Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to Receive Updates Via Email

Contact Liz Ritter at Elritter@Adrianoespaillat.Org to Receive Updates Via Email

Wednesday, October 15th, 2014

Dear Neighbor,

This week’s edition is particularly full! Don’t miss the Participatory Budgeting Assemblies next week with Councilmembers Rodriguez & Levine, Our Housing Rally & March on Saturday, October 25th (flyer attached), Free ‘flu vaccination clinics next Wednesday & Friday, Turn of the Screw at the Morris-Jumel Mansion beginning Thursday, Memorial March / Mass for Officers Buczek & Hoban on Friday morning, and many other events. There are also grant opportunities for beautifying your block, and lots of news tidbits in the “general info” section, many terrific Halloween events, and more. Scroll down for details.

***Note for residents of Pinnacle buildings: As the result of a class action settlement, rent-regulated tenants in buildings owned by Pinnacle are eligible to receive damages for actions from 2004 to 2010. Read the Legal Aid Society's flyer online (in English and Spanish), or call our office (212-544-0173) or 888- 736-8115 for information. The filing deadline has been extended to December 31st.***

Scroll down for information about things happening:  Tomorrow (Thursday) & Friday (11 items)  This weekend (19 items)  Next week (15 items)  Next weekend (4 items)  Looking ahead / Save-the-Date! (13 items)  Educational opportunities (5 items)  Jobs & vocational training (5 items)  Health, recreation & fitness (13 items)  How You Can Help (9 items): share your money / stuff / time  Transit & transportation (3 items)  Loans, Grants, Contests & Awards (5 items)  General information, ongoing events & news-you-can-use (4 items)  LG / Palisades update (4 items)

Please share this e-mail with friends/neighbors. If you know someone who’d like to subscribe, have them e-mail me with their ZIP code. If you have an event you’d like to list here, email me the details (text or .doc format, please, not .pdf or .jpg).

Best, Liz Ritter

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email

***TOMORROW (THURSDAY) & FRIDAY*** (11 items) Domestic Violence & the Workplace: Empowering Survivors Through Best Practices and Resources The Office to Combat Domestic Violence, in partnership with the Commission on Human Rights, Department of Consumer Affairs, Office of Immigrant Affairs, Small Business Services and the Partnership for New York City are co-sponsoring this forum. This exciting citywide event will convene leading experts and employers from a variety of sectors to provide an updated overview of the law as well as successful approaches for businesses, corporations, executives, human resources personnel, security and facility directors. Please join us for this important dialogue regarding the impact of domestic violence on the workplace and protecting the rights of victims of domestic violence. Registration a must; deadline: 10/14. The event is free and breakfast will be provided. To register on-line go to: https://a002- oom03.nyc.gov/IRM/EventRegistration/RegForm.aspx?eventGuid=289fb45c-3ab1-4817-a95d- 9746c82eabb4. Thursday, October 16th, 8am-10:30am.

Artists Fuse with Technology: Panel moderated the West Harlem Art Fund. The rapid pace of technology has opened doors for creating 21st century art. White walls are crumbling and artists are beginning to taking advantage of these new opportunities. Engaging the public and offering them the choice to participate and even shape the focus and direction of art is now a reality. We are no longer watching old Jetson television shows but actually living it. Harlem creative professionals are tapping into these platforms and partnering with other institutions around the City. Panelists include local and NYC- based groups who will share developments on these emerging technologies and collaborative projects. At the Silicon Harlem Technology Conference at MIST Harlem located at 46 W. 116th St. Online Registration: http://siliconharlem.net/show-your-love/. Thursday, October 16th, 1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.

College Prep Program Word Up's first College Prep Program will be facilitated every week by a writing consultant from Columbia University. Each week, high school juniors and seniors will work on personal statements and college application and scholarship materials. Pay What You Can. At Word Up! Community Bookstore, 2113 Amsterdam Ave. at W. 165th St. Thursdays, 4:45pm–6:15pm

Selfless Selfies Opening at NoMAA presenting black & white images by uptown photographers that narrate stories from our uptown communities, Washington Heights-Inwood, El Barrio, Central and West Harlem. At the Northern Manhattan Arts Alliance (178 Bennett Ave. at W. 189th St., 3rd floor); call 212- 568-4396 for more information. And check out this blurb from the NY Daily News: http://nydn.us/1CeLFAb (“New Washington Heights photo show captures everyday life uptown The 30 photographers featured in the show snapped black and white photos in the upper Manhattan neighborhoods of Marble Hill, Washington Heights, Inwood, Hamilton Heights, Central Harlem and El Barrio. Curators expect the shots to spark a dialogue about gentrification.”) Exhibit on display October 16th November 19th, 11am-6pm weekdays, and by appointment. Artists’ talk, Tuesday, October 28th at 6:30pm. Thursday, October 16th, 6-8pm.

Learn How to Read Labels for a Healthier You! Come to a free health education workshop on the importance of reading food labels and picking the right foods for you. Knowing how to choose the right bread, cereal or ice cream can make a huge difference in your waist size. This class will cover basic information on reading food labels, calculating your carbohydrates, understanding the glycemic index of foods and choosing fun foods that are healthy for you too! For this cycle of classes at Community Health Academy, please take note that we will not be accepting online or phone registration. In order to

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email register for classes, you must arrive early to 504 W. 158th Street, and we can check you in from there. Class attendance is first come first serve. Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation, Community League of the Heights, Inwood Community Services, Inc. and EmblemHealth are pleased bring you twelve weeks of classes to help you stay healthy, get well and live better. For the full schedule, visit http://emblemhealthlivehealthy.com/?utm_source=Washington%20Heights&utm_medium=Email&utm _term=Cycle%201&utm_campaign=Live%20Healthy%20 or call 877-444-3674. Thursday, October 16th at 7:30pm.

The Turn of the Screw Figures pass through the shadows and stare into windows, watching the children, waiting to take them away. Their young governess stands ready to protect them – but do they want to be saved? Everyday Inferno Theatre Company presents a haunting new adaptation of Henry James’ classic novella of innocence, sensuality, and horror in a site-specific staging produced in partnership with The Morris-Jumel Mansion. Tickets are $18 per person and $13 for members., and can be purchased online at www.morrisjumel.org. (Members should call the Mansion at 212-923-8008 for the membership discount code before purchasing tickets.) At the Morris-Jumel Mansion, located between W. 160th and W. 162nd Streets just east of St. Nicholas Avenue. October 16th through November 2nd; at 8pm (Thursday-Saturday) and 6pm (Sundays).

26th Anniversary Memorial March & Mass to honor Police Officers Michael J. Buczek & Christopher Hoban, killed in line of duty on October 18, 1988 in separate incidents. March begins at Broadway & W. 185th St., to St. Elizabeth’s Church (268 Wadsworth Ave. @ W. 187th St.) for Mass. Friday, October 17th beginning at 10:30am.

How to Communicate With Your Doctors The marvels of modern medicine now allow most of us to live much longer, but not necessarily better. This session will focus on new NY State health care laws which can benefit you and what you can do to get your pain well controlled and have your health care choices respected. At Isabella, 515 Audubon Ave. @ W. 190th St. (Larson Library). Friday, October 17th, 11am – noon.

Teens Take the Met The Metropolitan Museum of Art will burst with energy and excitement as teenagers from New York City’s boroughs and beyond take over the Museum. More than 40 cultural organizations have teamed up for Teens Take the Met, a dynamic evening of art making, music, performance, gallery activities, films, a dance party, and more. The evening of art and culture is free for all teens (age 13 or older) with a middle- or high-school ID. Featuring a wide range of interactive experiences, the museum-wide event will give teens a taste of programs that take place across the city and at cultural organizations large and small. Participatory projects—3D printing workshops, screen printing, live performances, opinionated teen-led gallery talks, digital music-making, playwriting workshops, dance classes, teen-made films, and more—have been designed by more than 40 cultural and youth organizations, along with the Met’s own teen advisors. Inspired by the Metropolitan Museum’s unique and diverse collections of art, and taking place throughout the building, these activities will transform the Museum for the evening. (The list of collaborating organizations is attached.) Sign language interpretation, assistive listening devices, sighted guides, large print and braille information, and a designated quiet space will be available.

Teens will enter the Museum and pick up their special-event bracelets at the 81st Street & Fifth Avenue entrance. The bracelets will grant youth access to teen-only activities throughout the building. All Teens Take the Met participants will receive a gift, with an extra prize for the first 100 teens. DJ Kakez, herself a teenager, will rock the crowd with music. The event will unfold throughout the galleries, and into a

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email teen-only dance party in the Uris Center for Education, where there will be live projections of event- specific Instagram and Twitter feeds. In addition, there will be free snacks and a photo booth elsewhere in the Museum. Friday, October 17, 5pm – 8pm.

Bread & Yoga Open House Weekend There is also a schedule of almost a dozen FREE classes all weekend; including Tai Chi in Inwood Hill Park at noon on Saturday. Visit http://www.breadandyoga.com/newsite/blog/open-house-weekend-5-year-anniversary-celebration/ for a complete schedule. Classes are pay-what-you-wish donation; all proceeds are tax-deductible and go to help fund our tween & teen scholarships for arts and cooking classes. Friday – Sunday, October 17th – 19th.

Photovoice Gallery 2014 The UNIDOS Coalition is proud to host Photovoice Gallery 2014 in honor of Substance Abuse Prevention Month. Photovoice is a participatory action research method by which people can identify, represent and enhance their community through specific photographic technique. By using photography as a data collection tool, images become the universal language, expressing an individual’s and/or community’s reality or experience while minimizing language and cultural barriers. The UNIDOS Coalition presents Photovoice Gallery 2014 as a compilation of photography, sppken word, music and other media. The Gallery is being presented to showcase positives and negatives of substances within the Washington Heights & Inwood communities as well as to work in partnership with the campaign to remove alcohol advertising from our transit system: #alcadfreeMTA. Show your support and register today for your FREE ticket by visiting: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/photovoice-gallery- 2014-tickets-13287825243?aff=es2&rank=1. Dress to impress and be ready to enjoy live performance as well as amazing food. At the Alianza Triangle Building, 530 W. 166th St. at St. Nicholas Ave. Friday, October 17th, 6:30pm – 9:30pm.

***THIS WEEKEND*** (19 items) SATURDAY (14 items) Manhattan UFT Borough-wide Parent Conference: Empowering Parents, Building Parent-School Partnerships Free workshops; free breakfast & lunch; exhibitions; raffle prizes. Workshops include: child safety, common core standards, getting ready for kindergarten, selecting the right high school, effective communication skills for parents, helping the reluctant middle school reader, financial literacy, social media & kids, CPR basics, how to support your differently-abled child, and much, much more. Translation available. NO childcare; this conference is for ADULTS ONLY. At the UFT, 52 Broadway, 10th floor. Register online at www.uft.org/manhattanparents; F or more information, email Francine Streich at [email protected]. Saturday, October 18th, 8:30am – 3:30pm.

Flea Market at the RING (rescheduled from last weekend due to rain.) Join your neighbors at the Riverside / Inwood Neighborhood Garden (confluence of Broadway, Riverside Drive & Dyckman Street). Sell your old stuff, buy some new stuff! Minimal table fee benefits the Garden. Our plant sale is being resurrected this year, and we'll have dug up some coleus, geraniums, and begonias to sell. For more information, contact Nancy: 212-567-1971 or visit www.ringgarden.org. We're also looking to encourage passersby to join and volunteer at RING. Would you like to help at RING's table sometime during the day? We really need RINGers to step up. Please just come by or let us know in advance. Saturday, October 18th, 9am - 4pm.

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email Circle Up with the People’s Theatre Project Registration is now open for Circle Up, our new theatre program that picks up where the Live Your Life program leaves off. Over the past 5 years, our youngest actors have created original plays inspired by the 10 Habits of Healthy Kids. We'll keep talking about the importance of personal health, but are excited to add family and community health to the conversation. Circle Up is People's Theatre Project's FREE theatre program for children ages 6-12, sponsored by New- York Presbyterian Hospital. In Circle Up, children engage in theatre games, improvisation and physical activities to learn about wellness for their body, mind, heart and community. The young actors work together to create and perform an original theatre piece for their families, friends and the community at the end of the program. At the Alianza Cultural Center (530 W. 166th St). Saturdays from 9:30am - 1pm, beginning October 18th, through December 13th.

4th Annual Collegiate / Science and Technology College Fair Representatives from CSTEP institutions such as Barnard, Mercy College, New York University, SUNY Brockport, SUNY Oswego, Stony Brook University, and Syracuse University among others will be there. Also selected private out-of-state colleges such as George Mason, Harvard University, Howard University, Tufts University, and Wesleyan University will also be in attendance. The college fair will provide our students and parents/guardians to personally interact with college representatives, receive information, and attend workshops. There will be several panel discussions about the application and admissions process as well as a student-led panel discussion about Life at College. At The Great Hall inside CUNY’s Shepard Hall (140th St. & Convent Ave.).For more information contact Diandra Jugmohan, Hostos C.C. STEP Assistant Director: 718-518- 6773 / [email protected]. Saturday, October 18th, 9:30am – 1pm.

Free Saturday Art Classes for Kids This Fall, Creative Arts Workshops, “Saturday Artworks,” will be at Inwood Library inviting students to travel back in time and explore the art, literature, music and social impact of the Harlem Renaissance. Students will examine works from the time and use them as inspiration for their own work, learning techniques such as painting, sculpting, etching, collage and more. To sign up your child, please call Inwood Library at 212-942-2445. Or notify us via Facebook! You'll find us under Inwood Library. For ages 7-11. Saturdays, October 18th through December 6th, 10am – noon. (No classes 11/8 & 11/29).

Homer's Run Fall Clean-up Day Calling all dog owners who use Homer's Run or just want to be helpful community neighbors! Come help clean and help us prepare for our brand new fencing coming in with the funding provided by Iams and the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation along with generous donations from neighborhood allies! Be there or be square! Tools, gloves and refreshments will be provided. At Homer's Run, in Inwood Hill Park. (**NOTE: Dog run closed to public during maintenance.**) Saturday, October 18th, 10am - noon.

2014 Borough-wide High School Fairs will be held this weekend in the Bronx (Theodore Roosevelt Educational Campus, 500 E. Fordham Rd.) and Manhattan (MKL, Jr. Educational Campus, 122 Amsterdam Ave.). For more information, visit www.nyc.gov/schools/highschool. Saturday/Sunday, October 18th & 19th, 10am-3pm.

Fort Tryon Harvest Festival Crafts, pumpkins, donuts, decorate-your-own cupcakes, face painting, music, pie contest, and more! Free! (Donations gladly accepted.) On the Café lawn in Ft. Tryon Park. Saturday, October 18th, 11am-4pm.

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email Story Time for Kids (ages 3 and up) Story Time is back! Bring your kids to hear their favorite stories read out loud by experienced, trained readers. At Word Up! Community Bookstore, 2113 Amsterdam Ave. at W. 165th St. Saturdays, noon – 1pm.

NYPD's 2014 Community Career Day Meet police officers from various specialized units, including the Detective Bureau, Organized Crime Control, Counterterrorism, School Safety, Budget & Finance, Traffic Enforcement, 911, Crime Scene Unit, and more. Activities include demonstrations from specialized units, rock climbing, promotional items, face painting, and more. For more information, call 212-RECRUIT (732-7848) or visit www.NYPDrecruit.com. At Poe Park, Grand Concourse & E. 192nd St. in the Bronx. Saturday, October 18th, noon – 4pm.

Shakespeare Saturdays presents "The Passionate Pilgrim," a collection of poems written by several 16th century poets, including Shakespeare. In the true spirit of a poetry slam, the audience is invited to participate and take turns reading each poem. It's a free event! Open to all interested readers and audience members alike. At The Inwood Library, 4790 Broadway (between Dyckman & Cummings Streets). Free and open to the public. Saturday, October 18th at 2:30pm.

William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet presented by the Pied Piper Children’s Theatre At the Theatre Space at Holy Trinity Church Inwood, 20 Cumming Street (one block north of Dyckman, between Broadway & Seaman Ave.) Admission: $12, Adults; $10, Children (under 16) and Seniors (62 & up). Available on-line at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/839961. All seating is GENERAL SEATING - Doors will open approximately 15 minutes prior to curtain. Tickets bought online in advance will be given PRIORITY to enter the theater space when the house opens. You may also buy tickets at the door (cash or check only) beginning 45 minutes before curtain. Saturdays, October 18th & 25th, 3pm & 8pm. Sundays, October 19th & 26th at 4pm.

Celebrate Bread & Yoga’s 5th Anniversary Party We’re celebrating 5 fantastic years in Inwood with a party for the whole community. Invite your friends and come out to enjoy a special performances, art pieces, a photo booth and more! Saturday, October 18th, 6:30pm – 9:30pm.

SUNDAY (5 items) 2014 Borough-wide High School Fairs will be held this weekend in the Bronx (Theodore Roosevelt Educational Campus, 500 E. Fordham Rd.) and Manhattan (MKL, Jr. Educational Campus, 122 Amsterdam Ave.). For more information, visit www.nyc.gov/schools/highschool. Sunday, October 19th, 10am-3pm.

Fall Festival at the Dyckman Farmhouse Museum Take a tour, see a model of the Farmhouse built of LEGO bricks, learn about the Dyckman harvest and watch an apple press in action. Plus, activities for children. (11am-3pm) Followed by live jazz on the back porch and a beer tasting with the Dyckman Beer Company. (3:30pm-5:30pm) Free, except for the beer tasting, which is $10. At the Dyckman Farmhouse,

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email 4881 Broadway @ W. 204th Street. For more information, visit www.dyckmanfarmhouse.org/fall- festival. Sunday, October 19th, 11am – 5:30pm. (Note: the LEGO model will be on view through November 30th.)

Movie Screening: “A Place at the Table,” a film that gives a fascinating look at hunger in America. "A Place at the Table” tells the powerful stories of three such Americans, who maintain their dignity even as they struggle just to eat" (http://www.magpictures.com/aplaceatthetable/#sthash.z2TUPyEg.dpuf). Following the film, we will be hosting a panel discussion. At the YM/YWHA of Washington Heights & Inwood, 54 Nagle Ave. FREE! For more information, contact Chevi Marks, 212-569-6200 x251 / [email protected]. Sunday, October 19th at 2pm.

Novels With a Social Conscience: A Book Discussion Group at Word Up. Join us to discuss Michael Gold's, Jews Without Money (1930, 308 pp.). This fictionalized autobiography focuses on a Jewish family from eastern Europe living on New York's Lower East Side in the 1920s. Please prepare in advance by reading the novel. For more information, contact Bob Lamm at [email protected]. At Word Up! Community Bookshop, 2113 Amsterdam Avenue @West 165th Street. 347-688-3456. Sunday, October 19th, 3pm - 5pm.

William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet presented by the Pied Piper Children’s Theatre See description above. Sundays, October 19th & 26th at 4pm.

***NEXT WEEK*** (15 items) American Diabetes Association Lecture Series At the Allen Hospital Thayer Conference Room B 1CW-003, 5141 Broadway at W. 220th St. FREE and open to all. Space is limited. Call HealthOutreach at 212-932- 5844 to register/reserve. Light refreshment will be served.  Why Checking Your Blood Glucose Is the Key, Monday, October 20th, 1pm – 2pm.  Risk Control for Heart Attack and Stroke, Tuesday, October 21st, 1pm – 2pm.  The Lowdown on Diabetes and Depression, Wednesday, October 22nd, 2pm – 3pm.

Leon Klinghoffer & the Achille Lauro The Jewish Community Relations Council of New York is deeply disturbed by The Metropolitan Opera's decision to move forward with the production of "The Death of Klinghoffer." On the night of the opening of this opera, we hope you will join us as we screen a film which accurately portrays Leon Klinghoffer's murder. The made-for-TV film, “Voyage of Terror: The Achille Lauro Affair,” stars Burt Lancaster and Eva Marie Saint as Leon & Marilyn Klinghoffer. Originally scripted as a mini-series, Voyage of Terror debuted as a full-length feature film in April 1990. The film, which was recorded on the Achille Lauro itself, aired in the United States, Germany, Italy and France. Congressman Jerry Nadler will provide opening remarks. At the JCC in Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave (btw. 75th & 76th Streets). Free admission, but RSVP is required: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1cPU3-Ju8KcyNTNlgvgAhtklgD-X5-4Lak4e2PMKDNqQ/viewform. Monday, October 20th at 7:30pm.

Hey knitters (and crocheters), come to the library on Tuesday mornings and join our new knitting circle! A great way to meet your neighbors! At the Inwood Branch Public Library, 4790 Broadway. Every Tuesday at 11:30am.

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email Do you or your family need health insurance? In-person assistance in English and Spanish for Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and NYC Qualified plans. At NoMAA, 178 Bennett Ave. 3rd floor. For more information, call 212-233-8955 ext.127. Every Tuesday, 1pm - 6pm

Participatory Budgeting Neighborhood Assemblies Are you a resident of Washington Heights, Inwood or Marble Hill? Please join NYC Councilmember Ydanis Rodriguez & CB12. You can help decide how to spend $1 million of taxpayer money for community improvements to parks, schools, libraries, streets, and more. Join us at an upcoming Neighborhood Assemblies and find out how you can be a part of this unique experience. REAL MONEY / REAL PROJECTS / REAL POWER / YOU DECIDE! Three neighborhood assemblies, all held in our local branch libraries: Tuesday, 10/21 @ 6pm at the Ft. Washington Branch (535 W. 179th St.), Thursday, 10/30 @ 6pm at the Washington Heights Branch (1000 St. Nicholas Ave.) To RSVP or for more information, email [email protected].

Town Hall Meeting Featuring guests from key City and State agencies to answer your questions on Sanitation, Policing, Parks, Transit, Housing, and many other important quality-of-life matters in our community. At the Campbell Sports Center, 505 W. 218th St., between Broadway & Park Terrace East. RSVP helpful: [email protected]. Tuesday, October 21st, 6:30pm-8:30pm. (Doors open at 6pm.)

6th Annual KidCinemaFest Film Festival will take place with screenings for children/families at the United Palace, Alianza Dominicana Cultural Center, Casita Maria in the Bronx, Beacon MS 326 and various public schools throughout Washington Heights, Marble Hill and Inwood. For more information visit our website: www.kidcinemafest.com. October 22nd – 31st.

6th Annual KidCinemaFest Film Festival’s Opening Night We are proud to announce that the French film “Ernest & Celestine” (Ernest et Célestine) will open the film festival! This Academy Award nominee for Best Animated Feature follows little Celestine, who discovers that shabby bear Ernest is the best friend an open-minded mouse could ask for. Deep below snowy, cobblestone streets, tucked away in networks of winding subterranean tunnels, lives a civilization of hardworking mice, terrified of the bears that live above ground. Unlike her fellow mice, Celestine is an artist and a dreamer -- and when she nearly ends up as breakfast for ursine troubadour Ernest, the two forms an unlikely bond. But it isn't long before their friendship is put on trial by their respective bear-fearing and mice-eating communities. Featuring the voices of Forest Whitaker, Mackenzie Foy, Lauren Bacall, Paul Giamatti, William H. Macy, Megan Mullally, Nick Offerman, and Jeffrey Wright. Recommended for ages. And best of all, it’s FREE for children and families! View trailer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyU-mSUOnSs. At the United Palace, 4140 Broadway (at W. 175th St.). RSVP helpful: [email protected]. Wednesday, October 22nd, 6pm Red Carpet; 7pm screening.

Participatory Budgeting Neighborhood Assemblies Are you a resident of Washington Heights, Manhattanville, West Harlem or the Upper West Side? You can help decide how to spend $1 million of taxpayer money for community improvements to parks, schools, libraries, streets, and more. Please join NYC Councilmember Mark Levine at an upcoming Neighborhood Assembly and find out how you can be a part of this unique experience. REAL MONEY / REAL PROJECTS / REAL POWER / YOU DECIDE! Six more neighborhood assemblies: Wednesday, 10/22 @ 6:30pm at the Children’s Aid Society (885 Columbus @ E. 104th); Saturday, 10/25 @ 1pm at the Church of the Intercession (550 W. 155th St.); Tuesday, 10/28 @ 6:30pm – for non-English Speakers at the Wilson Major Morris Senior Center (459 W. 152nd St.); and Saturday, 11/8 @ noon – for Youth at the Morningside Heights Library (2900 Broadway @ W. 113th St.). To RSVP or for more information, email [email protected] or call 212-788-7007.

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email

Precinct Community Council Meetings The 33rd Precinct Community Council will meet at the Precinct, 2207 Amsterdam Ave.; 30th Pct will meet at 3333 Broadway. Wednesday, October 22nd at 7pm.

Kindergarten Fair With information from public, independent and charter schools throughout District 6 and northern Manhattan. At the YM/YWHA of Washington Heights & Inwood, 54 Nagle Ave. Thursday, October 23rd at 6pm.

Flu Shots Protect yourself from the ‘flu. Cosponsored with The Visiting Nurse Service (VNS) of New York, and all of our Uptown partners in government. Flu shots will be provided to adults as well as to children 9 and over with parental consent. The supply of flu shots is limited and appointments are recommended to guarantee your shot. FREE, but registration very helpful: 212-544-0173 / [email protected]. At the Hebrew Tabernacle, 551 Fort Washington Ave.. co-sponsored with Denny Farrell, Wednesday, October 22nd, 10am – 1pm and the Cornerstone Center (178 Bennett Ave.), Friday, October 24th, 10am – 1pm.

La Caida de Rafael Trujillo: A play about the events that led to the implosion of a ruthless dictatorship… About the Playwright: Carmen Rivera, regarded as one of the most prolific U.S. Latina playwrights, is the creative force behind box office blockbuster’s such as "Celia: The Life and Music of Celia Cruz” and "La Lupe: My Life, My Destiny.” Her play, “La Gringa,” winner of the 1996 Obie Award, is the longest running Latino show in Off Broadway history. Rivera’s work on “La Caida de Rafael Trujillo” spans over 5 dedicated years of intensive scholarship, primary research, first-person interviews, as well as source material from CUNY’s acclaimed Institute for Dominican Studies. This production will be directed by award winning director Cándido Tirado and features a formidable pan-Latino cast. For this production, noted Dominican scholar and historian José Novas has been the dramaturgical and cultural consultant and Bersaida Vega translated the play into Spanish. To buy your ticket click here: http://nomaanyc.givezooks.com/events/la-caida-de-rafael-trujillo. A wine reception and conversation with playwright and cast will follow the performance! Tickets: NoMAA Members $30; Community Friends: $75; Corporate Friends $150. At Teatro Círculo, 64 E. 4th St. Wednesday, October 22nd at 6:30pm.

Free Breast Cancer Screenings The American-Italian Cancer Foundation is offering no cost digital mammograms and clinical breast exams outside of Councilmember Mark Levine’s office. Any woman over 40 who has not been examined in the last year is eligible. For an appointment call the Councilmember’s office at 212-928-6814. Friday, October 24th.

Dominican Women's Development Center, "Celebrating Our Children" 26th Anniversary fundraiser. Honorees include NYC Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, and DWDC Fiscal Officer Niurka Rodriguez as Employee of the Year. At Maestro's Caterers, 1703 Bronxdale Ave., Bronx. But your ticket today: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/exclusive-invitation-to-our-26th-anniversary-gala-celebrating-our- children-tickets-13192566321 or call Giselle Alba, Gala Coordinator, 212-740-4335, for more information. Friday, October 24th, 6pm-7pm networking reception; 7pm dinner.

***NEXT WEEKEND*** (4 items) Join NYC Parks and MillionTrees for a Tree Stewardship Day in Inwood's Forest Over seven years have passed since the City launched MillionTreesNYC and over 903,000 trees have already been planted. Tree

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email care and stewardship are the next critical steps to ensuring that newly planted trees grow into strong, mature, trees and enhance the health and resiliency of our urban forest. Get involved in our Fall Stewardship Day and join us in caring for new forest trees by removing invasive weeds and litter, and adding mulch, at Inwood Hill Park. This is a great event for individuals and groups high school age and above. (Note: we require a 1:10 adult to student ratio for high school groups.) MillionTreesNYC will supply all tools and refreshments. We will also issue community service letters for students fulfilling service requirements. Pre-register online now: http://www.nycgovparks.org/milliontrees/fall_2014_stewardship_day. Gather at Inwood Hill Park’s Dyckman Fields. Saturday, October 25th, 9am to 1pm.

March & Rally for Housing Justice and 2015 legislative agenda. Rent regulations are due to expire on June 30th of next year. Join your neighbors in demanding stronger regulations, benefitung millions of New Yorkers living in rent-controlled and rent-stabilized apartments. There will be educational materials on how you can fight to protect, preserve and improve New York City’s housing. Rally at 3333 Broadway (at W. 135th St.); march up Broadway and St. Nicholas Ave. to IS52 (650 Academy St., just north of Dyckman). Saturday, October 25th: rally at noon; march steps off at 1pm; info fair at 3pm-5pm. To get involved, email [email protected].

Geology and History of Dyckman Street Join Sidney Horenstein, geologist and Educator Emeritus at the American Museum of Natural History, as he leads his geology and history walk along Dyckman Street, a fault line in Manhattan. Meet in front of the Payson Center on Dyckman Street and Payson Avenue. Sunday, October 26th at 10am.

“It's My Park!” Day Bulb Planting: Join the Friends Committee of the Fort Tryon Park Trust to beautify the Fort Washington slope of Fort Tryon. Plant bulbs, clear invasives, paint, and more. Wear long pants and sturdy shoes. Meet in Margaret Corbin Circle (top of Ft. Washington Ave. at Park entrance). Sunday, October 26th, 10am - 2pm.

***LOOKING AHEAD / SAVE THE DATE*** (13 items) Domestic Violence Awareness Walk & Speak-out Shine the light in Harlem. Everyone walks to the Adam Clayton Powell State Office Plaza, at W. 125th St. & AC Powell Blvd. Pick a starting point: 125th St. & St. Nicholas Ave; 135th St. & Malcolm X Blvd./Lenox Ave.; 125th St. & Fifth Ave.; 116th St. & Frederick Douglas Blvd./8th Ave. Walk begins at 5:30pm (rain or shine); purple lights @ 6pm; Speak-Out @ 6:15pm. For more information, call 646-442-3100 or visit [email protected]. Monday, October 27th.

“OUT IN THE UNION: A Labor History of Queer America” This event is not in the neighborhood, but it’s an important book by someone in the neighborhood. In “Out in the Union,” Dr. Miriam Frank, a Master Teacher of Humanities at New York University, tells the continuous story of queer American workers from the mid-1960s through 2013. This book chronicles the evolution of labor politics with queer activism and identity formation, showing how unions began affirming the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender workers in the 1970s and 1980. The evening will include excerpts read from the book,

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email discussion of new developments in labor/gay politics, copies of “Out in the Union” for purchase at a discount, light refreshments, and lots of interesting people. RSVP via email to [email protected]. At the NYU BOOKSTORE in the West Village, 726 Broadway. Wednesday, October 29th, 6pm - 7:30pm.

34th Precinct Community Council Meeting At the Columbia University Campbell Sports Complex (505 W. 218th St., between Broadway & Park Terrace East). For more information, call 212-927-0287 or email [email protected]. Wednesday, October 29th at 7pm.

Shermam Creek “Shriek Park” NYRP is currently partnering with the Parks Department, RowNY, Scribble Arts, and Word Up to host “Fall Fest as Sherman ShriekPark”. The event is free and fun for all ages, with activities – hiked, arts & crafts, edible popcorn creations, pumpkin seed tasting, fun take-aways and more, followed by a screening of the movie “Hocus Pocus.” For more information, visit www.nyrp.org/calendar. At Swindler Cove in Sherman Creek Park (at the intersection of Dyckmen St., 10th Ave., and the Harlem River Drive, just south of PS5). For more information, contact Casey Peterson: 212-333-2552 / [email protected]. Thursday, October 30th, 2:30pm – 5pm; movie at 6:15pm.

“Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia—What Have We Learned?” Come to a community forum to learn more about 25 years of research on. These informative forums explain in lay terms some of the important, cutting edge research on the major health topics of the day. FREE and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. Simultaneous Spanish translation available. At the Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavilion (1150 St. Nicholas Ave. @ W. 168th St.0, conference room #2. Please RSVP at [email protected] or 212-305-8060. Thursday, October 30th, 6pm – 8pm.

Start out your Halloween riding on our spooky carousel for free! We’re planning a small, open-to-the- public Halloween party around our “Totally Kid” carousel (designed by schoolchildren). Come dressed as your favorite character and ride on one of our favorite “animals!” Free treats! Games! Goody bags! Best costume prizes! For children 3 to 12. (We realize it’s a school day, but this event is open to young families, and homeschoolers as well.) Music by DJ Alexi B. No reservations needed, unless you’d like to send a class of young ‘uns, then you need to call or email Pat Vitucci (212-694-3656 / [email protected]). At Riverbank State Park, W. 145th Street at Riverside Drive. Friday, October 31st, 10am – noon.

The Halloween Hang with Gary Lucas returns to the Palace with the world premiere of his new solo guitar score for the original "Frankenstein." Last year Gary wowed the Palace audience with his score for the Spanish “Dracula.” During the audience Q&A that followed a guest asked if he would consider creating a musical soundtrack for the 1931 "Frankenstein" starring Boris Karloff and directed by James Whale. Gary spent the last year perfecting his new vision and will debut it live at the Palace. Before the movie there will be a costume parade across the stage and other Halloween shenanigans. For more information and tickets please visit:http://unitedpalace.org/events/525-gary-lucas-performs-the-world- premiere-of-his-new-score-for-frankenstein. $10 online/$15 at the box office (opens at 5pm); $5 for children under 12. For more information, email [email protected] or call 212-568-6700 x41. Friday, October 31st: doors open at 6:30; costume parade at 7pm; movie at 8pm; Q&A with Gary follows at 9:20.

Parent Conference: Road Map to College Sponsored by the Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons. Open to parents, guardians and community members. FREE! Register online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/2014ParentConference. In the Hammer Health Science Center, 701 W. 168th

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email St. @ Haven Ave., Room 401. For more information, call 212-305-4157 or email [email protected]. Saturday, November 1st, 8:30am – 2pm.

MASQUERADE: Night of the Living Composers & Dead Poet Society As a thank you to our gracious host, Pied Piper Children’s Theatre invites you a fundraiser to benefit the Holy Trinity Church. Featuring live performances of new works by New York composers, dramatic poetry readings of works by Edgar Allan Poe, and an illuminating tale of the historical roots of All Hallow’s Eve given by The Reverend Rebecca Barnes. The evening will also include a silent auction featuring some pretty terrific items. All profits will go to benefit the general operating budget of Holy Trinity Church, which generously supports and encourages our artistic communities here in Inwood. In the Church’s theatre space, 20 Cumming Street (between Broadway & Seaman Ave.) Ticket info coming soon. Saturday, November 1st, beginning at 6pm (auction), 7pm (entertainment)

Go Lions: Tickets Available for CU Football Tickets available on a first-come/first-served basis to northern Manhattan residents (10032, 10033, 10040, 10034 & Marble Hill section of 10463). Free! At Baker Field (218th St. just west of Broadway). Please email [email protected] for ticket information. Saturday, November 1st (v. Yale) & November 15th (v. Cornell), kick-off at 12:30pm.

Inwood Pumpkin Pageant Want to show off you skills, help the environment and help build a new community tradition? Drop off your carved pumpkins along the path in Isham Park anytime on November 1st. We will light them up at dusk for one last glorious display before sending them to NYRP’s compost heap at Swindler Cover. Prizes will be awarded! Email [email protected] for more information or to volunteer. Saturday, November 1st, 5pm-8pm.

Don’t Forget to “Fall Back”! Get back that hour of sleep you’ve been missing since March. Set your clocks back an hour to Standard Time at 2am (turns to 1am) on Sunday, November 2nd.

***EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES*** (5 items) Fall ’14 Harlem Adult Education Conference: "Empowering, Building, Connecting" Designed to address the needs and interests of adult-education instructors, learners, and program administrators affiliated with Harlem-based programs, the conference will feature solution-oriented workshops on key topics in the field of adult education. Help strengthen and expand Harlem's adult-education network through peer-to-peer exchanges of instructional strategies, tools, and research. Hosted by the Harlem YMCA Literacy Zone at the Jackie Robinson Center (181 W. 135th St., btw 7th & Lenox Aves.) All participants must register in advance: www.bitly.com/harlemadulted. Questions? Please email [email protected]. Friday, November 7th, 9am – 3pm.

Want to learn English? The Y will continue to offer free ESL classes for the community this fall. Classes are every Tuesday and Thursday and start November 11th. Both intermediate(3pm-5pm) and advanced (1pm-3pm) levels offered. At the YM&YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood (54 Nagle Ave.)Call our front desk (ext. 200) to register. Registration must be received by October 28th.

Y Beginnings Parenting Center for new and expectant parents The Y Beginnings Parenting Center is a new initiative that focuses on families who are expecting and those with newborns, babies and toddlers, up to 2 years of age. Y Beginnings will offer fun, enriching and educational opportunities for new and expectant parents and their children. Some of the programming that we will offer to families includes:

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email Childbirth education classes; infant and child CPR; breastfeeding support; prenatal and parent-and-child yoga; music and playtime; play groups to promote cognitive development; evening workshops; new mothers and new fathers support groups; preschool prep program for 2 year olds; Jewish culture and celebration. Visit our website (http://www.ywashhts.org/y-beginnings-parenting-center-0) for more information and our Fall schedule, or contact Kelly at:[email protected].

Dyckman Institute Scholarships for WH/I High School students interested in attending Columbia University. CU encourages all outstanding HS seniors from WH/I to apply for admission to Columbia College or the FU Foundation School of Engineering & Applied Sciences. There are over 300 individually- named need-based scholarships available to Columbia students. One of these, the Dyckman Institute Scholarship, provides financial support exclusively to students from Washington Heights/Inwood who would not otherwise be able to afford the full cost of attending Columbia. Las year 18 undergraduate students from WH/I received $739k in need-based scholarships from Columbia Collage & SEAS. HS students from WH/I may learn more about CU and the Dyckman Institute Scholarship by contacting the Undergraduate Admissions Office at 212-854-2522 or visiting http://undergrad.admissions.columbia.edu/.

2015 High School Internship – Manhattan DA’s Office The NY County District Attorney’s High School internship program is a rigorous six-week internship that provides students with an insider’s view of the criminal justice system and law enforcement. Every intern is assigned to a unit within the office and helps Assistant District Attorneys and other staff members with their work. Interns also attend presentations and trips and prepare for a mock trial competition. Open to Manhattan residents only; must be a rising junior or senior (i.e., currently a sophomore or junior); must commit to attend entirety of program from July 6, 2015 – August 14, 2015, Monday-Friday, 9am – 4:30pm. Email completed application to [email protected]: include completed form, proof of address, current resume, essay of 500 words or less, and a letter of recommendation for school. For more information call Denise Liriano (212-335-3055) or Jennifer Cariño (212-335-9064). Applications due Friday March 27th.

***JOBS & VOCATIONAL TRAINING*** (5 items) CUNY in the Heights Division of Continuing Education & Workforce Development Lots of affordable and convenient classes, many of which can be taken individually or as part of a certificate program. Classes include computer training (graphic design, code development, InDesign, social media for business, etc.), certification courses for Personal Fitness Trainer, Teacher Assistant, Security Guard; Healthcare Certification (CNA, CPR/AED, ECG/EKG, phlebotomy, Pharmacy Tech, Dental Assistant, Dialysis Tech, medical billing/coding specialist, Spanish for Medical Professionals); Education & Language Arts (including SAT prep, ESL, GED and more); enrichment programs; Saturday “College for Kids” offering both academic and cultural enrichment, and much, much more! At 5030 Broadway, btw. W. 213th / W. 214th Streets. Call 212-567-7132, email [email protected] or visit www.cunyintheheights.com for scheduling information.

Youth Workforce Development Programs through the Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation. NMIC’s programs are FREE opportunities for advancing the educational and occupational skills of disengages young adults.  Young Adult Internship Program: The Young Adult Internship Program (YAIP) serves young adults aged 17-24 who are unemployed and not in school. YAIP's goal is to prepare participants

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email for the workforce through job readiness training and a paid internship in an area of individual interest. For more information, call 212-453-5381 / 212-453-5366 / 212-453-5394.  YouthBuild: YouthBuild is a program for Out-of-School youth (ages 17-24) who do not have a High School Diploma or GED/HSE. Participants will receive High School Equivalency Instruction, Construction Apprentice Training, and Leadership Development. Job placement assistance will be provided upon completion of the program. For more information, call 212-453-5381 / 212- 822-8355. Deadline 10/20 for classes beginning at the end of October.  Youth Empowered To Succeed (YES): The Youth Empowered To Succeed (YES) program for Out- of-School Youth (OSY) at NMIC serves young adults aged 16-21 who are not connected to school or work and need assistance in upgrading their occupational skills. Participants receive Construction Training (HBI PACT & OSHA 10 hr) and job placement assistance upon completion of the program. For more information, call 212-453-5399 / 212-453-5381 / 212-822-8355.

School Crossing Guard applications available at the 34th Precinct. $9.88 to start, $12.90/hour after 3 years of service. Health benefits (with 20+ hours worked per week.) No formal education but candidates must be able to understand and be understood in English. Please call 212-927-0287 for more information.

Join New York’s Strongest! The filing period for Sanitation Workers is now open. Here’s your chance to help the Big Apple shine. Great pay and benefits; great advancement opportunities. You must apply for a written test. Submit an application on the Online Application System at www.nyc.gov/examsforjobs, or stop by the Manhatta DCAS Computer-based Testing and Applications Centers (Two Lafayette St., 17th fl.) Mon-Sat, 9am - 5pm. The exam will take place in February 2015 (exact date TBA). The application fee is $47.00 and due at the time an applicant files for the written test. Yes, you must be at least 17 1/2 years of age by the end of the application period to take this examination. You must be at least 21 years old to be appointed as a Sanitation worker. Registration open through October 31st.

***HEALTH, RECREATION & FITNESS*** (13 items) Do you or your family need health insurance? In-person assistance in English and Spanish for Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and NYC Qualified plans. At Nomaa Arts, 178 Bennett Ave. 3rd floor. For more information, call 212-233-8955 ext.127. Every Tuesday, 1pm - 6pm

Awesome Asana Yoga in The Heights with the "Localize Yoga" Project. Vinyasa Flow Yoga Classes with in the Drawing Room at Morris Jumel Mansion. Bring a mat if you have one. $5 donation asked for class goes to support the public park and historic landmark. Donation also gets students free same-day access to the museum. Join/follow our growing Yoga Tribe for class info/updates at facebook.com/awesomeasana. Thursdays & Sundays, 1pm-2pm for adults; Wednesdays, 8pm & Saturdays, 10:30am-11am for Family Yoga at Small Idea (570 W 159th St, 1st Floor).

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email Ongoing Weekly Fitness, Health & Lifestyle Programs at Isabella:  Fitness Gets Personal: Mondays, 11am – noon (Recreation Hall)  Tai Chi: Tuesdays, 9:30 am – 10:45 am (525 Audubon Ave., Room 1412)  La Salud Mental y el Bienestar: Miércoles de 9:30 am – 10:45 am. Únase a este grupo de apoyo para obtener la salud mental que usted necesita. Se requiere un compromiso de 12 semanas. (525 Audubon Ave., 1er Piso. Marketing Conference Room.) Es necesario inscribirse.  Walking Works Wonders: Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays, 8am – 9am (Rec. Hall)  Well-Seasoned: A City Harvest Cooking Class: Thursdays (10/9-11/13), 9:30am – 11:30am. Well- Seasoned is a FREE cooking course for low-income, older adults focused on basic nutrition, physical activity, cooking and budgeting. Space is limited to 20 participants for the duration of the 6 week course. Enrollment is a must. (525 Audubon Ave., Room 1412)  Mental Health and Wellness Group: Fridays (beginning 9/26), 9:30am – 10:45am. Join this support group as a continuation of the “How to Control Your Life” series. Vonalis Pina will continue weekly discussions on how to better manage daily stresses in a more intimate setting. A 12 week commitment is required. Light breakfast will be provided. (525 Audubon Avenue, 1st floor Marketing Conference Room.) All classes at 515 Audubon Ave. @ W. 190th St., unless otherwise noted. For more information and to register, call Marilyn Pacheco at 212-342-9224 – Se habla Español

American Diabetes Association Lecture Series At the Allen Hospital Thayer Conference Room B 1CW-003, 5141 Broadway at W. 220th St. FREE and open to all. Space is limited. Call HealthOutreach at 212-932- 5844 to register/reserve. Light refreshment will be served.  Why Checking Your Blood Glucose Is the Key, Monday, October 20th, 1pm – 2pm.  Risk Control for Heart Attack and Stroke, Tuesday, October 21st, 1pm – 2pm.  The Lowdown on Diabetes and Depression, Wednesday, October 22nd, 2pm – 3pm.  How to Limit the Damage Diabetes Can Do, Tuesday, November 4th, 1pm – 2pm.  More on How to Limit the Damage Diabetes Can Do, Monday, November 10th, 1pm – 2pm.

Easier-to-Access Services for Older Adults The YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood (WHIY) has collaborated with the Riverdale YM-YWHA, the Jewish Community Council of Washington Heights and Inwood, and the Hebrew Home at Riverdale to form a unique partnership called The Hudson Community Project: Safe at Home. It combines our agencies’ resources, expands the geographic scope of our services-and streamlines the way we provide them. The result – older adults can receive a more comprehensive selection of services aimed at helping you maintain your independence and make living at home more comfortable and secure. Some of our services include: case management, housing advocacy, kosher food pantry and meals, social adult day care, in-home support, health maintenance, rehabilitation, transportation. For more information, please contact Sarah Leiner, MSW at 212-569-6200 x 233.

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email FREE Fitness for NYC Seniors The CityParks Seniors Fitness welcomes all New Yorkers ages 60 and over to participate in free tennis lessons, yoga instruction, and fitness walking in parks across the city. Activities in this eight-week fitness program take place twice a week. CityParks Seniors Fitness aims to keep neighborhood parks a great place for community activity. Even in moderate amounts, exercise can help us feel better, maintain or lose weight, reduce risk of heart disease and diabetes, and minimize the symptoms of arthritis. No matter how old we are, our bodies always benefit from physical activity. Visit http://www.cityparksfoundation.org/sports/seniors-fitness/ or call 718-760-6999 for more information and to register.

Saturday Night Lights Weekend Professional Sports Training and weekday academic support for kids ages 11- 18. Drill & Play (Basketball) at George Washington High School (549 Audubon Ave. at W. 192nd St.) Saturdays, 5pm – 7pm and 7pm – 9pm. & Manhattanville Community Center (530 W. 133rd St. btw Amsterdam Ave/B’way). Fridays, 5pm – 7pm & 7pm – 9pm. AllStarr Volleyball at the PAL Armory (218 Ft. Washington Ave., enter on W. 169th St.), Saturdays, 5pm – 7pm & 7pm – 9pm. For information call 212.678.0647 or visit www.manhattanda.org/saturday-night-lights.

Take a Small Step Toward Living Healthier Our popular free zumba, yoga, cooking demos and health education are at a new location! Community League of the Heights will be hosting classes out of its partner school, Community Health Academy, located at 504 W. 158th Street. Check out the full schedule at the new location, learn more about the great activities and sign up today! Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation, Community League of the Heights, Inwood Community Services, Inc. and EmblemHealth are pleased bring you twelve weeks of classes to help you stay healthy, get well and live better.  Zumba: Tuesdays & Thursdays through December 9th / 11th, 6:15pm-7:15pm  Yoga: Mondays & Wednesdays through December 8th / 10th, 6:15pm - 7:15 pm  Cooking Classes: Fridays through November 14th, 6pm – 8pm To sign-up visit http://emblemhealthlivehealthy.com/ or call 1-877-444-3674 for a full schedule of classes.

October is Substance Abuse Prevention Month. According to national data, 70% of teenagers have tried alcohol by aged 18. Here in Washington Heights, Inwood & Marble Hill, according to a recent study of youth drinking habits and attitudes by the UNIDOS Coalition, 40% of our 12th graders had consumed alcohol within the past 30 days. To learn more about alcohol and substance abuse in young people – both its effects and prevention – visit the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration at http://www.samhsa.gov/ or the New York State Office of Alcoholism & Substance Abuse Services at www.oasas.ny.gov.

The Cornerstone Chorale is Now Auditioning Choral Singers of All Voice Types Cornerstone Chorale is a community chorus in the Washington Heights/Inwood neighborhood. The chorus rehearses on Monday nights in season and performs several concerts annually. New members welcome! For more information or to arrange for an audition, please call Richard Stout, Musical Director, 212-795-5738. For more information, visit www.cornerstonechoralenyc.org.

No-Cost Breast Cancer Screening The American-Italian Cancer Foundation’s (AICF) mobile provides mammograms and clinical breast exams to uninsured and medically underserved New York City women over the age of 40 who have not had a mammogram in the past year. Services are at no cost to patients: no co-pays required and deductibles are waived; uninsured patients welcome. Coming soon to the office

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email of NYC Councilmember Mark Levine: 500 W. 141st St. Early detection of breast cancer saves lives! Friday, October 24th, 10am – 12:30pm. To schedule an appointment please call 877-628-9090.

Substance Abuse Prevention Month: What is Hookah? A hookah is a water pipe used to pass charcoal heated air through a tobacco mixture and ultimately through a water-filled chamber. The charcoal or burning embers are places on top of a perforated aluminum foil and the tobacco mixture placed below. The user inhales the water-filtered smoke through a tube and mouthpiece. Hookah use carries many of the same health risks as cigarette smoking. Hookah smoking appears to be associated with lung cancer, respiratory disease and low birthweight in babies. Chanes measured in the amount of air moved in and out of the lungs when smokers breathe suggest that igarette smoking and hookah smoking have similar effects on a person’s breathing. The combination of charcoal and tobacco is unique to hookah smaling and the charcoal has its own set of healtheffects in addition to the health effects associated with tobacco use. {Info provided by the UNIDOS Coalition; for more information, Coalition Coordinator, email Hannah Tejeda, at [email protected] or Steering Chair, Denise Hykes, at [email protected].

***HOW YOU CAN HELP*** (9 items) Manhattan Family Justice Center Domestic Violence Awareness Month Drive Donate non-perishable foods, new & gently used clothing, toys, strollers, car seats, baby formula, diapers, new & gently used multilingual books. All donations go to people in need. Drop off donations @ 80 Centre St. 5th floor Civil side reception area of the DANY Special Victims Bureau, DANY Northern Manhattan Office (163 W. 125th St.) or 5030 Broadway in the main lobby or the 6th floor employee lunch room. Now through October 31st.

Apply now to be a TEP READING BUDDY, a new after-school program designed for TEP 5th graders. Reading Buddies are matched with a 5th grade student, and read together from 4pm-5pm, two afternoons each week at TEP. Washington Heights community members are strongly encouraged to apply!! Reading Buddies are paid $15/hour. (We also accept volunteers!). We are looking to recruit strong and enthusiastic readers who can commit 2 days/week for the entire school year. (English fluency is required). Click here for the online application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1cMFEF_m9EDImD5shfS5e3l-RCcRY-uM8uBdlk41Djpc/viewform. For more information, contact David Weinreb: 646-254-6451 / [email protected].

Immigrant Women Business Survey through the Women’s Chamber of Commerce I believe you must be very busy with your business but would you spare only 15-20 minutes of your time to participate in a survey targeting immigrant women business owners in New York City? In return, you can win a dinner for two worth $100 at Pera Midtown (http://peranyc.com) (5 out of 100 participants with a completed survey will win this gift through lottery). I will also be happy to share the results of my survey with you at NY Women's Chamber of Commerce. If you would like to contribute to your community, you can take the survey at the following link (https://rutgers.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_7OFyN0ozIBm1ya9) until October 15th. You can start the survey now and go back to your answers at any time until this date. Your participation is very important and valuable, and we really appreciate your help and time.

A Gentle Reminder from the SONOS Orchestra Imagine the beloved music and story of The Nutcracker transformed to Washington Heights, where the music is traditional Tchaikovsky, but the dance on stage is performed by 12 hip hop dancers. 31 members of the SONOS Chamber Orchestra will be performing in the orchestra pit, while a live DJ and an electric violinist perform live onstage. Thanks to the

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email generosity of 18 funders now, we are up to $2,115 in our Indiegogo campaign for A few people have asked me about the Hip Hop aspect. SONOS will be performing the complete Tchaikovsky classical music score in a reduced orchestration for 31 orchestra musicians. There will also be a DJ and an electronic violinist who perform periodically during the show, mostly during scene changes. Decadance Theater Company specializes in performing hip hop dance to Classical music! But we can only make this happen with your support! Not someone else's --- yours! Thanks in advance for donations of any size: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/give-hip-hop-nutcracker-life-with-a-live-orchestra.

The Consortium of NY Geriatric Education Centers’ survey is still open! Please take a moment to tell us about your training and education needs. Click on this survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/geriatrics_training. You may have experienced a glitch that impeded completion of the survey. This problem was corrected. If you started the survey previously but couldn't complete it, you now can.

The RING needs you! Starting this weekend, from 2-5 pm, Alison will lead volunteers in clearing a pretty big section of an invasive weed that's strangling everything in sight. This involves digging and sifting of soil mainly. Once that is done, we can arrange some decorative rocks and introduce new plants. This will go on for 4 weeks. No need to reserve a spot; just come and we will get you started. We also need to test our hoses to see which ones need replacing. And, Fall always involves raking of leaves. We have rakes and reusable bags. It will be good to put as many as we can into available leaf storage and compost space.... soooo... the left compost bin needs sifting NOW! Sifting is easy. Come by when we have a volunteer day and we'll show you how. For more information, email [email protected].

13th Annual Harvest Festival This year marks the 13th Annual Harvest Festival. Originally held in Bennett Park, it's been held in Ft. Tryon Park at the Cafe Lawn for the past several years. This event is a huge family festival, with games, live music, pie contest, scarecrow contest. We are now reaching out to the community to help with cleanup starting at 4pm. Many of the event volunteers will have been working from 8am or even earlier, so it's great to have fresh hands at 4 to help with the cleanup. Definitely stop by earlier if you like, this is a free community event. Please also bring a donation of canned goods to benefit Fresh Youth Initiative's Helping Hands Food Pantry, a youth-run food pantry serving home-bound seniors and working poor. Saturday, October 18th (Cleanup needed 4pm-5pm); event runs 1pm – 4pm. Rain date: Sunday, October 19th. Contact Sarah Louise Lilley ([email protected]) to sign up.

9th Annual Halloween Parade Another homegrown community event that has grown out of its Bennett Park roots and now starts at W. 187th St. & Cabrini Blvd. and parades into Ft. Tryon's Linden Terrace. We need many more volunteers this year on the Park Department's request. If you can volunteer this year, we definitely need crowd control from 5:30pm - 6:30pm at W. 187th & Ft. Washington Ave., and at W. 190th and Ft. Washington Ave. Friday, October 31st from 5:30pm - 8-ish. . Please email Helena Rincon at [email protected] if you can help.

The Nagle Ave. “Y” Needs Volunteers! The Y believes that everyone has something to contribute to the agency. There are growing opportunities for volunteers to be involved in the multitude of dynamic programs and services available to the community. why not consider becoming a volunteer? It's a rewarding way to share your skills and interests with others. Currently, we have positions available for lobby greeters and nursery assistants. Please email Zoe Becker ([email protected]) or Kamali Wrappah ([email protected]) in the Volunteer Department, or call 212-569-6200 x234 for more information about these positions or to discuss any other interests you may have. There’s a place for you at the Y.

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email

***TRANSIT & TRANSPORTATION *** (3 items) DDC Reconstruction Work in Plaza de las Americas Please be advised that on Thursday, October 2 2014, The New York City Department of Design and Construction (NYCDDC) will begin a capital re-construction project of Plaza De Las Americas, weather and field conditions permitting. The purpose of this project is to fully reconstruct the plaza with amenities including, lighting, benches, tree plantings, decorative paving, drinking fountain, automatic public toilet, and public art work element. Work will also include installation of water mains and service connections; installation of catch basins; curbs and sidewalks; street lighting, traffic signal work and roadway resurfacing. Work will be performed on W. 175th Street between St. Nicholas Ave. and Broadway, with new Plaza construction: W. 175th St. between Broadway & Wadsworth Ave. DDC is committed to maintaining a work site that is safe and clean. However, dust, noise and heavy equipment are common elements of construction and we ask for your patience during the project. In order to facilitate the construction, there may be limited street access on certain blocks. However, deliveries to commercial/residential properties and emergency vehicle access will be allowed. Please contact the Community Construction Liaison to coordinate. Allowable work hours are Monday through Friday 7:00am to 6:00pm and Saturdays 8:00am to 4:00pm. However, no Saturday(s) work is anticipated at this time. Advanced notification will be given if construction is necessary on Saturday(s). Please email Ms. Laura Rivera ([email protected]) for further information. During non- construction hours, please call 311 and mention Project ID# HWPLZ009M.

DoT Announces Phase I of the Washington Heights Bicycle Network This phase will run north on Amsterdam Avenue from W. 162nd Street to Ft. George Avenue and down Ft. George Hill. In some areas the markings will involve the removal of one travel lane in each direction and installation of left turn bays where feasible. We are also installing bike lanes on W. 177th & W. 180th Streets. We hope to begin the work very soon. The plan was presented to Community Board 12 in April and the Board passed a resolution of support. A copy of the presentation can be found online here: http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/bicyclists/bike-projects.shtml under “Washington Heights Bicycle Network, Phase I”.

W. 215th Street Step-street Construction Schedule The following is an anticipated work schedule for the upcoming week: formwork for stairs and landing area by Park Terrace East; pouring stairs and landing area; build Manhole #4. Note: due to unforeseen field and weather conditions, it may become necessary to change some scheduled work operations and dates. Please note, parking will continue to be restricted in the work area. For further information, call Tanya Pazmino, the Community Construction Liaison at 646-649-2915 or email [email protected]. Week of October 13th – 18th, 7am-5pm weekedays; 8am-4pm weekends (Saturdays only).

***LOANS, GRANTS, CONTESTS & AWARDS*** (5 items) WHIDC Offers Free Legal Services to its Micro-business Clients The Washington Heights & Inwood Development Corporation (WHIDC), a local not-for-profit organization serving the economic development needs of Upper Manhattan since 1978, announces a new partnership with Volunteers of Legal Services and the law firm of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP to provide pro bono legal services to WHIDC's micro-business clients in Manhattan north of 96th Street and in the western Bronx. These free services will include reviews of commercial leases, assistance with business incorporations

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email and partnerships, trademark, intellectual property, and other legal issues related to small businesses. These legal services augment WHIDC’s existing roster of business development activities, including one- on-one technical assistance, classroom training and direct business loans in amounts of up to $50,000. Those interested in the services WHIDC provides may call 212-795-1600 and ask to speak to one of our business counselors or send an e-mail request to [email protected].

Citizens Committee for NYC’s Neighborhood Grants award micro-grants of up to $3,000 to resident-led groups to work on community and school improvement projects throughout the city. They prioritize groups based in low income neighborhoods and Title I public schools. Recent awards have enabled neighbors to come together to make healthy food available in their communities, transform empty lots into community gardens, organize tenants to advocate for better housing conditions, and start school recycling drives. Info: Arif Ullah at [email protected] or Wilfredo Florentino at [email protected], or call 212-822-9580/9568. Deadline: January 27th, 2015.

Looking for Ways to Beautify Your Block, Bring Together Neighbors, and Build Community? The Citizens Committee for NYC together with NYC Service announces the “Love Your Block” Grant Program. These grants fund beautification projects of up to $,1000 for volunteer-led neighborhood groups working to improve the quality of their neighborhoods while leveraging City services. Recent awards have enabled neighbors to revitalize and beautify neighborhoods by bringing communities and City agencies together to work toward a common vision of a better city, block by block. Grantees will received city services from the NYC Departments of Parks & Recreation, Transportation and/or Sanitation. In 2014, 25 groups were awarded grants of $1,000 to complete a block beautification project. Info: Imani Brown, Project Coordinator, [email protected] / 212-822-9567. Deadline: November 7th.

Pinnacle Settlement Legal Help Project - Extension of Filing Deadline The Pinnacle Settlement Legal Help Project is jointly run by The Legal Aid Society and Legal Services NYC. As part of the settlement of a class action lawsuit against the landlord PinnacleGroup for the rent overcharge and harassment of over 31,000 tenants citywide, our agencies are offering free legal services to current and former Pinnacle tenants regardless of income to help them submit and prosecute damages claims against Pinnacle as well as insure compliance with new rules designed to protect the Pinnacle tenants. The deadline to file claims has been extended from October 27th to December 31, 2014. If you have any questions, please call our office, 212-544-0173, or 888-736-8115 for further assistance.

Venus/Adonis Festival 2015 now accepting submissions! (NY & NJ only, please.) The Venus/Adonis Festival is a playwright’s contest designed to offer writers a chance to direct their own shows, helping them to develop a sense of casting, staging, use of lights and direction. With Venus/Adonis, it is our intention to give writers a chance to create their vision from the first stroke of their pen to the last scene of their play. All genres of shows are welcome. Submissions must be between 30 and 90 minutes long. If your show has already had a run in theaters or other festivals, you can still participate, but only with a completely new cast and crew. Venus/Adonis is not only a festival; it’s a competition as well for Best Play ($2,500 prize); Best Actor, Actress & Director ($500 each); and Best Original Play ($200). There is NO submission fee; if selected, a modest participation fee covers a five-hour tech rehearsal; access to a professional lighting and sound system, and props; free box office management; storage for your props and set pieces; use of a piano; and much more! Plays are considered on a first-come/first-served basis, so the earlier you submit, the better are your chances of being invited to participate. For more information, visit http://venusnytheaterfestival.com/. Deadline is December 24th, though submissions may close earlier if we reach the maximum number of plays our festival can hold.

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email

***GENERAL INFORMATION, ONGOING EVENTS & NEWS-YOU-CAN-USE*** (4 items) Beware of the Latest ConEd Scam! Some Con Edison customers have been receiving phone calls from an ‘impostor’ claiming to be from Con Edison’s Disconnection Team and asking for money to prevent their services from being disconnected. Con Edison does not have a “Disconnection Team”, “Service & Repair”, “Relay Service”, “Special Needs Department,” “Financial Care,” or “Credit Service” department. Should you or your neighbor(s) receive such a call, do NOT provide any caller claiming to be from Con Edison’s Disconnection team with any account information!

Add back in in October/November for a couple of rotations, then again in Jan: Citizens Committee for NYC Neighborhood Grants awards micro-grants of up to $3,000 to resident-led groups to work on community and school improvement projects throughout the city. They prioritize groups based in low income neighborhoods and Title I public schools. Recent awards have enabled neighbors to come together to make healthy food available in their communities, transform empty lots into community gardens, organize tenants to advocate for better housing conditions, and start school recycling drives. Info: Arif Ullah at [email protected] or Wilfredo Florentino at 212-822-9580 or -9568. / [email protected]. DEADLINE: January 27th, 2015.

Powering Your Home with Alternative Energy You Can Choose New York Wind +/or Solar Power! Following deregulation almost two decades ago, New Yorkers can purchase electricity through many providers other than Con Edison. Many of these providers use clean, renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, rather than polluting fossil fuels. This innovative way of enabling New Yorkers to consume alternative green energy sources requires some understanding and research. Here is what you need to know about how an Energy Service Company can be beneficial to you AND the environment.

An Energy Service Company (ESCO) is simply an alternative provider of energy. While the power is still delivered to your building through ConEd’s underground distribution network, the power is generated by an ESCO using conventional or alternative energy sources. There are many different ESCOs that come with various rates and methods of energy measurement. Because each company may not use the same type of energy source many may charge a monthly, semi-annual, annual or rate depending on the contract.

The state of New York has provided a safe search engine to research and pick out the best energy provider for you: http://www.askpsc.com/askpsc/page/?PageAction=renderPageById&PageId=7f285010bbcba432023515 7257b2dc82. It should also be noted that Con Edison does offer an alternative energy service which is charged to your bill monthly as a separate expense. When choosing an ESCO always make sure to speak to the company directly and to get answers to all of your questions before making any commitments. With the help of the State of New York and a little research on your own, finding the right kind of provider for you should be easy and secure.

New Step in Managed Long Term Care (MLTC) Enrollment: Conflict-Free Eligibility & Enrollment Center (CFEEC) Anyone approved for Medicaid after October 1st, 2014 in Manhattan or the Bronz who is seeking managed long term care will need to first contact the New York Medicaid Choice and request a Conflict- Free Eligibility & Enrollment (CFEEC) assessment. If that assessment – conducted by a nurse in the client’s home, hospital or nursing home – finds the person eligible for MLTC, then the person can enroll

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email in an MLTC plan. The federal Medicaid agency, CMS, requires this “conflict-free” assessment to eliminate the conflict of interest when MLTC plans decide who is eligible for MLTC. A scandal erupted in 2012 when MLTC plans were enrolling people recruited to social adult day care programs who did not need home care at all, costing the Medicaid program millions of dollars. Now the CFEEC will deny elgibility to people who do not need Medicaid personal care. People who just need housekeepoing service, not assistance with personal care, are not eligible for MLTC and can apply for Medicaid housekeeping at their local Medicaid office. This independent assessment is also intended to prevent MLTC plans from rejecting high-need customers. MLTC plans may not accept an enrollment without confirmation from the CFEEC that the patient is MLTC-eligibile. That confirmation is valid for 60 days. Click here for an FAQ for more information: http://www.health.ny.gov/health_care/medicaid/redesign/docs/2014-09-29_cfeec_faqs.pdf.

Overnight temperatures are turning cold; know your rights for “Heat Season,” which began October 1st. The NYC Housing Maintenance Code and State Multiple Dwelling Law requires building owners to provide heat and hot water to all tenants. Building owners are required to provide hot water 365 days per year at a constant minimum temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Between October 1st and May 31st, a period designated as "Heat Season," building owners are also required to provide tenants with heat under the following conditions:  Between the hours of 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM, if the outside temperature falls below 55 degrees, the inside temperature is required to be at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit; and,  Between the hours of 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM, if the temperature outside falls below 40 degrees, the inside temperature is required to be at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Tenants who are cold in their apartments should first attempt to notify the building owner, managing agent or superintendent. If heat is not restored, the tenant should call NYC311 Customer Contact Center (311 can be accessed outside of New York City by dialing (212) NEW YORK) or using http://www1.nyc.gov/311/. The Center is open 24-hours a day, seven-days a week. (You may also file a complaint online for heat and hot water conditions.)

***LG/USA PALISADES UPDATE*** (4 items) There are two great new resources for information about the Palisades:  Staff members of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission have developed several illustrated talks about various aspects of Palisades history. PIPC staffers will come to your organization's meeting to speak. For more information about these modules, visit: http://www.njpalisades.org/offsite.html.

 The Palisades Parks Conservancy recently made a dramatic 9-minute video, Perils to the Palisades; link to it here: http://vimeo.com/user26683174/perils-of-the-palisades. (The same video with Korean subtitles can be found here: https://vimeo.com/98461301.)

If you have some time to spare, please join the public education efforts which have been tremendously effective over the last several weeks. Ft. Tryon Park Trust is generously allowing us to use their table and we will provide flyers. Below are dates and hours that we need volunteers. Erica Ilton is coordinating this effort; please RSVP to her directly: [email protected].  Saturday October 18th, 11:30am - 3:30pm for the Harvest Festival in Fort Tryon Park. About 1000 adults come out for this with their kids. The Fort Tryon Park Trust has a table at the park entrance to direct Cloisters Visitors to the Cloisters and Harvest Festival folks to the Cafe Lawn

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email  Sunday November 16th, noon - 3pm for the Battle of Fort Washington commemorative event on Fort Tryon Park's Cafe Lawn. Attended by 500+ adults.

And please: help spread the word about LG's development and its threat to the historical and landmarked Palisades. Keep this in mind when you make consumer choices regarding cell phones, TVs and other household appliances. SIGN the petition on our website: www.protectthepalisades.org. There are already more than 6,000 signatures; let yours be one of them! And if you haven’t already done so, write a letter to CEO Bon-Joon Koo and ask others to do the same. For more ways to help protect the Palisades, please visit our Take Action page.

The Palisades Meetup-Cleanup meets on the first Sunday of every month at Ross Dock, where they assemble to clean up the trash on the trails and picnic grounds. This is a joint effort between the Palisades Interstate Park and the Appalachian Mountain Club. For more information, visit www.njpalisades.org. Sunday, November 1st, 10am – 1pm.

------Elizabeth Lorris Ritter Community Liaison State Senator Adriano Espaillat, 31st SD 5030 Broadway, Suite 701 NYC 10034 (212) 544-0173 (ph) (212) 544-0256 (fx)

Contact Liz Ritter at [email protected] to receive updates via email