/Clinton Hill chapter of the Brooklyn Food Coalition, an effort that is organizing residents borough-wide to ensure that all Brooklynites have consistent access to healthy and affordable food now and for years to come.

For more information, please contact Regina Ginyard: reason9776(at)yahoo(dot)com.

Preservation and Sustainability Program in Fort Greene/Clinton Hill

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:22:00 -0400

Please join the NY Landmarks Conservancy to hear from a group of preservationists and architects who will provide a critical framework and practical advice on sustainability in historic houses. These professionals will discuss their own experiences, highlighting what is successful and what should be rethought, and will answer questions from the audience.

Preservation is Sustainability: How to Make Your Historic House More Energy Efficient

Date: Thursday, Nov. 12 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm
Location: Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church, 85 South Oxford Street, Brooklyn

Speakers:
Walter Sedovic, AIA LEED, Principal & CEO, Walter Sedovic Architects, moderator

Christine Benedict, R.A. ARCHITECTURE AND ENERGY LIMITED

William Neeley, Deputy Director, Preservation, Landmarks Preservation Commission

Rebecca Williams, Program Officer, Northeast Regional Office, National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Tickets: $5.00. Registration Required.
Contact Meral Agish at meralagish@nylandmarks.org or call 212.995.5260 to register.

About the Landmarks Conservancy:
"For over 35 years, the Landmarks Conservancy has promoted the benefits of historic preservation and has become a trusted advocate for preservation policy. In addition, our unique financial assistance and expert technical advice have won national recognition. Since 1973, the Conservancy has provided more than $30 million in low-interest loans and grants, accompanied by countless hours of pro bono technical assistance to countless, non-profits, and caretakers of religious buildings for the maintenance and restoration of historic properties."

This Weekend on Myrtle : Branch Library

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:01:00 -0400

The Branch community library is open this Sunday from 1-5pm in the Citibank lot at the corner of Myrtle and Clinton Avenues. Local residents have donated hundreds of books, including all kinds of great children's books, fiction, and nonfiction. Everyone who signs up for a free Branch library card can borrow books for free (If you checked out books last week, please bring them back on Sunday--they're due!). While you are there you can contribute to the neighborhood memoir made up of your stories: just stop by and write down a memory you have of the neighborhood.

Also this Sunday, local author Karan Mahajan (Family Planning) will give a reading. Check out http://www.karan-mahajan.com/ for more info about Karan's writing.

And next Sunday (the last) Filmmaker Astra Taylor (Examined Life) will be organizing a performance of readings from Branch books and other favorites, and we'll end with a Closing Party. Stay tuned for details! See http://www.hiddendriver.com/ for more info on Astra's work.

For more information, or to volunteer at the library, check out www.branchlibrary.org or just stop by on Sunday!

CANCELLED: Wallabout for Kids (Saturday, October 10)

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 14:34:00 -0400

The Wallabout for Kids Saturday activity has been officially cancelled due to low registration numbers. We apologize to those who have registered and hope to reschedule at a later date. --- It is time for Open House New York again and this year, we have added a children's activity! Children ages 8 thru 13 (and their parents, of course) are invited to take part in a workshop led by long-time youth educator, Paula Jeanine Bennett. Children will learn about the Wallabout area(the history and architecture) through a brief tour and then bring activities inside to put what they just learned into action, sketching and making paper bag models of the built environment. Who: YOU (class is limited to 20 students, ages 8 - 13, so don't delay) When: This Saturday, October 10th-- 10a to 12p For more detail and to register: click here

BikeNY and Branch Community Library take over bank parking lots this Sunday

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:37:00 -0400

This Sunday, the Citibank and Emigrant bank parking lots at Myrtle and Clinton will be converted to public spaces where families can enjoy physical and educational activities! The Emigrant lot will host BikeNY from 11am-2pm with a free workshop for kids on how to ride a two-wheeler safely. See all the details in the flyer here.

The Branch community library is open every Sunday in October from 1-5pm in the Citibank lot at the corner of Myrtle and Clinton Avenues. Local residents have donated hundreds of books, including all kinds of great children's books, fiction, and nonfiction. Everyone who signs up for a free Branch library card can borrow books for free. All month they'll also be creating a neighborhood memoir made up of your stories: just stop by and write down a memory you have of the neighborhood. For more information, or to volunteer at the library, check out www.branchlibrary.org.

A New Farmstand at P.S. 307 Starting this Wednesday!

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:41:00 -0400

This Wednesday, MARP, P.S. 307, the Farragut Tenant Association, the Council on the Environment of NYC and 3 all-star local teens are teaming up to bring the freshest of New York-grown fruits and vegetables to northwest Fort Greene at a new farm stand! Here are the details...

What? Fresh Food at Farragut: A Youth-Run Farm Stand

Where? The playground of P.S. 307, located at 209 York Street across the way from Farragut Houses.

When? Wednesdays in October, 3:30pm-7:30pm, (October 7, 14, 21 & 29). Rain or shine!

This harvest month is a trial run. If the farm stand is successful, we're hoping it will stick around for the full harvest season, July-October of 2010. So if you want to help keep a unique fresh food outlet around and employ our local youth, come out and take a stake in a new fresh food market! Cash/EBT accepted, and please bring your own bag!If you have any questions, feel free to contact sam@myrtleavenue.org.

(Photo: Children's Aid Society Youth Market in the Bronx)

Myrtle Windows Gallery closes its fourth show AND celebrates a fabulous first year this Sunday

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 11:50:00 -0400

If you haven't had a chance to check out the fourth exhibition in the Myrtle Windows Gallery, make sure you do so this weekend! We'll be saying goodbye to this show, curated by Kennis Baptiste of The Rising Arts Gallery, next week. Come out to Tamboril (between Steuben and Grand) on Sunday from 4pm-9pm to celebrate this fantastic show that featured the works of ten Brooklyn artists in our MWG storefronts, as well as inside Pillow Cafe and Tamboril.

So, what did you think of MWG's first year? How did art in storefront windows impact your experience walking down Myrtle? We want to hear from you, so please send us your feedback! You can post comments here, or send them to meredith@myrtleavenue.org. Oh, and while you're touring this exhibition, remember to thank your Myrtle merchants who have generously donated their storefronts for the cause of promoting public art!

Fall Film Series '09 @ the Whitman Library

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 08:03:00 -0400

Free Fall Film Lineup at the Walt Whitman Branch of the BPL. Every Wednesday, 5:30pm - 8:00pm. The Walt Whitman Branch is located at 93 St. Edwards Street, just north of Myrtle. SEPTEMBER 30th FUTURE OF FOOD: documentary on genetically- engineered food issues. (139 mins) OCTOBER 7th SHIRI: a terrorist group stays one step ahead of the Korean police force. (120 mins) 14th WATCHMEN: feature, alien beings try to save humanity from itself. (190 mins) 21st BLINDNESS: feature, whole cities across the nation, suddenly, go blind. (180 mins) 28th DISTRICT 9: looks at how future societies will treat their undesirables. (130 mins) NOVEMBER 4th BLACK ORPHEUS: a timeless Brazilian classic about an impossible love. (128 mins) 11th MOOLAADE: a mother opposes a genital mutilation operation for her daughter. (135 mins) 18th THE BUSINESS OF MAKING A BABY: looks at the costs in childbearing. (131 mins) 25th XALA: a wealthy African businessman tries to take a third wife and is cursed. (124mins) All films take place at the Walt Whitman Branch / Brooklyn Public Library 93 St. Edwards Street off Myrtle Avenue, opposite Fort Greene Park For additional information, contact Carlton Lula, Adult Services Librarian (718-935-0244 or c.lula@brooklynpubliclibrary.org *Note that several of the films explore mature adult themes

Move About Myrtle cancelled due to rain; Brooklyn Urban Arts Market cancelled too

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 08:02:00 -0400

Unfortunately the rain is coming down hard and the hourly forecast calls for more of the same all day. We have therefore decided to cancel today's Move About Myrtle activities, and the street from Clinton to Emerson will remain open to vehicle traffic. As of now, the Brooklyn Urban Arts Market will happen as scheduled on the service road in front of the PrattStore. If there becomes an increased chance of lighting, the market may also need to be cancelled due to all of the sound and electrical equipment used for the performers. Please check back for updates. Update: the Brooklyn Urban Arts Market also had to be cancelled. The heavy rain was severely impacting the stage and sound equipment, and forced the event producer to have to cancel the music and performances.

Move About Myrtle is movin' on after this Sunday. Be there!

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:28:00 -0400

Come close out Move About Myrtle's first season with us this Sunday, September 27th from 11am to 7pm. If you haven't made it out yet, check out what you've missed here.

UPDATE: Salsa classes added!
Bike NY: Kids can learn to ride a two-wheeler!
The Learn to Ride Class - Kids class teaches a safe, easy, effective way to learn to ride. Participants learn the basics of balancing, starting, stopping, and steering a bike, as well as proper helmet fit and adjustment. Most kids will learn to ride their bike while taking the class, but even if they don't, they will leave with an easy, hands-free, crash-free, and low-stress way to learn to ride. The class is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is suggested. Register online at www.bikenewyork.org, or stop by between 11am and 2pm with your bike and helmet! (Myrtle between Emerson and Steuben)

The Truck Farm stops by the food block!
The Truck Farm, a project by Wicked Delicate, combines green roof technology, organic compost and heirloom seeds to create living, mobile garden on the streets of Brooklyn. Check out the time lapse video of the crops progress here. Cmon, we know youre curious. Come check it out from 2pm-4pm! (Myrtle between Hall and Ryerson)

An Arts Carnival presented by Pratt Student Activities
Fun for all ages! Weigh in on an art battle at 12pm, get your face painted, participate in a hula contest, try your hand a chalk drawing, get your caricature done, and pick up a free balloon! All free, beginning at noon! (Myrtle between Ryerson and Grand)

Community Mural-Making with SONYA
Join local artist Ellie Balk and South of the Navy Yard Artists (SONYA) in a collaborative mural-making event! All paint and supplies will be provided. Bring your friends, children, grandparents, neighbors and be ready to get creative and messy as we add color and energy to Myrtle Avenue! This activity takes place between Hall and Ryerson beginning at 11am.

Origami Workshop
Local resident Karen Bishop will lead a free origami workshop on Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly beginning at 11am.

Roller Rink!
Bring your own skates and groove to the sounds from the nearby Brooklyn Urban Arts Market stage. (Myrtle between Emerson and Steuben)

Brooklyn Urban Arts Market
This is an annual open-air market anchored by live music, DIY fashion, and local creative culture, brought you by BAM, Rebel Music Management and MARP. Stage Life Youth DJs open it up at noon, followed by J.U.S. Evolution at 2pm. Dance (or skate) to the old-school jams of DJs Soul Summit at 3pm. Get your trendy back-to-school shopping done too! (Myrtle between Emerson and Grand)

Green Transportation Fun with Livable Streets Education
Livable Streets Education will be leading family-friendly games and activities from 11am-2pm on Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly. Kids can investigate the reasons why pedestrians, cyclists, and mass transit riders help the environment. Families will be able to learn together about carbon footprint, alternative transportation, and innovative street design. They can also learn why Zozo, our big purple friend, loves when we travel "by feet, by train, by bike, by bus!" Activities include educational coloring pages, a large chalk street mural, and a fun 'redesign the street' felt board!

Free dance and yoga classes
Brought to you by local yoga and dance studio Move with Grace, free yoga, dance, and themed dance classes and performances return this week! (Myrtle between Washington and Hall)
Sound provided by DJ A.T. of Many Mansions Media Sound System all day
Performance and art project for children by Trilok Fusion Arts Children's Dance Co. at 11:30am
Kona Luseni, from Viva Salsa Dance Studio 12pm-1pm
Yoga class 2:30pm
Performance by Alice Chapmen Dance Ensemble, time TBA
Belly Dance performance by Mariyah 4:30pm
Belly Dance Class 5-6:30pm

Live Music at La Stalla
Arturo Perez Saad, dance instructor and local resident, will lead classes outside La Stalla at Myrtle and Ryerson at 2:15pm and 4:15pm.

Parks Department's Fitness Unit, hoops, ropes and sidewalk chalk
Every week, were setting out hula hoops, jump ropes and sidewalk chalk so that kids (both young and young at heart) can express themselves. Also this week, the Parks Fitness Unit will join us, bringing the Wii Fit! (Waverly and Washington)

Mmmm&Cooking Demos and Free Tastings!
In front of Associated Supermarket (between Hall and Washington), were setting up a cooking station where healthy food will be prepared by local chefs of all ages! Teen Iron Chefs return (12pm-2pm) to host interactive cooking demonstrations with seasonal, locally grown produce donated by Greenmarket farmers. Taste the fare of soon-to-open Sans Souci, a new Caribbean restaurant on Myrtle between Washington Park and Carlton, from 2pm-4pm.

Composting demos with Brooklyn Compost Project
The Brooklyn Compost Project will disseminate information about composting and will also have a worm bin composting demonstration from 11:30am-6pm, between Hall and Ryerson. The Brooklyn Compost Project is funded by New York City Department of Sanitations (DSNY) Bureau of Waste Prevention, Reuse and Recycling and hosted by Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG).

Plaza Design Workshop
Hopefully youve heard that a new permanent pedestrian plaza is coming to Myrtle between Emerson and Grand, and the design phase has begun. Come share your design ideas, drawings and photos with MARP staffers at our Plaza Design Tent in front of the post office at Myrtle and Grand.

Myrtle Windows Gallery Artist Talk
Beginning at Pillow Café (505 Myrtle)at 4pm, join artists from the current MWG installation on a guided tour of installed works.

The BRANCH Project
The Citibank parking lot at Clinton and Myrtle will be transformed into a temporary library branch, free to everyone! Continuing their outreach which began last week, volunteer designers and librarians from Branch will work with local residents and visitors, kids and adults, to plan and design the space. Come out and tell us how the library should look and what kind of books and activities it should offer. Enjoy our Quiet Zone: relax on lawn chairs with copies of your favorite Sunday paper--and ear-plugs!

Merchant Specials + Promotions
-Enjoy free smoothie samples at Karrot (Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly)
-Come to Green in BKLYN to recycle your batteries and cell phones (Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly)
-Margaritas and Mojitos at La Stalla
-BBQ at Jive Turkey

Thanks to our sponsors: Pratt Institute, Associated Supermarket, and Society for Clinton Hill.

200 FREE TREES THIS SUNDAY - update

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 11:25:00 -0400

Early Friday morning 200 trees were delivered to Myrtle Avenue by the New York Restoration Project and Million Trees NYC and Guess what ?! They were bigger than we expected! Much thanks to Root Stock Quade who not only offered to keep the trees for the giveaway this Sunday but also spent their time and energy unloading and Myrtle Car, who came to the rescue, providing additional holding space. The trees, available through the generous support of Bloomberg Philanthropies and David Rockefeller, will be available to individuals, families and community groups for planting on private property, two trees per household. We have the following species: Eastern Redbud, Sweet Gum, Magnolia, Crab Apple, Callery Pear and Oak. There will also be information available to help guide species selection and a handout describing how and what you need to plant your tree (the list is short - a location, shovel and access to water). The larger trees mean a little more planning will be necessary. If you are coming to claim a tree on Sunday, please arrange for a way to get it home. Each potted tree weighs about thirty pounds, and as you can see in the above images, are around eight feet tall. I also recommend bringing gardening gloves, if you have them. Come before noon to be sure to get a tree. We will have an area set up where you can leave your reserved tree while you enjoy the other events on Myrtle. Bring your friends, your family and neighbors and stop by Myrtle between Ryerson and Grand beginning at 11:30am to pick up your small, potted, transplant-ready trees!

Park(ing) Day Tomorrow - that means TWO temporary parks for Myrtle Ave!

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 19:36:00 -0400

Tomorrow is Park(ing)Day and this year, Myrtle will be celebrating with not one, but TWO temporary public spaces for the Avenue. In case you aren't familiar, Park(ing) Day NYC is an international event that reclaims and reimagines parking spots as mini-parks, engaging public spaces and, as Transporation Alternatives describes, breaths of relief from the auto-clogged reality of New York City that spark dialogue about our valuable public space and how we choose to use it. This will be the third year that the Partnership will participate - you can check out pictures from previous years above and find more on our Flickr. Come out, see the action, enjoy the activities and added green space in the neighborhood and participate in an international car detox and public space appreciation day! Myrtle Parks:

Littlejohn Park
Isaac Littlejohn Eddy , NY Times Local blog cartoon-journalist, will join forces with the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership and move his Fort Greene studio onto the street. At LITTLEJOHN PARK Isaac will be interviewing, illustrating, and animating passersby all day to showcase what it means to be a citizen journalist and a non-fiction cartoonist.
There will be an area with paper and markers at LITTLEJOHN PARK for people to sit, people-watch, and try out a little non-fiction cartooning themselves and a gallery of the work produced throughout the day. Stop by to learn more about non-ficiton cartooning, check out the gallery (updated throughout the day), imagine city life with more open space and relax outside Kiini Ibura and Tres Elegante!
Where: Between Clermont and Vanderbilt
When: 9:00 4:30
Gnarly Vines Park-
Participating for their first year, Gnarly Vines, featuring Kosher Wine & Bike Repairs:an Unorthodox Pairing for Park(ing) Day. Bring your bike and taste some kosher wine! Bike mechanics from Lit Fuse Cyclery (our new neighbors on Willoughby & Walworth) will be hanging out in our Park(ing) spot from 1-4pm to provide a free diagnosis, quick adjustments, tune your wheels and even fix your flat (while supplies last)!
Where: 350 MYRTLE AVE between Carlton & Adelphi
When: 1 - 4

Move About Myrtle Tree Giveaway

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 17:41:00 -0400

This Sunday MARP, in partnership with MillionTreesNYC, the New York Restoration Project and Society for Clinton Hill, will be giving away 200 trees! The trees, available through the generous support of Bloomberg Philanthropies and David Rockefeller, will be available to individuals, families and community groups for planting on private property. In order to spread the tree-love, we are limiting the giveaway to two trees per household. Bring your friends, your family and neighbors and stop by Myrtle between Ryerson and Grand beginning at 11:30am to pick up your small, potted, transplant-ready trees. We will have 1 to 1.5 caliper trees of the following species: Eastern Redbud, Sweet Gum, Magnolia, Crab Apple, Callery Pear and Oak. There will also be information available to help guide species selection and a handout describing how and what you need to plant your tree (the list is short - a location, shovel and access to water). For those who dont know, having a tree on your property increases its value, decreases energy consumption (and utility bills), improves air quality and lowers blood pressure! These are FACTS. Trees also impact your quality of life by creating the perfect setting for shade sitting, book reading, yard playing and spending time with friends and family! In fact, the only thing better than a tree is a FREE TREE! Now available to you, on Myrtle, while supplies last (until 7 pm)! For questions, contact Sarah at 718.230.1689 or sarah@myrtleavenue.org We will not reserve any trees in advance of the event. About MillionTreesNYC: Led by the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation and New York Restoration Project (NYRP), MillionTreesNYC is a citywide, public-private initiative that recognizes the benefits trees provide New York Citys residents, neighborhoods and environment, through an ambitious goal: to plant and care for one million new trees across the Citys five boroughs by 2017.

Move About Myrtle continues this Sunday - 9/20

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:44:00 -0400

Our third Move About Myrtle installment will bring out new community partners, offering exciting free programs for residents of all ages. If you haven't made it out yet, check out what you've missed here.

Community Mural-Making with SONYA
Join local artist Ellie Balk and South of the Navy Yard Artists (SONYA) in a collaborative mural-making event! All paint and supplies will be provided. Bring your friends, children, grandparents, neighbors and be ready to get creative and messy as we add color and energy to Myrtle Avenue! This activity takes place between Hall and Ryerson on September 20th and 27th beginning at 11am.

Tree Giveaway!
In partnership with Society for Clinton Hill, we're giving away 200 (that's right, 200!) trees this weekend courtesy of MillionTreesNY! Stop by Myrtle between Ryerson and Grand beginning at 11:30am to pick up your small, potted tree - ready to be transplanted to your backyard! While supplies last, of course.

Dry Earth Performers: You+Environment+Awareness
Dancers from the ground-breaking collective, Dry Earth, will present excerpts of their movement-based research with a very special performance from noon - 1pm. Their work focuses on using creative movement practices to deepen our connection to the natural environment. Don't miss this unique expression of public art in public space!

Maracatu NY - Brazilian Percussion
Maracatu NY fuses the musical styles of Northeast Brasil with the rhythms of New Orleans' second lines. Check them out at Myrtle and Ryerson outside La Stalla at 2pm.

Origami Workshop
Local resident Karen Bishop will lead a free origami workshop on Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly from 11am-2pm.

Every weekend at Move About Myrtle...
Roller Rink!
Bring your own skates and groove to the sounds from the nearby Brooklyn Urban Arts Market stage. (Myrtle between Emerson and Steuben)

Brooklyn Urban Arts Market
This is an annual open-air market anchored by live music, DIY fashion, and local creative culture, brought you by BAM, Rebel Music Management and MARP. Stage Life Youth DJs open it up at noon, followed by School of Rock All Stars and blkvampires. Dance (or skate) to the old-school jams of DJs Soul Summit at 4pm. Get your trendy back-to-school shopping done too! (Myrtle between Emerson and Grand)

Green Transportation Fun with Livable Streets Education
Livable Streets Education will be leading family-friendly games and activities from 11am-2pm on Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly. Kids can investigate the reasons why pedestrians, cyclists, and mass transit riders help the environment. Families will be able to learn together about carbon footprint, alternative transportation, and innovative street design. They can also learn why Zozo, our big purple friend, loves when we travel "by feet, by train, by bike, by bus!" Activities include educational coloring pages, a large chalk street mural, and a fun 'redesign the street' felt board!

Free dance and yoga classes
Brought to you by local yoga and dance studio Move with Grace, free yoga, dance, and themed dance classes and performances return this week! (Myrtle between Washington and Hall)
Join teachers Grace, Gina & Elyse, featuring Singer Nucomme, DJ AT & Hard Hittin' Harry for the Mala Yoga International Day of Peace (in Brooklyn)
12pm - 1pm Yoga class
2pm-5pm Uniting Yoga Around the World: 108 sun salutations in unison with studios around the world! Bring your friends and family along for this day of Peace, Community & Charity!
Do you have to do all 108 Sun Salutations? No, but the challenge is motivating! The event will also include inspirational Readings, live music from Singer NUCOMME at 3pm and the friendly vibes from people in your community.
Mats: Bring an extra layer and mat or rent ours for $2
Suggested Donation (sliding scale): $10-$20, with proceeds going to Harpswell Foundation Scholarship for Children in Cambodia.

Hoops, ropes and sidewalk chalk
Every week, were setting out hula hoops, jump ropes and sidewalk chalk so that kids (both young and young at heart) can express themselves.(NOTE: these activities are moving to Myrtle between Waverly and Washington this weekend)

Mmmm&Cooking Demos and Free Tastings!
In front of Associated Supermarket (between Hall and Washington), were setting up a cooking station where healthy food will be prepared by local chefs of all ages! Teen Iron Chefs return (12pm-2pm) to host interactive cooking demonstrations with seasonal, locally grown produce donated by Greenmarket farmers. Taste the fare of soon-to-open Sans Souci, a new Caribbean restaurant on Myrtle between Washington Park and Carlton, from 2pm-4pm.

Myrtle Windows Gallery Artist Talk
Beginning at Pillow Café (505 Myrtle)at 4pm, join artists from the current MWG installation on a guided tour of installed works.

The BRANCH Project
The Citibank parking lot at Clinton and Myrtle will be transformed into a temporary library branch, free to everyone! Continuing their outreach which began last week, volunteer designers and librarians from Branch will work with local residents and visitors, kids and adults, to plan and design the space. Come out and tell us how the library should look and what kind of books and activities it should offer. Enjoy our Quiet Zone: relax on lawn chairs with copies of your favorite Sunday paper--and ear-plugs!

Merchant Specials + Promotions
-Enjoy free smoothie samples at Karrot (Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly)
-Come to Green in BKLYN to recycle your batteries and cell phones (Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly)
-Margaritas and Mojitos at La Stalla
-BBQ at Jive Turkey

Stay tuned for these programs at upcoming Move About Myrtle events....

...Parks Departments Wii Fit Mobile Unit!
...A mobile farm in the back of a truck!
...Bike safety lessons for kids from Bike NY
...and much more!

Thanks to our sponsors: Pratt Institute, Associated Supermarket, and Society for Clinton Hill.

Check out the lineup for Move About Myrtle on September 13th!

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:18:00 -0400

Make sure you stop by Myrtle's fantastic temporary pedestrian space! Just three Sundays remain in September! Remember its all free!

Roller Rink!
The NYC Parks Department is bringing out their Skate Mobile Unit this weekend from 11am-5pm. The unit contains tons of skates that visitors can use for free in the designated roller rink area! Or, bring your own skates and groove to the sounds from the nearby Brooklyn Urban Arts Market stage. (Myrtle between Emerson and Steuben)

Brooklyn Urban Arts Market
This is an annual open-air market anchored by live music, DIY fashion, and local creative culture, brought you by BAM, Rebel Music Management and MARP. Stage Life Youth DJs open it up at noon, followed by local favorite Tamar Kali at 3pm. Dance (or skate) to the old-school jams of DJs Soul Summit at 4pm. Get your trendy back-to-school shopping done too! (Myrtle between Emerson and Grand)

Green Transportation Fun with Livable Streets Education
Livable Streets Education will be leading family-friendly games and activities from 11am-2pm on Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly. Kids can investigate the reasons why pedestrians, cyclists, and mass transit riders help the environment. Families will be able to learn together about carbon footprint, alternative transportation, and innovative street design. They can also learn why Zozo, our big purple friend, loves when we travel "by feet, by train, by bike, by bus!" Activities include educational coloring pages, a large chalk street mural, and a fun 'redesign the street' felt board!

Free dance and yoga classes
Brought to you by local yoga and dance studio Move with Grace, free yoga, dance, and themed dance classes and performances return this week! (Myrtle between Washington and Hall)
Creative Movements(ages 4+up or 2.5-3 with caretaker) 11:30am
Ballet Fitness (adults) 1-2pm
Yoga (Basics) 2:30-3:30pm
Hip Hop/House Dance (tentative) 4-5pm

Hoops, ropes and sidewalk chalk
Every week, were setting out hula hoops, jump ropes and sidewalk chalk so that kids (both young and young at heart) can express themselves.(Myrtle between Ryerson and Steuben)

Mmmm&Cooking Demos and Free Tastings!
In front of Associated Supermarket (between Hall and Washington), were setting up a cooking station where healthy food will be prepared by local chefs of all ages! Teen Iron Chefs return (12pm-2pm) to host interactive cooking demonstrations with seasonal, locally grown produce donated by Greenmarket farmers. Taste the fare of soon-to-open Sans Souci, a new Caribbean restaurant on Myrtle between Washington Park and Carlton, from 2pm-4pm.

Define a healthy future with Asthma Free School Zone
Join us to make fortune-tellers and brainstorm ways in which we can all participate in cleaning up our communities and our environment! AFSZ is a non-profit organization that works to improve air quality in and around NYC schools in order to reduce asthma-related absenteeism and improve quality of life.

NY Transit Museum brings Last Day on Myrtle exhibit to Myrtle
In celebration of a new exhibit at the New York Transit Museum of Theresa Kings photographs, Last Day on the Myrtle, the Archivist from the Museum will have a table set up between Clinton and Waverly on September 13th with historic photographs from the archives of the elevated line in service and its demolition. The Myrtle Avenue elevated line began operation in April 1888. The elevated line from Broadway to Jay Street was discontinued at midnight on Saturday, October 4, 1969 and was demolished the following year. Please come by and share your stories and learn more about the history of the elevated line!

Myrtle Windows Gallery Artist Guided Tours
Beginning at Pillow Café (505 Myrtle)at 4pm, join artists from the current MWG installation on a guided tour of installed works.

Composting demos with Brooklyn Compost Project
The Brooklyn Compost Project will disseminate information about composting and will also have a worm bin composting demonstration from 11:30am-6pm, between Hall and Ryerson. The Brooklyn Compost Project is funded by New York City Department of Sanitations (DSNY) Bureau of Waste Prevention, Reuse and Recycling and hosted by Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG).

The BRANCH Project
The Citibank parking lot at Clinton and Myrtle will be transformed into a temporary library branch, free to everyone! Continuing their outreach which began last week, volunteer designers and librarians from Branch will work with local residents and visitors, kids and adults, to plan and design the space. Come out and tell us how the library should look and what kind of books and activities it should offer. Enjoy our Quiet Zone: relax on lawn chairs with copies of your favorite Sunday paper--and ear-plugs!

Merchant Specials + Promotions
-Enjoy free smoothie samples at Karrot (Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly)
-Come to Green in BKLYN to recycle your batteries and cell phones (Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly)
-Margaritas and Mojitos at La Stalla
-BBQ at Jive Turkey

Stay tuned for these programs at upcoming Move About Myrtle events....

...Were giving away 200 trees courtesy of MillionTreesNY
...Participate in a community mural project with artists from SONYA
...Design Workshops for the upcoming Myrtle Avenue Pedestrian Plaza
...Parks Departments Wii Fit Mobile Unit!
...A mobile farm in the back of a truck!
...Bike safety lessons for kids from Bike NY
...and much more!

Thanks to our sponsors: Pratt Institute, Associated Supermarket, and Society for Clinton Hill.

Did you Move About Myrtle last weekend?

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 15:40:00 -0400

On a beautiful summer/fall afternoon last Sunday, local Clinton Hill and Fort Greeners turned out in droves to participate in Move About Myrtle. We danced, we hula hooped, we shopped, and we skated. We sampled healthy local foods. We imagined a new outdoor library space. We celebrated local artists. We cheered on cheese steak-eating champions. Here's the evidence.

Will you join us next weekend? Stay tuned for the 9/13 schedule!

More on this Sunday's schedule - Five Spot's Anniversary & Explore Myrtle Avenue

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 15:03:00 -0400

Explore Myrtle Avenue returns at Move About Myrtle this Sunday! EMA is a contest aimed at getting both our local residents, as well as first time visitors, to explore the length of Myrtle Avenue to check out some of those businesses you didn't even know were there. How do you play? It's simple! Just pick up a game card, spend $10 at five or more businesses to collect stickers, and return your card to us. Your completed card is an entry into a drawing for one of four Myrtle Avenue Shopping Sprees valued at $400! Improve your odds by entering up to 4 times. Pick up your card at Move About Myrtle, or at any of these participating businesses beginning on Sunday:
abistro, Anima, Duncan's Fish Market, Falafel House, Jive Turkey, La Stalla, Myrtle Thai, Wally's Square Root Cafe, Tamboril, Karen's Body Beautiful, Move With Grace, Polish Bar Brooklyn, Barking Brown, Gnarly Vines, Green in BKLYN, Green Pets, Karrot, NYCPet.com, Root Stock & Quade, and Sandbox
Also at Move About Myrtle, Five Spot (459 Myrtle) will be celebrating its 13th anniversary with the inaugural Five Spots Famous Philly Cheese Steak Fest" to see who can eat the most Philly Cheese Steaks in 10 minutes. There is $1000 up for grabs! For more information and registration visit IFOCE.com. Please spread the word&and lets see who is the Philly Cheese Steak King of New York!!! Five Spot has a full day of entertainment planned as well! Here's the full schedule:
11am-2pm DJ C2 & DJ Tek spinning classic R&B and hip hop
2pm-3pm Sims Comic Review, Robert Stringer (horn commencement)
3pm Philly Cheesesteak Eating Competition (1st prize-$600, 2nd prize-$300, 3rd prize-$100)
4pm Tinkerbelle w/ Nate Jones on Bass and Friends
5pm DJ C2 & DJ TEK spinning soul, funk & hip hop
After party inside: Tinkerbelle & the Super Swaggers, Open mic for soul singers, $5 cocktails, $5 cover, 9pm showtime. Go to www.fivespotsoulfood.com for more information!

Move About Myrtle more programs added for September 6th!

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:18:00 -0400

Trust us, Myrtle Avenue is where youll want to be this Sunday! Just take a look at the updated lineup for Move About Myrtles kick-off event on September 6th from 11am-7pm...

Myrtle Windows Gallery Opening Reception
Come celebrate the newest installation in the Myrtle Windows Gallery series at Pillow Café (505 Myrtle) from 4pm-8pm. The reception is free, and light refreshments will be available! Meet and support local Brooklyn artists!

The BRANCH Project
The Citibank parking lot at Clinton and Myrtle will be transformed into a temporary library branch, free to everyone! On September 6th, volunteer designers and librarians from Branch will work with local residents and visitors, kids and adults, to plan and design the space. Come out and tell us how the library should look and what kind of books and activities it should offer. Enjoy our Quiet Zone: relax on lawn chairs with copies of your favorite Sunday paper--and ear-plugs!

Free Screen-Printed Tote Bags by Pratts Pressure Print Collective
Pratts printmakers will be silk screening LIVE onto canvas tote bags that will be given away to the visitors (while supplies last)! Support sustainability by picking up a reusable shopping bag at Move About Myrtle (between Ryerson and Grand, beginning at noon)

Brooklyn Urban Arts Market & Roller Rink!
The Brooklyn Urban Arts Market returns! This annual open-air market anchored by live music, DIY fashion, and local creative culture. Rock out with youth band School of Rock All Stars at noon, or dance to the old-school jams of DJs Soul Summit at 3pm. A temporary roller rink (which has a special guest co-sponsor this week the Clinton Hill Blog )will bring some additional throw back flavor to this years events. Get your trendy back-to-school shopping done too with local favorites like Harriets Alter Ego and Coup dEtat Brooklyn (Myrtle between Emerson and Grand).

Free dance and yoga classes
Brought to you by local yoga and dance studio Move with Grace , this block will feature free yoga, dance, and themed dance parties on each of the four Sundays. The first Sunday includes free yoga classes at noon and 2:30, African Dance with drummers(4pm) and Caribbean Flag Celebration! (Myrtle between Washington and Hall)(Mom and Me class has been cancelled for this week)

Hoopdancing Class for All Ages!
For kids (and the inner child in all of us), Myrtle between Ryerson and Grand (note change in location) in front of the Post Office will be devoted to good old-fashioned fun! Street games (think: four square), hula hoops, jump ropes, and sidewalk chalk will be on hand for open use throughout the day. From 1pm-3pm, take part in a free Hoopdancing Class with Fitnotic trainer Sheryl Wilson. Learn a few tricks and get a great workout!

Mmmm&Cooking Demos and Free Tastings!
In front of Associated Supermarket (between Hall and Washington), were setting up a cooking station where all kinds of healthy food will be prepared by local chefs of all ages! Teen Iron Chefs (12pm-2pm) will be hosting interactive cooking demonstrations with seasonal, locally grown produce donated by Greenmarket farmers. Taste the fare of soon-to-open Sans Souci, a new Caribbean restaurant on Myrtle between Washington Park and Carlton, from 2pm-4pm.

('Greening Your Urban Jungle...a workshop for Your Budding Concrete Cultivator' has been cancelled, unfortunately.)

Merchant Specials + Promotions
-Five Spot is hosting an eating competition (food category still TBD) and music throughout the day outside the restaurant to celebrate their 13th Anniversary (Myrtle at Washington)
-Enjoy free smoothie samples at Karrot (Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly)
-Come to Green in BKLYN to recycle your batteries and cell phones (Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly)
-Learn how to make your own pesto at Anima (Myrtle between Washington and Waverly)
-NYCPet.com is providing a treats and a pet pool so that your animal friends can enjoy themselves too (Myrtle at Washington)

Stay tuned for these programs at upcoming Move About Myrtle events....
...Parks Department Mobile Units featuring free skates and the Wii Fit!
...New York Transit Museum brings historic photos from their collection to preview their upcoming Myrtle Avenue El exhibit, "Last Day of the Myrtle Avenue El: Photographs by Theresa King," opening on September 29th. (A preview here in the NYTimes Local blog.)
...Design Workshops for the upcoming Myrtle Avenue Pedestrian Plaza
...Recycled arts & crafts projects with Livable Streets Education
...A mobile farm in the back of a truck!
...Bike safety lessons for kids from Bike NY
...and much more!

Thanks to our sponsors: Pratt Institute, Associated Supermarket, and Society for Clinton Hill.

Free Film in Fort Green Park this Thursday: P-Star Rising

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:46:00 -0400

P-Star herself is scheduled to perform before the screening! Make sure to catch it, you won't be disappointed. Here's the synopsis of the documentary:
"At age 9, Priscilla, an adorable yet precocious little girl, tells her single-father, Jesse,: I am going to become a rapper and fulfill your dreams of succeeding in the music business. Moved by Priscillas passion and impressed with her natural talent and undeniable charisma, he begins to teach P-Star all he knows about rapping."

Where: On the lawn of Fort Greene Park/North Portland and Myrtle Avenue, Ft. Greene, Brooklyn
When: Thursday, September 3
8:30PM - Live music performance by P-Star
9:00PM - Film
10:30PM - Filmmaker Q & A
Admission: FREE
Rain: In the event of rain, the screening will be rescheduled for September 10th.

Presented by: Cinereach, New York magazine, Verizon Fios and Council Member Letitia James. Visit www.rooftopfilms.com for more details!

Myrtle Windows Gallery is back! Celebrate the opening at Pillow on Sunday 9/6 at 4pm!

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 17:48:00 -0400

The 4th Myrtle Windows Gallery installation arrives this Wednesday, courtesy of Kennis Baptiste of The Rising Arts Gallery, who curated the exhibition.

This collection includes paintings, photographs, printmaking, and mixed media artwork, providing a glimpse of the diverse range of creative style and visual presentation found in Brooklyn artists. Check out "Crossed Museum" by Noah McLaurine at Three Starts Laundromat (pictured here on the left) and Silence by Jake Messing at Joseph Tyler Salon (pictured on the right). Of course, there will be work displayed in eight additional storefronts, and additional works by all artists at Pillow Cafe, beginning September 6th through October 4th.

Celebrate the opening with the artists at Pillow (505 Myrtle between Emerson & Grand) on Sunday, September 6th from 4pm-8pm during the kick-off Move About Myrtle event! The reception is FREE, and light refreshments will be available for your enjoyment! Also, take advantage of these opportunities to hear about the works directly from their creators:

Artist Guided Tour: September 13th & 20th, 4pm (begins at Pillow)
Artist Talk: September 27th, 4pm 7pm (at Pillow)
Closing Reception: October 4th, @ 6pm 9pm (at Tamboril 527 Myrtle)

Move About Myrtle 9/6 highlight: Healthy and Delicious!

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 09:56:00 -0400

All that moving about Myrtle is bound to make you hungry. Fortunately, weve devoted an entire block to that essential and delicious life-force: FOOD. At the first Move About Myrtle event, September 6th, take a walk around the food block, between Hall and Ryerson, where youll be surrounded by all kinds of fresh food and food-related activities.

Weve got 2 excellent and engaging cooking demonstrations to keep you fed and informed. From 12pm-2pm, the Teen Iron Chefs (pictured here) from Family Cook Productions will be turning out interactive lessons on healthy cooking and living. Aspiring young chefs are especially welcome!

Then from 2pm-4pm, well have the newest addition to our crew of neighborhood chefs, Basil Jones of the forthcoming Sans Souci Restaurant & Bar (330 Myrtle Avenue), demonstrating simple, healthy meals inspired by his Caribbean roots. Mouth watering yet?

Meanwhile, weve got 3 other activities occurring all day long. On the northern side of the block, the Fort Greene CSA is "eating in" with a picnic potluck to raise awareness and action around getting more real food in our young peoples schools. Blankets will be abundant, along with friendly people and homemade food to share. On the other side of the same block, local food activist and entrepreneur, Tree Williams of LiveSip will be hosting a garden activity, engaging passersby in seed planting and saving activities, composting, and other home gardening strategies to ensure participants walk away ready to grow all kinds of delicious food and native plants in and around their homes. Free starter supplies will be available!

Lastly, keep an eye out for our own Sam Lipschultz, who will be armed with interactive food access surveys. The surveys are a part of a community-wide food access assessment, which the Partnership is spearheading this fall with students at Banneker High School. We're looking to identify the core issues and resources in our community in relation to food access, to inform the design of future food access initiatives in the neighborhood. Bring your ideas!

Of course, all of your favorite Myrtle restaurants are cooking up specials for Move About Myrtle, too. Don't miss Jive Turkey's sidewalk barbecue, Anima's "Make your own pesto" demos, and Yamashiro's outdoor sushi bar (just to name a few).

Special thanks to Associated for co-sponsoring activities on the Move About Myrtle food block.

Move About Myrtle - Starts Sunday, Sept 6th!

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:43:00 -0400

UPDATE: Click here for the most up-to-date schedule for Sunday, September 6th!

We're starting off with a bang! Move About Myrtle kicks off on September 6th with a jam-packed schedule of free activities, music, and merchant specials, and were adding more every week. Make sure to visit our website for the most up-to-date schedule of activities for each date.

In case you're just hearing about this for the first time...Move About Myrtle will transform Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill into an active, temporary pedestrian friendly public space between Clinton and Emerson perfect for walking, cycling, dancing, and people-watching! From 11am to 7pm each Sunday in September, the commercial corridor will become a neighborhood plaza, all organized with the help of local community groups and Myrtle merchants.

Heres a block-by-block summary of the activities planned for September 6th:

Emerson Grand
The Brooklyn Urban Arts Market returns! This annual open-air market anchored by live music, DIY fashion, and local creative culture. Rock out with youth band School of Rock All Stars at noon, or dance to the old-school jams of DJs Soul Summit at 3pm. A temporary roller rink will bring some additional throw back flavor to this years events. Get your trendy back-to-school shopping done too. Brought to you by MARP, Rebel Music Management, BAM, Deutsche Bank.

Hall-Ryerson
Celebrate local farmers, local restaurants and local food initiatives with your neighbors on Myrtle between Hall and Ryerson, a block dedicated entirely to a delicious topic: food.

12pm -3pm CSA Potluck Picnics -With blankets and home-cooked food in tow, the Fort Greene CSA will be taking over a plot of the food block each week to host potluck picnics open to all. The first potluck will be an eat-in to raise awareness and take action for real food in our schools, and initiative championed by Slow Food USA.

12pm 2pm Teen Iron Chefs - Every Sunday, a small crew of local teens will be hosting interactive cooking demonstrations with seasonal, locally grown produce donated by Greenmarket farmers.

4pm 6pm Local Chef Cooking Demonstrations-Chefs from newly-opened Myrtle restaurant SanSouci will showcase their tasty Caribbean fare.

All day: Raised Garden Bed Construction - Local food activist Tree Williams from LiveSip will host an all day interactive eventconstructing and planting a mobile raised bed garden to be donated at the end of the day.

Washington Hall
Brought to you by local yoga and dance studio Move with Grace , this block will feature free yoga, dance, and themed dance parties on each of the four Sundays. The first Sunday includes:

11am Mom and Me Yoga Bring your mat!
1pm African Dance with drummers s Bring your rhythm!
4pm Caribbean Celebration Bring your flag!

Waverly Clinton
For kids (and the inner child in all of us), this block will be devoted to good old-fashioned fun! Street games (think: four square), hula hoops, jump ropes, and sidewalk chalk will be on hand for open use throughout the day.

1pm-3pm Hoopdancing Class- Join Fitnotic trainer Sheryl Wilson, CPT, for a free beginners' class in hoopdancing - the latest fitness craze sweeping NYC! Class is appropriate for children and adults of all ages. In addition to hoopdancing instruction, Fitnotic specializes in prenatal, postnatal and mommy & me group fitness classes and personal training programs. Learn a few tricks and get a great workout!

Merchant Specials + Promotions

Five Spot is hosting an eating competition (food category still TBD) and music throughout the day outside the restaurant to celebrate their 13th Anniversary (Myrtle at Washington)

Enjoy free smoothie samples at Karrot (Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly)

Come to Green in BKLYN to recycle your batteries and cell phones (Myrtle between Clinton and Waverly)

Learn how to make your own pesto at Anima (Myrtle between Washington and Waverly)

NYCPet.com is providing a treats and a pet pool so that your animal friends can enjoy themselves too (Myrtle at Washington)

Myrtle Windows Gallery - New Works

4pm-8pm Opening Reception at Pillow Cafe (Myrtle between Ryerson and Grand?
Celebrate the opening of the fourth Myrtle Windows Gallery installation, which brings the works of local artists to storefront windows on Myrtle between Hall and Clinton. This exhibition is curated by Kennis Baptiste of The Rising Arts Gallery, and includes photography, paintings and multi-media works.

Interested in helping out? Well need a small army of volunteers to make this happen, and were lucky to have partnered with NY Cares for all four events. If youre interested in helping out -- and believe us, it wont be possible without you give Meredith a shout at Meredith@myrtleavenue.org.

Thanks to our sponsors: Pratt Institute, Associated, and Society for Clinton Hill.

Brooklyn Urban Arts Market returns this September!

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Party and shop locally through out September! The Brooklyn Urban Arts Market returns to Clinton Hill on all four Sundays this September, taking place on Myrtle Avenue between Emerson and Grand near the PrattStore. This is Brooklyns answer to those commonplace street fairs that take place in Manhattan this open-air market will house 50 local artisans, vendors, and entrepreneurs hand-selected for their innovative creations, fresh urban perspective and DIY spirit.

The music is back too, and were happy to report that local favorites Soul Summit will spin the closing set at every event! Were bringing back live music too, with a special treat for the kids each event will kick off with a youth band, including the School of Rock All Stars! A full listing of the music line-up is at www.bam.org.

Weve added a new dimension to this years event were actually closing 7 blocks on Myrtle Avenue from Emerson to Clinton as part of DOTs Weekend Walks Initiative. Move About Myrtle will take place at the same time as BUAM, and will transform the Clinton Hill portion of Myrtle into an active, pedestrian-friendly public space perfect for walking, cycling, dancing, and people-watching.

As if Move About Myrtle isn't enough, you can be sure that we'll be working to help our existing merchants take advantage of this flurry of foot traffic weve got a number of plans in the works to get our visitors to travel the avenue, including the distribution of our new shopping guide and the Explore Myrtle Avenue shopping scavenger hunt (more on that soon).

Are you interested in vending at the Market? Click here to download an application. The deadline has been extended, but spaces are filling up quickly so apply now!

Major funding for the Brooklyn Urban Arts Market was generously provided by Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation.

Myrtle Avenue becomes Clinton Hill's backyard this September!

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 17:48:00 -0400

On all four Sundays in September, Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill will transform into an active, pedestrian friendly public space perfect for walking, cycling, dancing, and people-watching! Weve partnered with DOT's Weekend Walks to create Move About Myrtle, bringing together residents, merchants and visitors in celebration of community and public space on Myrtle between Clinton and Emerson. From 11am to 7pm each Sunday, the commercial corridor will become a temporary neighborhood plaza complete with FREE music, workshops, performance, games, arts and much more -- all organized with the help of local community groups and Myrtle merchants. Stroll just a little further down Myrtle on the same days to the Brooklyn Urban Arts Market, an annual open-air market anchored by live music, DIY fashion, and local creative culture.

Interested in helping out? Move About Myrtle provides a wonderful opportunity to support your community! Please email Meredith@myrtleavenue.org if youd like to spend a few hours to help make these events a success. Believe us, it wont be possible without you! We need help spreading the word (flyering, postering, blogging) before the event, and there are endless coordination tasks on event days where assistance would be much appreciated!

Have a special skill or talent that youd like to share with your neighbors? Maybe youre an acoustic musician or dance instructor, or maybe youve got a knack for arts & crafts with recycled materials. If you have an idea for a program or activity, please let us know! Wed love to have you. Local energy and talent will be what truly makes this a community-centered event.

Would you organization like to participate? Local organizations can sponsor a block by supporting and/or organizing activities to take place there, and by assisting with event promotion. Email us your suggestions! Send all ideas and volunteer inquiries to Meredith@myrtleavenue.org.

Just a teaser of planned activities&
" Street DJs and Roller Rink (thats right, were working on creating a temporary roller rink!)
" Family-friendly performances
" Kids' activities and street games, contests
" Yoga, dance and bicycle safety classes
" Outdoor dining and shopping
" A Food Block featuring cooking demos, tastings, and nutrition workshops
" A History Block featuring activities led by the NY Transit Museum, and a Time Capsule collection point
" An Arts Block featuring live art making, and print-making

It's time for the annual Afro Punk Block Party - see you this Sunday!

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:00:00 -0400

You don't want to miss the annual Afro Punk Block Party, which takes place this Sunday on Clinton between Myrtle and Willoughby from 12pm - 8pm! Live music, DJs, fashion, dancing, facepainting, people-watching...there's something for everyone. This year we have over 50 vendors offering DIY fashion, accessories, beauty products, art and more. Stop by if you're hungry too, there'll be food from local fave Tamboril and the newly-opened Falafel House, or satifsy your sweet tooth with delicious desserts from The Bakery and The Chocolate Muffin. Maybe even some fresh juice and lemonade and vegan delights... Find out more about Afro Punk here. As the event coordinators, we could use a few extra hands at various points throughout the day. Contact meredith@myrtleavenue.org if you'd like to help us out.

What's on your plate? BAM and Afro Punk bring free film to Fort Greene Park this Saturday

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:52:00 -0400

This Saturday at 9pm, celebrate BAM Cinematek's 10th Anniversary and kick off the Afro Punk Festival with a free film at Fort Greene Park! The film, "What's on your plate?", is a thought-provoking and entertaining documentary about kids, food and politics. Bring a blanket and claim your spot on the grass early!

Here's the synopsis:
Safiyah and Sadie are two 11-year old African-American girls growing up in New York City. Over the course of a year filmaker Catherine Gund follows them as they start to ask - and answer - questions about the food on their plate. Where does it come from? What's in it? Why is it so hard to get healthy meals into schools and what will happen if we don't? Photo credit: www.bam.org www.bam.org

Local school's SummerFest features a taste of Myrtle Avenue - June 20th

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:37:00 -0400

On June 20th, the 2nd Annual SummerFest at the Urban Assembly Academy of Arts & Letters will celebrate its students, summer, and community!

Free and open to the public, SummerFest invites all to this outdoor festival featuring an exhibition of student artwork, student performances, face painting, and games for all ages, including a dunk tank!

Enjoy our "Taste of Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Food Fest" with food from Myrtle Avenue favorites like Kum Kau, Ruthies and Chez Lola, as well as many other local eateries: Bacchus, Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, Chez Chez Oscar, Graziella's, Habana Outpost, iCi, Island Pride Restaurant, Kif, La Villa Pizzeria & Restaurant, Mont Blanc Dessert, Olea Mediterranean Taverna, Red Bamboo, Roosters Chicken Rotisserie, and Steve's Authentic Key Lime Pies.

Raffle items include a Park Slope YMCA family membership, a Giants football jacket signed by Carl Banks, 2 i-Pod nano's, and a digital camera! Wow!

When: Saturday, June 20th, 2009 from Noon to 3:00pm

Where: The Urban Assembly Academy of Arts & Letters, 225 Adelphi St, Brooklyn, NY 11205 (between Dekalb and Willoughby in Fort Greene)

Visit the school's website, www.uaaal.org for more info.

Interested in vending at this year's Afro Punk Block Party?

Tue, 26 May 2009 17:26:00 -0400

Click here to apply to vend at the summer's best local bash - the annual Afro Punk Block Party on Sunday, July 12th. We're looking for local, home-based vendors and entrepreneurs creating fashion, jewelry, art, accessories and more to participate in this year's event, which takes place on Clinton Avenue between Myrtle and Willoughby. Limited 10' x 10' vendor spaces are available, so act fast to confirm your spot and take advantage of the recession-friendly early bird rate of $75!

Paint the Pavement - check out the vid!

Wed, 20 May 2009 09:34:00 -0400

We were just thrilled to be a part of this fantastic public art project that brought together Livable Streets Education, Community Roots Charter School, P.S. 67 and local muralist extraordinaire Ellie Balk to create a street mural for the community of St. Edwards Street. This mural is the first of its kind in the city, and the very first project under the Department of Transportation's "Arterventions" program.

Check out the fantastic Streetsblog video of the project, or visit Flickr for highlights of the day, including a performance by the precious P.S. 67 cheering squad.

4th Annual Jewels and Jazz @ Kiini Ibura

Wed, 06 May 2009 17:45:00 -0400

Kiini Ibura proudly presents the 4th annual pre-Mother's Day Jewels and Jazz event. Shopping from 11:30am until 8:30pm. Music set featuring spoken word artist and vocalist, Gha'il Rhodes Benjamin, begins at 5:00pm. Stop by on Saturday, May 9th: 388 Myrtle Avenue (btwn Vanderbilt & Clermont) or for more info call 718.858.5195. Light refreshments will be served

Meet Me Under the BQE

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 17:12:00 -0400

It was surprisingly cool under the BQE on our first 80 degree day, as over 75 people turned out for our first workshop looking at creative uses for the space beneath the BQE. The Spacebuster, our temporary inflatable home, played a perfect host for the community gathering, and attracted area residents and curious passersby.

Browse the photos below, and check back soon for a compilation of ideas from the workshop.

Update: here are some conceptual drawings from workshop attendees:

...and some birds-eye views of the site:

Sunday Tour: Walt Whitman's Fort Greene

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 14:53:00 -0400

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 Whitman-inspired song by the American Opera Projects, readings of Whitman's prose and poetry and discussions about the park, the Wallabout Martyrs and the monument dedicated to their memory, and Brooklyn Hospital. This event will conclude with a walk up Myrtle Avenue to 99 Ryerson Street, the last existing building in Brooklyn that was a residence of Walt Whitman. Several Myrtle Avenue merchants have lunch discounts exclusively for tour participants. Your guide is Greg Trupiano, Artistic Director of The Walt Whitman Project and AOP Artistic Partner for Outreach/Education. April 26, 2009, Sunday at 2:00 p.m. " Meet at the Visitors Center, Top of the Hill, Fort Greene Park " Enter at Myrtle Avenue, Washington Park, or DeKalb Avenue, Brooklyn " FREE event / rain or shine " Information & Reservations (limited to 25 people): 718-391-8824

You + ideas + SPACE BUSTER on April 25!

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:33:00 -0400

The area under the BQE has long been seen as an eyesore its dark, dirty and generally, well, unpleasant. If youre like us, youve probably looked at that area and thought, Look at all that space! That would be the perfect place for ______. We want to hear your ideas!

Join us on April 25th for a community workshop under the BQE.

Thats right, we said UNDER THE BQE.

The workshop will take place inside the SpaceBuster, in the area under the BQE in Clinton Hill

at Park Avenue at Washington Avenue
Saturday, April 25th
from 3-4:30pm

SpaceBuster is a mobile inflatable art installation that expands and organically adjusts to its surroundings (like a highway overpass).

We invite you to participate by brainstorming creative permanent and temporary uses and physical improvements for the space under the BQE with the help of volunteer facilitators from Pratt Institutes Planning program. The event is free and open to the public, but RSVPs are strongly recommended as space is limited.

To RSVP to participate in the community workshop, click here.

Cant make the workshop? Stop by during the Open House after 4:30pm, and mingle with SpaceBuster architects raumlaborberlin.

Sponsored by Storefront, the SpaceBuster will travel throughout New York City hosting various community events from April 17th to the April 26th. For the complete SpaceBuster schedule visit www.storefrontnews.org.

SONYA Prelude Exhibition on Myrtle

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 12:16:00 -0400

The Myrtle Windows Gallery will be playing host to the Prelude Exhibition of SONYA's Studio Stroll, kicking off on Thursday, April 23rd, at 5:30 pm. Meet on the southeast corner of Myrtle and Clinton Avenues for a guided stroll with SONYA artists of the Myrtle Windows Gallery, culminating at the opening reception being held at Tamboril, 527 Myrtle Avenue (Grand/Steuben), from 6pm to 8pm, with hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar, music, and a video slide show.

Guests are encouraged to linger at Tamboril for the best in Nuevo Latino Cuisine! To make a dinner reservation, please call Tamboril at 718-622-5130.

To RSVP for the guided tour or reception: call 718-705-4911, or email info@sonyaonline.org

The 10th SONYA Studio Stroll will take place on Saturday, May 16th & Sunday, May 17th, noon 6pm, both days. To download the Stroll map (coming soon), visit www.sonyaonline.org.

Poets @The Richard Wright Bench

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 18:39:00 -0400

Poets at the Top of the Hill (Fort Greene Park at the Richard Wright bench [southwest of the Wallabout Martyrs Monument]) Saturdays: April 11th, 18th and 25th 12noon to 1pm Read - Recite - Create Read the poetry and prose of writers known and unknown; recite your own words; create new works and share them with the audience. "Poets at the Top of the Hill" is an informal, hour-long gathering of people who love writing and people who love hearing writers speak. Open to all, each day will feature one or two special guests. Speak loudly, these events are unamplified! Hosted by Greg Trupiano, Artistic Director of The Walt Whitman Project. " Meet at the Richard Wright bench, Top of the Hill, Fort Greene Park " Enter at Myrtle Avenue, Washington Park, or DeKalb Avenue, Brooklyn " FREE event / rain or shine " Information: 718-391-8824 " No reservations needed

Great Wall of Brooklyn, this weekend

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 14:16:00 -0400

A large public art installation is going up on the eastern side wall of 387 Myrtle, the home of Chez Lola's, over the weekend. It was slated to go up today, but with the rain and all, looks like the project will be delayed a bit. Stop by the corner of Myrtle and Vanderbilt this weekend and take a peek. In the meantime, read more about the Great Wall of Brooklyn project here: greatwallofbrooklyn.org.

Spring Dance Party for kids at Tamboril! Saturday, 28th, 3-6pm

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 17:03:00 -0400

Enjoy the musical stylings of DJ's Misbehaviour and Catnip at Tamboril's Spring Dance Party for kids! The event will also feature a kid's fashion show with clothing from local favorite, Still Hip, all taking place this Saturday, March 28th, from 3 to 6 pm. Tamboril is located at 527 Myrtle Avenue, between Grand and Steuben in Clinton Hill.

Book Reading at Pillow Cafe, 3/30

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:36:00 -0400

Stop by Pillow Cafe on 3/30 to hear author and local resident, Brett Truitt read from her new book, Lillie. Reading begins at 5:30pm. Come out, meet and greet her, have a glass of cheer and participate in a question and answer session. Lillie is a novel based on the author's family genealogical research-- three siblings and their lives in Fayetteville, North Carolina during the Reconstruction Period. Pillow Cafe is located at 505 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson/Grand).

Take a little piece of 'ordinary wonderful' home with you...

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 15:27:00 -0400

Just about two weeks left until 'ordinary wonderful' leaves Myrtle Avenue. Spring is in the air, and strolling an open-air gallery sounds like a great way to enjoy it! If you haven't had a chance to visit yet, check out the photos we've posted of the show. Pieces are available for sale and priced to move! Prints of each piece are also available at very affordable prices. Drop Meredith a line at meredith@myrtleavenue.org if you're interested in adding to your collection... six flowers(2008)
33x19
$220.00 mounted, $75.00 print
rustic halos(2008)
33x22
$300.00 mounted, $120.00 print
work(2008)
33x23
$230.00 mounted, $70.00 print
petals on the edge(2008)
26x26
$250.00 mounted, $65.00 print
speckled fire(2008)
33x22
$300.00 mounted, $120.00 print
x=x(2008)
33x22
$240.00 mounted, $90.00 print
under the rails(2008)
33x22
$260.00 mounted, $85.00 print
light plane(2008)
33x19
$220.00 mounted, $75.00 print
asa remon pee(2007)
33x22
$260.00 mounted, $85.00 print
red storm(2008)
33x22
$230.00 mounted, $80.00 print

Total Woman Business Conference, Fri, March 20th

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 11:00:00 -0400

Okay, so you decide to attend the Project Enterprise biz conference this week and the amount of information and encouragement you receive is so intense that you just don't want it to end. It doesn't have to...not quite. On Friday, March 20th--the annual Total Woman Business Conference, 8:00a to 3:30p at St. Francis College promises to be enriching with a plethora of workshops on topics including "Penny Pinching Marketing Secrets" and "Unleash Your Inner Sales Genius". Click here for more information and to register today! Early bird registration is $35 or $50 for two. ---- Here's their email for more info: Dear Friends and Colleagues, In just four days, the Local Development Corporation of East New York will be hosting its 6th annual Total Woman Business Conference. The conference will be held at St. Francis College (180 Remsen Street, Downtown Brooklyn) on Friday, March 20th from 8am - 3pm. This year's conference theme is: "Squeezing the Money: Sales & Marketing Strategies to Succeed in a Lean Economy." Three great women will honor us with their presence, including keynote speaker Lisa Price, Founder and President of Carrol's Daughter, Assemblywoman Inez Barrons, and Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez. Although this is a "Total Woman" celebration, it is not limited to only women; men of course, are welcomed. In fact, previous years conferences attracted almost 20% of men as attendees. So bring your husband, brother, friend, or partner and join us as we celebrate Total Woman Business Conference 2009. Here's a short description of the event's seminars: (1) Penny Pinching - How to Market Your Company on a Dime! by Pattie Simone of Write Communications (2) Unleash Your Inner Sales Genious by Francisoc Acosta of Internal Business Consulting (3) 5 Steps to Starting Your Social Networking Campaign Today! by Jenniffer Shaheem of The Technology Therapy If you have not registered yet, don't wait until the last minute. Visit our website at www.totalwomanbusiness.com to register, or call us at (718) 385-6700 ext. 10. Scholarships are available for low income entrepreneurs. Call to find out if you qualify. We look forward to seeing you all this Friday!

Local Restaurant Owner to speak at small business forum, 3/18

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:55:00 -0400

Aricka Westbrooks, owner of Jive Turkey restaurant, located at 441 Myrtle to speak at small business forum in Bed-Stuy on 3/18. SMALL BUSINESS FORUM: SURVIVING THE RECESSION Sponsored by the Coalition for the Improvement of Bedford Stuyvesant Business Vitality Network When: Wednesday, March 18th 2009 Time: 8:30 11:00am Where: Restoration Plaza 1368 Fulton St. Multi-Purpose Room 1st Floor RSVP to (718) 399-0146x10 or Email: FWilson@bsdcorp.org Keynote Speaker: ARICKA WESTBROOKS Successful Proprietor of Jive Turkey " Complimentary BREAKFAST and Great Networking! " Learn about Business Support Services from New York City government " Gain new market data on local retail opportunities " Hear about planned strategies to market and support area businesses photo, courtesy Project Enterprise

A not-so-ordinary Myrtle Windows Gallery event

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 17:38:00 -0400

We'll forgive you if missed the fabulous opening reception of 'ordinary wonderful', as long as you promise to catch the exhibit before it closes on April 1st. In the meantime, whet your appetite with this great piece from the NY Times Local Fort Greene/Clinton Hill blog.

Myrtle Windows Gallery presents: ordinary wonderful, March 2-April 1

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:15:00 -0400

Myrtle Windows Gallery returns! On Friday March 6th, come to Karen's Body Beautiful for the opening of the second Myrtle Windows Gallery exhibition, a program that turns Myrtle Avenue into an open-air art gallery for all to see. This solo exhibition features the photos of Brooklyn-based Trevor Brown, who explores the beauty in the ordinary things around us right here in Brooklyn...that we too often take for granted. For more information on the artist check out his website at www.trevorbrownonline.com. Come to Karens Body Beautiful (436 Myrtle Avenue) at 5:30pm on Friday March 6th to tour the exhibition with the artist, himself! Afterwards, head back to Karens for a reception from 6-8pm with light refreshments from Myrtle faves Anima and Gnarly Vines. The exhibition will be on display from March 3rd to April 1st in the following storefronts, all located within three blocks on Myrtle Avenue between Hall Street and Clinton Avenue: Anima (458 Myrtle); Five Spot Supper Club (459 Myrtle); Joseph Tyler Salon (456 Myrtle); Karens Body Beautiful (436 Myrtle); Karrot Health Food (431 Myrtle); Miracles Unisex Barber Shop (473A Myrtle); Move with Grace Dance & Yoga Studio (469 Myrtle); Optimum Care Rehab (474 Myrtle); Thai 101 Restaurant (455A Myrtle); Three Stars Laundromat (439 Myrtle). If you've been thinking about adding to your personal art collection, the artist is offering all works in the exhibition for sale, as well as prints of each piece! Visit participating merchants or contact us at 718-230-1689 for more information.

Winter Film Series '09 at the BPL, Whitman Branch

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:12:00 -0400

Who knew that the Whitman Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library at 93 St. Edwards Street was film central? But it surely is! Wednesday nights are film nights at the Whitman Library. 5:30pm - 8:00pm ALWAYS FREE. FEBRUARY 18th - Amistad - after a historic slave revolt, a slave ship is forced to chart new territory. 155 minutes 25th - Xala - a wealthy African man takes a third wife but finds he is cursed for doing so. 123 minutes MARCH 4th - Kama Sutra - a princess' influence is usurped by her husband's favorite courtesan. 123 minutes 11th - Moolade - a mother opposes a genital mutilation operation intended for her daughter. 145 minutes 18th - Middle Sexes - discusses the influence and awareness of hermaphrodites in society. 150 minutes 25th - The Night Porter - a devastating psychological role reversal occurs between two former lovers in the aftermath of postwar Austria. 118 minutes Films shown Wednesday evenings at the Walt Whitman Branch Library, 93 St. Edwards Street) off Myrtle Avenue, opposite Fort Greene Park. Please call or email Carlton Lula, Adult Services Librarian for additional information: 718.935.0244/ c.lula@brooklynpubliclibrary.org

Calling local artists: Exhibit your work in the Myrtle Windows Gallery!

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 13:00:00 -0400

Myrtle Windows Gallery (MWG) is an open air art gallery that breaks down the walls of the traditional private art gallery to bring two-dimensional art to the public arena via the storefront window, where it is accessible to anyone simply walking down the street. Ten Myrtle Avenue storefronts temporarily transform part of their windows into gallery space for the works of local artists. The initiative helps bring together artists, local businesses, and the community in a dialogue about art in public spaces.
Installation System
The installation system serves to create a uniform look that unifies the exhibit, and displays work in a way that does not damage the merchants space or 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. 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 theft or damage to the works while installed in the storefronts. Eligibility and Selection Criteria
MWG seeks ten (10) existing two-dimensional works of art (paintings, prints, photographs, collage, mixed media etc.) that can be easily installed in each of ten storefronts windows. Preference will be given to local artists whose work captures or is inspired by urban life. If the artist chooses to offer pieces for sale the Partnership will receive a commission on each sale, to be negotiated with the artist prior to the exhibit. Given that community accessibility is a key component of the mission of this initiative, we hope to exhibit works at a broad range of prices.
Application Process
The following materials must be received by Friday, February 13, 2009 at 5pm at:
Myrtle Windows Gallery, 472 Myrtle Avenue, 2nd Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11205
" Complete contact information including name, address, telephone and email address
" CD of images of the works to be included in the exhibition, with index listing title, medium and dimensions for each
" Narrative description of the collection of works to be included in the exhibition
" Current Resume and artist statement Artists will be notified by February 18, 2009, and installation will take place beginning February 23, 2009. Click here for photos from our last Myrtle Windows Gallery Exhibition, with works by artist Anne Lafond. Please email Meredith@myrtleavenue.org with questions.

St. Joseph's: Special Events, thru 5/3

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 12:53:00 -0400

America from Sea to Shifting Sea: Our Changing Cultural Tides-- a series of special events, now thru May 3rd. Thru March 4, 2009 Waves of Change: Juried Exhibition of Brooklyn Artists Alumni Room Gallery-- Gallery hours: M, W, 4:00pm thru 8:00pm; Sa, 12:00pm thru 3:00pm [Reception, Mon, 2/2, 5:30 thru 8:00pm and Sat, 2/28, 12:00 thru 3:00pm; Gallery Talk, Tues, 2/10, 12:40pm] Tues, 2/3 (12:40pm) Dance Event The History of Hip Hop Thurs, 2/5 (7:00pm)and Sat, 2/7 (8:00pm) Theater Event Brooklyn Voices Mon, 3/9 (7:30pm) Lecture Islam in the 21st Century Mon, 16 (7:00pm) Presidential Arts Colloquium A Conversation with Bill T. Jones March 16th thru April 30th Art Exhibit One Artist's Journey Through Change: The Works of Howardena Pindell Tues, 4/21 (12:40pm) Poetry Performance; (6:30pm) Poetry Slam Kelly Zen-Yie Tsai: Move This Earth Sun, 5/3 (2:00pm) Musical Performance Canta Libre Chamber Ensemble

Walgreen's Grand Opening, Tues., 1/27

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 17:27:00 -0400

Come out and celebrate with Walgreen's! Walgreen's grand opening will take place this coming Tuesday, January 27th, beginning at 9am. Many local elected officials, Walgreen's top brass and community members will be in attendance. All are invited. Hope to see you there! Walgreen's is located at 379 Myrtle Avenue (corner of Myrtle and Clermont).

And the Winners Are...

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 11:11:00 -0400

The competition was fierce and the vote count was tight, but the winners of Myrtle's first Holiday Windows Contest have been chosen by you, the public, via text message voting. Given how close the contest was, and given how many enthusiastic and talented artists participated, we added second and third place monetary prizes, while honorable mentions went to those Storefront Windows that had particularly strong support via emails, calls, and comments to our staff.

The artist(s) winning first place receives gift certificates valued at $250 to participating Myrtle Avenue businesses, while the second and third place winners receive gift certificates valued at $100 and $50 respectively.

1st Place: Benjie Sirota and Julia Wadsworth for their work at Zaytoons
2nd Place: Leola Bermanzohn for her work at (burzh-wa)
3rd Place: Suzanna Shapiro for her work at Gnarly Vines

And the Honorable Mentions go to:

The Bright Idea Award, for most innovative use of holiday lights, goes to artist Kelly Horrigan and Sara Weissler for their work at Karens Body Beautiful.

The Snowblower Award, for most creative interpretation of the theme of the business (in this case, using hair as snow), goes to artist Alecs Gryczon for her work at Joseph Tyler Salon.

The Santa's Workshop Award, for most innovative use of outside materials to create multi-dimensional scenes, goes to Cecilia Rebecca Ziko, Matt Brennan and Melissa Rioux for their work at The Bakery (pictured above) and Kapellas.

The Yes We Can Award, for creatively incorporating current events into an inspirational holiday theme, goes to Kathleen Hayek for her work at Fort Greene SNAP.

Many thanks to all of the merchants, artists, and voters who participated in this year's Holiday Windows Contest. We hope everyone enjoyed the window art as much as we did, and got in the holiday shopping mood while walking down Myrtle Avenue.

Myrtle Holiday Windows - last chance to vote!

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 16:50:00 -0400

Who will win? It's close, and votes are still coming in! Don't miss your chance to cast a vote for your favorite Holiday Window on Myrtle Avenue! Hurry...the 'polls' will close on Christmas Day. Click here here for a list of participating Myrtle businesses, and for a sneak-photo-peek at the windows in the running. Winners will be announced here on our website on December 26th.

Banneker High School/ New York Cares Coat Drive...thru Dec. 18th

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:20:00 -0400

If you have new or gently used coats to spare (perhaps that the kids may have outgrown or that you generally just do not have use or room for anymore), please consider donating them to Banneker Brothers United during their New York Cares Coat Drive, thru Friday, December 18th. Banneker Brothers United is a group of extremely civic-minded high school students from Benjamin Banneker Academy for Community Development located at 77 Clinton Avenue, near Park Avenue. Coats can be dropped off at the school thru 5pm any weekday through the end of the drive. Please also free to call the school for further information: (718) 797-3702. During Banneker's coat drive launch, which was held in front of Connecticut Muffin on Saturday, December 6th, during the Myrtle holiday windows design kick-off, the students collected more than 83 coats. They are extremely thankful to our Fort Greene/Clinton Hill community for showing full-support. Each December, New York Cares collects nearly 80,000 gently used winter coats and distributes them to thousands of men, women, and children--at homeless shelters, nursing homes, and other organizations--who would otherwise go without.

VOTE for your favorite Myrtle Holiday Window - voting ends December 25th

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:20:00 -0400

The polls are open! Cast your vote and help us choose the winner of the first Myrtle Holiday Windows contest! You can vote for your favorite Myrtle Holiday Window via text message through Christmas Day. Here's a sneak peek at the windows on our flickr site. Instructions on how to submit your vote are posted in participating storefront windows, so take a holiday stroll down Myrtle and check out these stores: Ray's Barber Shop (331 Myrtle)
Fort Greene SNAP (324 Myrtle)
Gnarly Vines (350 Myrtle)
burzh-wa (352 Myrtle)
The Bakery (154 Vanderbilt)
Duncans Fish Market (385 Myrtle)
Kapellas (417 Myrtle)
Karens Body Beautiful (436 Myrtle)
Jive Turkey (441 Myrtle)
Joseph Tyler Salon (456 Myrtle)
Barking Brown (468 Myrtle)
Polish Bar Brooklyn (470 Myrtle)
Zaytoons (472 Myrtle)
Optimum Care Rehab (474 Myrtle)
Sandbox (487 Myrtle)
Pillow Cafe (505 Myrtle)
Square Root Café (584 Myrtle)
A special thanks to all the local artists who volunteered their time on this project! Happy Holidays!

Holiday Windows Contest Begins Saturday at Noon

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:42:00 -0400

This Saturday December 6th is the kickoff of a new Myrtle Avenue Holiday tradition! Eighteen local businesses are offering up their storefronts to local artists who are volunteering their time and talents for the Holiday Windows Contest. The contest will bring together local artists and Myrtle merchants to display holiday inspired scenes painted on a portion of each participating merchants storefront window using a kit of materials provided by us. Each kit includes 7 colors of poster paint, paint brushes, and a set of white holiday lights, and artists are allowed to spend up to $20 on any additional materials they want to use that are approved by both us and the merchant. Think of it as a more simple and affordable way to play off the New York tradition of beautiful and elaborate holiday window displays.

Visitors to the avenue will be able to vote via text message up until Christmas day for their favorite of the eighteen storefront holiday scenes by texting the code displayed in each window. The winning artist or team of artists will win gift certificates totaling $250 to any of the participating businesses. Visit www.myrtleavenue.org on December 26th to see the winner! The displays themselves will be taken down shortly after the new year.

We hope the community will come out this Saturday from 12 pm to 5 pm to watch some live art making in action, up and down the avenue. The participating businesses are:

Ray's Barber Shop (331 Myrtle)
Fort Greene SNAP (324 Myrtle)
Gnarly Vines (350 Myrtle)
Burzh-wa (352 Myrtle)
Duncans Fish Market (385 Myrtle)
Kiini Ibura (388 Myrtle)
The Bakery (154 Vanderbilt)
Kapellas (417 Myrtle)
Karens Body Beautiful (436 Myrtle)
Jive Turkey (441 Myrtle)
Joseph Tyler Salon (456 Myrtle)
Barking Brown (468 Myrtle)
Polish Bar Brooklyn (470 Myrtle)
Zaytoons (472 Myrtle)
Optimum Care Rehab (474 Myrtle)
Sandbox Pack & Ship Resource Center (487 Myrtle)
Pillow Cafe (505 Myrtle)
Square Root Café (584 Myrtle)

In addition to the window painting there will be a coat drive held by students from Benjamin Banneker Academy for Community Development on Saturday, December 6th at 11:30am on Clinton and Myrtle in front of Connecticut Muffin. The drive is a part of NYCares and will be put on by a student group called the Banneker Brothers United.

So join in the events along Myrtle Avenue this weekend to get yourself in the holiday spirit!

Marathoners Hit FG/CH and all around

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 17:12:00 -0400

Yep, it's almost here--The NYC Marathon. This coming Sunday, November 2nd! And it runs down Lafayette Avenue, right through Fort Greene/ Clinton Hill. So, set up somewhere along the route to cheer our Marathoners on. (pics of current and former MARP staff and Marathoners: top photos--Meredith Phillips Almeida (Marathoner 2008); bottom photos--Vaidila Kungys (Marathoner 2007).

Halloween on Myrtle 2008

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 16:38:00 -0400

Lots of Halloween action on and around Myrtle today. Many Myrtle Avenue stores are decked out with Halloween decor and further get in on the action with candy for the kids as well as staff fully decked out in costume (for example, the camera died just as we were about to snap a pic of Joseph Tyler Salon staff. uhhhh, seeing is believing, stop by...lol) A bit of what's happening: Delicious holiday-themed cookies and cakes at The Bakery--affordable and delicious, stop in. Staff fully decked out in costume at Dope Jams, Rope, Joseph Tyler Salon, Luz, Chez Lola and Maggie Brown. Special music sets at Five Spot Soul Food & Supper Club and Dope Jams. Costume Contests and holiday-themed cocktails at Dope Jams, La Stalla, Tamboril, Luz and Pillow Cafe: Free sangria and a chance to win a dinner for 2 at La Stalla and drink specials all night (until 2am) at Pillow Cafe. Luz is streaming fright movies. Choose a favorite place or do a little Halloween festivities hop (party over hereeee). Check out the Myrtle Avenue Shopping Guide for addresses. Many Myrtle venues will stay open way later than their usual time tonight. Call and inquire. Also today: The Society for Clinton Hill presents-- The 14th Annual Halloween Walk today. Pick up maps, 5:30 6:30 pm. Children under 12 who are in costume and accompanied by a parent or guardian are going to get the low-down on the real candy stashes (pssst, pick up your map at the SCH Community Garden, DeKalb & Hall). Spectacular Halloween Show, High School Musi-Ghoul at 313 Clinton Avenue, running continuously between 5pm and 9pm. Choreography by Robin Lester of the Clinton Hill Blog. Stop by, you will be thrilled!!!!! There are dozens & dozens of wonderful homes with great treats amd amazing decorations, Make sure you see them all. http://www.myrtleavenue.org/shoppingGuide.cfm

Halloween in Fort Greene Park

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 21:04:00 -0400

Sponsored by the Fort Greene Park Conservancy, the Fort Greene Park Halloween Festival will take place on Sunday, October 26th, 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 Sunday 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. Please check out the Fort Greene Park Conservancy or PUPS websites for further details. (pic from the Fort Greene Park Conservancy website)

Network w/ local progressive planners and support locally-owned businesses

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 12:57:00 -0400

Join us at Tamboril on Tuesday, October 28th for Planners Network NYCs annual Disorientation, a social networking event for progressive planners and community activists. Happy hour begins at 6pm, so arrive early to take advantage of $1 PBRs and 2-for-1 cocktails! Tamboril is located at 527 Myrtle Avenue between Grand and Steuben.
PN and MARP have invited director Virginie-Alvine Perrette to screen her short film, Twilight Becomes Night, which follows the stories of five neighborhood stores in New York City and reveals the role that locally-owned businesses play in our individual lives and neighborhoods. (Film screening is scheduled to begin at 7:30pm)
MARP will also award $2000 worth of Myrtle gift certificates to our very own local business supporters - the Explore Myrtle Avenue Shopping Spree contest winners! Congratulations to Jessica Zapotechne, Donnie Scruggs and Courtney Rost, and thanks to all who entered for supporting Myrtle Avenue!

Planners Network NYC is the local New York City chapter of Planners Network, which is an international association of professionals, activists, academics, and students who use urban and rural planning as a tool for social, economic, and environmental justice. More info at: PN-NYC Email listserv and PN-NYC Facebook For more information or to RSVP, please contact Meredith@myrtleavenue.org.

Celebrate Public Art on Myrtle With Us!

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:32:00 -0400

For the next month, three blocks of Myrtle Avenue will play host to the artwork of Fort Greene-based artist Anne LaFond as the first exhibit in our new Myrtle Windows Gallery program. Myrtle Windows Gallery aims to create an open-air art gallery that breaks down the walls of the traditional private art gallery to bring two-dimensional art to the public arena via the storefront window, where it is accessible to anyone simply walking down the street.

Come celebrate this inaugural exhibit with us on Tuesday, October 21st from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at Five Spot Supper Club at 461 Myrtle between Washington and Waverly. During the opening reception, LaFond will be on hand to discuss her work, and will lead a walking tour of the exhibit immediately following the reception. The reception is free and open to the public (RSVP here) and light refreshments will be served.

LaFonds paintings touch on issues of social justice and consciousness like the effects of violence and the New York working class experience. Paintings in the Subway Series exhibit are dynamic and colorful depictions of everyday people on their daily commute on the New York City subway with a focus on how they interact with each other and the daily news.

The paintings will be on display until November 17, 2008 in the following ten storefronts, all located within three blocks on Myrtle Avenue between Hall Street and Clinton Avenue: Anima (458 Myrtle); Five Spot Supper Club (459 Myrtle); Joseph Tyler Salon (456 Myrtle); Karens Body Beautiful (436 Myrtle); Karrot Health Food (431 Myrtle); Miracles Unisex Barber Shop (473A Myrtle); Move with Grace Dance & Yoga Studio (469 Myrtle); Optimum Care Rehab (474 Myrtle); Thai 101 Restaurant (455A Myrtle); Three Stars Laundromat (439 Myrtle). The paintings are all available for sale by the artist, with a printed guide to the gallery and pricing inside each participating storefront.

Speaking of public art, youve probably already noticed that we have a few new residents on Myrtle Avenue the Tree Huggers!

At the end of the summer, we kicked off our Public Art Program with the temporary installation of four pieces from the internationally-known Tree Hugger Project at two locations on Myrtle: the Carlton Green Streets Triangle (Carlton and Myrtle), and the Ingersoll Houses (Myrtle between Prince and Navy). This project was a collaboration between the Partnership, New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, New York City Housing Authority and the Ingersoll Tenants Association. Tree Hugger pieces will be exhibited on Myrtle Avenue until July 2009.

Artists Wiktor Szostalo and Agnieska Gradzik have installed the Tree Huggers in parks and public spaces all over the world. From material to concept, the Tree Huggers send a message that we all have an important role as stewards of public space and the environment, and Myrtle Avenue is excited to be part of this global movement.

Next time youre walking down Myrtle take a moment to check out our whimsical visitors from the skateboarding tree hugger at Carlton to the flying red balloon family at Ingersoll, these characters will surely brighten your stroll and bring a smile to your face.

We hope to bring more temporary public sculpture installations to Myrtle Avenue in the coming year.

Reception at Clinton Hill Art Gallery, Thursday

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 14:38:00 -0400

Meet the Artist Behind the Art reception this Thursday, October 16th at Clinton Hill Art Gallery: 6pm to 9pm. Clinton Hill Art Gallery located at 154A Vanderbilt Avenue opened its Fall/Winter art season with renowned digital media artist, educator and webcast radio host, Daniel Durning. Professor Durnings satirical political art installation, 'The Media Lies, He Is Your President' runs thru October 26. Durning will also be available to introduce and sign limited edition prints of his current installation. L.B. Brown, gallery director says, "we hope to bring new, fresh, stimulating and exciting Brooklyn artists into the marketplace for the refined and the beginner art buyer." Fall/Winter gallery hours and days are Wednesday thru Friday, 3pm-7pm; Saturday 2pm-7pm and Sunday 12-3pm. Call 718.852.0227 or 718.857.0074 for questions or appointments outside of gallery hours. (image above): Daniel Durning's sculptural window installation, "The Trance Icon")

Destination: Wallabout

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 18:16:00 -0400

For the 3rd year in a row, the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership participated in the annual openhousenewyork weekend. Held this past Sunday, the tour highlighted the historic Wallabout District. The Wallabout District, amongst other things, has the largest collection of pre-Civil War houses in New York City. Nearly 65 history and architecture enthusiasts piled into either the 10am or 2pm Wallabout tour, led by Adam Schwartz and Howard Pitsch, respectively. Tour participants included both those local and not so local. openhousenewyork is an annual two-day event where over 100 sites throughout New York City, from skyscrapers to monuments, private mausoleums and lighthouses, open their doors to the public. Billed America's largest architecture and design event, it is organized by openhousenewyork. (photo of Howard Pitsch leading tour)

Myrtle Park(ing) Day - Picnic Space, Performance Space, Public Space!

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 17:34:00 -0400

From picknickers to spoken-word poets, Myrtle Park was packed from start to finish with folks looking for a place to just...be. Residents, visitors, even high school classes stopped by to check out the scene, to relax, to enjoy, and to imagine the possibility of public space. Visit our Flickr site for photos of Myrtle Park!

Join Us At "Myrtle Park" This Friday, 9/19

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 10:56:00 -0400

Join us this Friday, 9/19, as we participate for the second year in National Park(ing) Day. We roll out the sod on two parking spaces on the Avenue, add chairs, tables, and hopefully YOU. Park(ing) Day is a day to celebrate parks in cities and to promote the need for more public space by creating temporary public parks. Come out and enjoy. Bring your lunches to eat, your newspapers to read, instruments to play, your poetry or spoken word to share--or hey, even your lawnchair. Come out, relax, enjoy. Local restaurants, Kum Kau and Liberty Pizza will provide tastings around lunchtime. Furniture and plants courtesy of Anima, Optimum Care and Root Stock & Quade. And there will even be treats and water for the precious pooches courtesy of NYCPet.com. Where: Myrtle Avenue (between Washington Avenue and Hall Street), 9a - 5p. After you stop by to say hello to us, please visit other nearby Fort Greene/ Clinton Hill Parks: bocce ball at "Gutter Ball Park" at Myrtle and Hall (directly in front of Bergen Bagel) and environmental workshops at "Habana Works" at Fulton and So. Portland Streets, both until 7pm.

A Bookstore for Fort Greene

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:44:00 -0400

Jessica Stockton-Bagnulo won the Brooklyn Public Library's Business Plan Competition last year. Now she and a Fort Greene indie bookstore alliance are busily trying to raise more funds for the enterprise as well as trying to find a home for it.

Come out to the launch event to get to know Jessica, contribute your ideas, meet your neighbors, enjoy complimentary food and drink, and meet great Brooklyn authors like Colson Whitehead and Jennifer Egan. Support local business and community in Fort Greene. RSVP to rsvp_fortgreeneindie@hotmail.com by September 12.

Bloody Showdown, Round Deux. Ding Ding

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:50:00 -0400

Okay, DeKalb, lace up. Max Power, bartender extraordinaire and local, floating iron chef, is at it once again. From the Myrtle Avenue post of Pillow Cafe (505 Myrtle Avenue between Ryerson and Grand) Max takes on DeKalb faves this Saturday, 9/13. Chez Oskar and a host of other DeKalb faves will go toe-to-toe with Max for the title of best Bloody Mary in the neighborhood. I warn you Max is maaddd, having gotten the old one-two from Maggie Brown just a few months ago. (He blames it on a hanging chad&hardy har) But you be the bloody judge. Winner, as always, is determined by blind, popular vote. Bring your friends, your taste buds and opinions on down to Pillow Café. Who makes the best Bloody Marys? Who reigns supreme? Brunch at Pillow Café until 3pm. Bloody battle begins at 4pm. Voting ends at 9pm. Pillow Café is located at 505 Myrtle Avenue and can be reached by telephone at 718.246.2711.

Brooklyn Book Festival: Sunday, 9/14

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:35:00 -0400

The annual Brooklyn Book Festival hits the Brooklyn Boro Hall Plaza (209 Joralemon) again this Sunday, 9/14. This huge, free public event presents an array of literary stars and emerging authors who represent the exciting world of literature today. Lots of activities for book lovers of all ages. Full day event, beginning at 10am. Please call 718.802.3846 for further detail.

Summers Last Hurrah Brooklyn Urban Arts Market closes this Sunday

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 17:30:00 -0400

Heres your last chance to party and shop locally at the Brooklyn Urban Arts Market, taking place this Sunday, 9/7, from 12pm to 8pm on Myrtle between Emerson and Grand (in front of the PrattStore). Featuring DJ collective Soul Summit and legendary hip hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa, this is definitely a dont-miss end of summer bash! If shopping is your thing, well have 40+ local artisans vending fashion and accessories to help you update your look just in time for the new fall season.

Dont forget to pick up your Explore Myrtle Avenue game card at the Market, offering you a shot at a Myrtle Shopping Spree valued at $1000! Its easy just spend $10 at any five participating Myrtle business (many you might already visit regularly), and send in your card to enter the drawing. Thats it. Simple.

See you Sunday!

Fort Greene Walking Tour on Saturday

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:24:00 -0400

The award-winning Big Onion Tours, dubbed the finest, most comprehensive and thought provoking tours around, resumes its Fort Greene Tour this Saturday, September 6th at 1pm. Read more about the upcoming Fort Greene Walking Tour here. Admission: $15/Adults, $12/Seniors & Students Meet: The southeast corner of Flatbush Avenue & Hanson Place, under the large red BAM sign

Tree Hugger Project installation this Saturday at Ingersoll Family Day

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 12:45:00 -0400

We are kicking off the new Myrtle Avenue Public Art Program by teaming up with NYCHA and the Ingersoll Tenant Association for a community build this Saturday, August 30th, from 12-3pm on Myrtle near Prince Street. Please come by to help the artists install the pieces they've designed for the Ingersoll Houses grounds, and then enjoy the food, drink, music, and games, courtesy of the Ingersoll TA and NYCHA.

Tree Hugger Project (www.treehuggerproject.com) artists Wiktor Szostalo and Agnieszka Gradzik will be installing a total of four pieces on Myrtle Avenue as a part of their ongoing public art project that combines environmental sculpture made of natural, found and free materials such as twigs, vines and tree branches with a simple environmental message. The Project is an ongoing work of Environmental Art designed to help us re-discover our relationship with nature at a very personal and intimate level. The focus on the stewardship of public space demonstrates that standing up for the environment can be done in a fun and non-political way, and that contemporary art can be entertaining and make a difference in how we view our world. Community participation in the construction and installation of the Tree Huggers helps to highlight the role that we all can play as stewards in our very own neighborhood, reminding us that we humans are still very much a part of our natural surroundings. The Tree Hugger Project has been brought to cities and parks all over the world as a way to bring attention to the environment and to bring communities together, and Myrtle Avenue is excited to be part of this international movement.

The Partnerships new Myrtle Avenue Public Art program is an effort to bring temporary (up to 11 months) public sculpture, art installations, studio art, and creative street furniture elements to the public spaces and sidewalks of the 20-block retail district, increasing access to art for the entire community.

These art installations are part of the larger Myrtle Avenue Arts & Enterprise Initiative which represents a multi-faceted effort to establish the retail corridor as an access point to visual art and cultural activities for community members of diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The Tree Hugger Project serves as a kick-off for the Partnerships new public art program, launching both a soon-to-be-released open call for proposals for additional temporary sculpture pieces for locations along Myrtle Avenue, as well as a request for sponsors to support future artists and their installations. Seed funding for the new program was provided by the Lily Auchincloss Foundation and Myrtles Business Improvement District.

Whose Broad Stripes and Bright Stars...

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:14:00 -0400

Make tonight a hugely patriotic night. Film at 8:00pm; Opera before the screening at 7:30pm; Just in time to make it home to catch a little more Convention coverage at 10:00pm. Wednesday, August 27th 7:30pm Rain date: Thursday, August 28th 7:30pm The popular film musical 1776 and live music performed before the screening will be held at Fort Greene Park's beautiful Myrtle Meadow (near the Visitor's center at the top of the park). Enter the park at DeKalb and Washington Park or N. or S. Portland Avenues. American Opera Projects resident soprano Caroline Worra (also NYCO, Glimmerglass companies) will perform a program of all-new songs based on the writing of the great American poet Walt Whitman starting at 7:30pm, before the screening of 1776. 1776, starring among others, Howard Da Silva, John Cullum and Blythe Danner, is a wonderful preamble to the November 2008 Prison Ship Martyrs Monument Centennial Celebration. The film and live music honor Revolutionary War heroes and the creation of the Declaration of Independence-a document which had countless ups and downs before it was finalized and signed. The Stanford White-designed Prison Ship Martyrs Monument was the first memorial to prisoners of war in the country and was constructed over the remains of over 11,000 patriots who died in the fight for freedom in Brooklyn and New York cities, 1776-1783. Whitman, a Brooklyn resident, was instrumental in raising awareness of the need for a monument to honor the thousands of POWs of the American Revolution that died in British prison ships harbored in the East River. The Walt Whitman Project's participation gives an insight into Whitman's Brooklyn life. Picnicking is encouraged. The Bakery, Zagat-rated confectionary located 154 Vanderbilt Avenue, will have pastries and refreshments for sale. Bring your own blankets and lawn chairs if desired. (pic from Parks website: http://www.nycgovparks.org)

Clinton Hill Art Gallery: Summer Sizzler

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:40:00 -0400

Clinton Hill Art Gallery hosts its 8th annual summer sizzler on two Sundays this summer, so be sure to stop by the space at Vanderbilt and Myrtle for some great programs on local history.
Sunday, August 17
Getting Started on Tracing Your Past, 2 pm
Wilhelmena Rhodes Kelly, Author of "Images in America Bedford Stuyvesant" and leading genealogist discusses hints and tips on investigating your family history. She will also present interesting facts linking colonial Bedford Stuyvesant to events in American history.

Sunday, August 24
The Walt Whitman Project, 2pm
Greg Trupiano, leading authority on Walt Whitman, hosts a talk and readings on "Walt Whitman an American Treasure and Activist." The discussion will also feature "Walt Whitman in the Neighborhood" detailing Whitman's influence in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill.

RSVP as limited seating is available
Clinton Hill Art Gallery
154A Vanderbilt Avenue (slightly south of Myrtle)
718.852.0227 or 718.857.0074

Tamboril: great food, drink, more

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:26:00 -0400

Tamboril: GREAT food, drink and a whole lot more. Wondering where to go for hot jazz, exciting art exhibits, live jam sessions, sidesplitting comedy and more? Tamboril.

Brooklyn Urban Arts Market is back this Sunday

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 10:42:00 -0400

With the thunder and lighting we had at the last market hopefully staying away, this Sunday's market is packed with great performers. The Earthmen Experience and DJ Hard Hittin Harry were kind enough to move their sets to this coming Sunday given the downpour at the last market, so they'll be starting up the day on the early side, with Bobbito and DJ Spinna closing out the day.

Be sure to check out the 40 local vendors who'll be selling at the market from noon to 7 pm. And remember to check out shops up and down Myrtle Avenue for your chance to win a $1000 Myrtle shopping spree.

The Brooklyn Urban Arts Market is located on Myrtle Avenue between Grand and Emerson in Clinton Hill this Sunday, August 10th, from noon to 7 pm.

Brooklyn Urban Arts Market Begins this Sunday

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 19:48:00 -0400

Come by Myrtle Avenue between Grand Avenue and Emerson Place starting at noon for a mix of great music, local vendors selling unique wares, and a sampling of local food.

And be sure to visit the Brooklyn Urban Arts Market site to check out all of the vendors that will be present, and to check out audio and video of the musical performers.

Afro Punk Festival Closes Out in Style at Block Party

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 16:43:00 -0400

Thanks to everyone who came out to Sundays Block Party on Clinton at Myrtle and Willoughby. With music, fashion and lots of Brooklyn flavor, it was a temporary playground for dancers, shoppers and people-watchers alike!

It takes a lot of people to pull off a party this big, and special thanks goes out to our co-sponsors Afro Punk and BAM, and especially to the gracious folks on Clinton Avenue for welcoming 3,000+ people into their lives for a day. While you count down the days until next years Block Party, here are some fantastic photos to hold you over: Block Party photos on Flickr.

Brooklyn Urban Arts Market Hits Myrtle this Summer

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 16:35:00 -0400

Party and shop locally, all summer long and into the fall! The new Brooklyn Urban Arts Market's five Sunday appearances on Myrtle Avenue near the PrattStore will blend the power and pull of Afro-Punk and BAMs cutting edge creative culture with MARPs community economic empowerment and small business initiatives. Envisioned as an answer to those ubiquitous NYC street fairs (you know the ones&same perfume and tube socks at every one no matter what location), this open-air market will house 50 local artisans, vendors, and entrepreneurs hand-selected for their innovative creations, fresh urban perspective and DIY spirit.

Afro-Punk returns to curate a musical line up that fuses underground sounds with old-school favorites (see full list below), which will definitely draw a crowd to the avenue on each and every date. You can be sure that we'll be working to help our existing merchants take advantage of this foot traffic weve got a number of plans in the works to get our new visitors to travel the avenue, including the distribution of our new shopping guide and a sort of Myrtle Avenue shopping scavenger hunt (more on that soon).

The focus on small, local and home-based businesses includes an added dimension for the vendor participants: 20 were selected to receive free professional training covering business plan writing, marketing and growing your customer base, accounting/finance, and business law with small business development experts, Project Enterprise.

Major funding for the Brooklyn Urban Arts Market was generously provided by Deutsche Bank Foundation.

Featured musicians:

July 27th
DJ Spinna
The Earthman Experience featuring DJ Hard Hittin Harry
77 Klash

August 10th
Bobbito Garcia a.k.a. Kool Bob Love
THE MOVEMENT PRESENTS:
Hollwood Holt
He Say She Say
Mike Terror
Shala

August 24th
Slick Rick with Band
The Eclectic Collective
Dub Trio

September 7th
Afrika Bambaata
CX KiDTRONiK live KraKstravaganza
w/ special guest rap pioneer "The Ramm:Ell:Zee"
Mickey Factz

September 21st
Rich Medina
Game Rebellion
Millsted
No Surrender

Check back at www.myrtleavenue.org, or visit brooklynurbanartsmarket.ning.com or www.bam.org for the more info and the latest updates.

Afro-Punk Block Party, Sunday July 13

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:20:00 -0400

The 4th Annual Afro-Punk Festival parties its way to a close this weekend right here on Clinton Avenue between Myrtle & Willoughby. Afro Punk, BAM and MARP have come together again to organize the 2nd annual Afro Punk Block Party, bringing the best underground local artists and artisans, tasty treats from local food favorites, and family-friendly activities directly to Fort Greene and Clinton Hill for an all-day, all-out neighborhood celebration! Not the usual street fair, theres enough in store to entertain all day. Make sure you find time to check it out, this is definitely an event not to miss.

Heres just a sample of what you can expect:

Live Music all day
Kudu, J*Davey, The Carps, The Caesarz , DJ Rich Medina, The Dustbin Brothers

Family-friendly fun DIY T-shirt screen printing is back by popular demand! The folks from Afro Punk will help kids make a statement by offering a quick screen-printing lesson. (All day)
Local artist Derick Cross will also be on hand for free facepainting for the young ones (or young at heart)(1pm-6pm)
Healthy Kids Van NYC Public Advocates office is brining their mobile Community Healthcare Unit, complete with important information for parents and games for kids. Come spin their giant prize wheel and get free stuff like hats and waterbottles! (12pm 3pm)
Brooklyn Botanical Garden will be on site to teach us how to compost. Put those food scraps to good use and reduce your garbage footprint! (12pm-5pm)
BikeNY is offering free bike safety classes for youth! More information and registration (not required) is available here. Please bring your own bike if youd like to participate! (1pm-4pm)

Local Dish
Homemade sweet treats by The Bakery (their peach cobbler is one of our favorites!)
Tamboril puts a Nuevo Latino twist on some of your favorite eats
Restaurant New Orleans brings their delicious crab cakes and vegetarian red beans

DIY Fashion, Accessories and Artisan Merchandise
Buy direct from some of the hottest, edgiest local DIY designers! Well have clothing, accessories an other goodies for adults and kids alike. Or, beautify yourself with stuff from some of the neighborhoods best all-natural product-makers. Definitely a shoppers delight!

For more info, visit afropunk.com and bam.org.

Afro-Punk Festival Starts July 4th

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 16:59:00 -0400

The 4th annual Afro-Punk Festival kicks off at BAM on Friday, July 4th with films, a skate park setup in the parking lot next door, a concert in Fort Greene Park on July 12th, and the 2nd annual Block Party on Sunday the 13th from 12 to 8 pm on Clinton Avenue between Myrtle & Willoughby. Be sure the check out the entire schedule of events and more on the Afro-Punk community.

Celebrate Independence Day at Tamboril!

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 17:21:00 -0400

Party over here! At Tamboril restaurant at 527 Myrtle Avenue, that is. Event begins after the fireworks, at 10:30pm. Stop in at any time from 10:30pm-on, to get your art fix, dance, drink, music and grub ON. Only $5, or $10 after midnight. Tamboril is located at 527 Myrtle and can be reached at 718.622.5130.

Taste of Fort Greene/Clinton Hill on Saturday

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:01:00 -0400

Local school Urban Assembly Academy of Arts & Letters invites the Fort Greene/Clinton Hill community to celebrate the end of a fantastic school year with them at their first annual SummerFest, this Saturday, June 21st from 12:00 to 3:00! Join them in the schoolyard (225 Adelphi Street) for the festivities, including: - student performances and exhibitions - games for all ages - face painting - arts & crafts SummerFest will be a party for the palate too, with a Taste of Fort Greene and Clinton Hill that includes delectable treats from local faves Bacchus, Chez Lola, Chez Oscar, Habana Outpost, Graziellas, and Little House on Clinton. The event is open to the public, so bring your family and friends, and spread the word! This is a wonderful opportunity to get to know one of our own neighborhood schools, to support their efforts to build community, and to celebrate the achievements of local youth! Opened in September 2006, Arts & Letters embraces the philosophy that in the best upper grades schools, students are transformed from children who have benefited from a general education to young men and women who have discovered their unique gifts and are prepared to put them to use in the world. Through rigorous academic study, extended projects in the real world, and a sharp focus on the creative communication strategies students need to succeed in college and in life, they will graduate tomorrows ones to watch, individuals who communicate and lead with courage, confidence, creativity, and clarity. If you are interested in volunteering your time or donating, please contact Allison Howry at 718.222.1605 ext 3042 or ahowry@uaaal.org. Hope to see you there!

Soketah Rips the Runway on June 27th!

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:43:00 -0400

Get your tickets now for Soketah Salon's (378 Myrtle) 'Rip the Runway Hair & Fashion Extravaganza' which will take place at the Masonic Temple on Friday, June 27th from 8pm 'til midnight. The Masonic Temple is located at 317 Clermont Avenue (corner of Lafayette Avenue). Tickets are $20/advance; $25 at the door for this event. Call Soketah Salon (718.875.6845), Keisha (646.261.0945) or Kaddy (646.785.2340) for tickets or further detail.

Fort Greene CSA Kicks Off Today!

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 14:02:00 -0400

Come out and join the Fort Greene CSA as it kicks off its inaugural 2008 season at Fort Greene Park! Distribution of fresh produce to the CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture) 60+ members will begin on Wednesday, June 11th at 4 pm at the Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park corner of the park. Music, cooking demonstrations and composting workshops will also be offered and are free and open to the public.

Event details
Cooking Live: The folks from Just Foods Community Food Education program will be on hand with their portable grill to deliver live cooking demonstrations using some of the vegetables from the seasons early harvest! Add a new recipe to your catalog, learn some useful tips, and taste the results!

Collecting Food Scraps: The CSA is collecting food scraps (no dairy or oily foods, please) for the Clifton Place Garden compost heap. Do you part to reduce your weekly garbage footprint by dropping off your food scraps every Wednesday!

Composting 101: If youd rather save your food scraps for yourself, CSA friends Sung Yung and Annie Hauck will be at the site to show us how to transform those scraps into nutrient rich compost for your home garden.

About our Farmers
The Fort Greene CSA was formed with the mission of creating affordability and accessibility to its shares, and has partnered with farmers who share that vision. Sergio Nolasco (pictured), the CSAs vegetable-share farmer, originally comes from Mexico and has been farming in the United States for the past three years. All of his vegetables are produced without any pesticides or synthetic fertilizers on his 10 acre farm in Andover, NJ, a small town approximately 55 miles away from Fort Greene. Sergio grows more than 40 varieties of crops, including carrots, beets, lettuces, potatoes, a number of different types of squash, beets, tomatoes (including heirloom varieties), collards and other cooking greens, broccoli, callaloo, and even cantaloupes and watermelons.

His wife, Paz, also helps him on the farm and often prepares lunch for Sergio and his workers. Paz and Sergio have four children (two boys and two girls) and their family resides in nearby Hackettstown, NJ. Sergio also provides vegetables for CSAs in the South Bronx and Bushwick and sells goods at markets in Inwood, the South Bronx, and Long Island City. Sergio is committed to providing affordable, high quality food to people of all ethnic backgrounds regardless of income, which is why he chooses to deliver to these particular areas of New York City. In 2006, Sergio was featured in a New York Times article about a recent effort to preserve farmland in Westchester County, where he once farmed.

Red Jacket Orchards, run by the Nicholson family in Geneva, NY, will provide fruit shares. If Red Jacket sounds familiar to you, thats because they sell their produce right here at the Fort Greene Greenmarket every Saturday, in addition to many other locations in all five boroughs. Red Jacket grows a variety of berries and stone fruits, and yummy ciders and juices. It is very difficult to grow 100% organic fruit in the Northeast, so Red Jacket operates an Integrated Pest Management System. With IPM, farmers work with natural methods of controlling pests in order to minimize the use of chemical pesticides. Some of these methods include proper soil preparation and testing, pest trapping, and conserving natural, beneficial enemies of pests.

An egg share is also in the works, and will come from Amantai Farm, located in Breinigsville, PA. Amantai is owned by Jorge Carmona, a Columbian immigrant, who produces a diverse vegetable crop, honey, and pastured eggs.

A Community Effort
CSAs represent a small but real solution to the problem of food access and security that so many neighborhoods in New York City face. It has been truly inspiring to see so many diverse elements of the community come together to help make this program a reality! A number of local organizations have provided invaluable support to the Fort Greene CSA, including Independence Community Foundation, Citizens Committee for NYC, Fort Greene SNAP, NYC Parks Department, Councilmember Letitia James Office, Greenmarket, Ingersoll and Whitman Tenant Associations, Fort Greene Association, and the organizing group of the Fort Greene Food Coop. The CSA is happy to return the favor they will donate all leftover food items to Food Not Bombs, a local group that prepares meals for low-income and homeless individuals in the neighborhood on Saturdays. As mentioned earlier, the CSA will also be collecting food scraps that will be used to create compost the Clifton Place Garden.

Stay tuned for more food-related programming at the CSA distribution site this summer, including films, health screenings, and workshops on food education and advocacy! Information will be available at www.fortgreenescsa.org.

Brownstone Brooklyn Garden Walk

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 19:46:00 -0400

The 11th Annual Brownstone Brooklyn Garden Walk this coming Sunday, June 8th, 11a to 5pm. Rain or Shine. $15/advance; $20 the day of. Contact 718.219.2137 or ph.brooklyn@gmail.com for further detail.

SONYA Art Stroll this weekend

Thu, 15 May 2008 19:42:00 -0400

The 9th Annual South of the Navy Yard Artists (SONYA) stroll is this upcoming weekend, Saturday, 5/17 and Sunday, 5/18: 12p-6p. There is literally something for everyone. The art stroll is free and open to the public. Please make certain to stop by the following local businesses to pick up maps and check out exhibits: Clinton Hill Art Gallery, 154 Vanderbilt Gnarly Vines, 350 Myrtle Pillow Cafe, 505 Myrtle PrattSTORE, 550 Myrtle Square Root Cafe, 584 Myrtle Tour maps are also available for download from the SONYA website. Bring your friends and family along and make it a celebration of art making and appreciation! For more information call 718.857.5696.

Fort Greene Photo Group at Pillow Cafe

Thu, 15 May 2008 15:09:00 -0400

Change, an exhibition of the Fort Greene Photography Group at Pillow during the SONYA Art Stroll, Saturday, May 17th & Sunday, May 18th. Stop in, enjoy the art and also enjoy the great food and wonderful vibe and conversation...

Walt Whitman's FG/CH Tour

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 17:54:00 -0400

Walt Whitman's Fort Greene & Clinton Hill: A walking tour sponsored by Fort Greene Park Conservancy, Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership, and The Walt Whitman Project Explore Walt Whitman's Brooklyn with a walking tour that takes you from Fort Greene Park (which owes its existence in large part to Whitman's editorials written for the Brooklyn Daily Eagle), up Myrtle Avenue, and concludes at 99 Ryerson Avenue, the last existing building in Brooklyn that was a residence of Walt Whitman. The tour includes readings of his prose and poetry and discussions about the park, the Wallabout Martyrs and the monument dedicated to their memory, and Brooklyn Hospital. Your guide is Greg Trupiano, Artistic Director of The Walt Whitman Project. Meet at the Visitors Center Top of the Hill, Fort Greene Park Enter at Myrtle Avenue, Washington Park, or DeKalb Avenue Brooklyn FREE event Information & Reservations (limited to 25 people): 718.391.8824

Clinton Hill Art Gallery Presents Phaces in Faith

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:55:00 -0400

Clinton Hill Art Gallery presents Phaces in Faith (featuring artist: Tod Mason), April 18th thru May 31st. Opening reception on Saturday, April 19th, 6pm thru 9pm Meet the artist behind the art on Sunday, May 18th, 2pm thru 4pm Clinton Hill Art Gallery is located at 154A Vanderbilt Avenue, and can be reached by telephone at 718.852.0227

Brooklyn Flea Is Here--this Sunday!

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:36:00 -0400

Brooklyn Flea is opening in Fort Greene this Sunday, April 6th! It will take place every Sunday from 10am to 5pm, rain or shine at the 40,000 square foot-plus lot at Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School on Lafayette Avenue between Clermont and Vanderbilt Avenues. Brooklyn Flea promises to be the weekend destination for bargain-seekers and cool-hunters alike. The Flea will feature more than 200 vendors of vintage furniture, lighting, records, clothing and antiques alongside new designs by local makers of everything from jewelry to textiles. Located just a few blocks from Myrtle Avenue, Fleasters are invited to walk, run, bike, drive, over to Myrtle, to get your grub on before, during or after the shop. Visit our website menus for a full list of Myrtle eateries. For more info about BrooklynFlea, visit BrooklynFlea website or call 718.935.1052 for further detail.

Arts Talk at St. Joe's on Thurs, 4/3

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:21:00 -0400

"Regarding Identity: Conversations With Two Artists: James Casebere & Lorna Simpson" St. Joseph's College Council for the Arts is pleased to announce that contemporary artists Lorna Simpson & James Casebere will be visiting SJC to discuss their individual approaches to visual expression as the featured speakers at the College's inaugural Presidential Arts Colloquium. Following their talks, both artists will take questions from the audience after their separate addresses. These lectures, which are also a part of the "Identity Formed And Transformed: My Self, My Community, My World" series, will take place on Thursday, April 3rd at the Tuohy Hall Auditorium, 245 Clinton Avenue, at 6:30 PM. The event is free and open to the public.

Wine and Jazz at Myrtle's 'Dine in Brooklyn' Kick-Off

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 21:52:00 -0400

Restaurants on Myrtle Avenue will kick off Dine In Brooklyn activities with a free community event on Thursday, March 20th at Gnarly Vines, featuring our local legendary bassist and composer Bill Lee and his jazz quintet. The fun starts at 6:30, with wines by Superstar Aussie Wine Importer, The Grateful Palate, and goodies from participating Myrtle restaurants. Music sets begin at 7:30 and 9:30.

Event is free but electronic RSVP required here.

Gnarly Vines is located at 350 Myrtle (Carlton/Adelphi), and will be offering 10% off purchases of those wines poured during the event.

Come by the event, enjoy the music and wine, and check out Myrtle's menu offerings for Dine In Brooklyn, Brooklyn's fifth annual Restaurant Week, taking place March 24 to 31. The fixed price for a special lunch or dinner is $23.00. (Beverages, tax, and tip not included and some restaurants are only participating in lunch or dinner, some are doing both).

Participating Myrtle Avenue Dine In Brooklyn restaurants include:

Maggie Brown (D)
455 Myrtle/718.643.7001

Yamashiro (D)
466 Myrtle/718.230.3313

Il Torchio (L/D)
458 Myrtle/718.422.1122

Café Martino (D)
557 Myrtle/718.636.3966

Tamboril (D)
527 Myrtle/718.483.2152

Luz (D)
177 Vanderbilt/718.246.4000

Chez Lola (D)
387 Myrtle/718.858.1484

Los Pollitos III (L/D)
499 Myrtle/718.636.6125

Five Spot Soul Food & Supper Club (D)
459 Myrtle/718.852.0202

Mojito Cuban Cuisine (L/D)
82 Washington/718.797.3100

Reservations are advised. A complete list of participating restaurants can be found on at the Brooklyn Tourism website: www.visitbrooklyn.org

Be There. Be a Part of Living History.

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 13:55:00 -0400

The Fort Greene Park Conservancy will present its plans for the 100th anniversary celebration of the Prison Ship Martyrs Monument at the next Fort Greene Association meeting on Monday, February 25th at 7:30p at the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church (85 South Oxford). Preview the 3-day centennial celebration event plans which will include the rededication of the Monument; the return of the bronze eagles at the base of the Monument; the lighting of the eternal flame; Revolutionary War enactors encamped in the Park; a grand ball; souvenir journal; original orchestral and choral work by Brooklyn composer, Alvin Singleton; fireworks; a multi-nation parade; jazz performances; genealogical research stations, and much, much more. Come out and celebrate your history. Come out and join your neighbors. Come out and learn how you can get involved. (photo from nycparks.gov website)

Buy Me Some Lovin'

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 13:43:00 -0400

Valentine's Day specials are available up and down the avenue, so bring your honey out to Myrtle Avenue to enjoy a very special, local Valentines Day. Shop, dine, pamper and even dance at your favorite area businesses. SHOP Karens Body Beautiful, 436 Myrtle, (718) 797-4808 Beautiful Valentines Day gift baskets available in all price ranges. Kiini Ibura Jewelry, 388 Myrtle, (718) 858-5195 10% off of all red jewelry (includes corals and garnets) 10% off of all candles. Sarafina Art & Gift Gallery, 411 Myrtle, (718) 522-1083 10-50% off a number of selected items: -15% off Caswell-Massey aromatherapy -10% and more off selected contemporary art -25% off handpainted fragrance lamps and tealight holders -25% off Votivo candles (Flower collection) PAMPER Polish Bar of Brooklyn, 470 Myrtle, (718) 622-5363 $25 manicure-pedicure on Tuesday and Wednesday, the 12th and 13th Body By Brooklyn, 275 Park, (718) 923-9400 Body By Brooklyn is featuring all sorts of specials for February 14th, from chocolate massages to live jazz to discounts on annual memberships. Joseph Tyler Salon, 456 Myrtle, (718) 802-9900 Treat yourself or a loved one to color this Valentine's season. Joseph Tyler Salon presents 15% off all hair colorings. Hurry in, the special ends on March 3rd. PASTRIES The Bakery, 154 Vanderbilt, (718) 596-5999 Special Valentines Day pastries: Shortbread heart cookies, available in red or chocolate, $1.50 - $2.00 Heart shaped cakes, red velvet and chocolate available, $32.00 each Round assorted 6 cakes covered in edible buttercream roses, $20.00 each Chocolate éclairs, cream puffs and brownies. DINE (note: RSVPs strongly recommended) abistro, 154 Carlton, (718) 855-9455 $70/ per person special prix fix dinner at 6pm, 8pm or 10pm Menu includes (appetizers) warm octupus salad, Senegalese pastel, or roasted cauliflower soup; (entrees) braised curry palm short ribs, wild mushroom asparagus crusted salmon or roasted vegetable medley; (dessert) chocolate cake or bread pudding or poached pomegranate pear; and what else, champagne...but of course. And if that weren't all, be tantalized by the sounds of cellist Monica Entyre as you dine. Luz, 177 Vanderbilt, (718) 246-4000 $52/ per person special five course tasting menu plus one drink. The special menu is still in the works. Please call Luz for the delectable details. Mojito Cuban Cuisine, 82 Washington, (718) 797-3100 $45/ per person special prix fix dinner includes appetizer sampler, Romeo & Juliet entrée, passion porkchop, chocolate temptation dessert and passion mimosa amongst the delicious offerings. Chez Lola, 387 Myrtle, (718) 858-1484 $32/ per person special prix fix dinner: (amuse bouche) grostini w/calamari & vegetable escabache; (appetizer) seasonal soup, baby spinach salad, serrano ham w/shaved manchego cheese, pear, herbed flat bread or salmon terrine w/dill sour cream and herbed croutons; (main course) free range chicken, oven roasted hake fillet, mint pesto crusted leg of lamb or guitarra pasta; (dessert) molten chocolate cake, sweet crepes w/mixed berry compote or chocolate truffles. DJ Toxy Lady will be spinning (or whatever verb is most fitting when we're talking 8-track tapes...lol)the sweet soul music. Maggie Brown, 455 Myrtle, (718) 643-7001 (offering choices from entire menu, or prix fix) $35/ per person special prix fix dinner: (appetizer) bacon wrapped scallops over greens with mango and avocado in an orange vinaigrette; (entree) lobster served with sautéed artichokes in a pea and sage puree (dessert)chocolate fondue with berries Tamboril Restaurant, 527 Myrtle, (718) 622-5130 Three fabulous prix fix choices at $40, $35 or $30/ per person (appetizer)coconut shrimp dipped in a coconut beer batter fried and served with a mango ginger sauce, bacalao and tostones platter: bacalao salad served on golden tostones topped with avocado, portabella lentil soup topped with fresh chives or Boston cup salad boston lettuce filled with avocado, corn salsa, cherry tomato and shredded carrots served with a citrus vinaigrette (entrees) ($40): pan seared red snapper in a Caribbean wine sauce, served with vegetables & seasoned white rice, ($35): seafood Paella: yellow rice mixed with shrimp, scallops, salmon and muscles sauté in white wine; or ($30) cilantro mango chicken: grilled chicken breast served with a demi glace and topped with a cilantro mango salsa served with vegetables & yellow rice; (dessert) coconut flan, bread pudding, mango cheesecake, carrot cake or flourless chocolate cake. I'LL TOAST TO THAT Gnarly Vines, 350 Myrtle, (718) 797-3183 Special three-night long Valentines Day tasting. Schramsberg Brut Rose, North Coast, CA $40 Mon, Tues & Wed, February 11-13 6pm-9pm. Paired with some decadent dark chocolate! Too late to snag a reservation for a prix-fixe dinner...might as well stay home and pop open a bottle of Schrammie Rose. Feel free to check out the other roses while youre at it: *Bodegas Llopart Reserva Rose Cava, Penedes, Spain $20 *Le Grand Cros, La Maitresse, Provence, France $24 *Varnier-Fannier, Brut Rose-Avize, Champagne, France $55 (10% off any wines poured during the tastings!) FLOWERS Bella Rosa Flowers, 566 Myrtle, (718) 636-0124 How much do I love thee...let me count the ways. Whether its a dozen long stemmed or a single white rose. Nothing says it better than flowers, of any kind. DANCE Move w/Grace, 469 Myrtle, (718) 230-0013 and (718) 670-7285 Enjoy a little early morning Kundalini yoga to start the day off. And then on the 15th, when the love is still flowing, bring your honey over to Salsa & Merengue at the studio.

First Fridays at RePOP: Today!

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:15:00 -0400

Come in out of the rain for this special exhibit which features the art of RePOP's owners, Carl and Russell. Come by for this month's: FIRST FRIDAY, on February 1, 2008: "FAMILY MATTER" Fine Art by Carl Grauer and Russell Boyle RePOP is pleased to announce February's exhibition featuring the fine art of Carl Grauer and Russell Boyle. Prone to collaborating in the shop on canvas and in life these artists have taken a long overdue sabbatical from conspiring together to present a series of individual works. "Family Matter" is a reflection of those ghosts buried in the closet beckoned out for examination. At times melancholy and other times whimsical, Grauer and Boyle bring the observer into a personal realm of portraiture and surreal interpretation granting permission to laugh at their own trials while taking us on a ride through the depth of them. Artist reception is 7:30 - 11pm every First Friday of the month. So come on down to the Navy Yard, grab a glass of wine, mingle with the artist and get your vintage groove on. Read more on their website: repopny.com or hey, just drop in, at RePOP 95% Recycled 68 Washington Avenue (Park/Flushing) 718.260.8032

Pratt Sustainability Teach-In this Wednesday and Thursday

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 19:20:00 -0400

Pratt Institute will star in Metropolis Magazine as one of the two schools nationwide that will be featured in its next issue as part of Focus The Nation, a national teach-in on global warming solutions for America taking place this week. The event, organized by Architecture 2030, will create a dialogue at over a thousand colleges, universities and other institutions, that will directly engage thousands of faculty and millions of students nationwide.

This week, Wednesday and Thursday, January 30th and 31st, the entire community is welcome to come meet over 30 of Pratt Institutes most illustrious faculty, administrators and special guests as they come together and offer a series of exciting programs that are highly relevant to Pratt students, educators, and the community at large. This is a unique opportunity to explore the impact of sustainability on the future careers of our artists, designers, and architects; see how Pratt is taking on the challenge to reduce its carbon footprint; and to be inspired by real world, environmentally conscience work that is being done by Pratts faculty.

You will also have the opportunity to see exhibits by studios, take part in a nationwide body painting competition sponsored by Architecture 2030 with $20,000 in prize money (the winner will have a full page ad in Metropolis), and meet some of the citys most vocal leaders in advocating change.

The full schedule of events and panels is here.

PEP Gallery Presents: ARTMART

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 19:01:00 -0400

PEP Gallery's ARTMART features gifts worth giving, with tons of great art pieces and prices starting at $10. Artist prints, limited editions, 'zines, and more... ARTMART runs from December 1st thru December 22nd. Special holiday reception on December 15th, 12p to 6pm. The Back Room: don't forget to take a peek in 'The Back Room' where PEP will be hosting a show of small, original works for under $800. PEP Gallery is located at: 64 Washington Avenue (Park/Flushing), and is open every Saturday from 12p-4p or by appointment. Additionally, PEP is open First Fridays of every month, 8p-10p. artwork shown: Ilana Kohn, Swing, digital print on rap paper, 2007, edition of 100.

RePOP First Fridays: December 7th

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 18:48:00 -0400
Sandra Rocha's "Existing Decay" reveals some quiet, undeclared beauty in the mundane everyday scenery of life, to entice the viewer to contemplate what is otherwise overlooked. Whether a gritty street corner or a distressed chair, she extracts something extraordinary about the subject, emphasizing all the imperfections and quirks that give it character. Festive music and refreshments will be served. -----
RePOP's December 2007 Happenings: Dec. 7th: 7:30p to 11:00p First Fridays Opening Reception Dec. 15th: 12:00p to 7:00p Miss Ellie Trunk Show featuring Ellie's newest jewelry and her limited edition aquariums, terrariums and keepsake boxes. Dec. 15th thru Dec. 31st: End of Year Holiday Sale delightful bargains on all shop merchandise RePOP 95% Recycled is located at: 68 Washington Avenue (Park/Flushing) 718.260.8032

Gnarly Vines Grand Opening Party

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 13:27:00 -0400
Remember to join us for the grand opening party of Gnarly Vines, Myrtle's new wine boutique, on Thursday, November 8th at 6 pm, at 350 Myrtle. Free wine, and food tastings from local restaurants, and 15% off full or mixed cases. Also, we'll be unveiling our new, re-usable Home Grown & Locally Owned shopping bags, available in 6 colors, with 50 bags given away free to the first 50 customers who purchase wine the evening of the party. Everyone is welcome!

Halloween in Fort Greene Park

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 18:41:00 -0400
Sponsored by the Fort Greene Park Conservancy, the Fort Greene Park Halloween Festival will take place on Sunday, October 28th, from noon to 4pm. 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 at 3:30 pm. Sunday, October 28th, 12noon to 1pm: Voted Best Halloween Dog Costume Contest (see photo left) in 2005 by the Village Voice, 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. Please check out the Fort Greene Park Conservancy or the Fort Greene PUPS websites for further information.

Havana Nights Party at Mojito

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 17:48:00 -0400
Mojito Cuban Cuisine presents a "Havana Nights" inspired costume party on Saturday, October 27th, beginning at 10pm. Come out, ready to have a grand time. RSVP at mariakvelez @mojitocubancuisine.net or call Mojito Cuban Cuisine at 718.797.3100 for further information.

Featuring:
-live music
-rum and wine tastings
-cigar rolling
-salsa dancers
-gift bags
-and prizes for the best "Havana Night" inspired costumes

Mojito Cuban Cuisine is located at 82 Washington Avenue (Park/Flushing)

First Fridays at RePOP: October 5

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:32:00 -0400
On October 5th from 7:30pm to 11pm, RePOP invites you to join them at the shop for their First Friday group show entitled "Under All The Rocks We Have Ever Found" featuring the mixed media works of husband and wife duo Amy Michelle Asher & Arian Gimbutas. With Amy working primarily in tar and Arian in bleach (combinined with oil and ink), both artists explore the vastness of space and light. The colors they are able to discover within two such contrasting mediums is at once haunting and astounding. This particular collection, all created within the last year, offers a beautiful entrance into the fall season with an adornment of abstract landscapes, illustrative renderings and unique musings. The shop will be open for business on this special evening offering a first hand glimpse at Asher and Gimbutas' collection. Come down to the Navy Yard and enjoy a wonderful social event with complimentary wine, snacks and 10% off all merchandise. New arrivals include: American Folk Art from the 1930's - 1950's, Vintage Stamp Collections, Antique Chemistry Beakers and Wares, the stunning new jewelry collection from Miss Ellie, a pluthera of fantastic furnishings and lighting from the mid-century and beyond, vintage house dresses from the 50's and 60's and just in time for Halloween...a new crazed doll baby assortment! RePOP 95% Recycled is located at 68 Washington Avenue (Park/Flushing). Check out their website or give them a call at 718.260.8032 for further detail.

A Toast to Gnarly Vines: Myrtle's New Wine Boutique

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:13:00 -0400
UPDATE 2: Please join us for a grand opening celebration at Gnarly Vines on Thursday, November 8th, at 6pm. Enjoy free wine tastings and samples of food pairings from local restaurants. UPDATE: Please join Gnarly Vines for the first of many free winemaker tasting events: Wednesday, October 3rd from 6-8pm at Gnarly Vines, 350 Myrtle Avenue (between Carlton and Adelphi). Chrystal Clifton of Brewer-Clifton and Palmina Wineries will be pouring the following spectacular, handcrafted, small-production wines made by her, her husband Steve and their partner Greg Brewer:
2006 Palmina Malvasia Bianca, Larner Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley (187 cases produced)
2005 Palmina Dolcetto, Santa Barbara County
2005 Brewer-Clifton, Cargasacchi Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills (576 cases produced)
2005 Melville, Estate-Verna's Syrah, Santa Barbara County (2864 cases produced)
Gnarly Vines, named after the thick old, gnarly vines that undisputedly and consistently produce the finest wines, opened this past week in Fort Greene on Myrtle Avenue between Carlton and Adelphi. Brian Robinson, a 5-year Fort Greene resident and the proprietor of Myrtles new wine boutique, is adamant that wine should be accessible for everyone to enjoy. If you want to get Brian's goat, try to equate wine or wine enthusiasm with snobbery. From $6 to $600 per bottle, Gnarly Vines specializes in small production, handcrafted wines made by winemakers who employ sustainable and stricter agricultural methods whenever possible. Most importantly, Brian and his staff will not put wine on their shelves unless they themselves approve. We have a few under $10 wines, says Brian, including a $6 Garnacha (red) from Spain and a $7 Viognier (white) from Argentina. In direct contrast to the extensive wood, curly cues and barrels that are popular wine store motif, Gnarly Vines is wall-to-wall, steel and stone: a haven of sleek modernity in what is usually overwhelmingly old world imagery. I was merely designing a place that was solid, highly functional and where I would feel comfortable coming to work for the next, say, 20 years, says Brian whose impressive experiences range from wine director at some of the countrys finest restaurants, to wine director at venues such as Phillips Auctioneers, winebid.com and Christies. Brian's experiences have been well balanced by the fact that most of his earliest experiences with the grape were in social and not academic settings. Brian developed a love and respect for wine at the age of 15 during a high school exchange program to France. The family I stayed with discussed wines and the various regions of origin and characteristics as dinner conversation, stated Brian. His next occasions to France were in college during a semester abroad and an internship at an industrial gas distribution facility. I was there to glean industrial knowledge for the family welding business and found myself hanging out with truck drivers, in a very working class industrial area not unlike Maspeth, Queens, who cooked and enjoyed savory meals from the front seat of their trucks like rabbit stew with leeks and endives, accompanied by complementary wines. He adds, so you see, my early experiences with wines were absent the snob appeal that many equate with wines. Wine for me is simply about enjoyment. The company, circumstances and atmosphere are really what make wine," says Brian, adding, I would rather enjoy a good bottle of wine with great friends than a great bottle of wine without. Brian shares that he is thrilled to finally be open for business and feels it a privilege to be open in his own neighborhood. "I am so grateful to so many for an outpouring of support, including members of the local CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) of which I have been member for 5 years." So, how does Myrtles favorite oenophile enjoy himself outside of wine: Im a competitive swimmer (Brians latest swim adventure was under the Brooklyn Bridge, from Brooklyn to Manhattan); and I adore spending time with my wife and kids, other family members and friends. Brians favorite wine: Richebourg, a Burgundy from Vosne-Romanée. Much is planned at Gnarly Vines, including a grand opening party in November (stay tuned); free wine tastings which will occur at the store multiple times per week; and food and wine pairings at local restaurants. Clouds, a photo exhibit by local artist Susan Egan is currently on display at Gnarly Vines. Please stop in at Gnarly Vines to say hello, taste(regular, free in-store wine tastings) and stock up on great wines. Gnarly Vines is located at 350 Myrtle Avenue (Carlton/Adelphi). Please call the store at (718) 797-3183 for further detail.

Wednesdays and Saturdays at Pillow Cafe

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 17:23:00 -0400
At this rate, you can laugh it up on hump day and boogie right on through the weekend at Pillow Cafe at 505 Myrtle between Ryerson and Grand: WEDNESDAYS: "First Wednesdays" at Pillow Cafe. Comedy every first Wednesday of the month at Pillow. Come out and laugh it up with local and national talent. SATURDAYS: Come out and party every Saturday. Enjoy DJ Exceed playing the best in jazz, soul, reggae and hiphop. Happy hour is 4pm to 8pm Show time is 7pm to 10pm New events, same GREAT food! See you there. Pillow Cafe is located at 505 Myrtle Avenue (Ryerson/Grand). Call (718) 246-2711 for further details.

Park(ing) Day on Myrtle Drives Business Activity

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 12:58:00 -0400
The one-day Adami Park on Myrtle between Washington and Waverly was a huge success, and brought out a great mix of both planned and spontaneous street life. Additionally, in an important part of the story that seems to have been under-reported in other stories covering Park(ing) Day, the temporary park and the people it attracted were a boon for the two businesses in front of which the park was setup. Il Torchio, the new Italian restaurant at 458 Myrtle, reported a 20-30% increase in its lunch business as compared to a typical weekday, with almost half of its lunch crowd being new customers. Joseph Tyler Salon, a high-end salon at 456 Myrtle, did double the business it expected to do for the day, with the majority being walk-ins and first-time customers.

In addition to a Pratt industrial design class holding its morning session in the park, musicians, avenue merchants, and local residents spent time enjoying the greenspace. During lunch, what seemed like the entire Adami family showed up to have lunch from Il Torchio. Many local residents gave feedback on our recently-released Placemaking Reports from which we hope to create permanent pocket parks or neighborhood plazas in the future.

Additional photos from Myrtle Avenue's Park(ing) Day are available for viewing and download at our flickr site.

Brooklyn Book Festival this Sunday

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 16:03:00 -0400
The 2nd Annual Brooklyn Book Festival will take place this Sunday, September 16th from 10am to 6pm at Brooklyn Boro Hall and Plaza in Downtown Brooklyn. The free fest will feature readings and panels on multiple indoor and outdoor stages, a Target Childrens Area, an Independence Community Foundation Young Writers Pavilion, and more than 100 exhibitors, including bookstores, publishers, and literary organizations. As part of the days events, the Brooklyn Public Library will kick off its borough-wide Big Read featuring Harper Lees To Kill a Mockingbird. Authors include: A.M. Homes, George Packer, Edwidge Danticat, David Bouley, Pete Hamill, Chuck Klosterman, Gloria Naylor, Jonathan Lethem, Jon Scieszka, Gail Carson Levine, Francine Prose, Mo Willems, Reverend Run, Melissa Marr, Uzodinma Iweala, Colson Whitehead, Mary Gaitskill, Kimiko Hahn, Charles Hynes, and more! Additional information is available at www.brooklynbookfestival.org and (718) 802-3846

Fort Greene Fest this Saturday

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 18:17:00 -0400
A celebration of the cultures, cuisine and artistic diversity of Brooklyn." The first annual Fort Greene Fest will take place this Saturday, September 8th, from 12p to 10p at Fort Greene Park. Mainstage entertainment begins at 2pm with musician headliner Talib Kweli. Film, includes actress/director, Rosie Perezs new Yo Soy Boricua." Many of the local restaurants that we know and love will also be present and in full effect. Pop DJ and local entrepreneur Dahved Levy from WBLS will be "rockin' you, rockin' you..." Stop in: join your neighborhors and have a blast. Read more about the Fort Greene Fest at www.fortgreenefest.com.

MetroTech's 'Arts on the Commons' Begins this Friday

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 10:24:00 -0400
The free, outdoor lunchtime concert series known as Arts in the Commons, starts up this Friday, August 31st, at MetroTech Commons, on Myrtle Avenue between Jay Street and Flatbush. Organized by the MetroTech BID, the concerts take place between 12pm and 2 pm, and kick off with Quimbombó, a band that blends Cuban dance rhythms such as the son, mambo, bolero, rumba and chachacha with jazz and blues to create a lively and unique sound that has excited audiences throughout New York City.

Full Schedule:
Friday, August 31- Quimbombó
Friday, September 7- Ginetta's Vendetta
Friday, September 14- Dominic Kanza and the African Rhythm Machine
Friday, September 21- Felix Swing Band
Friday, September 28- LIU Jazz Ensemble

Final Fort Greene Park Film with Food from Tamboril

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 09:52:00 -0400
Tonight, Thursday the 30th, is the final summer film in Fort Greene Park, with Nuevo Latino food from Tamboril, the new Myrtle Avenue restaurant that opened last Saturday. Tamboril, located at 527 Myrtle between Grand and Steuben, will offer a sampling of their regular menu, including coconut tostones, bacalao cakes, empanaditas, and plantains.

Starting at dusk, the Fort Greene Park Conservancy in association with American Opera Project (AOP), will present an evening of "Baseball through the Eye of the Artist".

First AOP presents scenes from its opera-under-development "The Summer King" by Daniel Sonenberg. The protagonist of the opera is Josh Gibson, the renowned negro-league baseball slugger whose tragic story ended just before Jackie Robinson broke through the color barrier with The Brooklyn Dodgers. Using a contemporary musical language of jazzy melodies and jagged harmonies the opera portrays Gibson as a mythic character trapped by societal circumstances: a mega-athlete emotionally unable to weather the strong tides of change.

Then the films begins, with the Conservancy presenting "Bang The Drum Slowly," the acclaimed 1973 baseball film that marked the beginning of Robert DeNiros illustrious film career. Directed by John D. Hancock focuses on the intense brotherly relationship between a star pitcher and his less talented, terminally ill catcher.

Rooftop Films in FG Park this Saturday

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 17:36:00 -0400
Come out this Saturday to Fort Greene Park on Myrtle Avenue and North Portland for the 3rd in the park's summer film series. Rooftop Films will be presenting "Welcome to Nollywood", a feature-length documentary on the Nigerian Film Industry, the 3rd largest film industry in the world.

A full program description and movie synopsis is here. The basics are below.

Saturday, August 25th, 2007
5:00 - 8:30: DJ Stone and Rich Medina
8:30 - 9:00: Live Music by the Obara Melli
9:00: Welcome to Nollywood
Admission: FREE
Venue: On the lawn of Fort Greene Park
Address: N. Portland Ave and Myrtle Avenue
Rain: In the event of rain, show will be rescheduled for Sunday, Aug. 26th
Call 718.417.7362 for additional information.

The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership is a co-sponsor of the film screening, in partnership with Rooftop Films, The National Black Programming Consortium, IFC.com, New York magazine & Council Member Letitia James.

Clinton Hill Art Gallery Hosts History Chats

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 16:35:00 -0400
This Sunday, the Clinton Hill Art Gallery begins its 3rd Annual Parlor Chats Summer Sizzler event, from 2 to 4 pm at 154A Vanderbilt just off Myrtle. SUNDAY, AUGUST 19TH, 2pm 4pm Greg Trupiano of the Walt Whitman Project hosts readings and talks on the presence of Walt Whitman in the Fort Greene/ Clinton Hill neighborhood. SUNDAY, AUGUST 26TH, 2pm 4pm The Vincent Sisters (Margaret & Joan Vincent) have called Clinton Hill home since the 1930s. They will share their coming of age experiences within the context of the changing landscape of the Fort Greene/ Clinton Hill neighborhood. Location: Clinton Hill Art Gallery 154A Vanderbilt Avenue (just south of Myrtle Avenue) G train to Clinton Washington Avenue Station. Walk north towards Myrtle Avenue. Also near the B54 Vanderbilt Avenue bus stop. Parlor Chats Summer Sizzler events are FREE of charge but reservations are required. Seating begins at 2pm sharp. Wine & cheese. Press packets are available. Please RSVP to: (718) 852-0227 or (718) 857-0074

Soul Summit this Sunday in FG Park

Fri, 13 Jul 2007 15:30:00 -0400
This Sunday starts up the first of four Soul Summit music festivals in Fort Greene Park this summer. The party takes place from 3 pm to 9 pm on Sunday the 15th, on the west side of the hill in Fort Greene Park. Soul Summit always brings out a great crowd of all ages, fantastic sounds, and some amazing dancing. Be sure to come by, and if not this weekend, there are more Soul Summit events coming up.

Block Party Draws a Crowd

Mon, 02 Jul 2007 11:01:00 -0400
Yesterday's Block Party on Clinton Avenue at Myrtle, hosted by the BID, BAM, and Afro-Punk, drew a huge crowd of dancers, vendors , shoppers, and spectators. DJ Rich Medina extended his set another hour to keep the crowd happy, the t-shirt screen printing was hugely popular, and residents were out on their stoops, porches, and roofs, enjoying the music and people watching.
We'd like to thank everyone who came, all of the artists and musicians, the residents of Clinton Avenue who hosted us for the day, and BAM and Afro-Punk for partnering with us to put on a great party. Feel free to send us an email with any feedback, to info at myrtleavenue dot org.

Enjoy some great Flickr photos we found (not ours) from some who came to the party:
jdubbyya
sherealcool

This Sunday: Afro-Punk Block Party

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 15:29:00 -0400
This weekend, on Sunday, July 1st from 12 to 5 pm, we've teamed up with BAM and Afro-Punk to host a block party on Clinton Avenue between Myrtle & Willoughby. The party will feature an artisans market, fashion and jewelry designers, and food from local Myrtle Avenue retaurants. Music by DJs Rich Medina and The Dustbin Brothers, and a live set by No Surrender.

The block party is part of BAM's Afro-Punk Festival, which gets started this evening, Thursday, June 28th at 7 pm at BAM, 30 Lafayette Avenue, with a discussion with Bobby Seale, followed by a free reception at 8:30.

Tonight: Film in Fort Greene Park

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 10:14:00 -0400
The 2nd film in this summer's film series is this evening on the Myrtle lawn, with the family friendly and pet friendly feature Cats & Dogs. Music starts at 8 pm, the film at 9 pm, on the lawn facing Myrtle Avenue between North Portland and Washington Park. Food will be for sale from Maggie Brown, Olea, and Pequena. Pets welcome!

This summer's Fort Greene Park film series is brought to you by the Fort Greene Park Conservancy, Councilmember Letitia James, and the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership.

More films to come!

Mojito Cuban Cuisine Featured on TVOne

Thu, 31 May 2007 17:57:00 -0400
Mojito Cuban Cuisine was recently featured in a segment on TVOne's popular cooking show, Turning Up the Heat with G. Garvin. Host and chef Gerry Garvin had an opportunity to experience what we in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill have been raving about forever. Check out TVOne segment featuring Mojito Cuban Cuisine, then swing by the restaurant for lunch, brunch or dinner. Mojito Cuban Cuisine (718.797.3100) is located at 82 Washington Avenue, between Park and Flushing. Call for further detail: 718.797.3100.

First Fridays at RePOP...Don't Miss It!

Thu, 31 May 2007 17:11:00 -0400
Join RePOP 95% Recycled this Friday, June 1st at 7:30pm for Hook-ups & Meanderings featuring fine art by Ellie Balk. FIRST FRIDAY JUNE 1ST: Hook-Ups & Meanderings by Ellie Balk The series of work on exhibition is an expression of both tension and beauty, and the balance of the space that lives between the extremes. Urban, raw nature, tone, color, line, expression, documentation, fantasy....these things find harmony on found objects and canvases. Complimentary wine reception is from 7:30pm - 11pm so come on down the the Navy Yard, mingle with the art and get your vintage groove on! Instead of the usual 10% promotion, this First Friday they will be donating 10% of all proceeds to a very dear 8 year old Huskie named Otto. Recently, Otto moved to Pennsylvania with his mommie, Amy, and a few days ago collapsed while on a walk in the park. Otto is suffering from paralysis in all four of his legs and in need of surgery to remedy the situation. This surprising attack on Otto's otherwise healthy nervous system has been quite frightening for both Otto and Amy. Please send them your utmost positive thoughts and help them to help them with a successful breakthrough surgery. RePop (718.260.8032) is located at 68 Washington Avenue, between Park and Flushing. Please visit the RePOP website for further detail.

This Saturday: Short Films in Fort Greene Park

Thu, 31 May 2007 12:08:00 -0400
Fort Greene Park will be kicking off its summer film series with Rooftop Films this Saturday, June 2nd, on the hill fronting Myrtle Avenue between Washington Park and North Portland. A live music performance will start at 8:30 pm, and the short films program will start at 9 pm. (Raindate is Sunday, June 3rd). Food will be for sale onsite from Castro's Mexican Restaurant, located at 511 Myrtle.

The show, "Black + White = Grey", includes quirky comedies, startling dramas, and powerful political documentaries about racial misunderstandings, subtle deceptions, and flat-out lies. The evening kicks of Rooftop Films' summer film series, with screenings taking place throughout the summer in locations around the city.

Call 718.417.7362, or visit www.rooftopfilms.com for additional information.

The evening is presented in partnership with IFC.com, New York magazine, Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership (that's us) & Council Member Letitia James.

Please check back here, or visit the website of the Fort Greene Park Conservancy for the dates of other film screenings and other events in Fort Greene Park.

SONYA Studio Stroll - this Weekend

Thu, 17 May 2007 10:59:00 -0400
Take a look inside the working artist studios of the members of South of the Navy Yard Artists (SONYA), this Saturday and Sunday, from 12 pm to 6 pm. There are 31 different studios and galleries that will be open to the public, located throughout the neighborhoods bounded roughly by Atlantic Avenue and the Brooklyn Navy Yard. The map up open studios is available for download at SONYA's website.

South Of the Navy Yard Artists, (SONYA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization of visual artists living, creating, and exhibiting in the Ft. Greene, Clinton Hill, Wallabout, and Bedford Stuyvesant neighborhoods of Brooklyn. We are as diverse and dynamic as the community we serve. Our mission is to recognize, support, and celebrate the visual art and artists within our community.

It's My Park Day - this Saturday

Thu, 17 May 2007 10:38:00 -0400
Come to Fort Greene Park this Saturday, May 19th, from 10 AM to 1 PM, to help out with plantings, decorate trash cans with images of flora and fauna, and to otherwise beautify our neighborhood park. For more information, visit the NYC Dept of Parks & Recreation or the Fort Greene Park Conservancy websites.

Also, if you haven't seen it yet, the Department of Parks & Recreations named Fort Greene Park as its park of the month for May. The press release provides a good overivew of the park, its history, the new Fort Greene Park Tree Trail, and other current program offerings.

Pink Elephant Projects Opening Reception

Fri, 04 May 2007 17:14:00 -0400
The recently arrived PEP gallery in Wallabout, located at 64 Washington Avenue, is having its first opening reception in its new home tonight, Friday, May 4th, from 8 to 10 pm. The show that is premiering is "Denial and Acceptance" by Pratt-graduate Charles Lutz. It's great to see some locally-trained artists setting up gallery space in the neighborhood, so be sure to check it out and show your support.

Clinton Hill House Tour this Sunday

Wed, 02 May 2007 16:32:00 -0400
Come experience the beauty and history of one of Brooklyns premier landmark neighborhoods this coming Sunday, May 6th, for the 30th Anniversary Clinton Hill House Tour. Stroll along the tree-lined streets to see a stunning variety of architectural styles and take advantage of the rare opportunity to see the interiors and private gardens of 12 beautifully restored houses and buildings. A number of specials and discounts will be available from participating Myrtle Avenue merchants on the day of the tour as well. Check out the ads in the House Tour Guide that will be distributed at St. Luke's Church on the day of the tour for details. PayPal Tickets for the house tour may be purchased by visiting The Society for Clinton Hill website. Advance tickets are also for sale at the following locations:
Pillow Café, 505 Myrtle Avenue between Ryerson & Grand
Outpost Café, 1014 Fulton Street near Grand
Sisters Hardware, 902 Fulton Street @ Washington Avenue
Tillies Coffee Bar, 248 DeKalb Avenue @ Vanderbilt Avenue
Yu Interiors, 15 Greene Avenue @ Cumberland Street
House Tour Details:
Sunday, May 6th, 12 noon 5pm, rain or shine.
Advance Ticket sales $20; Day of Tour ticket $25
Tour starts at St. Lukes Church, 259 Washington Avenue (between Lafayette and DeKalb Avenues) Directions by Subway:
A or C trains to Hoyt-Schermerhorn, then G train to Clinton/Washington; or C train to Washington/Clinton Stop. From the Society for Clinton Hill:
Tucked cozily off downtown Brooklyn, residential Clinton Hill was built in the 19th century as the boroughs gold Coast. It is uniquely saturated with free-standing mansions erected by such distinguished and prominent industrialists of their time as the Pratts (oil), the Underwoods (typewriters), the Singers (sewing machines), and the Bristols and Pfizers (pharmaceuticals). The neighborhoods architectural styles include Italianate brownstones, Neo-Georgian, Queen Anne, Romanesque and Greek Revival houses which all rub shoulders with Beaux-Arts apartments and hotels. Clinton Hill also has what may be the largest number of carriage houses in the city.

The fantastic houses and buildings on the Clinton Hill House Tour provide significant insight for all those interested in historic homes and their renovations. The tour engages visitors by providing a glimpse of the past and a snapshot of the neighborhoods vibrant diverse community. Pratt Institute and St. Josephs College impart the feeling of a small university town while its many grand churches (still among the tallest structures here) give one the feeling of traveling back in time. Two of the original Pratt mansions and Pratt Institutes Library with the interior designed by Tiffany Studios will be part of this years tour.

The Society for Clinton Hill House Tour is the primary fund-raiser for this not-for-profit organization, a neighborhood group celebrating its 30th anniversary. Proceeds from the tour help sponsor a variety of educational, historical preservation, social programs within the community. Most importantly it provides a public forum where neighbors can gather to discuss important issues concerning their community.

It's All About You, Dahling!

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:39:00 -0400
Never missing an opportunity to pamper Fort Greene and Clinton Hill residents, the Polish Bar of Brooklyn is at it again... The Polish Bar of Brooklyn in partnership with Robin Lester of the Clinton Hill Blog invites you to nominate a Clinton Hill resident for the monthly interview profiles they simply title, 'Clinton Hill: Personal Profiles.' Selected interviewees are wined, pampered and...well, this is the Polish Bar, silly, polished. The royal treatment includes complimentary pedicure at the Polish Bar and wine from the Greene Grape. The goal is to highlight Clinton Hill's "diverse and dynamic demography." If you or someone you know would be a good candidate for a profile, please send e-mail to: clintonhillblog@gmail.com The Polish Bar of Brooklyn is located at 470 Myrtle Avenue. Please call (718) 622-5363 or visit their website Profiles can be viewed at the Clinton Hill Blog

First Fridays at RePOP--April 6

Mon, 02 Apr 2007 16:08:00 -0400
In celebration of their recent article in Best of NY Magazine 2007 please join RePOP at their next First Friday event featuring the Bejewelled Beauties Collection offered by John and Ellie Mathias. John and Ellie will be showcasing their artisan jewelry, decorative arts, ephemera and gilded paintings. Be prepared for a wonderful assortment of fantastic people and belly dancing performed by none other than the fabulous artist herself: Miss Ellie. Complimentary wine reception is 7:30 - 11pm, so pull on your favorite digs, come on down to the Navy Yard, mingle with the art and get your vintage groove on! All furniture, decoratives and collectibles in shop on First Friday are 10% off. Show runs until the last day of April. New show goes up May 4! Join us! Please visit RePOP's website: RePOP 95% Recycled

Brooklyn Restaurant Week is here!

Thu, 08 Mar 2007 17:35:00 -0400
Dine In Brooklyn, Brooklyn's fourth annual Restaurant Week, is March 19 - 30, 2007. The price for lunch and dinner is $21.12.(Beverages, tax, and tip not included and some restaurants are only participating in lunch or dinner, some are doing both). A number of Myrtle Avenue area restaurants participating including: Chez Lola (D) 387 Myrtle Avenue 718-858-1484 Five Spot (D) 459 Myrtle Avenue 718-852-0202 Los Pollitos III (L/D) 499 Myrtle Avenue 718-636-6125 Luz Restaurant (D) 177 Vanderbilt Avenue 718-246-4000 Maggie Brown Restaurant (D) 455 Myrtle Avenue 718-643-7001 Mojito Cuban Cuisine (L/D) 82 Washington Avenue 718-797-3100 Reservations are advised. A complete list of participating restaurants can be found on the Brooklyn Tourism website

Society for Clinton Hill New Comer's Party

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 12:18:00 -0400
Pillow Cafe will be the location of the Society for Clinton Hill's New Comer's Party, inviting all those "new" to the neighborhood for dinner and drinks with the "old timers". Friday, February 23, 2007 7:00 to 10:00 pm At the new location of Robin & Biola's Pillow Cafe, 505 Myrtle Avenue (between Ryerson & Grand) The "old timers" of Clinton Hill will bring their favorite dish. SCH will provide all beverages. Children welcome. Everyone please invite those new to the area from your block, your building, your child's school, or your gym to join us. Please RSVP to Roslyn Huebener at 718-499-8382 ext. 11, by, Tuesday, February 20th, so that we can plan the food and drinks accordingly. (There is no provision for re-heating or cooking at the party, so bring your favorite dish "ready to eat.") We look forward to greeting old and new friends alike on Friday, February 23, at the charming and lovely Pillow Café.

Community Welcomes Bank of America

Wed, 31 Jan 2007 16:36:00 -0400
Yesterday afternoon's Bank of America Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening party had a great turnout by community residents, business owners, elected officials, and Bank of America executives and staff. Flora Urrea, the manager of the new banking center, emceed the event, first introducing the Bank of America team to those in attendance, and then inviting up a number of guest speakers, including Carolyn Sanders-James from the Mayor's Office, Councilwoman Tish James, Pratt President Thomas Schutte, and Kostas Koutsagelos, Bank of America's Consumer Market Executive for the region.

'Home Grown & Locally Owned'

Wed, 31 Jan 2007 14:29:00 -0400
A new marketing campaign highlighting Myrtle's mom & pop businesses was launched during yesterday's Bank of America grand opening event. Home Grown & Locally Owned is an effort to showcase our local entrepreneurs and entice our neighbors to shop close to home in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. Meet your neighbors in business. Support your local economy. Buy locally-owned. This first phase of the campaign features postcards and ads of 18 local businesses: Cafe Martino, Clinton Hill Hardware, Connecticut Muffin, Duncan's Fish Market, Five Spot Soul Food & Supper Club, Head Over Heels, Jive Turkey, Karen's Body Beautiful, Maggie Brown, Myrtle Pharmacy, Parlor Jazz, Polish Bar of Brooklyn, PrattStore, RePOP 95% Recycled, Saddledown Bed & Breakfast, Tres Elegante, Vanderbilt Auto Care, Zaytoons Be on the lookout for more of your favorite local businesses in future phases of the campaign. Merchant banners will hang on lot fence at Myrtle-Waverly until evening today. Campaign postcards can be found in merchant stores beginning next week.

Bank of America Grand Opening Party: Jan 30th, 4 pm

Mon, 08 Jan 2007 17:03:00 -0400
Be sure to mark your calendars for the upcoming Bank of America ribbon cutting and grand opening party. Open to the public, the event will have all sorts of free gifts and prizes, cash bonuses for opening bank accounts, food and wine from local merchants, music, and more. Check back for updates!

myrtle minutes - Local Events

FREE Events Abound Around Myrtle This Weekend!

Prince Street Gets a Spruce Up!

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

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

#farm2nabe -- meals like this!

Bike the Branches, Saturday, May 11th

Join Us For a Free Janes Walk in Wallabout this Saturday!

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

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

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

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

Free Bike Helmets -- stay safer on wheels!

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

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

Dine in Brooklyn Week 2013: March 11-12

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

Celebrate Black Artstory Month on Myrtle this February!

MARP New Year's Fundraiser this Monday!

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

Fall Health Fair at Myrtle Village Green this Sunday

Didgeridoo Workshop at Trilok this Sunday, 10/14

A History of Launching Ships @ BLDG 92

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

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

Free Walt Whitman Walking Tour this Sunday

Fort Greene House Tour Select this Saturday, 5/5!

Explore Wallabout with a Jane's Walk

Greene Hill School students explore Myrtle, the neighborhood!

Employment & Entrepreneurial Opportunities around Fort Greene

Pre-Valentine's Day Event at the Toren Condos + along Myrtle Avenue

Valentine Day on Myrtle (+ V-Day preview with the Toren Condos)

Super Bowl XLVI on Myrtle Avenue!

Myrtle and Adelphi Update: GWay pushes ahead

Bill Lee Peforming at MARP's Holiday Fundraiser - this Wednesday!

Brian Lehrer Live @ Pratt on Dec. 8th

MARP's Holiday Fundraiser at Putnam's Pub & Cooker is on Wed, Dec 7th!

Small Biz Saturday is Nov. 26th: Trolley Loops Myrtle + Fulton!

Author, Colson Whitehead to speak @ St. Joseph's College on 11/30

Bike Share Open House @ Red Lantern Bicycles, Thursday, 11/17

Building 92 at the Brooklyn Navy Yard Opens on Veteran's Day

Halloween on Myrtle + Beyond: BOO!!

Great Turnout for BID Annual Meeting

BID Annual Meeting w/Speaker Christine Quinn this Tuesday at SoCo

Park(ing) Day 2011 on Myrtle Avenue is this Friday, 9/16

National Night Out Against Crime: TODAY

Historic Districts Council walking tour, 7/27

Food Conversations @ BPL's Whitman Branch

'Battle for Brooklyn' Film Screening in Fort Greene Park

This Weekend: Studio Stroll and Brunch on Myrtle!

Clinton Hill House Tour on Sunday, May 1st

Fort Greene and Clinton Hill Teams Invited to Help Build Kids Playground in Williamsburg

First Ever Brooklyn Baby Expo this Sunday at the Toren, 150 Myrtle Avenue

Wallabout Walking Tour, Historic Districts Council Conference - this weekend

Black History Month Film Series @ the BPL's Whitman Branch

Hollywood in Brooklyn Hosted At Anima

MulchFest 2011 @ Fort Greene Park - January 8th and 9th

And the winners are....

Share the Holiday Spirit with Neighbors in Need

Celebrate the Holidays on Myrtle!

MARP Marathoner

Halloween in Fort Greene Park

Teen Battle Chefs at Move About Myrtle

Move About Myrtle 9/26: A parade, a mini-bike giveaway, and a sidewalk chalk contest!

Calling all "Curious Pedestrians" to Myrtle this Sunday...

Move About Myrtle 9/19: A Curious Pedestrian, BAMcafe' Live, and activities for the family

Park(ing) Day After Party - Under the BQE

Move About Myrtle grooves into week 2...

Get your groove on at Move About Myrtle

Move About Myrtle will make you HEALTHY!

Counting down to MOVE ABOUT MYRTLE!

Celebrate Fresh Food at the Myrtle Eats Fresh Kick-Off Event!

Join us at the 2nd Annual Summer Fort Greene/ Clinton Hill Progressives' Potluck & Gathering

Garden Workshop Series at Ingersoll Garden of Eden Rolls On!

Move About Myrtle returns this September! Get involved!

Garden Workshop Series at the Garden of Eden

Myrtle Avenue Farm Stand Opens Today, 7.8.10, 4-7PM!!

Play Me, I'm Yours

Tickle the Ivories, Tap Your Feet: Make Music New York is Monday!

Weekend Tours of the Local Neighborhood

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

Move About Myrtle more programs added for September 6th!