CB 12 (Kensington) meetings are held most often at the AMICO center (5901 13th ave, 3rd floor) which is across the street from the CB office. The entrance is on 59th street.
Meetings are usually the 4th Tuesday of the month from Sept to June
718.851.0800
Community Board 14 (Kensington)
Meetings are the Second Monday
810 East 16th Street
718.859.6357
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Where the Bobos Now Buy In Brooklyn
Take the train to savings! Sheepshead Bay, Bay Ridge, Kensington—the first-time buyers are flocking there
For first-time buyers, the trade-off between convenience and environmentoften leads to longer commutes but quieter home living. Julie Seltzer, a33-year-old transportation planner, and her husband bought a house inKensington in 2004. Ms. Seltzer travels 45 minutes to and from midtownManhattan every day.
After renting a house with her husband in Bensonhurst for four years, Ms.Seltzer knew she wanted to buy a home in a similarly quiet Brooklynneighborhood.
She and her husband live in a three-bedroom postwar co-op, and it tookthem two years and countless trips to Bay Ridge, Fort Greene and CarrollGardens to find it. They paid $313,000 for their apartment back in 2004,and similar units in the neighborhood are now on the market for over$500,000.
“We like the neighborhood a lot,” Ms. Seltzer said. “We like that it issafe, close to the train and a five-minute walk to Prospect Park.”
Back in her postcollege years, Ms. Seltzer, who was born and raised inQueens, thought about living in Manhattan, but she’s happy where she isnow. “It’s nice not to have 100 people running outside your door everyday. It’s quiet and more relaxing in Brooklyn and it feels moreneighborhoody here than in Manhattan.”
Take the train to savings! Sheepshead Bay, Bay Ridge, Kensington—the first-time buyers are flocking there
For first-time buyers, the trade-off between convenience and environmentoften leads to longer commutes but quieter home living. Julie Seltzer, a33-year-old transportation planner, and her husband bought a house inKensington in 2004. Ms. Seltzer travels 45 minutes to and from midtownManhattan every day.
After renting a house with her husband in Bensonhurst for four years, Ms.Seltzer knew she wanted to buy a home in a similarly quiet Brooklynneighborhood.
She and her husband live in a three-bedroom postwar co-op, and it tookthem two years and countless trips to Bay Ridge, Fort Greene and CarrollGardens to find it. They paid $313,000 for their apartment back in 2004,and similar units in the neighborhood are now on the market for over$500,000.
“We like the neighborhood a lot,” Ms. Seltzer said. “We like that it issafe, close to the train and a five-minute walk to Prospect Park.”
Back in her postcollege years, Ms. Seltzer, who was born and raised inQueens, thought about living in Manhattan, but she’s happy where she isnow. “It’s nice not to have 100 people running outside your door everyday. It’s quiet and more relaxing in Brooklyn and it feels moreneighborhoody here than in Manhattan.”
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Oak & Iris - Extended Hours plus Dinner
The Oak & The Iris, on Ft. Hamilton & E. 4th is now open on Saturdays! They're also starting with a limited weekend dinner menu. We hear there are four pre-fixe dinners (beef, chicken, pasta,and fish) plus their thypical salads. Dinner hours are from 6-10pm although we're not sure if this includes Sat.
Just an FYI... There is children's play corner that and free Wi-Fi is in the works.
Just an FYI... There is children's play corner that and free Wi-Fi is in the works.
Rosesman says,
How about we stop focusing on what is not here in Kensington, for a moment.
What's everyone's opinion on:
The best Chinese place in Kensington/or maybe even best on Church?
Best Italian?
Best Thai?
Best "other ethnic" i.e. Faros, Falafel Fusion...?
Which is better Denny's or Shenanigan's?
Who loves Old Brick?
Why.... we have a lot of newbies who may not even know these exist...
How about we stop focusing on what is not here in Kensington, for a moment.
What's everyone's opinion on:
The best Chinese place in Kensington/or maybe even best on Church?
Best Italian?
Best Thai?
Best "other ethnic" i.e. Faros, Falafel Fusion...?
Which is better Denny's or Shenanigan's?
Who loves Old Brick?
Why.... we have a lot of newbies who may not even know these exist...
ANA Meeting - Sept. 25th
The fall meetings of the Albemarle Neighborhood Association will be held on Thursday, September 25; Thursday, October 23rd; and Thursday, November 20th.
All meetings are scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. Currently, all meetings will be held at the Flatbush &Shaare Torah Jewish Center, 327 E. 5th Street (corner Church Avenue) but may be subject to change. Foodtown will supply refreshments.
Richard Chin, Manager of the Kensington Post Office, will be the guest speaker. He will discuss programs that have been and will be implemented to make this branch more community friendly. The By-laws Committee met during the summer and will present a new document to the membership at the September meeting. The Communications Committee met during the summer to bring the ANA onto the "information superhighway" and will report at the September meeting.
All meetings are scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. Currently, all meetings will be held at the Flatbush &Shaare Torah Jewish Center, 327 E. 5th Street (corner Church Avenue) but may be subject to change. Foodtown will supply refreshments.
Richard Chin, Manager of the Kensington Post Office, will be the guest speaker. He will discuss programs that have been and will be implemented to make this branch more community friendly. The By-laws Committee met during the summer and will present a new document to the membership at the September meeting. The Communications Committee met during the summer to bring the ANA onto the "information superhighway" and will report at the September meeting.
Church Ave Bonanza
Kensington Merchants Association Church Avenue Bonanza
Sunday, October 5th, 10 am-6 pm
Church Avenue from McDonald Avenue to Ocean Parkway
Rides! Food! Bargains!
For more information, call 718-444-6028
Sunday, October 5th, 10 am-6 pm
Church Avenue from McDonald Avenue to Ocean Parkway
Rides! Food! Bargains!
For more information, call 718-444-6028
Traingle Below Greenwood - Sept. 27th
Triangle-Below-Greenwood (Tri-Be-Green) had its very first meeting yesterday. We are a group of concerned citizens that live in (or the vicinity of) the area just below Greenwood Cemetery. Our mission is to unite as a community and address issues together to improve our neighborhood.
As you know, many of us have voiced complaints to 311, the Dept of Sanitation, and Greiner-Maltz for years about the filthy lot at 31-35 CHurch Avenue to no avail. We are now ready to take matters into our own hands and invite you to come partake in the fun!
On Saturday, September 27th from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.we will be making a beautiful mural, "Kensington Gardens", to hang on the front of the lot and hopefully grab some attention from the media. Our ultimate goal is to get that lot cleaned up. It is time for us to take back our community and not let the owners allow the RATS and GARBAGE to continue to multiply. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!
Please bring all of your family, friends, and neighbors by and paint a flower or two. It will be a great way to get to know some neighbors, do something good for your community, and have fun!!! Refreshments and paint provided!!!!!
Where: In front of the lot at 31-35 Church Avenue (between Story Ct. and Chester Ave)
When: Saturday, September 27th, 11-3 p.m.
- Triangle Below Greenwood
Please feel free to pass this on!
As you know, many of us have voiced complaints to 311, the Dept of Sanitation, and Greiner-Maltz for years about the filthy lot at 31-35 CHurch Avenue to no avail. We are now ready to take matters into our own hands and invite you to come partake in the fun!
On Saturday, September 27th from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.we will be making a beautiful mural, "Kensington Gardens", to hang on the front of the lot and hopefully grab some attention from the media. Our ultimate goal is to get that lot cleaned up. It is time for us to take back our community and not let the owners allow the RATS and GARBAGE to continue to multiply. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!
Please bring all of your family, friends, and neighbors by and paint a flower or two. It will be a great way to get to know some neighbors, do something good for your community, and have fun!!! Refreshments and paint provided!!!!!
Where: In front of the lot at 31-35 Church Avenue (between Story Ct. and Chester Ave)
When: Saturday, September 27th, 11-3 p.m.
- Triangle Below Greenwood
Please feel free to pass this on!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Church Ave Retail
Recent Additions/ Changes:
Joe & Joe's to be a 99 cent store
Furiniture Store (that lasted approx. 2 months) to be a nail salon
Discuss
Joe & Joe's to be a 99 cent store
Furiniture Store (that lasted approx. 2 months) to be a nail salon
Discuss
VV reviews AM Thai
Going Coco-Nuts at Am-Thai Chili Basil Kitchen
Brilliant Brooklyn Thai is awash in the thick white stuff
Sometimes, the smaller the place, the bigger the menu. Such is the case at Am-Thai, where the elephantine bill of fare extends to 130 dishes in 11 categories—and that's not counting the options multiplier, by which any dish can be made with shrimp, fried tofu, chicken, beef, whole or filleted fish, duck, or even mock duck, making over 1,000 choices in all.
Brilliant Brooklyn Thai is awash in the thick white stuff
Sometimes, the smaller the place, the bigger the menu. Such is the case at Am-Thai, where the elephantine bill of fare extends to 130 dishes in 11 categories—and that's not counting the options multiplier, by which any dish can be made with shrimp, fried tofu, chicken, beef, whole or filleted fish, duck, or even mock duck, making over 1,000 choices in all.
UPCOMING EVENTS AT CYNTHIA KING DANCE STUDIO
1256 Prospect Avenue (bet. Reeve and Greenwood)
718.437-0101
New Toddler Dance and Adult Ballroom, Salsa, Swing & Tap!
Visit www.cynthiakingdance.com for a Full Schedule or call 718.437.0101 for more details.
Open House
Saturday, September 6th 10am-2pm
Followed by a Special Performance at 2pm!
COMPLIMENTARY HOODIE WHEN YOU REGISTER AT THE OPEN HOUSE!
CKDS presents an innovative curriculum that embraces traditional to emerging styles, inspiring dancers to strive for both technical excellence and meaningful artistry. Teachers are deeply in tune with children's perspectives, creating dances that capture their enthusiasm, depth and humor.
1256 Prospect Avenue (bet. Reeve and Greenwood)
718.437-0101
New Toddler Dance and Adult Ballroom, Salsa, Swing & Tap!
Visit www.cynthiakingdance.com for a Full Schedule or call 718.437.0101 for more details.
Open House
Saturday, September 6th 10am-2pm
Followed by a Special Performance at 2pm!
COMPLIMENTARY HOODIE WHEN YOU REGISTER AT THE OPEN HOUSE!
CKDS presents an innovative curriculum that embraces traditional to emerging styles, inspiring dancers to strive for both technical excellence and meaningful artistry. Teachers are deeply in tune with children's perspectives, creating dances that capture their enthusiasm, depth and humor.
Nearby Yoga Options
YogaSole to Open Yoga Studio in Early September Windsor Terrace
Brooklyn is about to get a lot more flexible with the opening of YogaSole. The Yoga studio will be opening its door early September and will be welcoming the entire community with wide-open arms! YogaSole will strive to be different and make Yoga an accessible and enjoyable experience for everyone of all age groups and expertise.
OTHER OPTIONS
1. House of Yoga with Elyce, on Ditmas
2. Yoga w/ Lauren, in lower WT (very near Kensington)
Brooklyn is about to get a lot more flexible with the opening of YogaSole. The Yoga studio will be opening its door early September and will be welcoming the entire community with wide-open arms! YogaSole will strive to be different and make Yoga an accessible and enjoyable experience for everyone of all age groups and expertise.
OTHER OPTIONS
1. House of Yoga with Elyce, on Ditmas
2. Yoga w/ Lauren, in lower WT (very near Kensington)
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Free Sing-a-long!
Michael from Playground of Sound is hosting a music class in Greenwood Playground on Sat. at 10.15.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Oak & Iris Opening?
We heard from 2 emails that the Oak & Iris will be opening this weekend or early next week depending on the inspection. We've walked by a few times and seen a fancy cappuccino machine and lots of tables as well as a vibrate paint job. We are excited to see the selection and stop in!
The Oak & Iris
corner of E4th St. & Ft. Hamilton Ave.
The Oak & Iris
corner of E4th St. & Ft. Hamilton Ave.
Playground of Sound is a mixed age music class for kids up to four years of age that creates a space for children and their caregivers to be music makers. Everyone is invited to actively participate in the music and movement, really reinforcing the fact that we all possess the capacity to make music, not just passively enjoy it. I use Rob Sayer's The Music Class curriculum and a wide variety of kid friendly instruments and props. More information about the materials can be found at http://www.themusicclass.com/
Here's the fall schedule:
Playground of Sound at Rory's Room
3003 Ft. Hamilton Parkway
Brooklyn, NY 11218
Saturdays at 9:15
September 6 - November 8
(make up classes will be offered on Nov 15 and 22 for illness, vacation or religious holidays)
Tuition is $250.00 (only $230.00 if you register before August 23) and includes ten 45 minute classes, The Giraffe Collection book and CD. Sibling discount: $30.00
Infants nine months and under may attend enrolled sibling's class for free.
To register, call 347-244-0436 or email michael.harren@gmail.com
Michael will be doing a free demo class/sing along in the Greenwood Playground on Aug 30th as well. Feel free to come along and bring friends, even if you are already enrolled in the class.
Here's the fall schedule:
Playground of Sound at Rory's Room
3003 Ft. Hamilton Parkway
Brooklyn, NY 11218
Saturdays at 9:15
September 6 - November 8
(make up classes will be offered on Nov 15 and 22 for illness, vacation or religious holidays)
Tuition is $250.00 (only $230.00 if you register before August 23) and includes ten 45 minute classes, The Giraffe Collection book and CD. Sibling discount: $30.00
Infants nine months and under may attend enrolled sibling's class for free.
To register, call 347-244-0436 or email michael.harren@gmail.com
Michael will be doing a free demo class/sing along in the Greenwood Playground on Aug 30th as well. Feel free to come along and bring friends, even if you are already enrolled in the class.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Hamilton Dog House missing 2-Headed Turtle
Missing Turtle Report: Watch for the Two Heads
A two-headed turtle was kidnapped from the Hamilton Dog House, an animal shelter and pet supply store on East Third Street in Brooklyn.
Sean is saddened by the whole situation and is willing to take the turtle back no questions asked. There is a $1000 reward being offered for the safe return of the turtle. Neighbors started putting up flyers around the neighborhood but someone has been malignant enough to rip them down just as fast.
A two-headed turtle was kidnapped from the Hamilton Dog House, an animal shelter and pet supply store on East Third Street in Brooklyn.
Sean is saddened by the whole situation and is willing to take the turtle back no questions asked. There is a $1000 reward being offered for the safe return of the turtle. Neighbors started putting up flyers around the neighborhood but someone has been malignant enough to rip them down just as fast.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Crafts w Shanise @ Greenwood Playground
This week Shanise will be doing crafts on Wednesday at noon--come make masks out of paper bags.
On Friday Shanise will be at her regular time: 11:00 to do pipe cleaner people!!
In addition, Shanise will help out Linda Z on Tuesday with her"Everyone is an Artist" program starting at 10:30. They will be working with clay.
On Friday Shanise will be at her regular time: 11:00 to do pipe cleaner people!!
In addition, Shanise will help out Linda Z on Tuesday with her"Everyone is an Artist" program starting at 10:30. They will be working with clay.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Stolen Bikes
We've heard some rumblings about locals getting their bikes stolen. We know of one on East 5th, another on Ocean Pkwy and got an email today about a bike stolen in front of Kensington Library. Anyone else have a bike stolen recently?
John Starks visits K-town Library?
FROM THE INBOX... a hoax?
Former NBA star John Starks will be at the Kensington Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library on Tuesday (August 12) at 2 p.m. He will have a Cablevision News camera crew with him and may read a story. (That has not been confirmed). Some of our Kensington neighbors might be able to attend.
Kensington Library
410 Ditmas Ave. between East 4th & East 5th St.
Brooklyn, NY 11218
t. 718-435-9431
Former NBA star John Starks will be at the Kensington Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library on Tuesday (August 12) at 2 p.m. He will have a Cablevision News camera crew with him and may read a story. (That has not been confirmed). Some of our Kensington neighbors might be able to attend.
Kensington Library
410 Ditmas Ave. between East 4th & East 5th St.
Brooklyn, NY 11218
t. 718-435-9431
Monday, August 11, 2008
R.I.P Joe & Joe's
We got an email that Joe & Joe's Pizzeria is officially closed.... anyone know if this is true or the guys are just taking a vacation?
Also we've noticed the Furniture store on Church Ave b/w East 5th and 4th closed awhile back. There is construction and work permits for something new. Please tell us if you know what's coming?
Any other retail news out there?
Also we've noticed the Furniture store on Church Ave b/w East 5th and 4th closed awhile back. There is construction and work permits for something new. Please tell us if you know what's coming?
Any other retail news out there?
This Week at Greenwood Playground
Tuesday: Studio in the Park with Sam Campbell
10-2:00
Limited to 10 kids (with caregiver) per session.
This week, making "magic gardens" in clay
Please sign up in the playground
Crafts with Shanise
Wednesday 11:00
Making Popsicle stick bunnies
Thursday 11:00
Water balloon toss competition
Friday 11:00
Making Beaded Bracelets
Sunday 10:30: Sing-a-long with Gina Samardge
Organized by Friends of Greenwood Playground (who incidentally need volunteers for next year or there will no longer be kids programming!)
10-2:00
Limited to 10 kids (with caregiver) per session.
This week, making "magic gardens" in clay
Please sign up in the playground
Crafts with Shanise
Wednesday 11:00
Making Popsicle stick bunnies
Thursday 11:00
Water balloon toss competition
Friday 11:00
Making Beaded Bracelets
Sunday 10:30: Sing-a-long with Gina Samardge
Organized by Friends of Greenwood Playground (who incidentally need volunteers for next year or there will no longer be kids programming!)
Friday, August 8, 2008
Where the Locals at?
Local Band Pistolera has a new album and NYC show:
PISTOLERA'S NEW ALBUM "EN ESTE CAMINO" OUT NOW!
CD RELEASE SHOW SATURDAY, AUGUST 9
at Central Park Summerstage, 3pm, Free
with Kinky and others
The album is already #8 on the CMJ Latin Radio Charts and received the following review from Billboard Magazine!
"Pistolera frontwoman Sandra Velasquez has not given herself an easy assignment: write searching, often politically conscious lyrics in Spanish with traditional Latin music instrumentation.....the results are often glorious and galvanizing ("Guerra," a translation of Bob Marley's "War," couldn't be more relevant). The musicianship is superb here, and it's a pleasure to listen to a whole museum of brass, bongos, congas, caxixi, maracas and pandereta incorporated beautifully into a sound that doesn't fit neatly into any genre." - Billboard
PS we are HUGE fans so if you haven't seen the band go check it out!
PISTOLERA'S NEW ALBUM "EN ESTE CAMINO" OUT NOW!
CD RELEASE SHOW SATURDAY, AUGUST 9
at Central Park Summerstage, 3pm, Free
with Kinky and others
The album is already #8 on the CMJ Latin Radio Charts and received the following review from Billboard Magazine!
"Pistolera frontwoman Sandra Velasquez has not given herself an easy assignment: write searching, often politically conscious lyrics in Spanish with traditional Latin music instrumentation.....the results are often glorious and galvanizing ("Guerra," a translation of Bob Marley's "War," couldn't be more relevant). The musicianship is superb here, and it's a pleasure to listen to a whole museum of brass, bongos, congas, caxixi, maracas and pandereta incorporated beautifully into a sound that doesn't fit neatly into any genre." - Billboard
PS we are HUGE fans so if you haven't seen the band go check it out!
Maki Sushi Tasting
Angie, owner of Thai Tony's, has invited everyone to come in and try the new place MAKI SUSHI! Angie reminds us that not all Sushi is raw so there's something for everyone!!!
Location:
Maki Sushi on Ft. Hamilton (between E 2nd & E 3rd)
Saturday August 9th from 3-6pm
Location:
Maki Sushi on Ft. Hamilton (between E 2nd & E 3rd)
Saturday August 9th from 3-6pm
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Graffiti Surveying
Jacob Stevens from Council member Bill de Blasio's office is coordinating Graffiti Surveying Tuesday, August 12th at 5:30pm. Any volunteers, please meet at the corner of Church Avenue and Coney Island in front of Rocky's Pizza.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Church Ave Accident
We heard the police activity on Church Ave is because a man got hit crossing the street. We hope the man is ok.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Falafal Fusion Gets Juicer
From the inbox:
They juiced the carrots on the spot while I was waiting for my falafel. At 5.00 for a large that price is about the average. The counter person said they would juice pretty much whatever a person wanted as long as they had it in stock or could get it from one of the local markets.
They juiced the carrots on the spot while I was waiting for my falafel. At 5.00 for a large that price is about the average. The counter person said they would juice pretty much whatever a person wanted as long as they had it in stock or could get it from one of the local markets.
23 Caton Place - Any Future?!
Brooklyn developer to face bank in condo default case
Brooklyn developer Moshe Feller is scheduled to face off in court next month against Corus Bank, which filed suit against his Karl Fischer-designed Kensington condominium development about two months after contractors walked off the job. Corus filed suit in June against Caton on the Park, a 107-unit condo building that has sat idle since April 4, when the New York City Department of Buildings issued a stop work order.
As many of you know this development has caused a huge amount of tension in the area. The condos border on the stables and have been built right againest a building on Ocean Pkwy. At this point if the building is not complete what will happen? Here's a commentor from the article: As someone who lives across the street from this shell of a building, I can say this is a pathetic and sad situation. And it's the Kensington community that ends up suffering -- with a block full of debris, a building that looks like a vastly oversized pigeon coop, reduced parking on the block, security concerns and little hope of anything changing anytime soon.
Brooklyn developer Moshe Feller is scheduled to face off in court next month against Corus Bank, which filed suit against his Karl Fischer-designed Kensington condominium development about two months after contractors walked off the job. Corus filed suit in June against Caton on the Park, a 107-unit condo building that has sat idle since April 4, when the New York City Department of Buildings issued a stop work order.
As many of you know this development has caused a huge amount of tension in the area. The condos border on the stables and have been built right againest a building on Ocean Pkwy. At this point if the building is not complete what will happen? Here's a commentor from the article: As someone who lives across the street from this shell of a building, I can say this is a pathetic and sad situation. And it's the Kensington community that ends up suffering -- with a block full of debris, a building that looks like a vastly oversized pigeon coop, reduced parking on the block, security concerns and little hope of anything changing anytime soon.
Oak & Iris Cafe - Coming Soon
A bunch of you emailed us to post the note on the door of the old Jimmy's, soon to be the new "The Oak and The Iris Cafe."
Dear Bypassers and neighbors-
Soon (August) we will be opening a beautiful healthy cafe with full coffee/tea/juice bar, breakfast and brunch; sit down for delicious meal and your essential groceries all in one. The Oak and The Iris Cafe, here to serve our community.
Dear Bypassers and neighbors-
Soon (August) we will be opening a beautiful healthy cafe with full coffee/tea/juice bar, breakfast and brunch; sit down for delicious meal and your essential groceries all in one. The Oak and The Iris Cafe, here to serve our community.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Greenwood Playground Events
Friends of Greenwood Playground Events:
Hip Hop class next week FREE at Greenwood Playground. Cynthia King will lead a hip hop class on Weds, Aug 6 at 11am for 4-8 yrs old.
Studio in the School will continue on Tuesdays:
Next Tuesday at 10:00 will be Navajo Sand Painting with Sam Campbell. This class is limited to 10 kids because there is no assistant. (Thanks for understanding although they do need volunteers!)
And Crafts!
Shanise, the Playground associate, is doing crafts on Wednesday and Fridays at 11:00. This Wednesday is hat making and next Wednesday is craft stick bunnies. Come by and meet Shanise.
The Friends of Greenwood Playground are a huge contributor to our neighborhood and they are constantly looking for volunteers and contributors. Connect with a member and become a friend!
Hip Hop class next week FREE at Greenwood Playground. Cynthia King will lead a hip hop class on Weds, Aug 6 at 11am for 4-8 yrs old.
Studio in the School will continue on Tuesdays:
Next Tuesday at 10:00 will be Navajo Sand Painting with Sam Campbell. This class is limited to 10 kids because there is no assistant. (Thanks for understanding although they do need volunteers!)
And Crafts!
Shanise, the Playground associate, is doing crafts on Wednesday and Fridays at 11:00. This Wednesday is hat making and next Wednesday is craft stick bunnies. Come by and meet Shanise.
The Friends of Greenwood Playground are a huge contributor to our neighborhood and they are constantly looking for volunteers and contributors. Connect with a member and become a friend!
National Night Out at Greenwood Playground
Greenwood Playground will once again be the location of the 72nd Precinct's National Night Out event.
When: Tuesday, August 5, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Where: Greenwood Playground and Ballfields
What: Food (hot dogs!), Games (inflatable ride for kids!), Representatives from the 72nd Precinct (with information on crime and drug prevention), Windsor Terrace Alliance & Friends of Greenwood Playground (find out ways you can volunteer in our neighborhood)
Come and join local friends and neighbors for a fun evening and learn about crime and drug prevention in our neighborhood.
For more information about NNO go to: http://www.nationaltownwatch.org/nno/about.html.
When: Tuesday, August 5, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Where: Greenwood Playground and Ballfields
What: Food (hot dogs!), Games (inflatable ride for kids!), Representatives from the 72nd Precinct (with information on crime and drug prevention), Windsor Terrace Alliance & Friends of Greenwood Playground (find out ways you can volunteer in our neighborhood)
Come and join local friends and neighbors for a fun evening and learn about crime and drug prevention in our neighborhood.
For more information about NNO go to: http://www.nationaltownwatch.org/nno/about.html.
Good 'Ole Days
From a Year in the Park a great story of a couple bars on Coney Island near Caton that had a fire on July 28, 1929. The great part isn't the fire but reading the article its clear there were a couple clubs in the nabe! Where are they now!?
Flaming gin joints and stampeding steeds
"Three night clubs in Coney Island Avenue, between Hermit [sic] Place and Caton Avenue, Brooklyn, were destroyed by fire soon after closing time yesterday morning, with a property loss of about $150,000. From the riding academy next door 135 horses stampeded from the fire into the Parade Grounds of Prospect Park across the street, where they galloped for four hours or more.
"The fire, of unknown, but, officials said, possibly incendiary, origin, apparently started about 4 A.M. in the Cat's Meow resort at 338 Coney Island Avenue. This place had been under padlock for several months as the result of a raid by Prohibition agents. The last of the patrons of the Caton Inn and the Barking Dog, adjoining the Cat's Meow, the other two places burned, had left an hour before. All were one-story frame structures.
Flaming gin joints and stampeding steeds
"Three night clubs in Coney Island Avenue, between Hermit [sic] Place and Caton Avenue, Brooklyn, were destroyed by fire soon after closing time yesterday morning, with a property loss of about $150,000. From the riding academy next door 135 horses stampeded from the fire into the Parade Grounds of Prospect Park across the street, where they galloped for four hours or more.
"The fire, of unknown, but, officials said, possibly incendiary, origin, apparently started about 4 A.M. in the Cat's Meow resort at 338 Coney Island Avenue. This place had been under padlock for several months as the result of a raid by Prohibition agents. The last of the patrons of the Caton Inn and the Barking Dog, adjoining the Cat's Meow, the other two places burned, had left an hour before. All were one-story frame structures.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Recent Car Vandalism
FROM KAF:
On Sunday morning, July 27, 2008 between 6:30 – 6:50 am, atleast 12 automobiles had their tires slashed. Location: Cortelyou Road, between Ocean Parkway and East 7th Street and East 7th Street between Cortelyou Road and Avenue C.
The Kensington Action Force is appealing to anyone who observed a group of 3 to 4 individuals, which included a woman/girl to send information to KAF at mailto:KAF.Kaforce@yahoo.com
Officers fromthe NYPD 66th precinct have taken the report and KAF will be monitoring the situation. It appears that auto vandalism has spiked recently in the Kensington community, despite NYPD parking equipment on local streets.
FROM NEIGHBOR:
theres been about 20-30 car break ins usually 2-4 a night that i have seen personally around ocean parkway and cortelyou, along cortelyou, and on e7th by the side of the church and between the school, usually hit around midnight to 5am, since i walk my dog regularly at 6am. the best police have done is park unmanned golf cart decoys on the block. this regular occurance is an outrage since its obvious to me that they are targeting large suv's with out of state plates, always around the same time and always parked in spots that are not exactly in front of a residence or apt bldg.
ANYONE ELSE NOTICE ANYTHING?
On Sunday morning, July 27, 2008 between 6:30 – 6:50 am, atleast 12 automobiles had their tires slashed. Location: Cortelyou Road, between Ocean Parkway and East 7th Street and East 7th Street between Cortelyou Road and Avenue C.
The Kensington Action Force is appealing to anyone who observed a group of 3 to 4 individuals, which included a woman/girl to send information to KAF at mailto:KAF.Kaforce@yahoo.com
Officers fromthe NYPD 66th precinct have taken the report and KAF will be monitoring the situation. It appears that auto vandalism has spiked recently in the Kensington community, despite NYPD parking equipment on local streets.
FROM NEIGHBOR:
theres been about 20-30 car break ins usually 2-4 a night that i have seen personally around ocean parkway and cortelyou, along cortelyou, and on e7th by the side of the church and between the school, usually hit around midnight to 5am, since i walk my dog regularly at 6am. the best police have done is park unmanned golf cart decoys on the block. this regular occurance is an outrage since its obvious to me that they are targeting large suv's with out of state plates, always around the same time and always parked in spots that are not exactly in front of a residence or apt bldg.
ANYONE ELSE NOTICE ANYTHING?
Brooklyn Kid's Museum at Greenwood Playground
From The Friends of Greenwood Playground:
This Monday, July 28th, the Brooklyn Children's Museum will again bring their Sunshine Storytime to Greenwood Playground from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. We apologize that last week there was a mix up with the timing and they didn't get started until 11:00 a.m. But this week they will start promptly at 10:00 a.m. Museum staff will read stories, bring a live animal for your children to meet and engage the kids in a crafts project that they can take home, all for free! The event is most appropriate for ages 18 months to five years. Please join us!
This Monday, July 28th, the Brooklyn Children's Museum will again bring their Sunshine Storytime to Greenwood Playground from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. We apologize that last week there was a mix up with the timing and they didn't get started until 11:00 a.m. But this week they will start promptly at 10:00 a.m. Museum staff will read stories, bring a live animal for your children to meet and engage the kids in a crafts project that they can take home, all for free! The event is most appropriate for ages 18 months to five years. Please join us!
More Praise for Foodtown upgrades
From the In-box:
Suddenly (over the course of the last week), they have begun selling a wide range of loafs and rolls from Zabar's, as well as a number of smaller local bakers. The Zabar's bread is supposed to be delivered fresh every day. There's good Jewish rye, brioche, Tuscan loafs, as well as a number of vegan and organic breads.
Suddenly (over the course of the last week), they have begun selling a wide range of loafs and rolls from Zabar's, as well as a number of smaller local bakers. The Zabar's bread is supposed to be delivered fresh every day. There's good Jewish rye, brioche, Tuscan loafs, as well as a number of vegan and organic breads.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Filming on Dahill
We got a note that there will be filiming (read: no parking) on Dahill and 12th Ave on Tues. Our tipster looked it up and it seems the filming will be for a Bank of America commercial. Anyone else find that funny?
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Construction at Old Jimmy's
We heard from a neighbor that although we've missed it that construction is coming along at old Jimmy's Deli. The rumour is it'll be a coffee shop but we don't want to get our hopes up. Anyone got any inside scoop?
Also the old M&A space on Ft. Hamilton and E4th is for rent. The space is HUGE! Another local spot for rent is the Furniture store that lasted all of 4 months on Church Ave b/w East 4th and 5th. We don't have any info at the moment on either space but there is a sign w a number at the M&A. What would be useful in these spots?
Also the old M&A space on Ft. Hamilton and E4th is for rent. The space is HUGE! Another local spot for rent is the Furniture store that lasted all of 4 months on Church Ave b/w East 4th and 5th. We don't have any info at the moment on either space but there is a sign w a number at the M&A. What would be useful in these spots?
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Maki Sushi is OPEN
Maki Sushi has a menu available on the door.
$5-10 rolls and an $8 bento lunch deal
Also a "chunky monkey" dessert roll!
UPDATE! Maki Sushi is OPEN for business
3011 Ft. Hamilton Pkwy
718 871 2540
(Min. $10 for free delivery)
$5-10 rolls and an $8 bento lunch deal
Also a "chunky monkey" dessert roll!
UPDATE! Maki Sushi is OPEN for business
3011 Ft. Hamilton Pkwy
718 871 2540
(Min. $10 for free delivery)
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Kensington Stories
Lifelong Resident Ron Lopez posted a very poignent and funny Top Ten List on his blog Kensington Stories.
Top Ten Reasons why Kensington is better than Park Slope
10 Instead of the Pavilion, we have the Kensington Post office, and the shows are free every day.
9 If you loose your job as a television comedy writer, you can start your own construction business by simply walking to McDonald Avenue at eight in the morning.
8 You’ll always be able to walk off your meal from the nearest nice restaurant, because it’s not near at all.
7 When you shop lift at Golden Farms, you can immediately gain celebrity status by having your Polaroid taped to the cash register.
6 Our calves are smaller because we don’t have to walkup and down hills all day.
5 Dressing up as an Amish Farmer and re-selling vegetables bought at Golden Farms is always a “hoot” at the green market every Saturday morning in Park Slope.
4 We know that “ugly” train yard on Atlantic Avenue is actually ugly,and are not fooled by the “Develop don’t destroy Brooklyn” people.
3 Cousin Brucie and Albert Shanker can kick any of your celebrities asses.
2 We also use our Yoga mats to lie on when we steal the lithium batteries out of your hybrid cars.
1 Electro shock therapy is alive and well in Kensington and involves licking a live slot car track at the Buzz-a-rama for only twelve dollars an hour.
Top Ten Reasons why Kensington is better than Park Slope
10 Instead of the Pavilion, we have the Kensington Post office, and the shows are free every day.
9 If you loose your job as a television comedy writer, you can start your own construction business by simply walking to McDonald Avenue at eight in the morning.
8 You’ll always be able to walk off your meal from the nearest nice restaurant, because it’s not near at all.
7 When you shop lift at Golden Farms, you can immediately gain celebrity status by having your Polaroid taped to the cash register.
6 Our calves are smaller because we don’t have to walkup and down hills all day.
5 Dressing up as an Amish Farmer and re-selling vegetables bought at Golden Farms is always a “hoot” at the green market every Saturday morning in Park Slope.
4 We know that “ugly” train yard on Atlantic Avenue is actually ugly,and are not fooled by the “Develop don’t destroy Brooklyn” people.
3 Cousin Brucie and Albert Shanker can kick any of your celebrities asses.
2 We also use our Yoga mats to lie on when we steal the lithium batteries out of your hybrid cars.
1 Electro shock therapy is alive and well in Kensington and involves licking a live slot car track at the Buzz-a-rama for only twelve dollars an hour.
Foodtown Reno
Foodtown now has an olive station, a fish counter including sushi, a wider array of organic and veggie products as well as a coffee station with beans you can grind. They have also added to the outside some benches and flower pots lining the parking lot. Check it out!
Local Obama Event
I just wanted to let you know that my wife and I are having an Obama event at our apartment on Sunday evening at 6 PM, as part of the campaign's push to get rank-and-file Democratic voters' input for the party's platform for the national convention. We'd like to invite anyone and everyone from the community to attend, and take part in the discussion.
Our apartment is at 280 Ocean Parkway, #1C, between Beverley and Avenue C. Our apartment is directly accessible from the street- come to the left side of the building, with the small brick path leading up to a white door, and that's us. We're still relatively new to the area, and would love to meet other people in the neighborhood.
Our apartment is at 280 Ocean Parkway, #1C, between Beverley and Avenue C. Our apartment is directly accessible from the street- come to the left side of the building, with the small brick path leading up to a white door, and that's us. We're still relatively new to the area, and would love to meet other people in the neighborhood.
Comment of the Day
From Victoria:
I don't understand the anger at wanting amenities here. So having to go to other neighborhoods for certain foods and items rather than being able to support local business equals loving Kensington more? And thinking it would be nice to have a place to go sit with a friend and have a cup of coffee makes you a snob who settled? This attitude makes absolutely no sense. We live here because we really like it here--there were many neighborhoods that we looked at and could have moved to. We love the ethnic shops and the diversity of the community. Also thinking some more options within the neighborhood would be nice does not lessen that in any way. Frankly, if there is any elitism, it's from the attitude of "I love Kensington more because I don't want anything to change--nothing new or different moving in." Do you also hate the new falafel shop and the new toy store on Church? Do you hate that Foodtown is now renovated? Where do you draw the line?
I don't understand the anger at wanting amenities here. So having to go to other neighborhoods for certain foods and items rather than being able to support local business equals loving Kensington more? And thinking it would be nice to have a place to go sit with a friend and have a cup of coffee makes you a snob who settled? This attitude makes absolutely no sense. We live here because we really like it here--there were many neighborhoods that we looked at and could have moved to. We love the ethnic shops and the diversity of the community. Also thinking some more options within the neighborhood would be nice does not lessen that in any way. Frankly, if there is any elitism, it's from the attitude of "I love Kensington more because I don't want anything to change--nothing new or different moving in." Do you also hate the new falafel shop and the new toy store on Church? Do you hate that Foodtown is now renovated? Where do you draw the line?
Friday, July 18, 2008
Graffiti Cataloging
Jacob Stevens from Council member Bill de Blasio's office will be coordinating Graffiti Cataloging THIS Friday, July 18th at 5:00. Any volunteers, please meet at the district office of Council-member de Blasio, at 2907 Fort Hamilton Parkway.
We've gotten a few emails about Joe on Church Ave asking nieghbors about turning his deli into a coffee shop. Go give Joe your 2 cents. Here's one email:
Joseph who currently owns a deli on Church Ave next to the giant pharmacy on Ocean Parkway is telling anybody who will listen that he is planning on turning the deli into a coffee shop with fresh juice, outdoor seating and"the free internets".
Joseph who currently owns a deli on Church Ave next to the giant pharmacy on Ocean Parkway is telling anybody who will listen that he is planning on turning the deli into a coffee shop with fresh juice, outdoor seating and"the free internets".
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Sunshine Storytime - Greenwood Playground
The Brooklyn Children's Museum's 'On the Go' Program will be at Greenwood Playground the next two Mondays (7/21 and 7/28) from 10:00 a.m.m to 11:00 a.m. with free programming entitled Sunshine Storytime. Best for kids ages 18 months to 5 years old, the Museum will bring a live animal for the kids to meet, help the kids create their own special craft and read them a story. Come out and enjoy this fun event!
Japanese for Ft. Ham! SOON!
We got word a Japanese restaurant, including sushi, is set to open NEXT WEEK in the space previously occupied by Estelle's.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Local Yoga!
Summer Yoga in Prospect Park
Enhance your health and enlighten your mind. YogaSole joyfully combines the classical styles of Iyengar, Ashtanga, and Vinyasa flow to develop a safe, compassionate and playful yoga sequence. Beginners most welcome!
Please join us Wednesday Evening at 7:00pm and Saturday Morning at 8:30 am
Beginning July 9th and continuing through August 27th, 2008
Come to the PERISTYLE the Grecian Shelter Prospect Park (just across from the Prospect Park Tennis Center) Enter Parkside Ave & Parade Place or Enter Park Circle bear right Head North on East Drive (aprox 300 yards)
Please bring a Yoga Mat
Classes: $10 suggested donation gratefully accepted
Also Please join us for Evening Yoga at Caton Towers 135 Ocean Parkway Apt 15T Between Church & Caton
Monday & Thursday Evening at 7:00pm Beginning July 7th (Summer Schedule)
Please bring a Yoga Mat Beginners most welcome!
Classes: $10 suggested donation gratefully accepted
For More Information please contact
Evalena V. Leedy
NYC YogaWorks certified instructor
Visit our Website: www.yogasole.com
email: evalena@yogasole.com
tel: 718 541-1382
Enhance your health and enlighten your mind. YogaSole joyfully combines the classical styles of Iyengar, Ashtanga, and Vinyasa flow to develop a safe, compassionate and playful yoga sequence. Beginners most welcome!
Please join us Wednesday Evening at 7:00pm and Saturday Morning at 8:30 am
Beginning July 9th and continuing through August 27th, 2008
Come to the PERISTYLE the Grecian Shelter Prospect Park (just across from the Prospect Park Tennis Center) Enter Parkside Ave & Parade Place or Enter Park Circle bear right Head North on East Drive (aprox 300 yards)
Please bring a Yoga Mat
Classes: $10 suggested donation gratefully accepted
Also Please join us for Evening Yoga at Caton Towers 135 Ocean Parkway Apt 15T Between Church & Caton
Monday & Thursday Evening at 7:00pm Beginning July 7th (Summer Schedule)
Please bring a Yoga Mat Beginners most welcome!
Classes: $10 suggested donation gratefully accepted
For More Information please contact
Evalena V. Leedy
NYC YogaWorks certified instructor
Visit our Website: www.yogasole.com
email: evalena@yogasole.com
tel: 718 541-1382
Studio in Greenwood Playground
Studio in the Park continues at Greenwood Playground
Tuesdays 10-2:00.
Tomorrow: clay exploration
10 - 10:45 ages 4 - 6
11 - 11:45 ages 4 - 8
12:30 - 2:00 ages 8 - 12
(Tweens encouraged but the later session is open to all ages)
We must limit the classes to 15 children per class so please just sign up for the next session if the one you want is full. \
Tuesdays 10-2:00.
Tomorrow: clay exploration
10 - 10:45 ages 4 - 6
11 - 11:45 ages 4 - 8
12:30 - 2:00 ages 8 - 12
(Tweens encouraged but the later session is open to all ages)
We must limit the classes to 15 children per class so please just sign up for the next session if the one you want is full. \
Thursday, July 10, 2008
23 Caton
Local blog i2 does a good job of showing the current conditions at 23 Caton.
Abandoned development of 23 Caton Place
Also noteworthy on i2 are the posts about garbage along the OP service road.
Abandoned development of 23 Caton Place
Also noteworthy on i2 are the posts about garbage along the OP service road.
Kensington's Train World - Top 15!
Page 54 of the July 2008 issue of New York Family magazine mentions the Kensington store Train World in it’s list of “Top 15 Things Every City Child Should Do Before Turning 15,” calling the store a “model train heaven.”
Monday, July 7, 2008
Kensington (DP?) Artist Meet Up
From the In-Box:
local artists meet Tues. July 8 at 7 p.m. @ Connecticut Muffin on Cortelyou
Hi all you creative souls out there!
Local artists who would like to shmooze/network with neighbors who know what they're talking about, come on down !We're abandoning first Monday this month in case people are still wending their way back from holiday frolicing.
Let's move East for a change and meet at Connecticut Muffin (1106Cortelyou)---- lots of room, very tasty looking stuff and an interesting lite menu. Hope to gather in some Beverly Square, PPS and Ditmas Park folks by meeting in their backyard.
Come if you can, some folks may arrive later, very informal, no demerits for late arrivals or here-and-there attendance .Bring samples, current work, small portfolios, suitable for smalltables.
Feel free to bring a topic. I'm wondering if we could borrow someone's block and have a September art & craft sale----small works, some of us do notecards, whatever. I picked up artist's business cards when I saw them at yard sales. Why not all art ?
local artists meet Tues. July 8 at 7 p.m. @ Connecticut Muffin on Cortelyou
Hi all you creative souls out there!
Local artists who would like to shmooze/network with neighbors who know what they're talking about, come on down !We're abandoning first Monday this month in case people are still wending their way back from holiday frolicing.
Let's move East for a change and meet at Connecticut Muffin (1106Cortelyou)---- lots of room, very tasty looking stuff and an interesting lite menu. Hope to gather in some Beverly Square, PPS and Ditmas Park folks by meeting in their backyard.
Come if you can, some folks may arrive later, very informal, no demerits for late arrivals or here-and-there attendance .Bring samples, current work, small portfolios, suitable for smalltables.
Feel free to bring a topic. I'm wondering if we could borrow someone's block and have a September art & craft sale----small works, some of us do notecards, whatever. I picked up artist's business cards when I saw them at yard sales. Why not all art ?
TOMORROW at Greenwood Playground
Studio in the Park
Date: Tuesday July 8, 2008
Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Every week until Tuesday August 5, 2008.
Date: Tuesday July 8, 2008
Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Every week until Tuesday August 5, 2008.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Studio in Greenwood Playground
Tomorrow join art educator Michelle Hinebrook and her assistant (local LaGuardia High School student Sam Campbell) for the first Studio in the Park. This is art programming for kids which will focus on using art to teach kids about sustainability and the environment. (And also just have fun with cool art supplies and new materials). The first session, starting at 10:00 a.m. will be for 4-6 year olds, the later session will be for older kids. There will be a limit of 20 kids per session so we will have some kind of sign up sheet.
Michelle Hinebrook is an art instructor through Studio in a School with over 7 years of art education experience. She has an MFA from Cranbrook and is currently an actively exhibiting artist in New York City and Denmark.
This is a free program sponsored by Friends of Greenwood Playground from a generous grant from Partnership for Parks. We don't have it all ironed out yet and have had some bumps with supplies arriving on time, so be patient as we figure it out as this promises to be a great program for the next 5 weeks for neighorhood kids.
Michelle Hinebrook is an art instructor through Studio in a School with over 7 years of art education experience. She has an MFA from Cranbrook and is currently an actively exhibiting artist in New York City and Denmark.
This is a free program sponsored by Friends of Greenwood Playground from a generous grant from Partnership for Parks. We don't have it all ironed out yet and have had some bumps with supplies arriving on time, so be patient as we figure it out as this promises to be a great program for the next 5 weeks for neighorhood kids.
Monday, June 23, 2008
NY Times Features Local School
And the Band Honked On
A professional musician confronts the real world at a Brooklyn junior high. (Our local Ditmas, IS 62)
Be sure to check out the multi-media photos and audio here:
http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/arts/20080621_BAND_FEATURE/index.html
A professional musician confronts the real world at a Brooklyn junior high. (Our local Ditmas, IS 62)
Be sure to check out the multi-media photos and audio here:
http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/arts/20080621_BAND_FEATURE/index.html
Pet Adoptions
From our friends at Hamilton Dog House:This is Annie. She is a Boston Terrier who was hit by a car and dragged. She was nursed back to health at the shelter. She is adorable and loving.
Color Conundrum at Greenwood Playground
TUESDAY JUNE 24th
ages 3-6
10:00 a.m
Color Conundrum Prospect Park Zoo Puppet Show
Starting JULY 1 on Tuesdays - Studio in the Park
Join Studio-in-a-school art educator, Michelle Hinebrook for art programming at Greenwood Playground. Children will learn about the environment and sustainability using paint, clay, collage and otherart materials. First session begins at 10:00 and will be geared for4-6 year olds. The afternoon session will be appropriate for tweens and younger. Sign up at the park will be necessary because each class will be limited to 20 kids. Note: this is NOT a drop-off class.
ages 3-6
10:00 a.m
Color Conundrum Prospect Park Zoo Puppet Show
Starting JULY 1 on Tuesdays - Studio in the Park
Join Studio-in-a-school art educator, Michelle Hinebrook for art programming at Greenwood Playground. Children will learn about the environment and sustainability using paint, clay, collage and otherart materials. First session begins at 10:00 and will be geared for4-6 year olds. The afternoon session will be appropriate for tweens and younger. Sign up at the park will be necessary because each class will be limited to 20 kids. Note: this is NOT a drop-off class.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Hamilton Dog House Summer Grand Opening!
THE HAMILTON DOG HOUSE
155 E. 3rd St., Brooklyn, New York
Between Caton and Ft. Hamilton
718-436-PETS
JOIN HDH ON JULY 12th FOR THEIR GRAND OPENING EVENT!
Food, Games, Prizes & Raffles from Noon til 5pm!
Free treats for our 4-legged friends!
Hot dogs and hamburgers available for a $2 donation, the proceeds will benefit the Sean Casey Animal Rescue.
155 E. 3rd St., Brooklyn, New York
Between Caton and Ft. Hamilton
718-436-PETS
JOIN HDH ON JULY 12th FOR THEIR GRAND OPENING EVENT!
Food, Games, Prizes & Raffles from Noon til 5pm!
Free treats for our 4-legged friends!
Hot dogs and hamburgers available for a $2 donation, the proceeds will benefit the Sean Casey Animal Rescue.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
ANA 6/12 Meeting Minutes/ Notes
Albemarle Neighborhood Association Meeting - June 12, 2008
MTA elevator installation: Installation of the MTA elevator on McDonald Avenue near Church Avenue is expected to be completed by the end of June.
Foodtown renovation: The renovation of Foodtown is expected to be completed by the end of July.
Kensington Post Office aggravation: The Kensington Post Office (KPO) has a new manager and a new delivery supervisor. According to the KPO, a lobby director is required to be on duty in the lobby from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to direct people to the post office’s various resources, such as the stamp machine and the passport line, and answer customers’ questions about which forms to use and how to fill them out. If you are in the KPO between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and do not see a lobby director on duty, report it to 1-800-ASK-USPS.
At last month’s ANA meeting, an ANA member volunteered to attend the May 21st meeting of the Brooklyn Post Office’s Community Advisory Council (CAC) on behalf of ANA. The CAC, chaired by the Brooklyn Postmaster, was founded a year ago as a result of borough-wide complaints about Brooklyn’s post offices. Its goal is to be accountable to the public. The ANA member’s report included this information:
Report complaints, such as misdelivered mail, to 1-800-ASK-USPS.
The name and phone number of the KPO manager are supposed to be on view inside of the post office.
Based on the amount of credit card usage by customers, the KPO is not eligible for a self-service kiosk. However, an attendee at the ANA meeting stated that credit card usage is low because the credit card machines are broken.
KPO is eligible for scales for use by customers, foreign language posters, and passport fairs.
A Contract Postal Unit (CPU) will open in Kensington (a CPU is a privately-run kiosk that is inside of an existing retail store and has a person in attendance) if a retailer can be found who has an appropriate space and is willing to house the CPU.
The Brooklyn Post Office participates in the USPS’s Mystery Shopper project (http://www.usps.com/strategicplanning/stp2007/improve_002.htm).
The manager of the KPO has been invited to participate at the next ANA meeting. Assemblymember Jim Brennan pointed out that zip code 11215 (Park Slope) has three post offices, but Kensington only has one. He said that Congress would have to designate money for an additional post office for us and suggested that Yvette Clarke, our representative in the House of Representatives, be invited to the September meeting.
Traffic congestion: An ANA member reported on a Department of Transportation (DOT) meeting about street traffic congestion on Church Avenue between McDonald Avenue and Utica Avenue caused by double parked cars, cars making illegal U-turns, bicyclists, and the lack of ten-second pedestrian phasing (which turns the WALK light on ten seconds before the green light goes on) and on sidewalk congestion caused by merchandise placed in front of stores. On Thursday, June 19th, DOT will conduct a walk-through of Church Avenue to learn about specific problems. We are invited to meet up with the DOT representatives at Church Avenue and Coney Island Avenue at 5:15, walk with them to McDonald Avenue, and point out the problems as we see them.
Express bus service elimination: The MTA’s Vice President of Planning and Operations unsuccessfully attempted to justify to the large number of aggrieved commuters the elimination of the BM1 and BM2 express bus stops in Kensington.
The major issues mentioned by the Kensington commuters are: 1) During the day, there is often a forty-five minute wait between buses because the staggering is “off.” This is detrimental to the community because the bus functions as a viable transportation alternative for the elderly and the sick. 2) Kensington commuters often see BM1 and BM2 buses that are only half-filled drive past them as they wait for the very full BM3 and BM4 buses to stop for them. As a result, some Kensingtonians have to stand up on these BM3 and BM4 buses (the MTA VP told us that that does not happen). It is clear that resources need to be allocated better.
The VP told us that Command Bus left a mess that the MTA has been cleaning up. We in Kensington are defined as part of that mess: When an express bus stops to pick us up, we make the commute longer for passengers who boarded at the beginning of the route. He promised that larger buses will be assigned to the BM3 and BM4 lines. He said that if those get overcrowded, the MTA will think about restoring some of our BM1 and BM2 service. If the MTA does change the schedule, it will not go into effect until September.
In response to requests for Sunday service, the VP told us that we have no Sunday service because we do not use the bus much on Saturdays. If you have problems with the bus and would like to complain about them, call:
James J. Harding, Jr.
Vice President, Intergovernmental and Community Relations
128-15 28th Avenue
Flushing, NY 11354
Work: 718.445.3100 x 3420
Cell: 347.203.8382
Fax: 718.961.2660
Jim.harding@mtabusco.com
To complain about the F train, call 646.252.5800 and ask for:
Lois Tendler
Director, MTA NYC Transit Government and Community Relations2 Broadway, D 17.140
New York, NY 10004
718-694-5127
ltendle@nyct.com
The VP will report back to the ANA president in two to three weeks.
ANA committees and changes: Over the summer, the ANA will establish a committee to draft changes to the by-laws in order to address boundary issues for members, membership and membership dues, and streamline the officer core. Once complete and in effect, the ANA will nominate officers for the new positions and hold elections.
Next meeting: The next full meeting of ANA will be in September, date to be announced.
MTA elevator installation: Installation of the MTA elevator on McDonald Avenue near Church Avenue is expected to be completed by the end of June.
Foodtown renovation: The renovation of Foodtown is expected to be completed by the end of July.
Kensington Post Office aggravation: The Kensington Post Office (KPO) has a new manager and a new delivery supervisor. According to the KPO, a lobby director is required to be on duty in the lobby from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to direct people to the post office’s various resources, such as the stamp machine and the passport line, and answer customers’ questions about which forms to use and how to fill them out. If you are in the KPO between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and do not see a lobby director on duty, report it to 1-800-ASK-USPS.
At last month’s ANA meeting, an ANA member volunteered to attend the May 21st meeting of the Brooklyn Post Office’s Community Advisory Council (CAC) on behalf of ANA. The CAC, chaired by the Brooklyn Postmaster, was founded a year ago as a result of borough-wide complaints about Brooklyn’s post offices. Its goal is to be accountable to the public. The ANA member’s report included this information:
Report complaints, such as misdelivered mail, to 1-800-ASK-USPS.
The name and phone number of the KPO manager are supposed to be on view inside of the post office.
Based on the amount of credit card usage by customers, the KPO is not eligible for a self-service kiosk. However, an attendee at the ANA meeting stated that credit card usage is low because the credit card machines are broken.
KPO is eligible for scales for use by customers, foreign language posters, and passport fairs.
A Contract Postal Unit (CPU) will open in Kensington (a CPU is a privately-run kiosk that is inside of an existing retail store and has a person in attendance) if a retailer can be found who has an appropriate space and is willing to house the CPU.
The Brooklyn Post Office participates in the USPS’s Mystery Shopper project (http://www.usps.com/strategicplanning/stp2007/improve_002.htm).
The manager of the KPO has been invited to participate at the next ANA meeting. Assemblymember Jim Brennan pointed out that zip code 11215 (Park Slope) has three post offices, but Kensington only has one. He said that Congress would have to designate money for an additional post office for us and suggested that Yvette Clarke, our representative in the House of Representatives, be invited to the September meeting.
Traffic congestion: An ANA member reported on a Department of Transportation (DOT) meeting about street traffic congestion on Church Avenue between McDonald Avenue and Utica Avenue caused by double parked cars, cars making illegal U-turns, bicyclists, and the lack of ten-second pedestrian phasing (which turns the WALK light on ten seconds before the green light goes on) and on sidewalk congestion caused by merchandise placed in front of stores. On Thursday, June 19th, DOT will conduct a walk-through of Church Avenue to learn about specific problems. We are invited to meet up with the DOT representatives at Church Avenue and Coney Island Avenue at 5:15, walk with them to McDonald Avenue, and point out the problems as we see them.
Express bus service elimination: The MTA’s Vice President of Planning and Operations unsuccessfully attempted to justify to the large number of aggrieved commuters the elimination of the BM1 and BM2 express bus stops in Kensington.
The major issues mentioned by the Kensington commuters are: 1) During the day, there is often a forty-five minute wait between buses because the staggering is “off.” This is detrimental to the community because the bus functions as a viable transportation alternative for the elderly and the sick. 2) Kensington commuters often see BM1 and BM2 buses that are only half-filled drive past them as they wait for the very full BM3 and BM4 buses to stop for them. As a result, some Kensingtonians have to stand up on these BM3 and BM4 buses (the MTA VP told us that that does not happen). It is clear that resources need to be allocated better.
The VP told us that Command Bus left a mess that the MTA has been cleaning up. We in Kensington are defined as part of that mess: When an express bus stops to pick us up, we make the commute longer for passengers who boarded at the beginning of the route. He promised that larger buses will be assigned to the BM3 and BM4 lines. He said that if those get overcrowded, the MTA will think about restoring some of our BM1 and BM2 service. If the MTA does change the schedule, it will not go into effect until September.
In response to requests for Sunday service, the VP told us that we have no Sunday service because we do not use the bus much on Saturdays. If you have problems with the bus and would like to complain about them, call:
James J. Harding, Jr.
Vice President, Intergovernmental and Community Relations
128-15 28th Avenue
Flushing, NY 11354
Work: 718.445.3100 x 3420
Cell: 347.203.8382
Fax: 718.961.2660
Jim.harding@mtabusco.com
To complain about the F train, call 646.252.5800 and ask for:
Lois Tendler
Director, MTA NYC Transit Government and Community Relations2 Broadway, D 17.140
New York, NY 10004
718-694-5127
ltendle@nyct.com
The VP will report back to the ANA president in two to three weeks.
ANA committees and changes: Over the summer, the ANA will establish a committee to draft changes to the by-laws in order to address boundary issues for members, membership and membership dues, and streamline the officer core. Once complete and in effect, the ANA will nominate officers for the new positions and hold elections.
Next meeting: The next full meeting of ANA will be in September, date to be announced.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Coffe Shop on Ft. Hamilton?
FROM THE IN-BOX:
I was just walking by the old Jimmy's Deli Grocery on the corner of Ft. Hamilton Parkway and E. 4th St (across the street from IHM Church) and noticed some guys working. I popped my head in and asked what was going to be there. One fellow, Rodrigo, told me that he is opening a coffee shop there! It will have tables and a patio. He will be selling "very good coffee," as well as pastries, bagels, sandwiches, etc... The place will be called "The Oak and The Iris" and he hopes to be open in about 3 weeks.
I was just walking by the old Jimmy's Deli Grocery on the corner of Ft. Hamilton Parkway and E. 4th St (across the street from IHM Church) and noticed some guys working. I popped my head in and asked what was going to be there. One fellow, Rodrigo, told me that he is opening a coffee shop there! It will have tables and a patio. He will be selling "very good coffee," as well as pastries, bagels, sandwiches, etc... The place will be called "The Oak and The Iris" and he hopes to be open in about 3 weeks.
Off-Leash Hours
Please sign the petition below in support of off-leash hours from 5pm to 9pm in the Nethermead within Prospect Park.
We urge a return to off-leash hours in Prospect Park's Neathermead from 5pm to 9pm, Monday through Fiday, excluding holidays. This long-standing privilege was lost during last year's change in the NYC Off-Leash Law.
FIDO Off-Leash in the Nethermead Petition
We urge a return to off-leash hours in Prospect Park's Neathermead from 5pm to 9pm, Monday through Fiday, excluding holidays. This long-standing privilege was lost during last year's change in the NYC Off-Leash Law.
FIDO Off-Leash in the Nethermead Petition
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Bill de Blasio - Local Graffiti Removal
Bd's local office on Ft. Hamilton Pkwy is looking for volunteers to help catalog all the graffiti in order to have it removed. If you are interested in working with you can call or stop by the office.
Councilmember Bill de Blasio
2907 Ft. Hamilton Parkway
Brooklyn, NY 11218
(O) 718-854-9791
(F) 718-854-1146
Councilmember Bill de Blasio
2907 Ft. Hamilton Parkway
Brooklyn, NY 11218
(O) 718-854-9791
(F) 718-854-1146
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Children's Store for Church Ave!?
We just got word there is a new Children's Store called Rich Frog set to open this weekend on Church Ave (b/w East 2nd and 3rd). Anyone got the scoop?
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Where the Locals at?
On June 12th local artists Ernest Concepcion (from Kensington) and Saul Chernick (from Windsor Terrace) will be showing a selection of paintings and drawings at the Phatory Gallery in the East Village through August 5th that riff on caricatures seen frequently in old graphic art, comic strips and street art.
While retracing the development of continued linear movement, both artists transform banal, everyday imagery into abundantly complex fantasies. Chernick's two-tone drawings focus on the individual mark as a critical component, forming a bridge to classical drawing while piecing together phantasmagoric representations. In complimentary fashion, science fiction underlies Concepcion's work, which begins as an empty landscape that is quickly tagged with spaceships, robots and mythical beasts battling each other in an imaginary war. This exhibition explores the pictorial tensions of sequential art as the drawn line evolves gradually from one subject into another.
Saul Chernick completed his degree in art at the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University and is represented by the Max Protetch Gallery. Ernest Concepcion receive d his degree from the University of the Phillippines in Quezon City and has exhibited in numerous group shows throughout New York City. The Phatory is located at 618 E 9th Street, between Avenues B and C.
Gallery Opening: June 12th 7pm-9pm
Gallery Hours: Thurs - Fri, 8pm-11pm; Sat - Sun, 1pm-6pm
While retracing the development of continued linear movement, both artists transform banal, everyday imagery into abundantly complex fantasies. Chernick's two-tone drawings focus on the individual mark as a critical component, forming a bridge to classical drawing while piecing together phantasmagoric representations. In complimentary fashion, science fiction underlies Concepcion's work, which begins as an empty landscape that is quickly tagged with spaceships, robots and mythical beasts battling each other in an imaginary war. This exhibition explores the pictorial tensions of sequential art as the drawn line evolves gradually from one subject into another.
Saul Chernick completed his degree in art at the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University and is represented by the Max Protetch Gallery. Ernest Concepcion receive d his degree from the University of the Phillippines in Quezon City and has exhibited in numerous group shows throughout New York City. The Phatory is located at 618 E 9th Street, between Avenues B and C.
Gallery Opening: June 12th 7pm-9pm
Gallery Hours: Thurs - Fri, 8pm-11pm; Sat - Sun, 1pm-6pm
FAROS
We got this in the In-Box and wanted to share.....
This 50 seater place has survived everything in the area for over a 20 year period. Recently renovated this place is family owned/operated by a family that is been in the restaurant business over 30 years serving Park Slope, Down Town Brooklyn as well as The Bay Ridge “Pegasus Restaurant”. (The above mentioned past history is displayed on 5x7 signs on each table). Their menu offers a great variety of foods, prices are moderate and the food is great. The only place I know that offers fresh squeezed Valencia Orange Juice made to order. They are soon to offer outdoor service in their back yard. The place is next to Kabir’s Bakery, Church & Mcdonald.
This 50 seater place has survived everything in the area for over a 20 year period. Recently renovated this place is family owned/operated by a family that is been in the restaurant business over 30 years serving Park Slope, Down Town Brooklyn as well as The Bay Ridge “Pegasus Restaurant”. (The above mentioned past history is displayed on 5x7 signs on each table). Their menu offers a great variety of foods, prices are moderate and the food is great. The only place I know that offers fresh squeezed Valencia Orange Juice made to order. They are soon to offer outdoor service in their back yard. The place is next to Kabir’s Bakery, Church & Mcdonald.
ANA Meeting - June 12th
The next meeting of the Albemarle Neighborhood Association will be held on Thursday, June 12th, at University Place at 385 McDonald Avenue, on the lower level.
The General Membership meeting will start promptly at 7:00 p.m. First nominations for officers for 2008/2009 will be held. Membership issues will be discussed and a by-laws committee will be formed that will be responsible for any changes that may be required if boundaries, membership, and dues are to be changed. They will also try to have updates on Foodtown, the Post Office meeting, and the MTA elevator. At the May 15th meeting, there was a question about the dramatic reduction of express bus service in the community. A representative from the MTA will be at the June 12th meeting to discuss the changes in the BM1 and BM2 buses.
***Refreshments will be provided by Foodtown*** (Thank you Foodtown!)
The General Membership meeting will start promptly at 7:00 p.m. First nominations for officers for 2008/2009 will be held. Membership issues will be discussed and a by-laws committee will be formed that will be responsible for any changes that may be required if boundaries, membership, and dues are to be changed. They will also try to have updates on Foodtown, the Post Office meeting, and the MTA elevator. At the May 15th meeting, there was a question about the dramatic reduction of express bus service in the community. A representative from the MTA will be at the June 12th meeting to discuss the changes in the BM1 and BM2 buses.
***Refreshments will be provided by Foodtown*** (Thank you Foodtown!)
Where the Locals at?
Kensington resident Steven Coburn will be performing on piano and organ this weekend in two different venues:
The first is as the accompanist and assistant director for the Brooklyn Community Chorus, doing an American composers program at 7 pm, Saturday June 7th at Old First Church, corner of 7th Avenue and Carroll Street in Park Slope. Featuring works by Copland, Thompson, Bernstein, Paul Simon, Gershwin, Steven Coburn, and others. $10, $8 seniors and students.
The second is as the accompanist and assistant director of the Park Slope Singers, doing a program of choral works by Mozart, Gounod, Gilbert and Sullivan, and others, at 2:30 pm, Sunday June 8th at St. Saviours Church, corner of 6th Street and 8th Avenue, Park Slope. $10, $5 seniors and students.
The first is as the accompanist and assistant director for the Brooklyn Community Chorus, doing an American composers program at 7 pm, Saturday June 7th at Old First Church, corner of 7th Avenue and Carroll Street in Park Slope. Featuring works by Copland, Thompson, Bernstein, Paul Simon, Gershwin, Steven Coburn, and others. $10, $8 seniors and students.
The second is as the accompanist and assistant director of the Park Slope Singers, doing a program of choral works by Mozart, Gounod, Gilbert and Sullivan, and others, at 2:30 pm, Sunday June 8th at St. Saviours Church, corner of 6th Street and 8th Avenue, Park Slope. $10, $5 seniors and students.
PS 230 Spring Fair
Annual PS 230 Spring Fair, 12:00 to 3:30 PM, in the upper school schoolyard. Enjoy games, food, face painting, crafts, and a performance by PS 230 Music teacher Dan Schorr from 12:45 to 1:30. ( Accompanied by his band, the Good Boys, Dan will be performing favorite original songs from music class, including "I Saw A Dinkleheimer", "Terry, the Tennessee Turtle", "Chicken Pickin'", and others.)
PS 230 is at the corner of Albemarle Rd. and McDonald Ave. Enter the school yard through the playground on McDonald, or from Dahill Road at 12th Ave.
PS 230 is at the corner of Albemarle Rd. and McDonald Ave. Enter the school yard through the playground on McDonald, or from Dahill Road at 12th Ave.
Monday, June 2, 2008
For Riders and Mounts, Rough Going in Prospect Park
NY TIMES - Published: June 2, 2008
The riding trails in Prospect Park have become the focus of a dispute between riders who use Kensington Stables and the park’s administrator.
NY TIMES - Published: June 2, 2008
The riding trails in Prospect Park have become the focus of a dispute between riders who use Kensington Stables and the park’s administrator.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Sunday Sidewalk Sales
We hear there are 2 sidewalk sales happening today...
One on East 4th b/w Caton and Albemarle and another on East 2nd b/w Greenwood and Fort Hamilton.
One on East 4th b/w Caton and Albemarle and another on East 2nd b/w Greenwood and Fort Hamilton.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Anyone try Los Caudillos?
"Los Caudillos" at 37-12 13 Avenue.
Open every day, 21 hours a day.
Mexican plus everything else.
Open every day, 21 hours a day.
Mexican plus everything else.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Forum?
We've gotten a lot of requests to add a forum to the blog... Does anyone know HOW to do that? If so, can you email us and give us the info?
In the meantime we got this from a new resident:
I'm moving from Prospect Heights to Kensington in a couple of weeks and was bummed to find how few neighborhoodies were posting on the Brooklynian.com message board for the nabe. Perhaps if you link to it on your blog, the day to day traffic will increase and we can begin to build an e-community.
Here's the direct link to our board:http://www.brooklynian.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=167
In the meantime we got this from a new resident:
I'm moving from Prospect Heights to Kensington in a couple of weeks and was bummed to find how few neighborhoodies were posting on the Brooklynian.com message board for the nabe. Perhaps if you link to it on your blog, the day to day traffic will increase and we can begin to build an e-community.
Here's the direct link to our board:http://www.brooklynian.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=167
Local Bodega Robbery
A&M Market was broken into some time around 3 am Wednesday morning.
From a neighbor: Poor Mohammad, the BEST deli owner ever, had JUST come back from visiting his family. His cousins had been running it in absentia and he’d JUST come back yesterday, just to have it broken into that night. I couldn’t tell what they took but saw Mohammad and the landlord cleaning some tags off the glass.
From a neighbor: Poor Mohammad, the BEST deli owner ever, had JUST come back from visiting his family. His cousins had been running it in absentia and he’d JUST come back yesterday, just to have it broken into that night. I couldn’t tell what they took but saw Mohammad and the landlord cleaning some tags off the glass.
SPLASH!
FREE dance performance at Greenwood Playground this weekend!
Saturday, May 31st at 2 PM
All ages are invited to enjoy Splash!, a dance performance presented by Cynthia King Dance Studios at Greenwood Playground, on E. 5th St. between Ft. Hamilton Pkwy and Greenwood Ave.
Saturday, May 31st at 2 PM
All ages are invited to enjoy Splash!, a dance performance presented by Cynthia King Dance Studios at Greenwood Playground, on E. 5th St. between Ft. Hamilton Pkwy and Greenwood Ave.
Best Brownstoner Comment re: Living in Article
Wow! The secret is out!
Poster from Manhattan - I dare you to walk down East 4th street between Caton and Beverly Road. I doubt you'll think it's ugly. It's also just a 5-10 minute walk to Prospect Park.
Kensington has many advantages:
NO RIDICULOUSLY EXPENSIVE RENOVATIONS! Most of Ditmas Park is landmarked. Not Kensington. It means that you don't have to deal with the expense and hassle doing landmark-quality upgrades and renovations. That said, people still have taste and don't turn their homes into Fedders extravaganzas.
HELP WITH THE MORTGAGE
There are also many 2 and 3 family homes available. That means that if you're a modest person looking for an investment, you can find a nice house with a yard and a basement, AND have people help you pay your mortgage. Ditmas Park has few multi-family homes. Also, homes are cheap enough that the rental income will actually make a dent in your mortgage.
LIGHT!
Most homes are detached. I had no idea how much natural light the 5 feet between me and my neighbor's house would allow. It's made me realize that living in a brownstone is like living in a dungeon.
SCHOOLS!
Check out www.insideschools.org and you'll find great reviews for PS 130 and 230.
COMMUTE!
13 minutes to Wall Street if you take the express bus from Church and Ocean Parkway. 30 or so minutes to midtown. Take that Park Slope, Carroll Gardens and Cobble Hill!
FOOD!
So what if we don't have any yuppified restaurants. Besides, I've learned to cook many authentic international dishes since moving here - Bangladeshi biryani, tacos with cecina (salted Mexican beef), russian stuffed cabbage, etc.
MULTI-CUTURAL UTOPIA!
Kensington is what America should be all about - taking advantage of the unique ability to live side-by-side with people from all over the world. Have you ever been to freaking Europe? It's the most xenophobic, homogenous place...reminds me of Manhattan.
And regardless of what the haters say - THERE IS STUFF TO DO!
Try going to Prospect Park, riding horses, using the bike path to travel to Coney Island, playing tennis at the Prospect Park Tennis Center, hanging out on Cortelyou Road just over the border in Ditmas Park, bargain hunting at the various $2 stores where you can pick up samples and overstock from Banana Republic, Sigrid Olsen, Levi's, etc.,
Oh - and NYC Icy, formerly of the East Village, just opened up just off of Coney Island Avenue. Try their mexican chocolate! Yummy!
Unlike Ditmas Park, this is a neighborhood in which people don't hire gardeners, so you'll probably end up spending a lot of free time chatting with your neighbors as you weed your lawn or plant flowers. There's a real sense of community. And, unlike Ditmas Park, people actually use their porches!
The only thing lacking is a coffee shop. And it would be great if the coffee shop catered to ALL of the residents by serving various teas - masala chai, russian teas, polish teas, cafe con leche, mexican hot chocolate, whatever the Israelis drink, and good-old-fashioned yuppie-caliber coffee.
To people considering moving here - please don't...unless you value the diversity of our community and are willing to work to preserve it. Please don't come here begging for a Blue Ribbon outlet or a Starbucks. I'll have to kick your ass.
Poster from Manhattan - I dare you to walk down East 4th street between Caton and Beverly Road. I doubt you'll think it's ugly. It's also just a 5-10 minute walk to Prospect Park.
Kensington has many advantages:
NO RIDICULOUSLY EXPENSIVE RENOVATIONS! Most of Ditmas Park is landmarked. Not Kensington. It means that you don't have to deal with the expense and hassle doing landmark-quality upgrades and renovations. That said, people still have taste and don't turn their homes into Fedders extravaganzas.
HELP WITH THE MORTGAGE
There are also many 2 and 3 family homes available. That means that if you're a modest person looking for an investment, you can find a nice house with a yard and a basement, AND have people help you pay your mortgage. Ditmas Park has few multi-family homes. Also, homes are cheap enough that the rental income will actually make a dent in your mortgage.
LIGHT!
Most homes are detached. I had no idea how much natural light the 5 feet between me and my neighbor's house would allow. It's made me realize that living in a brownstone is like living in a dungeon.
SCHOOLS!
Check out www.insideschools.org and you'll find great reviews for PS 130 and 230.
COMMUTE!
13 minutes to Wall Street if you take the express bus from Church and Ocean Parkway. 30 or so minutes to midtown. Take that Park Slope, Carroll Gardens and Cobble Hill!
FOOD!
So what if we don't have any yuppified restaurants. Besides, I've learned to cook many authentic international dishes since moving here - Bangladeshi biryani, tacos with cecina (salted Mexican beef), russian stuffed cabbage, etc.
MULTI-CUTURAL UTOPIA!
Kensington is what America should be all about - taking advantage of the unique ability to live side-by-side with people from all over the world. Have you ever been to freaking Europe? It's the most xenophobic, homogenous place...reminds me of Manhattan.
And regardless of what the haters say - THERE IS STUFF TO DO!
Try going to Prospect Park, riding horses, using the bike path to travel to Coney Island, playing tennis at the Prospect Park Tennis Center, hanging out on Cortelyou Road just over the border in Ditmas Park, bargain hunting at the various $2 stores where you can pick up samples and overstock from Banana Republic, Sigrid Olsen, Levi's, etc.,
Oh - and NYC Icy, formerly of the East Village, just opened up just off of Coney Island Avenue. Try their mexican chocolate! Yummy!
Unlike Ditmas Park, this is a neighborhood in which people don't hire gardeners, so you'll probably end up spending a lot of free time chatting with your neighbors as you weed your lawn or plant flowers. There's a real sense of community. And, unlike Ditmas Park, people actually use their porches!
The only thing lacking is a coffee shop. And it would be great if the coffee shop catered to ALL of the residents by serving various teas - masala chai, russian teas, polish teas, cafe con leche, mexican hot chocolate, whatever the Israelis drink, and good-old-fashioned yuppie-caliber coffee.
To people considering moving here - please don't...unless you value the diversity of our community and are willing to work to preserve it. Please don't come here begging for a Blue Ribbon outlet or a Starbucks. I'll have to kick your ass.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Community Call to Action
Please help your neighbors west of Church! Above is one view of the 'vacant' lot at 31-35 Church Ave. Local residents have been asking people to call Greiner-Maltz (the broker) and tell them to clean up the lot. If you'd like to put an end to this mess please call and leave a quick message. One neighbor has had rats come from this lot into her yard for years but her complaints have gone without response. We are told that with the exception of the garbage the lot has sat empty over twenty years! Below is the information from local residents for the broker of the lot. Please call and tell them to keep Church Ave. clean!Greiner-Maltz (broker)
lot at 31-35 Church Ave
#718-786-5050
Check out the post and subsequent comments on Brownstoner regarding the Kensington article in this weekend's Living In section...
Times Tackles Kensington, Sees Affordable Melting Pot
Times Tackles Kensington, Sees Affordable Melting Pot
Monday, May 26, 2008
West End of Church - An Update
From a neighbor:
Triangle Below Greenwood Cemetery is Moving Along!
A few recent changes down on this end would include the greenification of Church Ave with a few new trees, the new Taco King on Church Ave at Story St. that makes their tortillas fresh to order, and the new video store /internet cafe just off of Church at Dahill. Things are definitely moving along on the west end of Church!
Triangle Below Greenwood Cemetery is Moving Along!
A few recent changes down on this end would include the greenification of Church Ave with a few new trees, the new Taco King on Church Ave at Story St. that makes their tortillas fresh to order, and the new video store /internet cafe just off of Church at Dahill. Things are definitely moving along on the west end of Church!
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Where the Locals at?
Local Kensington girl, Angie Pontani (with her sisters) featured in Burlesque Makes a Comeback NY Times multi-media slide show! Also check out the article, The Almost Naked City
NY Times Article
Living in Kensington, Brooklyn
Name From London, People From Everywhere
The Kensington area of Brooklyn, with lower prices and a slower pace than “brownstone Brooklyn,” offers an increasingly popular alternative to the borough’s more gentrified neighborhoods.
Side note....
Did anyone else notice the second "On the Market" listing was a 1 bedroom at 235 Ocean Parkway that seemed way out of range? ($410k for a 1 bedroom in Kensington! We just saw a great real 2 bedroom for $420k)
Name From London, People From Everywhere
The Kensington area of Brooklyn, with lower prices and a slower pace than “brownstone Brooklyn,” offers an increasingly popular alternative to the borough’s more gentrified neighborhoods.
Side note....
Did anyone else notice the second "On the Market" listing was a 1 bedroom at 235 Ocean Parkway that seemed way out of range? ($410k for a 1 bedroom in Kensington! We just saw a great real 2 bedroom for $420k)
Available Artist Studio?!
Could this be in the building near Bergament that we and other locals have been trying to contact for artist space for a year now?
Friday, May 23, 2008
ANA Meeting Minutes
Albemarle Neighborhood Association Meeting Minutes - May 15, 2008
By-laws: Copies of the by-laws were distributed. Written in 1973, they have not been revised since 1980. The street boundaries of ANA have never been changed, but they can be so that people currently living outside of the boundaries will be able to join ANA. A By-laws Committee is needed to amend the by-laws. The committee would work during the summer and make recommendations to the membership at the September meeting.
Elections: The Vice President and the Treasurer want to retire from the Board. The Treasurer described the job’s duties. Elections will be held at the September meeting.
Financial report: The Treasurer’s Financial Report for 2007 was distributed. It includes information on the balance in ANA’s checking account at Astoria Federal Savings as of December 31, 2007 ($4,861.99), deposits ($1,715) and disbursements ($932.50) made in 2007, and the proposed budget for 2008, including proposed income ($900) and proposed expenses ($900). Dues collected in 2007 totaled $215; proposed dues collected in 2008 total $900, reflecting ANA’s desire to increase the size of its membership.
Publicizing meetings: It is illegal to post meeting announcements on street lights. From now on, announcements of upcoming meetings might be limited to being mailed, left in apartment buildings and the bank lobby, and placed in store windows.
Communications Committee: Scott Allinson reported on the discussions held at the committee’s first meeting, including revamping the newsletter, letters, flyers, and logo and creating an online presence for ANA. Larry Jayson said that a column for e-mail addresses will be added to the attendance sheet.
Increasing membership: In the past, an individual living in an apartment building could not be a member unless her or his building had both a floor captain and a building representative. This requirement can be dropped so that an individual living in an apartment building can become a member. Also, each block had to have a block captain. The floor and block captains collected dues by going door-to-door on their blocks or in their buildings. Kensington is a diverse neighborhood, and new members can be brought in by setting a common goal.
ANA meets in a synagogue because the meeting room is large enough and the fee is low. However, some neighbors might hesitate to enter a synagogue.
Business membership might be reinstituted at a cost of $25 per year. Business members are entitled to a free ad in ANA’s newsletter. Stores that had been members gave discounts to ANA members.
Kensington Post Office: Larry received a phone call and e-mail from the office of Kensington’s Congresswoman, Yvette Clarke. He also got a call from a representative of the USPS. Larry is not able to go to a USPS meeting that will be held at the Cadman Plaza Post Office on Wednesday, May 21st, at 11 a.m., so someone at the meeting volunteered to go in his place. Larry will monitor the results. Someone else at the meeting reported that she got a piece of mail from the USPS inviting her to participate in a confidential national volunteer panel. The volunteers are sent three to six test pieces of mail every day by the USPS to measure the reliability of mail delivery in various neighborhoods.
Foodtown: The manager says that the renovations will be completed by the end of June. New floors will be installed.
Astoria Federal Savings: Larry has been seeing more tellers in the bank. The bank’s regional representative will speak at our June meeting.
MTA elevator: Andy Inglesby of the MTA told Larry on May 12th that the elevator on McDonald Ave. near Church Ave. will be finished and operational by June 30th.
Graffiti: The city cleaned off the graffiti that was on the computer store at Church Ave. and E. 4th Street.
Speeding cars: Some streets need traffic lights or stop signs. It might be easier to get speed bumps.
Buses: People are confused about which of the former Command Bus Company’s lines (B1, B2, B3, and B4) are still in service and which stops they make (Command was a private company that merged with the MTA in December 2005, but people in the neighborhood still call it Command). The bus provides local service within Brooklyn and express service to Manhattan. People said that the buses seem to be bypassing Ocean Parkway. Larry will contact our elected officials and find out if that is the case.
Meeting schedule: ANA does not meet in July or August. The Executive Committee does meet, especially if an emergency arises that it needs to deal with.
Next meeting date: The next meeting will be held on Thursday, June 12th. We will meet outdoors on Albemarle Road between E. 4th and E. 5th streets, weather permitting. Bring a chair to sit on.
By-laws: Copies of the by-laws were distributed. Written in 1973, they have not been revised since 1980. The street boundaries of ANA have never been changed, but they can be so that people currently living outside of the boundaries will be able to join ANA. A By-laws Committee is needed to amend the by-laws. The committee would work during the summer and make recommendations to the membership at the September meeting.
Elections: The Vice President and the Treasurer want to retire from the Board. The Treasurer described the job’s duties. Elections will be held at the September meeting.
Financial report: The Treasurer’s Financial Report for 2007 was distributed. It includes information on the balance in ANA’s checking account at Astoria Federal Savings as of December 31, 2007 ($4,861.99), deposits ($1,715) and disbursements ($932.50) made in 2007, and the proposed budget for 2008, including proposed income ($900) and proposed expenses ($900). Dues collected in 2007 totaled $215; proposed dues collected in 2008 total $900, reflecting ANA’s desire to increase the size of its membership.
Publicizing meetings: It is illegal to post meeting announcements on street lights. From now on, announcements of upcoming meetings might be limited to being mailed, left in apartment buildings and the bank lobby, and placed in store windows.
Communications Committee: Scott Allinson reported on the discussions held at the committee’s first meeting, including revamping the newsletter, letters, flyers, and logo and creating an online presence for ANA. Larry Jayson said that a column for e-mail addresses will be added to the attendance sheet.
Increasing membership: In the past, an individual living in an apartment building could not be a member unless her or his building had both a floor captain and a building representative. This requirement can be dropped so that an individual living in an apartment building can become a member. Also, each block had to have a block captain. The floor and block captains collected dues by going door-to-door on their blocks or in their buildings. Kensington is a diverse neighborhood, and new members can be brought in by setting a common goal.
ANA meets in a synagogue because the meeting room is large enough and the fee is low. However, some neighbors might hesitate to enter a synagogue.
Business membership might be reinstituted at a cost of $25 per year. Business members are entitled to a free ad in ANA’s newsletter. Stores that had been members gave discounts to ANA members.
Kensington Post Office: Larry received a phone call and e-mail from the office of Kensington’s Congresswoman, Yvette Clarke. He also got a call from a representative of the USPS. Larry is not able to go to a USPS meeting that will be held at the Cadman Plaza Post Office on Wednesday, May 21st, at 11 a.m., so someone at the meeting volunteered to go in his place. Larry will monitor the results. Someone else at the meeting reported that she got a piece of mail from the USPS inviting her to participate in a confidential national volunteer panel. The volunteers are sent three to six test pieces of mail every day by the USPS to measure the reliability of mail delivery in various neighborhoods.
Foodtown: The manager says that the renovations will be completed by the end of June. New floors will be installed.
Astoria Federal Savings: Larry has been seeing more tellers in the bank. The bank’s regional representative will speak at our June meeting.
MTA elevator: Andy Inglesby of the MTA told Larry on May 12th that the elevator on McDonald Ave. near Church Ave. will be finished and operational by June 30th.
Graffiti: The city cleaned off the graffiti that was on the computer store at Church Ave. and E. 4th Street.
Speeding cars: Some streets need traffic lights or stop signs. It might be easier to get speed bumps.
Buses: People are confused about which of the former Command Bus Company’s lines (B1, B2, B3, and B4) are still in service and which stops they make (Command was a private company that merged with the MTA in December 2005, but people in the neighborhood still call it Command). The bus provides local service within Brooklyn and express service to Manhattan. People said that the buses seem to be bypassing Ocean Parkway. Larry will contact our elected officials and find out if that is the case.
Meeting schedule: ANA does not meet in July or August. The Executive Committee does meet, especially if an emergency arises that it needs to deal with.
Next meeting date: The next meeting will be held on Thursday, June 12th. We will meet outdoors on Albemarle Road between E. 4th and E. 5th streets, weather permitting. Bring a chair to sit on.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Greenwood Playground Events
Upcoming Free events at Greenwood Playground:
1. This Saturday, May 24th at 10:00 MUSIC FOR TODDLERS Get ready to jump, sing and dance with Playground of Sound Music teacher Michael Harren. (birth to 4)
2. Saturday, May 31, 2:00 SPLASH, a dance performance presented by Cynthia King
3. June 24th, 10:00 COLOR CONUNDRUM, a Prospect Park Zoo puppet show. (ages 3-6)
4. Weekly beginning in July (day to be decided) 10:00-2:00 ART IN THE PARK Art programming in the playground
5. MEETING with Friends of Greenwood Playground Wednesday May 28th, Crossroads Cafe 7:00
FYI: we need new members. This will be the last season of free parkprogramming unless new members step up. Next year we will have all theoverflow of Vanderbilt playground when that closes for renovation. Itwould be great to have a playground committee still in existance.
1. This Saturday, May 24th at 10:00 MUSIC FOR TODDLERS Get ready to jump, sing and dance with Playground of Sound Music teacher Michael Harren. (birth to 4)
2. Saturday, May 31, 2:00 SPLASH, a dance performance presented by Cynthia King
3. June 24th, 10:00 COLOR CONUNDRUM, a Prospect Park Zoo puppet show. (ages 3-6)
4. Weekly beginning in July (day to be decided) 10:00-2:00 ART IN THE PARK Art programming in the playground
5. MEETING with Friends of Greenwood Playground Wednesday May 28th, Crossroads Cafe 7:00
FYI: we need new members. This will be the last season of free parkprogramming unless new members step up. Next year we will have all theoverflow of Vanderbilt playground when that closes for renovation. Itwould be great to have a playground committee still in existance.
Memorial for Linda Woo
On the morning of May 16th, 2008, beloved Kyung-Sook "Linda" Woo, 63, who owned the Eden Dry Cleaners at 10th Avenue and Windsor Place in Windsor Terrace, was found dead in her store. Mrs. Woo had owned the shop for years after moving here from Korea and used to live across the street with her family before moving to Queens. Jamal Winter, 22, is being held without bail in connection with the death. He was arraigned on first and second degree murder charges and first degree robbery. At the time of this tragedy, Winter was out on bail on another robbery case and was scheduled to go on trial for that case in June.
Thanks to Robert Bello Landscaping for donating the tree, to The NYC Parks Department for arranging a speedy tree planting, and to Clieve Christian and the Prospect Park Commerce Bank for generously helping set up the Linda Woo Memorial Fund. The fund will pay for a plaque to be placed under the tree and for a fence to enclose the tree's base. After these items are paid for, any additional funds will be given to Mrs. Woo's family to use at their discretion.
There are several ways to contribute to the fund:
1) Checks can be made out to the Linda Woo Memorial Fund, placed in an envelope marked "Memorial Fund" and dropped in the mail slots of either 243 Windsor Place- beginning Tuesday May 27th, or 18 Reeve Place- beginning immediately.
2) Checks can be made out to the Linda Woo Memorial Fund and mailed to:
The Linda Woo Memorial Fund
c/o Brenna Beirne
711 Greenwood Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11218
3)You may go to www.paypal.com and donate to this account community11218@gmail.com which has been created specifically for this memorial fund -note that the purpose of your donation is for the Linda Woo memorial fund. Paypal accepts major credit cards.
Thanks to Robert Bello Landscaping for donating the tree, to The NYC Parks Department for arranging a speedy tree planting, and to Clieve Christian and the Prospect Park Commerce Bank for generously helping set up the Linda Woo Memorial Fund. The fund will pay for a plaque to be placed under the tree and for a fence to enclose the tree's base. After these items are paid for, any additional funds will be given to Mrs. Woo's family to use at their discretion.
There are several ways to contribute to the fund:
1) Checks can be made out to the Linda Woo Memorial Fund, placed in an envelope marked "Memorial Fund" and dropped in the mail slots of either 243 Windsor Place- beginning Tuesday May 27th, or 18 Reeve Place- beginning immediately.
2) Checks can be made out to the Linda Woo Memorial Fund and mailed to:
The Linda Woo Memorial Fund
c/o Brenna Beirne
711 Greenwood Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11218
3)You may go to www.paypal.com and donate to this account community11218@gmail.com which has been created specifically for this memorial fund -note that the purpose of your donation is for the Linda Woo memorial fund. Paypal accepts major credit cards.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Update on Church Ave. Petition
Dear Neighbors,
It was announced to your moderator on 16MAY08 that cleaning to the end of Church Ave will start immediately with no loss on the OP side on Church Ave.
Thanks,
Tom Gray
District Director
City Council Member Bill de Blasio
It was announced to your moderator on 16MAY08 that cleaning to the end of Church Ave will start immediately with no loss on the OP side on Church Ave.
Thanks,
Tom Gray
District Director
City Council Member Bill de Blasio
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Need more Friends...
The Friends of Greenwood Playground are looking for new members to help us continue to make the playground a safe and fun place for families in our community. The Friends raise money, organize events, and raise awareness about issues facing the playground. Involvement is minimal – we generally correspond through email and work quickly and efficiently. We’ve got lots of fun stuff planned this summer for the playground, which is located on East 5th Street between Fort Hamilton Parkway and Greenwood Avenue.
If you’d like to become more involved with the playground, meet other concerned neighbors, and do some good for our community, please join us on Wednesday, May 28th at 7:00 p.m. for a brief introductory meeting at Crossroads Cafe (1241A Prospect Avenue @ Reeve Place).
Many thanks,
The Friends of Greenwood Playground
If you’d like to become more involved with the playground, meet other concerned neighbors, and do some good for our community, please join us on Wednesday, May 28th at 7:00 p.m. for a brief introductory meeting at Crossroads Cafe (1241A Prospect Avenue @ Reeve Place).
Many thanks,
The Friends of Greenwood Playground
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Old Estelle = New Sushi?
We heard a rumour that the old space where Estelle was will be a sushi joint... is it true?
Sign the Petition!
Sign the Petition!
New York City Council Member Bill de Blasio, who represents Brooklyn's 39th Council District (including the neighborhoods of Cobble Hill, Carroll Gardens, Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, Kensington and Borough Park), has been taking steps to improve our wonderful neighborhoods. Recently he applied for, and received, a grant in the sum of $25,000 to have Ready, Willing and Able cleanup Church Ave between Coney Island Avenue and Dahill Road. Many members of our community in Kensington think that this effort stops short of its goal because it excludes the clean-up of the last three blocks of Church Ave between Dahill Road and 36th street. These 3 blocks are perhaps the dirtiest and most neglected part of Church Avenue by the F train. We seek to have members of our communities in Kensington and Borough Park to sign this petition to urge Council member de Blasio to clean-up Church Avenue's worst parts south of Dahill Road-- especially the 3 blocks from 36th street to Dahill here in Kensington.
New York City Council Member Bill de Blasio, who represents Brooklyn's 39th Council District (including the neighborhoods of Cobble Hill, Carroll Gardens, Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, Kensington and Borough Park), has been taking steps to improve our wonderful neighborhoods. Recently he applied for, and received, a grant in the sum of $25,000 to have Ready, Willing and Able cleanup Church Ave between Coney Island Avenue and Dahill Road. Many members of our community in Kensington think that this effort stops short of its goal because it excludes the clean-up of the last three blocks of Church Ave between Dahill Road and 36th street. These 3 blocks are perhaps the dirtiest and most neglected part of Church Avenue by the F train. We seek to have members of our communities in Kensington and Borough Park to sign this petition to urge Council member de Blasio to clean-up Church Avenue's worst parts south of Dahill Road-- especially the 3 blocks from 36th street to Dahill here in Kensington.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Kensington Blog - The Future
The future of the K-blog is for now unknown. We haven't had any time to post as our real life has taken over... we hope to be back at it "regularly" soon (maybe over the summer?). Is there anyone in the meantime that wants to take over? We can give you a direct link here?
New Trees!
One small step for Brooklyn one large step for Kensington! On the north corner of Church Ave b/w Ocean Pkwy and East 5th.
Monday, April 7, 2008
ANA Meeting
THIS THURSDAY! Come one come all for the Spring membership drive!
At Shaare Torah (corner of East 5th & Church Ave).
General Meeting begins - 7 pm
At Shaare Torah (corner of East 5th & Church Ave).
General Meeting begins - 7 pm
WT Library In Need
From the Friends of WT Library:
The toy sale is this Saturday, April 12, for the Windsor Terrace library. Rumor has it that NY 1 might show up to film the children's concert by Alex and the Kaleidoscope band. This is great except that we need more toys! We also need some volunteers to help us sort toys on Friday, April 11, between noon and 6 p.m. as well as help out during the sale anytime between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
If you're able to drop off some toys this week at the library that would be great! We'll be there on Friday from 12 noon to 6 p.m. to sort toys. The library is located on the corner of E.5th and Ft. Hamilton Parkway .
The toy sale runs from noon to 3 p.m.
The children's concert is from 1 to 2 p.m
The toy sale is this Saturday, April 12, for the Windsor Terrace library. Rumor has it that NY 1 might show up to film the children's concert by Alex and the Kaleidoscope band. This is great except that we need more toys! We also need some volunteers to help us sort toys on Friday, April 11, between noon and 6 p.m. as well as help out during the sale anytime between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
If you're able to drop off some toys this week at the library that would be great! We'll be there on Friday from 12 noon to 6 p.m. to sort toys. The library is located on the corner of E.5th and Ft. Hamilton Parkway .
The toy sale runs from noon to 3 p.m.
The children's concert is from 1 to 2 p.m
Sunday, April 6, 2008
K-Town Res. Names Roo
The winning name was entered by zoogoer Allison Make of Kensington. "Why Riley?" said Make. "Because it is my 1-year-old nephew's name, who I am totally in love with."
Brooklyn kangaroo's new Irish name
Brooklyn kangaroo's new Irish name
Where should I buy near Manhattan?
Q. I am looking to buy an apartment in New York within an hour's commute of Manhattan. I'm 25, make about $50,000 a year and want to be in a neighborhood with other young people. What can I afford and where should I look?
If you don't mind a longer commute, you'll get more space for your money further away — in Kensington or Clinton Hill, where studios cost $200K and 1BRs can be bought for $250K. But it's a one-hour train ride to midtown.
Daily News Real Estate
If you don't mind a longer commute, you'll get more space for your money further away — in Kensington or Clinton Hill, where studios cost $200K and 1BRs can be bought for $250K. But it's a one-hour train ride to midtown.
Daily News Real Estate
FAMILY MODEL PASSOVER SEDER
The Flatbush & Shaare Torah Jewish Center warmly invites parents and children to join us at our Family Model Passover Seder. There will be food, games, prizes, and fun for the whole family.
When: Sunday, April 13, 2008
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Address: 327 East 5th Street
RSVP (required): 718 871 - 5200
This is a free community event.
The Flatbush & Shaare Torah Jewish Center warmly invites parents and children to join us at our Family Model Passover Seder. There will be food, games, prizes, and fun for the whole family.
When: Sunday, April 13, 2008
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Address: 327 East 5th Street
RSVP (required): 718 871 - 5200
This is a free community event.
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