The NANDC Voice

Food Desert to Food Oasis

2009-02-20T15:35:00.000-08:00

Food Desert to Food Oasis - A Symposium to Revitalize South Los Angeles through Grocery Store and Business Development

April 8 & 9, 2009

The California Endowment, Centers for Healthy Communities
1000 N. Alameda Street
Los Angeles CA 90012

Day 1: 8:30am - 5pm
Day 2: 8:30am - 2pm

Join advocates, retailers, labor, and consumers in this summit to revitalize South Los Angeles through grocery store and business development. Participants will hear success stories in community redevelopment and growth from around the country; learn about community involvement; hear retailers' perspective s and their creative solutions; and debate the perceptions and realities of South Los Angeles. The second day will conclude with a discussion of two case studies, solutions to the food desert and a networking lunch.

Sponsored By: Community Health Councils,PolicyLink, Local Initiatives Support Corporation

For more information, visit our website at: www.chc-inc.org or contact Mia Boykin at 323-295-9372 ext. 216

Limited seating available. Please pass this information on.

Free Film Classes for Youth

2009-02-20T14:55:00.000-08:00

Youth from the ages of 14-18 can qualify for six to twelve week courses in film, TV, and computer animation. Classes have limited spaces available and enrollment will be decided on a first come first serve basis.

All students who complete the entire program will receive a Certificate of Completion Award. Completion of the program requires that each student attend every class and finish all assignments. Any student who is unable to complete a class and wishes to receive a certificate must make-up the missed class and assignments at a later date.

What We Do. The New Hope Foundation Film & Art Institute is a non-profit 501(c)3 "mobile" educational program that has the unique approach of actually bringing the school to the youth who, due to a lack of financing and or resources, would otherwise not have the chance to experience the Hollywood dream. The New Hope Foundation Film & Art Institute will bring a team of instructors and equipment, including guest industry professionals, on location to youth in their own community to offer classes, free of charge, with industry standard equipment and state of the art technique. This method of on location teaching will allow the youth to express themselves more naturally and develop the ability to use their creativity in a way that can benefit the community in which they live.

The goal of the New Hope Foundation Film & Art Institute is to provide youth in the communities with the tools and knowledge that can enhance their creative abilities through six week introductory courses on film introduction, photography and computer animation depending on the interest of the student. In addition, as the students qualify, a twelve week continued education will be offered, as well as the opportunity to travel with the school to other areas and use what they learned to help teach others. The classes will then encourage the youth to use their creativity in a manner that can strengthen relationships and contribute to the well being of the community and give them a new career opportunity. This innovative approach of bringing the school on location will give the communities a creative outlet for the youth to use that can continue to work and grow even after having moved on to another neighborhood.

Professional Instructors. With state of the art equipment and qualified instructors the students will learn the same techniques used in professional media.By going on location for filming projects, students will get hands-on film-making experience that main stream multimedia companies use.

Future Opportunities. Students who qualify will be invited to go on location with the team to events and get the chance to help and gain experience in real multimedia jobs.

Internships with Major Companies. Through New Hope Foundation Film & Art Institute, as students qualify, internships with major TV and film studios will be available.

Non-Profit Organizations interested in participating please email information to: contact@filmartinstitute.com.

Contact us:
Film & Art Institute
1953 N. Gower St.
Los Angeles, CA 90068-4008
Tel/Fax: (323) 465-3510
contact@filmartinstitute.com
Website: www.filmartinstitute.com

On Location In Your Community - South Los Angeles

Free Opportunities

Six to Twelve Week Courses in Film , TV, Photography & Computer Animation
Six Week Introductory Film Class
April 18, 2009 - May 30, 2009
Saturdays 9:00am - 4:00pm

This will be an introduction course to film-making. The focus will be to empower the students with a basic understanding of film-making and give them confidence in multimedia related work. There will be a guest speaker on a weekly basis to share their expertise with the students. A promotional video for the school will also be produced and the students are encouraged to participate.

Week 1: Orientation Basic Film Language
Week 2: Basic Light and Sound
Week 3: Basic Video Editing
Week 4: P.S.A. Production
Week 5: Promotional Video Filming
Week 6: Output Formats and Marketing Yourself

This course will be held at:

Paul Robeson Community Center
6569 S. Vermont Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90044
Phone: (323) 752-PAUL
Fax: (323) 778-1917

NEW HOPE FOUNDATION (The Film & Art Institute is a member of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.)

LADWP Giving Away Compact Flourescent Lightbulbs (CFL)

2009-01-31T09:24:00.000-08:00

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) is delivering two FREE compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL) to our residential customers. Delivery teams will be in your area over the next few months to provide you with a bag containing your free bulbs and conservation information.

Why is the LADWP Providing CFLs?

CFLs are one of the simplest and most effective energy savings tools available. One CFL can reduce an annual electric bill by $8 to $10. Just think of how much money you can save on electricity if you replaced every bulb in your home with a CFL! And, the savings continues because a CFL bulb will last 10,000 hours compared to 1,000 hours for a traditional bulb.

WHEN YOU RECEIVE YOUR FREE BULBS INSTALL THEM IMMEDIATELY AND START SAVING MONEY!

Proper CFL Disposal

Please follow the instructions on the box regarding proper disposal. CFLs may be disposed of at LADWP Customer Service Center collection bins or at City S.A.F.E. recycling centers. Call the Household Hazardous Waste Hotline at 1-800-988-6942 (press option 2) or log on to www.lacity.org/SAN/index.htm, and select "Universal Waste" for more disposal information.

For more information regarding the CFL distribution visit www.ladwp.com or call (213) 367-4614.

Don't Dump on LA!

2009-01-30T11:50:00.000-08:00

Do you know that citizen's can receive a $1,000 for reporting illegal dumping. Tune in this Sunday morning to radio station KHHT 92.3 FM's public affairs program "Community Review" at 7 a.m. to learn more. "Don't Dump on LA," the City's illegal dumping prevention campaign, will be featured. During one segment of the hour-long show, host Josefa Salinas will interview Deputy City Attorney Sonja Dawson of the Neighborhood Prosecution Program and Chief Street Services Investigator Gary Harris of the Bureau of Street Services. They will discuss critical issues related to this concern for our city and the $1,000 reward citizens can receive for reporting illegal dumpers. Ads about the campaign are running on the station through mid-February. A commercial about Sunday's morning's show also is airing. If time permits, please tune in to "Community Review" to learn more about "Don't Dump on LA" and the reward.

Richard E. Lee
Public Information Officer
City of Los Angeles
Department of Public Works
200 N. Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213 978-0324

Free Mammograms!

2009-01-27T17:07:00.000-08:00

We will be offering Free mammograms at the FRC on February 4th from 8:30-3:00. This free service will be available to those women without health insurance, who are 40 and over. Please print the attached flyers and share with your contacts.

Registration is recommended.

Family Resource Center invites you to participate in our Women’s Health Day!

Where: L.A. Care Family Resource Center (Located in Plaza Mexico Shopping Center)
Address: 3180 E. Imperial Highway Lynwood, CA 90262
Telephone: 1-310-661-3000
When: Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

NANDC Now Accepting Applications

2009-01-14T11:02:00.000-08:00

ALL STAKEHOLDERS:
NANDC IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR
PRESIDENT AND TWO (2) AT-LARGE BOARD MEMBERS

All stakeholders can apply to fill open seats on our board. You do not have to be registered to vote with L.A. County. You do not have to be a U.S. citizen. Your immigration status does not matter. To be a stakeholder you must do ONE of the following within the EC NANDC boundaries:

1) Live;
2) Work;
3) Own property;
4) Own a business;
5) Attend school; or
6) Attend a religious institution (like a church, mosque or temple).

Your application must include:

1) A copy of your resume
2) A letter addressed to the community from the applicant describing the value the applicant would add to the community as a member of the governing board.
3) A petition signed by a minimum of 10 stakeholders in support of your application. Signatures shall include name, address and telephone number for each NANDC stakeholder.

INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.

The deadline to apply for NANDC President is February 28, 2009. Applications for At-Large position are accepted on an ongoing basis until the seats have been filled.

Email your application to Rachel Capata (click on her name to send an email), or deliver in person to our next meeting. For meeting location info, please visit www.nandc.org.

Facing Foreclosure? Know Someone Who Is?

2009-01-13T16:57:00.000-08:00

HELP FAMILIES PREVENT FORECLOSURE
Because nothing is worse than doing nothing.

Refer residents, friends and family to the Los Angeles Neighborhood Housing Services or LA NHS. LA NHS provides confidential foreclosure prevention clinics and counseling at NO CHARGE.

NO ONE SHOULD PAY FOR A LOAN MODIFICATION

In Los Angeles County, a home is foreclosed every 15 minutes. Don't wait, do something now. Foreclosure affects everyone!

Homeowners will learn about the foreclosure process and the specific steps they must take to prevent foreclosure. Counselors will request to see a homeowner's mortgage statement(s) and monthly budget.

Email LA NHS to register for a clinic here.

Park & Pay Stations Installed Near USC

2009-01-13T15:02:00.000-08:00

The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) is in the process of installing Park & Pay Stations near USC. The pay stations will be activated as follows:

Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Jefferson Bl between Vermont Ave and McClintock Ave (13 pay stations)

Thursday, January 22, 2009
Jefferson Bl between McClintock Ave and Figueroa St (9 pay stations)
west side of Figueroa St south of Jefferson Bl (3 pay stations)

Additional information can be found at here. Traffic officers will be stationed nearby as ambassadors to assist the public the first two days of operation of the new Park & Pay Stations.

As you may know, LADOT has been adjusting parking meter rates and hours of operation since September 2008 to better match the heavy demand for parking throughout the City. Previously, L.A.'s rates were among the lowest in the country, having not been adjusted in over 20 years on the average. The minimum parking meter rate in the City is now $1 per hour, with rates up to $3 and $4 per hour Downtown.

In addition, most meters ceased operation at 6:00 PM, just when they are most needed in many areas to keep parking spaces turning over and available for evening customers. The meter hours have now generally be extended to 8:00 PM Citywide. In entertainment and shopping districts, where the demand for parking extends later, meters operate up to midnight on Friday and Saturday nights and from 11 AM to 8 PM on Sundays.

The parking meter rate for the Pay Stations and all single space meters in the area will be $1 per hour, and the new meter hours will be 8am-8pm Monday-Saturday. The existing time limits, such as the "4 Hour Parking" near the campus, will remain the same.

Important Workshops Regarding the Expo Line

2009-01-13T14:51:00.000-08:00

The City of Los Angeles is conducting community workshops as part of the development of Transit-Oriented District (TOD) Plans and Market Studies for four Metro Exposition Line stations. Please attend the workshop for your station of interest.

The community workshops will be held as follows:

Vermont & Western Expo Stations
Saturday, February 7, 2009
10 am – 2pm
Ahmanson Senior Center (EXPO Center)
3990 South Menlo Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90037

23rd & Flower / Jefferson Stations
Saturday, February 14, 2009
10 am – 2pm
Los Angeles Trade Tech College
Garden Room
400 West Washington Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Issues regarding the Expo Line are of great importance to the citizens of our community. Please plan to attend and spread the word regarding these workshops to as many people as you can.

Don't Dump on L.A.!

2008-11-21T12:14:00.000-08:00

LOS ANGELES (November 20, 2008) - City of Los Angeles public officials today introduced “Don't Dump on LA,” a new prevention campaign targeting South Los Angeles and Wilmington, stressing the City’s $1,000 reward for citizens who report information that leads to the arrest and conviction of illegal dumping violators.

Los Angeles City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo joined Council members Janice Hahn, Council District 15, and Jan Perry, Council District 9, and other public officials to announce the campaign in a news conference at the intersection of Lanzit Avenue and 112th Street, one of the most heavily impacted thoroughfares in South Los Angeles.

“Illegal dumping continues to plague and degrade quality of life in many of our neighborhoods, including South Los Angeles,” said City Attorney Delgadillo. “Together with our Department of Public Works partners, we will continue to target some of the worst areas in our city for illegal dumping and increase awareness of this serious problem so that all of our residents can live in a safe and clean environment.”

In addition to Department of Public Works Board members and the Bureaus of Street Services and Sanitation, representatives of the Los Angeles Police Department, EnvironmentLA (the Environmental Affairs Department), and the California Integrated Waste Management Board joined the elected officials at today’s news conference. The campaign will target severely impacted sections of Council Districts 8, 9, and 15 in South Los Angeles and Wilmington.

"For years, I have worked closely with the community to find ways to keep people from dumping in our neighborhoods. We have installed cameras in alleyways, we have changed the law so that we can impound the cars of people who dump, but the missing piece has been surveillance and enforcement of our laws--which is why today’s announcement is so welcomed," said Councilwoman Janice Hahn. "With the grant we have
received for the “Don’t Dump on LA” campaign, we will soon see increased surveillance and enforcement. We need to make some arrests and set some examples."

EnvironmentLA was awarded a $500,000 California Integrated Waste Management Board grant on behalf of the City to combat illegal dumping and fund the campaign. Cleanup of chronic, illegal dumping sites; additional surveillance of known illegal dumping problem areas; and community outreach for prevention and proactive approaches are components. It will serve as a pilot for the development of an effective incentive and enforcement strategy citywide.

Radio ads on selected stations, in both English and Spanish language, will begin airing as early as late December and early January. Associated websites and radio talk shows will feature the campaign, as well. In-theater ads on illegal dumping prevention also will start to appear at Magic Johnson Theaters in the Crenshaw district during the same time period.

Illegal dumping cleanup efforts cost the City about $12 million annually. “By conducting this campaign, we hope to encourage citizens to report illegal dumping when they see it occurring to help keep our city clean and beautiful and we remind them to call the city’s non-emergency hotline 3-1-1, to report violators,” said Board of Public Works President Cynthia M. Ruiz. “All calls are strictly
confidential,” she added, “and convicted offenders can receive both misdemeanor and felony sentences.”

Citizens also can report illegal dumping online at the following website: http://www.lacity.org/boss/StreetUseInspection/form.htm. The “Don't Dump on LA,” campaign will support efforts of the South Los Angeles Illegal Dumping Prevention Collaborative which was founded by the City Attorney's Office in 2005 to develop prevention strategies to combat the problem and prioritize impacted locations. Members include the Public Works Bureau of Street Services, the Neighborhood
Prosecutor Program, LAPD South Los Angeles Area Senior Lead Officers, the Departments of Building and Safety, Transportation, Housing, and Water and Power.

For more information, contact Richard E. Lee, Public Information Officer of the Department of Public Works Bureau of Sanitation Public Affairs Office at (213) 978-0324, or Frank Mateljan, Press Deputy, Office of the City Attorney at (213) 978-8340.

Invitation to Arts and Cultural Community Meetings

2008-10-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

To: Neighborhood Council Friends and Colleagues
From: BongHwan (BH) Kim, General Manager, Department of Neighborhood Empowerment

The City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs is holding a series of community meetings throughout Los Angeles. Feedback from the meetings is essential to develop the City's new Cultural Master Plan which will provide a vision for the future of arts and culture in Los Angeles, and guide the mission of the Department of Cultural Affairs. The meetings will start promptly and include a presentation and interactive sessions.

Please see the attached flyer for more information, including dates and locations. We hope you can attend one or more of these meetings, and please forward this flyer or personally invite friends and family who are interested in community meetings and the art and culture of Los Angeles.

To find out more about the Cultural Master Plan, visit the
Department of Cultural Affairs website.

For additional information, please contact:
Leora Lutz
Email: leora.lutz@lacity.org
Cultural Master Plan Program Assistant
Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs

NEWS: Ruling Regarding MTA Expo Line Crossings

2008-10-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

In a decision regarding the Expo Line Construction Authority's proposed street-level crossing next to Dorsey HS, the judge has ruled MTA's crossing unsafe and the community and LAUSD's safety concerns valid. The decision is a tentative decision that will either be adopted or amended by the full PUC commission on November 21, but it is a major milestone in the construction of the Expo Rail Line and struggle between a vocal South LA community group and their elected leaders and MTA.

"This is a major battle victory in a long and unfortunate war," said Damien Goodmon, the Chair of United Community Associations, who's project is the Citizens' Campaign to Fix the Expo Rail Line (Fix Expo).

"We are pleased that the Judge heard the safety concerns of the rail safety experts, traffic experts, LAUSD and the community. And we are regretful that the Commission didn't allow hearings on many of the other crossings. We believe that as the evidentiary hearings on Farmdale and Harvard revealed, the evidence used by the Expo Authority to support their assertions that they are building a safe project is both unfounded and has been manipulated."

"We believe it is now incumbent upon our elected officials from the council members to the congressional leaders, to do the responsible thing and listen to the experts and Judge's concerns about the safety of this crossing, and take into account the impacts to the community and schools of the grade separated options. This is a transportation project that will impact this community for 100 years. It is important we have a safe light rail line that is a compliment and a good neighbor to the South LA communities that it passes through."

"Our intent is to now go back to the community and discuss this further, but for now we are relieved that the street-level crossing has been taken off the table."

Russ Quimby international rail safety testified in the hearing that the street-level crossing left a high risk of catastrophic accident http://fixexpo.blogspot.com/2008/10/international-rail-safety-expert-russ.html

As proposed, the Farmdale Avenue crossing creates a high risk that students will be injured and killed because the proposed safety mitigation measures essentially put the burden on students to maintain their own safety. The proposed crossing also creates a higher risk of a catastrophic accident. [....]

By "catastrophic accident," I mean an accident involving fatalities and/or injuries to a large number of people. As proposed, the at-grade Farmdale Avenue crossing creates the notable risk that a catastrophic accident may well occur under one of several different scenarios. For example:

First, that a train will collide with a vehicle with sufficient force to either derail the train into and/or push the vehicle into the proposed "holding pens" where several hundred students are trapped inside, killing or seriously injuring scores of students in a single accident.

Second, that a train will collide with a vehicle (particularly a truck or bus) rupturing and igniting a fuel tank which would engulf students in the holding pen in flaming diesel or gasoline.

Third, a combination of the above two scenarios where the students are crushed and burned simultaneously by vehicles and/or a derailed train.

Regarding the possible delay the changes to the project may require:

"Since when is building something more quickly more important than building it safely? Additionally, MTA's own documents show that from the inception of this project, 15 years ago, the community has been said the crossings near our schools were not safe. But out of bureaucratic arrogance and political indifference, MTA and our political leaders have fought us at every turn. So if there is a delay to the project, the delay is of MTA's own making and the failure of political leadership to address legitimate community concerns."

References to the history of community comments documented in MTA's own studies on the Expo Line.

Regarding impacts the project could have on the Expo Line budget:

"In 2004, MTA pulled this project out of the federal New Starts Program, in the process walking away from $320 million federal dollars, saying they'd spend the local money instead because they wanted to speed up construction of the project. That doesn't sound like a broke agency to me. That sounds like an agency with plenty of financial options. In the past year alone, MTA has appropriated $222 million extra dollars to the project, including $54 million to add an overpass in Culver City. And they appropriated these funds while telling us with a straight face that there's no money for grade separation in South LA. It is insulting to the intelligence of people that have followed this issue to suggest this $3 billion agency, that has engaged in these actions, doesn't have the money to make the Expo Line safe in our community - particularly right next to our large urban schools. MTA has the resources, MTA has many options, but MTA has always and continues to lack a concern for safety in South LA."

Some excerpts from Koss' ruling, which is available on the web here.

"A.07-05-013, for authority to construct an at-grade crossing at Farmdale Ave. in the City of Los Angeles, should be denied. "

"Authorization to construct a light rail line over an existing pedestrian tunnel crossing at Harvard Blvd., in the City of Los Angeles, requested in A.06-12-020, should be denied."

"Expo Authority proposed a state-of-the-art system of gates and other warning devices at the Farmdale crossing, including swing gates to allow pedestrians to exit the rail right-of-way when all other gates are down. All of these gates, however, can be avoided easily by pedestrians. Considering the large number of crossings during peak periods, and the student populations using the crossing, we find that any system of gates or other warning devices at-grade would not eliminate all potential safety hazards."

"The parties discussed several other crossings at or near school sites along other light-rail lines. However, none of these cases presented the unique characteristics of the proposed Farmdale crossing at Dorsey. This issue, therefore, provided little or no weight in our determination of practicability."

Contact:
Damien Goodmon
323.845.2003

Prepare Today - Survive Tomorrow!

2008-10-22T16:58:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, October 25, 2008 from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM at the California African American Museum (CAAM), Levitical Network will host a free “PREPARE TODAY – SURVIVE TOMORROW” DISASTER PREPAREDNESS FAIR along with State Farm Insurance, the American Red Cross, Southern California Edison, Southern California Gas Company, and State Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas.

People of all ages are invited to attend this festive and informative event that will feature experts in earthquake, fire and other natural disasters who will share how we can assist our families, friends, foes, communities, churches and businesses in preparation. In addition to great speakers and gobs of information, there will be food, fun, music and entertainment; and activities for the kids and youth.

Please take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.

CLICK IMAGE FOR LARGER VIEW

Your Genes: Choice or Chance?

2008-10-22T16:43:00.000-07:00

Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas and
The Empowerment Congress
Invite you to join us in a very special and intriguing discussion on

Your Genes: Choice or Chance?

Saturday, October 25, 2008, from 1:00-3:00 p.m.
California Science Center
700 State Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90037

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER ONLINE!
The past decade in biological research has produced startling findings and set the stage for major potential inroads toward progress against human disease.

In particular scientific research on the human genome has pitted the hopes for progress toward the eradication of disease against ethical concerns about manipulating the human genome and worries over public access to private data.

What is the role of our genes vs. our personal health choices in determining health outcomes?

As genetic information becomes more readily available should we err on the side of privacy in making decisions regarding employment, insurance and law or should we override these issues in order to address a greater common good?

What are the ethical issues associated with manipulating the human genome and should theological considerations play any role in the formulation of policies and guidelines pertaining to genomic research and personal decision-making?

Join us in this timely and exciting conversation with scientists and other community members to learn more about your genes and the choices and decisions you can make for yourself and your family.

Admission is FREE!

Register online: goto.californiasciencecenter.org/sciencematters, or by phone: (213) 744-2420.

Featured panelists include:

Conan Nolan—moderator: Reporter, NBC4

Pragna Patel, Ph.D.: Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Genetic Medicine, USC School of Medicine

Mr. Olophius Perry, Esq.: District Director, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, L.A. District Office

James J. Walter, Ph.D.: Professor of Bioethics and Chair, The Bioethics Institute, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, California

Stanley F. Nelson, M.D.: Professor and Vice Chair of Human Genetics and Professor of Psychiatry, Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA

Support for this program was provided by the California Community Empowerment Foundation and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

City of L.A. Green Building Program

2008-10-10T14:18:00.000-07:00

City of Los Angeles Adopts the Green Building Program

On April 22, 2008, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa joined City Council President Eric Garcetti and Councilmembers Jan Perry, Ed Reyes and Bill Rosendahl to sign the Green Building Program into law. The Program is expected to reduce the City's carbon emissions by more than 80,000 tons by 2012, or the equivalent of taking 15,000 cars off the road.

The ordinance establishes a series of incentives and requirements for developers to meet USGBC LEED® standards. Effective May 29, 2008, the Standard of Sustainable Excellence gives builders voluntarily committing to pursue LEED Silver certification or higher priority processing through the Department of City Planning and Expedited Services through the Bureau of Engineering. These incentives are in addition to the existing Priority Plan Check processing through the Department of Building and Safety and Priority Service Planning through the Department of Water and Power. The project team must include a LEED AP, demonstrate how the project will achieve LEED Silver certification or higher, register with the USGBC, and attain formal certification.

Effective November 1, 2008, the Standard of Sustainability applies to non-residential projects 50,000 square feet or above and residential projects 50,000 square feet or above and seven stories or more. These projects must meet the intent of LEED at the Certified level. After May 1, 2009, residential projects 50,000 square feet or above, 50 units or more, and six stories or less must also meet the intent of LEED at the Certified level. The project team must include a LEED AP and demonstrate how the project meets the intent of LEED at the Certified level, but is not required to register with the USGBC.

The Green Building Program also establishes the Green Building Team. This cross-departmental Team fosters conversation between developers and City staff regarding policy-related issues posing obstacles to building green. Regular public meetings occur on the first Wednesday of every month. The Team will conduct public outreach, provide policy recommendations, train City staff, review the Standards, and produce an annual Green Building Report Card.

More information is available online at EnvironmentLA.org.

Protect Your Health - Get a Flu Shot

2008-10-10T13:57:00.000-07:00

At least 36,000 people die each year from the flu. Protect your health and the health of those you love. Get your FREE flu shot!

Proteger su salud...¡Conseguir tu vacuna contra la gripe! Mas a menos 36,000 personas mueren cada año de la gripe. Proteger tu salud y la salud de ésos que amas. ¡Conseguir tu vacuna contra la gripe LIBRE!

St. Vincent Catholic Church
November 2 from 8 am - 2 pm
621 Adams Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90007

T.H.E. Clinic
November 8 from 9 am - 12 pm
3834 S. Western Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90062

Ted Watkins Park (Health Fair)
November 1 from 10 am - 2 pm
1335 E. 103rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90002

LA City Fire Station #15
(University Village)
November 20 from 10 am - 1 pm
915 W. Jefferson Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90007

South Health Center
October 20 — December 12
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday
8 am - 11 am
1522 E. 102nd St. (in the trailer)
Los Angeles, CA 90002

Crenshaw Christian Center
October 23 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
7901 S. Vermont Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90000

St. Michael’s Catholic Church
November 23 from 8 am - 1 pm
1016 W. Manchester Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90044

Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza
October 23 from 10 am - 4 pm
3650 Martin Luther King, Jr Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90008

Notice of Public Hearing on NC Financial Disclosure

2008-10-10T13:31:00.000-07:00

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, Saturday, October 11, 2008

To: Neighborhood Council Friends and Colleagues
From: Board of Neighborhood Commissioners

The Board of Neighborhood Commissioners (BONC) will hold two Town Hall sessions on Saturday, October 11, 2008, at 11 am and 1:30 pm at the Citywide Congress of Neighborhoods to learn about and provide input on the various limited personal financial disclosure options for neighborhood councils currently under consideration by the City Council of Los Angeles. The Town Hall format is an opportunity for us to hear from neighborhood council members and stakeholders. See links for full City Ethics Commissions (CEC) Report and proposed language here - Report from CEC dated 02/19/08 regarding financial disclosure and Form 700.

Please plan to attend and make your voice heard!

Gang Reduction & Youth Development

2008-10-03T11:58:00.000-07:00

MAYOR’S OFFICE OF GANG REDUCTION & YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

On October 1, 2008, the Mayor’s Office of Gang Reduction and Youth Development issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the implementation of gang prevention services in six (6) designated Gang Reduction and Youth Development (GRYD) Zones in the City of Los Angeles.

Over a 6-month period, a total of $3 million, $500,000 per GRYD Zone, will be available for distribution through this RFP, subject to the availability of funding from the City of Los Angeles and the State of California.

GRYD Zones seek to bring about significant, long-term reductions in gang activity and improve overall community health through collaborative efforts at local, state, and federal levels. Organizations will apply a comprehensive gang reduction and youth development model in addressing the full range of individual, family, peer, school, and community factors thatcontribute to high levels of juvenile delinquency and gang activity. The successful bidder's proposal must demonstrate its ability to deliver services in the core area of gang prevention.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

The Request for Proposals (RFP) is available at the Los Angeles Business Assistance Virtual Network (LABAVN) at www.labavn.org. Registration is mandatory in order to access and apply for the RFP. Signing up on LABAVN will also provide you with any updated information on this RFP and other contractual opportunities offered through the City of Los Angeles. If there are technical assistance questions regarding the LABAVN site, please email support@labavn.org.

NEEDS ASSESSMENTS

A copy of the needs assessments that were conducted in the six (6) designated GRYD Zones can be found on LABVN and on the Mayor’s website located at www.lacity.org/mayor under the section titled “Villaraigosa plan.” Click on Public Safety, then on Gang Reduction Strategy and the needs assessments and the statistical data maps can be found when scrolling down to the bottom of the page. The RFP is also available on the Mayor's website.

PROPOSER’S CONFERENCES

Two proposer’s conferences have been scheduled to answer questions about this RFP on Thursday, October 9th at 9:00am-11:00am, and also from 12:00pm-2:00pm. At these conferences, GRYD and City staff will provide an overview to the RFP document and respond to questions regarding requirements of the RFP. This conference is not mandatory. Please bring your own copy of the RFP. Copies of the RFP will NOT be provided at the conferences.

Thursday, October 9th, 2008
First Conference: 9:00am - 11:00am
Second Conference: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
EXPO Center
3890 S. Menlo Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90037

For further questions regarding the RFP process, please email your questions to
LAGRYD@lacity.org or you may call (213) 473-7796.

Financial Crisis Seminar

2008-10-03T11:50:00.000-07:00

Click the image for a larger view.

Register to Vote!

2008-10-03T11:28:00.000-07:00

Ready for a Change? Want to Avoid More of the Same?

First...You and everyone you know must Register to Vote!

On November 4, 2008, millions of people will cast their vote for the next president of the United States. This year there is unprecedented excitement and passion to change America, but this momentum can only lead to victory if those who feel it are registered to vote.

The deadline to register to vote is October 20, 2008. If you are not registered to vote, or if you have moved or changed your name, please visit the California Secretary of State's website today!

Make sure your friends' and family's voices are heard on Election Day - be sure they are registered to vote! Simply forward this notice to them by copying and pasting the text into an email - or send them a link to this site.

Once you and everyone you know is registered to vote, be sure you are signed up to vote-by-mail. Voting by mail is easy: No traffic. No lines. No hassle. The deadline to sign-up to vote-by-mail is October 28, 2008.

For voters registered in Los Angeles County, simply click here to sign-up to vote-by-mail. Or click here to become a permanent vote-by-mail voter, so that your ballot arrives at your address every election.

For voters registered outside of Los Angeles County, click here to sign-up to vote-by-mail.

If you are a voter in Los Angeles County, you have another option to vote early. Beginning Monday, October 6, you can visit the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder's Office in Norwalk and vote early in-person.

Early Voting in Los Angeles County:
Beginning October 6, 2008
from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Weekdays
(Hours will be extended as Election Day nears)
Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder's Office
12400 Imperial Highway, 3rd Floor
Norwalk, CA 90650

For updates on voting in Los Angeles County, click here to visit the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder's website.

Stop School Violence!

2008-10-02T12:58:00.000-07:00

The California State Senate Public Safety Committee, The Senate Select Committee on Urban School Governance, Senator Gloria Romero and Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas

Invite you to

SCHOOL VIOLENCE:
PREVALENCE, TRENDS, IMPACT AND PREVENTION

an Informational Joint Committee Hearing

Thursday, October 2, 2008
5:00 – 7:00pm
West Adams Preparatory High School
1500 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007

Is the increase in school violence a series of isolated incidents, or an ominous trend? How are schools coping? What can the community do to stem the tide of Black vs. Brown violence? The joint committees seek to address these questions, and Senator Ridley-Thomas looks forward to hearing from YOU.

For more information, or to confirm your attendance please call the 26th Senate District Office at (213) 745-6656.

Workplace Hollywood

2008-10-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

Workplace Hollywood is a community based organization formed by the entertainment industry to ensure that individuals from economically disadvantaged and under-represented communities of color can successfully compete for (and gain access to) jobs in the industry.

Go to: www.workplacehollywood.org or email lkaplan@workplacehoolwood.org.

Minority Outreach Symposium IV

2008-10-02T11:39:00.000-07:00

MINORITY OUTREACH SYMPOSIUM IV

California State University
Northridge, California
Saturday, October 18, 2008
2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
(Reception to follow)

Offering New Strategies to Engage Minority Communities in all facets of Society by:

- Building City-wide Coalitions
- Developing Ongoing Communications and Relationships
- Strengthening Awareness of our Cultural Similarities

Honorary Chairs: Rabbi Steven Jacobs, Senator Art Torres and Congresswoman Maxine Waters

Please RSVP to Elizabeth Badger (818) 713-9737 or MinorityOutreach@aol.com

48th District - TALENT SEARCH

2008-10-02T11:18:00.000-07:00

Click on the image for a larger view.

$10,000 Scholarships Available

2008-10-02T11:03:00.000-07:00

The Hispanic Scholarship Fund will be awarding $10,000 scholarships this fall as part of a program with Marathon Oil Corporation.

They will be awarded to minority students for up to 2 years - a potential of $20,000 per student, plus up to 3 summers of paid internships with Marathon!

These opportunities are open to African American, Asian/Pacific-Islander and American Indian students as well as Hispanic students.

Please get the information about these excellent scholarships directly into the hands of your students. To accomplish this, please forward this notice to some of the following people, with a request that they email this information to students:

1) Persons responsible for minority/under-represented students in your community/school/workplace;

2) Persons coordinating scholarships in your community/school/workplace;

3) Someone in administration/student affairs in your community/school/workplace who can email this information directly to your students/youth who may be interested.

The application deadline for this program is November 1, so please get this information to students as soon as possible.

Specific eligibility criteria and the application itself can be viewed at
www.hsf.net/Scholarships.aspx?id=464.

Please keep in mind that HSF awards over 4,100 scholarships each year, across disciplines, and that applying for the Marathon program also qualifies students for other opportunities, many of which are designated for students in your in your community/school/workplace.

Dahlia Ferlito
Youth Clinical Outreach Coordinator
REAL Youth Center
Asian Pacific Health Care Venture
1530 Hillhurst Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90027
P: (323) 644-3880 x 261
F: (323) 644-3892
www.realyc.com

Year-Round Jobs Initiative - Job Fair

2008-07-14T10:30:00.000-07:00

Assemblyman Mike Dave (48th District) in Partnership with Crenshaw Employment Development Department (EDD), Southeast L.A.-Crenshaw Worksource Center, Mothers in Action, L.A. Sentinel, and the Brotherhood Crusade presents:

The 2nd Annual "Year-Round Jobs Initiative" Job Fair

SATURDAY, JULY 19, 2007, 9AM -1PM

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA'S GALEN CENTER
3400 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90037
(on the corner of Jefferson and Figueroa)

18 years of age and older
Dress for success and bring your resume!
Meet and interview with employers
Find out about job opportunities
Attend Workshops:Resume Writing, Interview Techniques & Dress for Success

For more information contact: Anton Blakely at
Assemblyman Mike Davis' District Office at (213) 744-2111
or email to: anton.blakely@asm.ca.gov

Earthquake Preparedness

2008-07-14T10:25:00.000-07:00

Are you prepared for a major earthquake in Southern California?

Learn what you can do!

LAFD Earthquake Preparedness Workshop
Thursday, July 24, 2008
7pm

Highland Park - Ebell Club
131 S. Avenue 57
Los Angeles, CA 90042

Sponsored by the Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council and
City Council Districts 1 & 14
(Refreshments Provided)
Please RSVP to
ngatto@ucla.edu
323-256-7122

Expo Light Rail Workshop

2008-06-24T16:18:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon,

The California Public Utilities Commission is holding a Public Workshop on the Exposition Construction Authority's grade crossing application for the Harvard Avenue grade crossing near Foshay Learning Center. The workshop is designed to provide the public an opportunity to appear and be heard on issues related to this proposed grade crossing for the Exposition Light Rail project, portions of which are currently under construction.

Date: Wednesday, July 2, 2008,
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Location: Foshay Learning Center
Student Auditorium
3751 S. Harvard Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90018

To view the complete announcement, please click here.

Have a good day.

Greg Starosky
Government/Community Relations Representative
Exposition Construction Authority
213.243.5534

Free Tuition

2008-06-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

Syracuse University has 10 Full Rides for African American Men and Women Interested in Studying Architecture

Just in case you know someone who may be interested. Syracuse University has 10 full scholarships for African American men and women interested in studying architecture.

Mark Robbins, Dean of Syracuse University's School of Architecture is desperately seeking young men and women of color interested in pursuing a five year professional degree in Architecture. He says he's deeply committed to bringing diversity to his field and has scholarship money set aside to fully cover education costs for 10 students.

Syracuse University's School of Architecture has a great reputation and this seems like a terrific opportunity, so please pass this on info to everyone you know.

Contact: Mark Robbins, Dean, School of Architecture
Phone: 315 443- 2255
Email: robbinsm@syr.edu

For the Children...

2008-06-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends,

WaMu and with the aid of KaBoom!, the YWCA Greater Los Angeles will build a much need playground for the 2-5 years old at the YWCA Compton site on Saturday, August 16th, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. In order to successfully do this within the six hours, we will need man power and woman power to help us build. We are in need of 125 volunteers. Please contact me for a Volunteer Form. Please email it to your friends and family. They can complete the form and email it back to events@ywcagla.org.

We had a very successful Design Day with the children and Washington Mutual. They are counting on us to do our part. I encourage everyone to sign up and help us make this a wonderful day for the YWCA and YWCA Compton Child Development Center. If you belong to an organization who does public service, this is a wonderful service project that will impact the health and lives of the children. There is a job for everyone! Please sign up for a committee and bring some friends. There will be plenty of refreshments.

Thanks in advance,

Leslie

Leslie Ann Orticke
Fund Development Associate
YWCA of Greater Los Angeles
3345 Wilshire Boulevard Suite 300
Los Angeles, CA 90010
(213) 365-2991 Ext. 1330
(213) 365-9887 Fax
Leslie.Orticke@ywcagla.org

Heat Advisory

2008-06-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

Heat Advisory: Stay Safe in Hot Temperatures

LOS ANGELES – High temperatures are forecasted for today and this weekend throughout Los Angeles County. Los Angeles County Health Officer and Public Health Director, Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, would like to remind everyone that precautions should be taken, especially by those people sensitive to the heat.

“While people don't need to be told it's hot outside, they do need to be reminded how to take care of themselves, children, the elderly, and their pets when the weather gets hotter," said Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, Director of Public Health and Health Officer. "When temperatures are high, prolonged sun exposure may cause dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Never leave children, elderly people, or pets unattended in closed vehicles, even with the windows ‘cracked’, because temperatures inside can quickly rise to life-threatening levels.

If you plan to be outdoors, take precautions to protect yourself from the heat. Symptoms of dehydration and heat cramps include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, headaches, muscle cramps, and increased thirst. Individuals with these symptoms should be moved to a cooler, shaded place and given water or sport drinks. More severe symptoms such as diminished judgment, disorientation, pale and clammy skin, a rapid and weak pulse, and/or fast and shallow breathing may indicate heat exhaustion or impending heat stroke and requires immediate medical attention.

Several tips for beating the heat include:
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
• Drink water or sports drinks often (do not wait until you are thirsty), and avoid drinking alcohol.
• Offer help to those in your neighborhood with limited access to air conditioning and transportation, such as seniors or those who are ill. Check on them frequently or take them to a location with air conditioning.
• During peak heat hours stay in an air-conditioned area. If you don't have access to air conditioning in your home, visit public facilities such as shopping malls, parks, and libraries to stay cool.
• Avoid unnecessary exertion, such as vigorous exercise during peak sun hours, if you are outside or in a non-air conditioned building.
• Stay out of the sun if you do not need to be in it. When in the sun, wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim, and loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from sun damage.

The Department of Public Health is committed to protecting and improving the health of the nearly 10 million residents of Los Angeles County. Through a variety of programs, community partnerships and services, Public Health oversees environmental health, disease control, and community and family health. Public Health comprises more than 4,000 employees and an annual budget exceeding $750 million.

To learn more about Public Health and the work we do, please visit www.publichealth.lacounty.gov.

Free Advance

2008-06-18T10:32:00.000-07:00

The Honorable
Judy Chu, Ph.D.
Chair, State Board of Equalization
and
The Honorable
Mike Davis
Assemblymember, 48th District
cordially invite you to attend a

FREE TAX SEMINAR FOR NONPROFIT
AND EXEMPT ORGANIZATIONS

Friday, July 18, 2008
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
(check-in at 8:30 a.m.)

Los angeles Southwest College, theater
1600 West imperial Highway
Los angeles, Ca 90047
Free Tax Seminar for Nonprofit and Exempt Organizations – July 18, 2008

Pre-registration by July 11, 2008 is recommended. Register online at www.boe.ca.gov/sutax/nonprofitsched.htm
E-mail your registration information to SouthLANP@boe.ca.gov
Fax your registration to 213-593-1317
Mail your registration to: State Board of Equalization, Attn: OSD, 450 N Street, MIC:19, Sacramento, CA 95814-0019

For additional information, please call 213-593-1311. The location is accessible to the disabled. If you require special assistance, please call 213-593-1311.

Presentations include:

• Property Tax Exemptions
• State Board of Equalization
• Sales and Use Taxes for Nonprofit Organizations
• Internal Revenue Service
• Tax Laws and Compliance for Nonprofit Organizations
• Franchise Tax Board
• Employment Taxes and the Nonprofit Organization
• Employment Development Department
• Recent Developments in Charity Law
• Office of the Attorney General
• Grant Writing
• Center for Nonprofit Management

California's New Cell Phone Law

2008-06-10T12:22:00.000-07:00

New Cell Phone Laws Taking Effect July 1

Teens Have To Hang Up; Adults Must Be “Hands-Free”

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) today issued an important reminder to all motorists that two new restrictions on the use of cellular phones while driving go into effect on July 1. The first law prohibits anyone from using a hand-held cell phone while operating a vehicle on California roadways. Operators of vehicles requiring a Class “A” or Class “B” driver’s license, such as large trucks, can use a push-to-talk device such as a Nextel through 2010.

“We know that cell phones are the number one cause of distracted-driving accidents. Getting people’s hands off their phones and onto their steering wheels will save lives and make California’s roads safer,” said Gov. Schwarzenegger.

The second law going into effect July 1 prohibits anyone under the age of 18 from using any type of cell phone while driving. Cell phones can continue to be used by those 18 and older if they have either a wireless or hard-wired head set in one ear.

“New, inexperienced drivers need to focus their full attention on operating a vehicle and not be distracted by phone calls,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow.

Violations carry a minimum base fine of $20 for the first offense and $50 for subsequent offenses. When court costs and other fees are added to the fines, they often double or even triple the amount of the base fine. There will be no grace period to avoid penalties under these new laws and officers can begin issuing citations July 1.

According to CHP statistics, 1,091 crashes in 2007 were blamed on drivers using hand-held cell phones. A total of 447 people were injured in those crashes.

For more information about the new cell phone laws, including a list of frequently asked questions in English and Spanish, please visit the CHP’s website at www.chp.ca.gov.

Public Hearing on Housing

2008-06-02T12:01:00.000-07:00

The Department of City Planning
2006-2014 Housing Element Update

Notice of Public Hearing

Special Joint Meeting
City Planning Commission with
Affordable Housing Commission

Thursday
June 12, 2008
8:30 - 11:30 am
City Hall
Room 1010
200 N Spring Street
Los Angeles CA 90012

Thursday
June 26, 2008
8:30 - 11:30 am
Van Nuys City Hall
Council Chamber, 2nd Floor
14410 Sylvan Street
Van Nuys CA 91402

Proposed 2006-2014 Update to the Housing Element of the General Plan Case No. CPC-2008-2120-GPA Citywide General Plan Amendment

The City of Los Angeles will conduct two (2) Public Hearings regarding the proposed 2006-2014 Update to the Housing Element. You have received this notice because you have indicated an interest in the project. The proposed project is an amendment of the current 1998-2005 Housing Element of the General Plan for the 2006-2014 planning period.

This update to the Housing Element satisfies the requirements of Government Code Sections 65580 - 65589.9 by (1) identifying sites which can accommodate the City’s share of the State’s housing need (Regional Housing Needs Assessment or RHNA) of 112, 876 units of housing without the need for any change in zoning and (2) providing a statement of goals, objectives, policies and programs the City intends to implement to assure that those housing units meet the needs of all income groups in the City for the years 2006 to 2014. The Housing Element of the General Plan is amended every 5 to 7 years.

Public Hearings will be conducted by the City Planning Commission and the Affordable Housing Commission (Commissions) on June 12 and June 26, 2008 at 8:30 AM. The Commissions will consider all testimony presented to the City at that time and any written communications received prior to the hearings. The Commissions will subsequently prepare a recommendation, which will be considered by the City Council at a public hearing on a later date. The environmental documentation (ENV-2007-5270-EAF) will be among the matters addressed by the City Council on this later date. Written communications and comments should be addressed to Naomi Guth, City Planning Department, 200 N. Spring Street, Room 721, Los Angeles, CA 90012, and should reference City Planning Case Number CPC-2008-2120-GPA.

Copies of the Revised Draft of the Update of the Housing Element and relevant documents are available for review at the Department of City Planning and the City’s central and regional libraries. Electronic copies are also available online at the Department of City Planning’s website cityplanning.lacity.org (click on “Draft Housing Element Update 2006-2014” under “What’s New”).

Let's Talk about Iraq

2008-05-21T14:33:00.000-07:00

Iraq & Middle East Peace Forum at Cal State L.A.

Thursday, May 29th, 2008 at 7:30 pm
Cal State Los Angeles
Golden Eagle Building, 3rd Floor, Ballroom
5151 State University Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90032

Moderated by Sonali Kolhatkar of KPFK 90.7 FM, and "Afghan Women's Mission"

Speakers Include:

Raed Jarrar is an Iraqi political analyst and consultant to American Friends Service Committee's Iraq Program currently based in Washington, D.C. After the U.S.-led invasion, Jarrar became the country director for CIVIC Worldwide, the only door-to-door casualty survey group in post-war Iraq. He then established Emaar, (meaning "reconstruction" in Arabic); a grassroots organization that provided humanitarian and political aid to Iraqi internally displaced persons (IDPs). Emaar delivered medicine and food as well as helped initiate micro-enterprise projects for IDPs. Additionally, Emaar engaged in political advocacy on behalf of displaced populations.

Ann Wright resigned from the U.S. Foreign Service on March 19, 2003, while serving as Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Mongolia. She resigned due to her disagreement with the Bush administration's decision to go to war in Iraq without the authorization of the UN Security Council, the lack of effort in resolving the Israel-Palestinian situation, the lack of policy on North Korea and unnecessary curtailment of civil liberties in the United States. Ms. Wright joined the Foreign Service in 1987 and served as Deputy Chief of Mission of US Embassies in Sierra Leone, Micronesia and briefly in Afghanistan. Before entering the Foreign Service, she served in the Army and has a combined regular Army/Army Reserve service time of 29 years. She served primarily in special operations units and attained the rank of Colonel. Ann Wright will also have her book for sale at the event, called "Dissent Voices of Conscience" about how government insiders speak out against the Iraq War.

Edgar Cuevas was stationed in Germany for three years as a Cavalry Scout for the United States Army. Twelve days before his contract was about to expire he was Stop Lossed and forced to serve in Iraq for a year and a half. He served in Iraq from February of 2004 through March of 2005. He was stationed in Tikrit and witnessed innocent people being mishandled and tortured. He is a member of 'Iraq Veterans Against the War" in Los Angeles.

Sponsored by the "Student Friends Service Committee of CSULA". Co-sponsored by the Humanist Association at CSULA. For more info call 310-795-2235.

Want to Save $$$ on Property Taxes?

2008-05-21T14:30:00.000-07:00

The UNNC Neighborhood Council offers a Free Mills Act and Cultural Monument Application Workshop with Conservation Easement Information
May 31, 2008 from 9:30-11:00 am

At the LAPD Drop-in Center
4012 Washington Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90018
(near 10th Avenue)

Mills Act Applications are due on June 27, 2008.

The Mills Act Program is designed to encourage preservation of historic properties; these properties can be either residential or commercial. If approved, the property owner enters into a contract with the city of Los Angeles to use funds resulting from the reduction in property taxes to restore or maintain the structure. This approval remains with the property and is a positive marketing tool when the property is sold. Eligible properties must be either a contributor to an established Historic Preservation Overlay Zone or a Los Angeles City Cultural Monument.

Owners who purchased property after 1995 have the greatest potential benefit. Those who purchased property in the 1980’s may see a decrease. Those who owned property prior to the passage of Proposition 13 would receive no benefit.

The Mills Act application requires either a substantial time commitment from the property owner or the services of a professional. Computing potential property tax savings is the first step in determining whether to complete the application process. The application can be downloaded from the Planning Department website or can be obtained from the historic resources office on the sixth floor of the Los Angeles city hall.
The application handbook and forms require multiple downloads.

Please review the application prior to the workshop, if possible, and bring it to the workshop. Photos of the property interior and exterior are also useful.

Please R.S.V.P. to: mmdarch@ca.rr.com.

Voices of the Comminty - Voces De La Communidad

2008-05-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

The Figueroa Corridor Community Land Trust, in conjunction with other local organizations and neighborhood residents, invites to you participate in:

VOICES OF THE COMMUNITY - VOCES DE LA COMUNIDAD

When: Saturday, May 31st from 9:00am to 12:00 noon
Where: Auditorium of St. Vincent's School
(on the west side of Figueroa, halfway between 23rd Street and Adams)

Councilmember Jan Perry, Councilmember Ed Reyes, and staff from the Planning Department will be there to hear presentations from community residents about issues of concern.

Our focus has been on two neighborhoods: Estrella neighborhood (bounded by Washington/Hoover/Adams/Figueroa) and MLK/South Main (bounded by Jefferson/Broadway/Vernon/Avalon).

Over the past six months, we have been gathering information about these neighborhoods (through our March 1st Community Walks, and a Fall 2007 Community Health Survey). We look forward to this opportunity to present these findings to the City, and to dialogue with the Councilmembers and other City staff about solutions.

WE INVITE ALL NEIGHBORS AND OTHER INTERESTED FOLKS TO JOIN US!

Registration at 8:30am. Breakfast, childcare and simultaneous translation (English/Spanish) provided.

To RSVP or for information, contact Blanca Rivera or Tafarai Bayne at 213-784-4140 ext 103 or 102.

Improving the Lives of Girls and Women in L.A.

2008-05-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

Please call today. Space is limited! Please Join Us!

When: Wednesday, May 21st, 2008
Time:6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Exposition Park Intergenerational
Community Center, Inc. (EPICC)
3980 S. Menlo Ave.
Los Angeles,CA 90037

Why: The Commission on the Status of Women wants to hear about the issues that are most important to women in the City of Los Angeles. Download Agenda at here.

A resource table will be available for organizations interested in providing
information about their community programs and services. If you are interested in providing information, please contact Veronica Hendrix at the Commission office (213) 978-0300.

The Los Angeles City Commission on the Status of Women is a City department that was established by ordinance by the City Council and Mayor in 1975. In 1980, the Commission was made a permanent department. The Commission is charged with the responsibility of ensuring that all women have full and equal participation in the affairs of City Government and promotes the general welfare of women and girls in the Los Angeles Community.

Reasonable accommodations as well as information in alternative formats are available upon request. Sign language interpreters, assisted-listening devices, other auxiliary aids and/or services may be provided upon request. To ensure availability, you are advised to make your request at least 72 hours prior to the meeting. For additional information, please call (213) 978-0300 Voice or (213) 978-2197 TDD.

Los Angeles City Commission on the Status of Women
200 North Spring Street, Room 2111
Los Angeles, California 90012
Phone: (213) 978-0300
Fax: (213) 978-0309
E-mail: laccsw@lacity.org

Black Airline Pilots Summer Program

2008-05-19T10:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends & Colleagues,

This summer the Organization of Black Airline Pilots (OBAP) will hold 2 Aviation Career Education Camps sponsored by Delta Air Lines.

The purpose of each one-week program is to introduce interested youth to the world of aviation by exposing them to the many challenging careers and opportunities which the aviation industry has to offer.

This is a program that I've been involved in for several years and I'm extremely passionate about it and what it does for children. Please take the time to read the brochure/application and pass it along to anyone that you know who may be interested. Go to: www.acecamps.org.

The age range is for boys and girls between 14-18 years old. The best part of the camp other than the exposure is that it is FREE!!!!

Delta Air Lines pays the entire cost.

Thanks for spreading the word,

Michael Gaillard, Delta Air Lines
Atlanta ACE Camp Director of Admissions

Expo Line Forum

2008-05-05T14:40:00.000-07:00

In response to community concerns, the neighborhood councils and community organizations have decided to organize two community forums on the Expo Line for the upcoming month of May.

The Expo Line community forum at Dorsey HS will start at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday May 22, 2008.

The Expo Line community forum at Foshay Learning Center Auditorium will start at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday May 29, 2008.

The format will be as follows:

-Expo Authority Presentation & Statement (20 mins)
-LAUSD OEHS Statement (5 mins)
-Parent Collaborative Statement (5 mins)
-UTLA Statement (5 mins)
-School Principal/Teacher Representative on this issue Statement (5 mins)
-Fix Expo Group Presentation & Statement (20 mins)
-Elected Officials Statement (20 mins)
-Open Public Forum with Question & Answer Period (40 mins)

The format and date of the meetings are locked.

Hard copy invitations will be mailed on Thursday, May 1 to the expected presenters, and the local elected representatives, all of whom are members of the Expo Authority Board of Directors and/or the MTA Board of Directors:

-Expo Chair & Council Member Jan Perry
-Expo Vice Chair & Council Member Herb Wesson
-Expo Board Member & Supervisor Yvonne Burke
-Expo Board Member & Council Member Bernard Parks
-MTA Incoming Chair & Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa
-Expo Authority CEO Rick Thorpe
-LAUSD School Board Member Marguerite LaMotte
-Ed Morelan for LAUSD OEHS
-Mary Johnson of the Parent Collaborative
-Elaine LeBoeuf of the UTLA

Invitations will be sent to the state and federal legislators as well. Since their work place is far outside the area, Sacramento and Washington D.C. respectively, for them and only for them, written correspondence will be accepted if they are not personally able to attend:

-Assembly Speaker-Elect Karen Bass
-Assembly Member Mike Davis
-State Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas
-Congresswoman Diane Watson
-Senator Diane Feinstein
-Senator Barbara Boxer

We look forward to your attendance.

Sincerely,
Damien Goodmon
damienwg@gmail.com

Science & Technology Awareness Day

2008-05-01T11:46:00.000-07:00

Please help us alert youth, parents and educators in your area to attend the fifth annual Science and Technology Awareness Day on May 10, 2008. It will take place from noon to 4 p.m., at the Expo Community Center, 3990 S. Menlo Avenue in Los Angeles. “Energy for the Future” will be the theme.

Local area students, elementary to high school, are urged to take part in engineering and scientific experiments lead by professionals. Other displays, exhibits and activities will be offered as well as giveaways for participating students.

The City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works staff and Los Angeles African American Engineers and Professional Employees Association (AAEPEA) sponsors Awareness Day each year to generate interest in science, technology, and engineering in young people who are generally underrepresented in these fields of study. By conducting fun, hands-on activities like these, AAEPEA believes it can motivate youth to study math and science and pursue Engineering-related majors in college.

For more information, contact Sunday Owairu at (323) 342-6044 or (323) 342-6200.

Los Angeles Public Libraries

2008-04-18T12:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Neighbors,

I am part of a grassroots collective of passionate library users who are deeply disturbed by the proposed $1-per-book inter-branch loan fee that will be charged beginning July 1st.

We have launched a website at www.saveLAPL.org to raise awareness of this issue and the fact that there is a virtual moratorium on the Library buying new books and periodicals.

We believe that if the people who use the Library make their feelings known to the Mayor, Library Commissioners and City Librarian that an alternate solution will be found, one which will generate more money for the Library without putting the burden for fund-raising on the people who can least afford it.

Please visit www.saveLAPL.org and let the Mayor know what you think, view the documents, read the testimonials and tell your friends to help Save LAPL.

Best Regards,
Kim Cooper
www.saveLAPL.org

Student Workers Needed

2008-04-18T12:21:00.000-07:00

$$$ Superior Court of Los Angeles $$$

If you know of any students who are willing to work this summer, please pass on this information.

LA County Courts are currently accepting applications for the Student worker position. If you know someone with teenagers (16 & up) enrolled in school and have at least a "C" average, it's pretty much a guaranteed job at $9.16 per hour. Please pass this on to anyone who might fall into this category ... tell them to apply online www.lasuperiorcourt.org.

This is available to all Los Angeles county court (includes: Van Nuys, Lancaster, Sylmar, Pasadena, Pomona, etc) and 2nd year college students salary starts at $11.15 per hour.

Congrats Foshay Robotics Team!

2008-04-12T15:20:00.000-07:00

Message from Regina Boutte:

I am very happy to report that the LAUSD District 7 Foshay’s Robotic Team 597 represented YOU very well in Hawai’i for the FIRST Robotic Regional. Not only were we the most attractive and courteous team competing, we walked away with the 2nd highest overall award.

The Chairman’s Award was presented to Team 359 from Hawaii, established in 2000. We were awarded the 2008 Engineering Inspiration Award, which celebrates outstanding success in advancing respect and appreciation for engineering and engineers within a team’s school and community. We won the 2008 Website Award, which recognizes excellence in student-designed, built, and managed FIRST team websites…please visit us at www.team597.net.

We were recognized during the awards ceremony as one of the top teams (actually the runner-up) for the Underwriters Laboratories Industrial (ULI) Safety Award that celebrates the team that progress beyond safety fundamentals by using innovative ways to eliminate or protect against hazards. Each member of the team was presented an ULI Safety Pin. In addition to practicing safety in the pit area and on the field, team members campaigned for breast cancer awareness and shared pink ribbons, website information, data and clothing with other teams, the judges and spectators supplied by Privacy Wear (www.privacywear.com), one of the team’s sponsors.

Let’s not forget our robot, Neptune. The team accumulated enough points and qualified for the Finals!!! A few weeks ago, while competing in San Diego for the Robotics Regional, March 6th -8th, the team also won the 2008 Website Award and special recognition from the Underwriters Laboratories.

The Team will compete in the FIRST Robotic Championship in Atlanta April 16th - 19th.

Sincerely,

Regina M. Boutte
Assistant Principal
Foshay Learning Center

Caregiver Conference - In Spanish

2008-04-11T13:57:00.000-07:00

The City of Los Angeles Department of Aging and the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation are working together to host a Free Caregiver Conference at Our Lady of Angels Cathedral in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday, April 26, 2008. The Spanish language event targets caregivers, people who provide care for their older adult relative, spouse, or grandparent who has custody of a minor child and will link them to supportive services offered through the City's network of Multipurpose Senior Centers.

This will encourage Spanish Speaking caregivers within the City of Los Angeles to access supportive services that will help their loved ones age independently with dignity and respect, in the comfort of their own homes. This is important because many family caregivers that care for their parents (padres) are caregivers, but they do not identify themselves as caregivers since they feel it is a cultural duty to take care of their parents. The benefit to these families is that they can access services for the caregiver as well as programs to keep their loved ones (padres) active, independent, and pursuing a healthy lifestyle.

Please take a moment to review the flyer for the Aprendamos Juntos (Learning Together) Caregiver Conference on Saturday, April 26, 2008; RSVP by calling (323) 313-1683.

Click Here for the Flyer

NOTE: For additional information on the conference, please dial (323)313-1683. If your Neighborhood Council is interested in partnering with the City of Los Angeles Department of Aging to host a Caregiver Conference or accessing supportive services such as Caregiver Trainings or Caregiver Support Groups, please contact:

Charles Shivers
Information & Assistance Director
Department of Aging
3580 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 300
Los Angeles, CA 90010
Tel: (213) 252-4082
Fax: (213) 252-4020

Now You Can Fight SPAM!!!

2008-04-10T16:55:00.000-07:00

SPAM!--It's official... now, we really can fight back.

We hope you have not, but if you have suffered financial loss (money) in a so-called "investment" behind an eMail scam, contact the California Victims of Corporate Fraud Compensation Fund (VCFCF). The California Secretary of State has created this entity to provide restitution to those individuals and business entities that have been victims of a corporate fraud but have been unable to collect on their judgment or criminal restitution order. (Corporations Code section 1502.5; California Code of Regulations, Title 2, sections 22500-22519.): Victims of Corporate Fraud Compensation Fund: call (916) 651-9070, or email at vcfcf@sos.ca.gov.

The California Attorney General, or local law enforcement has the authority to investigate and intervene, in certain situations, on behalf of members of the public involved in disputes with corporations and other business entities or individuals that may be involved in unlawful conduct or that may be making false representations to the public. You may wish to file a complaint with the Attorney General's office in writing to the Public Inquiry Unit at P.O. Box 944255, Sacramento, CA 94244-2550 or call (800) 952-5225 (toll free in California), (916) 322-3360, or through their web site:
http://ag.ca.gov/consumers/general.php.

Regarding the unauthorized dissemination of electronic mail, there is a federal statute known as the CAN-SPAM Act (Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act of 2003) that federal and state law enforcement officials enforce jointly, and there is a California version of the Act located in Business and Professions Code sections 17529 through 17529.9. You also may want to access the "Consumers SPAM" link on the Attorney General's website: http://ag.ca.gov/consumers/general/spam10.php.

Contact the FTC by mail at Consumer Response Center, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20580. You also may wish to visit the FTC's website at: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/menus/consumer/tech/spam.shtm.

Also, a spam complaint may be filed with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which works to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace. To file a complaint or to get free information on this and other consumer issues, you can visit their website at www.ftc.gov, or call toll-free 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357), send spam to the FTC: spam@uce.gov.

Additionally, if you have fallen victim to an internet scam, or know others who have fallen victim to an internet scam, you may wish to file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center, which is sponsored by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Justice Assistance and the National White Collar Crime Center, at: http://www.ic3.gov/complaint.

Calling All High School Artists

2008-04-10T11:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends:

It is my pleasure to formally announce the annual 31st Congressional District Student Art Competition. Our theme this year will be "Los Angeles: A Cultural Crossroads - the Everyday and the Extraordinary." The Congressional Art Competition is an opportunity for the community to recognize our gifted young artists. If you are a high school student with interests and talents in the arts, or know someone who is, you should be aware of this exciting opportunity.

Since 1982, hundreds of thousands of high school students have participated nationwide in the Annual Congressional Art Competition. The winner of the local art competition will have their artwork exhibited in the United States Capitol for one year and receive airfare and accommodations for two to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, June 25 in Washington, D.C. More great prizes for second and third place winners, as well as those receiving honorable mention will be awarded.

Please note that participants must be high school students and reside in the 31st Congressional District. To verify that a student lives in my district, please visit the House of Representatives Web site and enter their zip code in the "Find Your Representatives" field
click here to look up the +4 zip code).

Visit my Congressional Art Competition Web page to see the winners from the previous three years and to learn more about the artwork guidelines and student requirements. All entries must be delivered to my Los Angeles district office by the deadline: Friday, May 2, 2008 at 5 p.m., with this release form completed and attached.

Please contact Nicolas Rodriquez at my district office at (213) 483-1425 if you have any questions.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

XAVIER BECERRA
Member of Congress

L.A. Neighborhood Initiative: SAVE THE DATE!

2008-04-10T11:10:00.000-07:00

Once again we’re bringing the community together for the
LOS ANGELES NEIGHBORHOOD INITIATIVE SIXTH ANNUAL COMMUNITY FORUM!

Thursday • May 15, 2008 • 8 am - 2:30 pm
USC Davidson Conference Center
3415 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90089
www.lani.org

Everyone is invited to this FREE event!
Drawing on Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative's unparalleled track record of revitalizing diverse areas, this exciting event gathers and trains neighborhood leaders and community stakeholders, providing a critical opportunity for dialogue and information sharing.

POTENTIAL WORKSHOP TOPICS:
• How to Bring a Grocery Store to Your Community
• California Friendly Landscape and Irrigation
• Bike Paths in Los Angeles
• CALots and Neighborhood Mapping
• Historic Preservation: Revitalizing Broadway
• Cleaning Up or Closing Down Nuisance Businesses

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
• LANI Community Steering Committees • Neighborhood Councils • CAC’s, PAC’s & Planning Committees • Business Improvement Districts • Merchant Associations • Community Based Organizations • Nonprofits • Public Officials • City & County Agencies • Community Members • Consultants • Students • Anyone interested in Neighborhood Revitalization

Register now at www.lani.org or call 213 627-1822 ext. 20

NC Input Requested

2008-04-10T11:03:00.000-07:00

Commission Seeks Neighborhood Council Input
on Preservation Ordinance

The Office of Historic Resources and the Cultural Heritage Commission (CHC) invite Certified Neighborhood Councils to participate in two upcoming public hearings - on Thursday, March 20 (after 11:30 a.m.) and on Thursday, April 17 (after 10:00 a.m.) to provide input on a significant overhaul of the City's historic preservation ordinance.

The staff of the Office of Historic Resources (OHR) is proposing important changes aimed at strengthening demolition review procedures, clarifying criteria for historic designation, and enhancing notification of private property owners. The City of Los Angeles' Cultural Heritage Ordinance, originally approved by the City Council in 1962, created the procedures for the designation and protection of significant Los Angeles buildings and sites as Historic-Cultural Monuments. While the Ordinance has undergone several minor, procedural modifications, it has never been comprehensively updated to give our City a state-of-the-art historic preservation program.

The Cultural Heritage Commission held an initial public workshop on these ordinance amendments in February, and will be holding these two additional hearings on the proposed changes in the coming weeks, at City Hall, 200 N. Spring St., Rm. 1010 (10th Floor). We encourage you to participate, but if you cannot attend, we welcome your written comments and suggestions on these proposals as the OHR and Commission finalize a draft ordinance for submission to the City Council later this year.

The OHR has now made available the text of the proposed ordinance changes. To review the draft ordinance and a summary of the recommendations under review by the Commission, click on the attachment at the bottom of the OHR's web site article on the hearing, at: www.preservation.lacity.org/node/94

You may also review the existing ordinance by clicking on the attachment "Cultural Heritage Ordinance" at: www.preservation.lacity.org/commission

2008 Arbor Day L.A.

2008-04-10T10:36:00.000-07:00

It's spring time! Put on those gardening gloves and pick up that shovel. Don that party hat and join the City of Los Angeles at the 2008 Arbor Day LA -- a fun-filled and educational activity with information booths, treats, surprise guests, entertainment, tree adoptions and tree planting workshops for all Angelenos. Learn about how you can pitch in to grow Los Angeles' urban forest.

Saturday, May 17, 2008
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Griffith Park, Park Center Area
4730 Crystal Springs Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027

Admission is FREE! Feel free to forward this information to all interested parties.

For more information, email milliontree@lacity.org, call (213) 473-9950, or
visit www.milliontreesla.org or www.arbordayla.blogspot.com.

This event is presented by Million Trees LA, the Department of Public Works, and the Department of Recreation and Parks.

Southern California Youth Music Competition

2008-04-10T10:33:00.000-07:00

WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE:

WHAT: Southern California Youth Music Competition
WHEN: April 19, 2008
WHERE: Church of Congregational Fellowship (UCC)
2085 South Hobart Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90018
WHO: Bradley Baker, Music Director
DEADLINE: April 12, 2008

The competition is open to high school vocalists and instrumentalists who live in Southern California.

The goal of this music competition is to have a positive impact on the youth who spend time learning their musical craft.

For more information: Fax Mr. Bradley Baker at 323.731.0851

Or by email (preferred): bradleybaker@earthlink.net

Entrants are asked to prepare two contrasting selections based on the following:

Baroque
Romantic
Impressionist
Gospel
Contemporary
Broadway Show
Jazz
Pop
Original Composition

There are two categories - vocal and instrumental.

Each category pays as follows:
First Prize is $500
Second Prize is $250
Third Prize is $125
Honorable Mention
Special Mention

If you know someone who is interested, talented or just wants the experience, please have them Enter today!

Community Workshop: City of Los Angeles Clean Money Programs

2008-04-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

April 19, 2008, 10 a.m. to Noon
Little Tokyo Library
203 S Los Angeles St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

In November 2007, the Los Angeles City Council passed a resolution instructing the City’s Chief Legislative Analyst (CLA) to generate a Clean Money proposal for the City of Los Angeles. The adopted resolution additionally instructed the CLA to consult with the California Clean Money Campaign, the City Ethics Commission, City Clerk, City Administrative Office and Mayor Antonio Villara igoisa, in crafting this proposal.

The Department of Neighborhood Empowerment (DONE) has ben requested to assist in soliciting feedback, as requested by the LA City Council Rules and and Elections Committee on proposals for voluntary full public funding of city elections.

In order to raise public awareness & understanding of Clean Money Programs and give you an opportunity to weigh in with your thoughts and ideas, the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council is hosting an informational workshop on the topic.

For more information contact Tobi Dragert (tdragert@gmail.com) or Ginny Case (ginny@ginnycase.com or 213.248.0698)

Empowering Black Women to be Tomorrow's Health Advocats

2008-04-10T10:19:00.000-07:00

Advocate Training Program 2008: Empowering Black Women to be Tomorrow's Health Activists

CABWHP will soon begin training a new group of Los Angeles health advocates through our innovative Advocate Training Program (ATP). The 2008 ATP will have a special cohort for young women ages 18-24. However, applications from sisters of all ages are welcome. The ATP is designed to train women from the grassroots community to become effective health policy activists and advocates. Since 2002, the Advocate Training Program has produced sixty-five women's health advocates trained in Black women's health issues, media advocacy, community organizing, strategy development and policy advocacy. In 2006, we trained our inaugural Northern California class of advocates in the East Bay.

The 2008 ATP will empower a new set of health advocates to enrich our advocacy, activism and dialogue with policy makers. Applications are available now! Space is limited so submit your application as early as possible!

Apply Now! Space is Limited!

Young women who complete our program will each receive a $250 college scholarship for the 2008-2009 academic year!

For more information, contact us at?310 412-1828 x15 or adrienne@cabwhp.org.

Student Science and Technology Day

2008-04-10T10:14:00.000-07:00

STUDENTS TO EXPLORE ENGINEERING, SCIENCE WITH PROS AT FIFTH SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AWARENESS DAY

City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works staff are playing a major part in planning the fifth annual Science and Technology Awareness Day on May 10, where “Energy for the Future” will be the theme. The event will take place from noon to 4 p.m., at the Expo Community Center, 3990 S. Menlo Avenue in Los Angeles, said City of Los Angeles Board of Public Works President Cynthia Ruiz.

More than 200 South Los Angeles area students, elementary to high school, are expected to participate in engineering and scientific activities lead by Engineering professionals. The Los Angeles African American Engineers and Professional Employees Association (AAEPEA) is the sponsor.

“Displays, exhibits and experiments as well as giveaways for participating students will be offered,” said Bureau of Sanitation Chief Industrial Waste Inspector and AAEPEA President Sunny Owairu. “AAEPEA sponsors Awareness Day each year to generate interest in science, technology, and engineering in young people who are generally underrepresented in these fields of study,” Owairu said. “By conducting fun, hands-on activities like these, AAEPEA believes it can motivate youth to study math and science and pursue Engineering-related majors in college.”

Among organizations contributing to the event with the Bureaus of
Sanitation and Engineering are:

The Gas Company
Southern California Edison Company
College Prep Kids
Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)
AIAA (Boeing Corporation)
National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
Metropolitan Water District
Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD)
Los Angeles Trade Technical College
MWH
Parsons
American Society of Civil Engineers
GC Tech
AAEPEA LA County Public Works
Society of Women Engineers
British Petroleum
MAC Tech
Shell Oil Company
UCLA NANO Outreach
Southern California American Chemical Society
California Earthquake Center

For more information, contact Owairu at (323) 342-6044 or (323)
342-6200. The Public Works Department is the third largest municipal
agency in the City. DPW has more than 5,700 employees and an annual
budget of more than $1 billion. DPW is responsible for construction,
renovation and operation of public facilities and infrastructure,
including: municipal buildings and treatment facilities; streets, street
lights, and urban forest; bridges and sidewalks; sewers and storm
drains; integrated solid waste management and recycling; graffiti
removal and beautification grants.

L.A. County Second Supervisorial District Arts Internships

2008-04-03T12:22:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles County, through its Arts Commission, has given grants totaling $496,000 to 87 performing, literary, media and municipal arts organizations throughout Los Angeles County to support paid internships for college undergraduates in summer 2008.

Descriptions of and contacts for the 124 internship positions are posted on the Arts Commission’s web site. Go to www.lacountyarts.org, click on Internships, then 2008 Internship Positions. Or click HERE.

Interested undergraduates should apply directly to the organization offering the internship, not the Arts Commission. College undergraduates either resident in or attending school in Los Angeles County are eligible for the internships.

Interns are paid $350 per week for ten weeks and take part in educational and arts networking activities. Through the program, interns gain a deeper understanding of the work involved in nonprofit arts administration and the role of the arts in a community, and develop business skills that can be put to use in their future careers. Internship host organizations help mold and shape potential new workers in the arts field who may go on to arts leadership positions on staffs, boards or as volunteers.

Organizations in the County’s Second Supervisorial District offering arts internships include:
* Actors' Gang
* Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts & Culture
* City of Culver City
* Contra-tiempo, Inc.
* L.A. Commons
* Odyssey Theatre Foundation
* Outfest
* P.S. ARTS
* PEN Center USA
* The Unusual Suspects Theatre Company
* Yiddishkayt Los Angeles

Examples of County internship experiences include:

- A literary programs intern to work at PEN Center USA to support program development and administration, including community-based creative writing programs, curriculum development, program research, and program evaluation. The intern will also implement writing programs and work with literary professionals to enhance the literary community of Los Angeles.

- An assistant to the publicity director/marketing director to work at Odyssey Theatre Ensemble to assist in strategizing and implementing promotion campaigns for the two productions opening during the internship. Responsibilities will include reviewing the ensemble’s archive/publicity files and assisting in fundraising and publicity efforts for its 40th Anniversary.

- A festival director assistant to work at the Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts & Culture to support the overall operations of the festival, including production logistics, marketing, team coordination, and program wrap-up. The intern will work closely with the Festival Co-Directors and Festival Builder Committee in production while actively collaborating with community organizations, government officials, vendors, businesses, artists, and volunteers.

New Universally Accessible Park

2008-04-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa,
Councilmember Bernard C. Parks
&
The Department of Recreation and Parks

Invite you to join the dedication of
South Los Angeles' First
Universally Accessible Playground (UAP)
[Disabled Access Playground]

Grand Opening and Dedication
at
Martin Luther King Therapeutic Center

April 19, 2008 at 12:30 p.m.
3916 S. Western
Los Angeles, CA 90062

_________________________

Background on Universal Access Playgrounds (UAP)

The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks has three universally accessible playgrounds where children of all abilities can play side-by-side. The City's goal is to have six large regional playgrounds as well as 15 smaller ones throughout the city.

Universally Accessible Playground Locations:
Shane's Inspiration
Griffith Park
4800 Crystal Springs Dr.
Los Angeles, CA
90027

Aidan's Place
Westwood Park
1350 S. Sepulveda
Los Angeles, CA
90024

Lincoln Park
3600 N. Mission Rd.
Los Angeles, CA
90031

History

The first west coast playground began with one mother. In March of 1997 Catherine Curry-Williams gave birth to a son, Shane, who died two weeks later of spinal muscular atrophy (a disorder that would have left him severely disabled had he survived). Catherine's sister-in-law sent her an article from an East Coast paper about another family who also lost a child. They had turned their grief into action by creating a playground.

Inspired by the story, Catherine and her husband Scott did their research and learned that there were no wheelchair-accessible playgrounds on the west coast. They decided to take action. Catherine joined with a friend, Tiffany Harris, and together they created a non-profit organization called SHANE'S INSPIRATION.

Their mission: To create a truly unique recreational environment in Los Angeles that provides an opportunity for children with disabilities to play at their highest level, enhancing their emotional, physical and social development, as well as teaching compassion and acceptance.

Public/Private Partnership. Catherine and Tiffany raised $1 million for their playground. Former Councilman Mike Feuer learned of their desire to build the playground in Griffith Park. He presented the motion to the City Council, which voted unanimously to allocate two acres of prime land in Griffith Park to the project.

According to Catherine, "Department staff worked with Shane's Inspiration (the organization) on a daily basis, in a seamless public/private partnership - cutting through obstacles and red tape. In many ways it was the best of both worlds. Our private funding made it possible for us to choose our contractors. The partnership with Recreation and Parks and former Councilman Feuer removed all bureaucratic obstacles. If we had to do this on our own, we would be years away from completion." Shane's Inspiration opened on September 21, 2000.

The Shane's Inspiration founders established Playground Resource Center West to assist other community groups with the development of these special playgrounds. They were contacted by the Gaffney family whose son, Aidan James, had been born with a progressive disease that left him ventilator dependent and wheelchair bound. Once again in partnership with the Department of Recreation and Parks, a second west coast playground, AIDAN'S PLACE, was established at the Department's Westwood Park. Aidan died on June 26, 2001 and didn't see the opening of the playground, but his spirit was present at the opening on December 5, 2001 which would have been his sixth
birthday.

The Future. With over 160,000 special education students in Los Angeles County, there is a great demand for more fully-integrated play facilities. The department has a goal of developing six regional playgrounds, and has identified Hansen Dam and Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park as the next sites.

In addition, the Department hopes to identify 15 parks citywide which could accommodate the enlargement of an existing play pit or installation of a mid-sized playground (75'x90'). California Assembly Bill 716 approved in September of 2002 allocates $9 million in Proposition 40 funds for universally accessible playgrounds, which will help this vision become a reality.

Improve L.A. Area Airports

2008-03-28T16:45:00.000-07:00

The Mayor and Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) invite you to participate in a survey to evaluate various aspects of the operations of LAWA, which include Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Ontario International Airport, Van Nuys Airport and Palmdale Regional Airport.

The City of Los Angeles has retained KH Consulting Group (KH) to conduct this study. KH will treat your individual responses confidentially. The survey will take 5 to10 minutes to complete. The survey deadline is April 6, 2008.

To complete the survey in English, use this link.

Para completar la encuesta en español, haga clic aqui.

Public Works Open Houses

2008-03-27T15:30:00.000-07:00

BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS ANNOUNCES "SIX" CITYWIDE BUREAU OF SANITATION OPEN HOUSES TO PROMOTE RECYCLING AND CITY SERVICES

City Invites Children, Families and Residents of All Ages to Join the Fun and Excitement with Trash Truck Demonstrations, Yard Tours, Educational Games and Prizes

The City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works Bureau of Sanitation is hosting its 6th annual open house events offered free to the public. Each of the city's six sanitation yards, in Sun Valley, Northridge, Lincoln Heights/Cypress Park, South Los Angeles, San Pedro and West Los Angeles, will promote recycling fun while providing hands-on educational experiences and informational material on city programs.

The open houses are designed to display the city's recycling program, increase recycling awareness and improve access to city services delivered by the Bureau of Sanitation. Last year, more than 3,200 residents visited the open houses and more than 300 city employees volunteered their time to conduct the weekend events for the public.

Visitors will be treated to trash truck and equipment demonstrations in addition to yard tours and educational booths. Visitors of all ages will have an opportunity to meet the city's recycling mascots. The blue characters "Mr. Recycle" and "Robo Blue" will promote the cause of recycling to the next generation of residents by engaging the imagination of children. As a bonus, Million Trees L.A. will provide tree adoption opportunities and the Bureau of Sanitation will distribute free mulch from its green waste program.

The open house dates, times and locations are:

Saturday, MAY 3, 2008 - 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
EAST VALLEY District Yard, 11050 Pendleton Street, Sun Valley, CA 91352

Saturday, MAY 17, 2008 - 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
WEST VALLEY District Yard, 8840 Vanalden Avenue, Northridge, CA 91324

Saturday, MAY 31, 2008 - 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
NORTH CENTRAL District Yard, 452 N. San Fernando Road, Los Angeles, CA 90031

Saturday, JUNE 7, 2008 - 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
SOUTH LOS ANGELES District Yard, 786 S. Mission Road, Los Angeles, CA 90023

Saturday, JUNE 21, 2008 - 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
HARBOR District Yard, 1400 N. Gaffey Street, San Pedro, CA 90731

Saturday, JUNE 28, 2008 - 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
WEST LOS ANGELES District Yard, 2027 Stoner Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90025

For more information on 2008 Bureau of Sanitation Open Houses, please call (800) 773-2489 or visit www.lacity.org/SAN/. To learn more about the city moving toward "Zero Waste" and the future of solid waste management, please visit www.zerowaste.lacity.org.

About Board of Public Works
The five-commissioner Board of Public Works manages the Department of Public Works, the City's third largest municipal division focused on the essential needs of residents for a better quality of life and environmental protection. With a $559 million operating budget, the department awards more than $500 million in public service contracts annually that provide for the construction, renovation, and operation of public programs and services including: municipal buildings and treatment facilities; streets, street lights, and urban forest; bridges and sidewalks; sewers and storm drains; integrated solid waste management and recycling; graffiti removal and beautification grants. The Board is committed to the delivery of quality customer service, to help neighborhoods thrive and benefit from healthier living and working environments. For more information, visit www.lacity.org/bpw.

Intern with Congressman Becerra

2008-03-27T15:23:00.000-07:00

Friends and Neighbors,

I wanted to make you aware of the exciting summer internship opportunities available for college students in my offices in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. Although unpaid, interns walk away from what I hope is a rewarding and fun experience with a wealth of knowledge about how our nation's political system works.

Rep. Becerra (center) with 2007 summer interns
Amy (left) and Salvador (right).
Summer internship positions at my offices require a full-time commitment, and are highly competitive. Strong organizational skills and the ability to work as part of a team and under pressure are essential.

You can learn more about the internship program by visiting the Internship Page on my Web site. You can also apply now by filling out this application form and returning it, along with the required documents, to the appropriate office. The deadline to apply for internships in the Los Angeles office has been extended to Friday, April 4. Applications for internships in the Washington, D.C., office are accepted on a rolling basis.

Please feel free to contact my District Office at 213.483.1425, or Capitol Office at 202.225.6235 if you have any questions about the internship program, or application process. I look forward to working with you this summer!

Sincerely,

XAVIER BECERRA
Member of Congress

Summer Intership Opportunity

2008-03-10T15:46:00.000-07:00

Institute for Responsible Citizenship - Call for Applications

The Institute for Responsible Citizenship is currently accepting applications for its summer programs in Washington, DC and New York City. The program in Washington focuses on public service, with most participants interested in careers in law, politics, and business. The New York City program focuses on career achievement and citizenship in the financial services industry.

More information about both programs, along with the application, can be found at www.i4rc.org.

Inquiries should be directed to info@i4rc.org or (202) 659-2831.

Celebrate Cesar Chavez Day!

2008-03-10T15:26:00.000-07:00

CELEBRATE CESAR CHAVEZ DAY 2008!

10th Annual Chavez Walk
Saturday, March 29th, 2008
at Historic Olvera Street, 10am

REGISTER HERE TODAY

Download Flyers, Get Information and Sponsor Forms, etc.

Please share this info with friends and family and encourage them to attend this historic event!

Join us at one of our upcoming MEETINGS to learn more about the free program for Educators and Community workers to implement in your school and/or organization.

Season of Service: Spring into Action Commemorating the state holiday in honor of two great leaders: Cesar E. Chavez & Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

FREE Resources and Materials: Resources to teach about the life, work, and principles of Cesar E. Chavez and Martin Luther King, Jr.

* Tools to create a standards-based service-learning project
* FREE Cesar Chavez Walk DVD
* FREE bus for Cesar Chavez Walk, March 29th @ Olvera Street (1st
come, 1st served, with participation in the whole project)

Check out our NEW ONLINE RESOURCES on Cesar Chavez (w/ Videos, events, photos, etc.).

YOU CAN ALSO:
-Join thousands of students and community members by forming a walk
team
- Recruit: students, teachers, administration, staff, and parents
- Coordinate turnout & logistics for your schools walk team
- Buses available, contact UFW Foundation soon for more information

Help Make Cesar Chavez Day a National Holiday!Get petitions & information HERE.

Service Learning Information, Projects, and Toolkits available from The Chavez Foundation at: (213) 362-0260 and www.cesarchavez.org

For more information go to the UFW website.

Sponsored by: Western Union, Safeway Vons, Southern California Edison, and AARP Los Angeles City Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa and Councilmember Jose Huizar, 14th District; Media Sponsors: KPFK

Super Delegates?

2008-03-10T12:50:00.000-07:00

VOTER EDUCATION WORKSHOP
"The Road To The White House"
Presented by
48th Assembly District Caucus
in partnership with
Ron Brown Democratic Club
New Frontier Democratic Club

Saturday March 15, 2008
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Mt. Tabor Baptist Church
6614 S. Western Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90047

Featured Speaker: Assemblyman Mike Davis, 48th AD
Register to Vote and Learn about the Presidential Election Process. Heard about the Super Delegates? Find out who they are and what they do from Super Delegates who live in the community.

Interested in becoming a Convention Delegate? - Learn about the process from experienced convention delegates.

Refreshments will be served

FOR INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS CONTACT:
Betty Johnson 323 779-6347
Johnnie Roberts 323 943-8745

California Voter Education Project

2008-03-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

Join the 2M+ California Voter Education Project, BeThaChange.com to become part of a growing movement of young people who are willing to change the future of their country and their communities through civic engagement and civic participation.

The 2M+ campaign will be a vehicle for youth to become engaged in their future by participating in a website campaign for youth involvement.

- Spoken Word contest, no more than 2-3 minutes. Cash award $1000.00

- Essay Contest: Essay Theme “My California Dream for Civic Engagement” in 500 words or less. Cash award $500.00

- Freeman Leadership Awards (3): Nominations can come from Community Based Organizations, Faith Based-Institutions , Youth Groups, Youth Agencies and others who know youth who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and civic participation. Cash awards $1000.00

Criteria:
1. Must be 18 – 27 years of age
2.Those participating in the contest and nominating for the leadership awards must register on line to www.bethachange.com
3. All registrations must be done on line to www.bethachange.com
4. Register now to participate at the “Leadership Summit” scheduled for Saturday, March 22, 2008 at the USC Davidson Conference Center. Register early, seating will be limited www.bethachange.com.
5. Must register on line to www.bethachange.com
6. Deadline for submission is March 15, 2008

All entries become the property of the 2M+ California Voter Education Project and results and determination of the winners will be final.

For further information call 323-605-5909.

South LA Community Plan

2008-03-04T10:38:00.000-08:00

Dear South LA Community member and all Interested parties:

The Planning Department would like to invite you to the a small group meeting to be conducted at a located near you. If you where not able to attend any previous small group meetings for the South and Southeast LA Community Plan, you can join us at any one of the three meeting locations listed below. For your convenience we are holding
meetings throughout the South region in order to facilitate access to meeting locations. Please forward and/or post flyers to anyone who may be interested.

Please this information with your fellow community members!

Saturday, March 1, 2008 at 10am at the Constituent Service Center
8475 S. Vermont Ave., LA (joint meeting South & Southeast LA)

Wednesday, March 5th, 2008 at 6PM at the Vermont Square Public Library
1201 W. 48th Street, LA - Just 2 blocks west of Vermont, and 4 blocks south of Vernon (South LA Community Plan Program ONLY)

Thursday, March 20, 2008 at 6PM at the Mark Twain Public Library
9621 S. Figueroa St., LA - at the corner of Figueroa & 97th St (Joint meeting South & Southeast LA)

As a stakeholder in South LA your input and involvement is a very important component of the Community Plan Program process.

RSVP via phone or email is not required, but highly recommended to ensure sufficient material and handouts. Please call or email me if you have any questions regarding the Planning process. Again, feel free to share this info with anyone who may be interested in getting involved!

We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting!

Sincerely,

Griselda Gonzalez (213-978-1210)
South LA Community Plan

Marie Cobian (213-978-1201)
Southeast LA Community Plan Program

Griselda Gonzalez
Department of City Planning
Community Planning Bureau
200 N. Spring St. Rm 667
Los Angeles, CA 90012-2601
213-978-1210 ph.
213-978-1477 fx

Griselda.Gonzalez@lacity.org

USC Master Plan Meeting

2008-02-25T12:16:00.000-08:00

The University of Southern California
Invites you to a
Town Hall Meeting
For a presentation and discussion on the
Proposed USC Master Plan
Development of the University Park Campus and
the prosperity of its surrounding community
through the year 2030

Tuesday, March 4, 2008
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Radisson Hotel Los Angeles
3540 South Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90007
(Near Figueroa St. and Exposition Blvd.)
Parking provided on site

Saturday, March 15, 2008
9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Masjid Omar ibn Al-Khattab
1025 West Exposition Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90007
(Near Vermont Ave. and Exposition Blvd.)
Parking provided on site

Both meetings will be an open house format with stations on the specific aspects of the proposed master plan Spanish simultaneous translation will be available.

For more information, please contact (213) 743-2072, or visit us at www.usc.edu/masterplan

La University of Southern California
Le invita a una
Junta Comunitaria
Para escuchar y discutir una presentación sobre el
Propuesto USC Master Plan
La visión para el plan maestro de la universidad y
la prosperidad de la comunidad cercana hasta el año 2030

martes, 4 de marzo, 2008
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Radisson Hotel Los Angeles
3540 South Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90007
Cerca Figueroa St. y Exposition Blvd.)
Estacionamiento incluido

sábado, 15 de marzo, 2008
9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Masjid Omar ibn Al-Khattab
1025 West Exposition Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90007
Cerca Vermont Ave. y Exposition Blvd.)
Estacionamiento incluido

Las dos juntas serán en formato de una presentación con estaciones sobre los aspectos específicos del propuesto plan maestro.

Traducción simultánea en español será disponible. Para más información, por favor contacta (213) 743-2072, o visítenos a www.usc.edu/masterplan

Stop Employment Discrimination

2008-02-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

HUMAN RIGHTS ADVOCACY and
LAW OFFICES OF NANA GYAMFI
present
FIGHTING EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION
an interactive LEGAL-EASE workshop

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2008
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
A.F.I.B.A. Center
5730 Crenshaw Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA

Please join us for our monthly LEGAL-EASE workshops designed to educate and inspire us to stand up and get busy. Our employment discrimination workshop is a must-attend event for anyone who works, has worked, or plans to work for anyone other than themselves. If it’s happening, do something about it! If it hasn’t hit you yet, stop waiting until it happens to you!

Refreshments will be served. $5.00 donation suggested, includes raffle. All proceeds to benefit the work of Human Rights Advocacy.

For more information, please contact Nana at 323-947-9772 or ngyam@aol.com.

Affordable Senior Housing

2008-02-20T13:32:00.000-08:00

Applications are now being accepted until February 29, 2008 for the Exposition Park West Seniors Project.

This is a 138-unit senior housing project located at 3901 S. Vermont Avenue, just west of the Coliseum and Exposition Park. Applications are currently available, but must be received by February 29, 2008.

*Applicant's Maximum Income Limits are $24,250 for one occupant and $27,700 for two occupants
*Seniors only pay 30% of monthly income for rent
*Apartments are 515 sf--equipped with new stoves, refrigerators, vertical blinds, heating/air conditioning and laundry rooms on each floor
*24-hour access control and closed circuit TV security system
*beautifully landscaped exterior patios and recreational areas

Please call (310) 854-4187 or (310) 854-4045 for more information.

Scam Stopper

2008-02-19T16:52:00.000-08:00

FREE Scam Stopper Seminar!

Join Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas, The Empowerment Congress, California Contractors State License Board, California Department of Consumer Affairs, and AARP on

Friday, February 29, 2008
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at
Expo Center, Exposition Park
3980 S. Menlo Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90037

How to empower yourself against scams!

Panel of Experts Invited:

- Home Improvement & Repairs (Contractors State License Board)

- Auto Repairs (California Department of Consumer Affairs)

- Insurance Fraud (California Department of Insurance)

- Financial Scams (California Department of Corporation)

- Telecommunication Scams (California Public Utilities Commission)

- Consumer Scams (Federal Trade Commission)

- Predatory Scams (AARP)

- Current Scams (Los Angeles Police Department)

Question & Answer Session

To confirm your attendance please call Mary Jones at 213-745-6656.

Zero Waste Meeting

2008-02-19T16:38:00.000-08:00

February is an important month in developing the City of Los Angeles’ Zero Waste Plan and we want to share the ideas we’ve heard thus far from all communities! On Wednesday, February 20th, 6:30 PM the Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation will host a workshop at the Expo Center, 3980 S. Menlo Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90037.

Over the past months we’ve asked stakeholders to lend their thoughts on the types of policies, programs and facilities that would lead to a greener Los Angeles. Now it’s time to focus and share the different scenarios we’ve heard from you on supporting a green and sustainable City.

Please join us for this important discussion on Wednesday evening and spread the word to the rest of your community!

If you are able to attend, please RSVP to rodarte@therobertgroup.com at your earliest convenience.

Christian J. Rodarte
The Robert Group
3108 Los Feliz Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90039
rodarte@therobertgroup.com

DWP Rate Hike

2008-02-12T16:48:00.000-08:00

You are invited to a Town Hall Meeting relative to
LADWP's Proposed Rate Increase.

This event is hosted by
Councilmembers Jan Perry and Bernard C. Parks

February 16, 2008
10:00am to 12:00pm
at
The Constituent Service Center
8475 S. Vermont Ave.
LA, CA 90044

ADVISORY: Illegal Dumping

2008-02-12T15:59:00.000-08:00

The Crocker-Mettler project and the Southeast Illegal Dumping Collaborative, which includes representatives of the Neighborhood Prosecutor Program, LAPD, City Council District 9 and the Bureau of Street Services, has been successful in addressing the illegal dumping issues in this area through prosecution, posting signage, and educating area business owners.

For questions, call Ailissa Leroy or Nina Lee of the City Attorney's Neighborhood Prosecutor Program, South Bureau, at (323)789-2701.

About Board of Public Works. The five-commissioner Board of Public Works manages the Department of Public Works; the City’s third largest municipal division focused on the essential needs for a better quality of life and environmental protection. With a $559 million operating budget, the department awards more than $500 million in public service contracts annually that provide for the construction, renovation, and operation of public programs and services including: municipal buildings and treatment facilities;
streets, street lights, and urban forest; bridges and sidewalks; sewers, catch basins and storm drains; recycling and integrated solid waste management. Through these programs and services, the Board is committed with the delivery of quality customer service, to engage and help neighborhoods thrive and benefit from healthier living and working environments. For more information, visit www.lacity.org/bpw.

Howard University Teacher Training Program

2008-02-12T10:12:00.000-08:00

Are you ready to influence the lives of hundreds of young people? Are you ready to make a difference in your community? Are you "Ready to Teach"?

Howard University has just been awarded a multi-million dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Education to recruit, train and certify people that are interested in becoming teachers.

We are looking for candidates who would like to teach English, Mathematics, Reading, Science or Special Education in Chicago (IL); Clayton County (GA); Houston (TX); Prince George's County (MD); or Washington (DC). The best part - no experience or background in education is required!

The Ready to Teach program (RtT) is ACTIVELY recruiting candidates for the 2008-2009 Cohort. Through this program you can earn a Master's of Arts in teaching Degree and get your teaching certification in one short year! RtT even provides scholarships and financial assistance to its candidates. The program is geared towards African-American males, but everyone is encouraged to apply. Hurry, the application deadline is March 3, 2008!!!

For admissions requirements and more information please visit the website at www.readytoteach.org, or feel free to contact me Trenile Tillman at ttillman@howard.edu.

Please share this information with your friends, family, colleagues and children.

Prepare and File Your Taxes for FREE!

2008-02-12T10:04:00.000-08:00

If you earned $54,000 a year or less last year, you're about to save time and money! That's because Free File lets you electronically prepare and file your federal income tax return for free.

Free File is offered by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in partnership with the Free File Alliance LLC, a group of leading private-sector tax preparation companies. The program launched five years ago and 19 million Americans have used it to date. A recent survey showed that 96 percent of those who used Free File found it "easy to use" and 98 percent said they would recommend it to others.

Free File is as easy and safe to use as 1, 2, 3:

1. Go to the IRS website at www.irs.gov and click on
"Free File" and press the "Start Now" button.

2. Then, choose a tax preparation company from the list. (You must select a company from the list rather than going directly to a company's website. Otherwise, you may be charged a fee). Some of the companies offer the software in Spanish.

3. If you want help choosing a company, use the interactive tool to help narrow your search. If you have questions, use the "Wizard" feature to guide you through the tax preparation process. It also checks your math and informs you of the newest tax deductions.

So skip those long paper forms and use Free File to prepare and file federal taxes. There's less chance for making errors and you'll get your refund in half the time. For example, when you use Free File and choose to receive your refund with Direct Deposit, you will receive your refund in as little as 10 days. After you send your return, you will receive a quick email acknowledgment within 48 hours from the tax preparation company to let you know that the IRS received your return. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, beginning mid-January 2008.

EXPO Line Track & Tree Removal

2008-01-29T11:35:00.000-08:00

Mid-Corridor/Segment B: Track & Tree Removal

EXPO Light Rail Project - Government/Community Relations
CONTACT INFORMATION
Expo Hotline: 213-922-EXPO (3976)
www.BuildExpo.org

Attention Residents and Business Owners

The Exposition Construction Authority, in preparation for construction of the Expo Line, will be preparing the right-of-way for utility relocation and improvements by removing the existing train tracks, shrubbery and various trees. The work is being managed and performed by the design-build contractor FCI/Fluor/Parsons (FFP, a Joint Venture) and its subcontractors.

When: Wednesday, December 26, 2007 through Friday, March 14, 2008 from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays)

Where: Construction crews will be working on the Exposition right-of-way between Vermont Avenue and La Brea Avenue

What: Construction crews will be preparing the right-of-way for utility relocation and improvements by removing the existing train tracks as well as various shrubbery and trees along the right-of-way. Existing train tracks will be removed and the steelwill be recycled. Where feasible, trees will be protected, stored and replanted during the project landscaping phase. Also, new trees will be planted at the end of construction.

Traffic Impacts: There will be no traffic impacts, such as street closures or detours, as a result of these construction activities. Trucks used to haul away debris will occasionally interrupt traffic as they enter and exit the right-of-way. Flagmen will be used to safely direct drivers in order to minimize disruption to traffic. Parking restrictions in all construction areas will be strictly enforced at all times.

Safety Advisory: Please do not enter the construction work zone and obey all posted construction signs.

South LA Community Plan

2008-01-29T08:54:00.000-08:00

In partnership with the Department of City Planning and the Community Redevelopment Agency, Councilmembers Jan Perry and Bernard Parks invite you to a:

Community Planning Workshop/Charrette
Saturday, February 23, 2008
9:00 AM- 2:00 PM
Exposition Park Intergenerational Community Center (EXPO)
3980 Menlo Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90037

Your participation at this workshop is crucial in bringing to the forefront the important issues that face your neighborhood! The purpose of the meeting is to review the existing and potential changes in land use zoning in the South and Southeast Los Angeles Planning Areas planning areas, as well as to look into other issues that are equally important for your neighborhood, such as parking, open space, and commercial centers. Maps and other visual tools will be available for you.

To RSVP please contact: Dilara Rodriguez at 213.473.7008 or dilara.rodriguez@lacity.org and/or Marie Rumsey at 213.473.2309 or marie.rumsey@lacity.org

En colaboracion con el Departamento de Urbanismo y la Agencia de Reurbanización de la Comunidad, Los Consejales Jan Perry y Bernard Parks los invita a:

Community Planning Workshop/Charette
Sabado, 23 de febrero, 2008
9:00 AM- 2:00 PM
Exposition Park Intergenerational Community Center (EXPO)
3980 Menlo Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90037

¡Su participación en este taller es crucial en traer a la vanguardia las cuestiones
importantes que afrontan su vecindad! El objetivo de la reunión es para examinar la existencia y cambios potenciales de la división por zonas de uso de tierra en el Los Ángeles del Sur y Plan de Áreas del Sudeste, así como examinar otras cuestiones que son igualmente importantes para su vecindad, como el aparcamiento, espacio amplios, y centros comerciales. Los mapas y otros instrumentos visuales estarán disponibles para usted.

Para responder por favor llame a: Dilara Rodriguez a 213.473.7008 o dilara.rodriguez@lacity.org y/o a Marie Rumsey a 213.473.2309 o marie.rumsey@lacity.org.

California Budget Briefing

2008-01-24T16:31:00.000-08:00

Senator Ridley-Thomas Convenes State Budget Briefing in Los Angeles with California State Controller John Chiang

Controller to lead discussion with local government officials and community representatives

California is facing a looming fiscal crisis that is directly impacting local governments and the communities they serve. The state’s $102 billion fiscal spending plan is $14.5 billion in the red and the Governor has called a State of Emergency.

On Saturday, January 26th, Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas is joining forces with the Empowerment Congress Leadership Council to engage local government representatives and community leaders from throughout the 26th Senate District to begin a comprehensive dialogue with top state officials regarding the forthcoming budget cuts and how they will impact area residents.

California State Controller John Chiang will provide an overview of the 2008 California State Budget. He will be joined by finance experts from the Office of Senate President Pro Tem Don Perata, who will help illustrate and explain the budget constraints and the extraordinary financial pressures that California is under. Numerous local government representatives have been invited to participated, including:

* Bill Fujioka; Chief Administrator, County of Los Angeles
* Leroy Baca; Los Angeles County Sheriff
* Jerry Fullwood; City Manager, Culver City
* Dr. Mark Drummond; Chancellor, Los Angeles Community College District

“It’s extremely important for local communities to be proactive and understand the state’s dire financial situation and to fully assess what’s around the corner,” said Senator Ridley-Thomas. “The Legislature is currently reviewing the Administration’s proposed spending plan which aims massive cuts in funding to education, social services, healthcare, transportation, local governments and environmental programs, including the closure of dozens of state parks and elimination of thousands of jobs. Therefore, Saturday’s Budget Briefing is designed to help us better comprehend the impacts to our communities and to the local economy.”

WHO: Senator Ridley-Thomas and the Empowerment Congress Leadership Council

WHAT: Communities in Crisis: Leadership Briefing on the 2008 State Budget

WHEN: Saturday, January 26, 2008 (9:00 am – Noon)

WHERE: California Science Center, The Muses Room - 700 State Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90037

Proposed MTA Changes

2008-01-24T16:03:00.000-08:00

The MTA (Metropolitan Transit Authority) is proposing changes to Metro bus service that, if adopted, would become effective in June 2008 or later. Metro will hold a total of seven public hearings throughout Los Angeles County, including one at Metro Headquarters, between Wednesday, February 6 and Thursday, February 14 to receive community input. The schedule of public hearings is available on the MTA website, www.metro.net .

The proposed changes are also posted on the Metro web site at www.metro.net . Service change brochures will also be available on Metro buses and rail cars as well as at Metro customer centers. Metro Brief ads in over 100 community newspapers will draw attention to the public hearings.

Metro has also published a Notice of Intent of public hearing for service changes in several newspapers including the Los Angeles Times, Chinese Daily News, Rafu Shimpo, Korea Times, LA Sentinel, La Opinion and San Gabriel Valley Tribune. In addition the Notice of Intent is scheduled to be published in this Thursday's January 17th editions of the Inglewood News, Inglewood Today, California Crusader News (Inglewood) and Random Lengths (Harbor Area Independent News).

Persons unable to attend the hearings may submit written testimony postmarked through February 14, 2008, the close of public record. All written testimony should be addressed to Metro Customer Relations, One Gateway Plaza, 99PL4, Los Angeles, Ca 90012-2932, Attn: June 2008 Service Changes.

In addition, comments can be e-mailed with the subject line “June 2008 Service Changes” to customerrelations@metro.net or faxed to (213) 922-6988.

These proposed service modifications will be approved in whole, or in part, at a date following the public hearings. Approved changes may also include other alternatives derived from public comment. Metro encourages members of the public to attend the upcoming public hearings and provide testimony on any service change proposal regardless of the service sector providing the service or the geographic area.

If you have any questions, please contact Helen Valenzuela at 213.922.7175 or at valenzuelah@metro.net.

L.A. Council Meeting on Transportation

2008-01-24T16:00:00.000-08:00

Transportation will be the single topic of a Los Angeles City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 29, at 10 a.m. The meeting will be held in Council Chambers on the 3rd Floor of City Hall, located at 200 N. Spring Street in Downtown Los Angeles.

Please join the Los Angeles City Council, key Los Angeles department managers, and transportation experts to discuss transportation challenges facing our city. The meeting will focus on Los Angeles Strategic Plan for transportation and the future of transportation funding.

If you have questions, please call 213/473-7013 (Councilmember Garcetti) or 213/473-7002 (Councilmember Greuel) for more information.

White House Internships

2008-01-24T15:32:00.000-08:00

The application deadline for the Summer 2008 White House Internship is February 26, 2008. If you know students and/or organizations that may be interested in this information please share this with them.

We are looking for a well-qualified, diverse group of applicants who would like to intern here for President Bush.

A White House Internship is an opportunity for current students and recent graduates to experience everyday life at the White House while working with high-level officials on a variety of tasks and projects.

Strong applicants should exhibit:
· Sound academic credentials
· A demonstrated interest in public service
· Solid written and verbal communication skills
· A history of community involvement
· Strong character and leadership skills

Beyond experiencing the day-to-day operations of the White House, interns participate in a speaker series, tours, community service projects, and various White House events.

For more information please visit our website at: www.whitehouse.gov/intern.

Applications should be submitted to intern_application@whitehouse.gov on or before February 26, 2008 for the Summer 2008 Internship.

If you have any questions please contact White House Personnel at 202-456-5979.

Creative Writing Contest

2008-01-24T15:18:00.000-08:00

AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

“Honoring the Legacy of
African Americans and Our Multiculturalism:
A Vision of a Dream Kept Alive.”

CREATIVE WRITING CONTEST - "A TIME TO WRITE"
Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa, The City of Los Angeles and The Los Angeles African American Heritage Month Committee invite Los Angeles County public and private school students in grades 6-12 to participate in this year’s City of Los Angeles African American Heritage Month

Presented by: Disney
Sponsored By: Time Warner Cable Co. & Wells Fargo
Official Media Sponsor: KABC-7

FOR CONTEST RULES CONTACT:
AAHM.LACITY.ORG,
CULTURELA.ORG or
213-202-5545

DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 5, 2008

Free Tax Preparation

2008-01-24T15:05:00.000-08:00

Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas invites you to FREE L.A. TAX DAY

Saturday, February 2, 2008 • 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Exposition Park Intergenerational Community Center (EXPO Center)
3980 S. Menlo Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90037

Prizes | Free Food | Free Smoothies from Robeck’s | Free Parking

Participating Agencies: Countrywide Home Loans, CSU Northridge, Empowerment Congress, Franchise Tax Board, IRS Employee Groups (AIM-IRS, HIRE, ASPIRE), L.A. City Department of Recreation & Parks, L.A. County Department of Public Social Services, Loyola Law School, and So. California Gas Company

FREE income tax preparation for individuals and small businesses (bring valid ID, SS Card and W-2s).

Also available: Prior year return preparation; Information on low-cost utility programs; ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number); application preparation; Information on FREE and low-cost financial education and banking services; and Information on FREE and low-cost medical benefits.

For more information or for an appointment:
(310) 693-6530 | www.eitc-la.com
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
www.irs.gov

L.A.'s Bike Master Plan

2008-01-24T09:47:00.000-08:00

Public Meeting Notice for February and March 2008
City of Los Angeles - Bicycle Master Plan Update
www.labikeplan.org
The City of Los Angeles is updating the Bicycle Master Plan, which will provide transportation improvements for the bicycling community. The public is invited to attend a workshop to provide input on bicycle policies, facility improvements and other related issues.

Workshops are scheduled throughout Los Angeles, at four (4) neighborhood locations, during the months of February and March 2008.

Refreshments will be served, so please join us at one or all of the workshops. If you cannot attend the workshop, you can visit the website at www.labikeplan.com.

For more information, contact the City Bicycle Coordinator, Michelle.Mowery@lacity.org or 213-972-4962; or City Planning Associate Jordann.Turner@lacity.org or 213-978-1379

Central/South Los Angeles
Date: Saturday February 16, 2008
Location: Expo Center Swim Stadium-Community Room
Address: 3980 S. Menlo Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90037
Time: 10am-12pm

West Los Angeles
Date: Wednesday February 20, 2008
Location: Felicia Mahood Multi Purpose Center
Address: 11338 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90037
Time: 6:30pm-8:30pm

Valley Area
Date: Wednesday February 27, 2008
Location: Marvin Braude-San Fernando Constituent Services Center, Conference Room 1B
Address: 6262 Van Nuys Blvd, Van Nuys, CA 91401
Time: 6:30pm-8:30pm

Harbor Area
Date: Saturday March 1, 2008
Location: Banning's Landing Community Center
Address: 100 E. Water Street, Wilmington, CA 90744
Time: 10am-12pm

Community Development Grants

2008-01-15T15:33:00.000-08:00

City of Los Angeles, California | Notice of Community Meetings for the HUD Consolidated Plan (2008–2012)and 34th Year Action Plan (2008–2009)

Residents are invited to attend one of six community meetings throughout the City of Los Angeles to review the Mayor’s proposed budget for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for the current year, the draft Five-Year Consolidated Plan and 34th Program Year Action Plan. The City will receive approximately $150 million this year from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for new housing construction and rehabilitation of existing housing, public services, programs for the homeless, those living with HIV/AIDS, community facilities, and economic development.

Activities funded through the CDBG program must primarily benefit low- and moderate-income people, eliminate blight, or generate jobs. Residents have an opportunity to provide comments and suggestions prior to the adoption of the Plans by the Mayor and Council. All comments are forwarded to the City Council, the Mayor, and included in the final Action Plan submitted to HUD.

Meetings are scheduled at the locations listed below. All sites are accessible to people with disabilities, and a Spanish translator will be available if requested at least 72 hours in advance.

South L.A.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008 @ 5:30 pm
Ascot Public Library
120 W. Florence Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90003

Please contact the CDD Grants Section at (213) 744-7100 if you need additional information about these meetings or directions.

For those who cannot attend but still wish to participate, comments or suggestions may be sent to:

City of Los Angeles, Community Development Department
Administrative Services Division, Grants Section
1200 W 7th Street, 4th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Attn: Grants Supervisor

$$$ Cash for College $$$

2008-01-03T12:39:00.000-08:00

Cash for College helps college-bound seniors apply for financial aid - and it's FREE!

Cash for College Workshop day is Saturday, February 9, from 9 AM to 2 PM.

Workshops are held at various high schools and sites throughout the City of Los Angeles. It's free for youth and parents.

For more information, please contact www.lacashforcollege.org or call 888-CA-GRANT.

Or call Maria Nieto at the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce at mnieto@lachamber.org or 213-580-7599.

Planning Training Orientation

2008-01-03T12:29:00.000-08:00

January 12, 2008 - 9AM to 1PM
Los Angeles City College
855 N. Vermont Avenue
Room AD 204 (Administration Building)
Los Angeles, CA

Parking in Lot 5, enter on Heliotrope St.

RSVP Required by January 10th!

Featured Speakers: Councilmember Janice Hahn, Vice Chair E & N Committee; Gail Goldberg, City of Los Angeles Director of Planning; Frank Bush, Chief Inspector, Code Enforcement; Robert Lamishaw, Zoning & Planning Consultant

Hosted by Planning Pilot Program – Oversight Committee (PPP-OSC)

For more information contact:
Jacque Lamishaw, Coordinator
jlamishaw@socal.rr.com
818-427-3338 between 9 AM and 6 PM
See our website at www.mouoversight.org

Become a Real Estate Agent!

2008-01-03T12:10:00.000-08:00

STUDY TO BECOME A REAL ESTATE AGENT

California's challenging housing market situation is a great time to prepare for the next real estate bubble!

Los Angeles Community College offers 4 real estate classes ON-SITE at THE WILSHIRE METRO WORKSOURCE CENTER that will prepare you for the real estate license exam.

Classes start February 4, 2008 and end June 2, 2008 and you will earn 3 college unit credits per class. These classes are low cost/fee.

Real Estate 001
Real Estate Principles
Monday from 6:00pm-9:10pm

Real Estate 003
Real Estate Practices
Tuesday from 6:00pm-9:10pm

Real Estate 005
Legal Aspects of Real Estate 1
Wednesday from 6:00pm-9:10pm

Real Estate 007
Real Estate Finance 1
Thursday from 6:00pm-9:10pm

Taken together, these classes will have you well on your way to becoming a real estate agent.

Classes Held On-site:
WILSHIRE METRO WORKSOURCE
3550 Wilshire Blvd Blvd., Suite 500
Los Angeles, CA 90010

ENROLL TODAY!

For More Information, inquire at the front desk and ask to speak with:
Dr. Bernadette Tchen, Director of LACC Wilshire Center
(213) 805-4230 or (323) 953-4000 ext 2727

Science Center School Now Accepting Applications for Enrollment

2008-01-03T11:52:00.000-08:00

Alexander Science Center School

The Dr. Theodore T. Alexander, Jr. Science Center School is now accepting applications for the 2008/09 school year.

This application must be returned or mailed to the Local District 7 Office by Friday, January 18, 2008, 5:00 p.m.

Please download an application HERE.

The school features an integrated curriculum emphasizing science, mathematics and the use of technology. Its teachers are fully credentialed with a demonstrated ability to make science and math engaging and accessible to their students. And it's not a magnet school but, rather, a neighborhood school for underserved groups of children and their parents.

School opened for the first day of classes on September 9, 2004. Over 690 students attended classes during the 2005-2006 school year.

The Dr. Theodore T. Alexander, Jr. Science Center School is a neighborhood school. In accord with the school's charter, 70% of the students attending the school are to come from the neighborhood around the California Science Center.

For information about the Science Center School, click HERE.

City Clerk to Administer NC Elections

2008-01-03T11:47:00.000-08:00

TO: Neighborhood Council Board Members

FROM: BongHwan (BH) Kim, Interim General Manager, Department of Neighborhood Empowerment (DONE)

RE: Neighborhood Council Elections to be Administered by City Clerk Beginning in April, 2008

December 21, 2007

Dear Neighborhood Council Board Members,

On December 18, 2007, the Los Angeles City Council approved a package of recommendations from the Neighborhood Council Review Commission (NCRC). Perhaps most significant among those adopted recommendations, with possible immediate impact on your Neighborhood Council, is the recommendation that the City Clerk of Los Angeles assume responsibility for conducting Neighborhood Council elections beginning in 2008.

The adoption of this recommendation is a groundbreaking change to the Neighborhood Council system and will usher in an era of new partnerships with City Departments, an expansion of resources available to Neighborhood Councils, and a re-orientation of the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment towards assisting Neighborhood Councils with the community engagement mission for which they were created.

This adopted reform will also mean a time of transition for Neighborhood Councils and the Department In the coming weeks, our Department, in conjunction with the Offices of the City Clerk and the City Attorney, will share with you all relevant information as it becomes available. In the meantime, your board should immediately consider the following information:

1) Summary of the transitional phases adopted by the City Council, and how they will affect Neighborhood Council election schedules.

2) Summary of the immediate actions your board may wish to take in the first month of 2008.

3) List of additional resources you may refer to for more comprehensive information on the election transition program.

Above all, we look forward to partnering with you as we move into the next phase of neighborhood empowerment. Please do not hesitate to contact your Neighborhood Council Advocate for assistance or for further information regarding any aspect of the election transition.

PHASES OF ELECTION TRANSITION

The NCRC election recommendation approved by City Council, when adopted by ordinance, will result in the City Clerk conducting Neighborhood Council elections during the 2nd quarter of 2008 and in every even-numbered year thereafter for all Neighborhood Councils.

During the transitional year, 2008, the City Clerk's office will begin to assume the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment's administrative election duties. In 2008, the City Clerk's office will be responsible for conducting some NC elections and the Department will have the responsibility for approving and assisting others according to the transitional phases below:

* Elections in January-March, 2008: Neighborhood Councils scheduled to elect board members during the first quarter of 2008 will hold elections under the current process outlined in the Citywide Election Procedures, conducted by an Independent Election Administrator with administrative approval and assistance from DONE.
* Elections in April-June, 2008: The City Clerk will conduct elections scheduled during the second quarter of the year, under procedures recommended by the City Clerk
* Elections in July- December 31, 2008: Neighborhood Councils whose elections are scheduled for these months may select one of the three (3) options listed below.

Neighborhood Councils must notify the City Clerk of their election option NO LATER THAN February 1, 2008:

(i) Move election forward to 2nd quarter of 2008 to be conducted by the City Clerk. To do this, your board must make, DURING THE MONTH OF JANUARY, 2008, the necessary bylaw amendments to adopt the new election schedule.

(ii) Extend the terms of current board members to 2010, so that the City Clerk conducts your election in 2010. To do this, your board must amend its bylaws to adopt the schedule change.

(iii) Proceed with elections as currently scheduled under the current process in the Citywide Election Procedures. Your Independent Election Administrator will conduct these elections with administrative approval and assistance from DONE.

ACTION STEPS YOUR BOARD MAY WISH TO TAKE IMMEDIATELY

1. Ensure that any election-related bylaw amendments that your board may wish or need to adopt are placed on your January, 2008 meeting agenda.

2. If your regular meeting schedule does not allow for sufficient time to consider possible amendments, your board may choose to schedule a special meeting at a later date in the month of January. Be sure to review your own bylaws to note whether your Neighborhood Council may adopt bylaw amendments at a special meeting, or whether your board MUST adopt bylaw amendments at a regular meeting of the board.

3. Review attached information for a more comprehensive background on the election transition.

4. Consult with your Neighborhood Council Advocate for additional assistance and/or information. In particular, your Neighborhood Council Advocate can help with any bylaw amendments your board may need to make quickly in order to modify your current election schedule and/or provisions

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & RESOURCES FOR YOUR BOARD

Beginning December 24, 2007, please find the below-listed documents on our Department's website. Our website address is: www.lacityneighborhoods.com

You may also request that the Department forward the following documents to your electronic mail address.

1) Addendum re: Election Transition for Neighborhood Councils-This correspondence outlines more comprehensive election-related bylaw adjustments your board should consider immediately and in the longer term.

2) Report from the City Clerk-This report outlines the City Clerk's vision of how his office will conduct Neighborhood Council elections during and after the transitional phases.

3) Department of Neighborhood Empowerment Report to City Council Re: NCRC Recommendations-This report summarizes the Department's anticipated reforms and activities as related to NCRC recommendations.

4) Report from the Chief Legislative Analyst-This report analyzes the procedural and legislative aspects of City Council's adoption of the NCRC recommendations.

LAUSD New Construction Project

2008-01-03T11:33:00.000-08:00

LOS ANGELES UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
New Construction - Community Outreach Department: Pre-Construction Notice

Central Region Elementary School #15
About the Project: The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is building a new elementary school at 1723 W. Cordova Street (corner of Budlong Avenue and Cordova Street), Los Angeles, CA 90007. The project consists of 23 classrooms, a library, multi-purpose room, food service and lunch shelter, administration, playfields, and underground parking. The new school will relieve overcrowding at 10th Street Elementary School, Magnolia Elementary School and Politi Elementary School.

Construction Schedule: Construction is scheduled to start in March 2008. Construction completion is scheduled for January 2010.

Hours of Construction: In accordance with regulations related to construction
work in the City of Los Angeles, construction activity will take place between the
hours of 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays. The construction crew may work restricted hours on weekends as needed.

Whom do I call if I have questions? If you have any questions, please call Steven Song of LAUSD Community Outreach at (213) 893-6834 or toll-free (800) 704-1267.

For more information about this project, please attend a community meeting on: Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 6:00 pm at:
Salvin Special Education Center (Auditorium)
1925 Budlong Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90007

AVISO SOBRE EL INICIO DE LA CONSTRUCCIÓN

Central Region Elementary School #15
Resumen sobre el proyecto: El Distrito Escolar Unificado de Los Angeles (LAUSD) está construyendo una nueva escuela primaria en 1723 W. Cordova Street (en la esquina de Budlong Avenue y Cordova Street), Los Angeles, CA 90007. El proyecto consiste de 23 salones, biblioteca, salón multi-usos, servicios alimenticios y un lugar bajo techo para el almuerzo, administración, áreas de juego y estacionamiento subterráneo. La nueva escuela aliviará la sobrepoblación estudiantil en las primarias 10th Street, Magnolia y Politi.

Jornadas de trabajo: La construcción está programada para comenzar en Marzo de 2008. La construcción está programada para terminar en Enero de 2010.

Horario de Construcción: De acuerdo con los reglamentos referentes al trabajo de construcción en la ciudad de Los Angeles, la mayoría del trabajo de demolición se hará entre 7:00 a.m. y 9:00 p.m., de lunes a viernes y entre 8:00 a.m. y 6:00 p.m. los sábados. Sólo si es absolutamente necesario se trabajará durante los fines de semana.

¿Con quién hablo si tengo preguntas? Si tiene preguntas sobre este proyecto, por favor llame a Steven Song de LAUSD Community Outreach al (213) 893-6834 o gratis al (800) 704-1267.

Para más informes sobre este proyecto, asista a la junta que se llevará a cabo el: Miércoles, 16 de Enero de 2008 al 6:00 pm en:
Salvin Special Education Center (Auditorio)
1925 Budlong Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90007

Expo Line: Farmdale Crossing Meeting

2008-01-03T11:25:00.001-08:00

The Exposition Construction Authority invites you to a presentation to review the grade crossing alternatives proposed for Farmdale Avenue for the Exposition Light Rail Line.

Date: Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: West Angeles Church of God in Christ
The Crystal Room
3045 Crenshaw Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90016

Church-owned parking lots and street parking are available within walking distance to the West Angeles Church’s Crystal Room.

EXPO Light Rail ProjectGovernment/Community Relations
CONTACT INFORMATION
Greg Starosky
Representative
Tel. 213-243-5534
gstarosky@exporail.net

Torri D. Hill
FCI/Fluor/Parsons, a JV
Tel. 323-290-7605
torri.hill@parsons.com

www.BuildExpo.org
213-922-EXPO (3976)

Climate Change

2007-12-05T16:19:00.000-08:00

City of Los Angeles
Department of Public Works and Million Trees LA
present the
2007 Environmental Youth Conference
Climate Change:
How it impacts us now
How we can make a difference

December 8, 2007 - Saturday
7:00 am Registration
8:00 am - 1:00 pm Conference

Los Angeles Convention Center, West Hall (Yorty Hall)
1201 South Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90015

Admission is FREE for youth ages 12 to 21
For more information call 213.473.9950 or visit www.milliontreesla.org

Parks & Recreation Needs Your Input

2007-11-29T13:54:00.000-08:00

YOUR PARKS...YOUR CITY...YOUR FUTURE
SUS PARQUES...SU CIUDAD...SU FUTURO

The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks wants your input...

The Citywide Community Needs Assessment will provide the City of Los Angeles with valuable information to be used in planning for the future and will contribute to the protection and expansion of Los Angeles’ 15,000 acres of existing parkland. Join us in shaping the future of parks in Los Angeles.

Please invite your family, friends, neighbors and colleagues to the public meeting in your area. Don’t miss the opportunity to have your voice heard! The meeting will start promptly and will include a presentation and an interactive work session.

Refreshments will also be provided.

Este estudio proveerá a la ciudad de Los Angeles la información valiosa que se utilizará en la planificación para el futuro y contribuirá a la protección y a la ampliacion de parques existentes. Participe en planificar el futuro de parques en Los Ángeles.

Invitar por favor a tu familia, amigos, vecinos ycolegas a la reunión pública en tu área. ¡No pierda la oportunidad de comentar! ¡Su voz es importante! La reunión comenzará puntualmente e incluirá una presentación y una sesión interactiva del trabajo.

Los refrigerios también serán proporcionados.

For more information, please call 213-928-9136 or visit us online at www.laparks.org.

Para más información, por favor llamar 213-928-9136 o visitemos en línea en www.laparks.org.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! - ¡NECESITAMOS SU PARTICIPACION!

CITY OF LOS ANGELES
DEPARTMENT OF RECREATION AND PARKS
2007 CITYWIDE COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT COMPLETE COMMUNITY WORKSHOP SCHEDULE
HORARIO DE TALLERES COMMUNITARIOS

COUNCIL DISTRICT 1
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2007
10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
Lincoln Park Recreation Center
3501 Valley Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90031

COUNCIL DISTRICT 2
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 9, 2008
6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
Studio City Recreation Center
12621 Rye St.
Studio City, CA 91604

COUNCIL DISTRICT 3
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2007
6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
Woodland Hills Recreation Center
5858 Shoup Ave.
Woodland Hills, CA 91367

COUNCIL DISTRICT 4
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2007
6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
Friendship Auditorium
3201 Riverside Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90027

COUNCIL DISTRICT 5
TUESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2008
6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
Westwood Recreation Center
1350 Sepulveda Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90025

COUNCIL DISTRICT 6
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2008
6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
Sun Valley Recreation Center
8133 Vineland Ave.
Sun Valley, CA 91352

COUNCIL DISTRICT 7
THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2008
6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
Ritchie Valens Recreation Center
10731 Laurel Canyon Blvd.
Pacoima, CA 91331

COUNCIL DISTRICT 8
SATURDAY, JANUARY 12, 2008
10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
Expo Center (EPICC)
3980 S. Menlo Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90037

COUNCIL DISTRICT 9
SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 2008
10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
Ross Snyder Recreation Center
1501 E. 41st St.
Los Angeles, CA 90011

COUNCIL DISTRICT 10
MONDAY, JANUARY 7, 2008
6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
Rancho Cienega Sport Complex Center
5001 Rodeo Rd.
Los Angeles, CA 90016

COUNCIL DISTRICT 11
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2008
7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
Stoner Recreation Center
1835 Stoner Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90025

COUNCIL DISTRICT 12
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2007
10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
Mason Recreation Center
10500 Mason Ave.
Chatsworth, CA 91311

COUNCIL DISTRICT 13
SATURDAY, JANUARY 19, 2008
12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M.
Glassell Park Recreation Center
3650 Verdugo Rd.
Los Angeles, CA 90065

COUNCIL DISTRICT 14
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2007
6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
Ramona Hall Community Center
4580 N. Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA 90042

COUNCIL DISTRICT 15
THURSDAY, JANUARY 24, 2008
6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
Peck Park Community Center
560 N. Western Ave.
San Pedro, CA 90732

YOUR PARKS..YOUR CITY..YOUR FUTURE

New Film: Angels in the Dust

2007-10-08T09:40:00.000-07:00

The ARROYO SECO NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL - Outreach Committee
Invites you to a screening of
ANGELS IN THE DUST
directed by Louise Hogarth.
RECEPTION 6pm
SCREENING 7PM
Followed by a talk/Q&A with the Director

Wednesday, October 24th 2007

JACK AND DENNY MULTI PURPOSE ROOM
Mount Washington Elementary School
3981 San Rafael Avenue
Los Angeles CA 90065

Angels in the Dust is a story of hope and healing in the face of a staggering crisis. AIDS is leaving entire South African villages decimated and thousands of children orphaned, with no adults to raise them. The inspiring story of Marion Cloete, a university-trained therapist who — with her husband and three daughters — fearlessly walked away from a privileged life in a wealthy Johannesburg suburb to build Botshabelo, an extraordinary village and school that provides shelter, food, and education to more than 550 South African children.

Check out www.dolfilms.org/angels/index.html

2nd ANNUAL "TASTE OF SOUL"

2007-10-05T10:32:00.000-07:00

Come and join Supervisor Yvonne Burke & Councilmembers Bernard Parks, Jan Perry & Herb Wesson at the Greatest Street Scene Ever. Entertainment, Food Vendor &
Activities for All Ages!

When: Saturday October 13, 2007

Where: On Crenshaw Bl. between King Bl. & Rodeo Rd.

Sponsors: Los Angeles Sentinel Newspaper, V100 Radio & McDonald's

Contact Info:
Brenda Marsh, Los Angeles Sentinel 323-299-3800 or
Debbie Beavers, 8th Council District 213-485-7616

Free PSAT Test

2007-10-03T16:01:00.000-07:00

FREE PSAT SAMPLE TEST SEMINAR

When: Saturday, October 6 from 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM

Where: The Watts Branch Library

What: Prepare to take the new PSAT test by attending.

This is a FREE sample test of the PSAT.

Why: Princeton Review is providing this unique opportunity to improve your test score!

Alma Reaves Woods – Watts Branch
Los Angeles Public Library
10205 Compton Avenue
Compton, CA
(323) 789-2850

You Should Be a Harvard Student

2007-09-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

Introducing the HBS 2+2 Program.

Now accepting applications from college juniors. As a friend of the Harvard Business School community, we are excited to share with you the launch of an innovative new program: HBS 2+2.

The HBS 2+2 Program targets talented college students who traditionally would not consider business education. The program accepts applications from college juniors for deferred admission to Harvard Business School. HBS 2+2 is positioned as a four-year experience comprising two years of work after the completion of an undergraduate degree followed by two years of immersion in our MBA Program.

Once students are admitted to HBS 2+2, they become connected to the HBS community and enjoy a range of program-specific benefits.

These benefits include dedicated career coaching and self-assessment, access to select recruiting partners, and two on-campus summer programs (after graduation and between the first and second year of work).

To learn more about the program, visit the 2+2 Program Website www.hbs.edu/mba/2%2b2/.

Additionally, we welcome you to download the HBS 2+2 Program brochure www.hbs.edu/mba/2+2/brochure.pdf .

Please feel free to contact us with any questions at
2plus2@hbs.edu.

Don't Believe the Hype!

2007-09-21T09:28:00.000-07:00

From the 'Do Not Call Website' (www.donotcall.gov)

Despite Re-Circulating E-mail, It is Still Not Necessary to Register Cell Phone Numbers

As the number of phone numbers on the National Do Not Call (DNC) Registry surpassed 139 million, the Federal Trade Commission today reiterated that despite the claims made in e-mails circulating on the Internet, consumers should not be concerned that their cell phone numbers will be released to telemarketers at any time in the near future. In addition, according to the agency, it is not necessary to register cell phone numbers on the DNC Registry to be protected from most telemarketing calls to cell phones.

The truth about cell phones and the DNC Registry is:

* Contrary to the e-mail, cell phone numbers are NOT being released to telemarketers, and you will NOT soon be getting telemarketing calls on your cell phone.

Spend $125 Million

2007-08-27T14:28:00.000-07:00

Consolidated planning is your opportunity to tell the City of Los Angeles how to spend more than $125 million.

Did you know these funds are used to finance:

* Training for start-ups and small businesses

* Construction of day-care centers

* After-school programs for the children of low- and moderate-income working parents

* Hot meals and health screening for elderly and disabled citizens

* Construction or expansion of community centers and health service facilities

* Street lighting and sidewalk repair

Now is your chance to say how $125 million in Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funds should be spent for the upcoming year. Come to a meeting in your community to offer your ideas. Funds must be used to primarily benefit low- and moderate-income persons. Your viewpoint is essential to wise use of these funds; we welcome your participation, and your voice will be heard.

Residents are invited to attend one of six community meetings throughout the city of Los Angeles to provide input on priorities for expenditure of HUD Consolidated Plan
funds over the next five years, and for the upcoming 34th Program Year. The City receives approximately $125 million annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for new housing construction and rehabilitation of existing housing, public services, programs for the homeless and those living with HIV/AIDS; community facilities; and economic development. Activities funded through the CDBG program must primarily benefit low- and moderate-income people, eliminate blight, or generate jobs.

Meetings are scheduled at the following locations. All sites are disabled accessible, and Spanish-speaking translators are available.

Please contact the CDD Grants Section at (213) 744-9021 if you need additional information about these meetings or directions. For those that cannot attend but still wish to participate, comments or suggestions may be sent to:

City of Los Angeles
CDD Administrative Services Division, Grants Section
1200 W. 7th Street, 4th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Attn: Grants Supervisor

The South LA meeting will be held on:
Tuesday, September 4, 2007 @ 6: 00 p.m.
Ascot Public Library
120 W Florence Ave
Los Angeles CA 90003

Beautification Grants

2007-08-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

The deadline for the City's $10K Community Beautification Grant is quickly approaching (October 17th), and traditionally our community never gets its fair share because fewer people/organizations apply and apply correctly.

The City is holding two of their nine final grant writing workshops in our backyard to help individuals better understand the program and fill out the application:

Wednesday, August 29 - 6PM - South LA Constituent Service Center - 8475 S. Vermont 90044 (Vermont & Manchester)

Tuesday, September 4 - 6PM - Council District 10 Community Room - 1819 S. Western Ave 90006 (Western & Washington)

Please pass on this info to all interested people in our community.

For more info about the program go to the City's Office of Community Beautification website at www.laocb.org.

Free Eye-Care Exams

2007-08-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

FREE EYE CARE EXAMS & GLASSES

For Children and Youth between the ages of 4 and 21
When: September 24 to 28, 2007 from 9am - 5pm
Where: United American Indian Involvement, Inc. Headquarters
1125 W. 6th St. Suite 103
L.A., CA

United American Indian Involvement, Inc. has partnered with LensCrafters/"Gift of Sight Program" to provide free eye care and glasses for children and youth ages 4 to 21. This eye clinic is open to all communities, "no documents required." Just a signed consent form by the parents or guardians for minors under 18 years of age. Anyone who cannot afford and eye exam and/or glasses will eligible whether or not they have insurance, as long as they are within the target ages. Scheduling of appointments begins in August.

For more information and questions, please call: (213) 202-3970, ask for "Gift of Sight."