Office of Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez

Please feel free to share these upcoming events and opportunities in Northern Manhattan!

COUNCIL MEMBER RODRIGUEZ'S STATE OF NORTHERN MANHATTAN ADDRESS

Save the Date! Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez will deliver his 4th Annual State of Northern Manhattan Address discussing the past year in Northern Manhattan and future plans for the district. This event is open to all so please share with friends and family! Sunday, April 6th at 2:30pm. RSVP to cmrodriguezevents@gmail.com

Today:

"Through Women's Eyes"

In celebration of Women's History Month, The Grady Alexis Gallery at El Taller Latino Americano is pleased to present an art exhibition featuring the work of New York-based artists Antonia Guerrero (Mexico,) Shifi Rathaus (Israel) and Nina Talbot (US). Curated by Andrea Arroyo. At the Grady Alexis Gallery at El Taller Latino Americano, 2710 Broadway (@ W. 104th Street). March 12th through April 19th. Opening reception Wednesday, March 12th, 6pm-8pm. For more information, visit http://tallerlatino.org/ArtExhibits.php.

Forging a Common Path: An Anthology of Afro-Caribbean & Brazilian Poetry, Culture and Thought

Sen. Espaillat and his uptown partners in government invite you to join a discussion on the work of legendary poet and author Manuel del Cabral, whose work explored the meaning of identity, and helped pioneer the Afro-Caribbean cultural movement. An expert academic and literary panel will discuss how writers in Latin America and in the Caribbean forge a common path across different spaces to reclaim their African heritage. At the Schomburg Center for research in Black culture / NYPL. 515 Malcolm X Blvd. Friday, March 21st, 6pm-9:30pm.

11th International Dominican Writers Book Fair in celebration of Women's History Month.

Immerse yourself in three days of intellectual stimulation! Buy books, arts, crafts, and posters; meet writers; listen to poetry, song, and monologues; dance; nurture your mind, body & spirit. Meals and snacks will be served. This year we are honoring Yvellisse Fanith, Juan Villar and Lucila Rutinel. The event opens on Friday, March 21st at 7pm in the Auditorium at the Isabella Geriatric Center (515 Audubon Ave. @ W. 190th St.), featuring live music with the Ncue Band. Second day events will be Saturday, March 22nd, 10am - 7pm, in the Library at Isabella. Closing events will be on Sunday, March 23rd, 10am - 7pm, at the Alianza Cultural Center, 530 W. 160th St. (btw. Audubon & St. Nicholas Aves.)

"OKLAHOMA!"

The Pied Piper Children's Theatre of NYC proudly presents this Rodgers & Hammerstein classic, based on the play "Green Grow the Lilacs." Original dances by Agnes De Mille. Stage & music directed by Rey-Rey. Choreographers: Matt Antar, Teresa Boitel, Rebecca Sherman Morcelo & Alan Spaulding. At the Theatre Space at Holy Trinity Church Inwood, 20 Cumming Street (one block north of Dyckman). Friday, March 21st at 8pm; Saturday, March 22nd @ 3pm & 8pm; Sunday, March 23rd @ 4pm. Adults - $12, Children (under 16) and Seniors - $10 at the door beginning 45 minutes prior to performance. (Cash or Check ONLY.) We hope to see you there!

Community Garden Lottery Riverbank

Plots available for community gardening. The cost of the garden must be paid on registration day. The cost for two years is as follows: $30 for two years gardening fee; $10 registration fee ($8 for seniors). For any additional m embers there is a fee of $10 per plot. Garden fees are non-refundable. You must also bring photo ID with address and a current utility bill w/ name/address. In the Cultural Theatre at Riverbank State Park (W. 145th St. & Riverside Dr.) Saturday, March 22nd, doors open at 9:30am; lottery at 11am. For more information, call 212-694-3633.

Year-Round and Migratory Birds of Northern Manhattan

Join us for an indoor talk and slide show followed by a birding walk in Inwood Hill Park. Learn to identify and value Northern Manhattan's flora and fauna with Leslie Day, author of Field Guide to the Street Trees of New York City and Field Guide to the Natural World of New York City. Learn about NYC's many birds and plants with this expert naturalist. Bring binoculars. Meet inside the Payson Education Center at Payson Ave. and Dyckman St. in Inwood Hill Park.Saturday, March 22nd, 10:30am - noon.

Family Workshop

Paper Flowers Celebrate the beginning of Spring by first learning about all about gardening in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Then create a unique paper flower out of tissue paper, glitter and pipe cleaners. They will brighten up your day! The event is FREE but advanced registration is required. At the Morris-Jumel Mansion, 65 Jumel Terrace, between W. 160th & W. 162nd Streets just east of St. Nicholas Avenue. Saturday, March 22nd, 11am - 1pm. For more information, call Carol Ward at 212-923-8008 or visit www.morrisjumel.org.

Armory PAL Girls' Sports Day Get

"on track" with "Coach" Dave Crenshaw and the Police Athletic League this Saturday at the Armory, Ft. Washington Ave. @ W. 168th St. This Track & Field is not only fun, it'll help you get ready for next week's "Uptown Games". Free and open to the public. Call PAL, 212-927-0306 for more information and to register. Saturday, March 22nd @ 11:30am.

Saturday Afternoon Movie: Dallas Buyers Club

Matthew Mc'Conaughey headlines director Jean-Marc Vall�e's biographical drama centering on the story of Ron Woodroof, a Texas electrician who was diagnosed as HIV-positive in 1986, and who subsequently devoted his life to providing fellow HIV patients with non-FDA-approved drugs and supplements during an era when doctors were still struggling to understand the devastating disease. At the St. Agnes Library, 444 Amsterdam Ave (near 81st St.). Free and open to the public. Call 212-621-0619 for more information. Saturday, March 22nd at 2pm.

Police Officer Michael J. Bucek Little League Registration is opening soon!

At the 34th Precinct, 4295 Broadway @ W. 183rd St. Little League registration dates will be the next three Saturdays - March 22nd, March 29th & April 5th, from 4pm-6pm. If you have any questions, please contact Police Officer Christian Perez at 212-927 0287 or christian.perez@nypd.org.

Jazz Clarinet Concert with Perry Robinson

For over four decades, Perry Robinson has been a sui generis composer and master of the clarinet in jazz, folk, klezmer and avant-garde music. Over the course of his career, he has performed with such jazz luminaries as Charlie Haden, Paul Motian, and Dave Brubeck, among others. At El Taller Latino Americano, 2710 Broadway (@ W. 104th St.), 3rd fl. $20. Saturday, March 22nd at 8pm. For more information, call 212-665-9460 or visit http://tallerlatino.org/index.php.

Sunday Concert in the Lounge

Gregor Huebner, accomplished violinist, composer and jazz musician brings a dynamic and fascinating program of Latin jazz repertoire to the HVG Lounge. In preparation for an upcoming recording of new arrangements of Cuban, Brazilian and Tango music, Huebner will perform samples of the music for the new CD. Huebner's first CD "retraces the evolution of the repertoire... By turns sexy and sly, impassioned and dreamy, his collection of well-known tunes, unexpected arrangements and original compositions... it's the story of the prodigal violin: of how the most aristocratic of instruments crossed the Atlantic and found itself in the rhythm section of a Cuban charanga band, or in a brothel in Buenos Aires." (Wall Street Journal). The Lounge at Hudson View Gardens (W 183rd St. & Pinehurst Ave.). Sunday, March 23rd at 5pm Suggested $12 donation includes post concert reception.

Sunday Movies at the Palace: Ghostbusters

Enjoy this 1984 classic, hosted once again by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Lots of surprises in store! Doors will open at 4pm, with a 5pm program, and a 5:30pm movie. Tickets: $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Guests wearing tuxedos or gowns get a free bag of popcorn. At the United Palace of Cultural Arts, 4140 Broadway at W. 175th Street. Sunday, March 23rd.

Understanding Your Choices for End-of-Life Care

Rabbi Guy Austrian will speak on a panel of medical and religious leaders from the community to address common issues that arise when facing end-of-life challenges. Understanding your choices - and communicating your wishes to family now - will ensure that your medical care in the future will reflect your personal values and desires. Organized by MJHS Hospice and the YM/YWHA of WH-I; cosponsored by the Ft. Tryon Jewish Center and many other local groups. At the Mount Sinai Jewish Center, 135 Bennett @ 187th St. Free and open to the public. RSVP's to hgoldberg@ywashhts.org by Thurs 3/20, appreciated but not required. Sunday March 23rd, 10am - 11:30am

Who's Up First in our Parks?

Children's educator Julia Attaway asks "Who's up first this spring?" This workshop teaches children ages 4-7 to identify the first plants of spring. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the entrance to the Heather Garden in Fort Tryon Park at Margaret Corbin Circle. Sunday, March 23rd, 1pm - 1:45pm.

Health Care Information and Enrollment Session

Get the facts about the Affordable Care Act and learn how you can enroll into an affordable healthcare plan. If you wish to enroll, please bring your social security number(s) (or document number for immigrants), birth dates of family members, employer and income information for each member of your household who needs coverage, and policy numbers for any current health insurance plans. At the St. Agnes Library, 444 Amsterdam Ave. (near 81st St.). Free and open to the public. Call 212-621-0619 for more information. Monday, March 24th at 11am.

Mermaids

Visual Art by Jane LeCroy & Shari Elf at the Indian Road Caf� (W. 218th Street & Indian Road, two blocks west of Broadway.) Now through March 29th. Free. Live music and reception, Monday, March 24th, 6pm-10pm.

City of Water Day The Manhattan Waterfront Alliance (MWA)

MWA brings together thousands of mariners, paddlers, rowers, activists, and families in a day-long celebration of the potential of the water that surrounds us and brings us together. It will feature hundreds of unique, fun, and educational waterfront activities. This year, City of Water Day will be held on Governors Island in New York City and Maxwell Place Park in Hoboken, NJ on Saturday, July 12th, and MWA needs your help to make it a success. At this planning meeting, individuals, organizations, boaters, and volunteers will discuss ways to improve the event and pitch ideas for activities and programs. We wantyour ideas! At MWA's offices at the Blue School, 241 Water Street (2nd fl. Cafeteria), March 24th, 6pm - 8pm.

Town Hall with Councilman Corey Johnson:

Councilmember Corey Johnson invites you to a Town Hall with representatives from City agencies! These include the Departments of Health & Mental Hygiene, Environmental Protection, Transportation, Consumer Affairs, and Housing & Preservation Development (HPD), as well as the NYPD and MTA. At the School of Visual Arts, 333 West 23rdSt. (btw 8th & 9th Aves.). Free and open to the public. RSVP to District3@council.nyc.gov or call 212-564-7757. Tuesday, March 25th,6:30pm - 8:30pm.

Mammography Screening

By appointment only. Look for the mammography van in front of Isabella Geriatric Center (515 Audubon Ave. @ W. 190-th St.). March 26th beginning at 1:30pm. Please call 1-800-564-6868 to schedule your appointment today

Traffic Safety Town Hall Meeting:

Join Speaker Melissa Mark Viverito, Borough President Gale Brewer, NYC Council Transportation Committee Chair Ydanis Rodriguez, Council Members Mark Levine and Helen Rosenthal, and other for a Vision Zero Manhattan Town Hall Meeting. Come out and give us your feedback, concerns and legislative ideas on Mayor de Blasio's Vision Zero Plan! NYC needs your ideas to improve street safety, to identify problem locations, and to hammer out site-specific solutions that match realities on the ground. The town hall is at John Jay College of Criminal Justice - Gerald W. Lynch Theater, 524 West 59th Street (Entrance on West 59th Street between 10th and 11th Avenues). Free and open to the public. To RSVP of for more information, please call 212-341-2644 or email Events@council.nyc.gov. Wednesday, March 26th, 6pm - 8pm.

Tenants' Forum

This is an opportunity for tenants to get information on issues such getting repairs, housing court, rent subsidies, NYCHA housing, HCR/rent stabilization, dealing with bedbugs, tenants' rights, code enforcement, SCRIE/DRIE, and much, much more. At the Isabella Geriatric Center, 515 Audubon Ave. @ W. 190th St. There will be representatives from the NYC Departments of Housing Preservation & Development, and Health, the NYS Division of Housing & Community Renewal, Legal Services, and others. Thursday, March 27th, 6:30pm-8:30pm.

Learn about home heating for your house, building or co-op/condo: Several sessions, including one on Thursday, March 27th, 6:30pm-8pm. See News / Info section below for details.

Skraptacular Fundraiser & Celebration

Please join us as we honor former City Councilmember Robert Jackson, for his many contributions to public education and for making the decisive vote in to ban single-use Styrofoam from the city's school cafeterias and restaurants. And we honor Sarah Morgridge, Robert's Chief of Staff, who fought passionately alongside him to serve constituents, support public school families in realizing their right to educational opportunity. Raffle, silent auction, drinks & hors d'oerves; live music, too! $30. At 307 W. 38th St., 20th fl. Thursday, March 27th, 5pm-8pm. Info: mdelg@mindspring.com

New York Women's Chamber of Commerce / State of Women in Business

Hear NYC Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito and NYC Department of Small Business Services Assistant Commissioner Maria T. Osorio speak about the current state of women in business at this NYWCC event, Goals vs. Reality: Where We Are / Where We Need to Be. Share your concerns and ideas about how we can level the playing field for all women in business. At the Columbia University School of Business, 3022 Broadway, 310 Uris Hall, room 142. Friday, March 28th, 8:30am - 10am. Space is limited; for more information or to RSVP call 212-491-9640 ext.105 or emaillmiles@nywcc.org.

Earth Day Celebration III

Save the date for Friday, April 25, 2014. Planning Committee to meet Friday, March 28, 2014 at IS52 - 650 Academy Street, off of Broadway, near the Vermilyea Street entrance. Theme this year: Need Trees? Those interested in participating in the fun, educational, and celebratory joint venture that includes a parade, assembly, and street fair by the Rotary Club of Inwood & and IS 52, please e-mail Rotarian KyWilliams2@aol.com or call: 212-304-8882.

West African Music with Valerie Naranjo & Special Guest Ichitey James

Known for her pioneering efforts in West African music;Valerie Naranjo is one of only two non-West Africans to win the gyil competition at the Ghanaian Kobine Festival and the first woman ever allowed to play the instrument publicly at the festival. Valerie plays percussion for NBC's "Saturday Night Live" band for The Lion King and has performed solo on six continents with the Philip Glass Ensemble, David Byrne, The Paul Winter Consort, Zakir Hussein and others. Valerie was named Drum! Magazine's "World Percussionist of the Year" in 2003 and 2008, and "Mallet Player of the Year" in 2012, and will be the first recipient of El Taller's newly created Chaski Award for her work in community building through music and for "changing the course of musical history in Africa." Ichitey James, a master percussionist and owner of the Lobi/Brifo Gyil Center at Accra's National Council of the Arts, will be joining the evening's performance. At El Taller Latino Americano, 2710 Broadway (@ W. 104th St.), 3rd fl. $20. Friday, March 28th at 8pm. For more information, call 212-665-9460 or visit http://tallerlatino.org/index.php.

Uptown Games Return on Saturday March 29th.

Enjoy a day of competitive track-and-field events for elementary- and middle-school children (3rd-8th grades) in the historic Washington Heights Armory. Register solo, or as part of your school's team. For more information and registration forms, call 212-544-0173, email eventsRSVP@adrianoespaillat.org, or click here for English (http://www.scribd.com/doc/212963282/Uptown-Games-2014-Registration-English) or here for Spanish (http://www.scribd.com/doc/212963461/Uptown-Games-2014-Registration-Spanish). We have more than a dozen school teams and so far we anticipate 350+ kids, but there's still room. Don't miss out!

The international Women's Month Brunch Buffet Award

Dominican Sunday Inc. and the office of the Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer have the honor of inviting you and your family to a wonderful reception to benefit Dominican Sunday Inc. Dominican Sunday is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1995 and is committed to empowering and providing a variety of supports to the residents of West Harlem, Manhattan Valley and Morningside Communities. We provide adult education in citizenship, ESL & GED; housing advocacy; and youth and workforce development. We celebrate Women's History Month by inviting Latino Professional women to share their success stories in the hopes of inspiring other women to press forward and strive. We also hope to positively impact life of other women by honoring empowered dignified women in our community. At the Ascension School Gym, 220 W. 108th St. (btw. Amsterdam Ave. & Broadway). Tickets are $50. Please confirm your attendance by calling Altagracia Hiraldo or Leila Arbaje at 718-663-9546. Sunday, March 30th at 11:30am

Learn about home heating for your house, building or co-op/condo: Several sessions, including one on Saturday, March 29th, 2pm-4:30. See News / Info section below for details.

Northern Manhattan Neighbors for Peace & Justice

is showing "Fruitvale Station," a movie about Oscar Grant, a young man killed by Oakland police on a subway platform. Admission is free. At the Holyrood Church, Ft. Washington Ave. @ W. 179th St. (enter on W. 179th St.). Sunday, March 30th, 5pm - 7pm.

The Joy of Improv

Enjoy creating improvisational comedy in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. No performing experience is necessary-just a willingness to play, experiment, and laugh with others. Instructor Bob Lamm is a writer and teacher who runs the Novels With a Social Conscience Book Club at Word Up. He has taught improv classes at NYU and the CUNY Graduate Center, and has run workshops at Vassar, Sarah Lawrence, the Hebrew Tabernacle, Covenant House, and many high schools. At Word Up Community Bookshop, 2113 Amsterdam Ave. @ W. 165th St. FREE, but advance registration (please call 347-688-4456) is helpful for planning purposes. Sunday, March 30th, 3pm - 5pm.

Riverstone Senior Adult Services

Memory Caf� brings together caregivers and individuals with Alzheimers or other memory problems for relaxing interaction in a caf� setting. At Coogan's Restaurant, 4015 Broadway @ W. 168th St. Sunday, March 30th, 3pm-4:30pm. Free, but reservations required: call Norma at 212-927-5600 x117.

Literacy Across Harlem Day

It's the first day of the month, and once again Total Equity Now (TEN) will engage an intergenerational team of community volunteers in promoting reading as a key component of who we are and what we do here in Harlem. For 90 minutes we will: hand out Literacy Across Harlem Day flyers, ask passersby about their reading habits, tell folks why we love reading and why it's so important, and encourage others to carry their "reads" outside of their bags! #RockThoseReads, by carrying reading materials publicly, conspicuously and proudly! On the southeast corner of 125th Street & Amsterdam Avenue. Tuesday, April 1st, 3:30pm-5pm. Other ways to #RockThoseReads:

� Tweet a photo of yourself, "read" of the day in hand, to @TotalEquityNow with the #RockThoseReads tag

� Visit one of our Literacy Partners - including Sisters Uptown (1942 Amsterdam @ W. 152nd) and Caf� One (1619 Amsterdam Ave. at W. 140th) to "swap those reads": leave a gently used book and take one that another Harlemite dropped off. (Go towww.totalequitynow.org for more partners)

Housing Workshop on City-wide Housing Related Campaigns

Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, Councilwoman Helen Rosenthal, Goddard Riverside's SRO Law Project, and The Urban Justice Center host a monthly housing clinic. There will be a presentation, followed by a question and answer session, and an opportunity to meet with a staff attorney to provide free, bilingual legal advice on specific issues. The event is free and open to the public. At the Goddard Riverside Community Center, 593 Columbus Avenue (between W. 88th & W. 89th Streets). Wednesday, April 2nd, from 6pm to 8pm. For questions, call the Urban Justice Center at 646-459-3017.

For the Love of Salsa:

Sign up for Riverbank State Park's hottest Spring class! Get in on the ground floor for instructor Jesse Hamilton's beginner/ intermediate/advanced salsa classes for teens and adults. Jesse, who started out dancing at downtown's Palladium, has been teaching dance for 25 years. Salsa is a spiritual quest for him, a means of finding his spirit and culture. Once Jesse gets a student to a certain level of skill - some of whom started out as beginners - he invites them to go on tour with him. He's taken his troupe of 25 dancers to perform classical jazz & salsa in Cuba, and in the Mardi Gras in Brazil, salsa shows in the Dominican Republic, Paris, and Barcelona, Spain. It's the same the world over. You may be one of the lucky ones - sign up for this popular class now! At the Riverbank State Park (679 Riverside Dr. @ W. 145th St.) For further information, call 212-694-3634 or 917-680-1319. Thursday evenings, April 3rd - June 12th, 7pm - 9pm - or - Sunday afternoons, April 6th - June 15th, 2pm - 4pm.

"Ballet Sculpting" Workshop

Learn the secrets of developing a dancer's body! Tone up from head to pointed toe with this ballet-inspired, cardio sculpting routine led by certified instructor Cecily Horner. No formal training or prior dance experience is required. Learn the classical style of ballet fundamentals combined with a heart pounding, body-sculpting workout. Focus on targeting your arms, abdominals, thighs and 'glutes while warming the muscles to deepen stretching and lengthening muscle mass. At the Riverbank State Park, 679 Riverside Dr. @ W. 145th St. Thursday evenings, April 3rd - June 12th, 7pm - 8:30pm For further information, call 212-694-3624

Full Frontal: A Naked Exploration of Sex & Sexuality

Uptown's own Eddie Antar (Author) & Leslie Kincaid Burby (Director), is a combination of five short stories that create a journey through the different stages and variations of sex and sexuality. There are only eight performances (click here for details http://www.workshoptheater.org/jewelbox/2014/full_frontal) and the venue is a small (30-seat) theater; those interested should consider purchasing tickets quickly as the show is bound to sell out. NOTE: there is no nudity, however the language and behavior in the stories are explicit and meant for a mature audience. It is not recommended for anyone under 16 years of age. In the Jewel Box at the Workshop Theater, 312 W. 36th St. @ 8th Ave., 4th fl. For more info call 866-811-4111 or visit www.workshoptheater.org. April 3rd - 12th.

Shakespeare Saturdays Cinema (SSC)

SSC is hosting a free afternoon Shakespeare movie through the Inwood Library. Come see the love-resistant Beatrice and Benedick battle it out as love wins out. Much Ado About Nothing will be shown in the downstairs auditorium. At The Inwood Branch of the New York Public Library (4790 Broadway, btw. Dyckman & Cumming Streets). Free! Saturday, April 5th; film begins promptly at 2:15pm. (Don't be late!)

Novels with a Social Conscience: a Book Discussion Group at Word Up

Join us to discuss Junot Diaz' Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao. (Please prepare in advance by reading the book.) At Word Up! Community Bookstore, 2113 Amsterdam Ave. @ W. 165th St. 347-688-4456. Sunday, April 6th from 3:00 to 5:00 pm.

Onward & Upward! Honoring Marcella Xavier of Bread & Yoga with the "Standing UP" Award

Join us for the 4th annual evening to benefit the UP Theater Company. At Papasito Mexican Grill & Agave Bar, 223 Dyckman Street. Monday, April 7th, 6pm-8pm. Details to follow!

Springtime Gospel at Riverbank Presented by the Harlem Renaissance Choir and Riverbank State Park

. Saturday April 12th, 1pm-2:30pm in the Park's Cultural Theatre. 679 Riverside Drive @ W. 145th St. Free!

Chess Tournament

The Right Move Chess Foundation proudly announces our 24th season of FREE scholastic chess competition serving the greater metropolitan area. At Riverbank State Park, 679 Riverside Drive @ W. 145th St., in the Auditorium. Pre-register at website before 8am the Friday before (i.e., April 11th) at www.therightmove.org. You can also check the site for the latest updates in case of weather or other emergency delays. You MUST arrive by 9:15 for registration / check-in; pairings will be posted by 9:45am. There are four rounds of 30 minutes each, with about an hour to the next round; awards ceremony is at 3:30. You may enter as an individual without the team section. Team plaques awarded to 1st & 2nd in each section. Teams are made of the top four scorers in each section (min. 3 players). Sets and boards are provided for the tournament *only*; bring your own set and board for between-games. Bring a chess clock if you have one. Emergency check-in number is 212-729-7060. Sunday, April 13th.

Impact of Alcohol on Public Health

A Town Hall Meeting to Discuss the Impact of Alcohol on Public Health with expert panelists on public health, partner violence and youth development. Co-Sponsored by NYS Senator Adriano Espaillat, Assemblymember Gabriela Rosa, Councilmember Ydanis Rodriguez, Community Board 12-Manhattan, the Partners of the UNIDOS Coalition, and Inwood Community Services; funded in part by a grant from the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration. At the Isabella Geriatric Center, 515 Audubon Avenue @ W. 190th Street. Thursday, April 24th, 6:30pm - 8:30pm.

Help Manage a Perennial Problem: Dog Waste

Save the Date: Saturday, May 3rd, to join in a community-wide blitz in attempt to greatly deter dog-owners from allowing their pets to poop and pee on our living trees. Not only is this dog waste destroying the necessary nutrients in the soil that helps feed our growing trees, thereby harming and even killing these needed trees, but it is a health hazard to us and especially to our young children and an ongoing eye-sore. This is another part of the ongoing Rotary Club of Inwood project called: Greening and Cleaning of Inwood. Find us on Facebook to learn more or e-mail Rotarian KyWilliams2@aol.com to begin to lend your support in our planning stages or be added to the list of folk ready to participate in our Inwood Blitz.

Open House for Uptown Arts Stroll, 11th Annual Arts Festival in Washington Heights-May 29th from 6-8pm:

The 11th annual arts festival in Washington Heights-Inwood, will take place in June from West 155th Street to West 220th Street. The stroll will showcase the painters, photographers, writers, musicians, sculptors, actors, dancers and filmmakers that contribute to the Northern Manhattan arts and cultural experience.

Artists and venues are invited to participate in the 2014 Uptown Arts Stroll. Please see http://www.artstroll.com/how-to-participate and follow the instructions to be part of the excitement this June.

If you have questions or need more information, please email artstroll@nomannyc.org.

***HOW YOU CAN HELP***

Helping our Neighbors in East Harlem

The devastation that occurred in East Harlem last week has shocked communities throughout our city, and inspired many to provide help for the families impacted. The victims of this tragedy have critical needs, and Mayor Bill de Blasio and Speaker Melissa Mark Viverito are taking strong measures to ensure they have the resources to recover. To assist these families, you can donate to the Mayor's Fund Disaster Relief Effort (https://www.nyc.gov/html/fund/html/donate/donate.shtml), or drop off non-perishable items at the East Harlem Merchants Association (309 E. 108th St.) or La Casa Azul Bookstore (143 E. 103rd St.). Thank you in advance for your support of these families in need.

Is your elementary / middle school child STILL learning in a trailer annex?

NYC DOE was to have eliminated ALL trailers in District 6 by 2012. Obviously they have not and they continue to include them in capacity formula calculations for co-location decisions (for example the PS192/325 co-location of a new IS). The New York Lawyers for the Public Interest (NYLPI) is surveying school community members about the use of trailers in their schools. NYLPI is a civil rights non-profit law firm that focuses on environmental justice, health justice, and disability justice. We have received inquiries from parents and teachers concerned about the use of temporary trailers (also known as transportable classroom units or TCUs) for instruction in NYC schools. We are asking parents, students, teachers, and community members to complete the following survey to gather information about how these trailers are used and any concerns you might have. All individual responses and personal information will be kept confidential. To fill out the survey please click here: Parent/Teacher Survey in TCUs (Classroom Trailers) in NYC [English]. Please also share with any lists you think might be interested, along w/ any feedback you might like to provide.

Blood Drive

Give the gift of life! There's always a shortage, and YOU can help. Sponsored by the Northern Manhattan Improvement Corp., and the NY Blood Center. In NMIC's offices, 76 Wadsworth Ave. @ W. 177th St. For information or to register, call the NY Blood Center at 1-800-933-2566. Monday, March 31st, 10am - 4pm.

Palisades Update:

With regard to the LG USA Corporation's proposed 143' new headquarters development along the Palisades, Senator Espaillat has introduced a resolution to the Senate, and asked that his Senate colleagues to join in urging LG to lower the height of their proposed headquarters. On the other side of the Hudson, the Englewood Cliffs Planning Board has set a Public Hearing meeting date to discuss a Proposed Amendment to their town's Master Plan. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30th.(Time t/b/d, but save the date.) At a recent meeting of the Planning Board, many Palisades supporters spoke eloquently, urging the Board to consider the Palisades protection issue as one of regional, national and international significance. There was only one Englewood Cliffs resident who got up to say that he supports the LG building as it is currently designed. The National Parks Service also weighed in, writing the Planning Board to warn that its approval of the 143-foot tower would "introduce a massive incompatible feature" that "threatens the nationally significant, historic scenic integrity of the Palisades in a major way." For more information about Protect the Palisades, visit http://www.protectthepalisades.org.

***EDUCATIONAL & VOCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ***

Global Scholars: My Meal Matters

Kids from 9-13 are invited to participate in a weekly workshop exploring food both here and globally while making online friends from such far-off places as Hong Kong, London and Mumbai. This is a great opportunity for kids to practice writing skills while they learn more about global citizenship. Free. At the Inwood Library (4790 Broadway). Every Wednesday at 4pm.

The Edward McFadden Scholarship Award

The Edward McFadden Scholarship Award was established to benefit community youth. The Fund provides college scholarships in the range of $1k - $3k, to outstanding students who have participated in voluntary community service and reside in the greater Washington heights / Inwood area (north of W. 155th St. to the tip of Manhattan) or Marble Hill (10th NYC Council District). Open to all HS seniors. You must submit a completed application questionnaire signed by a parent/guardian and a school official, current school transcript, SAT scores, 2 recommendations (one from a teacher, and one from a volunteer program supervisor) , and a personal essay. All finalists will be interviewed by the Scholarship Committee. For questions or to get an application, email scholarship@isabella.org, or download the application at http://bit.ly/McFaddenScholarship2014. Applications are due by Friday, March 21st.

Northern Manhattan Improvement Corp. Young Adult Internship Program (YAIP)

...can help you take the next step to explore, expand and evolve. This is a PAID INTERNSHIP opportunity. Earn up to $2,500 in this 14-week program for young adults, aged 17-24 who are currently unemployed and not enrolled in school or GED/HSE program, and do not have an associate's or bachelor's degree. Learn resume revision, interviewing skills, resume revision, education/training planning, time management, financial planning, professional communication skills, and more! Call NMIC at 212-453-5381, 5366 or 5394 for more information or to apply, or visit NMIC's offices, 76 Wadsworth Ave., between W. 176th & W. 177th Streets. Bring state-issued ID, birth certificate, Social Security card and proof of address. Application deadline is March 10th; program starts March 17th. THIS PROGRAM IS FREE.

District Manager, Manhattan's CB10, covering Central Harlem.

Through its 50-member volunteer board and four paid NYC staff members, the Board engages in various outreach activities to better the quality of life of community residents, has an advisory role in the City's land use review process, annual budget, and delivery of municipal services and is an active participant in most large-scale development proposals and planning activities. Under the direction of the Board Chair and its Executive Cabinet, the District Manager is responsible for expediting, monitoring and evaluating the delivery of municipal services, land use and zoning issues and management/budget concerns within the community district and actively participates in the coordination of the delivery of these services. In the performance of this position, the District Manager will adhere to all the requirements of the NYC Charter and CB10 bylaws. Must have college degree + 2 year's experience, or equivalent education/vocational experience. Send resume and cover letter to Manhattan Community Board 10 Manhattan, Attn: Personnel Search Committee: 215 West 125 Street, 4th Floor - New York, NY 10027 or email: cb10searchcommittee@yahoo.com. Must be received by March 31st. NYC residency required. For more info, visit:www.nyc.gov/mcb10

Seasonal Job Vacancy Notice

Summer Camp Counselors with the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation The New York City Department of Parks & Recreation (NYC Parks) serves as the steward for over 29,000 acres of land, which includes 1,000 playgrounds, 35 recreation centers, 66 pools and 14 miles of beach. Within the many divisions, Public Programs operates Summer Camp at 19 locations. NYC Parks Experience Summer Camp offers children ages 6 - 13 opportunities to participate in sports, fitness and outdoor adventure. During this 7 week fun-filled summer day camp children will go on trips throughout the five boroughs, participate in structured team sports, physical fitness programs, field days and make lasting friendships. DPR currently is looking for Summer Camp Counselors for the 8 weeks beginning July 1st. Civil service titles include Playground Associate ($14.90/hour; 49 positions citywide) and Community Service Aide ($13.60/hour; 34 positions citywide). For responsibilities, qualifications and other details please visit http://www.nycgovparks.org/. To apply, please e-mail resume & cover letter to: SummerCampJobs@parks.nyc.gov.

Union Apprenticeship Opportunities

The Joint Apprenticeship Committees for the Laborers (#731) & Ironworkers (Locals #40 & #361) Unions have open applications for their apprenticeship programs. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Other requirements apply; for information visit http://www.labor.ny.gov/pressreleases/ApprenticeshipArchive.shtm, or call the Local 731 Training Fund at 718-752-9860 or the Local Union #40 & #361 at 718-433-4195. You can also link there to a complete list of recruiting and apprentice opportunities throughout the NYS Department of Labor.

Is your elementary / middle school child STILL learning in a trailer annex?

***HEALTH & WELLNESS ***

Twelve Weeks of Classes to Help You Get Well, Stay Healthy, and Live Better!

Inwood Community Services, Inc., Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation, Community League of the Heights and EmblemHealth invite you to a series of FREE fitness classes, cooking demonstrations and health care education seminars. Sign up today:

� Yoga: Tuesdays, 2:30pm-3:30pm, April 1st - June 24th or Fridays, 7pm-8pm, April 4th - June 27th

� Zumba: Wednesdays, 6pm-7pm, April 2nd - June 25th or Fridays, 6pm - 7pm, April 4th - June 27th

� Health Lectures: Wednesdays, 7pm - 7:45pm (See Schedule)

� Cooking Classes: Tuesdays, 3:30pm - 5pm (See Schedule)

� At the Holy Trinity Church, 20 Cumming Street (btw. Seaman & Broadway)

For more information or to sign-up, click here : http://emblemhealthlivehealthy.com/upcoming-events/ or call 1-877-444-3674.

Do you have lupus?

Are you interested in meeting others who have lupus? If so, please let us know. The YM&YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood is exploring the possibility of hosting a support group for those affected by lupus, and is looking for people in the Washington Heights/Inwood area who might be interested in a lupus support group, in association with the SLE Lupus Foundation. Support groups offer the opportunity to connect with others, share your thoughts and feelings, and learn more about resources. If interested, please contact Deborah Katznelson at 212-569-6200, ext. 219 or at DKatznelson@ywashhts.org.

The Affordable Care Act ("Obamacare") is now in effect.

You can sign up for affordable and comprehensive health insurance for you and your family. Visit New York State's own website: www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov. You must enroll by March 31st to get coverage this year and to avoid any possible penalties. If you don't qualify for Medicaid, the federal government will provide tax credits to reduce insurance premiums for many people (e.g., a family of 4 with income up to $94,200). If your income is above that level, you can still get cheaper insurance than what was previously available. Protect yourself / protect your family. You can get free help from these authorized navigators:

Northern Manhattan Improvement Corp. ................................................212-822-8341

Morris Heights Health Center......................................................................718-483-1260

NY Women's Chamber of Commerce (businesses and individuals).......212-304-5122

Dominican Women's Development Center...............................................212-740-4335

Protect Yourself, Your Family & Your Community from the Measles:

� Babies should receive the first measles vaccine at 12 months of age. Children older than 12 months of age who have not yet received a measles vaccine (given as MMR or Measles-Mumps-Rubella) should be vaccinated as soon as possible. Several children who have developed measles were not vaccinated at 12 months of age.

� Vaccinating older children is the best way to protect children who are too young to receive the shot.

� Two doses of measles vaccine are required for full protection. Children usually get the second measles shot at 4 to 6 years of age before

***HELP WITH YOUR TAXES***

1.)

FREE Tax Preparation Day sponsored by NYC Comptroller Scott M. Stringer, Food Bank for New York City & the Goddard Riverside Community Center. Federal and NYS tax returns prepared by IRS-certified volunteers. Families (with dependents) earning less than $52,000 and individuals earning less than $20,000 are eligible for free tax preparation. You must bring with you:

Photo ID & Social Security/Tax ID cards for everyone being claimed
W2 and/or 1099 Statements
If claiming child care expenses, bring documentation and care provider Tax ID Number
Last year's income tax return
If you received unemployment insurance in 2013, bring Form 1099-INT
If self-employed, bring a self-declaration letter stating your income in 2013 and receipts/ledger stating your business expenses
Any relevant tax information

At the Goddard Riverside Community Center, 140 West 140th Street (between Lenox Ave. and Adam Clayton Powell Blvd.) Saturday, March 8th, 10am - 4pm

2.)

NMIC free tax assistance provided by the Food Bank for New York City in partnership with the Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation. Bring your Social Security card or Tax ID # for everyone to be claimed on your return; a photo of yourself and spouse (if applicable; W-2s for all jobs you held in 2013 and any other tax-related documents; a sample check or deposit slip with routing number and account number if you want direct deposit of your refund. Now through April 15th, Mon-Thurs noon-7pm; Saturdays 9am-5pm. (Closed on Mondays in March.) You may also use our self-prep tax program on Saturdays. We also offer assistance to seniors and the disabled (limited to 25 people/day): Mon-Thurs, 8am-noon; Tues-Thurs, 8am-noon during March. NMIC is located at 76 Wadsworth Avenue (near W. 177th St.), First floor. Info: (212) 453-5391

3.)

Tax Online Filing assistance To be eligible, you must be filing less than $55,000 per tax return, have some basic computer literacy and a valid email address. Free. At the Inwood Library (4790 Broadway). three days a week, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11am-1pm. This program will run through April 15th.

4.)

If you need help preparing your tax return, learn about the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.

VITA Program: If you make $52,000 or less, IRS-certified volunteers can inform you about tax credits for which you may qualify, and prepare a basic tax return with electronic filing.
TCE Program: If you are 60 years of age or older, you may qualify for free tax help from IRS-certified volunteers who specialize in issues unique to seniors.

There are thousands of locations across the United States where you can get free tax help through the VITA and TCE programs: http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Free-Tax-Return-Preparation-for-You-by-Volunteers.

5.)

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a special federal tax program that helps low- and moderate-income working individuals and families reduce their income taxes and put more money in their pockets. The credit reduces the amount of federal tax owed, and may even result in a refund. If a qualifying individual or family owes income tax, EITC will reduce the amount of taxes owed. If your tax credit is more than your tax bill, you will receive a refund check-even if you don't owe any taxes. Furthermore, New York State offers its qualifying residents an additional tax credit equal to 30% of the federal EITC for the previous tax year.

To qualify for EITC, workers can file as "single," "head of household" or "married filing jointly."

* If you are a worker with one qualifying child, your total earned income and your federal

adjusted income must each be less than $38,511 (or $43,941 for married workers).

* If you are a worker with two children, your total earned income and your federal adjusted

income must each be less than $43,756 (or $49,186 for married workers).

* If you are a worker with three or more children, your total earned income and your federal adjusted income must each be less than $46,997 (or $52,427 for married workers).

* If you are a worker without children, your total earned income and your federal adjusted

gross income must each be less than $14,590 (or $20,020 for married workers).

Workers with qualifying children must file federal income tax return form 1040 or 1040A and must complete and attach Schedule EIC. Workers without qualifying children can file any tax form - including form 1040EZ. These workers write "EIC" (or the dollar amount of their credit) on the Earned Income Tax Credit line on the tax form. They do not file Schedule EIC. A correct name and valid Social Security number must be provided for every person

listed on the tax return and Schedule EIC, including infants born before December 31. If this information is incorrect or missing, the IRS will delay the refund. For more information on the federal EITC, call the 24-hour Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Hotline at 1-800-TAX-1040, or visit www.irs.gov. To order federal tax forms, call the IRS at 1-800-829-3676. For more information about the New York State EITC, call the informational hotline of the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance at (518) 457-5181, or visit www.tax.ny.gov.

***NEWS, INFORMATION & ONGOING EVENTS***

Green Dot Money Pak Card Scam

There is a Green Dot Money Pak Card Scam taking place all over the country that has come to the our city. This scam starts with a phone call to your home where

a person tells you that you owe the IRS or Utility Company money and that if you don't pay immediately you will be arrested and deported or your electric/gas will be turned off. If you get a call of this nature hang up and call 9-1-1. No government agencies will ask you to make payments using a Green Dot Money Pak Card.

Uptown Games Return on Saturday March 29th

Pedestrian Safety Tips from the 34th Precinct

Before you step off the curb to cross the street, make sure you STOP / LOOK / LISTEN for bicycles and other vehicles. Remember that bicycles are quieter than motor vehicles. MAKE EYE CONTACT with drivers and cyclists to be sure they see you before you start to cross. Give yourself the most time to cross by waiting for a "fresh" green or "walk" signal. Keep scanning as you cross, especially for turning vehicles. Don't stand or walk in a bike lane. Be cautious and avoid texting on your cell phone when crossing the street.

Learn about home heating for your house, building or co-op/condo

Winter can be the perfect time for buildings to start planning to clean up their heating systems and energy bills for next season. NYC Clean Heat is participating in and hosting a number of events on the Upper West Side and the Bronx in March and April to help building decision makers understand the public health impacts of using heavy heating oil and the resources available to them to make the switch to a cleaner alternative. For more information, click on the links below to learn more about each event and to RSVP, or contact NYC Clean Heat:212-656-9202 / info@nyccleanheat.org / nyc.gov/cleanheat. Any building decision maker could benefit from attending these events, but the Upper West Side events may be more useful for co-op and condo board members. Co-op and condo tenants are also welcome to attend the March 29th event.

Wednesday, March 12th, 4:00 - 6:00pm. Upgrade Your Building this Spring to Save Money Next Winter, co-sponsored by Sustainable South Bronx, Councilwoman Annabel Palma, and Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda.
Tuesday, March 18th, 7:00-9:00pm: Intro to Green for Co-ops and Condos, sponsored by Solar One and the Council of New York Cooperatives and Condominiums (CNYC).
Thursday, March 27th, 6:30-8:00pm: House Doctor Series on Cleaner Heating Systems, sponsored by Landmark West.
Saturday, March 29th, 2:00-4:30pm: Safer Air, Lower Energy Bills, Cleaner Heat! This event will include two workshops and an opportunity to network with financing providers and ULS 2 Specialists.
Wednesday April 2nd, 1-2:30pm. Co-sponsored by the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition, UNHP, and FBHC. Fordham Bedford Housing Corporation: 2751 Grand Concourse Bronx, NY 10468
Thursday April 17th, 6:30-8:00pm. Co-sponsored by the Department of Housing Preservation (HPD). Maestro's: 1703 Bronxdale Ave, Bronx, NY 10462.

The Third Annual Thespis Theater Festival/Competition is open!

Plays compete for outstanding prizes! $3,500 for Best Play; $500 each for Best Actor/Actress. Judges from the industry decide on winners. Possibility for reviews. If you'd love to see your work onstage in a beautiful proscenium theater with 20 ft high ceilings and a professional lighting and sound system, we invite you to submit your play. Use of a grand piano if your show needs it. Assistance from theater management in all aspects to make sure your show reaches its highest potential. Free tutorials on how to use the sound/light/projection system. A chance to have your play filmed by professional videographer. And you and your cast are invited to a dazzling ceremony at the end of the festival with prizes announced in front of a live audience. It doesn't get more exciting than this! For more info please visit http://thespisnytheaterfestival.com/thespis-theater-festival-venus-adonis/.

Vision Zero:

Pedestrian Safety & Double-parking on W. 181st Street The 34th Precinct would like to share this information with the Washington Heights and Inwood communities and requests your assistance in sharing the information. During the next 2 weeks, the 34th Precinct will implement Operation Move-Along. It will involve community outreach that will highlight the risks of double parking. The goal is to prevent and deter double parking therefore decreasing accidents and injuries. This outreach will be followed by a period of enforcement. We will be distributing a flier to businesses, organizations, pedestrians, and motorists in the confines of the 34th Precinct specifically on the West 181st Street corridor. In our pursuit of Vision Zero, we urge motorists to please refrain from double parking in the West 181st Street corridor and other locations. When you double park, you obstruct the view of other drivers, pedestrians and cyclists; you impede traffic flow; you increase the chance of a collision. Don't be the cause of a collision or injury or death to somebody's loved one. Please be considerate.