South End Neighborhood Association

January Meeting 2012

2012-01-10T04:54:00.013-05:00

South End Neighborhood Association Meeting
When: Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Time: 6pm – 8pm Eastern Time
Where: John A. Howe Library, 105 Schuyler Street

AGENDA
6:00-6:15
Opening Prayer ..... Major Israel Acosta (Salvation Army)

6:15-7:00
Capital South Campus Center Update ....... Trinity Alliance and AHA
Capital City Rescue Mission .............. Rev. Perry Jones
South End Improvement Corporation ........

7:15-7:45
Damien Center and Treasure Chest Thrift Store (295Hamilton Street) ... Craig Hansen
St. Peters Health Care.......... Carla Barberis-Ryan, Practice Manger for the Family Health Center on South Pearl Street

7:45-8:00
Updates from Community Partners, Community Issues

South End Neighborhood Association Meeting Schedule
When: Always on the fourth Tuesday of the month
Time: 6pm – 8pm Eastern Time
Location: John A. Howe Library, 105 Schuyler Street

Tuesday - January 24, 2012
Tuesday - February 28, 2012
Tuesday - March 27, 2012
Tuesday - April 24, 2012
Tuesday - May 22, 2012
Tuesday - June 26, 2012
Tuesday - July 3, 2012
Tuesday - August 28, 2012
Tuesday - September 25, 2012
Tuesday - October 23, 2012
Tuesday - November 27, 2012
Tuesday - December 25th 2012, meeting will be rescheduled, date to be determined

Black Family Technology Awareness Day

2012-01-06T17:58:00.003-05:00

Black Family Technology Awareness Day at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is designed to interest area young people and their families in pursuing occupations in the fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) fields, and the arts.

On Saturday, February 4, 2012, Rensselaer will host the 14th Black Family Technology Awareness Day event. The theme for the event is, “Tetherless Training for Tomorrow’s Technologies: Heroes, Role Models, and Mentors,” which pays homage to our past, present, and future leaders in science-related fields.
Black Family Technology Awareness Day is a great opportunity for young people and their families to get a taste of the excitement and possibilities of careers in science, technology, and engineering fields. There will be workshops led by Rensselaer professors, students, alumni and community organizations.

The event is free and open to the public. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at fam-tech@rpi.edu.

Participants receive a light breakfast and lunch, and participants under the age of 18 will have an opportunity to win a new computer and other door prizes/give-a-ways during our closing ceremonies (you must be present to win). T-shirts will be available on a first come first served basis.

December Announcements

2011-12-01T06:46:00.013-05:00

South End Neighborhood Association Meeting

When: Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Time: 6pm – 8pm Eastern Time

Where: John A. Howe Library, 105 Schuyler Street

AGENDA

St. Peters Health Facility .........

Updates from Community Partners

November Meeting

2011-11-11T08:40:00.003-05:00

South End Neighborhood Association Meeting

When: Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Time: 6pm – 8pm Eastern Time

Where: John A. Howe Library, 105 Schuyler Street

AGENDA

Albany 2030 plan and Choose Albany......... Kathleen Bronson

Disaster Preparedness......... Susan A. Riedy
Public Health Planner
Albany County Department of Health

Habitat for Humanity Udate ........ Emily Collins

Harriet Tubman Democratic High School.... Laura Greco

Feedback regarding the Expansion of the City Mission

Updates from Community Partners

Common Council Committe Meeting

2011-11-02T20:58:00.005-04:00

Important meeting to discuss obesity prevention, Youth employment, after-school programs, and workforce development:

COMMON COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETING
PARKS, RECREATION AND FAMILY SERVICES COMMITTEE

John Rosenzweig, Chair
Anton Konev, Vice Chair

DATE: Wednesday, November 9, 2011

PLACE: City Hall 2nd Floor - City Court Room 209

TIME: 5:30 P.M.

DISCUSSION:
RESOLUTION NUMBER 30.32.10R (As Amended)

RESOLUTION CREATING A “GET FIT ALBANY” AWARD IN THE CITY OF ALBANY
And

Discussion on various Youth Employment and Youth and Family Services issues

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: Yes

Council Member Konev and Sano introduced the following resolution:

RESOLUTION NUMBER 30.32.10R (as Amended)

RESOLUTION CREATING A “GET FIT ALBANY” AWARD IN THE CITY OF ALBANY

WHEREAS, according to the Centers for Disease Control, obesity among children has nearly doubled in the last decade. Obesity affects one in five children, ages 6-17, in the United States. Alarmingly, over 1/3 of American children, that is more than 9 million children in the United States, are either obese or overweight, and studies show today's children are not getting healthy food and the necessary exercise and activity for effective weight management and good health; It has increased by 54% among 6 to 11 year olds and 18% of males and 25% of females 12-17 years old are obese; and

WHEREAS, Hispanic and African-American youth are more likely to be overweight than Caucasian youth, 56% and 41% respectively. There appears to be a trend of obesity in African-American girls. The National Health and Nutrition examination survey conducted from 1988-1994 revealed that obesity has increased 40% in Caucasian girls, while the increase has been 150% in African American girls; and

WHEREAS, overweight children are showing up in doctors' offices with adult health problems such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure and Type II diabetes. Some show early-warning signs of heart disease. Nationally, hospital costs related to childhood obesity have more than tripled in the past 20 years to $127 million, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Obesity related disease cost the US economy more than $100 billion every year. Sixty percent of overweight five to ten year olds already have at least one risk factor for heart disease. The National Cholesterol Education Program recommends that health care providers consider screening all obese children over the age of two for elevated cholesterol levels. Habits that put adults at risk for CVD begin in the teens; and

WHEREAS, approximately 60% of all Americans age 18 and older report that they are physically inactive. It is estimated that approximately 35% of coronary heart disease mortality is due to physical inactivity. The significance of this relationship lies in the fact that coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and in New York State; and

WHEREAS, factors contributing to childhood obesity are:

· Environmental and family influence: excessive caloric intake; poor food choices; availability of high fat high sugar snacks and fast foods; busy families with less time to prepare nutritious meals; decrease physical activity/increase in sedentary activities such as watching television and playing video games; eating while watching TV; increase in soft drink consumption; increase in size of portions served.

· Decrease in Physical Activity/ Increase in Sedentary Lifestyle: fewer children enrolled in physical education classes. According to Catherine Macpherson, M.S., R.D., Illinois is the only state that requires P.E. be taken as a class through the 12th grade. According to the YRBS, in 1991 42% of 9-12th graders had daily PE classes compared with 27% in 1997. People are generally less active today in their leisure time. An average teenager has spent 3 years viewing television by the end of high school. According to Baylor College of Medicine, overweight children reported eating 50% of their dinner meals while watching television compared to just 35% by children who are not overweight. The average child sees 20,000 commercials a year, and many of these commercials are for unhealthy foods; and

WHEREAS, obesity has become one of the most significant public health problems in the United States today. In fact, in January 2002, the U.S. Surgeon General declared childhood obesity a national epidemic; and

WHEREAS, Without effective intervention, childhood obesity will dramatically impact all children’s futures, resulting in deep social, physical, and economic costs for an American society as a whole; Currently, childhood obesity is expected to result in the first generation of Americans whose life expectancy is shorter than that of their parents; and

WHEREAS, Overweight children are much more likely to develop severe health issues such as type 2 diabetes, a disease that, left untreated, leads to debilitating and life threatening complications such as cardiovascular disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, blindness, kidney failure, amputations, depression, and cancer, sleep apnea and asthma. It is predicted that 33% of US population can have irreversible type 2 diabetes. Additionally, being overweight often undermines children’s social and emotional well-being by increasing the likelihood that they will be stigmatized by their peers, thus lowering their self-esteem and interfering with their academic achievement and successful transition to adulthood; and

WHEREAS, children prefer unhealthy food instead of fruit and vegetable; every food to go such as cheeseburgers, fries, shakes, as well as the fat in pizza, Chinese food, Mexican food, Taco Bell, chips, “junk food” is a very high source of carbohydrate; building the habits necessary to tackle one of the most urgent health issues how to make healthy choices about the foods and how much to exercise, learning about and engaging in activities that promote healthy eating and greater physical activity are the most urgent targets for today life; and

WHEREAS, fourty years ago, fourty-eight percent of U.S. children biked or walked to school. Today, just twelve percent of children arrive at school by bike or on foot; students who bike to school are more physically fit than their peers, and they’re more mentally focused during the school day. During this period, U.S. childhood obesity tripled, while the number of children driven to school increased nearly 400 percent, also adding to debilitating morning and afternoon road congestion coast to coast. Twenty-five million U.S. children and adolescents, more than 33 percent, are now considered overweight or obese, or at risk of becoming so. Health care costs for childhood obesity are estimated at $14 billion each year, and Americans spend $150 billion a year treating obesity-related illnesses. Children who bike develop healthy routines to help them reach their full potential, and maintain those habits for life; and

WHEREAS, With television, computers, video games, cell phones, gadgets, appliances, and other electronic devices life today’s kids are leading a more sedentary lifestyle and gaining weight, which puts them at greater risk for health problems; children do not walked more, had less physical activity, do less home chores; and

WHEREAS, Regular physical activity provides significant benefits for the treatment of persons with chronic disease and disabilities; Research has shown that regular physical activity can prevent the development of cardiovascular disease, colon cancer, high blood pressure (U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, 1996), diabetes (Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group, 2002) and osteoporosis (U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, 2004); Regular physical activity also helps treat a variety of common illnesses, including arthritis (CDC, 1999), diabetes (American Diabetes Association, 2004) and cardiovascular disease (NIH, 2002), reducing the need for medications and improving overall quality of life; Physical inactivity and unhealthy eating are significant factors leading to overweight and obesity in children and adults; An estimated 365,000 deaths each year are attributed to these behaviors (Mokdad, 2005), and

WHEREAS, Regular physical activity during childhood and adolescence helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints; helps control weight, build lean muscle, and reduce fat; reduces feelings of depression and anxiety; promotes social well-being, as well as physical and mental health - which may help increase student’s capacity for learning. Children who are physically active have more stamina and energy. Physical inactivity has contributed to an unprecedented epidemic of childhood obesity in the United States. Children as young as 10 have shown signs of heart disease. Good eating habits and physical activity are the best ways to avoid heart disease. Physical activity does not refer only to organized sports. Physical activity is anything that gets your children moving! Opportunities and motivation to be physically active begin in the home. Children are more likely to be active if their parents and siblings are active and if their parents support the child’s participation in physical activities; and

WHEREAS, over one million young people in New York are considered obese, and many more are at risk of becoming obese as a result of poor eating and exercise habits; Studies link obesity with increased health problems and health care costs that escalate with age; In 2003, adult obesity related costs were estimated at nearly $6.1 billion in New York; Schools can play a key role in reversing the child obesity epidemic in New York; The New York State Department of Health estimates that one in four New Yorkers under the age of 18, or approximately 1.1 million young people, is obese; This childhood obesity crisis, in turn, is fueling a health care cost crisis, with an estimated annual $242 million in medical costs attributed to these children, which is putting even greater strain on the New York State budget; Approximately one quarter of New York adults report no leisure time physical activity in the past month; and

WHEREAS, the Common Council would like to provide a way for residents of City of Albany to get moving and reduce their risks for these potentially serious health problems, to prevent and reverse the tide of childhood obesity; and

WHEREAS, failure to act decisively on this issue kills almost 3 million adults each year; nations must understand that taxing unhealthy food, regulating harmful marketing practices and standing up to the food industry are crucial to eliminating preventable children diseases, especially diabetes and obesity; nations must be engaged stakeholders from across the food industry for commitments to changing unhealthy foods, which includes trimming fat, salt and sugar content in products, and building markets in food deserts; and

WHEREAS, recently the United States President Barack Obama marked the start of National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month of October with a proclamation calling on all Americans to "take action by learning about and engaging in activities that promote healthy eating and greater physical activity by all our Nation's children."

WHEREAS, the United States First Lady Michelle Obama created Let’s Move Cities and Towns program to help to combat obesity. The program includes a number of steps that a city must take in order to meet the goals.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Common Council of the City of Albany hereby creates a yearly “Get Fit Albany” award to encourage residents of the City of Albany to exercise. The criteria and judging of the award shall be determined by majority vote of the Common Council; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the City of Albany is hereby joining the United States’ First Lady Let’s Move Cities and Towns program and the “Get Fit Albany” Award is the first step.

Safe Night Out

2011-10-31T22:08:00.009-04:00

Safe Night Out. Law enforcement members and local volunteers were stationed on street corners across neighborhoods in the South End. It was devised as an alternative to kids ringing doorbells of strangers and putting themselves at risk.

<
District Attorney David Soares, Pastor Charlie Muller from Victory Church, and Albany Police are offered a safe alternative for trick or treaters.

Homeownership Assistance

2011-10-29T20:00:00.000-04:00

Searching for a home is an exciting adventure, and as a homeowner you are vital to the success and stabilization of your neighborhood. However, finding the right place at the right price, can be filled with many unexpected and frustrating challenges. Asking yourself what you can afford, the status of your credit, and where to shop for a mortgage loan, are important questions that can help make your dream of owning a home… a reality.

The Albany Community Development Agency (ACDA) is a centralized, "one-stop" facility that provides credit counseling, budget counseling, pre-purchase counseling, and other related services that will guide you through the tedious process of finding a home.

Take advantage of one of ACDA's Homeownership Programs that will make you a successful homeowner in the City of Albany.

Citywide Homebuyer Assistance Loan (Guidelines & Application)
The Choose Albany Citywide Homebuyer Assistance Loan was developed to provide financial assistance to applicants who are interested in purchasing a home in the City of Albany. If you are interested in purchasing a home, you may be eligible for a 10-year (or a 5-year term), 0% interest loan for 8% of the purchase price, up to $15,000, to be used towards the purchase of your new home.

There are no income restrictions and no geographic restrictions within the City. This loan can only be used for closing costs and down payment assistance. The purchase price of the home can not exceed. $200,000. The Citywide Homebuyer Assistance Loan is a first come, first serve program that will be available as long as there are funds available.

Capital City Employer Incentive (Guidelines & Application)
The Choose Albany Capital City Employer Incentive was developed to provide financial assistance to full-time employees of the City of Albany, the Albany Police Department or the Albany Fire Department who are interested in purchasing a home within the City.

This $5,000 forgivable loan is pro-rated at a rate of $1,000 annually over a period of five (5) years, during which time the applicant must maintain the purchased home as their primary residence. There are no income restrictions and no geographic restrictions within the City of Albany. This loan can only be used for closing costs and down payment assistance and the purchase price of the home can not exceed $200,000. The Capital City Employer Incentive is a first come, first serve program that will be available as long as there are funds available.

Other Homeownership Assistance Programs
Home Acquisition Program (HAP)
HAP provides up to $14,900 for down payment and closing costs assistance. It is a 5-year, interest free, deferred loan for a 1 - 4 unit, owner-occupied property within the City of Albany. There are income restrictions. You cannot currently own any other property.

Homeowner Assistance Program (HOAP)
HOAP helps low income homeowners do moderate rehabilitation of their owner-occupied homes (1 to 4 unit buildings) so they meet housing quality standards.

Senior Rehabilitation Program (SRP)
SRP helps low income owner occupants over the age of 62 with repairs to their homes that will eliminate any condition that poses a threat to the health safety and welfare of the occupants

Lead Based Paint Hazard Control Assistance Program (LEAD) shall be included with rehabilitation work for eligible owners who apply under any of the City's affordable housing programs. LEAD will reduce the hazards of lead based paint to meet federal standards.

Contact Information

Albany Community Development Agency
Faye Andrews
Director
200 Henry Johnson Blvd
Albany, NY 12210
Phone: (518) 434-5265
Fax: (518) 434-5242
andrewsf@ci.albany.ny.us

Choose Albany Programs
John Kisselback
Program Manager
21 Lodge Street
Albany, NY 12207
Phone: (518) 434-2532 x27
Fax: (518) 434-9846
kisselbackj@ci.albany.ny.us

Job Opportunities

2011-10-25T03:42:00.011-04:00

Click on the following link for a complete list of job opportunities and exam announcements with New York State
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/jobseeker/statejobs.cfm
www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements

Position Title: Media and Marketing Associate
Employment is with the Research Foundation of SUNY, a private, nonprofit, educational corporation that administers sponsored program activity for the University at Albany.

Description of Duties:

The College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE) of the University at Albany-SUNY (UAlbany) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Media and Marketing Associate. The Media and Marketing Associate will report to the Vice President for Marketing and Communications, and be responsible for the development, support and deployment of various communications’ programs, initiatives and vehicles to assist in augmenting CNSE’s global educational, research, development, technology deployment, and economic growth programs. This includes fostering relations with all critical stakeholders, including corporate partners, government and economic development agencies, and faculty, staff and students. The position works closely with the top officers of CNSE to ensure the CNSE media, marketing, and educational and community outreach messages are appropriately targeted, highly produced and effectively communicated.

The successful candidate should play an enabling role in maximizing positive exposure for CNSE to its target audiences through the development, support and use of creative and exceptional print, digital, online and video communications vehicles; by providing support for CNSE marketing and media relations activities, including trade shows, conferences and events; and in developing and executing creative ideas to support the generation and retention of funding and business opportunities for CNSE within the internationally competitive higher education and R&D communities.

The successful candidate will perform all relevant and required tasks that support CNSE’s overarching media relations and marketing outreach strategies. These tasks include, but are not restricted to, support for CNSE’s media relations activities through development, writing, editing and deployment of press releases, articles for CNSE’s website and related print and online publications, and items for social media outlets such as Facebook and Twitter, as well as interaction with online, print and broadcast journalists; support for CNSE’s marketing outreach activities through design, copywriting and photography for CNSE marketing materials, to include educational and promotional brochures, flyers, and related print and online publications; and support for CNSE’s educational, public and community outreach events and activities through creation and development of PowerPoint presentations, scripts, displays and other related materials; creative development and use of podcasts, videos, and multi-media segments to promote CNSE online and at special events, in presentations, and at conferences, tradeshows, workshops, symposia and other relevant forums; and providing logistical support for events and activities held at CNSE’s Albany NanoTech Complex, and in support of CNSE presence and programs at off-site venues.

Minimum Qualifications:
· A minimum of two years experience in public relations, journalism, marketing, or a related field;
· Associate’s degree in marketing, communications, journalism, English, or related field from a college or university accredited by the U.S. Dept. of Education or other internationally recognized accrediting institution; AAS degrees in physics, chemistry, engineering, biology or materials science will also be considered;
· Excellent written and oral communications skills;
· Demonstrated ability to write creative, clear and concise text for use across multiple media and marketing platforms, including print, online, digital and video;
· Demonstrated ability to be effective working within both large, multi-faceted organizations and entrepreneurial environments;
· Candidates must address in their application their abilities to work with culturally diverse populations.
Preferred Qualifications:

Five years experience in public relations, journalism, marketing, or a related field, with demonstrated expertise in writing creative, clear and concise text for use across multiple media and marketing platforms, including print, online, digital and video, and a background in media or media relations.

BA/BS degree in marketing, communications, journalism, English, or related field from a college or university accredited by the U.S. Dept. of Education or other internationally recognized accrediting institution; BA/BS degrees in physics, chemistry, engineering, biology or materials science will also be considered.

Notes: Position contingent on the availability of funding.

How To Apply
Persons interested in the above position should submit a resume, three work-related references, and letter of application, along with The Research Foundation of SUNY employment application to:

Terry Kremer
Search for Media and Marketing Associate
College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering
257 Fuller Rd.
Albany, NY 12203
CNSEHR@uamail.albany.edu

Download the The Research Foundation of SUNY employment application

Posting No: NANO-R11-29
Budget Title: Senior Administrative Assistant
Grade: N.8
******************************************************************
Position Title: Human Resources Associate

Description of Duties:

The Human Resources Associate will be physically located at CNSE’s Smart System Technology and Commercialization Center in the Rochester, NY area. This position will be part-time with the expectation of 32 hours of time commitment per week. The duties of this position will include, but not be limited to:
· Assist with all phases of recruitment to include writing and revising job descriptions and announcement of vacancies ensuring compliance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), position classification and compensation, job analysis, advertising, reference checking, interviewing, affirmative action compliance and reporting, ability to compile and track data and make recommendations, and any other personnel or recruitment related activities.
· Assist with record keeping requirements to establish and maintain employee/payroll records; checking and auditing timekeeping records for compliance with established standards, maintaining time and attendance records, and any other record keeping needed to ensure compliance and maintenance of data.
· Assist and facilitate performance review program and appraisals to ensure effectiveness, compliance and equity within the organization.
· Assist with employee counseling and disciplinary processes. Coach and counsel managers on the progressive disciplinary processes and required documentation.
· Ensure compliance with the Research Foundation of SUNY, New York State, and University policies and procedures.
· Research and answer HR related questions via verbal and written communication.
· Other administrative duties and special projects as assigned by the Associate Vice President for Human Resources and Special Projects.
Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management or a related field from a college or university accredited by US Department of Education or internationally recognized accrediting organization OR equivalent AND a minimum of two to three years of professionally responsible experience; demonstrated knowledge of the principles and practices of personnel administration; demonstrated proficiency using Microsoft Office; excellent oral and written communication skills; Strong attention to detail, analytical and research skills; applicants must address in their applications their abilities to work with a culturally diverse population.

Preferred Qualifications:

PHR

Special Notes: This position is contingent on the availability of funding.

How To Apply
Persons interested in the above position should submit a resume, three work-related references, and letter of application, along with The Research Foundation of SUNY employment application to:

Terry Kremer
Search for Human Resources Associate
College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering
257 Fuller Rd.
Albany, NY 12203
CNSEHR@uamail.albany.edu

Download the The Research Foundation of SUNY employment application

Posting No: NANO-R11-31
Budget Title: Human Resources Associate
Grade: E.3
******************************************************************
Position Title: Student Services Associate

Employment is with the Research Foundation of SUNY, a private, nonprofit, educational corporation that administers sponsored program activity for the University at Albany.
Description of Duties:
The Student Services Associate duties will include the administration of the student personnel related activities related to their Research Assistantship as Research Project Assistants (RPA), overseeing all stipends and benefits provided through sponsored funding administered by the Research Foundation of SUNY (RF). Currently, more than 100 CNSE students are engaged as RPAs and this number is expected to increase significantly. This position will support the CNSE educational paradigm which provides the opportunity for students to gain hands-on, unmatched experience working on state-of-the-art tools and equipment, in cleanrooms and laboratories that are without peer in the academic world, on research projects involving CNSE and its array of leading global corporate partners. This position is not intended to support the CNSE state-funded instructional and research functions.
Minimum Qualifications:
· A Bachelor's degree in educational or personnel administration, or related field from a college or university accredited by a USDOE or internationally recognized accrediting organization
· Proficiency with MS office suite
· 1-2 years experience in personnel administration.
· Familiarity with FERPA
· Demonstrated ability to project and handle matters with a highly professional and confidential demeanor
· Ability to communicate in a clear, concise, and highly accurate manner in all verbal and written interactions
· Acute attention to detail
· Demonstrated excellent written and spoken communication skills to include clear, concise, and highly accurate delivery
· Ability and desire to function in a fast paced, dynamic, and culturally diverse atmosphere
· Ability to employ appropriate discretion in all interactions and distinguish priorities
· Candidates must address in their application their ability to work with culturally diverse populations.
Preferred Qualifications:
The preferred candidate will possess hands-on experience with PeopleSoft integrated systems. A Master's Degree is also preferred.
Notes: Position contingent on the availability of funding.
How To Apply
Persons interested in the above position should submit a resume, three work-related references, and letter of application, along with The Research Foundation of SUNY employment application to:
Terry Kremer
Search for Student Services Associate
College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering
257 Fuller Rd.
Albany, NY 12203
CNSEHR@uamail.albany.edu

Download the The Research Foundation of SUNY employment application
Posting No: R10-34
Budget Title: Project Staff Assistant
Grade: E.99

Schenectady Community Action Program (SCAP)

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT
Salary: Negotiable

The Schenectady Community Action Program (SCAP) seeks to hire a full time Accountant. The Accountant will maintain general ledgers, prepare financial statements, reconcile cash accounts, perform various accounting functions and follow generally accepted accounting principles. B.S. in accounting with five (5) years experience or equivalent combination is required as well as demonstrated written and verbal communications skills, knowledge of GAAP and competency with computer spreadsheets and accounting software (FUND E-Z and Excel preferred) and be able to handle sensitive, confidential data in a professional manner. This is a great opportunity to be part of a growing and stable non-profit. Salary will depend on experience and will be consistent with SCAP’s approved salary scale. Please mail resume with cover letter to: SCAP, AD: SRACCT, 913 Albany Street, Schenectady, NY 12307. Deadline: January 20, 2012. EOE/AA.

PRESS RELEASE

2011-10-12T21:22:00.003-04:00

ALBANY MAYOR JENNINGS ANNOUNCES DETAILS FOR “MAYOR’S FALL DROP OFF” COMMUNITY EVENT

Collecting new winter clothing items for Albany kids!

Albany, NY – Mayor Jerry Jennings has announced the details of the 6th annual Mayor’s Fall Drop Off, a community-based program designed to collect new winter clothing items for needy school-aged children in Albany. The City of Albany is proud to partner with the Albany Devils Hockey organization, Lodge’s Department Store and Burke Companies in serving this worthy cause.

This year’s program will take place at 7:00 pm on Saturday, October 22, 2011, at the Albany Devils vs. the Adirondack Phantoms hockey game at the Times Union Center. Residents of the Capital Region are encouraged to “drop off” NEW mittens, gloves, hats, scarves, coats or cash donations at the game. Those donating either a new coat or a $20 cash donation will receive a voucher for free admission to a future Devils home game and will be entered to win a grand prize.

Those unable to attend the event may drop off winter clothing items or monetary donations at Lodge’s Department Store, Albany City Hall, or the offices of the Downtown, Central Avenue & Lark Street BIDs throughout the month of October. All monetary donations will be used to purchase new coats.

Longtime supporters of the Mayor’s Fall Drop Off, B. Lodge & Company and Burke Companies, also announced major contributions to the program. Lodge’s Department Store, located at 75 N. Pearl Street in downtown Albany, will offer significant discounts on clothing items purchased for the Fall Drop Off. Burke Companies will match all cash donations for the Fall Drop Off up to $5000.

Donations may also be mailed to:
Mayor’s Fall Drop Off

Albany City Hall, Room 402

Albany, NY 12207

Checks should be made payable to: Mayor’s Fall Drop Off/Lodge’s Department Store.

The 2011 Mayor's Fall Drop Off is presented by Mayor Jerry Jennings, The City of Albany, and Albany Devils Hockey with generous support from Burke Companies, Lodge's Department Store, Albany PAL, Albany Fire Department, Capitalize Albany Corp, Albany Broadcasting, Central BID, Downtown Albany BID, and Lark Street BID.

For more information, please contact the City of Albany Office of Special Events at 434-2032 or visit www.albanyevents.org.

Save SNUG

2011-10-07T20:22:00.002-04:00

Join Your Neighbors!

RALLY/PRESS CONFERENCE
To STOP GUN VIOLENCE
And SAVE Albany SNUG

Albany residents call on state leaders to restore funding to Albany SNUG.
SNUG is saving lives. In 2011 gun incidents have dropped 21% and the
number of shooting victims has dropped 29%. SNUG/CeaseFire’s public
health model is working and has brought hope to Albany residents,
especially in neighborhoods that are the epicenters of violence. SNUG saves
taxpayers’ money that would otherwise be spent on medical costs, public
safety, court costs, incarceration, and lost productivity.

138 Eagle Street--Near the Governor’s Mansion
Tuesday October 11, 2011 -- 11:30 a.m.
(please arrive by 11:15 a.m.)

REMEMBER: It’s up to You. You can make a difference just
by showing up! And help us to spread the word by telling
your family, friends, and neighbors.

Contact:
Cathy
Fahey
at
598-‐3242
or
cathyfahey7@yahoo.com

South End Neighborhood Association Meeting

2011-09-21T17:35:00.000-04:00

When: Tuesday, Sep 27, 2011

Time: 6pm – 8pm Eastern Time

Where: John A. Howe Library, 105 Schuyler Street

Meeting Agenda

Overview of the Capital South Campus Center including a question answer session.
The presenters will include representatives from Albany Housing Authority and Trinity Alliance. (6:15 to 7:00)

Falun Dafa meditation.
Presenter by Mrs. Leejun Taylor - Owner of Shanghai April Fine Chinese & Tibetan Furniture Company in Gloversville, NY. Practitioner of Falun Dafa meditation system and volunteer human rights worker. (7:00 7:30)

What is Falun Dafa?
Falun Dafa (also called Falun Gong, or just Dafa) is a high-level cultivation practice guided by the characteristics of the universe—Truthfulness, Benevolence, and Forbearance.
"Cultivation" means continuously striving to better harmonize oneself with these universal principles. “Practice” refers to the exercises – five sets of easy-to-learn gentle movements and meditation. Cultivating oneself is essential; practicing the exercises supplements the process.
Over time, the principles of Dafa unveil the deepest and most profound truths of the universe. Following the principles, practitioners of Falun Dafa are able to reach very high realms, enlightening to the true meanings of life, and finding the path of return to their origins and true selves.
While the exercises have deep inner meanings, they also help to reduce stress and can bring great improvements in health and fitness.
Cultivators of Falun Dafa strive to cultivate their mind-nature, or character and remove their attachments to become kinder, more honest and more patient people.

Police Athletic League

2011-09-17T07:27:00.005-04:00

FALL Programs & Upcoming Events

PAL After School Program
Starting September 12th, 2011
Monday – Friday, 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Located at the PAL Center @ VI
(844 Madison Ave.)

PAL Mentoring
Once per week for 90 minutes
(Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday)
Ongoing until June
Located at PAL Center

Movie with a PAL– Columbus Day
Monday October 10th @ 9:30 AM
Join us for a movie!
Located at the Madison Theatre
(1036 Madison Ave.)
Karate & Dance

Watch for these two new and exciting clubs coming soon to the PAL Center @ VI

Breakfast of Champions
October 19th from 8:00-9:30
Located at The Albany Crowne Plaza
Chair: Tom Brockley
Hosted by: Rodger Wyland,
WNYT Sports Anchor

Hannaford Capital
Holiday Lights in the Park
November 22, 2011 - January 2, 2012
Located at Washington Park

In School Activities
PAL will be continuing several clubs this Fall; look for Arts & Crafts Club, Chess Club, Cooking Club and Mar-tial Arts Club at your school.
And, Basketball starts in December.

For more information or an application,
please visit www.albanypal.org to print one.

Pepsi Refresh Challenge!
December 2011 don’t forget to vote for PAL
Two times a day!
Text and Facebook or
online daily!
www.refresheverything.com

Get Out to Vote Sept. 13

2011-09-13T06:54:00.002-04:00

If you’re not sure where you’re supposed to vote, you can call the Board of Elections at 487-5060 or check the list below.

Please exercise your right and VOTE.

PRIMARY ELECTION

POLLING PLACES 2011

CITY OF ALBANY

WARD 1

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Parks & Recreation Dept - 7 Hoffman Ave.

2 Parks & Recreation Dept - 7 Hoffman Ave.

3 Parks & Recreation Dept - 7 Hoffman Ave.

4 Parks & Recreation Dept - 7 Hoffman Ave.

5 Parks & Recreation Dept - 7 Hoffman Ave.

6 Parks & Recreation Dept - 7 Hoffman Ave.

7 TOAST – Lincoln Park

8 TOAST – Lincoln Park

9 TOAST – Lincoln Park

10 TOAST – Lincoln Park

WARD 2

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Creighton Storey Homes - 158 Third Ave.

2 Achievement Academy - 42 So. Dove St.

3 Salvation Army - 20 So. Ferry St.

4 Salvation Army - 20 So. Ferry St.

5 Salvation Army - 20 So. Ferry St.

6 Salvation Army - 20 So. Ferry St.

7 Salvation Army - 20 So. Ferry St.

8 Ezra Prentice Homes – 625 So. Pearl St.

9 Salvation Army - 20 So. Ferry St.

10 Ezra Prentice Homes – 625 So. Pearl St.

WARD 3

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Grace & Holy Innocents Church - 20 Robin St.

2 City Hall - 24 Eagle St.

3 Grace & Holy Innocents Church - 20 Robin St.

4 A.C.E.S. Orange St. Incubator - 255 Orange St.

5 A.C.E.S. Orange St. Incubator - 255 Orange St.

6 City Hall - 24 Eagle St.

7 A.C.E.S. Orange St. Incubator – 255 Orange St.

8 City Hall - 24 Eagle St.

9 City Hall - 24 Eagle St.

WARD 4

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 North Albany Post # 1610 - 35 North 1st St.

2 Housing Authority Community Room - 41 Jennings Dr.

3 Atria – 345 Northern Blvd.

4 Capital Woods Apts. (Community Room) - 200 Lark Dr.

5 Green Tech High School - 321 Northern Blvd.

6 Arbor Hill Community Center (Back Entrance to Gym) - 45 Lark St.

7 North Albany Post # 1610 - 35 North 1st Street

8 City Hall – 24 Eagle St.

9 Salvation Army – 20 So. Ferry St.

10 South Mall Towers – 101 So. Pearl St.

WARD 5

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Capital Green Apts. - 400 Central Ave.

2 Bleecker Stadium (Clinton Ave Entrance) – 775 Clinton Ave.

3 Green Tech High School - 321 Northern Blvd.

4 Green Tech High School - 321 Northern Blvd.

5 Green Tech High School - 321 Northern Blvd.

6 Arbor Hill Community Center (Back Entrance to Gym) – 45 Lark St.

7 Arbor Hill Community Center (Back Entrance to Gym) – 45 Lark St.

WARD 6

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Thurlow Terrace Apts. - 2 Thurlow Terr.

2 Sage College of Albany (Campus Center Gym) - 140 New Scotland Ave.

3 First Presbyterian Church – 362 State St.

4 First Presbyterian Church - 362 State St.

5 First Presbyterian Church - 362 State St.

6 First Presbyterian Church - 362 State St.

7 Robinson Square Apts. (Main Lobby) – 325 Hamilton St.

8 Electronic Body Arts – 351 Hudson Ave.

WARD 7

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Sage College of Albany (Campus Center Gym) - 140 New Scotland Ave.

2 Stephen & Harriet Myers Middle School - 100 Elbel Ct.

3 Sage College of Albany (Campus Center Gym) - 140 New Scotland Ave.

4 Albany School of Humanities (ASH) - 108 Whitehall Rd.

5 Sage College of Albany (Campus Center Gym) - 140 New Scotland Ave.

6 Albany School of Humanities (ASH) - 108 Whitehall Rd.

7 Albany School of Humanities (ASH) - 108 Whitehall Rd.

WARD 8

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Academy of the Holy Names - 1075 New Scotland Rd.

2 Academy of the Holy Names - 1075 New Scotland Rd.

3 Mater Christi School - 35 Hurst Ave.

4 Academy of the Holy Names - 1075 New Scotland Rd.

5 Stephen & Harriet Myers Middle School - 100 Elbel Ct.

6 Mater Christi School - 35 Hurst Ave.

7 Mater Christi School - 35 Hurst Ave.

8 Stephen & Harriet Myers Middle School - 100 Elbel Ct.

9 Stephen & Harriet Myers Middle School - 100 Elbel Ct.

WARD 9

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Mater Christi School - 35 Hurst Ave.

2 Ancient Order of Hibernians - 375 Ontario St.

3 John J. Bach Library - 455 New Scotland Ave.

4 New Scotland Elementary School - 369 New Scotland Ave.

5 New Scotland Elementary School - 369 New Scotland Ave.

6 Ancient Order of Hibernians – 375 Ontario St.

7 Ancient Order of Hibernians - 375 Ontario St.

8 Ancient Order of Hibernians - 375 Ontario St.

WARD 10

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Ancient Order of Hibernians – 375 Ontario St.

2 St. Rose Events and Athletics Center – 400 to 420 Western Ave.

3 St. Rose Events and Athletics Center – 400 to 420 Western Ave.

4 Pine Hills Library – 517 Western Ave.

5 Ancient Order of Hibernians - 375 Ontario St.

6 Ancient Order of Hibernians – 375 Ontario St.

7 Ancient Order of Hibernians – 375 Ontario St.

8 St. Vincent’s Center - 844 Madison Ave.

WARD 11

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Blessed Sacrament School - 605 Central Ave.

2 Blessed Sacrament School – 605 Central Ave.

3 Albany High School – 700 Washington Ave.

4 Townsend Homes – 45 Central Ave.

5 B’Nai B’Rith Apts. - 400 Hudson Ave.

6 First Presbyterian Church – 362 State St.

7 B’Nai B’Rith Apts. - 400 Hudson Ave.

8 Thurlow Terrace Apts. – 2 Thurlow Terr.

WARD 12

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Montessori Magnet School - 65 Tremont St.

2 Montessori Magnet School - 65 Tremont St.

3 Armory Garage – 64 Colvin Ave.

4 West View Apts. – 680 Central Ave.

5 Armory Garage – 64 Colvin Ave.

6 Blessed Sacrament School – 605 Central Ave.

7 Atria - 345 Northern Blvd.

8 Blessed Sacrament School - 605 Central Ave.

WARD 13

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 All Saints Parish Center – 16 Homestead St.

2 Eagle Point Elementary School - 1044 Western Ave.

3 All Saints Catholic Academy - 10 Rosemont St.

4 All Saints Catholic Academy - 10 Rosemont St.

5 All Saints Catholic Academy - 10 Rosemont St.

6 Pine Hills Library – 517 Western Ave.

7 Pine Hills Library – 517 Western Ave.

WARD 14

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Eagle Point Elementary School - 1044 Western Ave.

2 Ohav Shalom Apts. - 115 New Krumkill Rd.

3 Mater Christi School – 35 Hurst Ave.

4 All Saints Catholic Academy- 10 Rosemont St.

5 All Saints Catholic Academy -10 Rosemont St.

6 All Saints Catholic Academy -10 Rosemont St.

7 Pine Hills Library – 517 Western Ave.

8 All Saints Catholic Academy -10 Rosemont St.

WARD 15

DIST. POLLING PLACE

1 Teresian House - 200 Washington Ave. Ext.

2 Teresian House - 200 Washington Ave. Ext.

3 Teresian House - 200 Washington Ave. Ext.

4 New Covenant Presbyterian Church – 916 Western Ave.

5 Eagle Point Elementary School – 1044 Western Ave.

6 SUNY ALBANY - Colonial Quad (Cafeteria) - 1400 Washington Ave.

7 All Saints Parish Center – 16 Homestead St.

8 All Saints Parish Center - 16 Homestead St.

9 All Saints Parish Center - 16 Homestead St.

Labor for Your Neighbor: Help in the Hurricane Irene Recovery

2011-09-03T13:03:00.004-04:00

Help New York State residents recover from the devastating effects of Hurricane Irene.

"The Governor will kick off a volunteer effort, “Labor for your Neighbor” on Labor Day weekend to assist in local clean up efforts in the Schoharie Valley, Catskill and North Country Regions. This will entail a few hours on Sunday or Monday in the affected regions working to help those in flood-stricken areas to clear their homes of the mud and debris Irene left behind. "

To volunteer for this effort go to http://www.governor.ny.gov/form/laborforyourneighbor or

for more information click on the link below:

http://www.governor.ny.gov/laborforyourneighbor

National Night Out 2011

2011-08-09T22:23:00.000-04:00

To all National Night Out Sponsors, Community Partners, Vendors and Volunteers, thank you for the generous contributions of your time and resources. It is because of you that the South End National Night Out was once again a success.

https://skydrive.live.com/redir.aspx?cid=d7c935c43b80acc4&page=view&resid=D7C935C43B80ACC4!562

National Night Out 2011 Sponsors, Community Partners and Vendors

City of Albany
Albany Fire Department
ALLbany Online
AVillage
Capital District Habitat for Humanity
Community Hospice of Albany County
Coucilman Lester Freeman
Council President Carolyn McLaughlin
County Legislator Lucille McKnight
Congressman Paul Tonko, 21st District
Falun Dafa
Fidelis Care
Grand Street Community Arts
Jamalaye Auto Service
Mansion Neighborhood Association
Mayor Jerry Jennings
Mt. Calvary Baptist Church
McDonalds
New Horizons Christian Church
Nuvision Liturgical Dancers
Reese
Senior Whole Health
South End Improvement Corporation
South End Community Out Reach Center
South End Neighborhood Association
St. Johns Church of God in Christ
Victory Christian Church
Walls Temple AME Zion
Willard Dorsey, Sherman Motley,
Lenzy Motley, Rock
C& R Auto Sales
Jamalaye AutoService
New Life Church of Christ
Union Missionary Baptist Church
Damacus Community Church
Unification Church
Senior Whole Health

National Night Out - Tuesday August 2

2011-07-29T19:24:00.021-04:00

Time: 6PM to 8 PM
Location: Lincoln Park by Lincoln Square Apartments and the basketball courts.
Directions: Morton Avenue to Eagle Street

National Night Out Sponsors and Community Partners

City of Albany
Albany Fire Department
ALLbany Online
Senior Whole Health
Congressman Paul Tonko, 21st District
Grand Street Community Arts
Capital District Habitat for Humanity
South End Neighborhood Association
New Horizons Christian Church
St. Johns Church of God in Christ
Union Missionary Baptist Church
Damascus Christian Church
Unification Church
Walls Temple AME Zion
Mt. Calvary Baptist Church
New Life Church of Christ
Fajar Shabaaz
Senior Whole Health
Hon. Carolyn McLaughlin Pres Common Council
Community Hospice of Albany County
Fidelis Care
South End Community OutReach Center
Falun Dafa
New Horizons Christian Church
Jamalaye Auto Service

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Schedule of Events
Live DJ
Hula Hoop Workshop and Contest
Nail Painting
Bouncy Bounce
Music Mobile
Too Deep Entertainment
Nuvision Liturgical Dancers
Paper Crafts (Lotus Flower
Valuable information pertaining to your health
=================================
Free Hamburgers, Hotdogs, Ice Cream,
water, soda, watermelons

Free School Supplies for the children

Annual National Night Out.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011 from 6PM to 8PM

The South End Neighborhood Association will collaborate with SENA Partners and Sponsors to bring our community together to celebrate National Night Out.

This event is celebrated across America, it's purpose is a crime prevention and awareness program to heighten awareness in preventing crime in addition to fostering relationships between law enforcement and the community. This event allows people in the community to come out and enjoy an evening filled with entertainment, fun activities and food.

If you would like to participate in this event please contact a member of the National Night Out Committee or send an email to southendneighborhoodassociation@hotmail.com

Music Mobile and National Night Out

2011-07-27T01:35:00.010-04:00

The new Music Mobile van will be debuted on Thursday, July 28th at 10:00 am at Sheridan Playground in Albany

-----

Save the date for Annual National Night Out.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011 from 6PM to 8PM

The South End Neighborhood Association will collaborate with SENA Partners and Sponsors to bring our community together to celebrate National Night Out.

This event is celebrated across America, it's purpose is a crime prevention and awareness program to heighten awareness in preventing crime in addition to fostering relationships with between law enforcement and the community. This event allows people in the community to come out and enjoy an evening filled with entertainment, fun activities and food.

If you would like to participate in this event please contact a member of the National Night Out Committee or send an email to southendneighborhoodassociation@hotmail.com

July - Neighborhood Meeting

2011-07-21T23:57:00.008-04:00

Neighborhood Association Meeting

Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

LOCATION: John A. Howe Library
Lage Meeting Room on Lower Level
(Please use Broad Street entrance if you arrive after 6:00 pm)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Meeting called to order

Prayer (6:05-6:10)

Updates: National Night Out, Libary Budget , Albany 2030

AVillage Updates

Questions / Issues

Updates from SENA Partners

UPCOMING EVENTS

National Night Out (August 2)
AVillage's South-End Farmers Market ( Every Saturday 2-6)
New Life Church of Christ Vacation Bible School August 22-26

Summer Events and Camps

2011-07-09T12:38:00.005-04:00

Albany Police Athletic League Summer Camps (click here to learn more)

ALBANY PAL is hosting several summer camp day locations at Ezra Prentiss and Creighton Storey in the South End, Ida Yarborough in Arbor Hill and the Pal Center at VI in the Pine Hills for more info interested parents can contact PAL at 518-435-0392 or online at http://www.albanypal.org/

Free
3rd annual ‘MAYOR’S HEALTH CHECK DAY”, to be held Saturday, July 9th from 10 AM until 2 PM at all Albany Firehouses

Saturday, July 9 -- at the Delaware Branch Library with SummerFest.

APL celebrates summer -- and summer reading fun -- on Saturday, July 9, from 1 to 3 pm at the Delaware Branch (331 Delaware Avenue). This FREE outdoor party for the whole family features bounce houses, activities, games, music, dancing, magic, giveaways, and snacks.

SummerFest is the major event in the library's Summer Reading Program, which encourages literacy by rewarding kids for reading. The party gives children a chance to sign up for the Summer Reading Program and sample the activities and books available at the library.

The July 9 SummerFest activities include:
+ A giant bounce activity center and a kiddie bounce house
+ Roving magic show by Mr. Magicman
+ Special hip hop dance performance by students from Albany Salsa (at 2 pm)
+ Games and activities

+ Snow cones and popcorn
+ Summer snacks provided by Price Chopper

+ Special giveaways for people who sign up for the Summer Reading Program

The SummerFest party is so big that the library is closing all branches -- except for Delaware and the Main Library (161 Washington Avenue) -- on Saturday, July 9. The Delaware Avenue neighborhood is also participating in the July 9 festivities with special sales at many businesses, food and activity booths, and a garage sale.

APL's Summer Reading Program runs from June 27 to August 15. Kids and teens register and record their reading online or at any APL library. For every week they read, participants are eligible for prizes. More than 100 special events and activities are planned at the library's seven locations during the seven week program.

This year's Summer Reading Program is sponsored in part by Price Chopper, Friends of Albany Public Library, Friendly's, and Stewart's Shops.

Vote on Revised Library Budget July 19

APL has a new proposed 2012 budget that cuts 10.3 percent from the previous proposed budget that was narrowly defeated by voters in May. The new proposed spending plan decreases the budget while maintaining hours and services.
The revised budget goes to the voters on Tuesday, July 19. Polls will be open from 7 am until 9 pm that day. Voting will take place at all 18 polling locations that are traditionally used for library and school district budget votes.

If approved by voters on July 19:
+ The revised budget would cost the owner of a $150,000 home an extra $28.05 in 2012. This is $19.33 less than the previous proposed plan.

+ The estimated homestead library tax for 2012 would be $1.45 per $1,000 of assessed value. This is 13 cents lower than the previous proposed tax rate.

On July 19, voters will be asked to cast ballots on the proposed 2012 operating budget of $6,266,169, which is $717,802 less than the previous plan.

For more information on the budget, visit www.albanypubliclibrary.org/vote

Events You don't want to miss

2011-05-30T08:56:00.005-04:00

Project Unveiling & Groundbreaking Celebration

June 8, 2011 at 11:00am

Join Capital District Habitat for Humanity
next major building project of sixteen row houses in the South End of Albany on Alexander Street,(Between Clinton & Elizabeth Street). This endeavor will create broad transformational change in a neighborhood in need of revitalization and for families in need of safe, affordable, decent housing.

Be part of this exciting event!

RSVP ONLINE
www.CapitalDistrictHabitat.org/Event

ALBANY ONLINE

Albany FreeNet is a free high-speed Wi-Fi internet service provided in the City of Albany by Tech Valley Communications, a privately owned telecommunications company.

· The Universal Broadband Access Grant program also provides for:
o Site-based digital literacy classes at designated “Community Technology Centers” (CTC) including the Albany Public Library Main Branch (161 Washington Avenue) and Department of Youth & Workforce Services (175 Central Avenue).

o Site based “Metrix” online job training orientation & skill assessments at CTCs.
o Free 90-day Metrix e-learning licenses.

o Community services registry at www.ALLbanyOnline.com
o Low cost Wi-Fi enabled desktop computer systems.

· Albany FreeNet and the services above are offered as part of ALLbany Online, an ongoing collaboration between private, municipal and non-profit agencies to increase broadband access, usability and utility in the City of Albany.

· Albany FreeNet is comprised of many small but powerful radios that broadcast a WiFi signal. WiFi is the dominant global standard for wireless Ethernet. One of the biggest benefits of Wi-Fi is that it's already built into many laptops, smart phones and other devices.

· Any WiFi enabled device with an Internet browser can connect to the Internet via Albany FreeNet.

· Albany FreeNet is available 24/7 at speeds up to 1.5Mbps x 1Mbps. There is no limit on how long Albany FreeNet can be used, but there is a 200MB daily data limit. A user can sign on as many times as they like anytime between 12am and 11:59pm each day until their total data usage (downloads and uploads) for that day reaches 200MB.

*Coverage as of June 2010. Exact coverage areas may vary.

Free high-speed Wi-Fi internet service in the City of Albany

2011-05-30T08:49:00.003-04:00

ABOUT ALLBANY ONLINE

· Albany FreeNet is a free high-speed Wi-Fi internet service provided in the City of Albany by Tech Valley Communications, a privately owned telecommunications company.

· In August 2009, Tech Valley Communications received a Universal Broadband Access Grant from New York State to expand Albany FreeNet in the Arbor Hill, West Hill, South End and Delaware Avenue neighborhoods where Internet adoption is lowest.

· The Universal Broadband Access Grant program also provides for:
o Site-based digital literacy classes at designated “Community Technology Centers” (CTC) including the Albany Public Library Main Branch (161 Washington Avenue) and Department of Youth & Workforce Services (175 Central Avenue).
o Site based “Metrix” online job training orientation & skill assessments at CTCs.
o Free 90-day Metrix e-learning licenses.
o Community services registry at www.ALLbanyOnline.com
o Low cost Wi-Fi enabled desktop computer systems.

· Albany FreeNet and the services above are offered as part of ALLbany Online, an ongoing collaboration between private, municipal and non-profit agencies to increase broadband access, usability and utility in the City of Albany.

· Albany FreeNet is comprised of many small but powerful radios that broadcast a WiFi signal. WiFi is the dominant global standard for wireless Ethernet. One of the biggest benefits of Wi-Fi is that it's already built into many laptops, smart phones and other devices.

· Any WiFi enabled device with an Internet browser can connect to the Internet via Albany FreeNet.

· Albany FreeNet is available 24/7 at speeds up to 1.5Mbps x 1Mbps. There is no limit on how long Albany FreeNet can be used, but there is a 200MB daily data limit. A user can sign on as many times as they like anytime between 12am and 11:59pm each day until their total data usage (downloads and uploads) for that day reaches 200MB.

· There were 73,000 user sessions on Albany FreeNet for the three-month period January 2011 to April 2011, with an average session length of 3.6 hours.

*Coverage as of June 2010. Exact coverage areas may vary.

Earth Day and Neighborhood Cleanup

2011-05-26T01:46:00.005-04:00

Review and Challenge Property Assessments

2011-05-03T00:21:00.002-04:00

This is a reminder that the annual period to review and challenge property assessments is May 1 - 24. Attached is the City Assessor's Legal Notice with additional information on office hours and availability of the assessment rolls.

LEGAL NOTICE
DEPARTMENT OF ASSESSMENT AND TAXATION
ALBANY, NEW YORK

NOTICE is hereby given that, pursuant to section 506 & 526 of the New
York State Real Property Tax Law, the undersigned Commissioner of the Department of
Assessment and Taxation, City of Albany New York has completed the Tentative
Assessment roll for the City of Albany.

This assessment roll will be available for public
inspection by any person at the Department of Assessment and Taxation, Room 302 City
Hall, Eagle Street, Albany, New York Commencing May 1,201 1 and continuing through
May 24TH, 201 1 excluding Sundays. Office hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Daily and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:OO noon.

The assessment, inventory and sales data can also be reviewed on the City's web
site located at www.albanyny.org.

Wednesday May 4th, 20 1 1

..#.,.,. Saturday May 7th, 201 1

Wednesday May 1 1 th, 20 1 1

Saturday May 14th, 20 1 1

Wednesday May 18th, 201 1

- katurday May 21st, 201 1

The undersigned Assessor will be in attendance with such tentative assessment

roll in the Office of Assessment & Taxation in the City Hall Room 302.

Complaint forms and a publication containing procedures for contesting an

assessment are available at the Office of Assessment & Taxation Room 302 in City Hall.

It is a prerequisite to review an assessment that the official complaint forms be used and

that said forms be filed with the undersigned or the Board of Assessment Review on or

before May 24th, 20 1 1.

The Board of Assessment Review will meet on Tuesday, May 24th, 201 1,

between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1 :00p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Common

Council Chambers in City Hall Eagle Street Albany, New York, to hear complaints in

relation to assessments.

DATED May lSt, 201 1 KEITH MCDONALD COMMISSIONER

Department of Assessment & Taxation

City of Albany, New York

South End Earth Day and Housing Fair

2011-04-29T07:04:00.014-04:00

2011 Capital Region Housing Fair Saturday, April 30th

Thinking about buying your first home? Visit the 2011 Capital Region Housing Fair. Learn about grant and loan programs for first time buyers and owners. Homeowners can receive a private consultation about existing mortgages. Bring a photo ID and obtain a free credit report. Plenty of opportunities to get your questions answered at information tables and workshops. The Housing Fair will be held on Saturday, April 30th from 10 am to 2 pm at the Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Avenue, Albany. The fair is free and open to the public. Details at www.ahphome.org or call 434-1730.

Albany Public Library
161 Washington Ave., Albany
Saturday, April 30th
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Free and open to the public

Agenda

2011-04-23T15:26:00.009-04:00

Neighborhood Association Meeting

Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

LOCATION: John A. Howe Library
Lage Meeting Room on Lower Level
(Please use Broad Street entrance if you arrive after 6:00 pm)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Meeting called to order
Prayer and Comments - Rev. Sebastian Huemer (6:05-6:20)

Lirbrary Representative - Libary Budget and May vote (6:20 - 6:40)

Travis & Rebecca Streetlight Gardens (6:40 - 6:55)

Time Banking and Earth Day Events (7:00-7:15)

AVillage - Bath House Update, Summer Youth Employment (7:15-7:30)

Questions / Issues

Updates from SENA Partners

UPCOMING EVENTS

Library Budget Vote
School Budget Vote
Neighborhood Spring Cleanup May 9
Earth Day April 30
Time Bank Meeting May

Spring Cleanup Schedule

2011-04-23T09:33:00.003-04:00

Neighborhood Spring Cleanup Schedule
by: DGS

The City of Albany’s Household Spring Cleanup program provides city residents with an opportunity to dispose of their excessive household trash. Only residents who live in residential dwellings with four (4) or less units may participate in this program. Trash should be placed curbside the evening prior to your scheduled spring cleanup day. The schedule is as follows:

If your normal collection day is Monday and you live in Sheridan Hollow, Arbor Hill or North Albany, your spring cleanup is on Monday, May 2, 2011.

If your normal collection day is Monday and you live in the South End, South of Morton Avenue or East of Delaware Avenue, your spring cleanup is on Monday, May 9, 2011.

If your normal collection day is Tuesday your Spring Cleanup day is on Tuesday, April 19, 2011.

If your normal collection day is Wednesday and you live between the boundaries of Washington Avenue to Clinton Avenue and Manning Blvd. to Henry Johnson Blvd., your spring cleanup is on Wednesday, May 18, 2011.

If your normal collection day is Wednesday and you live between the boundaries of Madison Avenue to New Scotland Avenue and Delaware Avenue to Manning Blvd., your spring cleanup is on
Wednesday, May 25, 2011.

If your normal collection day is Wednesday and you live between the boundaries of Washington Avenue to Madison Avenue from Manning Blvd to Lake Avenue, your spring cleanup is on Wednesday, June 1, 2011.

If your normal collection day is Thursday your spring cleanup day is on Thursday, April 28, 2011.

If your normal collection day is Friday and you live on the south side of Central Avenue (from Partridge St. to Yarbrough Ave.), North of Western Avenue, your spring cleanup is on
Friday, May 13, 2011.

If your normal collection day is Friday and you live between Henry Johnson Blvd. and Grant Ave on the north side of Clinton Ave. including Shaker Road and St. Agnes Drive or you live on the South side of Clinton Avenue from Henry Johnson Blvd. to North Pearl Street, your spring cleanup is on
Friday, May 20, 2011.

Trash should be placed curbside, after 7p.m., the evening prior to your scheduled spring cleanup day. Hazardous Waste is never accepted curbside even on spring cleanup days. Please call the Department of General Services at 434-CITY with any questions regarding the Household Spring Cleanup.

Summer Youth Employment

2011-03-23T22:16:00.006-04:00

The City of Albany is currently accepting applications for the Mayor's 2011 Summer Youth Employment Program. If you are between the ages of 14 and 18, you are eligible to work in this program. This program will commence on Monday, July 11th, 2011 through Friday, August 5th, 2011. Applications must be postmarked by April 1, 2011. For more information, please click here.

Mayor Gerald D. Jennings and the City of Albany’s Office of Equal Employment Opportunity are proud to announce the CADET Program.

Applicants that apply for the Summer Youth Employment Program and are age 16 and 17 years old by July 1, 2011, may also apply for the CADET Program with the Albany Police Department or the Department of Fire, Emergency & Building Services. To download an application or for more information, please click here.

http://www.albanyny.org/newsarticles/11-02-28/mayor_s_2011_summer_youth_employment_program.aspx

Mayor Gerald D. Jennings and the City of Albany’s Office of Equal
Employment Opportunity is proud to announce the CADET
program. Participants for the City of Albany Departmental
Experiential Training program will have training in the Albany
Police Department or the Department of Fire, Emergency &
Building Services.

For Additional information, please call 518-434-5296.
CADET Program
City of Albany

Eligibility/ Requirements
Participants for this program are required to meet the following qualifications:
♦ Age 16-17 by July 1, 2011
♦ Working Papers
♦ Birth Certificate
♦ Social Security Card
♦ City of Albany Resident

Individuals participating in this program will gain the following experience:
DEPARTMENT OF FIRE, EMERGENCY & BUILDING SERVICES
♦ Ride-a-long on EMS calls.
♦ CPR Training
♦ Drills Training
♦ Fire House Living
♦ Fire Equipment Maintenance
ALBANY POLICE DEPARTMENT
♦ Ride-a-long on Police Patrols
♦ CPR Training
♦ Forensics
♦ Communications
♦ Criminal Investigations Unit
♦ Mounted Unit
♦ Fingerprinting
♦ Court Procedures
♦ Traffic Safety
CITY OF ALBANY
OFFICE OF EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
ALBANY FIRE, EMERGENCY AND BUILDING SERVICES AND POLICE
DEPARTMENT EXPERIENTIAL
FOR SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT
If you are interested in being considered for the City’s Summer Youth Employment Experiential
Training Program in the Albany Police Department or the Department of Fire, Emergency &
Building Services, please provide the following information:
Name: ________________________________________
Address: ________________________________________
City/State/Zip: ________________________________________
Telephone: ________________________________________
Parent’s Telephone: ________________________________________
Date of Birth: ________________________________________
Age: ________________________________________
SS# (last 4 digits): XXX-XX-________________________________
Please indicate choice of Experiential:
_____ Albany Police Department
_____ Department of Fire, Emergency & Building Services
In 100 words or less, please explain why you are interested in participating in this program and
what you feel you will gain from the opportunity (attach additional sheets if necessary):
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
The deadline for submitting your application is Wednesday, April 13, 2011. If you have any
questions, contact Office of Equal Employment Opportunity at 434-5296. Mail completed
applications to:
City of Albany
Administrative Services; Rm 301
Office of Equal Employment Opportunity
Albany, New York 12207
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________

March 2011 Agenda

2011-03-21T20:33:00.004-04:00

Neighborhood Association Meeting

Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

LOCATION: John A. Howe Library
Lage Meeting Room on Lower Level
(Please use Broad Street entrance if you arrive after 6:00 pm)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Open Meeting

Earth Day Event Planning

National Night Out

Questions / Issues
(6:00 - 6:30)

Updates from SENA Partners
(6:30-6:45)

Introduction for Neighborhood Watch

(6:45-8:00)

UPCOMING EVENTS
----------------------------

Jobs - Housing - Education

2011-03-08T21:27:00.010-05:00

How to GET A JOB
in the
Construction Business

FREE
WORKSHOP

Attend this FREE WORKSHOP and get
ANSWERS to your questions and ADVICE from
construction company leaders & union representatives

Do you want a construction job?

How do you find job openings?
What skills do you need?

How do you get training?

March 14 Mon
5-7 p.m.
Arbor Hill/West Hill Branch
148 Henry Johnson Boulevard

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

TIRED OF SUB-STANDARD HOUSING?

DO YOU WANT TO OWN YOUR OWN HOME?

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
IS LOOKING FOR YOU!!!!!!

Come to the Orientation Session listed below, and learn how you and your family can own a new, energy-efficient home in Albany’s Historic South End.

ORIENTATION SESSION

Saturday, March 12, 2011
Giffen Elementary School
274 South Pearl Street, Albany
Registration: 9:30am to 10:00am
Presentation: 10:00am to 11:00am
Question/Answer Sessions: 11:00am to Noon

DAY CARE PROVIDED BY CAPITAL CITY RESCUE MISSION ON GIFFEN ELEMENTARY PREMISES: Children 4 years of age and older.

You MUST attend this orientation session in order to receive an application. There is no other way to become eligible for a Habitat home.

Capital District Habitat for Humanity 454 N. Pearl St. Albany, NY 12204
518.462.2993

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Reshaping Our (Failing) High School

CALLING ALL PARENTS, STUDENTS, AND CONCERNED CITIZENS
IF YOU CARE ABOUT OUR CHILDREN’S FUTURE
Please join us for a forum on
The Restructuring of Albany High School
A Presentation by Dr. David McCalla and the Restructuring Team
Question and Answer Period will follow
Tuesday, March 15 - 6:30 PM
Union Baptist Church – Three Morton Avenue
Sponsored by Christian Education Ministry of Union Baptist Church
Co-Sponsored by: Albany NAACP
and
Albany Family Education Alliance
Babysitting Available – Refreshments will be served
Anne Pope Director of Christian Education Rev. Victor E. Covington Pastor

Times Union Articles Related to CDTA Bus Route

2011-03-07T07:01:00.007-05:00

.
A Morton Avenue bus will roll in the South End
Neighborhood group's persistence pays off; CDTA to launch route in August

By PAUL GRONDAHL Staff Writer
Updated 08:28 p.m., Thursday, February 24, 2011
. Lori Van Buren / Times Union

Willie White, executive director of a Village at Trinity Institution, talks about a petition for getting bus service on Morton Avenue on October 27, 2010. (Lori Van Buren) Lori Van Buren / Times Union Willie White, executive director of a.....

Page 1 of 1
ALBANY -- After two years of leaflets, petitions, neighborhood meetings, lobbying politicians and twice crashing CDTA's board meeting, residents of the South End have been assured that they'll get their long-awaited Morton Avenue bus.

"We've been on Cloud 9 since we got word. We're going to have a party," said Willie White, executive director of AVillage Inc.

"We're definitely going to put a bus on Morton Avenue," said CDTA spokeswoman Margo Janack. "They put forward a very strong, consolidated effort."

White and his grass-roots neighborhood organization led a full-court press to add bus service on the steep, milelong hill from South Pearl Street past Lincoln Park and up to Delaware Avenue and Albany Medical Center Hospital.

Longtime residents of Morton Avenue have complained in a sporadic and disorganized way for two decades about not having a bus in a low-income neighborhood where car ownership is low. People have resorted to stitching together a three- or four-transfer patchwork of bus routes across downtown that can take more than one hour to traverse the daunting hill up to Albany Med.

Mostly, South Enders have suffered in silence, grumbling among themselves about the byproduct of being poor and disenfranchised, as they trudged up the steep grade laden with groceries, pushing strollers or wheelchairs over snowbanks and through inclement weather in all seasons.

"The bus has been needed for a long time," said Benna Eldridge, director of the family and neighborhood resource center of Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region. "I heard a lot of people saying they couldn't get to their treatments at Albany Med or couldn't get to jobs because we don't have a bus."

The culmination of the group's quest came on Tuesday, when White and his colleagues camped out once again at the offices of the Capital District Transportation Authority. "You've got your bus," executive director Carm Basile told them, worn down by their relentless pressure.

While White had hoped that bus service would start in the spring, it likely will not begin until August when the first phase of a county-wide restructuring of bus routes is put in place, Janack said.

"We've done ridership analysis and surveyed customers and we found strong support for a Morton Avenue bus," Janack said. "The issue now is taking time to make sure it connects with our system as a whole."

"This took a lot of effort by a lot of people, but we stood up for something we believed in," White said. "This is a victory for the South End. When we join forces as a community, the sky's the limit."

Reach Paul Grondahl at 454-5623 or pgrondahl@timesunion.com.

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

South End residents seek a lift
Community asks CDTA for a bus route on Morton Avenue

By PAUL GRONDAHL Staff Writer
Published 12:00 a.m., Friday, October 29, 2010

Read more: http://www.timesunion.com/default/article/South-End-residents-seek-a-lift-735643.php#ixzz1Fumyk9O0

ALBANY -- For the poor, elderly and infirm residents of the South End, the long, steep grade of Morton Avenue is their heartbreak hill.

No regular bus transports them up the beast they call simply "the hill." The incline continues to climb in a heart-pounding ascent along the length of Lincoln Park all the way up to Delaware Avenue before leveling out.

Many folks in this low-income neighborhood don't own a car, lack the strength to walk the hill or can't afford a $15 cab fare to take them to and from Albany Medical Center Hospital, Stratton VA Medical Center and St. Peter's Hospital for doctor's visits or employment.

More than 1,300 South End residents signed a petition calling for bus service up Morton Avenue. The effort was organized by AVillage, Inc., a South End grass-roots organization. Residents have met with officials of the Capital District Transportation Authority and are increasing pressure in the hopes of finally getting a bus.

"We've been asking for a bus up Morton Avenue for 20 years and all we've gotten is lip service from CDTA," said Willie White, executive director of AVillage, Inc. and a 40-year resident of Morton Avenue. "This time, we're not going to give up. We'll keep fighting until we get that bus."

Bessie E. Thompson, 74, a diabetic who had surgeries on a gangrenous leg and foot, lives in a Morton Avenue apartment tower and uses a motorized wheelchair.

"It's really horrible trying to get up that hill," she said. She described having to take her chances riding in the street between moving vehicles and parked cars with her electric wheelchair because she can't make it up and down curbs and the sidewalk is heaved, broken and impassable in places.

In winter, the retired home health aide is a virtual prisoner of her apartment because plows push the snow into high banks and often the sidewalk has not been cleared.

"Many of us desperately need a bus on Morton Avenue," said Thompson, who regularly rides the bus. But without a Morton Avenue route, she's forced to try to cobble together a convoluted three-transfer patchwork of available buses that could take more than 90 minutes each way to traverse the 1.3 miles to Albany Med.

"We hear them loud and clear and we've been working with them," said CDTA spokeswoman Margo Janack. Any new bus route has to fit into a comprehensive restructuring that will take at least until spring after public meetings, analysis and number-crunching.

A bus route that covered a portion of Morton Avenue several years ago was tried briefly, but ridership was low and it was discontinued, Janack said.

"From the outside, it looks like Morton Avenue service might make sense," Janack said. "We've seen strong support for a bus route up Morton Avenue, but we want to make sure we put in a service that meets the community's needs and fits into the larger system."

"I've been to 11 presentations we've made to CDTA, they've always said no and it's gotten very frustrating," said Benna Eldridge, director of the family and neighborhood resource center of Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region, formerly Trinity Institution.

She hears a stream of hardship cases from South End folks who can't get up Morton Avenue and can't bear the thought of winter coming without a resolution. "We've done enough talking about this problem," she said. "We need a bus up the hill for these people."

South End residents praised CDTA for listening to their concerns and extending the No. 7 bus route a few years ago so it travels to and from South Pearl Street to the Glenmont Wal-Mart. Both sides agree that route has been successful, but when neighbors return laden with bags, the bus stops on South Pearl Street and they must face the hill on foot.

"Why couldn't the No. 7 bus or even the No. 8 just turn up Morton and go up the hill? It seems so simple," said Patricia Johnson, 54, of Green Street. A herniated disc and spine surgery left her needing the use of an electric scooter.

"We need that bus now. We can't wait another winter," she said.

"That hill is so steep, I go up a block and have to stop because I can't breathe," said Tammy Easter, 47, of Morton Avenue, who is asthmatic. She worked in medical billing and is currently unemployed. She has no car and can't afford cab fare for medical treatment. She traverses several blocks off Morton, like an urban mountain climber, adding several blocks to her long trek in search of flatter terrain.

"I wish I knew why they won't give us a bus up the hill," she said. "We're tired of being silent about the problem."

Ardra Wilson, 32, an unemployed construction worker, lives off North Pearl Street and often accompanies her 16-year-old son to doctor's visits up the hill. "I'm like a lot of people who can't find work and I don't have $15 for cab fare," she said. "I'm younger and can walk it if I have to, but watching the senior citizens struggling up the hill taking their grandkids to and from school is terrible."

Clara Phillips, 67, a diabetic who lives on Delaware Street, prefers to walk alongside Thompson, her wheelchair-bound friend, to run interference with traffic.

"I start up the hill, have to stop to rest and set down my bags every few minutes," said Phillips, a retired Albany Med dietary aide. "And then I'm trying to watch out for Miss Bessie in her wheelchair out in the road with cars whizzing by. I'm praying for that bus. I don't think the good Lord will let us down."

Read more: http://www.timesunion.com/default/article/South-End-residents-seek-a-lift-735643.php#ixzz1FumYUNfT

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

http://www.timesunion.com/news/media/Bus-up-Morton-Ave-hill-urged-4330.php

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

http://www.timesunion.com/default/article/CDTA-route-would-serve-South-End-639937.php

CDTA route would serve South End
Published 12:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Page 1 of 1
The Aug. 26 story, "South End pleads for CDTA route" reported that South End residents implored the Capital District Transportation Authority to offer bus service up Morton Avenue to Albany Medical Center and other nearby medical facilities.

While the story related compelling anecdotes, it is important for the community to know that this request is backed by solid evidence that the route would be well used.

AVillage, Inc., joined by Westminster Presbyterian Church, Trinity Institution-Homer Perkins Center, Inc., and Grand Street Community Arts, presented the CDTA board not only with a petition signed by more than 1,200 people, but also with the results of a transportation questionnaire.

Our transportation consultant, Monique Wahba, a former Albany city planner, gave the CDTA staff a breakdown of the survey. It showed that: 1. There is a large demand for this bus route, not only from South End residents but also from residents of other neighborhoods and outlying communities. 2. The bus would be used for a variety of purposes, including jobs, medical appointments, shopping and transfers to other buses. 3. It would be used frequently, the majority of respondents indicating two to five times a week.

Further, the group presented 14 support letters from prominent individuals and organizations, including Albany Medical Center, Common Council members, the Albany Housing Authority, neighborhood associations, not-for-profits, businesses, and churches.

We are pleased to receive CDTA's commitment to work on this issue and expect meetings to begin shortly.

Willie White

President

AVillage, Inc.

Albany

avillage5@aol.com

Read more: http://www.timesunion.com/opinion/article/CDTA-route-would-serve-South-End-639937.php#ixzz1FuprMUZH

======

http://blog.timesunion.com/gettingthere/what-cdta-routes-should-be-added-cut/1035/

What CDTA routes should be added, cut?August 26, 2010 at 2:16 pm by Tim O'Brien

South End residents came to the Capital District Transportation Authority Wednesday to plead for a bus up Morton Avenue.

You can read the story here.

Carm Basile, the leader of the CDTA, said the agency is in the midst of studying all its routes in Albany and could make changes.

Where would you like to see buses added? What bus routes do you think are underused and could be cut?

Essay Contest

2011-02-24T23:05:00.012-05:00

KNOW WHEN TO SAY NO

Essay Contest Sponsored by Stewart's Shop

RULES:

•Contest is open to students in grades 6 – 8 who reside in New York’s Capital Region.
•Maximum of 200 words, typewritten.
•Participants must write their essay themselves, but may get help from teachers, parents, or friends in the form of ideas.

INSTRUCTIONS:

•Essays must support the theme “Know When to Say No.” Students should describe a time when they faced peer pressure and how they overcame the situation. How did they “know when to say no”? What advice can they give to other kids who may face the same issue?
•The essay should not exceed 200 words and should be typewritten.
•All submissions must include an Entry Form**

•Entries may be postmarked February 28, 2011 and mailed to the following address:
ATTN: Chocolate Festival Essay Contest
c/o Francine Sinkoff
Addictions Care Center of Albany
McCarty Ave.
Albany, NY 12202

•Entries may also be submitted online to fsinkoff@theacca.net

JUDGING & AWARDS:•Entries will be judged on creativity, originality and relationship to the contest theme.
•Three (3) winners will be selected to receive the following prizes:

◦1st Place: Barnes & Noble NOOKcolor
◦2nd Place: $50 Barnes & Noble Gift Card
◦3rd Place: $25 Barnes & Noble Gift Card
•Winners will be notified by phone by March 3, 2011 and must be able to supply a photo to be included in a special 12-page Times Union supplement that will feature the 7th Annual Northeast Family Chocolate Festival.
**Once submitted, essays are considered property of the Addictions Care Foundation and will not be returned.

Agenda

2011-02-16T22:00:00.001-05:00

Neighborhood Association Meeting

Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

LOCATION: John A. Howe Library
Lage Meeting Room on Lower Level
(Please use Broad Street entrance if you arrive after 6:00 pm)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Open Meeting

Devon Hedges

John A. Howe Library
(6:15-6:30)

Rev. Perry and Sue Jones
Capital City Rescue Mission
(6:30-7:00)

Questions / Issues

(7:10 - 7:30)

Updates from SENA Partners

AVillage, SEIC, Trinity Alliance, APD, AFD, AHA, Planning Dept.,

(7:30-7:50)

UPCOMING EVENTS

----------------------------

Albany Housing Authority

2nd Annual Black History Month Celebration

February 28, 2011 from 5:30 to 7:30

200 South Pearl Street

~~~

Sleep-A-Thon in the Park on March 4

from 7PM to 5AM

to Benefit the Homeless Action Committee's

Single Room Occupancy housing and Outreach Van programs.

Black History Month Celebration

2011-02-16T21:39:00.006-05:00

Albany Housing Authority

~ presents ~

Second Annual

Black History Month
Celebration

2 0 0 South Pearl Street

February 28, 2011
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Join us…as we start a trail
“Don’t follow the path. Go where there is no
path and start a trail.” – Ruby Bridges

Performance by Marva Stevens Ray
Too Deep Entertainment

Fund Raiser for Homeless Action Committee

2011-02-16T20:20:00.002-05:00

18th ANNUAL
SLEEP-A-THON
IN THE PARK

Experience life on the streets for an hour or more

Friday, March 4th, 7P to 5A
(Held rain or shine or inclement weather)

Townsend Park (corner of Henry Johnson Blvd. & Central Ave.)

Get sponsors for your hour!!!

Funds raised will benefit the Homeless Action Committee’s Single Room Occupancy (SRO) housing and Outreach Van programs. The SRO is a home for chronic alcoholics who previously were homeless and living on the streets for years. HAC’s Outreach Van program makes rounds on the streets and assists people without shelter or housing. Outreach workers provide a listening ear, food, clothing, blankets, referrals and transportation to area resources.
HAC raised over $22,000 from this event last year, with 130 people attending including college and high school students, elected officials, church groups and supporters! HAC is experiencing over $60,000 in budget cuts in 2011 and needs to raise a record amount from this event!

HELP KEEP HAC’S HOUSING & HOMELESS PROGRAMS ALIVE!

Send in the registration form below as soon as possible!

Bring your pledge sheet, along with your collected pledges, to the event. At the event,
register right away at the Social Justice Center- 33 Central Ave. (across from park)

FOR PLEDGE SHEETS, GO TO: www.homelessaction.com

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
REGISTRATION FORM
___I will attend the SLEEP-A-THON from ___AM/PM to ___AM/PM.
___Send me a pledge sheet.
___I can’t attend the SLEEP-A-THON, but can contribute:
____$100 ____$50 ____$25 ____$15 ____Other: $______
NAME:____________________________________PHONE:____________________________
ADDRESS:______________________________________________ZIP:___________________
Checks payable to: HAC, 393 N. Pearl Street, Albany, NY 12207, (518) 426-0554.

Pledge Sheet

2011-02-16T20:14:00.003-05:00

Pledge Sheet for Homeless Action Committee Sleep-a-thon

Name of Participant: _____________________________________________ Phone: ____________________

Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Time Committed to Sleep in the Park: ______ AM/ PM to _____ AM/PM Number of Hours: _______________

Each sponsor agrees to pay the above participant the amount below. Please make checks payable to: Homeless Action Committee, 393 N. Pearl Street, Albany, NY 12207.

Sponsors may pledge a certain amount per hour or if participant is staying more than 1 hour, they may pledge a set amount. Sponsors should pre-pay. If amount is not pre-paid, it is the participant’s responsibility to collect the funds.

PLEASE BRING PLEDGE SHEET, ALONG WITH PLEDGES, TO THE SLEEP-A-THON & bring over to the Social Justice Center, where registration will occur the night of the event.
Amt. Paid in Amount
Sponsor’s Name Address/Phone Pledge/Hr Total Advance Outstanding

1. _________________________________________________________________________________________
2. _________________________________________________________________________________________
3. _________________________________________________________________________________________
4. _________________________________________________________________________________________
5. _________________________________________________________________________________________
6. _________________________________________________________________________________________
7. _________________________________________________________________________________________
8. _________________________________________________________________________________________
9. _________________________________________________________________________________________
10. _________________________________________________________________________________________
11. _________________________________________________________________________________________
12. _________________________________________________________________________________________
13. _________________________________________________________________________________________
14. _________________________________________________________________________________________
15. _________________________________________________________________________________________

Welcome to Albany South End Neighborhood

2011-02-15T06:40:00.000-05:00

The South End Neighborhood Association welcomes you to our community and this website. Please check out the Updates and Events section for the latest news.

Historical sites in the Historic South End

Grand opening of Neighborhood Library

Schuyler Mansion sits on hill across from the John A. Howe Public Library

Cherry Hill Historic Mansion

December Happenings

2010-12-24T09:59:00.003-05:00

Open House for 35 Catherine Street
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Time: 5p.m. to 7p.m.

Click on the link below to preview the Capital South Properties
http://www.albanyhousing.org/locations/csp

Tuesday December 28th
South End Neighborhood Association Meeting
John Howe Library
(Please use the Broad Street entrance after 6pm)

Agenda:

Albany Fire Department Hazmat Response - Deputy Chief Nerney
Get the word out about the upcoming fire department exams - Deputy Chief Cox
Time Banking - Shanna Goldman

Pot Luck refreshments

South End Indoor Pool - Bath #2

2010-11-06T20:19:00.006-04:00

http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/Albany-urged-to-keep-South-End-pool-782485.php

2010-10-31T11:30:00.002-04:00

Albany County Community Empowerment

"Empowering Communities for Successful Aging"

The Honorable Lucille M. McKnight, 2nd District County Legislator, coordinated with Albany County Department of Social Services and other agencies to arrange a Livable Community forum. The audience for the forum were seniors and persons with disabilities. The highlights of the forum included the benefits of creating a friendly community for the aging and disabled, identifying steps that residents can take to make the community more livable.

The event was held on Oct. 18th at the John A. Howe Library. The participants engaged in discussions and completed a survey regarding their expectations for a Livable Community, the information was recorded by partnering organizations. The event sponsors were AARP, NY Connects, New York State Office for the Aging, and Albany County's Long Term Care.

Each of the participants received packets that contained valuable information regarding services that are currently available. If you or someone you know would like more information or need assistance please contact Albancy County Department for Aging at 447-7177, one number for all of your needs.

For Information and Assistance call Albany County Department for Aging NY Connects at 447-7177.

Albany County - NY Connects "Choice for Long Term Care"

Congregate Meal Program for All Albany County Seniors
Albany County Adult Day Services Programs
Albany County Registry for Persons with Special Needs
Transportation

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Southend Residents appeal to CDTA for a bus to go up Morton Avenue

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid33238197001?bclid=0&bctid=651061411001

Southend Indoor Pool - Bath #2

http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/Albany-urged-to-keep-South-End-pool-782485.php

Meeting Oct. 26, 2010

2010-10-31T10:40:00.005-04:00

Attendees:

Joe Isgro, AFD
Matt Montesano, APD
Lt. Michael Tremblay, APD
Ofc. Kenneth Sesock, APD
Douglas Brown
Onicela Cedeno, CDTA
Ross Farrell, CDTA
Cynthia Appiah
Sean Shortell
Rev. Sebastian Huemer, Unification Church
Mark Beaudoin
Marie Beaudoin
Noriko Chaumont
George Peters
Kathleen Bronson, Albany Planning and Development
Benna Elderidge, Trinity
Willie White
JoAnn Morton

Presentation from Albany Fire Department was postponed because Chief Nerney was unavailable due to the fire at the Storage Facility. A new date will be scheduled for the presentation.

Lt. Tremblay gave an overview on the Neighborhood Engagement Unit Community Policing. The Community Policing model to be implemented in early December with beat officers on the ground, they will be trained to address the normal policing issues but more importantly issues that affect residents quality of life. The officers will have the ability to develop solutions to problems, this may be achievd by bringing in other types of services.

Sean Shortell, encouraged residents to get out to vote and to volunteer over the weekend to pass out literature about polling locations.

Ross and Oni. Discussed CDTA's effort to get public input regarding bus services: CDTA has representatives attending neighborhood meetings, CDTA will have interns mark where riders are getting on and off the bus. Scheduled a series of priortiy meetings to get a general sense of service improvements. Collecting information from surveys that are conducted on the bus. City wide meetings where resident and riders are invited to participate in workshops. A website will be setup for callins with meetings planned for January or February.

The bus route plan will be finalized by the end of the year. A new schedule and infrastructure will be established with the actual rollout to occur in August 2011 in the city.

Route restructuring is normally based on the number of increased riders. Three scenarios are being developed: 1) A plan for an increase in service, 2) A plan for no increase in service and 3) A plan with continued cuts in budget.

The meeting attendees provided feedback regarding their priority for route changes.

November meeting agenda: Neighborhood Watch

Meeting Agenda

2010-10-16T17:25:00.001-04:00

Neighborhood Association Meeting

Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

LOCATION: John A. Howe Library
Lage Meeting Room on Lower Level
(Please use Broad Street entrance if you arrive after 6:00 pm)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Open Meeting

New or outstanding issues &

Updates from SENA Partners

(6:10-6:30)

Ross Farrell Sr. Transportation Planner CDTA

'Planning Process for Albany Route Restructuring'
(6:30 - 7:00)

Deputy Chief Nerney

Albany Fire Department

' Response in the event of a Hazmat incident at the Port of Albany'

(7:00-7:40)

UPCOMING EVENTS

Community Empowerment Discussion

Albany 2030
Make your priorities the cities priorities. Don't miss your opportunity to help shape policy in regards to projects and priorities for the future of the City of Albany.

If you didn't make it to one of the meetings, look for more ways to participate online at http://www.albany2030.org/

SENA Meeting

2010-10-08T19:47:00.001-04:00

SENA meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of each month.

The meeting schedule for 2011 is listed below.

Jan 25
Feb 22
Mar 22
Apr 26
May 24
Jun 28
Jul 26
Aug 23
Sep 27
Oct 25
Nov 22
Dec 27

Meetings are held at the John A. Howe Library located at 105 Schuyler Street

Albany, NY 12202

Meeting Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

(Please use the Broad Street entracne after 6:00 PM)

Refreshments served. All are welcome - please join us.

Please invite a friend or tell a neighbor about the meetings.

Upcoming Events

2010-09-29T23:20:00.005-04:00

Tutors & Homework Help

Free Homework help for Elementary School Students at the Howe Library in the basment meeting room. Hours are from 3:30 to 5:00 Monday - Thursday. No appointment is needed. Snacks served.

Free Tutors for Elementary - High School Students, Wednesdays and Fridays

Tutors are from Albany College of Pharmacy

Ask at the desk if you would like to make an appointment with a tutor.

Albany 2030

Make your priorities the cities priorities. Don't miss your opportunity to help shape policy in regards to projects and priorities for the future of the City of Albany.

Please plan to attend one of the scheduled meetings.

Choose your preferences for how neighborhoods, parks and other City features look and which locations take priority. You will also have the opportunity to put money where your priorities are in our budget exercise. As always, the workshops are free and open to everyone. Parking at each location is free, and light refreshments will be provided. Kids are welcome, and we'll be raffling off great local prizes for free! Remember that all three days have the same agenda, so plan on attending one and make your priorities our priorities.

Round 3 Workshops:

Thursday, September 30

6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Albany High School Cafeteria

700 Washington Avenue

Friday, October 1

9:00 AM – Noon

North Albany YMCA Gymnasium

616 North Pearl Street

Saturday, October 2

1:00PM – 4:00PM

Hackett Middle School Cafeteria

45 Delaware Avenue

If you can't make it to one of the meetings, look for more ways to participate online at http://www.albany2030.org/

------------

Community Events and Classes Offered at Trinity Institution

Free Spanish and French Classes, Saturday 11:00 - 12:30 (Spanish) and 12:30-1:30(French)

--------

Meeting Agenda Sept 2010

2010-09-28T08:05:00.000-04:00

Neighborhood Association Meeting
Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

LOCATION:
John A. Howe Library

Lage Meeting Room on Lower Level

(Please use Broad Street entrance if you arrive after 6:00 pm)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Open Meeting

(6:00)

Guest Speaker

(6:15-6:30)

Updates (SENA Parnters)

(6:30 - 7:00)

Evan Eisenhamer

CSX Operation LifeSaver

(7:00-8:00)

UPCOMING EVENTS

September Events

2010-09-08T19:34:00.008-04:00

Upcoming Events

Friday September 10
Free Mammograms for Uninsured at Westgate Plaza and
Cancer awareness and survivorship celebration at WAMC taking place

Two Together Annual Appeal Brochure which highlights what the program does, as well as a permission slip for parents to sign and return.
Two Together After-School Reading and Writing Program
Permission Slip
200 Green Street / Albany NY 12202 – (518) 434-9055 info@twotogether.org

Two Together is an after-school reading and writing program.
Purpose: is to strengthen children’s social, cultural, and intellectual growth through improved language and literacy skills in a safe environment that fosters a life-long love and enthusiasm for learning. Please call us if you have any questions or would like some additional information (518) 434-9055 (2-5pm or leave a message.) Parents will pick up children at 5:00.

Children in grads 1-6 are eligible to attend.
Two Together runs Monday to Friday / 3:40 - 5:00

Meeting Agenda

2010-08-21T05:11:00.001-04:00

Neighborhood Association Meeting
August 24, 2010
6:00 PM

LOCATION:

John A. Howe Library

Meeting Opened

Report on National Night Out
(6:00-6:15)

Prayer and Vision

(6:15-6:30)

U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI)

Jen Barkan, Resource Manager
(6:30-6:45)

Updates (SENA Partners)
(7:00-7:30)

UPCOMING EVENTS

EMT Training September 8

2010-08-12T23:00:00.005-04:00

Upcoming Events

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2010 City of Albany Free EMT Class

Classes begin September 8th

Location: Fire Headquarters - 26 Broad Street

Albany, NY 12202

Classes will be held on Monday & Wednesday evening

Time: 6:00pm to 10pm (136 hours of classroom & lab instructon)

Your completed applications must be returned by August 20th to the

Office of Administrative Services - City Hall, 24 Eagle St - 3rd Floor Albany, NY 12207

For more information contact:

Deputy Chief Michael Cox at 518-447-7879 or visit the website at http://www.albanyny.org/

2010-06-15T23:56:00.005-04:00

Summertime At Two Together

July 12th – July 30th, 2010
9 AM – Noon

Science All Around Us
Look Up, Look Down

Students will investigate plant, animal and stream ecology on visit to special environmental centers and through digging, and harvesting their own garden here in the South End and write and tell their experience.

We welcome children entering grades 3 – 6 to this FREE program

200 Green St 2nd Fl - Albany NY 12202 – (518) 434-9055 – info@twotogether.org

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Too Deep Entertainment
presents
"LOL"
(Laugh Out Loud)
*Plus enter to WIN up to $2,500!!
A LIVE COMEDY packed show of HIGH-ENERGY performances filled with LAUGH OUT LOUD humor. Enjoy this UPLIFTING and unconventional comedy show that takes you through some FUNNY and unrelated stories about life.
June 11, 12, 18 and 19* @ 7pm
June 13 @ 3pm
at
Steamer No. 10 Theatre
500 Western Ave., Albany
Tickets: $8 in advance/$10 at door
*50-50 Raffle Tickets: $5 - drawing at June 19th performance

2010-06-15T17:05:00.000-04:00

Too Deep Entertainment

presents

"LOL"

(Laugh Out Loud)

*Plus enter to WIN up to $2,500!!

A LIVE COMEDY packed show of HIGH-ENERGY performances filled with LAUGH OUT LOUD humor. Enjoy this UPLIFTING and unconventional comedy show that takes you through some FUNNY and unrelated stories about life.

June 11, 12, 18 and 19* @ 7pm

June 13 @ 3pm

Steamer No. 10 Theatre

500 Western Ave., Albany

Tickets: $8 in advance/$10 at door

*50-50 Raffle Tickets: $5 - drawing at June 19th performance

Updates and Events

2010-05-19T23:00:00.000-04:00

.ALBANY POLICE DEPARTMENT & ALBANY PAL TO HOST 1ST BIKE RODEO

Albany, NY—The Albany Police Department [APD] and the Albany Police Athletic League, Inc. [APAL] are pleased to announce the first annual city-wide Bike Rodeo to be held from 10 AM-1 pm, at Albany’s Corning Preserve on Saturday, May 22, 2010.

Working in tandem with the Albany Police Department, the Albany Police Athletic League (PAL) is a juvenile crime prevention program which brings Albany’s youth, police officers and community members together during non-school hours. Each year PAL delivers safe and fun recreational, athletic and educational programs to approximately 4,000 Albany youth. To keep Albany’s youths active, involved and safe the APD and APAL are putting together the first city-wide Bike Rodeo. This event will address bicycle safety and road/traffic awareness; health; and bicycle maintenance and repair.

“Simply stated, this event is education by practice,” said Sgt. (Ret.) Ricchiuti, PAL’s Executive Director. “The goal of the 2010 Bicycle Rodeo is to provide an opportunity for participants of all ages to learn, practice, and demonstrate their bicycle handling skills in a fun, noncompetitive atmosphere. The event will teach young bicyclists the real world skills they need to ride their bicycles safely.”

“This Bike Rodeo is designed to help make children aware of bicycle safety issues and will teach parents the importance of ensuring that children are wearing a helmet every time they get on their bikes,” stated APD Deputy Chief Steve Krokoff.

The APD and APAL will be handing out and fitting the first 200 registered children with free helmets. There will be fun and educational hands-on tutorials provided by partner organizations and volunteers. Participants will be a part of demonstrations and take a “Bike Hike” with Albany Police Officers along the Hudson River. Join us for a morning of fun with a Hot Dog BBQ capping off the event.

To register for the event visit the Albany PAL website at www.albanypal.org or call (518) 458-5669. For more information about this event and others, visit the Albany PAL website at www.albanypal.org or call the office: (518)435-0392.

.
Spring Cleanup

If your normal collection day is Monday and you live in the South End, South of Morton Avenue or East of Delaware Avenue, your spring cleanup is on Monday, May 10, 2010.

Tulip Bulbs will be sold May 16

Library Board of Trustees and Library Budget on Ballot May 18

Attend a budget presentation and candidate forum at the Main Library on Wednesday, May 12, at 7 p.m. Library leaders will present the proposed 2011 budget, and the five trustee candidates will speak to the public..

Substantial Amendment to the Consolidated Plan 2008 Annual Action Plan for the CDBG- Recovery

Vacant Lot Project

Howe Branch of Albany Public Library Renovation Complete Open House March 27, 2010

Events in April

Dr. Martin Luther King Observance

Divas for Christ

Menu Of Resources For Technical Assistance, Rehab Financing & Home Purchases

Library Renovation Updates

Hazardous Waste

Albany County Weatherization and HEAP Programs

Volunteer Drivers - American Cancer Society

SmartWorks Senior Services

Homeowner Rehabilitation Program (HARP)

South End Parent and Community Empowerment Conference at Giffen Elementary - Notes

2010-05-09T09:32:00.001-04:00

Grand Street Community Arts (GSCA). Vacant Lot Project

Seeking proposals for projects that will benefit the community on selected vacant lots in Albany's South End. . Email proposals to vacantlotproject@grandarts.org. This is a volunteer project in the spirit of Grand Street Community Arts' mission to foster "unity and connection," in the community and to "encourage ar as a natural tool of expression available to everyone."

2010-05-09T09:27:00.001-04:00

Bicycle Lock Program.
Albany Police Department Bicycle Lock Program is once again sponsoring a bicycle anti-theft program. For application or more information call the Albany Police Department at 518-438-4000.

Healthy Living Partnerships, provides breast exam, mammogram, pat test, colorectal screening, prostate education. You may be eligible for Free cancer screening. Please call 518-454-4000 for more information.

2010-05-09T08:46:00.003-04:00

Household Spring Cleanup
Each year Mayor Jennings announces the dates of the Household Spring Cleanup, which provides city residents with an opportunity to dispose of their excessive household trash. Only residents who live in residential dwellings with four (4) or less units and who utilize our weekly waste collection program may participate in this program.

Trash should be placed curbside, after 7p.m., the evening prior to your scheduled spring cleanup day.

If your normal collection day is Monday and you live in the South End, South of Morton Avenue or East of Delaware Avenue, your spring cleanup is on Monday, May 10, 2010.

Click here for the 2010 Household Spring Cleanup Schedule

Hazardous Waste is never accepted curbside even on spring cleanup days. Please call the Department of General Services at 434-CITY with any questions about the Household Hazardous Waste program or Click here to learn more about the Household Hazardous Waste

Please call the Department of General Services with any questions regarding the Household Spring Cleanup at 434-CITY, Monday through Friday, between 9:00am and 5:00pm.

Tulip Bulb Sale

Tulip bulbs will be pulled up on Saturday, May 15 and sold Sunday, May 16 at the Washington Park Lake House from 8am-9am. The cost is $5 a bag with approximately 25-30 bulbs per bag. Call 434-2489 for more information

Substantial Amendment to the Consolidated Plan 2008 Annual Action Plan for the CDBG- Recovery
by: ACDA 518-434-5240

As an eligible grantee to receive funds under Community Development Block Grant- Recovery (CDBG-R), the City of Albany Community Development Agency (ACDA) submitted a Substantial Amendment to the 2008 Annual Action Plan to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Approval of the Substantial Amendment was granted by HUD and the ACDA received $996,140 in CDBG-R stimulus funds in August 2009.

The proposed uses of CDBG-R funds outlined in the original Substantial Amendment have since been altered. Therefore, a revised Amendment has been created and is available for review. For additional information regarding the CDBG-R program, visit the HUD website at http://www.hud.gov/recovery/cdblock.cfm.
The revised Substantial Amendment is on file at the ACDA, 200 Henry Johnson Blvd., Albany, NY 12210, the Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12210, the Albany Housing Authority, 200 South Pearl Street, Albany, NY 12202 and the City of Albany website (www.albanyny.gov). It may be examined or copied weekdays 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Any individual, group, or agency wishing to comment on the amendment may submit written comments to the ACDA, 200 Henry Johnson Blvd., Albany, NY 12210. All comments received before June 4, 2010 will be considered by the City of Albany prior to submission of the revised Substantial Amendment.

For more information, a public meeting will be held to discuss the changes in the City of Albany’s CDBG-R program on May 11, 2010 at 5:30 in the community room at the Albany Community Development Agency located at 200 Henry Johnson Blvd., Albany 12210.

2010-04-28T21:00:00.005-04:00

Library Board of Trustees and Library Budget are on the ballot May 18.
Albany city residents go to the polls Tuesday, May 18, to vote on the Albany Public Library 2011 tax levy and to choose two new members for the Library Board of Trustees.

It is critical that everyone get out to vote. If you need more information regarding the candidates or the budget click on the following link http://www.albanypubliclibrary.org/news/?p=236 or attend a budget presentation and candidate forum at the Main Library on Wednesday, May 12, at 7 p.m. Library leaders will present the proposed 2011 budget, and the five trustee candidates will speak to the public..

The following are some facts found in the Libraries eNotes:

Budget Facts and Figures
Polls are open on Tuesday, May 18, from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. for voters to cast their ballots on the proposed 2011 library tax levy of $7,037,277. This reflects a 4.9 percent increase in the annual library tax levy. If approved by voters, this increase would mean that the owner of a $100,000 home would pay approximately $5.71 more per year, or less than two cents a day.

"We feel this is a prudent, fiscally responsible budget that will allow us to continue to build the infrastructure necessary to support seven full-service libraries in Albany, including our five wonderful new neighborhood libraries," said Library Executive Director Carol Nersinger. The budget was approved last month by the Board of Trustees, a nine-member group that oversees library operations and is elected by voters.

Also on the ballot May 18 is the election of two members of the library's Board of Trustees. The candidates, listed in ballot order, are: Jose Lopez, Mary (Mimi) Mounteer, Roberta Sims, Robert Chaumont, and Esther Patterson.

The library will host a budget presentation and candidate forum on Wednesday, May 12, at 7 p.m. at the Main Library. The public is encouraged to attend.

Library leaders are discussing the budget at various neighborhood association meetings in April and May, and will present at the CANA meeting on May 5. More detailed budget and candidate information will soon be available on our website and at all library locations.

Closing in on Bach Branch Grand Opening

Just 18 days and counting until the grand opening of Albany's newest neighborhood library. The John J. Bach Branch Library at 455 New Scotland Avenue (next to the Engine 11 Fire Station) celebrates its grand opening in style on Saturday, May 15. The free community party kicks off at 12:30 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and remarks by the mayor and library leaders. The Bach Branch party also includes musical entertainment, refreshments courtesy of Price Chopper, giveaways, and more fun for the whole family. Weather permitting, we'll be able to take advantage of the great front patio and rear story garden for many of the party activities. The library celebration is happening in conjunction with the New Scotland Spring Spree event, so there are plenty of reasons to visit the new library and surrounding neighborhood on May 15. Stay tuned for more details about the Bach party activities schedule.

Arbor Hill/West Hill Opening Next in Line

The stunning Arbor Hill/West Hill Branch Library at 148 Henry Johnson Boulevard will open on Saturday, June 12, with a free celebration for the entire community. Library supporters will have a chance to get a sneak peek at this impressive building -- which includes floor-to ceiling windows, an interior garden wall, colorful and contemporary design scheme, and bright and airy spaces -- on Thursday, May 27, at a special evening fundraising reception. Invitations will be going out soon, so watch your mail, and e-Notes, for details.

Please remember to exercise your civic duty and vote on the library budget and trustee candidates on Tuesday, May 18. And, make plans to join us for the community parties celebrating the Bach Branch opening on May 15 and the Arbor Hill/West Hill Branch opening on June 12.

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

Albany Public Libraries
Acoustic Sidewalk Concerts Start April 16
Warm breezes, bright sunshine, and cool tunes are on the set list for our new Acoustic Sidewalk concert series. The free afternoon concerts will take place on outdoor patios and sidewalks at the city's libraries during warm-weather months.

The second Acoustic Sidewalk concert is set for Friday, April 30, at noon featuring the Jody Shayne Trio at the Main Library at 161 Washington Avenue. The group will perform original jazz compositions, perfect for celebrating Jazz Appreciation Month.

We've got many more Acoustic Sidewalk shows on tap for Albany's neighborhood libraries. Stay tuned for additional concert dates.

Bookends Used Book Store Opens April 20

Book lovers will soon have a new place to buy good quality, low cost, gently used books. Bookends, Albany Public Library's used book store, will open to the public on Tuesday, April 20, at 5 p.m. at the Main Library, 161 Washington Avenue.

Bookends houses more than 2,000 gently used books, including volumes of fiction and nonfiction for adults and children. The store will initially be open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m. The bookstore collection will be priced at $1 (mass market paperbacks), $3 (trade paperbacks), and $5 (hard covers). The library plans to expand the hours of operation in the future. Proceeds from Bookends will support projects and activities not covered by the library's operating budget. Many of the books for sale in Bookends come from generous donations by library patrons.

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

Do you know of someone facing difficulties with their mortgage? The worst thing is to do nothing. Let them know about the HomeSave Coalition and our FREE clinics. HomeSave is a very active coalition of 14 organizations working to prevent foreclosures by offering education, counseling, lender negotiation and legal help to owners and tenants. Foreclosures are terrible for families and neighborhoods. If you know of homeowners that could benefit from meeting with an attorney or well-trained housing counselor, please have them call 518-434-1730 to register for the April 15 clinic

Grand Street Community Arts (GSCA). Vacant Lot Project. Seeking proposals for projects that will benefit the community on selected vacant lots in Albany's South End. Responses are due by April 9, 2010. Email proposals to vacantlotproject@grandarts.org. Clikck here for more detail regarding the vacant lot project. This is a volunteer project in the spirit of Grand Street Community Arts' mission to foster "unity and connection," in the community and to "encourage ar as a natural tool of expression available to everyone."

Bicycle Lock Program. Albany Police Department Bicycle Lock Program is once again sponsoring a bicycle anti-theft program. For application or more information call the Albany Police Department at 518-438-4000.

Healthy Living Partnerships, provides breast exam, mammogram, pat test, colorectal screening, prostate education. You may be eligible for Free cancer screening. Please call 518-454-4000 for more information.

2010-04-17T10:03:00.004-04:00

Activities, Camps and Job Opportunities

The purpose of this page is to provide information to parents and youth regarding camps, activities and job opportunities when school is not in session.

CAMPS:

Frank Chapman Memorial Institute
2010 Summer Camp
Applications available

Campsite Locations:
St. Vincent’s Community Academy (V.l)
840 Madison Avenue Albany, NY
Director, Mr. Jamil Hood

Contact FCMI at (518) 275-0375
This is not a school sponsored event. The City School District of Albany is not liable for any problems or damages arising from participation in this activity.

------------------------------------------------------------------

National Night Out August 2, 2011

2010-03-27T02:03:00.000-04:00

Save the date for Annual National Night Out.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011 from 6PM to 8PM

The South End Neighborhood Association will collaborate with SENA Partners and Sponsors to bring our community together to celebrate National Night Out.

This event is celebrated across America, it's purpose is a crime prevention and awareness program to heighten awareness in preventing crime in addition to fostering relationships with between law enforcement and the community. This event allows people in the community to come out and enjoy an evening filled with entertainment, fun activities and food.

If you would like to participate in this event please contact a member of the National Night Out Committee or send an email to southendneighborhoodassociation@hotmail.com

2010-03-20T11:11:00.005-04:00

South End Neighborhood Association (SENA)
Tuesday, Tuesday March 23, 2010
Crenshaw Memorial
7 Morton Avenue
6:00 - 8:00 PM
Meeting Agenda
Welcome ----------------------------- SENA Officer
.
Prayer and
Vision for Community -----Rev. John Miller
.
Vacant Lot Project --------- Jane Wolterding (Grand Street Community Arts)
.
South End Improvement Corporation
Update ----------------------Sandra Obeido
.
Community Update ---------- Councilman Lester Freeman
.
A Village Update ------------- Willie White

Howe Library Opening ----------------

Update from SENA Parnters --------
Albany Police Dept,
Albany Fire Dept.,
Albany Housing Authority,
Albany Public Library,
City of Albany Dept. of Development and Planning,
South End Improvement Corporation
Trinity Institute,

.
Closing
Members are encouraged to ask questions after each presenter.

Community Happenings:

1. Free Landlord Training. Invite your neighborhood's landlords to learn effective property management practices at a free workshop on Thursday, March 25 at 5:30pm at 255 Orange Street. Help your landlords provide quality housing while protecting their investment and your neighborhood. Call 434-1730 x0 to register or register online at http://www.ahphome.org/

2. The Annual Capital Region Housing Fair will be held on Saturday, April 24, from 10 to 2 pm at the Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Avenue. This is a great opportunity for your neighbors to learn about homeownership opportunities and home preservation strategies. Lenders, attorneys, nonprofit organizations, and realtors will all be in attendance with programs to help you buy a home, fix your home or save your home from foreclosure. Free seminars will be held on foreclosure prevention, credit repair, grants, financing, tax credits and how to hire a contractor. ** This is also a chance to promote the benefits of buying a home in your neighborhood at this well-attended event. There will be a table for neighborhood brochures and flyers. Please get materials to me at 255 Orange Street, Albany, NY 12210. 434-1730.

3. Do you know of someone facing difficulties with their mortgage? The worst thing is to do nothing. Let them know about the HomeSave Coalition and our FREE clinics. HomeSave is a very active coalition of 14 organizations working to prevent foreclosures by offering education, counseling, lender negotiation and legal help to owners and tenants. Foreclosures are terrible for families and neighborhoods. If you know of homeowners that could benefit from meeting with an attorney or well-trained housing counselor, please have them call 434-1730 to register for the April 15 clinic

About SENA

2010-01-15T15:45:00.001-05:00

Officers:

JoAnn Morton - President
Noriko Chaumont - Vice President
Marie Beaudoin - Secretary
Nellie Morton - Corresponding Secretary
Mark Beaudoin - Treasurer

The purpose of South End Neighborhood Association (SENA) is be to preserve and improve the quality of life for all residents in our culturally, economically, and racially diverse neighborhoods. We will promote the South end neighborhood as viable places to reside, work, and enjoy life.

Minutes - December 22, 2009

2010-01-09T20:32:00.004-05:00

SENA Meeting - December 22, 2009

SENA held its monthly meeting at the Crenshaw Memorial Center located at 7 Morton Avenue. The meeting was called to order by the JoAnn, SENA President. The Honorable Carolyn McLaughlin, President of Albany Common Council, and Katie Bronson, Senior Planner for the City of Albany Department of Development and Planning discussed the Comprehensive Plan and the meeting that is scheduled for Jan. 27, 28, and 29th, for more details visit www.Albany2030.net. Residents were encouraged to participate in the upcoming meetings and to share their opinions and concerns regarding their expectations and desires for the city of Albany in twenty years. Katie stated the meetings are being scheduled for different times each day to encourage more residents to participate. It cannot be emphasized enough the importance of residents input during these sessions so the residents vision can be included in the Comprehensive plan for 2030.

A community meeting for selecting Albany Police Chief will be held in January 2010. Application will be accepted starting in January and ending on February 15, 2010.

Officer Matt of Albany Police Department reported that Community Policing is working in this area as there are two Beat Cops currently working. The Citizens Police Academy will be held in February, more information will be available in January. Officer Montesano is working on a Defensive Driving class that can be offered to citizens for a minimal fee.

Residents were reminded that the Census Questionnaire will be arriving in the mail on April 1, and that it is critical for the City of Albany that everyone complete and return the form. Having an accurate count of all people in each household will impact the city because money received into the city for programs like the Community Development Block Grant, RESTORE, Road Improvement are based on population which is determined based on the Census counts.

Trinity Institute is doing a Transportation Survey and is looking for input from residents especially those residents who use public transportation.

The John Finn Institute was conducting a survey of the Police Department.

Kevin Grinwis, of Albany Housing Authority reported on the South End Revitalization efforts. Zoning Board has approved and the lots have been consolidated for new construction on Morton Avenue. It is expected that construction will start in March 2010, the houses will be managed by Albany Housing Authority. There will be no housing vouchers and the charge will be the max allowable rate.
The Capital District Workforce Development Building Bridges program will use CDBG funds to train residents who are interested in Construction. The training program will teach soft skills for a couple of weeks and then will have participants do actual work on the job.

Alan Lanier represented the Albany Fire Dept., he will follow-up on question regarding a fire on Broad and Fourth Third Avenue.

Katie has coordinated with Jerry Spicer to discuss Block by Block for Zone 3 at SENA’s January meeting. Residents were encouraged to identify areas that they feel need to be looked at during the Block by Block Zone 3 initiative. Some issues that residents identified during the meeting for Block by Block for Zone 3 to address are:

Water problems on lower Alexander Street
Repaving the entire Alexander Street
Lights out, residents were asked to get the pole number so it could be properly reported
Pole #9 and #10 lights out
A wire, not sure if it is electrical, cable or phone, is hanging within reach in front of 79 Alexander.

The meeting was adjourned. Next meeting scheduled for January, 2010 at 6pm.

January 2010 Meeting Agenda

2010-01-09T08:48:00.024-05:00

South End Neighborhood Association (SENA)

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Crenshaw Memorial

7 Morton Avenue

6:00 - 8:00 PM

Meeting Agenda

Welcome ----------------------------- SENA Officer

Prayer and

Vision for Community -----Rev. Victor Covington

Block by Block, Zone 3 --------------Jerry Spicer

Catholic Charities Mobil Outreach ----Keith Brown

South End Revitalization

Phase II Update ----------------------Kevin Grinwis

Comprehensive Plan Update ----------Katie Bronson

Update from SENA Parnters --------

Albany Police Dept,

Albany Fire Dept.,

Albany Public Library,

City of Albany Dept. of Development and Planning,

Trinity Institute,

Albany Housing Authority

Closing

Members are encouraged to ask questions after each presenter.

Divas For Christ

2009-07-29T21:16:00.004-04:00

Devoted, Inspired, Victorious, and Assigned to...
Working with our Lord Jesus Christ to rebuild individuals and communities.

Creator: Our Lord Jesus Christ

Co-laborers: Sandra, Margaret, Shanel

Scripture: We're Christ's representatives. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God's work of making things right between them. We're speaking for Christ himself now. Become friends with God. He's already a friend with you. 2 Corinthians 5:20

Purpose: To take back and build our self-esteem, our wants, desires, and our neighborhoods. To introduce to some, and present to others, our Lord Jesus Christ. To walk with individuals down the path of understanding, purpose and power. To show how to incorporate God in all that we do, knowing apart from Him we are nothing and can do nothing. Diva's for Christ is not a church, but we are women who love the Lord, who have learned to walk with the Lord, through battles, problems and unforeseen circumstances. Learning how to move from the pit to the palace of God's Kingdom.

Assignment: To begin support groups for the young and seasoned individuals. Because we are the image of Christ, Diva's for Christ want to encourage others to present their bodies, personalities, and their gifts as a sacrifice unto God in every manner necessary for edifying of the Kingdom of God. For some, it will mean losing weight, so we have an exercise program with a personal trainer. For others, it's getting a better understanding of who God is, who you are, and what God has for you.

Proverbs 4:7 says, Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding, by spending time in God's word. Learning to love all of God's creation, because it says in John 13:35, By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another... Diva's for Christ would like to show under the unction of the holy spirit, how to walk with God for the best He has for you.

Minutes - July 28, 2009

2009-07-29T21:03:00.001-04:00

SENA Meeting - July 28, 2009

JoAnn (SENA President) called the meeting to order and announced the agenda for the evening.

Rhonda from Trinity Institute gave a report about the Arise one-week community leadership training she attended in NYC. The training focused on what you as an individual wanted. What you want in your community and what you can do to advance your future. They also did lots of one-on-one training. It was a very good seminar, overall.

Robert (South End resident) also attended the Arise training and talked more about the program. Obama went through the same community leadership training with the same organization and same teacher. About 150 people attended the training. Robert said they focused a lot on the question "What is our real self-interest?" They used agitation to get people to discover and clarify what they really want so it can become a reality and not just a dream. They want you to get angry so you can fuel your passion. With the one-on-one training, you were able to gather information, help another find their self interest, and discover your own self interest. Another exercise they did was to create a list of things in your past that were opressing you, so you could go forward freely.

JoAnn announced that National Night Out was next week.

Sandra (resident) talked about her organization "Diva's for Christ". She wants to help the South End by helping kids get off the street. Now she's in school studying construction engineering, but she would like to get in contact with someone who will support her organization and help her with the next step to accomplish her goals.

Joe from the Fire Dept. introduced himself and said he deals with any code enforcement issues. He also announced the August 15th city auction. Many buildings in the South End will be put up for auction. It will be held at Albany High School. Visit albanycounty.org for the details.

Mark (SENA Vice President) asked what happened to the restaurant on Alexander that closed down practically overnight.
Matt from the APD said it was overrun with rats.

Joe also said there was some stimulus money the city earmarked for demolition, so some of the buildings in the South End might be taken down.

Sandra asked how you could get a vacant building rehabbed to become a community center.
Joe answered that first you have to find which building you want. Then find out who the owner is contact them. The city and county can also help with grants for rehabbing.

Tom from Grand Street Community Arts said there's an empty lot on the corner of Elizabeth and 4th Ave. The city is the owner, so they're trying to work with the city to create a space for kids to come and do performances. They also talked to the neighbors, since they want them involved with what happens to the lot. He said he was willing to pass on whatever information he knows to Sandra.

Katie from the City of Albany handed out the SEAC Menu of Resources. She also said Citizen's Bank has a program where if you want to buy a house in a low or moderate income area, they can decrease the interest by 0.5 - 1%.
JoAnn asked for copies of the Menu of Resources for National Night Out, which Katie agreed to make.

Matt gave a police report. There were many car larcenies recently. If you see someone doing anything suspicious, call 438-4000 right away and report what's happening, what the person looks like, and when you saw the activity. He also reminded us not to leave anything in our cars.

Sandra O. from South End Improvement Corp. announced that the HARP and ReStore programs have been funded, though the money won't be available until January.

Benna from Trinity Institute said Trinity was debuting many programs in mid-September. They are also working with two National Night Out events and African American Family Day. Another Family Neighborhood and Resource Center in Arbor Hill is also being opened in mid-September.
Rhonda added that they were working with kids through the arts with African dance, step, colleges, GSCA, etc.

Darren from Albany Housing said they were re-funded for the affordable housing program. Scavo's Market will be taken down. Apartments and townhouse style homes will be built. Some vacant buildings will be rehabbed. We will start seeing changes in fall and spring.

Benna said there's someone who owns a bakery in the Port that wants to have a bakery on South Pearl. If Albany Housing wants to make the old knitting factory into a storefront, maybe he can apply for that building.

Carmela asked if anyone was doing anything towards having a community college in Albany.
Darren said no one is doing anything in that direction now, since Monique left, but they're open to suggestions. SUNY is active in Arbor Hill and is looking to rehab a storefront.

JoAnn talked more about National Night Out. She sent out an email for volunteers, though she still needs more. Set-up crew should arrive by 5pm. The event starts at 6pm. 500 flyers are printed and ready at the SEIC building on 38 Catherine St. She needs volunteers to pass them out to the community.
Sandra said she can get people to help her hand out the flyers at the Towers.
Benna said she can cover the flyers at Trinity.
Tom can distribute flyers on Grand Street.
Noriko can do 1st and 2nd Ave from S.Pearl to Elizabeth.
Terry, JoAnn, and Mary can also distribute flyers.
JoAnn also announced the National Night Out committee meeting at the SEIC building on July 29th.

Sandra said Diva's for Christ wants to do a back-to-school event. She already got many donations of school supplies.
JoAnn suggested contacting Giffen Elementary School and maybe work with them, since they also have a back-to-school fair.

The meeting was adjourned. Next meeting scheduled for August 25, 2009 at 6pm.

Minutes - June 23, 2009

2009-07-03T17:39:00.000-04:00

SENA Meeting – June 23, 2009

Those in attendance: JoAnn Morton(president), Yoko Chaumont(secretary/webmaster), Chris Kollias(AFD), Benna Eldridge(Trinity), Sandra Obiedo(SEIC), Rhonda Brown(Trinity), Esther Patterson(resident), Arielle King(resident), Mark Beaudoin(vice president), Nellie Morton(corresponding secretary), Rebecca Platel(GSCA), Robert Chaumont(resident), Noriko Chaumont(resident), Matt Montesano(APD), Carmela Triolo, Tom McPheeters(GSCA), and Katie Bronson(City of Albany).

JoAnn called the meeting to order and everyone introduced themselves.

JoAnn announced SENA is partnering with the Mansion Neighborhood Association for the National Night Out event on August 4th. It will be held on the Eagle St side of Lincoln Park. She asked who would like to be on the committee and who would like to volunteer. She also asked if anyone was able to provide food donations.
Benna volunteered to be on the committee and said Trinity would be able to provide bottled water.
Esther also volunteered to be on the committee and asked what kind of publicity we would have for National Night Out.
JoAnn said last year we distributed flyers and that we will do it again this year, along with any other possible methods.
Sandra volunteered for the committee and said they could hold the meetings at the South End Improvement Corporation(SEIC) at 38 Catherine St.
Arielle King agreed to be on the committee and volunteered to make posters for National Night Out.

Rebecca introduced herself briefly and talked about her new position working with Grand Street Community Arts.

JoAnn introduced the main speaker, Sandra, to talk about SEIC and the grants available.
Sandra said SEIC was a small, non-profit organization that helps provide rehabilitation for homes. The eligibility for grants are based on income, and the building needs to be owner-occupied. Sandra also mentioned the block-by-block program and the list of homes targeted. The South End is zone three, which is starting in early fall. The houses will be inspected and they will be looking for violations.

Esther asked about abandoned buildings.
Chris from the Fire Dept. defined an abandoned building. An abandoned building has additional means of security, suck as a padlock. Also, if it has been unoccupied for more than a year, it is considered vacant. The longer the building stays vacant, the more money the owner has to pay to the city each year. The city is trying to contact the owners and get them to register their buildings.
JoAnn asked about the process of the inspection of vacant buildings.
Chris said it was basically an exterior inspection. If there are stairs deteriorating, paint chipping, exposed wood, etc, the owner has 30 days to fix it. If they need more time, they can call and ask for more time.
JoAnn asked if it was hard to contact the owners.
Chris answered that they send a letter to the owner, if they do not respond or fix it within the allotted time, it goes to court. After that, the court handles it and he can't speak for the court. Every case is different.
JoAnn asked if it was a friendly process, since it may be intimidating to seniors or other residents.
Chris said it's pretty friendly, as much as possible. They do need to be firm about it, though.
JoAnn and Benna said they would like to spread the info about the available grants to people. Maybe they could hand out flyers with the grant information a week or two before block-by-block begins. Maybe they could send a paper about the available grants when they send the letters to the owners.
Chris said Joe from the Fire Dept couldn't come this meeting, so he was filling in, but the buildings on Alexander St brought up last meeting were taken care of.

Esther asked if the Fire Dept can come to neighborhood block parties and events.
Chris said they can if they have time, and you can call Captain Lajoy to get more information.

Benna gave the news at Trinity. They got some new staff members. Sometimes they have HIV blood screenings available. They also have Capoeira lessons at SUNY Albany. They are taught by Brazilian teachers who speak no English, though they have translators with them. They're willing to teach any age. Most people in the class are students, since it's held at SUNY. Hopefully they will have an ice cream social at the end of July with another Capoeira demonstration. The Capoeira lessons are from 1:30-5pm on Saturdays. The ice cream social will probably be held around 4-6pm. Rhonda Brown is the new activity coordinator. The Family Neighborhood Resource Center is expanding with new staff. Trinity is trying to get a small bus to go to and from the hospital 4 times a day. Trinity is also trying to work with the business community and get them involved. Benna also invited anyone to stop by Trinity on Wednesday evenings to see some fancy bikes. They have a bike program where people can come in, learn how to fix your bike, get a new part for your bike, or even build your own bike. No cost, completely free. About 30 people come to each session. If you have an old bike you don't want, you can also donate it to Trinity.

Katie talked about the city's second public bicycle master plan meeting, where she presented the draft and asked for comments. About 70-80 people were there. She also announced that there is a SEAC meeting next month, and there was none this month.

Tom explained briefly about the Arise Leadership Training, held in the beginning of July. If you would like to donate money to help sponsor someone to go, you can write a check to Arise, with the person's name in the memo. He also gave several announcements. There is a performance series celebrating diversity in the arts called “Out of the Margins” held at Grand St Community Arts (GSCA), 68 Grand St, from June-August. Youth Organics finished the spring session, and are starting the summer session on July 6th. The vegetable garden is up, so you can go to the garden to buy vegetables. If you would like to purchase a garden share, you can contact Rana Morris. Rebecca, the newest staff member, is jumping right into the vacant lot project. They also have some artists that are working with young people through the summer youth employment program.
Rebecca said one artist is a former architect working on the vacant lot project and is thinking about a plan for the big vacant lots on Alexander St.
Benna asked if it was possible to provide a nice place for people to just sit outside. Arbor Hill residents had expressed a desire for a nice place to sit. Maybe a vacant lot could be used for that purpose.
Tom said the Sloane St apartments had another vacant lot area they were looking into.

Matt said he could email the dates he's available to do the Neighborhood Watch, but he can't do it at the next meeting, July 28th.

Esther said the Howe Library is gorgeous, she did a walk-through the building and it's completely different. They plan to open it back up in Spring 2010.

Matt gave the crime stats for this year, comparing it to last year's. The grand total for crime is down 10% from last year. He also reminded the residents to call the police if they see anything happen. If you don't call, it didn't happen. The phone number for the police is 438-4000.

Tom said 2Deep Entertainment does 10-15 minute shows at National Night Out events.
Matt said clowns, PAL, McGruff, and police horses also visit the different National Night Out locations.

Katie said you can buy and plant a tree, if you would like. The city is willing to pay half, which is $50.
Nellie asked how much maintenance they needed.
Katie said very little maintenance, just basic things. She said they were very nice to have.
JoAnn asked what to do about a tree caught in electrical wires.
Katie said you can call National Grid and ask what they can do about it.

Esther announced they were having a block party and yard sale on July 25th, Saturday, from 10am to 3pm, on Grandview Terrace.

JoAnn called the meeting to a close and announced the next meeting date, July 28th.

Minutes - May 26, 2009

2009-06-09T22:27:00.000-04:00

SENA Meeting Minutes: May 26, 2009

Kathleen Bronson started the meeting with a presentation about how to make Albany more bicycle-friendly. She explained the different Bikeway Types, which include: Shared Lane Markings, Bike Lanes, Bicycle Blvds, and Bicycle Route Signs. She asked the community where they would like to have bike routes established. She also passed out a comment form where you could write down your suggestions and then send them to the city.
Travis asked about bike parking. Kathleen responded they were planning to put in more bike parking areas and encouraged us to write down areas we felt needed bike parking on the comment form.
Mark suggested McCarty Ave as a better street to have a bicycle route, rather than Second Ave, which is busy and narrow.
JoAnn commented that people may want bicycle routes to popular areas of employment, so they can ride their bikes to work.
Tanya asked if Albany Med and St. Peter's were involved with the bicycle plan. Kathleen responded she's not sure how involved they are, but they have been contacted about the plan.
Kathleen concluded her presentation and invited everyone to come to the Bicycle Master Plan Public Meeting #2 at the Main Library on June 18th.

Tanya Owens gave a report on the Trinity Institution. There is a new exercise and dance activity for the youth. To take the classes, you can call and sign up for free. The number is 449-5155 x 127.

JoAnn announced someone wanted to open a restaurant and tavern with extended hours until 4am on 46 Morton Ave.
JoAnn also said the Summer Youth Employment with the City of Albany is now employing youth up to age 24.

Tom announced he was looking for teens to work in YO! (Youth Organics) and especially that he needed teens with experience filmmaking to attend the Youth Film Experience Program. Tom talked about the vacant lot project Grand St Community Arts is planning to do. They plan to look at vacant lots in the South End, ask the neighbors what they would like to see happen with the vacant lot, then assemble the resources necessary to make it happen.
Tom and Noriko gave a quick report on the Arise New Leader Training Program and talked about a one week training seminar about community organizing in the Bronx at Fordham University from July 12-18. The cost is $600. They're looking to put on fundraisers to help raise the money for people to go.

JoAnn said National Night Out on August 4th is also looking for volunteers and contributions.
JoAnn said there is a vacant lot on Alexander St between 39-55 where someone is dumping construction debris, asphalt and concrete. Properties for sale are also being vandalized. The plumbing was ripped out and there was water running at 25 Alexander St.

Joe from the Fire Dept. introduced himself, says he's new to SENA. He will pass on the information about the construction debris in the vacant lot on Alexander St to DGS. Joe announced that there are at least 100 bulidings in Albany that are unrepairable and need to be knocked down. The city is having problems contacting the owners of these vacant buildings.

Nellie Morton said there was an auto body shop on Alexander St which was releasing a very strong smell. Joe responded that they'll check that because all auto body shops need to have the proper air filters.

Joe asked about a Neighborhood Watch in the South End and said Pine Hills has a very active Neighborhood Watch which we can learn from. He suggested that maybe Arise could work in conjunction with a Neighborhood Watch.

Mark Beaudoin said on 59 Second Ave there was a vacant building where the 2nd floor was not boarded up. Joe responded all vacant buildings are supposed to be completely boarded up, explained the vacant building code, and the rules owners of vacant buildings need to comply with in order to keep their property.

Sarah from Plaza 23 said the Plaza 23 truck stop is open for more fundraising events (JoAnn's church held a car wash fundraising event which was successful).

JoAnn announced that some bus stops have been pulled in the changed routes, so to make sure people are aware if they take the bus.

Scott from the library reported that he is currently buying many books for the library and that all the renovation plans with Howe are moving along.

Kevin Grinwis gave a quick update on Omni Development Corp.

The meeting was adjorned. The next meeting was scheduled for June 23, 2009.

Menu Of Resources For Techincal Assistance, Rehab Financing & Home Purchases

2009-05-26T17:00:00.003-04:00

Technical Assistance for historic properties:

Historic Albany Foundation
Office & Parts Warehouse 89 Lexington Ave. 12206 Cara Macri 465.0876 ext.12

Albany Local Development Corp.
21 Lodge St. 12207
Historic Resources Planner
Rich Nicholson, Sr. Planner 434.2532 ext.29

Rehab Financing:

Albany Community Development Agency 200 HJB 12210 434.5240
Andrew Anton, Financial Analyst 434.4125

Home Owner’s Assistance Program (HOAP)$5,000 5-year forgivable mortgage to replace items not covered by the Lead Program. In addition, up to $20,000 available in the form of a loan that addresses code items. Loan offered at 0.00% or 4.00% with a term TBD.

Albany County Rural Housing Alliance (acrha.org) 765.2425

Repair assistance 60/40 split with income max of 112% of low-income (equates to roughly 89% AMI) 1-2 family homes. 100% assistance with incomes at or below 50% AMI. RESTORE Program – seniors only (we are not allowed to work in City of Albany with the RESTORE grant as long as South End Improvement Corp. has the funding. If they are not funded in a particular year OR they are out of RESTORE money then we can step in to assist a senior homeowner below 50% AMI). 100% emergency repair program. Income limits apply – 50% AMI.

Weatherization/Stabilization Program

South End NIC 38 Catherine St. 12202 Sandra Obiedo, Dir. 436.8777

$1,000 available to low income residents through Neighborhood Improvement Corp.’s, annually for the purposes of making repairs to the home resulting in an increase in energy efficiency and regular maintenance.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Albany County

Albany County Weatherization & HEAP Programs
HEAP Office of Albany County Action Partnership (ACAP)
333 Sheridan Ave. 12206 463.3175 ext. 2

Weather stripping and caulking around doors & windows. Cleaning, testing, repairing and/or replacing heating systems. Repair of windows and/or repair of broken windows and/or outside doors. The addition of insulation to walls/ceilings. Refrigerator replacement where needed, pipe wrap and installation of pull-down attic doors.

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is designed to assist families with their utility bills.
Both programs are available to low income applicants, 60% AMI.

Ramp Program

Capital District Center for Independence, Inc.
875 Central Ave. 12206 459.6422

To provide home access to persons with mobility impairment so they can remain in their home and continue to be a part of their community. Income limits apply.

Home Purchase

Albany Community Development Agency 200 HJB 12210 434.5240

Andrew Anton, Financial Analyst 434.4125
Home Acquisition Program (HAP): $14,900 5-yr. forgivable mortgage available to home purchasers at 80% AMI or below and assets below $40,000.00. May be used for one to four family owner occupied homes.

Affordable Housing Partnership (ahphome.org) Susan Cotner, Dir. 255 Orange St. 12210 434.1730

Individual Development Account (IDA): A 4:1 Matching savings program sponsored by FHLB of New York. Participating lenders include: SEFCU, M&T, Pioneer, HSBC, NBT Bank and First Niagara. Maximum grant $7,500. Minimum savings term 10 months, maximum savings term 24 months. Income limits apply. Mortgage must be obtained from participating bank.

Capital Housing Assistance Program (CHAP) $7,500 for down payment & closing costs.
Income limits: Household Size 1-2: $35,300 3 or more $40,595.
This program is designed for use with: HSBC’s SHOP CAPITAL PROGRAM $3,500 closing cost assistance or a .75% interest rate reduction 785.0300 Paul Hurley, Sales Mgr.

Albany Local Development Corp.

Midtown Homeownership Program
Ashley D’Antonio, Planner 434.2532 ext. 26
$5,000 5 yr. forgivable loan (grant) without income limits. Applicants must be employees of: Albany Medical Ctr., Albany Law School, Coll. of Pharmacy, Coll. Of St. Rose, Sage Colleges or Univ. of Albany. No income limits. Buyers must buy within a specific area.

OR

Citzens Bank

Midtown Colleges & Universities Neighborhood Plus Mortgage Program

Lisa Stepp, Mortgage Officer 877.9810
Applicants that are not employees of the aforementioned participating employers must obtain their mortgage from Citizens Bank and buy their home within the same specific area as referred to above. No income limits.

Capital District Habitat for Humanity (www.CapitalDistrictHabitat.org) Steve Haggerty, Exec. Dir. 454 N.Pearl St. 12204 462.2993

Build simple, decent houses with donated money, materials and labor, and then sell these newly constructed homes to partner families, providing a 0.00% 20 year mortgage and below-market-value sales price. Income limits apply: 40-60% AMI, subject to application and approval.

NYS-OMRDD “Home of Your Own” Ed Kuta, Coordinator of Homeownership Services 473.1973

Grants of up to $15,000. Funds can be used for down payment, closing costs or to reduce the bank mortgage on a single family home. Eligible households must be a first time homebuyer and include a person who is developmentally disabled. Income limit: at or below 51% AMI.

Library Renovation Updates

2009-04-30T22:30:00.002-04:00

The Albany Public Library continues to move forward with a $29.1 million Branch Improvement Plan - the first comprehensive infrastructure project in its history. The plan calls for renovations of three existing branches - Pine Hills, Delaware, and John A. Howe - along with construction of two new branches - John J. Bach on New Scotland Ave and Arbor Hill/West Hill on Henry Johnson Blvd. Albany voters showed support for the plan in 2007 when they overwhelmingly approved a referendum to fund the relocation, renovation, and construction of five branch libraries in the city.

Designs for these state of the art, fully accessible branch libraries include community meeting spaces; expanded collection spaces for adults, teens, and children; public computing areas of adults, teens, and children; and small group tutoring/study rooms. All of these features were suggested by the community through an extensive input process that formed the foundation of the plan.

The three renovation projects were designed by the Albany-based architectural firm of CS Arch and are being built by Latham-based Bunkoff General Contractors. The two new building projects were designed by Hom and Goldman architects of NYC and are being built by Albany-based Sano-Rubin Construction, Inc. The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York is serving as project manager at all five projects in the Branch Improvement Plan.

Albany Public Library is committed to building "green" branch libraries that are energy efficient, environmentally responsible, and healthy for customers and staff. Green building is the best, most responsible use of taxpayers' money because energy efficient libraries are more cost effective to operate and healthier for the environment. All five projects are using green design and construction principles to be environmentally friendly and energy efficient. All five buildings will be evaluated by the U.S. Green Building Council in pursuit of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design(LEED) designations. The three renovated buildings are expected to achieve LEED certified status, while the two new buildings are planned to achieve LEED silver status.

Pine Hills Library
517 Western Ave
Renovation began in Fall 2008
Opening targeted for late 2009
Two-story, 19,000 sq ft buliding

Delaware Library
331 Delaware Ave
Renovation began in Fall 2008
Opening targeted for late 2009
Single-story, 11,000 sq ft building

John A. Howe Library
Schuyler and Broad Streets
Renovation began in Fall 2008
Opening is expected in early 2010
71-year-old building being completely rehabilitated, including restoration of historic windows

Arbor Hill/West Hill Library
Henry Johnson Blvd between First and Second Streets
Construction began in Spring 2009
Opening expected in Summer 2010
Single-story, 12,000 sq ft building

John J. Bach Library
New Scotland Ave next to Engine 11 Fire Station
Construction began in Spring 2009
Opening expected in Summer 2010
Single-story, 8,500 sq ft building

Hazardous Waste

2009-04-02T21:28:00.002-04:00

The hazardous waste days will run from 4pm to 7pm and will take place at the City of Albany Rapp Road Landfill. At no time should hazardous waste be placed curbside. Any questions regarding the Household Hazardous Waste program, please call the Department of General Services at 434-2489.

Albany County Weatherization and HEAP Programs

2009-04-02T21:02:00.002-04:00

Weatherization Program:
Home weatherization saves energy dollars, increases comfort in a home, reduces our dependence on foreign oil, revitalizes neighborhoods, and provides safe, affordable housing.

The weatherization assistance program consists of four steps.
1. Application to determine income eligibility.
2. Energy audit of the home to identify specific needs and energy saving priorities.
3. Weatherization of the home.
4. Post-weatherization inspection to assure quality and effectiveness.

The services include, but ar not limited to:
- weatherstripping and caulking around doors and windows
- cleaning, testing, repairs, or replacement of heating systems
- repair of windows and/or repair of broken windows and/or outside doors
- the addition of insulation to walls or ceilings
- refrigerator replacement where needed
- miscellaneous minor repairs

Who does the work?
Local service providers supply high-quality work performed by skilled personnel. Some providers use their own crew, and some hire local private contractors.

Is there any charge for weatherization services?
All services are provided without obligation to the occupant of the home. However, owners of rental buildings are required to invest funds toward the cost of the weatherization services.

Who is eligible for weatherization services?
Eligibility is based on household income relative to federal low-income guidelines. If a household contains a member who receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Public Assistance, Food Stamps, or Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) benefits, the household is considered automatically eligible for weatherization services.

Where can you apply?
Albany Community Action Partnership (ACAP)
333 Sheridan Ave
Albany, NY
(518) 463-3175

-----------------------------
HEAP Program:
The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is aimed at assisting income eligivle households to defray the high cost of energy bills. The program can assist in preventing termination of services.

Who is eligible?
Households that meet government eligibility guidelines. Call your local HEAP office for current guideline information.

What information do I need?
You must bring documentation regarding proof of residence, household composition, vendor relationship, income and resources.

Please contact the local office for more information.
HEAP Office of ACAP
333 Sheridan Ave
Albany, NY
(518) 463-3175

Minutes - August 26, 2008

2008-09-28T13:07:00.003-04:00

Lt. William Rahm, Albany Fire Dept, reported #3 Alexander and several other vacant buildings were boarded up.

Nellie Morton brought to SENA's attention a situation on Alexander St. regarding the new owner of 91 Alexander St. The property was zoned residential, but the new owner said he will make it commercial and has retained a lawyer to help him achieve his aim. Most residents on Alexander would prefer that property to stay residential.

Benna Eldridge felt SENA as an organization should stand up against such an individual seeking a variance to make such a residential zone commercial.

Because Kathleen Bronson from the City of Albany Planning Dept. was present, questions were raised concerning the Albany Comprehensive Plan and the status of previous plans like the Capital South Plan. Is there any programs, for example, on the suggestion that a community college be developed in the South End? (apparently not). Has there been any progress on the Howe Library renovation? (yes, a building behind Howe was taken down). What is happening?

A number of construction projects are going on as well as basic efforts at neighborhood stabilization. Owners of vacant buildings are being identified through the block-by-block initiative and efforts to make owners accountable for the condition of their property are moving forward. The regulatory agencies are more visibly active than they have been.

Other topics discussed included SRO's, group homes in Delmar, the changing demographics of the homeless (now many mothers and children are homeless - there simply is not enough affordable housing); also the huge need for GED instruction.

Announcements were made for back-to-school fairs August 27th from 4-7pm at Union Missionary Baptist Church and September 6th from 11am-4pm at Giffen Elementary.

Our National Night Out participation was deemed a success. President JoAnn Morton said she would check with Rev.Covington regarding continuing permission to hold our SENA meetings at this location.

It was decided the next meeting would be Tuesday, September 23rd.

Minutes - July 22, 2008

2008-09-28T12:53:00.002-04:00

President JoAnn Morton summarized all the preparations for the joint South End and Mansions neighborhood participation in the upcoming National Night Out event (August 7th). Vice President Mark Beaudoin said membership forms for SENA would be ready for that evening.

Kevin Grinwis and Ron Gardner explained efforts that the Albany Housing Authority was making to employ local people, women and minorities to work on construction projects that are underway in the South End. Some 200 applicants have been screened and some people have been placed.

Police Officer Matt Montesano reported there had been car larcenies (iPods and other items had been taken). One should not leave valuables within view - even visible loose change can invite theft. More vacant houses had been vandalized to extract copper pipe; constructions sites had had tools and materials stolen. Forms to register bicycles were available.

Christie Ray Marchetti of the American Cancer Society spoke of free screenings and free treatment for those without health insurance. Transportation to treatment sites was also available.

The meeting closed earlier than usual because a number of members wished to attend a program where Attorney General Andrew Cuomo was speaking.

Minutes - June 24, 2008

2008-07-22T19:43:00.002-04:00

Police Officer Matt Montesano's report: 1) There were a number of promotions within the leadership of the Albany Police Dept.
2) There were car burglaries on Third Ave and on Morton Ave.
3) It is possible to participate in Albany Police Dept's "Bicycle Lock Registration Program" - a theft prevention/recovery program - after filling out and signing a registration card and sending it to the APD. Then you place a special sticker on the left side of the bicycle. If your bike is stolen, notify the police. Bicycles with stickers on them can be stopped by law enforcement and the operator is questioned if he/she is legally authorized to operate on the bicycle. Additionally, the bicycle can be held by law enforcement if proper ownership cannot be determined at the time of the stop.

There was a discussion of how to participate as a neighborhood association in relation to the upcoming "National Night Out" (Tue. Aug 5). Should we do it jointly with the Mansion NA? In conjunction with the Lincoln Park NA? Should we hold it at the little park on Eagle St? JoAnn was going to draft letters to Sam's Club, BJ's, Rite Aid, and Price Chopper asking for donations for the BBQ and refreshments. Howe librarian Scott Jarzonbek thought it would be good if the Bookmobile could be present for the event. Mrs.Nellie Morton and Carmela Triolo volunteered to help JoAnn in preparing for the event.

Bill Rahm (Albany Fire Dept) said 3 buildings had been taken down on Delaware St. He also mentioned there had been a lot of break-ins of vacant buildings to steal copper. Aluminum siding has also been stolen. Carmela Triolo suggested making a statewide proposal to the legislature, which if enacted, would require ID-ing people selling copper.

Matt Scheidt, a new resident of the South End, residing at 76 Bassett St, appealed to SENA for help in getting a zoning variance so that he could modify/improve his property (at a hearing, his request had been "tabled" by the judge). JoAnn Morton offered to prepare a letter of support for him on behalf of SENA.

Scott Jarzonbek has recently become a board member of the Schuyler Mansion and will be representing them (as well as the library in its temporary location at the Albany Housing Authority) at SENA meetings.

Kevin Grinwis of Omni Housing reported that Ron Gardner's outreach to find qualified local contractors and work applicants for the construction projects proceeding in the South End was continuing. He had posted signs with his phone number at strategic locations and had been interviewing prospects.

Vice President Mark Beaudoin spoke of a chance encounter with Albany County District Attorney David Soares, at a Capital District Council of Churches Awards program at St.Anne's and St.John's Church. After Mark identified himself as being with SENA, Mr.Soares offered his support of a Neighborhood Watch if SENA was to initiate one. Mary Beaudoin and Noriko Chaumont might be ones to initiate such a "Walking Neighborhood Watch".

Gervacio Guevara and his son Trueon were introduced as new residents of the South End.

Regarding SENA's Job Fair, it was decided Sat. Aug 23 might be the best date and that to hold it at Rev.Covington's church might be best. Someone said it would be good to know exactly: who are the employers in the South End? For example, what are all the companies connected with the Port.

It was decided Tuesday July 22, 2008 would be the next meeting.

Minutes - May 20, 2008

2008-07-08T17:50:00.003-04:00

After the reading of, and acceptance of the minutes from the Tuesday, April 22nd meeting, President Joann Morton introduced Darren Scott, of the Albany Housing Authority.

Mr. Scott's topic was employment opportunities for residents and for minority and/or women owned businesses in connection with the approximately $20 million worth of housing renovation and construction projects they have underway in the South End.
Mr. Scott called attention to the presence of Kevin Grinwis of Omni Housing, which is partnering with Albany Housing Authority on these projects.

Next he introduced Ron Gardner, who has been working with them to help them meet their quotas for hiring minorities and women.
Ron reported they were at 15% of their 20% participation goal.
"Who can we contact regarding available opportunities?" asked Pres. Morton.
Ron Gardner himself is the main person to contact. (He can be reached at 436-1969 or 376-3333) Darren Scott can also be contacted at 641-7536.
Ron emphasized that he felt passionately about his work. Also, because most contracts require city and/or state certification requirements, he said those interested should contact him as soon as possible so he could guide them through a possibly lengthy process so they can qualify.

Next, a representative from the American Cancer Society said their "Road to Recovery" program needed volunteer drivers to drive the cancer patients to get their treatments.

Carolyn McLaughlin then introduced a segment discussing Horizon Center's criminal re-entry program, which has been in the South End for 25 years, and at their Elizabeth St. facility since 1985. Carolyn stated that she herself is on Horizon's board and believes in the program.
To counter community fears about living so close to a criminal population re-entering society, the director of the center as well as representatives of the State Parole Board emphasized the rigorous measures taken to insure security.

Finally, Paul Richer of Capital District Habitat for Humanity spoke of the 4 upcoming "Orientation Sessions" for anyone working to possibly purchase a Habitat home.

It was decided the next meeting of SENA would be Tuesday, June 24th, 2008.

Minutes - April 22, 2008

2008-06-24T20:44:00.003-04:00

JoAnn Morton, president of SENA, called the meeting to order.

Minutes for the March 25th meeting were read and approved.

The first speaker was Tim Burke, representing the Albany Public Library. He gave an update on the branch improvement effort underway. A party marking the closing of Howe Library was held last Thursday. A temporary library space for this area should hopefully open in about 3 weeks or so at the Albany Housing Authority administrative building on South Pearl St. Construction on Howe is expected to begin late May or early June. The Pine Hills branch is already closed. The renovation on these 2 branches and the former funeral home on Delaware Ave that will become the new Delaware Branch are "10-12 month projects." Hopefully by springtime 2009 all three branches will be open for service.
Construction of two new buildings - the John J. Bach branch (on New Scotland Ave) and the Arbor Hill branch (to be built on the vacant lot between 1st and 2nd St) is slated to begin late July or early August and should take 12-14 months to complete.
By the end of 2009 all 5 of these branches should be open.

A question from Mac Mowbray (South End property owner): can we be assured that there won't be cost overruns and that the project won't end up costing twice as much or more than the $29 million?
Answer: Dasny is our construction manager. They were chosen because of their experience and expertise. They know we don't have any extra money and that everything needs to be kept within budget. There are disincentives in the contracts to counter delays and cost overruns.
Questions were raised about the historic Howe windows and whether they might be stored somewhere. Also whether there will be adequate maintenance of the Howe Library after it is reopened. The window issue will not remain unresolved before construction begins; and it is the intention of the library system to maintain its buildings well.
Mr.Burke spoke also of the proposed 2009 Library Tax levy (reflecting the 4.13% budget increase) and the May 20 election for library trustee (the 3 candidates: Lois Parsons, Jose Lopez, and Charles Carr).

The Youth Organics project was brought up by president JoAnn Morton. Yoko Chaumont, who was accepted into its spring program, spoke briefly about it. It is for youth 14-17, and is a 6 week - 3 times a week job. Besides doing organic gardening, there is a community outreach aspect and a cooking lesson component. The summer program is still open for applicants.

Steve Longo of the Albany Housing Authority gave updates on the 40 unit Eagle Court project. The required archeological digs have been completed and the project should be done by the end of December. A 2007 allocation of funds from NY State is being used to develop 30 more units on Morton and 10 on Broad and 4th.

Matt Montesano: At 200 Grand St. on April 9th at 6pm there was an incident of a multiple stabbing with a kitchen knife.
A burglary on Sloan St resulted in the loss of a laptop, a DVD player, a gold ring, etc. Car burglaries resulted in loss of a cell phone, a SONY digital camera, credit cards, $500 in CDs etc. Buildings have been broken into for renovator's tools. Also copper has been stolen from some buildings.
Matt attended training for correct installation of car seats (94% are installed incorrectly). Let him know if anyone needs help in this area. Also there is a limited number of car seats available if someone you know needs one and doesn't have one.

President Morton spoke of incidents of graffiti on Alexander St, Delaware St, Clinton St, and on the Duraclean building.

Benna Eldridge gave an update on Trinity's job fair. Many employers were participating and 1500 fliers were being distributed.

Christie Ray-Marchetti, a representative of the National Cancer Society, spoke of upcoming screenings at Albany Med on Saturday May 10, 8-11:30am.

Next meeting: Tuesday May 20th, 6pm, at Crenshaw Memorial Center.

Volunteer Drivers - American Cancer Society

2008-06-01T21:33:00.002-04:00

The Capital Region American Cancer Society is looking for volunteers to drive cancer patients to get their treatments (some need treatments 5 days a week). If you would be interested in helping to drive one of these patients, even just one time, it would be greatly appreciated.

For more information please email southendna@gmail.com

Thank you.

SmartWorks Senior Services

2008-06-01T20:57:00.002-04:00

SmartWorks- get rewired, not retired

SmartWorks, the Capital Region's volunteer leadership project, is looking for retired professionals who want a rewarding, stimulating way to stay engaged and involved with their community, careers, and peers.

SmartWorks, a program of Senior Services of Albany run by returning-retiree Nikki Smith, pairs retired professionals with non-profits looking to accomplish specific projects within their agencies. It's a win-win situation, a retiree takes on a new challenge, and a non-profit benefits from the skill and experience of a seasoned professional.

To date, SmartWorks has placed 39 volunteers in projects at more than 20 nonprofits including The Law and Justice Center, The Albany Institute of History and Art, and Women's Employment and Resource Center.

SmartWorks positions are flexible, and each project has a specific start and end date. Projects are professional in nature and often require a high level of expertise. Past projects have included implementing a management plan, developing a marketing strategy, creating financial workshops, and coordinating a major fundraising event.

SmartWorks is now recruiting a new set of volunteers for projects around the Capital District.

If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity, call Nikki at 472-2714.

******
Senior Services of Albany is a non-profit, public service organization (501-c-3) serving seniors and their caregivers in the Capital Region for over 55 years. Senior Services of Albany operates several Senior Centers, Meals on Wheels, and provides information and support services, caregiver services, transportation and Adult Day Care. Learn more at www.seniorservicesofalbany.com

Homeowner Rehabilitation Program (HARP)

2008-06-01T20:11:00.000-04:00

SOUTH END IMPROVEMENT CORPORATION

HARP Grant Program

Let Us Help You With Your Repairs!!

Contact SEIC at (518) 436-8777

Requirements:

* Must own and reside in your own home located within the South End of Albany. For this grant, the boundaries are Madison Ave to the North, Trinity Place to the East, the City line to the South, and Delaware Ave to the West.
* Must meet the following HUD income guidelines. This number represents 40-60% of area median income:

# 1 Person Household: $29,640
# 2 Person Household: $33,900
# 3 Person Household: $38,100
# 4 Person Household: $42,360
# 5 Person Household: $45,720
# 6 Person Household: $49,140

* Participants will be required to complete one of the workshops offered by the Affordable Housing Partnership (AHP). Two options are “Maintaining Your Home” and “How to Hire a Contractor.”

For more information please visit our website at

www.seicalbany.org

Meeting Minutes

2008-04-24T17:00:00.013-04:00

Minutes - October 26, 2010

Minutes - July 28, 2009

Minutes – June 23, 2009

Minutes - May 26, 2009

Minutes - August 26, 2008

Minutes - July 22, 2008

Minutes - June 24, 2008

Minutes - May 20, 2008

Minutes - April 22, 2008

Minutes - March 25, 2008

Minutes - February 26, 2008

Minutes - January 22, 2008

Minutes - December 17, 2007

Minutes - November 27, 2007

Minutes - March 25, 2008

2008-04-24T16:32:00.002-04:00

SENA meeting at the Howe Library at 6pm

Darren Scott (from Albany Housing Authority) - He has been with Albany Housing Authority about 14 years. He has a background as an architect. Finds working with people as opposed to designing more interesting and also more exacting. "Revitalization is not just bricks and mortar" he stated, and "the Capital South Plan is the road map for revitalization." He discussed the Eagle Court renovation effort where living conditions had been extremely squalid. Means had been provided to move everyone out; what had been 60 apartments was being reduced to 42 apartments.
He also discussed the Jared Holt project, the planned take down of at least 2 of the 3 Lincoln Towers; and a proposed educational campus which would have a 2 year preparatory college (offering 2 year degrees leading to good-paying jobs as well as feeding students into other institutions of higher learning in the area). To accomplish such a vision would require getting more partners and more funding.
In response to JoAnn Morton's question "What can SENA do?" Mr.Scott replied "Something SENA could possibly help with would be a 'greening of vacant lots' (in coordination with the City Planning Dept). This would be a temporary measure to take away the more obvious eyesores.
Carolyn McLaughlin said "Sarah will send a list of all the South End vacant lots." It was also announced that Monday, May 12th would be a day when large amounts of garbage could be picked up from the South End.

Steve Haggerty, executive director of the Capital District Habitat for Humanity, was the next speaker. After building 15 homes in North Albany, Steve asked the mayor "what next?" The mayor put him in touch with Monique Wahba, who was coordinating the Capital South Plan. This has led to the construction of houses on O'Dell St. The hope is to build about 40 houses in the South End over the next 5 years. To build a house on O'Dell costs $75,000.
In the past, Habitat for Humanity has built 5 houses on Stephen St (these are the brightly painted houses).
To qualify to own a Habitat house, a family needs to meet requirements laid down by the Family Selection Committee (there are income requirements, a "need for housing" requirement, and an ability to repay requirement). Additionally, a family needs to contribute some 350 hours of "sweat equity" volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity. A 2002 list was made up for the South End composed of 20 eligible families, but these families can no longer be located.
Habitat for Humanity operates a store("The Restore") on 454 N.Pearl St. which is open Friday and Saturday from 9am-2pm. All items in the store have been donated.

JoAnn Morton reported that Giffen Elementary had made no commitment on a proposed SENA Job Fair as of yet.

Benna Eldridge of the Trinity Institution reported that Trinity's Job Fair scheduled for Thursday, April 24th was going ahead and that 20 volunteers from Seina College would canvas the South End in support of the Fair.

Police Officer Matt Montesano reported that a couple of cars had been broken into for the GPS systems. Also there were some burglaries of copper piping from houses.
On Wednesday, March 12th a shooting took place near 148 Broad St. A grey 4-door sedan was apparently involved.

Scott Jarzombek, the librarian at Howe, reported he had an excellent clerk now, named Tori, who was amazing.

Next SENA meeting: Tuesday, April 22nd at Crenshaw Memorial on Morton Ave.

Minutes - February 26, 2008

2008-03-25T16:19:00.000-04:00

Minutes From SENA Meeting On Tuesday February 26, 2008 (Howe Library, 6pm)

Minutes from January 22, 2008 read. Vice President, Mark Beaudoin, noted that several things had changed since they were announced at the January meeting: 1) The closing of the Howe Library would now be in mid-April instead of on March 15. 2) The Trinity Institution would be on Thursday April 24 instead of on March 27. 3) Because of the later closing of Howe, the March 25 SENA meeting could be held at Howe Library.

The question of where the SENA meeting for April could meet came up. Most likely the meeting could be held in Rev. Covington's church (Union Missionary Baptist, next to the Courthouse on Morton) at the Crenshaw Memorial Center. Rev.Covington had offered to make his church available for meetings at an earlier SENA meeting.

Regarding SENA's upcoming Job Fair, the idea was put forward to possibly partner with the Giffen Elementary PTA. (Kenneth Braswell - when he published his "South End Scene" newspaper - had held a Job Fair at Giffen).

President JoAnn Morton praised Yoko Chaumont's work as SENA's webmaster (southendna.blogspot.com). Emails to SENA can be addressed to: southendna@gmail.com

Lt. Matt Montesano gave a brief Public Safety update: Jorge Ventura, an individual out on parole, residing on Elizabeth St, was arrested in connection with several robberies in the area: the Holiday Inn Express, Mr.Subb (next to Delaware Library), the Stewart's on Morton Ave, and the McDonald's on S.Pearl St.
Central Square larcenies were linked to a Leonard Farmer of Lark St. A number of North Albany area burglaries have occurred but remain unsolved at this point.
To discourage trespassing on residents' property in the South End, a property owner can participate (for a small fee) in something called the "Trespass Affidavit Program". The Program would allow the arrest by police of unauthorized persons on one's property. To participate, one should contact Jessica Blaine Lewis at the DA's office.
The Citizen's Police Academy will have a 13-week program (3 - 4 hours one day each week, usually Tue.) educating about activities of the Albany Police. Information will be available on the Albany Police Dept. website.

Melissa Bucher, whose newsletter has a 2000 copies monthly circulation in the area, offered to print in the newsletter announcements for upcoming SENA meetings and programs such as the Job Fair.

On Saturday March 8, an Empowerment Fair was scheduled at Giffen Elementary. Carolyn McLaughlin would be the featured presenter. It was suggested SENA might wish a presence at the Fair.

Bill Rahm (of the Fire Dept.) introduced himself as the replacement for Bill Jones (who had reported on Fire Dept. matters monthly at previous SENA meetings). Bill Jones has retired.

Carolyn McLaughlin, the Albany Common Council Majority Leader, was the evening's featured speaker. She commended SENA's work over the past year (it developed out of a Quality of Life Committee), and encouraged everyone to continue their efforts.
She spoke of demolitions which have taken place in Ward 2, the displaced Lawson family (now living at 15 Elizabeth) whose Alexander St property had been destroyed by surrounding collapsing buildings, the fact that Habitat for Humanity was finishing up a third house on Odell St and may have a long range plan of building up to 30 homes in the South End.
The Capital South Plan appears to be sitting on the table for now. Monique Wahba, who was coordinator of the project for Albany's Dept of Planning and Development, is now at home taking care of her children. Someone needs to take her place to move it forward. Council woman McLaughlin also spoke about a Morton Ave project, the Jared Holt project (24 units on Broad St, which needs more funding) and the demolition of 4 buildings on South Pearl St including the Knitting Factory, which had been 35 years vacant. The New York City owners had allowed the buildings to deteriorate so much that they had become a public safety issue. A decision was made and they had been quickly demolished.

Guest speaker Aaron Mair (of the NYS Dept. of Health) reported that zip code 12202 (which covers most of the South End) has the most cases of respiratory illness in the area. Aerial photos reveal at times an orange haze of particulates in the air of the South End. Pollution from the Port of Albany, highway 787, the freight trains, tug boats, etc contribute to a high rate of environmentally caused asthma.

For upcoming meetings, it was suggested SENA invite the South End Legislators whose districts include the South End to come to hear residents' concerns. Also Lucille McKnight should be invited again to come to a SENA meeting.

Resident Emily Collins spoke of a Public Art Exhibition presented by Grand Street Community Arts. Artists can submit work proposals beginning March 1st to be displayed on the exterior of GSCA's Church on the corner of Grand St. and Madison Ave. See www.grandarts.org or call 396-5401 for more information. Deadline is March 28th.

Next meeting to be scheduled on March 25th, 2008 at the Howe Library, starting at 6pm.

Parent and Community Empowerment Conference - Notes

2008-03-25T14:44:00.001-04:00

These are notes taken from the conference at Giffen on Saturday March 8th, 2008:

Parent and Community Empowerment Conference
At Giffen Elementary School

Welcome Address, Beverly L. Ivey, Principal
- Why are we here? We, the South End, aren't succeeding as highly as we should.
- The parents, teachers, and community have to work to ensure the children have a bright future.
- The parents' responsibility is to be in the PTA, check child's homework and schoolwork, talk with their teachers, have library cards, take trips to the museum and other educational places, don't let kids be on the computer or TV too much, have a reading time every day, and make sure they're eating nutritious meals and get enough sleep.
- The teachers need to make the material being taught fun and challenging. Make the kids excited and really want to come to school each day.
- The community can support the children and schools by volunteering, reading to kids, mentoring, helping them out, and by voting for people that support schools so they have enough of a budget to get what they need to improve them.

1st Keynote Speaker, Hon. Carolyn McLaughlin
- We have to re-energize ourselves. We can't do anything unless we all come together, the South End community needs to work together to grow.
- We're like a table. A table has a top and four legs. The South End as a whole is like the top of the table. Without its four legs, the top won't stand. It'll just roll or fall over. So it needs its legs. The students represent one leg. Parents represent another leg. The school district and teachers represents the third leg, and the community leaders and residents represent the last leg. Every part is vital for the table to function properly. Everyone needs to fulfill their responsibility.
- Many times you don't know the child can't read or needs glasses. They were never asked to read out loud or to answer problems on the board. We need to read to our children and communicate with them. Reading is very important and helps them many things. If you want to travel but can't, you can read a book. A book can take you anywhere.

1st Seminar - Building a Loving and Strong Home, Ms. Jacquelina Johnson, 2nd grade teacher
- She started teaching because she didn't want to work a 9-5 job. She wanted to get back earlier to spend more time with her family and children. She started out as a tutor and substitute before becoming a teacher.
- She was a single mother, but had strong family ties, so she didn't do it by herself. Her family helped her out a lot.
- Teach a child in the way he/she should go and they won't go astray.
- You need to be a role model for your children.
- Need to have consistency.
- Meet your child's physical and emotional needs.
- If you don't discipline them, they're disciplined through the course.
- The children should know discipline so when they walk into the classroom, the teacher shouldn't have to deal with that. They should just be free to teach.
- The goal is to have a loving and strong home. In order to have a loving and strong home, we need to have: patience, trust, understanding, give the child choices, a sense of humor, endurance, a challenge, be flexible, be realistic, have some R&R time, consistency (routines, good habits), honesty, constant learning, respect, quality time, discipline, communication, sacrifice, responsibility, be nurturing, be open to change, and lots of LOVE! Factors that affect these things are your job, extracurricular activities, support you get, your conscience, teachers, role models, feelings, parental demands, time, favoritism, being able to change and not do bad things your parents did to you, balance, firmness, spirituality and faith, and books you read. It's a lot, but the rewards are great, such as seeing your child graduate. Especially from college.
- You can get books at the library for free or go to flea markets and garage sales to get them cheaply. Read a lot!

2nd Seminar - Preserving and Protecting Emotionally Healthy Families, Noelene Smith, Social Worker
- This is about trauma, the causes, how to identify it, and what we can do about it.
- The definition of trauma: a tragic experience that causes shock, disrupts psychological health, can occur once or be continuous, and often having long-lasting effects.
-Causes of trauma include: physical or sexual abuse, divorce, mental illness, sudden homelessness, poverty, displacement (child taken away), death of a loved one, injury (to themselves or others), violence, environmental issues (fire, earthquake), and war.
- The anger because of the traumas are many times the cause of bad behaviors.
- If no discipline is working and the children are still misbehaving, we need to look deeper and many times it's because of traumatic experiences.
- A child misbehaving is like a cry for help.
- Symptoms and behaviors of trauma victims include: anger, isolation, rebellion, numbness, change in social and emotional behavior, withdrawal and shutting down, sexual promiscuity, alcoholism and drug problems, bed wetting, depression, loss of concentration, looking for love in the wrong places, hyperactivity, emotional detachment, despair (don't care), helplessness, and low self esteem.
- When they go through a trauma or are abused, women tend to think it's their fault and hurt themselves and men tend to hurt others.
- Albany County got a $6.9 million grant for young people. But they're mostly only treating white kids. There's a lot of discrimination still, and many inner city black kids aren't treated and aren't getting what they need.
- Many children are misdiagnosed with adult problems because we're tired and give up. We need to work harder to look deeper because many times the treatment is wrong or it's not necessary.
- Many children don't want to work with social workers or people trying to help them because they assume there's a problem when they come and are upset. They think they're going to take them away from their parents or they're the reasons their parents can't get jobs or other things.
- What we can do to treat them: little medications, only when necessary. Medications are only temporary things, but a behavior modification lasts. There's often no coordination with social workers and psychologists helping the children. Someone needs to be in charge of coordinating things. They need to be able to provide them with treatment, the staff should be trained to recognize trauma, parents and teachers need to communicate, have a personalized education plan (PEP), call a social worker for treatment for a child instead of calling the police when there's a problem. They need to get better instead of be punished.

2nd Keynote Speaker, Rev. Dr. Damone Paul Johnson
- Strong families = strong communities = strong nation and world.
- Harvard did a study to predict how many juvenile delinquents there would be in the future. The similarities between juvenile delinquents include: no parental involvement or awareness, no discipline, and the parents don't know who the child's friends are. Those kinds of kids are more likely to be juvenile delinquents.
- One way they judge how many prisons they should build is by looking at the 3rd grade reading levels.
- If we can predict who will be juvenile delinquents, shouldn't we do something to prevent it?
- 60% of babies are born to single mothers.
- 69% of African Americans are from single mothers.
- Fathers spend an average of 7 minutes a day with their children.
- A six month old baby had a fever that wouldn't break, so they took him to the hospital. They found out he had six broken bones caused by the father on three different occasions. Nowadays manhood is judged by their "hotness" and anger. The hotness and anger is from being so broken inside.
- You have to change roles when someone in the family goes down. If the father leaves, you have to step up and replace it. Be flexible and ready to change roles when needed.
- Ask not why the father left, but why the mother stayed. Why they care for their children and work so hard to keep a roof over their heads.
- In Mexico City, Mexico, there was a very bad accident where there was a bus full of people that went off the road and fell 100 feet down a cliff. Only 2 people survived -- a 9 year old and a 15 year old. The 9 year old had a broken leg and hit her head. When asked how she survived with a broken leg and head injury when the bus was spinning round and round, she said she felt like her grandmother was embracing her. She kept her safe. So even when your life is going round and round, they're broken on the inside, and their head is messed up, you can still embrace your children. That's how you'll survive.

Minutes - January 22, 2008

2008-03-25T14:09:00.001-04:00

SENA Minutes For Tuesday January 22nd, 2008

Those in attendance: JoAnn Morton, Matt Montesano, Pete Piazza, William Pendleton, Tanya Owens, Nellie Morton, Kazuko Walton, Robert Chaumont, Noriko Chaumont, Yoko Chaumont, Mark Beaudoin, Marie-Elise Beaudoin, Melissa Bucher.

JoAnn Morton (President) led the meeting.

Minutes for December 17, 2007 read and approved.

Scott Jarzonbek: The Howe Library will be closing in April. There will be a party and Silent Auction on the last day. The library will reopen in the Housing Authority Building on South Pearl Street. How much time between closing and reopening is not clear, yet. There is no written agreement. There is some possibility there may be story hours in the Schuyler Mansion. Two branches (Howe and Pine Hills) will be closing at the same time. Some 5,000 books from Howe will be going into storage. There was some discussion of the Howe library windows (whether they should be restored or simply replaced). For Scott, the #1 issue was being sure the windows kept out outside noise.
After the Howe Library closes, where should SENA meet? Would it be possible to have the April 22, etc meetings at Rev.Covington's church of which Nellie Morton is a member?

The major part of the meeting was devoted to planning for an upcoming Job Fair. Tanya Owens (of the Trinity Institution) explained about their upcoming job fair (to be held Thursday April 24th, 10am - 4pm). They are estimating attendance of about 20 vendors. Prior to the Fair, they have a "Job Club" giving training in job application skills: filling out application forms, the job search process, practice being interviewed, how to dress, etc. There should be interviews on site. Trinity is open to partnering with SENA, should SENA wish to participate.
Bill Pendleton and Pete Piazza discussed aspects to consider when planning a job fair, setting a date, etc. February (black history month) is probably not a good time. April might be best. Times Union is holding a big Job Fair on April 2nd. Organizations seeking to fulfill their diversity requirements may be attracted to come to a SENA job fair. In mid-March, NY State will be having a Career Fair at the Convention Center. The Urban League has a mentoring program (helping individuals prepare to get work).
Should the SENA job fair be held at Giffen Elementary? Mark Beaudoin and Tanya Owens would connect to exchange information, ideas, etc regarding job fair partnering.

Matt Montesano discussed car larcenies and prevention, and the usefulness of having a "neighborhood watch". He suggested inviting representatives from the DA's office and Dept. of General Services to our meeting.

Should we have a SENA outreach activity at the Library Closing Party?

An officer's meeting was proposed before the next general SENA meeting on Feb. 26th.

Useful Links

2008-03-08T21:10:00.020-05:00

Minutes - December 17, 2007

2008-01-23T16:31:00.000-05:00

Minutes for SENA Meeting: December 17, 2007

Those in attendance:
Carmela Triolo,
Nellie Morton,
Sandra Obiedo (with South End Improvement Corp.),
Bill Jones,
Matt Montesano,
Mark Beaudoin,
Robert Chaumont,
Noriko Chaumont,
Yoko Chaumont,
Marie-Elise Beaudoin,
Carolyn McLaughlin,
JoAnn Morton,
Scott Jarzonbek,
Rev. Victor Covington.

Joann Morton (President) led the meeting.
1) Regarding an official address for SENA: we were given permission to receive mail at 38 Catherine St. Albany, NY 12202.
2) Volunteers for a Job Fair Comittee: Mark Beaudoin, Rev. Victor Covington, Mrs. Nellie Morton and Carmela Triolo.
Trinity Institution's Job Fair is March 26th. Do we wish to do it jointly with them? Do we wish to hold our own and perhaps cater to different people?

Scott said the library was actively looking for people to take the civil service exams for library clerk positions (most are part-time jobs).

The T-Shirt machine is connected with the Weed & Seed Program. It had been budgeted for and supposedly purchased. Who owns it? Bill Jones would check to find out. Police application for Weed & Seed grant had been denied by government offices in Syracuse and Washington DC.

Bill Jones: 1) There has been a couple of fires in the South End recently. Apparently accidental. (Nothing suspicious).
2)There is now a "vacant building court" which is a whole different court. A lot of vacant buildings have been reoccupied. Code enforcement is being tightened up. First registered letters go out this week. Minimum fines have been raised.

Matt Montesano: 1) Block-by-block to combat urban blight is moving ahead. There are four zones.
2) Can offer crime prevention training for South End residents. Just need a location and a one hour block of time.

JoAnn Morton: 1) Regarding community outreach, it would be good to have a goal to enlist at least one person from each street who could serve as a block captain.
2) How much is bulk mailing? Scott will get information regarding the "Capital Neighbors" publication which is bulk mailed roughly every three months.
3) Membership dues? Need to decide how much for individuals, familes, and businesses. Should we have a sliding-scale?
4) Fund-raising? The Delaware Neighborhood Association has in past years sold ornaments around Christmas as a fund-raiser. We need a fund raising committee.
5) Newsletter committee. How often should the paper come out? First one should be jazzed-up to catch attention. Robert volunteered for the committee. Yoko could help with production.
On columns: Matt could give crime updates, Scott could give library news, Carolyn could have a column, and Houses of Worship might be listed.
6) Yoko Chaumont constructed a web site for SENA. www.southendna.blogspot.com
7) Guests to invite for future meetings: Chief Tuffey, Mayor Jennings, Ron Consolari, Gov. Spitzer, Carolyn McLaughlin, Luci McKnight, Perrry Jones, Capital City Rescue Mission. (What does a rescue mission do? Rev. Covington: More than one might expect.)
8) SEEJ meetings are scheduled for January. (405 Washington Ave)

Robert Chaumont: Gave CANA report. (Gershwin remembrance concert at the Egg Jan. 9th, 2008; Citizen's Police Review Board; Water pollution drain-off into Hudson when it rains heavily causing a big problem.)

Next Meeting is Tuesday Jan. 22, 2008 at 6pm.

Pictures

2008-01-16T15:53:00.005-05:00

Children and adults in community enjoy an evening of fun and games durning National Night Out in Lincoln Park

Children learn about Plants

The John A. Howe Library re-opens after major renovation

Picture of the beautifully restored windows

Rip VanWinkle tile detail from restored fireplace mantle

Join SENA

2008-01-16T15:50:00.002-05:00

If you would like to join the South End Neighborhood Association, come to any one of our meetings and express your desire to do so. It is a very rewarding experience and a great way to help the community.

Membership fees (per year) are:
$10 per household
$30 per business

Any donations help us greatly. Thank you.

Contact Information

2008-01-16T15:47:00.002-05:00

If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at southendneighborhoodassociation@hotmail.com or southendna@gmail.com

Bylaws

2008-01-16T15:39:00.000-05:00

ARTICLE I – NAME AND AREA

The name of the organization shall be “South End Neighborhood Association” hereinafter referred to as “SENA”.

The South End Neighborhood Association shall have the following boundaries: North: Morton Ave., Warren Street, and South Ferry St.; South: S. Pearl Street Extension; East: Hudson River; West: South Hawk St.

ARTICLE II – PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVE

1. Purpose

The purpose of South End Neighborhood Association (SENA) shall be to preserve and improve the quality of life for all residents in our culturally, economically, and racially diverse neighborhoods. We will promote the South end neighborhood as viable places to reside, work, and enjoy life by undertaking the following:

1. To foster and support communication among residents by encouraging neighbors to meet and help each other by identifying issues of interest and concern to the neighborhood.
2. To foster the repair, rehabilitation and restoration of sub-standard, abandoned, and historic buildings.
3. To work with State and local governments, civic and community organizations, banks, insurance companies, and other investors, both public and private.
4. To encourage the development and success of small businesses which can provide goods and services to neighborhood residents.
5. To promote public safety through partnerships with fire, police and emergency personnel.
6. To empower neighbors by providing meaningful leadership opportunities.
7. To explore partnerships with all levels of government, the city school district, faith community, businesses, and non profit organizations to provide opportunities for jobs and training, recreation and education for all residents of the South End, with an emphasis on youth, residents with disabilities and senior residents.
8. To participate with other neighborhood associations in the activities of the Council of Albany Neighborhood Associations (CANA) and the Neighborhood Resource Center (NRC).

ARTICLE III – MEMBERSHIP

Membership in SENA is voluntary and includes annual membership dues. Membership grants the following privileges and responsibilities:

* A vote during SENA meetings
* Eligibility to run for Board of Director positions
* Eligibility to serve as a sub-committee chair

Those residents who choose not to become member of the SENA are encouraged to attend the SENA meetings and voice their thoughts and observations, however they shall not have a vote.

Non-members may serve on sub-committees, but may not serve as the chair of a sub-committee.

Resident Member. Any individual living in the neighborhood who is interested in SENA shall be known as a resident member upon payment of dues.

Non-Resident Member. Any individual not living in the neighborhood but has an interest in promoting SENA’s purpose and objective, shall be known as a non-resident member upon payment of dues.

Business/Organization Member. Any business, which is located within the boundaries of the Association, shall be eligible for a Business Membership, whether or not the business owner resides within the boundaries of the Association. A Business Membership will have one vote upon payment of dues.

Anyone may join the SENA at any time during the year. The Secretary and the Treasurer shall process the membership before the next scheduled SENA meeting and the new Vote may participate immediately.

In the event that the association should be dissolved, the balance of all financial accounts shall be disbursed to a charitable organization within the boundaries of the Association by majority vote of all members in good standing.

Article IV – Organizational Structure and Officers

The SENA will have a standing Board of Director that will maintain the organization in a legal state of activity and solvency. Control and Management of the SENA, including its property and funds, shall be vested in the Board of Director. The President and the Treasurer must sign all official instruments of fiscal business. The Board of Director will have the following positions:

President – Duties include scheduling and presiding over all General and Special Meetings of SENA, as well as the formation and guidance of all Steering and Sub-Committees deemed necessary for the Association purposes. The President will sign all official instruments of business, including the co-signing of bank documents, and other financial agreements along with the Treasurer. The President and the Vice President will have authority to co-sign all bank drafts and only during the absence of one of the afore mentioned officers will the Treasurer have authority to co-sign bank drafts. The president will have a tie-breaking vote, when necessary, during Board of Director, General and Special Meetings of SENA. If the President leaves the position, it shall be filled by the Vice-president until the end of the current term.

Vice-President – Shall assist in the performance of the President’s duties and shall preside in the President’s absence at meetings of the Association and at meetings of the Board of Directors and shall represent the President when requested at meetings or other functions. The President and the Vice President will have authority to co-sign all bank drafts and only during the absence of one of the afore mentioned officers will the Treasurer have authority to co-sign bank drafts.

Secretary – Duties include taking meeting minutes and maintaining means of communications within the various committees and the SENA as a whole, including but not limited to: electronic means, paper and phone communications, maintaining the Roster of SENA members.

Corresponding Secretary – Shared duties with the Secretary including: preparing and sending out notices of meetings, collecting mail, general correspondence; by electronic means, paper or pone.

Treasurer – Shall be responsible for all funds including donations, the co-signing of all official instruments of business, including bank documents, and other financial agreements along with the President. The Treasurer will only have authority to co-sign bank drafts in the absence of either the President or Vice-President. The Treasurer will also maintain an accurate accounting ledger of all monies received and dispersed. The Treasurer will provide a written financial report, which includes a monthly projection of revenue and expense at all, General Meetings.
The Treasurer will present the Association’s Annual Budget to the membership at the beginning of the Associations fiscal year. The Treasurer will also present the Annual Audited Financial Statement at the end of the Association’s fiscal year, after review and approval by the President and the Board of Directors.

Article V Committees

The President, with the approval of the Board of Directors, shall appoint the chair of each of the standing committees.

The chairs of these committees shall be members of the Board of Directors but the other members of the committees need not be Directors. The chair of each committee (except the Executive Committee) will appoint the members of their committee.

The committees will coordinate with committees in other neighborhoods associations, to the extent possible, under the auspices of CANA.

Director of Community Outreach – The Director of Community Outreach shall direct and supervise the work of Block Captain. The Director shall be responsible for recruitment, formulation and publication of duties and providing appropriate training and support for the Block Captains. There shall be two Block Captains for each block. Block Captains may be elected at any membership meeting. Block Captains who fail to carry out their duties may be removed by the Director. When vacancies exist, the Director shall be responsible to carry out the duties of Block Captain for the vacant area until the vacancy can be filled. Within 30 days of commencement of his/her term, the Director shall call and chair a meeting of all Block Captains, in order to review and explain their duties. Thereafter, the Director shall conduct such meetings as may be necessary to assist and support the Block Captains in carrying out their duties.

Director of Beautification - The Director of Beautification shall coordinate a master plan for beautification within the SENA community, including greenery, tree care and decorative elements within the neighborhood. The Director shall also work with DGS, the City Gardener and City Forester to coordinate the care and development of any parks and playground, while also encouraging residents to plant trees, install window boxes and cultivate tree surrounds, organize the distribution of beautification materials from the city or other sources, as well as organizing neighborhood cleanups.

Director of Public Safety – The Director of Public Safety will coordinate a master evacuation plan with local police, fire and emergency service personnel to expedite prompt response to natural gas leaks, flooding incidents and natural disasters from first responders to community residents and business owners. The Director will work with the

New York State Department of Homeland Security, Albany Police and Fire Departments, National grid, local hospitals and Emergency Medical service personnel to develop a neighborhood communication network and standard protocols to respond to public safety threats from abandoned and deteriorating occupied housing in our community. The Director will also work with the City’s Code Enforcement and Zoning officials to identify potential threats, with the focus on prevention of danger, injury or harm to our community’s residents and business owners; this will include ensuring the proper maintenance of street pavement, vacant lots sidewalks, street lighting, as well as delivery conduits of natural gas and electric power to our community
Director of Fund Raising and Special Events – The Director of Fund Raising and Special Events will coordinate and plan the fund raising efforts and special events activities.

Vacancies: If a position of an officer shall become vacant during the year, in the absence of any other provision such vacancy shall be filled by a majority vote of the remaining members of the Board of Director. Person(s) so elected shall serve until the next election.

Removal: An officer who fails to properly perform the prescribed duties of his or her office may be removed by a majority vote of the Board of Director.

Nominations: The Board of Director will appoint a committee of three resident members appointed at least thirty days prior to the Annual meeting for the purpose of presenting a proposed slate of officers. Any SENA member in good standing may nominate from the floor when duly seconded.

Board of Director position terms shall coincide with the SENA fiscal year. These terms shall last one year in all cases. The Board of Director elections shall take place at the last SENA meeting of the fiscal year. Board of Director Officers shall be elected by a simple majority of votes present. Committee members shall take office at the beginning of the new fiscal year.

Board of Director meetings shall meet at least bi-monthly and be open to all. A majority of the Board of Director members present will constitute a quorum.

Article VI – SENA Operations

The President (or the Vice-President in the absence of the President) must call the SENA meetings to order.

Article VII– BY Laws Procedures

The Bylaws of the SENA shall be reviewed and re-adopted at the last meeting of each fiscal year. Proposed Bylaw amendments shall be distributed at least thirty (30) days before the last meeting of the fiscal year. All votes regarding bylaws amendments shall pass by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of total votes present.

The Secretary shall ensure that all members have one hard copy of the bylaws at the first meeting of each fiscal year.

Article VIII – Amendments

Proposed amendments to these Bylaws must be submitted in writing to the Secretary of the SENA at least XXXX days prior to the last meeting of the fiscal year.

Minutes - November 27, 2007

2008-01-16T15:19:00.000-05:00

South End Neighborhood Association

November 27, 2007

Meeting Attendees:

JoAnn Morton, Scott J., Benna Eldridge, M. Montesano, Melissa Bucher, Gene Solan,

Mark Beaudoin, Robert Chaumont, Noriko Chaumont, Archie Goodbee,

William Pendleton, Nellie Morton, Virginia Hoke, Bill Jones, Carolyn McLaughlin,

Milton Wright, Rev. Victor Covington, Travis Klami, Eileen Cheong, Martha Cinnamon,

Matthew Foley, Mike Fargiore

Library Update (Scott J.):

* Library Board approved the proposed moved of the Howe to 200 S. Pearl Street. The agreement between the Library and Albany Housing has not been signed.
* Three months before the close of the Howe Branch the closing process will start. The closing process involves:
o Book reservations. The affect no book reservation after December 30th.
o Programs scaled back. During the months of January & February programs will be scaled back because of packing and cleaning.
o Monday thru Thursday activities will be scaled down.

* Public meeting for The 60% Design Plan for the Howe Branch will be held on December 3 at 6 pm at the Howe Library
o The review design at 60% will be open to input

Albany Police Dept. Update (Matt Montesano):

* Delivery drivers in the uptown area are experiencing a lot of robberies
* Flyers are being distributed on driver safety
* “Take Your Keys” flyers are being distributed. It is illegal to leave a car running that is unattended. The only legal way to leave an unattended car running is by having a car starter.
* PAL Toy distribution starting next week
o The number of toys given out is down. Between three and four thousand toys will be distributed.
o Toys R Us gave $6000 to the program
o Next year they might reach out to other areas for help
* United Front Youth Organization will march on Saturday from Giffen School to the MLK memorial. This is a group against violence.

Neighborhood Resource Center (Gene Solan):

* Neighborhoods Work Conference8 will be on Sat. Dec 1 at the First Lutheran Church located at 646 State St.
* Purpose of the conference is to get a handle on community assets, encourage residents to stay and to encourage others to live in Albany.
o The Challenges for Neighborhoods
o Senior Panel: Options for Seniors,
o Family Panel: Attracting and Keeping the Family in the Neighborhood,
o Youth Panel: Growing Up Safely and Successfully

Albany Fire Dept.:(Bill Jones)

* Demolitions have taken place at the following addresses:
o 59 Broad Street
o 30-32 Morton Avenue (structural and internal collapse)
* Codes initiative for the Block by Block
* Disaster Preparedness program now available. The Albany Fire Department is available to give the half hour presentation. (Need to schedule Bill Jones for a future meeting to discuss Disaster Preparedness)

Harriet Tubman Free School (Eileen Cheong):

* Students from the school want to work on a Public Art Works project. The school will work with the Grand Street Community Arts and would like SENA support with advice in locating a place to display the Artwork. Benna Eldridge from Trinity volunteered to assist.

CANA Report (Robert Chaumont):

* At the CANA meeting discussion on the Comprehensive Plan.
* Vacant Building discussed

Trinity (Benna Eldridge):

* VITA Tax program will start in February and is Free. Need help in spreading the word about the program.
o To take advantage of the program people must schedule an appointment. The hours will be from 9 – 12:30 and 4 – 7 Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
* Trinity is just one site that will be available for the VITA Tax program.

NYS Civil Service (William Pendleton):

* Workforce is low
* Community Job Fair discussed. In the past Ken Braswell(Editor of the South End Scene newspaper) organized a job fair in the Southend.
* NYS is willing to work with SENA for the Community Job Fair.
* Suggestions: Involve Churches, Trinity and other Neighborhood Associations. Invite employers who have jobs available.
* Use job fair as a means to raise revenue for SENA. Need to form a job fair committee to work out the details on date, location, who to invite, how to promote, sponsors for food, determine insurance requirements. The job fair should include a workshop to cover the basics about how to go about getting a job.
* Information on jobs with New York State: NYS Dept of Tax and Finance accepting applications for Temporary positions; Internships available with the Attorney Generals Office for graduate students, Building Services Aide positions available with the NYS Office of General Services, Exam Announcement for the Keyboard Specialist

.

SENA Nominating Committee (Mark Beaudoin):

* The nominating committee presented its recommendations for the officers and opened it up to the floor for additional nominations. The following people were nominated by the committee or from the floor and were voted in unanimously for the following positions.
* JoAnn Morton, President
* Mark Beaudoin, Vice President
* Robert Chaumont, Secretary
* Carolyn McLaughlin Corresponding Secretary
* Terry Walton, Treasurer

The members ratified the Officers nominations.

Concerns expressed by residents:

1. There is a bumpout on South Pearl Street in front of a residents home, which prevents parking near her home. The resident parks in the parking lot of the liquor store. In addition to the inconvenience to the resident it is a safety issue because of the unusual shape and location of the bumpout. There is pole fixture that has been struck by passing automobiles.
2. Need information on the Paint Program
3. How to inform residents about SENA meetings.

Next SENA meeting December 18, 2007.

SENA Officers will meet on Dec 6 at 5:30 at the SEIC 38 Catherine Street