New Orleans Neighborhoods Partnership Network

Two finalists remain in the NOLA Wise Neighborhood Energy Challenge!

1. Hollygrove Neighbors
2. Mid City Volleyball Group and Mid City Neighborhood Organizations

You can still earn points for either team by having a Home Performance Evaluation (HPE) completed by March 31st. The team with the most HPEs by that date will win $5000 from Global Green to put towards the neighborhood’s proposed greening project!

Proposed Greening Projects
Hollygrove Neighbors: “Spruce Up Your Block” initiative, neighborhood clean up and beautification
Mid City: Sand volleyball venue along Bayou St. John

The competition is tight!
Call 504-523-WISE (9473)
or visit http://www.nolawise.org today!*

*Make sure to mention what team you are signing up with. You do not need to live within the neighborhood boundaries to earn points for that team.

Competition is stiff in the NOLA Wise Neighborhood Energy Challenge!

NOLA Wise has challenged neighborhood teams to see who can have the most Home Performance Evaluations (HPE) completed within their boundaries. The winning neighborhood will receive $5000 to put towards a neighborhood greening project. HPEs will be tallied until March 31st, and the winning neighborhood will be announced mid-April.

All homeowners who complete a home energy retrofit through the NOLA Wise program, including those located outside of Neighborhood Challenge team boundaries, are eligible for a limited-time-only $750 cash back incentive.

Contact NOLA Wise to sign up for a Home Performance Evaluation and learn how your house can start saving energy and money, and help your neighborhood to reach its greening goals!

504-523-WISE (9473), , or http://www.nolawise.org

Participating Neighborhood Challenge teams:
Mid City Volleyball Group and Mid City Neighborhood Organization (Mid City)
Hollygrove Neighbors
Villages of the East Coalition (VEC)

Talk about some healthy competition! Your neighborhood can start off 2013 right by competing to become the most NOLA Wise! NOLA Wise is an energy efficiency program available to New Orleans homeowners through a partnership between the Mayor’s office and the nonprofit organization Global Green USA.

NOLA Wise Neighborhood Challenge!
January 21st – March 31st

Applications due Tuesday, January 15th

Do you have a corner lot just waiting to become a garden? Would your community center benefit from lower utility bills? Form a neighborhood team and compete with fellow New Orleanians to win $5000 for a community greening project of your choice, courtesy of NOLA Wise!

NOLA Wise provides homeowners with the tools they need to improve their homes’ comfort, affordability and efficiency. Step one is to have a home performance evaluation (HPE) to see how the home could upgrade its energy performance. From there, homeowners have the option of working with a NOLA Wise approved and trained green building contractor to complete the energy efficiency work on their homes. NOLA Wise accesses all available incentives to lower the cost of the project, provides access to low interest loans and does the quality control on the work to ensure that it’s done right the first time.

The challenge winner is the neighborhood with the most homes to have HPEs completed!

Teams will be responsible for promoting NOLA Wise, via volunteer networks, social media, and all available outreach methods, as well as encouraging residents to get an HPE. Neighborhoods will be provided with any NOLA Wise branded marketing materials that are needed, digital or print. In order to register a neighborhood team, please submit a proposal to by Tuesday, January 15th.

You will be notified about final proposal acceptance by January 18th, and the collection of HPE’s will occur between January 21st and March 31st. Totals will be calculated and the winners will be announced by April 15th, 2013.

Proposals should include, but are not limited to, the following information:

Team Information:
Neighborhood (you may create an advantage for yourself by banning together with nearby neighborhoods)
Geographic boundaries
Team leader
Contact information

Description of Outreach Plan
How will you promote NOLA Wise and get people to sign up for an HPE? Methods can include social media, canvassing, volunteers, etc.

Community Project Information
If you win, what community project will the $5000 prize money go towards?
How will this project serve the broadest spectrum of community members and need?
Do you have any matching funding to complete the project?
What is the total cost?
What is the time frame for completion?
How would the project lead to a more sustainable New Orleans?

http://nolawise.org/events/neighborhoodchallenge

Celebrate the holiday season and energy efficiency at NOLA Wise’s Holiday Homeowner Energy Showcase!

Join the NOLA Wise team and contractors from 5:30-7:30pm at this Marigny home. Take a look at the home performance upgrades and learn firsthand how to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient. The retrofit viewing will be accompanied by light refreshments (cider anyone??), holiday sweaters, and a meet and greet with the NOLA Wise team and homeowner. Contact for more information.

Dedicated to improving the well-being of female youth, The Infinity Initiative employs innovative approaches to benefit females in under-served areas, while enhancing their quality of life. The next phase of ensuring that our mission is facilitated, includes our Fiscal Sponsorship and Incubator program (i.e. 501 ©(3) sponsorship).

The Infinity Initiative’s Fiscal Sponsorship program provides tax-exemption sponsorship for like-minded, youth oriented organizations and individual projects. Fiscal Sponsorship is ideal for the growth of organizations who do not want (or are not fully prepared) to become a tax-exempt nonprofit organization. It affords organizations/groups/associations to receive funding from foundations and corporations that—by choice or by requirement—only donate to individuals or organizations with 501©(3) tax-exempt status. Our Incubator program aids start-up organizations through organizational/program consulting and the enhancing of their organizational capacity by connecting with an established nonprofit, with a great track record. Both programs offer different benefits and opportunities for exposure and growth. Our programs are exclusively for associations or organizations identified as “nonprofits”; as such, for profit entities are not eligible to apply.

Contact The Infinity Initiative for specific information & see how a mutually beneficial relationship with our organization can help you further your mission/vision to impact the lives of our youth! (Note: (1) We are NOT a grantmaking organization. (2) We only offer fiscal sponsorship to organizations/individuals in the United States.)

Connect with Us:
@LoveTheInfinity
Facebook.com/InfinityInitiative
ph8magazine.onsugar.com

We’re looking to enhance our leadership team and are new seeking directors for our Board of Directors. The Infinity Initiative’s board serves as the foundation of the organization’s leadership, drives the direction of programming and events and serves as leaders of teen girls in the communities we work in.

Requirements:
—No experience is necessary. Members must be able to commit to a two year term (no exceptions).
—Desire to benefit and enhance the quality of life of teen girls and young women.
—Though drive and passion are inherently desired, potential board members must be able to commit to the mission and vision of the organization. This means not only a desire to help teen girls, but, also having a reasonable capacity and ability to commit time, effort and energy into everything that we do for our girls. While we service girls in New Orleans, Baton Rouge (coming 2012) and Fulton County Georgia, we do not require that board members travel to our programs and/or events.
—Effective communication in both written and verbal contexts.
—Creativity, thoughtfulness and an ability to work with a team.
—Desire to commit to The Infinity Initiative’s brand, mission and vision.

Please send a letter of interest and resume (or questions about the positions) to and we’ll follow up accordingly.

TWO New Orleans CBD/Arts District Offices Available for Sublet Immediately

Sunny, beautiful offices in excellent central location in the heart of the Arts District of New Orleans.

Two spaces available for sublet together or individually:

550 square ft 2 room suite with 18 ft ceilings, large windows, hardwood flooring, architectural details including built-in bookcases, transom and unique clerestory skylight – $750 mo.

280 square ft 1 room office with 18 ft ceilings, large windows, beautiful light maple wood laminate flooring, accent wall – $500 mo.

Carondelet Street neighborhood is on the edge of the CBD in New Orleans’ historic Warehouse/Arts District, conveniently located on the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar line.

2nd floor w/downstairs street entrance buzzer/intercom access on Carondelet, DSL-ready, utilities and building alarm system included, upstairs bathrooms, safe onsite parking in rear, great fellow tenants.

Please email or leave message at 504-525-2121, X181 to schedule an appointment ASAP.

Thanks!

On November 15th, Global Green’s New Orleans office will host a festive VIP cocktail reception and fundraiser for more than 75 local green economy leaders and Global Green supporters to celebrate our achievements in helping to green the City of New Orleans and create a more sustainable Gulf Coast.

Join us for an exclusive preview of Casa Borrega – an exciting new restaurant and music venue set to open on the revitalized Oretha Castle Haley corridor in late 2012 – and meet the new Director of Global Green’s New Orleans Office, Linda Stone.

The event will feature food, wine and cocktails thanks to our generous friends including 360 Vodka, LA Pizza Kitchen Uptown, Elizabeth’s, Sweets & Eats, and La Divina Gelateria. We’ll celebrate our newest Holy Cross Homes residents, and enjoy an intimate musical set by Hannah KB and Friends.

New this year – raffle packages and silent auction!! Prizes include Gibson and Epiphone guitars autographed by notable NOLA musicians, fabulous burlap Re-Weekender and Hobo bags by RePurposing NOLA Piece by Peace, a complete room re-design package by Spruce NOLA, a complementary one night stay for two at the InterContinental Hotel New Orleans, 4 kayak rentals from Bayou Kayaks, Crescent City Farmers Market gift bag and cookbook, gift certificates to Boucherie, Green Serene, Branch Out, Shanti Yoga and much more! A raffle ticket is included in the $100 VIP ticket price.

Thursday, November 15th
6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Casa Borrega
1719 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113

To purchase tickets please visit: http://www.globalgreen.org/greenvip

For more information: Contact Lindsey Mayer at or 504-525-2121 ×193

Don’t forget to check out our Facebook page for more event information and prize updates! http://www.facebook.com/events/118198678333393/

The GreeNOLA group is for local residents, organizations and friends of NOLA worldwide who support the creation of a greener, more sustainable New Orleans and Gulf Coast through intelligent, environmentally responsible and progressive planning.

Our page is also a venue to post your ideas, events and actions that you are taking to further green building, restoration of the Wetlands and Gulf Coast, recycling/re-purposing efforts, sustainable living, and support local artists, organizations, businesses, green jobs, green space…. and the spirit of NOLA, far and wide.

Please join us in sharing your love for New Orleans and the Gulf Coast!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/115093039648/members/

Reconnect with your neighbors in a positive environment…

SMILE, eat, drink, dance and play this SATURDAY

Enjoy the 23rd annual Voodoo on the Bayou. Experience the joy of great fun as the Treme Brass Band tunes up for your enjoyment.

Tickle your tastebuds with food from New Orleans’ finest restaurants. Wash it down with spirits from the open bars then dance to the sounds of Lips and the Trips. Join the second line when the Treme Brass Band brings down the house.

And, speaking of houses, the 23rd annual Voodoo on the Bayou will be at the historic Pitot House at 1440 Moss Street on beautiful Bayou St. John.

So, what are you waiting for? Rush out and get your tickets at Terranova’s at 3308 Esplanade, Pal’s Lounge at 949 North Rendon, Swirl Wines at 3143 Ponce de Leon or Cork and Bottle in the American Can Company.

Check out the poster at http://voodooonthebayou.com

For more information, please visit:
http://fsjna.org/2012/10/voodoo-on-the-bayou-6/

http://fsjna.org/2012/10/neighborhood-expression-of-care/

Did Mr. Rogers give us the answer to fighting crime?

Teach children properly with a neighborhood expression of care…
“for a girl can someday be a lady and a boy can someday be a man.”

http://fsjna.org/2012/10/neighborhood-expression-of-care/

http://fsjna.org/2012/09/blight-status/

While the official roll out isn’t until October 11th, get a sneek preview of this exciting new blight fighting tool that will make finding out about the progress of the blight fight in your neighborhood a lot easier. Just type in the address of that blighted property and voila… instant information!

Don’t expect any info from the website until after October 11th. Get an exclusive preview of the new BLIGHT STATUS website at FSJNAdotORG. Click on the link below:
http://fsjna.org/2012/09/blight-status/

BlightSTATUS makes it simple for residents to find out what’s going on with blighted properties in their community – no long waits on the telephone or visits to City Hall required.

A great example of government transparency at work, BlightSTATUS pulls up-to-date property information directly from the City’s official records, providing a single, comprehensive and authoritiative view to the public for the very first time.

http://fsjna.org/2012/09/blight-status/

Global Green proudly partners with the AIA, New Orleans Chapter and USGBC, Louisiana Chapter in hosting The Sustainability Series – a monthly panel presentation and community discussion on issues of sustainable building and environmental responsibility.

September 20th’s installment of our Sustainability Series will focus on the timely and crucial issue of water management for our region.

This month, Global Green hosts leading local professionals David Waggonner, Principal, Waggonner and Ball Architects; Robin Barnes, Executive Vice President and COO of GNO, Inc and Jeffrey Thomas, New Orleans attorney and Principal, Thomas Strategies, LLC – who will update us on their work and lead our discussion on the design community’s overall response to the ecological, planning, and economic situation of coastal Louisiana and the development of a Comprehensive Water Management Strategy for the Greater New Orleans region.

Included in our discussion will be plans for the Lafitte Greenway, the Pontilly neighborhood project, storm and waste water management, and the growth of new Emerging Environmental industry sector in the fields of energy, waste and water.

Living with Water: Water Management Strategies for Coastal Lousiana
Thursday, September 20th
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Green Building Resource Center
841 Carondelet Street
New Orleans, LA

Sustainability Series events are FREE and open to the public. CEU’s available for registered AIA member attendees.

Please join us for organic refreshments and networking at 5:30pm, with our panel beginning promptly at 6pm. Street and paid parking nearby on Carondelet Street and adjacent streets.

Very special thank you to our friends at Whole Foods Market, Moises Wines, City Greens, Beaucoup Juice and 360 Vodka for their generous support of our Sustainability Series.

For more information, please contact Heidi Jensen at our New Orleans Green Building Resource Center:

Coastal Restoration Coordinator (AmeriCorps VISTA)

Global Green New Orleans seeks a Coastal Restoration Coordinator. This is an Americorps VISTA position and has a one-year term, from November 2012 to November 2013.

Duties:
• RESEARCH: Research ongoing and planned coastal restoration efforts, wetland conservation programs, and existing and emerging national ecological values market
• WRITING: Create grants and other financial incentives to support conservation
• OUTREACH STRATEGIES: Pursue avenues to educate/engage coastal landowners on/in conservation programs
• OUTREACH EVENTS: Seek out and schedule presentation at events such as Parish Soil and Water Conservation District board meetings, Coastal Zone Management and Restoration Advisory Committee meetings, etc.
• PARTNERSHIPS: Develop relationships with federal, state and local agencies, other entities involved in coastal planning and wetland owners, attend restoration meetings, research organizations and agencies engaged in similar coastal initiatives
• REPORTING: Develop monthly reports to track program progress and ensure deliverables are met, keep database of wetland owners that have been reached out to, send partners updates on the status of our work
• FUNDRAISING: Research prospects for fundraising and assist with grant writing
• OTHER: Give tours of Holy Cross house; Table events.

Eligibility:
• Minimum age: 18
• High school graduate; bachelor’s or master’s degree preferred

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana; our offices are located in the Broadmoor neighborhood at the intersection of Washington and Broad.

Service Description: Global Green USA’s Louisiana Wetland Action Program (LWAP) is a state-funded initiative to encourage early engagement with and incentives for private property owners to support coastal planning and implementation. As part of this endeavor, the organization collaborates with both residents and entities supporting conservation efforts to develop the stakeholder education and infrastructure needed for landowners to access economic incentives to promote conservation. To do so, Global Green works closely with entities sponsoring conservation programs to gather and draft information on opportunities to help Louisiana private property owners preserve and restore coastal habitats. By engaging in outreach to landowners, LWAP provides them with easy access to detailed information on programs, grants and other financial incentives to support conservation.

Skills: Communications, Community Organization, Computers/Technology, Education, Fundraising/Grant Writing, Leadership, Public Speaking, Writing/Editing

Program Benefits: Childcare assistance if eligible, Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend, Health Coverage, Relocation Allowance, Stipend, Training.

Terms: Requires full-time service without outside commitments.

Other Requirements: Personal vehicle preferred for business related local and regional transport, with mileage reimbursement provided.

About GGUSA: Founded in 1993 by activist and philanthropist Diane Meyer Simon, Global Green is the American Arm of Green Cross International (GCI), which was created by President Mikhail S. Gorbachev to foster a global value shift toward a sustainable and secure future by reconnecting humanity with the environment. Global Green USA is the only national environmental nonprofit headquartered in Southern California and has offices in New Orleans, Washington, D.C., and New York. We are one of 31 national GCI affiliates throughout the world.

Mission: To foster a value shift towards a more sustainable and secure future. Global Green is working to address some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. In the United States our work is primarily focused on stemming global climate change by creating green buildings and cities.

Values: Professionalism; Respect, Trust, and Teamwork; Transparency, Openness, and Communication; Nimble Yet Focused Risk-Taking Entrepreneurialism; Optimism; Balance and Fun

To Apply: Apply online at: https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do?id=47178&fromSearch=true

We are accepting applications through September 14, 2012. For more information on the program, visit the AmeriCorps VISTA program website.

Are you interested in greening New Orleans? NOLA Wise needs you– Volunteer to help local families save money on their utility bills and reduce energy waste!

The purpose of the NOLA Wise Volunteer Team is to engage volunteers in the process of spreading the word about energy efficiency and encouraging New Orleans residents to do what they can to promote environmental sustainability. By being part of the NOLA Wise Volunteer Team, volunteers will have the opportunity to impact both the environment and the lives of the people around them by helping neighbors in making New Orleans a more sustainable place. This is a great opportunity to take part in your community and become part of the greening of New Orleans.

All volunteers must attend a 30-minute orientation detailing the program and outreach process. They then will be able to sign up for various canvassing outreach times. Volunteers who participate with NOLA Wise neighborhood canvassing efforts are eligible for positions working alongside Global Green members. The nature of our outreach program is flexible and therefore is a great option for volunteers of all schedule types.

To Sign Up: Please email Monica Rowand at

Global Green – NOLA Wise Community Outreach / Technical Assistance Coordinator (AmeriCorps VISTA)

Member Duties: TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Attend training for and become familiar with technologies related to Building Performance Institute (BPI) standards, Home Energy Rating System (HERS) methodologies, and/or Leadership in Energy Efficiency and Design (LEED) ratings; Develop systems for automating and upgrading home energy savings projection tools; Effectively communicate the various programmatic and financial resources available to homeowners through NOLA Wise, as well as the benefits of making a home energy efficient; Provide green building technical assistance consultations for New Orleans homeowners; Complete follow up paperwork (including energy savings calculations) and determine next steps for homeowners; Assist with program reporting; Experience or interest in energy efficiency measures and their benefits and energy modeling experience a plus.

OUTREACH: Deliver workshops on the program for a general audience, identify guest speakers for events, and develop training materials; Assist with canvassing, tabling, presentation and other grassroots outreach efforts in the community; Give tours of the Holy Cross house, a LEED Platinum demonstration home in the Lower Ninth Ward.

Program Benefits: Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend, Health Coverage, Relocation Allowance, Stipend, Training.

Terms: Requires full time service without outside commitments.

Skills: Communications, Community Organization, Computers/Technology, Education, Fund raising/Grant Writing, Leadership, Public Speaking, Trade/Construction, Writing/Editing, Attention to detail.

Service Description: NOLA Wise, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the City of New Orleans, focuses on residential energy efficiency upgrades through bank and incentive financing, in conjunction with trained contractors and knowledgeable green building advisors.
Global Green USA seeks a committed and energetic person to join our New Orleans office in the NOLA Wise Energy Efficiency Financing program. This position has opportunities for in-depth training in green rebuilding. Position reports to the Program Manager of NOLA Wise. Primary duties will include working with the public to provide general and custom recommendations about energy efficiency home modifications, and performing home energy models to show projected savings after weatherization. Strong background and/or interest in green building, construction, and/or community outreach preferred.

VISTA will work out of and support grant work for Global Green USA’s New Orleans programs and Green Building Resource Center, which has the most up to date sustainable product and vendor information, samples of environmentally friendly building materials, and also advises homeowners with professional one-on-one green building consultations. VISTA will gain knowledge of green building materials and policy and provide grant support for the Global Green Holy Cross Project Visitor Center, Policy Work, and Wetlands Program.

Program Start/End Date 11/23/2012-11/22/2013

Work Schedule: Full Time

Education level: College graduate

Accepting Applications From 08/27/12 To 09/15/2012

For more information about the AmeriCorps VISTA program, visit http://www.americorps.gov/for_individuals/choose/vista.asp.

To apply, visit http://www.americorps.gov/for_individuals/ready/index.asp.

REBRIDGE Fall Gala
December 1, 2012

What: The important fundraiser of the year for the REBRIDGE effort.
A lavish and exciting evening along the banks of Bayou St. John!

When: Saturday, December 1, 2012

Where: 1001 Moss Street in beautiful Faubourg St. John in New Orleans

Who: This year’s gala will be at the extraordinary home of Eric Hess and Judge Frank Thaxton III, ret.

Ti Martin is again graciously donating food for the event, so whether it is Commander’s Palace or the wonderful new SoBou, the food will be divine!

More details will be coming soon, but please hold the date and plan to attend the Second Annual REBRIDGE Gala on December 1st!

***

Dear neighbors and Re-Bridge enthusiasts,

What follows is a long-overdue update about our efforts to rehabilitate the Dumaine Street and Magnolia bridges. Although I have not sent out an email recently, much work has been going on, and our progress is on track!

As a preface, I want to emphasize my great appreciation for the amazing support that has been offered and maintained, and without which this project would have died a long time ago:

~ The core group of Re-Bridge worker-bees that stays the course and gets it all done!

~ The Regional Planning Commission, who welcomed our initial proposals, contributed money and expertise, and continues to guide the project through a seemingly bewildering landscape!

~ Councilmember Susan Guidry, who has supported this project from the very beginning and continues to facilitate necessary conversations and collaborations!

~ The Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association, who encouraged the project to launch, provided initial seed money, and has been there to help, support, contribute, attend, participate, and advocate in whatever manner is needed!

Magnolia Bridge

Feasibility Study (completed) $10,000 Funded by the Regional Planning Commission (RPC)

Completed by Volkert, Inc in 2011. This study informed the application for Federal Transportation Enhancement Funds (TE), and in November, 2011 $844,400 was awarded for this project.

Environmental & Historical Analyses (current phase) $67,000 Funded by RPC, to which Re-Bridge has contributed $13,400 in matching funds.

Completed by Volkert and forwarded to State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for review in July. SHPO considers the impact of proposed work from an historic and archeological perspective and their review and approval is required prior to being able to spend any federal money on a project. A response from SHPO is expected soon, after which all documents will be forwarded to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for approval.

Engineering Design and Permitting (next phase) estimated at $200,000. TE funds cannot be used for this phase.

We have asked the City of New Orleans to provide funding for this phase, and we are awaiting final confirmation that money from an upcoming bond sale will be earmarked as such.

Construction (final phase) estimated at $888,750. The $844K in TE funds will be applied to this phase, leaving a match requirement estimated at $44,450.

The match dollars can be provided from any source: Re-Bridge, the City, or grant funding (as yet unidentified).

Dumaine Street Bridge

Re-Bridge contributed an engineering inspection (thanks to Jim Danner!) in 2011, which concluded that no structural damage exists.

The Department of Public Works inspects every bridge in the City every two years, and they have agreed to use the upcoming inspection of Dumaine to generate a scope of work and budget for beautification.

With a reliable estimate of cost, and once we understand what portions of the scope require professional v. volunteer services, Re-Bridge will pursue a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement (CEA) with the City of New Orleans. This CEA will allow Re-Bridge funding to fulfill a City-approved scope of work for cosmetic repairs and beautification.

Re-Bridge needs and welcomes community support! If you have some time, resources, money, or talent that you would like to contribute to the cause, please //';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|109';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|99';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|108';l[9]='|105';l[10]='|97';l[11]='|109';l[12]='|103';l[13]='|64';l[14]='|49';l[15]='|115';l[16]='|98';l[17]='|101';l[18]='|119';l[19]='|109';l[20]='>';l[21]='"';l[22]='|109';l[23]='|111';l[24]='|99';l[25]='|46';l[26]='|108';l[27]='|105';l[28]='|97';l[29]='|109';l[30]='|103';l[31]='|64';l[32]='|49';l[33]='|115';l[34]='|98';l[35]='|101';l[36]='|119';l[37]='|109';l[38]=':';l[39]='o';l[40]='t';l[41]='l';l[42]='i';l[43]='a';l[44]='m';l[45]='"';l[46]='=';l[47]='f';l[48]='e';l[49]='r';l[50]='h';l[51]=' ';l[52]='a';l[53]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> ">email me directly.

Many thanks to all of you,
Mary-jo Webster, Re-Bridge Chair
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Computer projections of the hurricane show New Orleans as a place where the hurricane MIGHT make landfall. Since the hurricane is still several days away, why not make preparations now? …just in case.

Be prepared, not scared. Visit the link below for a few suggestions just in case the hurricane does come our way.
http://fsjna.org/2012/06/are-you-ready/

And, one of the things you should be doing on a regular basis is cleaning that catch basin near your home.

Check out the link below for more information:
http://fsjna.org/2012/05/free-protection/

by Charlie London

Parkway Partners to Announce Five-Year Plan to Further Reforest Orleans Parish and Strengthen Neighborhoods.

30th Anniversary Celebration Will Kick Off Even Greater Public-Private Preservation,
Beautification and Maintenance

TIME: 10:00AM
WHEN: Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2012
WHERE: New Orleans Healing Center 2372 St. Claude Ave.

I contacted Jean Fahr of Parkway Partners who said that New Orleans is the most deforested city in America because of Hurricane Katrina. Parkway Partners has already put over 10,000 trees in the ground and is going to put over 10,000 more over the next five years.

How can you help? Be a Tree Trooper!

Topics range from tree selection, to proper planting and pruning techniques, watering, pest and disease control, and garnering community support.

Trained Tree Troopers then take their knowledge back to their communities and spearhead tree plantings, maintenance and pest control, thus improving their own neighborhoods. Besides replanting trees, this program is a community builder, bringing neighbors together while teaching environmental responsibility and ownership.

Parkway Partners always tries to enlist trained Tree Troopers when it plants trees in a neighborhood, as this better ensures the survival and longevity of the trees.

Monday, September 10 – Wednesday, September 12, 4-7pm at The New Orleans Healing Center, and Saturday, September 15 at Parkway Partners, time TBD.

For more information, please click here or on the tree above.

“Get Fit Stay Free”

The National Juneteenth Association recognizes The New Orleans Juneteenth Celebration with Seal of Approval and Encouragement

Juneteenth Festival New Orleans: June 16th & 17th
1pm – 7pm both days at Annunciation Street Park, located at 800 Race Street (Uptown)

This is a multicultural event admission is FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
There will be food and craft vendors. There are lots of prizes for children who participate in the physical activities. Everyone has a chance to win a prize.

Activities will culminate on June 17th with a “Special Tribute to Fathers”

On Stage Guest Performers Include:

Zena Mosses, Mistah Beeze, The Jazz Man, Porgy Jones, The Honorable South, Casa Samba, John Mosley & Friends, Ronald Lewis House of Dance & Feathers, Kenneth Jones, Truthlink2150, 10th Ward Buck, Don Paul. Dr. Kendra Andrus, Dr. Dana G. Andrus D.D., LMFT, Uptown Warriors Mardi Gras Indians, DJ Lance and many more…

Children and Youth Activities Include:

Potato Sack Race, H-O-R-S-E basketball competition, volleyball competition, 4K Race for Youth, hulahoop competition, jumprope competition, and talent show

Monthly Sustainability Series: Thursday, June 14th

GlobalGreen USA proudly partners with the AIA, New Orleans Chapter and USGBC, LA Chapter to present a monthly panel presentation and discussion series on issues of sustainability and environmental responsibility.

As we brace ourselves for another hot, humid summer in New Orleans, this month’s installment will feature presentations and discussion with sustainable contractor/owner Ryan Fitzmorris of Retro-Fitz Home Weatherization, energy consultant Louis Triay of Energy and Comfort Solutions and Solar Alternatives’ founder and VP, Mike Murphy.

We’ll discuss the best ways to prepare our homes and businesses for comfort in the summer months and beyond – the importance of an energy assessment and best practices in local weatherization services; products such as cellulose and spray foam insulation, radiant barrier and other new measures that can ensure comfort and save you hundreds of dollars a year on energy bills. We’ll feature information on the newest energy efficiency financing programs and incentives available – including loans, leasing and rebates that make this the most affordable time in Louisiana’s history to consider adding solar power to your energy plan – all with the sustainability of our structures, and our planet, in mind.

Monthly Sustainability Series
Thursday, June 14th
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Green Building Resource Center
841 Carondelet Street
New Orleans, LA 70130

FREE and open to the public. Continuing Education Credits available registered AIA professionals.

Join us for organic wine and refreshments – and a fresh, fizzy signature 360 Vodka cocktail debuting at 5:30pm – with our panel presentation beginning promptly at 6pm. For more information, please contact Heidi Jensen at our Green Building Resource Center:

Very special thank you to our generous friends at Whole Foods Market, along with new sponsors Beaucoup Juice, City Greens and 360 Vodka for your ongoing support of Global Green’s work in New Orleans.

Organization Overview:
The Orleans Public Education Network is a New Orleans-based nonprofit committed to ensuring that there is an informed and engaged community that exercises influence on policy and programs to realize excellence and equity for every public school child in New Orleans.

Job Description:
OPEN seeks a proven relationship builder to continue to strengthen our pre-existing relationships with the community and to lend their skills to support OPEN’s transition into building a membership Network. Organizers are charged to support systemic change in public education through powerful, well-organized and informed coalitions of community leaders to advance a pro-active agenda and respond to emergent issues impacting quality and student achievement.. Community Organizers will actively work to expand the Network cultivating relationships with individuals and organizations, providing training and growing community leaders to lead improvement in public education citywide. These individuals will work hand-in-hand with youth, parents, faith-based organizations, community members, and schools.

How to Apply
All interested candidates are encouraged to visit our website, http://www.opennola.org and the ONE STEP Campaign website, http://www.onestepnola.org to learn more about the organization including our theory of change, our leadership and our funders. Candidates should submit their cover letter and resume via email to , please list the position title in the subject of the email. No calls, please. Cover letters and resumes should specifically address demonstrable alignment between the position and previous work experience(s). Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

Deadline for Submission: Friday, June 8th

As part of our commitment to the sustainable rebuilding of New Orleans and demonstrating green building as a solution to global warming nationally, Global Green USA sponsored an international sustainable design competition during the summer of 2006. The product of which was our Holy Cross Project.

We are about to enter Phase II of the Holy Cross Project and break ground on construction of our 8000 + square foot Community Development and Climate Action Center (CDCAC) in July 2012. Global Green’s New Orleans office is releasing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a fresh food retailer to occupy a 1,000 – 2,000 sqft space within this structure. The deadline for submission is Friday, June 8th. A number of incentives are available to attract this fresh food retailer, including free rent and utilities for the first three months of occupancy. This is a great opportunity to bring fresh produce to the Lower Ninth Ward and address the pressing issue of the area’s food desert.

As a landmark sustainable development, the Global Green Holy Cross Project is of vital importance to Global Green, the Holy Cross Neighborhood and the people of New Orleans.

A complete Holy Cross Project background and detailed RFP can be found in the Resources tab under CDAC RFP Fresh Food Retailer.

For questions please contact:

Michelle Pyne

504-525-2121 ext. 171

Linda Stone
Program and Operations Director, NOLA Office
Global Green USA
841 Carondelet Street
New Orleans, LA 70130

504-525-2121 ×186
fax 504-525-2122

841 Carondelet Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
http://www.globalgreen.org

Deadline for Submission: Friday, June 8th

“Cooking Out of the Box” (in partnership with Hollygrove Market & Farm) kicks off next week, Tuesdays, 5-7 p.m. (beginning June 5th). Order fresh produce boxes, $25, online at http://www.hollygrovemarket.com and pick them up from the Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center between the hours of 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday evenings. All are also welcome to participate in the cooking demonstration that starts at 6 p.m. that same evening in the Keller teaching kitchen.

So buy a box of farm-fresh produce and learn how to enjoy a little local flavor!

For information contact please contact (504) 309-2571.

Regional farmers, backyard growers, and farming cooperatives invited to apply for Farmers Market vendor opportunities!

New Orleans, Louisiana, – The Sankofa Farmers Market is seeking farmers to host regular vendor booths every Saturday from 10 am to 2pm. The Farmers Market offers regional farmers, fishers, and food producers a weekly venue to sell their produce and serves as a community anchor, providing residents with access to local, fresh food. It is a project initiated by Sankofa Community Development Corporation to support economic development within the area through local farming and agriculture.

At this time, produce/products in demand include:
• Asparagus
• Bananas
• Blackberries
• Blueberries
• Corn
• Cheese
• Eggs (all types)
• Figs
• Fresh Juice
• Garlic
• Gluten-Free Products
• Leeks
• Lettuce
• Live Crabs
• Live Crawfish
• Meats
• Milk
• Nuts
• Oats
• Olives
• Peppers
• Pastries
• Raw Foods
• Southern Peas
• Summer Squash
• Tomatoes
• Vegan Products
• Wild-Caught Louisiana Shrimp
• Yogurt

The Sankofa Farmers Market is the only open-air fresh food market located in the Ninth Ward area of New Orleans, and is in close proximity to the Treme, Seventh Ward, Faubourg Marigny, French Quarter, Gentilly, and Mid-City neighborhoods. Founded in 2010, the Farmers Market continues to grow and currently generates an average of 300 customers weekly. Farmers, fishers, and food producers travel from various parts of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast region to sell their products. Items currently sold include seasonal fruits and vegetables, an assortment of baked breads and bagels, whole pastured chickens, eggs, hot pepper jelly, wild-caught Louisiana shrimp, herbs, vegetable starter plants, ornamental cut flowers, and an array of local delicious eats.
If you are a farmer, fisher, or food producer interested in becoming a vendor at the Sankofa Farmers Market, please visit our website at sankofanola.org to submit a vendor interest form and review the vendor rules and regulations.

About Sankofa Community Development Corporation Sankofa Community Development Corporation serves as a catalyst to revitalize New Orleans’ Lower and Upper Ninth Ward communities. The 501c3 non-profit organization was established to facilitate advances in urban revitalization,healthy living, education and economic development. Currently, the Sankofa Community Development Corporation oversees the Sankofa Farmers Market, the Sankofa HEAL Project, the Frederick Douglass Garden and the Sankofa Blueberry Mini-Farm. For more information, visit http://www.SankofaNOLA.org.
Contact: Alexis Castro, Outreach and Market Coordinator, 504.872.9214,

The Renaissance Project is pleased to announce four evening presentations in the month of May as part of our African American Women: Breaking Silence Series:
May 10, 2012 Coming of Age Black and a Woman in America
Kimberley Richards, Organizer, People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond

May 17, 2012 Visual Aesthetics Of Black Women’s Stories in Film Ashley Jones, Filmmaker, Students at the Center

May 24, 2012 The Prosecution of Women In Louisiana: Achieving A Policy Victory Ending Louisiana’s Crimes Against Nature Law Deon Haywood, Executive Director, Women With a Vision

May 31, 2012 Mental Health Disparities
Terry Mogilles, Executive Director, Positive Living Treatment Center

The Renaissance Project envisions a vital, thriving New Orleans that recognizes residents from historically low-income communities of color and engages them in the rebirth of their neighborhoods as beautiful, safe, economically resilient, and culturally vibrant places where they enjoy access to good health, good food, quality education, economic opportunity and civic participation across race
and class for the common good.

This project is made possible through the generous support of W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Open Society Foundations, Students at the Center, United Teachers of New Orleans, United Educators,Inc., People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond, Pyramid Resource Wellness Institute, Louisiana Justice Institute, and Women With A Vision.

All presentations are free and begin at 6PM. The series is hosted by Community Book Center, 2523 Bayou Road,
New Orleans, 504.948.7323.

Information on the Committee and Business meetings of the Orleans Parish School Board and BESE meeting items relevant to the Recovery School District – New Orleahs are available through the “OPSBrief” and “RSDigest” email alerts provided by the Eastbank Collaborative of Charter Schools, made possible by a Community IMPACT 2010 Grant from the Greater New Orleans Foundation.

The alerts include agendas of all scheduled Committee Meetings, Board Business Meetings, Public Hearings, Master Plan Oversight Committee Meetings, and other regular business of the Orleans Parish School Board, as well as BESE Committee and Board meeting agendas and summaries of items relative to the RSD. Reports on the respective meetings are sent out no later than close of business the following day.

These email updates are free of charge, and anyone interested in signing up can do so by visiting http://www.eastbankcollaborative.com.

The “OPSBrief” and “RSDigest” are created by Ken Ducote and Rose Drill-Peterson on behalf of the Eastbank Collaborative of Charter Schools and are not official correspondences from the Orleans Parish School Board.

Louisiana Green Corps is seeking 14-18 year olds with intellectual disabilities for an eight-week summer program.

Apply through JOB1’s Summer Youth Works Application Process. Reference Louisiana Green Corps during your interview!

Applications will be accepted until April 14th. Complete the application online and schedule an appointment at: http://www.nola.gov/NOLAYouthWorks

TWO LOCATIONS ACCEPTING APPOINTMENTS:

3400 Tulane Ave., NOLA 70119 (504) 658-4547 AND
3520 General De Gaulle, Suite 1030, NOLA 70114 (504) 658-4580

Offices are open from Monday-Thursday 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (Closed April 7th,2012.)

Program includes:

•Weekly stipends $$$$$
•Self-determination assessments completed with staff
•Environmental literacy training
•Job readiness
•Community service projects
•Independent life skills training (public transportation, cooking, money management, shopping)
•Community outings and fun recreation activities

photos by Charlie London

Join the Louisiana Landmarks Society for a unique Vino on the Bayou experience!

March 31
PRC Shotgun House Tour
Headquarters: The Pitot House10 AM – 4 PM

April 20
Vino on the Bayou, 5:30 – 7:30 PM

May 18
Vino on the Bayou, 5:30 – 7:30 PM

June 8
Vino on the Bayou, 5:30 – 7:30 PM

Monday, March 12th, 2012 – FSJNA Board Meeting – Anyone is welcome to attend.

Overview The mission of the Broadmoor Development Corporation (BDC) is to enhance the economic well-being of the Broadmoor neighborhood. The BDC is currently engaged in activities to eliminate blight in the neighborhood which includes new construction for sale, renovation for homebuyers and current homeowners, and the maintenance of green space.

As part of its efforts to develop affordable, storm resilient and energy efficient housing, the BDC is building and renovating over 20 properties in the Eastern part of the neighborhood. Professional assistance from a person or team with the expertise in the areas of marketing and community outreach will help advance these activities. Through this request for qualifications the BDC is seeking a Homebuyer Outreach Consultant to identify qualified individuals and create a pipeline of at least 300 potential home buyers.

Position Description:
The Homebuyer Outreach Consultant is responsible for:
• Creating and providing a copy of the outreach strategy to identify buyers for the houses being built and/ or renovated by the Broadmoor Development Corporation. This strategy will focus on identifying without limitation Broadmoor residents, First Responders, Teachers, and Health Care Workers.
• Meeting or exceeding monthly goals for securing qualified homebuyer applicants.
• Taking an initial assessment of potential homebuyers and supporting the BDC’s homebuyer activities.
• Weekly reporting on outreach activities and potential homebuyers.

Experience
• Two or more years of professional experience, preferably in housing, outreach or related activities.

Skills
1. Able to interact well with diverse groups, make public presentations, and facilitate group workshops.
2. Knowledge of housing issues in the City of New Orleans.
3. Background in consumer credit issues, assessment and triage methods to screen potential applicants.
4. Strong organization and communication skills.
5. Able to work independently with minimal supervision.
6. Able to meet deadlines and pay attention to details.
7. Good computer skills with knowledge of Microsoft Windows XP and Office (Excel, Word, Outlook and specifically Access). Database management skills are necessary.
8. Bilingual skills preferred.

Other
1. This position requires travel within the City of New Orleans, applicant must have reliable transportation.
2. A high level of time flexibility, excellent time management and self-direction skills are also required.

The BDC Strongly encourages the participation of minority, women and disabled business entrepreneurs and will use experience, reference of work done previously and cost reasonableness as the basis for selection. The BDC is an EEO employer and will ensure that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

Please e-mail your information to Alyssa Beck, or mail to Broadmoor Development Corporation, 3900 General Taylor Street New Orleans, LA 70125.

The City and the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORDC) announced that three public meetings will be held to review proposed locations for a skate park. In October 2011, a skateboard ramp was donated to the City and NORDC.

The proposed locations for installation are Joe Brown Park, Behrman Memorial Park, or the Lafitte Greenway.

The three public meetings will be held in the New Orleans City Council chamber, 1300 Perdido Street, 1st floor, on the following dates:

Wednesday, December 21, 2011; 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Citizens are encouraged to attend and provide their input. Please write to Councilmember Guidry at //';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|118';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|103';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|97';l[9]='|108';l[10]='|111';l[11]='|110';l[12]='|64';l[13]='|121';l[14]='|114';l[15]='|100';l[16]='|105';l[17]='|117';l[18]='|103';l[19]='|103';l[20]='|115';l[21]='>';l[22]='"';l[23]='|118';l[24]='|111';l[25]='|103';l[26]='|46';l[27]='|97';l[28]='|108';l[29]='|111';l[30]='|110';l[31]='|64';l[32]='|121';l[33]='|114';l[34]='|100';l[35]='|105';l[36]='|117';l[37]='|103';l[38]='|103';l[39]='|115';l[40]=':';l[41]='o';l[42]='t';l[43]='l';l[44]='i';l[45]='a';l[46]='m';l[47]='"';l[48]='=';l[49]='f';l[50]='e';l[51]='r';l[52]='h';l[53]=' ';l[54]='a';l[55]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> ">

Skate Park Site Selection Criteria

Map of NORD Parks Recreation Facilities December, 2011

The New Orleans Community Bike Project exists to promote the use of bicycles and other human-powered transportation; to assist all bicyclists in learning to maintain their vehicles; to provide a space for sharing community resources and fostering community education; and to promote the reuse of materials that might otherwise be thrown away.

Plan B is a community-run bike project that functions as an open workspace for bicycle building and repair. The workspace makes an array of professional bike tools available for use to the public for free while volunteers offer free help and instruction in bike repair. The bike project makes donated parts available at low cost. Additionally, complete used bikes are also available at reasonable, fair-market prices. All of the proceeds from sales are used to keep the project running and allow us to offer free stand time, tool library use, and bike education programs to the general public.

Click on the bike to learn more.

***

RHUBARB is an all volunteer run space, which means no bosses, no workers and no pay. We all participate in making the space, tools and parts organized and accessible, and any money that is received goes toward tools and parts and all other basic needs of the shop. Our primary goal is to provide adequate tools and competent help to meet the needs of those who desire to build and repair bikes. RUBARB is an educational space where we all can share and learn from each other’s skills and experiences.

To meet these goals we currently offer:

Ways to build or get your own bike – start with a bike that needs a little repairing and a donation for all the needed parts and a person can finish the bike and make it their own. Work trades are also a welcomed way to get a bike and contribute to the shop. We also have a few bikes ready to ride, which we ask a $40 – $80 contribution for.

the EARN-A-BIKE program – after completing a series of 4 steps, which include learning basic maintenance and bike building skills, youth earn bikes that they take home with them.

step #1: fixing a flat. this is a basic skill that every bike owner should be able to do! kids learn to patch a punctured tube and should then be able to fix their own if experiencing a flat on their bikes.

step #2: overhauling a wheel. this step requires the earn-a-biker to take apart a wheel, regrease it, and put it back together. not only does overhauling a wheel make it ride smoother and last longer, but kids get a chance to see what’s inside a hub, how it works, and how it goes together.

step #3: overhauling a bike. this is the time when kids pick out a bike to earn and begin working on it. some of our bikes are in various states of disrepair, so s/he may not only be overhauling the bottom bracket and wheels, but adjusting the headsets and brakes and piecing together parts such as handlebars and seats.

step #4: help beautify RUBARB. in this final step, the earn-a-bike participant does something to help brighten, organize, or simply make the shop a more enjoyable space. so far kids have made t-shirts, painted a mural, created a sculpture out of bike parts, organized our tubes, and painted ornaments for our tree made out of rims.

download the earn-a-bike flyer here

5-7pm, Thursday, December 15th
Eiffel Society, 2040 Saint Charles Ave

The Green Collaborative has teamed up with LifeCity’s Green Drinks Holiday Party to celebrate all of you who have helped us throughout the past year to create a greater, greener and more sustainable New Orleans. There will be signature drinks courtesy of 360 Vodka, music and fun for all. Come enjoy our green vendors for those of you who are still searching for that perfect gift for that special someone.

Speakers: Greater New Orleans Inc. & Bayou Interfaith Shared Community Organizing

Featuring the Basil Splash, First Drink FREE,$5 after.
http://mylifecity.com/news

Gala guests will gather to support the rehabilitation of two historic bridges, while enjoying delicious cuisine from Commander’s Palace and dancing to the throw-down tunes of the Creole String Beans. Bubbles will be served — champagne and ice-cold beer — and wine.

The Gala is to raise awareness and funds for rehabilitating the Magnolia and Walter Parker Memorial (aka Dumaine) Bridges that cross Bayou St. John, a community effort led by the Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association in collaboration with the Re‐Bridge organization. The Magnolia Bridge is considered the oldest in New Orleans and was recently named one of Louisiana Landmarks Society’s “New Orleans Nine.” The Sanctuary is a private residence, once Walter Parker’s home, who helped transform the squalid bayou and surrounds into the wonderful neighborhood it is today. Re-Bridge is continuing the vision that Mr. Parker initiated 80 years ago.

The Gala is open to the public (cocktail attire) and tickets are available now at www.rebridge.org. The tickets are $75 each with all proceeds going to Re-Bridge to raise matching funds for city and state funding. Commander’s Palace graciously donated the cuisine and Tommy Lewis has generously sponsored the Creole String Beans. The Gala will also include an incredibly eclectic silent auction featuring getaway trips, fine art, spa, world-class musical talent for private entertainment, spiritual/garden/foreign language master services, dining packages and more!

For more information call Re-Bridge’s chair, Rachel Dangermond, 504.309.2116 within normal business hours.

CLICK ON THE ANNOUNCEMENT FOR A LARGER VIEW

New Orleans, LA – The Louisiana Landmarks Society has commissioned a site-specific collaborative arts performance at the historic c. 1799 Creole, colonial style Pitot House titled, Looking Through New Orleans History: A Performance Event at the Pitot House. The performance will focus on movement and dance as a medium to convey the multifaceted stories connected to the history of the Pitot House. Audience members will experience the cultural, geographical, and architectural themes shared by the Pitot House with New Orleans’ history by moving through the house and grounds to view various “scenes” of dance and movement accompanied by live musicians.

Site-specific choreography is emerging as a preservationist and historian’s tool – a new form of living history – to highlight spaces lost, forgotten or in need of stewardship. The goal of this performance is to enhance the visibility of the Pitot House within the community through an alternative method of interpretation and to promote examination of the diminishing traditional Creole craftsmanship of our material culture in New Orleans.

This performance is choreographed and directed by Susan Bensinger of Lusher Charter School, Barbara Hayley of Tulane University Department of Theatre and Dance, and Monique Moss of Third Eye Theatre. The core group of performers are fourth and fifth grade students from Lusher Charter School; the Newcomb Dance Ensemble; and professional performers from ArtSpot Production’s Rumours of War (Kathy Randels and Monique Moss). The Lusher students will perform a choreographed piece called “Air” by David Garrett. The images in the dance are nature based, using images taken from the swamps and bayous. Another dance, “Symphony” (also by David Garrett) is about how people both simultaneously work together and, at times, disrupt each other. The Newcomb Dance Ensemble will perform various pieces of choreography adapted from their end-of-year performance at Newcomb, entitled Above the Oaks. Sections of choreography adapted to the Pitot House site include “Bayou Gardens,” “Silent Columns,” “Slaves for Sale” and more, to present images of the place and time of the people who lived and worked at the Pitot House in the early 1800s.

After touring through the site of the historic home, the performance will culminate on the banks of Bayou St. John. At this time, volunteers from Re-Bridge, the nonprofit group working to restore and rehabilitate the historic bridges on Bayou St. John, will be in floating vessels as a celebration of the bayou’s presence and importance to the history of the city.

This program is supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council. The grant is administered through the Arts Council of New Orleans.

Sunday, November 13th
Performance begins at 4 PM, Gates open at 3:30 PM
1440 Moss Street, New Orleans, LA 70119
Tickets on sale now by calling 504-482-0312 or visiting www.louisianalandmarks.org $10 for Landmarks Members; $15 for Non-Members; Student Admission is Free with ID
(Reservations Required)
The Louisiana Landmarks Society is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote historic preservation through education, advocacy and operation of the Pitot House.

Click here for a PDF of the press release.

Entergy Corp. is providing 10,000 free trees to its customers in Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas and Texas to help them save energy.
The trees, offered on a first-come, first-serve basis, are part of the Arbor Day Foundation’s Energy-Saving Trees program which hopes to conserve energy through strategic tree planting. The foundation says trees provide shade and thus helps lower utility bills.

The trees can be reserved using an online tool —http://www.entergy.com/arborday — that estimates the amount of energy each tree will save in different locations.

Some types of trees available include sourwood, bald cypress, red maple and crape myrtle.

The New Orleans Museum of Art recently upgraded their website. You can check it out by clicking on their logo or visit http://noma.org/

Media Contact:
Mary M. Fein
(504) 301-9814

New Website Provides Resources and Tools to Increase Public Engagement in Community and Neighborhood Health Improvement Efforts

New Orleans – November 7, 2011 – To create greater community awareness of factors that influence personal and community health outcomes in New Orleans, the Neighborhood Partnership Network (NPN), Concordia, LLC, and the Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI) announced today the launch of the Healthy NOLA Neighborhoods website that offers resources and tools to help increase public engagement in community health improvement activities.

The new site, http://www.HealthyNola.org, was developed with guidance from local neighborhood and community organizations, community planning experts and public health professionals. Funding for the development and current support for the web-based resource was provided by the Kresge Foundation, Troy Michigan.

The HealthyNola.org website provides health data and information at the city level as well as some detailed information at the neighborhood level. Visitors to the site can also find information about services located in their neighborhood, neighborhood crime rates, air quality, education rates, community gardens, and more.

“This website supports civic engagement and better informed community health decision-making. It not only provides community information, but also access to promising community health innovations from across the country,” said Joe Kimbrell, CEO of LPHI.

In addition to neighborhood-based data, the site also offers links to local and national organizations that support healthy community activities, planning tools, health news, and more than 1,500 evidence-based community success stories from across the country, to inspire and inform residents and community leaders.

“The Healthy NOLA Neighborhoods website will help anyone who has worked to recover and sustain their neighborhood to know and understand their neighborhood’s needs without struggling to access needed data, information, and tools to do their work more efficiently and effectively. Whether they seek project ideas for writing grants or neighborhood figures to track community progress, HealthyNola.org will be a welcomed and much-needed addition to the neighborhood-leader-toolbox,” said Timolynn Sams, Executive Director of NPN.

A primary goal of the HealthyNola.org initiative is to provide residents with neighborhood-based tools and information that educate visitors about multiple factors that influence community health, while empowering community leaders and planners to use data and best practices to make informed changes that support healthy and resilient neighborhoods. Special features of the site include interactive community maps that allow neighborhood by neighborhood comparisons and visual tools that rate neighborhoods on more than 120 data metrics across health, social, economic, education, transportation, and environmental factors.

“I support the goals of HealthyNola.org, which seeks to link and leverage resources across New Orleans,” said City Health Commissioner Dr. Karen DeSalvo. “We look forward to working with LPHI as they continue this innovative project.”

For more information about the program, visit http://www.HealthyNola.org, or contact Eric Baumgartner at (504) 301-9800.

###

by Charlie London
The streets of Faubourg St. John were quiet tonight. No one was out on their stoop and few people were walking their dogs after 7 pm.

Except for some hollering and screaming every once in a while one might have thought no one was around. Why?

The big game was on TV. #1 ranked LSU played #2 ranked Alabama at Tuscaloosa. It was a regular season game. Many neighbors had friends, relatives and neighbors over to watch.

The game wasn’t a high scoring one as the defensive groups on both teams put up a good fight. Scoring was limited to field goals and the game ended in sudden death overtime with LSU winning 9 to 6.

Sports aren’t normally a topic covered at FSJNA dot ORG. But, with the many people in the neighborhood with Alabama or LSU flags flying out in front of their homes and the tremendous interest in the game, it is an appropriate post.

Both teams were tough competitors. Regardless of the team you supported, you can hold your head high. They played a good game.

Entergy Corp. is providing 10,000 free trees to its customers in Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas and Texas to help them save energy.
The trees, offered on a first-come, first-serve basis, are part of the Arbor Day Foundation’s Energy-Saving Trees program which hopes to conserve energy through strategic tree planting. The foundation says trees provide shade and thus helps lower utility bills.

The trees can be reserved using an online tool —http://www.entergy.com/arborday — that estimates the amount of energy each tree will save in different locations.

Some types of trees available include sourwood, bald cypress, red maple and crape myrtle.

Esplanade Avenue from Moss Street to Claiborne Avenue will be repaved via the Submerged Roads Program.

After reviewing the PDF in the link below, you
can submit comments by November 6th, 2011 to:
LADOTD, Environmental Engineer Administrator
P.O. Box 94245
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9245

Click here for PDF about the paving on
ESPLANADE from Moss to Claiborne

http://www.viddler.com/player/d1c1c51c/

Voodoo on the Bayou is 22 years old this year. It’s the original Voodoo on the Bayou not that head-banger one.

Check out the slideshow above and you’ll see photos of your neighbors enjoying the sounds of Los Po-Boy-Citos, the best latin band in New Orleans!

How ‘bout this great stage built by Keith Christopher? Keith does all the great design for the party and has outdone himself year after year. And, the cost? zip, nada, zero. Why? Because Keith Christopher knows the value of service to one’s community.

If you could not make the 22nd annual Voodoo on the Bayou at the Pitot House this year you really missed a good one. But, its not too late to help out!

Please click here to make your tax deductible donation to the Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association and its many benevolent programs. Just click on the “donate or pay dues here” box.

Check out Charlie London’s photos of the 2011 Voodoo on the Bayou in the link below:
http://neworleans.smugmug.com/Events/2011-Voodoo-on-the-Bayou

Many thanks to all our wonderful donors, suppliers, and generous businesses. Voodoo on the Bayou would not be possible without you!

Please visit the link below for more:
http://voodooonthebayou.com/

Article and photos by Charlie London

Click on the photo above to see Cheap Trick perform at the 2011 Voodoo Experience

I must admit to feeling a bit out of place as I entered the Voodoo Experience around 6 pm on Sunday. Everyone around me seemed to be 18-25 years old and me, well, not so much.

Cheap Trick put on a fantastic show. One that transformed a bunch of old drones into leaping gnomes again. That was worth twice the price of admission!

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gDDozrBFCc&w=420&h=315]

Have you seen the signs around the neighborhood
promoting this Saturday’s Voodoo on the Bayou?

Click on the picture or go to
http://voodooonthebayou.com for more information.

Every Wednesday look for a new
Magical Mystery Tour post at FSJNA dot ORG.
AND, on Sundays, look for the
Postcard from Home at FSJNA dot ORG.

by Keith Twitchell

The City Council has just begun its hearings on the mayor’s proposed 2012 city budget. As the final arbiters on the budget, this is one of the Council’s most important tasks. Community members can provide input at the Council budget meetings or by contacting their Council members.

The opportunity to have a voice in how the city spends our money is the essence of citizen participation, and I hope you will take just a few minutes to look this over and to take the opportunity to provide your input on what the priorities should be for our city in the year ahead.

CLICK HERE FOR CLEAR AND SIMPLE INFORMATION
ON THE PROPOSED 2012 BUDGET
FOR THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS

Reminder: You and your neighbors are invited to the HealthyNOLA.org Resident-Leader Launch Party TONIGHT!

Thursday, October 27
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Sojourner Truth Neighborhood Center
2200 Lafitte Street
(Parking is on the Galvez Street side of the building)

Food and Beverages Served

Where are grocery stores located in your neighborhood?
How safe is your neighborhood?
How can you and your neighbors organize to make it safer?
How many children live in your neighborhood?
Interested in starting a community garden but don’t know how to get started?

Introducing HealthyNOLA.org — a website that provides this information and more | so you can better reach your neighborhood goals.

Get neighborhood-level data
Find examples of successful community projects
Get guides that can help you better advocate for your neighborhood
… and more!
If you have not already done so, help us get a headcount for tonight’s event by letting us know if you’re coming. RSVP Here
Please contact Tia Vice, //';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|109';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|99';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|97';l[9]='|108';l[10]='|111';l[11]='|110';l[12]='|110';l[13]='|112';l[14]='|110';l[15]='|64';l[16]='|97';l[17]='|105';l[18]='|116';l[19]='>';l[20]='"';l[21]='|109';l[22]='|111';l[23]='|99';l[24]='|46';l[25]='|97';l[26]='|108';l[27]='|111';l[28]='|110';l[29]='|110';l[30]='|112';l[31]='|110';l[32]='|64';l[33]='|97';l[34]='|105';l[35]='|116';l[36]=':';l[37]='o';l[38]='t';l[39]='l';l[40]='i';l[41]='a';l[42]='m';l[43]='"';l[44]='=';l[45]='f';l[46]='e';l[47]='r';l[48]='h';l[49]=' ';l[50]='a';l[51]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> "> , 504-940-2207 with additional questions or for more information.

See you there!

Healthy NOLA Neighborhoods Initiative – Partners
Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI)
Neighborhoods Partnership Network (NPN)
Concordia, LLC

www.lphi.org | www.npnnola.com | www.concordia.com

Get data & info about your neighborhood. Take action!
Where is affordable healthcare located in your neighborhood?
How safe is your neighborhood?
How can you organize to make it safer?
Want to start a community garden, but don’t know how to get started?

Please join us for food and drinks as we celebrate public access of
www.HealthyNOLA.org

NEIGHBORHOOD-LEVEL DATA * COMMUNITY BUILDING PROMISING PRACTICES * ADVOCACY TOOLS * … AND MORE!

Resident-Leader Launch & reception
October 27, 2011
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Sojourner Truth Neighborhood Center
2200 Lafitte Street
New Orleans, LA 70119
(Parking is on the Galvez side of the building)

To RSVP use the link below:
RSVP for HealthyNOLA.org Launch & Reception Here
For additional information, contact
//';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|109';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|99';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|97';l[9]='|108';l[10]='|111';l[11]='|110';l[12]='|110';l[13]='|112';l[14]='|110';l[15]='|64';l[16]='|97';l[17]='|105';l[18]='|116';l[19]='>';l[20]='"';l[21]='|109';l[22]='|111';l[23]='|99';l[24]='|46';l[25]='|97';l[26]='|108';l[27]='|111';l[28]='|110';l[29]='|110';l[30]='|112';l[31]='|110';l[32]='|64';l[33]='|97';l[34]='|105';l[35]='|116';l[36]=':';l[37]='o';l[38]='t';l[39]='l';l[40]='i';l[41]='a';l[42]='m';l[43]='"';l[44]='=';l[45]='f';l[46]='e';l[47]='r';l[48]='h';l[49]=' ';l[50]='a';l[51]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> "> , 504-940-2207

Please RSVP

Healthy NOLA Neighborhoods is an initiative of Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI), Neighborhoods Partnership Network (NPN), and Concordia, LLC. with critical support from community partners. This event is hosted by Catholic Charities’ Sojourner Truth Neighborhood Center.

Beacon of Hope Resource Center is calling for volunteers to take part in Beacon’s Make A Difference Day Event.

With your help, Beacon of Hope will restore the outside of this Katrina damaged house and continue to bring this Gentilly neighborhood back to life. Volunteer with The Beacon of Hope on October 20, 21, and 22. On October 22nd,at the close of the project, we will celebrate the culmination of all our hard work with pizza and re-freshments provided by a local favorite, Nonna Mia Cafe & Pizzaria.

Where: Call 504-309-5120 to register and find out more address information (The homeowners address will be give to those who register for the event)

When: Oct 21-23 8:00am-4:00pm…You do not have to come all 3 days.

Cost: FREE as long as you register prior to the dates above, otherwise it will be $10.00

Shade, water and materials provided…just come in your paint clothes and a kick butt attitude!

by Charlie London
BlightStat meetings take place on the 8th Floor in the Homeland Security Conference room at City Hall. This was the 25th BlightStat meeting to which the public was invited.

The City continues to march toward its goal of eradicating 10,000 blighted properties within three years. City departments that can help with this process meet every two weeks for a “BlightStat” meeting.

Goals have been set for each department and a presentation is made at each meeting to show how each department is doing toward meeting those goals.

Click here for the City’s October 20, 2011 BlightStat presentation

Mr. Reid indicated that the Code Enforcement districts are setup and running.

Ms. Kristin Illarmo noted that fewer hearings were done due to training of personnel.

90 hearings were done over the last two weeks. 450 hearings each two weeks is the goal.

Ms. Breaux indicated a plan is in the works to have a large number of hearings to reduce the backlog. Ms. Illarmo concurred with that assessment.

Mr. Kray and Ms. Illarmo discussed some details about reporting the backlog. Mr. David Lessinger offered some comments on the details of the reports as well.

Ms. Illarmo discussed how cases are closed in the computer system. Mr. Reid and Mr. Lessinger discussed the intake process for inspections.

Ms. Denise Ross and Ms. Illarmo discussed issues with the software noting that there are some significant safeguards missing to ensure accuracy of reports.

Mr. Reid noted that some properties are being inspected and reinspected sometimes 4 to 6 times because of software issues.

Mr. Allen Square indicated that IF Accela wins the upcoming bid for a new system that he will recommend significant changes to make reports easier for inspectors on the street.

Ms. Illarmo discussed undesirable resets which have steadily increased over the last several months after a significant drop in June. Mr. Wise asked what causes resets.
Ms. Illarmo indicated that many are due to no re-inspection.

Mr. Wise indicated that there is a plan to fix this problem and we’ll soon see the results of that plan. Mr. Reid discussed operational issues preventing re-inspections from being done timely but indicated the new plan should help but many times the inspectors don’t “see” the inspections needing to be done because the computer system isn’t working properly.

Mr. Hillarie Carrere discussed demolitions. 1,731 demolitions have been completed so far. The largest activity is with NORA/LLT demolitions. Mr. Carrere indicated that Entergy disconnects are currently caught up.
The demolition process is moving along with total demolitions continuing to rise each bi-weekly period.

Mr. Wise reviewed the demolition denials which appear to be concentrated in the 7th and 8th Wards. These are denials by SHPO, NCDC, and HDLC. Ms. Ross asked about neighbor participation in the process. Mr. Carrere indicated that notices are placed on each property, the demolitions are noted on the city’s website, and the hearings for demolitions are broadcast on television.

Mr. Square noted that it appears that there is a high incidence of crime in the same areas where demolition denials take place. He qualified that statement by indicating there is no definitive data yet to back that up but appears to be the case in his view.

Mr. Carrere and Ms. Breaux discussed eminent danger of collapse. Ms. Breaux indicated that a City engineer has to inspect and certify a building is in eminent danger of collapse.

The recent multiple fires reputed to have been started by vagrants was discussed.
A Fire Chief was present and discussed the Fire Department’s efforts and the impact of blighted properties on fire fighting efforts.

Mr. Keith Ferrouillet discussed lot clearings. 27 lots were cleared over the last two weeks.

Mr. Wise asked about the 9th Ward grass cutting project. Mr. David Lessinger indicated that over 100 lots have been cut with more being done everyday.

Mr. Wise indicated the City is way past the deadline for FEMA trailers being completely gone but less than ten FEMA trailers remain.

Ms. Cynthia Sylvain-Lear discussed the Sanitation Department’s outreach efforts. Trees must be cut into 36 inch lengths for it to be picked up by sanitation contractors.

Tire dumping continues to be a problem. Bandit signs are being removed steadily. Write to if you have bandit signs in your area. Ms. Lear has mailed a list of codes to the Office of Neighborhood Engagement to be sent to neighborhoods.

Mr. Miles Granderson discussed Sheriff Sales noting that 1908 Esplanade was recently sold at a Sheriff Sale. The sale price was $70,000 with the City receiving $17,000 in past due blight liens from the sale.

Ms. Joyce Wilkerson asked about follow up on Sheriff Sale properties to make sure they get repaired. Mr. Granderson indicated that the City cannot attach covenants to Sherrif Sale properties but once the property transaction is complete that the owner has 90 days to begin the process of restoration of the property. If that isn’t done then neighbors can once again report the property as blighted and the process begins again.

Mr. Reid discussed the possibility of having a notice put on the construction permit for properties sold at Sheriff Sale so that these properties can be properly monitored. Mr. Wise indicated that a policy needs to be formulated. Mr. David Lessinger indicated that there is a policy of 90 days for action to be taken but enforcement is the issue. He indicated that more information will be in the annual blight report.

Mr. Wise indicated that information on foreclosed properties can be found at http://data.nola.gov

Ms. Joyce Wilkerson reviewed NORA issues. NORA properties are closing faster after auctions. She indicated that some of the properties are being auctioned for as little as 1,000 dollars in Algiers. Ms. Wilkerson indicated that Gilmore Auctions will be conducting another auction for NORA soon. She suggested that citizens should check the Gilmore website for more information.

Mr. David Lessinger responded to a question from the audience about deconstruction of properties. He indicated that all of the demolition programs have a deconstruction clause in the contract.

Mr. Carrere indicated that if any part of the building has any value the contractor is aware of it.

Mr. Wise indicated that the City should do a better job of communicating the availability of properties that can be deconstructed.

The City of New Orleans Sanitation Department received a grant from Anheuser Busch to provide recycling bins to fairs and festivals in New Orleans. Find out more by writing to //';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|118';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|103';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|97';l[9]='|108';l[10]='|111';l[11]='|110';l[12]='|64';l[13]='|110';l[14]='|111';l[15]='|105';l[16]='|116';l[17]='|97';l[18]='|116';l[19]='|105';l[20]='|110';l[21]='|97';l[22]='|115';l[23]='>';l[24]='"';l[25]='|118';l[26]='|111';l[27]='|103';l[28]='|46';l[29]='|97';l[30]='|108';l[31]='|111';l[32]='|110';l[33]='|64';l[34]='|110';l[35]='|111';l[36]='|105';l[37]='|116';l[38]='|97';l[39]='|116';l[40]='|105';l[41]='|110';l[42]='|97';l[43]='|115';l[44]=':';l[45]='o';l[46]='t';l[47]='l';l[48]='i';l[49]='a';l[50]='m';l[51]='"';l[52]='=';l[53]='f';l[54]='e';l[55]='r';l[56]='h';l[57]=' ';l[58]='a';l[59]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> ">

OTHER HELPFUL INFORMATION
To report blighted property please call (504) 658-4300/4301 or email Jonathan Solis at //';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|118';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|103';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|97';l[9]='|108';l[10]='|111';l[11]='|110';l[12]='|64';l[13]='|115';l[14]='|105';l[15]='|108';l[16]='|111';l[17]='|115';l[18]='|97';l[19]='|106';l[20]='>';l[21]='"';l[22]='|118';l[23]='|111';l[24]='|103';l[25]='|46';l[26]='|97';l[27]='|108';l[28]='|111';l[29]='|110';l[30]='|64';l[31]='|115';l[32]='|105';l[33]='|108';l[34]='|111';l[35]='|115';l[36]='|97';l[37]='|106';l[38]=':';l[39]='o';l[40]='t';l[41]='l';l[42]='i';l[43]='a';l[44]='m';l[45]='"';l[46]='=';l[47]='f';l[48]='e';l[49]='r';l[50]='h';l[51]=' ';l[52]='a';l[53]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> ">

To report an abandoned car or illegal parking please call (504) 658-8290/8291 or email Zepporiah Edmonds at //';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|118';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|103';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|97';l[9]='|108';l[10]='|111';l[11]='|110';l[12]='|64';l[13]='|115';l[14]='|100';l[15]='|110';l[16]='|111';l[17]='|109';l[18]='|100';l[19]='|101';l[20]='|122';l[21]='>';l[22]='"';l[23]='|118';l[24]='|111';l[25]='|103';l[26]='|46';l[27]='|97';l[28]='|108';l[29]='|111';l[30]='|110';l[31]='|64';l[32]='|115';l[33]='|100';l[34]='|110';l[35]='|111';l[36]='|109';l[37]='|100';l[38]='|101';l[39]='|122';l[40]=':';l[41]='o';l[42]='t';l[43]='l';l[44]='i';l[45]='a';l[46]='m';l[47]='"';l[48]='=';l[49]='f';l[50]='e';l[51]='r';l[52]='h';l[53]=' ';l[54]='a';l[55]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> ">

To report a street light outage please call (504) 658-8080

To report a pot hole please call (504) 658-8000 or email Nguyen Phan at //';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|118';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|103';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|97';l[9]='|108';l[10]='|111';l[11]='|110';l[12]='|64';l[13]='|110';l[14]='|97';l[15]='|104';l[16]='|112';l[17]='|100';l[18]='|110';l[19]='>';l[20]='"';l[21]='|118';l[22]='|111';l[23]='|103';l[24]='|46';l[25]='|97';l[26]='|108';l[27]='|111';l[28]='|110';l[29]='|64';l[30]='|110';l[31]='|97';l[32]='|104';l[33]='|112';l[34]='|100';l[35]='|110';l[36]=':';l[37]='o';l[38]='t';l[39]='l';l[40]='i';l[41]='a';l[42]='m';l[43]='"';l[44]='=';l[45]='f';l[46]='e';l[47]='r';l[48]='h';l[49]=' ';l[50]='a';l[51]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> ">

For other Quality of Life issues you may contact the Community Coordinator (CoCo) Officers below:

1st Police District at (504) 658-6010, or email Sgt. Kenny Temple at
2nd Police District at (504) 658-6020, or email Sgt. Ernie Joseph at
6th Police District at (504) 658-6060, or email Sgt. Yolanda Jenkins at
8th Police District at (504) 658-6080, or email Sgt. Jonette Williams at .

For all other complaints call: (504) 658-4000 and follow the prompts. If you get unacceptable results after contacting the numbers from above please email with all the info and we’ll follow up.

Click here for the
CODE ENFORCEMENT HANDBOOK for RESIDENTS

Is it blighted or just a public nuisance? Click here to find out. ****************************************************

//';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|109';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|99';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|108';l[9]='|105';l[10]='|97';l[11]='|109';l[12]='|103';l[13]='|64';l[14]='|117';l[15]='|111';l[16]='|121';l[17]='|97';l[18]='|98';l[19]='|101';l[20]='|104';l[21]='|116';l[22]='|110';l[23]='|111';l[24]='|111';l[25]='|111';l[26]='|100';l[27]='|111';l[28]='|111';l[29]='|118';l[30]='>';l[31]='"';l[32]='|109';l[33]='|111';l[34]='|99';l[35]='|46';l[36]='|108';l[37]='|105';l[38]='|97';l[39]='|109';l[40]='|103';l[41]='|64';l[42]='|117';l[43]='|111';l[44]='|121';l[45]='|97';l[46]='|98';l[47]='|101';l[48]='|104';l[49]='|116';l[50]='|110';l[51]='|111';l[52]='|111';l[53]='|111';l[54]='|100';l[55]='|111';l[56]='|111';l[57]='|118';l[58]=':';l[59]='o';l[60]='t';l[61]='l';l[62]='i';l[63]='a';l[64]='m';l[65]='"';l[66]='=';l[67]='f';l[68]='e';l[69]='r';l[70]='h';l[71]=' ';l[72]='a';l[73]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> ">

Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association is pleased to announce the 22nd Annual Voodoo on the Bayou celebration which will be held on the grounds of The Historic Pitot House.
The event will feature live music by “Los Po-Boy-Citos” (winners of the 2011 Big Easy Award for Best Latin Band) and the New Orleans sounds of “Lips & the Trips”.

Open Bar, food from some of New Orleans most beloved restaurants including Café Degas, Santa Fe, Nonna Mia and Angelo Brocato’s.

Also featured will be a wonderful variety of silent auction items including a Mignon Faget necklace, a Treme Poster signed by cast members, a Chris Owens costume, 1996 Sports Illustrated featuring and signed by Archie and Peyton Manning.

Tickets are $40 in advance ($50 at the door the night of the event) and available at:

Terranova Supermarket 3308 Esplanade Avenue
Swirl Wine 3143 Ponce de Leon
New Orleans Bamboo 6065 Magazine Street
Cork & Bottle 3700 Orleans Avenue

//';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|109';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|99';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|108';l[9]='|105';l[10]='|97';l[11]='|109';l[12]='|103';l[13]='|64';l[14]='|117';l[15]='|111';l[16]='|121';l[17]='|97';l[18]='|66';l[19]='|101';l[20]='|104';l[21]='|84';l[22]='|110';l[23]='|79';l[24]='|111';l[25]='|111';l[26]='|100';l[27]='|111';l[28]='|111';l[29]='|86';l[30]='>';l[31]='"';l[32]='|109';l[33]='|111';l[34]='|99';l[35]='|46';l[36]='|108';l[37]='|105';l[38]='|97';l[39]='|109';l[40]='|103';l[41]='|64';l[42]='|117';l[43]='|111';l[44]='|121';l[45]='|97';l[46]='|66';l[47]='|101';l[48]='|104';l[49]='|84';l[50]='|110';l[51]='|79';l[52]='|111';l[53]='|111';l[54]='|100';l[55]='|111';l[56]='|111';l[57]='|86';l[58]=':';l[59]='o';l[60]='t';l[61]='l';l[62]='i';l[63]='a';l[64]='m';l[65]='"';l[66]='=';l[67]='f';l[68]='e';l[69]='r';l[70]='h';l[71]=' ';l[72]='a';l[73]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> "> or Call the “Voodoo Queen” at 504.486.7793

For more go to www.voodooonthebayou.com

In Order To Register For A Curbside Recycling Cart, You Must Contact The Sanitation Department By:
Completing a Recycling Registration Card,
Mailing or bringing the card to the
Department of Sanitation, City Hall
1300 Perdido Street, Room 1W03, N.O., LA 70112
OR
Faxing the card to (504) 658-3801
OR
Registering Online At
http://recycle.nola.gov/
OR
Calling us at (504) 658-3800

*****************************************************************

The City of New Orleans Sanitation Department would like to help you improve your quality of life. Here’s 12 Ways to Improve the Quality of Life in New Orleans:

1. Do not litter. (Section 138)
2. Do not place signs illegally on public right of ways, such as neutral grounds or the area between the sidewalk and the curb (Section 134)
3. Properly contain solid waste for collection and remove empty carts from curbs. (Section 138)
4. Call your solid waste collection contractor in advance to schedule the pick-up of bulky waste such as appliances, furniture, carpet (rolled and tied in less than 4’ lengths), more than 6 bundles of tree branches (cut in less than 4’ lengths) and up to 4 tires. Businesses are not eligible for bulky waste collection. (Section 138)
5. If a business generates more than 96 gallons of solid waste at each routine collection (the limit is 35 gallons in the FQ/DDD) or if the property is used as a restaurant, bar or hotel or if the property has more than 4 units, private arrangements are required for the removal of solid waste. (Section 138)
6. If rebuilding, renovating or clearing property, arrangements must be made to obtain private disposal (Section 138)
7. Ensure that all permanent dumpsters are screened from public view. (Section 26-447)
8. Cut your grass and remove litter, grass cuttings, and leaves from the property, extending 1-1/2 ft from the curb. Do not sweep, blow or pour items into storm drains. Contents flow to the lake. Pontchartrain. (Sections 66-287, 313, 314)
9. Do not keep more than 20 tires on your property unless you are specifically permitted. (Chapter 105 – State Regulatory Code)
10. If you are hauling garbage, trash or other loose items in vehicles, securely cover the contents. (Section 138-105)
11. Do not place Household Hazardous Waste in your regular garbage nor should such items be dumped into drain systems (Sections 66, 138)
12. Reduce, Reuse, Educate and Recycle

Fines for violating City Codes range from $150 to $5,000 and may include Community Service or imprisonment.

CLICK HERE FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF SANITATION’s BROCHURE ABOUT HAZARDOUS WASTE, RECYCLING, and ELECTRONICS DISPOSAL

Get data & info about your neighborhood. Take action!
Where is affordable healthcare located in your neighborhood?
How safe is your neighborhood?
How can you organize to make it safer?
Want to start a community garden, but don’t know how to get started?

Please join us for food and drinks as we celebrate public access of
www.HealthyNOLA.org

NEIGHBORHOOD-LEVEL DATA * COMMUNITY BUILDING PROMISING PRACTICES * ADVOCACY TOOLS * … AND MORE!

Resident-Leader Launch & reception
October 27, 2011
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Sojourner Truth Neighborhood Center
2200 Lafitte Street
New Orleans, LA 70119
(Parking is on the Galvez side of the building)

To RSVP use the link below:
RSVP for HealthyNOLA.org Launch & Reception Here
For additional information, contact
//';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|109';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|99';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|97';l[9]='|108';l[10]='|111';l[11]='|110';l[12]='|110';l[13]='|112';l[14]='|110';l[15]='|64';l[16]='|97';l[17]='|105';l[18]='|116';l[19]='>';l[20]='"';l[21]='|109';l[22]='|111';l[23]='|99';l[24]='|46';l[25]='|97';l[26]='|108';l[27]='|111';l[28]='|110';l[29]='|110';l[30]='|112';l[31]='|110';l[32]='|64';l[33]='|97';l[34]='|105';l[35]='|116';l[36]=':';l[37]='o';l[38]='t';l[39]='l';l[40]='i';l[41]='a';l[42]='m';l[43]='"';l[44]='=';l[45]='f';l[46]='e';l[47]='r';l[48]='h';l[49]=' ';l[50]='a';l[51]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> "> , 504-940-2207

Please RSVP by Monday, October 24

Healthy NOLA Neighborhoods is an initiative of Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI), Neighborhoods Partnership Network (NPN), and Concordia, LLC. with critical support from community partners. This event is hosted by Catholic Charities’ Sojourner Truth Neighborhood Center.

The Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association has grave concerns about the structural integrity of the Magnolia (Cabrini) and the Dumaine Street Bridges that span Bayou St. John.

The Magnolia Bridge is an historic treasure and was recently named to the Louisiana Landmark Society’s coveted “New Orleans Nine” list. We believe it may be the oldest existing bridge in New Orleans, built in the late 1800s when Faubourg St. John was a thriving commercial
corridor. Today age and weather have taken a toll. The Magnolia Bridge suffers from significant deterioration in its under-girding that poses a potential safety threat.

The Dumaine Street Bridge was built in 1951 and needs concrete repair and beautification. In 2010 the Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association established a committee to consider options for repairing and restoring these bridges; this committee later launched the Re-Bridge project.

Re-Bridge is now leading a collaborative effort that has garnered extensive public, private, and community support to address the structural and cosmetic deficiencies of the Magnolia and Dumaine Bridges. Although we love these historically significant bridges, we can’t put them in a museum. They to be strong, so that they may serve the community as originally conceived—as a solid path for everyone to walk. Re-Bridge’s mission is to support our bridges, so the bridges can continue supporting us.

In that spirit, Mignon Faget, a reknown jewelry designer based in her native New Orleans, Louisiana, has extended a generous offer of help. Faget’s family settled in the city in the 18th century, and she grew up along the banks of Bayou St. John.

Her jewelry, worked in gold, silver, precious, and semi-precious stones, often finds inspiration in New Orleans architecture and culture or forms in nature. Following Hurricane Katrina, Mignon Faget’s uptown gallery was one of the first businesses to re-open. She donated and continues to donate proceeds from the sale of her Gulf Coast designs to Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana.

Now, Mignon Faget has teamed up with Re-Bridge to help raise matching funds to rehabilitate these historic bridges that are so appreciated by neighbors, visitors, runners, cyclists and Jazz Festers from all over New Orleans and the world.

Mignon Faget is generously donating proceeds from the sale of her Magnolia Bridge AdornAment, which is available for purchase through rebridge.org or http://www.mignonfaget.com/shop/product/holiday/3238M.html.
For more information during business hours, call Rachel Dangermond, Chair of Re-Bridge at 504.309.2116 or visit mignonfaget.com.

by Charlie London

New Orleans’ neighborhoods have never had it so good.

Why? Because now, due to the efforts of the Mayor’s Office of Performance & Accountability, neighborhoods don’t just get lip service.

Mr. Oliver Wise and his department have made it plain that their goal is to further the interests of New Orleanians.

The Office of Performance & Accountability are the “behind the scenes” folks. They gather information, make user-friendly reports, and genuinely care about what the citizens they serve have to say about how things are going in New Orleans.

As an example, every BlightStat meeting has the entire presentation’s slides printed on handouts available to anyone who attends and the meeting is open to the public! Not only that, but each handout at every meeting includes a comment page where citizens can write down anything they feel needs attention.

Why is this important? Because I’ve seen results. The Office of Performance & Accountability has proven that it reads and takes action on suggestions from the public. So much so that a recent visit from a Japanese businessman resulted in a statement that he will be bringing back the New Orleans BlightStat program to Japan!

When was the last time you heard New Orleans City Government being the model for citizen participation and interaction?

Whether it be by strong intervention or gentle reminders, the Landrieu
Administration has proven it’s goal is to move New Orleans forward and
move it forward NOW!

The Office of Performance & Accountability has proven that what gets measured gets managed. All City Departments know that, not only do they now, not operate in a vacuum, but their efforts are being monitored and SUPPORTED by other departments and the Mayor’s Office.

Friendly competition between departments still exists but now everyone is focused on the same goal… making New Orleans all that she can be!

I believe the Office of Performance & Accountablity is serving New Orleanians well and look forward to more of their innovative new ideas, implementation of citizen-centric ideas, and interaction with and from the citizens of New Orleans.

Do you have an idea that you’d like to see implemented?
CLICK HERE!

“One of the most important components of preparing a budget is to ensure that government ultimately provides the services that citizens want. During the campaign, the transition and now as Mayor, gaining citizen input has been a priority for Mayor Landrieu. Through community meetings, the Mayor received valuable public input on the issues, concerns and priorities of citizens. That feedback, which was a critical component of determining what results were most important to citizens, has influenced Mayor Landrieu’s budget-making decisions for 2012.”

The quote above is from the proposed 2012 City Budget. A pdf of the entire budget can be found in the link below:

http://fsjna.org/?p=9680

http://voodooonthebayou.com/

Every Wednesday you’ll find a new post at FSJNA dot ORG which is part of the MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR. The Magical Mystery Tour are photos in and around Faubourg St. John.

AND, every Sunday at FSJNA dot ORG, look for the POSTCARD FROM HOME!

photo of a recent meal at Crescent City Steakhouse

Crescent City Steakhouse is known for their wonderful steaks. Did you know they have a great shrimp meal too? You won’t find it prominently displayed on the menu but, if you ask for it, you’ll be treated to a tasty array of gulf shrimp surrounded by great vegetables and a relaxing atmosphere.

So, if today’s agenda includes a desire for shrimp, head on over to Crescent City Steakhouse and check out this hidden gem. You won’t be disappointed!

This new bench was installed recently at the corner of North Broad and Ursulines Avenue. Benches like this were installed throughout New Orleans.

Do you have your costume picked out for Voodoo on the Bayou?

Check out the film above and at the very bottom of this post for costume ideas for Voodoo on the Bayou on October 29th. Then buy your tickets at one of our local vendors in the link below:

Los Po-Boy-Citos will play at the 2011 Voodoo on the Bayou on October 29th

What: Voodoo on the Bayou

Where: Pitot House, 1440 Moss Street on Bayou St. John in New Orleans

When: Saturday, October 29th from 8:30 until midnight

Why: To benefit the Non-Profit Faubourg St. John Neighborhood
Association and its many community programs including Re-Bridge
(http://rebridge.org) and Desmare Family Park

Dress: Costume or Festive Attire

Contact: //';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|109';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|99';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|108';l[9]='|105';l[10]='|97';l[11]='|109';l[12]='|103';l[13]='|64';l[14]='|117';l[15]='|111';l[16]='|121';l[17]='|97';l[18]='|98';l[19]='|101';l[20]='|104';l[21]='|116';l[22]='|110';l[23]='|111';l[24]='|111';l[25]='|111';l[26]='|100';l[27]='|111';l[28]='|111';l[29]='|118';l[30]='>';l[31]='"';l[32]='|109';l[33]='|111';l[34]='|99';l[35]='|46';l[36]='|108';l[37]='|105';l[38]='|97';l[39]='|109';l[40]='|103';l[41]='|64';l[42]='|117';l[43]='|111';l[44]='|121';l[45]='|97';l[46]='|98';l[47]='|101';l[48]='|104';l[49]='|116';l[50]='|110';l[51]='|111';l[52]='|111';l[53]='|111';l[54]='|100';l[55]='|111';l[56]='|111';l[57]='|118';l[58]=':';l[59]='o';l[60]='t';l[61]='l';l[62]='i';l[63]='a';l[64]='m';l[65]='"';l[66]='=';l[67]='f';l[68]='e';l[69]='r';l[70]='h';l[71]=' ';l[72]='a';l[73]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> "> or
Call the “Voodoo Queen” at 504.486.7793

The Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association is pleased to announce the 22nd Annual Voodoo on the Bayou celebration which will be held on the grounds of The Historic Pitot House.

The event will feature live music by “Los Po-Boy-Citos” (winners of the 2011 Big Easy Award for Best Latin Band) and the New Orleans sounds of “Lips & the Trips”.

Open Bar, food from some of New Orleans most beloved restaurants including Café Degas, Santa Fe, Nonna Mia and Angelo Brocato’s.

Also featured will be a wonderful variety of silent auction items including a Mignon Faget necklace, a Treme Poster signed by cast members, a Chris Owens costume, 1996 Sports Illustrated featuring and signed by Archie and Peyton Manning.

Tickets are $40 in advance ($50 at the door the night of the event) and available at:

Terranova Brothers Superette 3308 Esplanade Avenue
Swirl Wines 3143 Ponce de Leon
New Orleans Bamboo 6065 Magazine Street
Cork & Bottle 3700 Orleans Avenue

//';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|109';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|99';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|108';l[9]='|105';l[10]='|97';l[11]='|109';l[12]='|103';l[13]='|64';l[14]='|117';l[15]='|111';l[16]='|121';l[17]='|97';l[18]='|98';l[19]='|101';l[20]='|104';l[21]='|116';l[22]='|110';l[23]='|111';l[24]='|111';l[25]='|111';l[26]='|100';l[27]='|111';l[28]='|111';l[29]='|118';l[30]='>';l[31]='"';l[32]='|109';l[33]='|111';l[34]='|99';l[35]='|46';l[36]='|108';l[37]='|105';l[38]='|97';l[39]='|109';l[40]='|103';l[41]='|64';l[42]='|117';l[43]='|111';l[44]='|121';l[45]='|97';l[46]='|98';l[47]='|101';l[48]='|104';l[49]='|116';l[50]='|110';l[51]='|111';l[52]='|111';l[53]='|111';l[54]='|100';l[55]='|111';l[56]='|111';l[57]='|118';l[58]=':';l[59]='o';l[60]='t';l[61]='l';l[62]='i';l[63]='a';l[64]='m';l[65]='"';l[66]='=';l[67]='f';l[68]='e';l[69]='r';l[70]='h';l[71]=' ';l[72]='a';l[73]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> "> or Call the “Voodoo Queen” at 504.486.7793

For more go to www.voodooonthebayou.com

John McCusker / The Times-Picayune

The $2.3 million reception hall is next to the Popp Fountain and is being paid for with FEMA money and funds raised by the Friends of City Park.

What: A new venue – The Arbor Room at Popp Fountain – is set to open at New Orleans City Park. The Arbor Room replaces a structure that was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. Costing $2.6 million, the Arbor Room has exquisite views of both Popp Fountain and a field of mature trees. The 5,200 square foot facility accommodates 400 guests for a standing reception or 350 for a seated affair. The party can expand to more than 1,000 by utilizing outdoor patios and the adjacent Popp Fountain. The ceiling soars to 28 feet on the west side of the building.

Additional features of the Arbor Room include a bride’s room and a full kitchen.

Over the past few weeks, hundreds of volunteers and park staff have worked to plant more than 100 trees and install other extensive landscaping in and around the complex.

Funding for the Arbor Room was provided by FEMA, Friends of City Park and City Park.

Where: The Arbor Room is located just north of Popp Fountain. The main entrance is via a brick sidewalk that passes by Popp Fountain.

When: The Arbor Room has been under construction for just over one year.

What they are saying: “The public and event planners really like the new facility. We have more than 40 events scheduled at the Arbor Room over the next six months” said Pat O’Shaughnessy, Director of Sales for City Park.

With your internet enabled smartphone just go to www.NORTA.com to find out where and when the city bus runs. The city busses are clean, efficient and use biodiesel! Soon, New Orleans Regional Transit Authority will activate a new automated system at RIDELINE (504-248-3900). Callers will be able to key in a stop number and hear up-to-the-minute status reports.

New signs were installed throughout the city.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 12, 2011

The Infinity Initiative
c/o Sheryl Landry, Founder
http://www.wix.com/infinityinitiative/ti2

Baton Rouge, La.—The Infinity Initiative was awarded a grant from the American Medical Association (AMA) Foundation’s Healthy Living Program. This program addresses critical healthy lifestyle issues by providing mini-grants to grassroots community organizations. Selected projects target youth and address the topics of nutrition and physical fitness, prescription drug safety and violence prevention. The Infinity Initiative was one of 37 nonprofits across the country that received such a distinction this year.

The Infinity Initiative, a nonprofit organization based in New Orleans, La. seeks to equip and empower female youth in under-served areas, while enhancing their quality of life. The organization received a $5,000 grant for their project, SaVY (Strong and Virtuous Youth) Health & Wellness Lifestyle Tour that will be hosted in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Louisiana. The Tour is an interactive, fun and enlightening series of events and programs designed to bring awareness by providing health and wellness related information and positive lifestyle options to female youth and young women on a wide variety subjects.

“These Healthy Living Grants provide necessary resources and recognition to those organizations who are on the front lines in their communities, creating change on the local level,” said AMA Foundation President Owen Garrick, MD. “We are pleased to support The Infinity Initiative’s efforts to improve the nutrition and fitness level in their community.”

The AMA Foundation, a 501©(3) tax-exempt foundation, is committed to improving the health of Americans through philanthropic support of quality programs in public health and medical education. Visit http://www.amafoundation.org to learn more.

For additional information on event dates, to volunteer or to host The Tour in your community, contact Sheryl Landry of The Infinity Initiative at .

This year Superintendent Ronal W. Serpas’ National Night Out Against Crime is scheduled for Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at 6:00 PM. Chief Serpas hopes that all our neighbors and friends participate in this event to support the City of New Orleans and the New Orleans Police Department. This event is a unified effort for all citizens and members of the criminal justice system to prevent and reduce crime in this great city.

More info at:
http://business.fsjna.org/2011/10/oct-11-night-out-against-crime/

Earlier this week a car pulled in front of an oncoming train. We’ve all heard of such things before but never in New Orleans’ City Park or with the childrens’ City Park train!http://blog.nola.com/interact/2011/10/head-scratcher_of_the_day_city.html

We know that injuries and fatalities that occur at highway-rail crossings or on railroad property are a real, but often preventable, problem. Few people realize that in America, a person or vehicle is hit by a train roughly every three hours, and that’s a reality we’re determined to change. Welcome to Operation Lifesaver, a non-profit organization providing public education programs to prevent collisions, injuries and fatalities on and around railroad tracks and highway-rail grade crossings.

Please click on the crossing signal above to learn more!

Meet your local candidates and find out where they stand on issues affecting us all.

Tues. Oct 11th:
Commissioner of Insurance, BESE District 2
Invited: Jim Donelon, Donald C. Hodge (confirmed), Louella P. Givens (confirmed), Pam Matus, Kira Orange Jones, Ferdinand Wallace Jr.(confirmed)Bridge Lounge, 1201 Magazine Street, New Orleans, 6-8pm

Wed Oct 12th:
State Rep 98th District
Invited:Neil Abramson (confirmed) , Fenn French
Maple Leaf, 8316 Oak St, New Orleans, 6-8pm

Thurs Oct 13th:
State Rep 102nd District:
Invited: Jeff Arnold, Carlos Williams (confirmed)
Tout De Suite, 347 Verret Street, New Orleans, 5-7pm

Esplanade Avenue from Moss Street to Claiborne Avenue will be repaved via the Submerged Roads Program.

After reviewing the PDF in the link below, you
can submit comments by November 6th, 2011 to:
LADOTD, Environmental Engineer Administrator
P.O. Box 94245
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9245

Click here for PDF about the paving on
ESPLANADE from Moss to Claiborne

by Charlie London
BlightStat meetings take place on the 8th Floor in the Homeland Security Conference room at City Hall. This was the 24th BlightStat meeting to which the public was invited.

The City continues to march toward its goal of eradicating 10,000 blighted properties within three years. City departments that can help with this process meet every two weeks for a “BlightStat” meeting.

Goals have been set for each department and a presentation is made at each meeting to show how each department is doing toward meeting those goals.

Mr. Justin Kray announced that more information on lien foreclosures will be online at data.nola.gov

Ms. Bosco discussed the slide showing the districts that code inspectors have been assigned. By Oct 17 all inspectors will be familiar with their areas.

Jeff Hebert announced that HUD has funded a market value analysis like in Baltimore. This is a big part of what peer cities use for data analysis.

Mr. Allen Square said that a RFP (request for proposal) will go out to solve the Accela problem. Accela can legally be one of the bidders.

Ms. Bosco said 658 inspections were done in the last bi-weekly period. Focus is on re-inspections for hearings since Code Enforcement is so far ahead of its goal for the year.

Ms. Bosco continued with a discussion of the inspections backlog slide. She indicated that Code Enforcement continues to move forward.

Ms. Bosco indicated that by October 17 when the new inspection districts are assigned, inspectors will be “doubling up” on the backlog to wipe it out.

Ms. Illarmo said the focus is on research for the backlog of cases for hearings. Mr. Wise asked about the mailroom problem discussed at BlightStat 23. Ms. Illarmo indicated that problem has been solved.

Mr. Wise asked Ms. Breaux about using volunteers from the Bar Association. Ms. Breaux indicated the State Attorney has indicated this can’t be done.

Ms. Illarmo continued by noting that undesirable resets for blight hearings climbed during the last two weeks.

Mr. David Lessinger explained that the City interacts with the State about Road Home properties before bringing them to adjudication.

Mr. Hebert indicated that just because someone is using a State program that does not preclude them from taking care of their property… cutting grass, boarding up, etc.

Mr. Kopplin indicated there is an urgency to get resets resolved because of the impact on the adjacent neighbors.

Mr. Wise, Mr. Kopplin, and Ms. Illarmo discussed the “undesirable resets”. Mr. Kopplin asked for more information about this issue for the next BlightStat meeting.

Mr. Kopplin indicated that the City is “getting tough” on blight and that the prosecutors in blight cases need to constantly reiterate this policy to people attending the hearings. Ms. Breaux indicated that is currently being done.

Justin Kray and “Debra” have done a great job reducing the hearings backlog, Ms. Illarmo said.

Mr. Kopplin indicated “we’ve been puttering along without a plan to close the gap” on the hearings backlog. He suggested a large hearings event at Maria Goretti church as has been done in the past.

Mr. Wise reviewed the total demolitions by program slide. Mr. Carrere indicated that the city is “still on track” with demolitions.

Mr. Wise asked about Entergy disconnects which were discussed as a barrier to progress at BlightStat 23. Mr. Carrere indicated that coordinating Entergy disconnects are still an issue due to more requests than usual for utility disconnects.

Mr. Wise asked about any other barriers to progress. Historic review was mentioned by Ms. Bosco as an issue.

Accela issues were indicated as a barrier to getting information disseminated out to Quality of Life Officers.

Mr. Wolcott discussed FEMA funded demolitions. Grant money from the state for demolitions has been verified.

Finding and notifying the correct property owners is still an issue but progress is being made.

Mr. Wise discussed abatement interventions. Mr. Hebert announced that Mr. Wolcott will be moving to another position and will no longer attend the BlightStat meetings. Mr. Hebert wished him well and announced that “Will” will be taking his place.

Mr. Kopplin indicated that the majority of fires that the city puts out are blighted and abandoned properties. The Fire Department is another City agency that is committed to fighting blight.

Mr. Hebert expressed his frustration over property owners who allow vagrants to inhabit their property. Mr. Kopplin indicated that the City should have a strategy to combat this problem to prevent another incident where kids get killed in a burning building like what happened in the 9^th Ward.

Mr. David Lessinger discussed the strategy for fighting tall grass in the 9^th Ward. A pilot program for just the 9^th Ward has been implemented to combat high grass. High grass along major thoroughfares will be cut first then the program will move further into the neighborhoods.

Ms. Bosco indicated that 7 FEMA trailers remain in the City from 2005. Some trailer residents have received rental assistance from FEMA and some are working on their permanent residence. Mr. Kopplin said the public is not sympathetic to those who have not made progress 6 years after the storm. Not that anyone will be “put out” but that they need to get their act together and accept FEMA funded rental assistance or fix their homes.

Mr. Wise said Ms. Lear is out of town.

Mr. Granderson continue the meeting with a discussion on Sheriff Sales. Mr. Hebert said notifying the proper owner is still a problem for people who have walked away from their property. Mr. Gray discussed state requested holds.

Mr. Granderson indicated that a Sheriff sale is taking place today. A large sale event will take place on October 18^th. He indicated that 250-300 sales should take place by the end of the year.

Significant progress is being made on getting blighted and abandoned properties to Sheriff Sale. Properties going to Sheriff Sale definitely get the property owners’ attention.

Mr. Kopplin indicated a thousand writs have been filed against blighted and abandoned property owners. Mr. Kopplin indicated he would like more properties at the Sheriff Sales by the end of the year.

Mr. Kevin Hanna reviewed the NORA situation. Mr. Hebert said even more details about a CEA between the State and the City concerning NORA properties will be available for the next BlightStat meeting. Mr. Hanna noted that NORA closings continue at a steady pace.

Ms. Rita Legrand from Lakeview asked via email about LLT properties being online. Mr. Hebert indicated that is being worked on and that the process is complicated. 150 have gone to Sheriff Sales.

Ms. Rita asked (via email) about the acquisitive prescription process? Ms. Breaux indicated they are monitoring this.

Mr. Hebert indicated the Mayor is vociferous about getting lots cut and other forms of blight remediated.

Michelle Thompson, a UNO assistant professor said she had the opportunity to meet with the 8 member “Smarter Cities” group from IBM. She indicated that the group invited her to be in a video about the work of IBM for New Orleans.

Ms. Thompson indicated that one of the IBM “Smarter Cities” group hails from Japan and is very interested in using New Orleans’ BlightStat program in Japan.

I had the opportunity to meet with Mr. David Lessinger after the meeting. I expressed dismay that Accela touts on their website how well their program works in other cites but that just doesn’t seem to be the case here in New Orleans.

Mr. Lessinger indicated that in other cities there are 3 city employees assigned to monitor, update, and make changes to the Accela system. Here in New Orleans there is no one.

So, anytime anything needs to be done to the Accela system, the City has to hire Accela representatives to fly down and fix problems. I hope the new RFP has a maintenance program where at least one full time employee paid for by Accela (or whoever wins the bid) to monitor, update, and fix any issues that may arise.

***

To report blighted property please call (504) 658-4300/4301 or email Jonathan Solis at //';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|118';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|103';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|97';l[9]='|108';l[10]='|111';l[11]='|110';l[12]='|64';l[13]='|115';l[14]='|105';l[15]='|108';l[16]='|111';l[17]='|115';l[18]='|97';l[19]='|106';l[20]='|48';l[21]='|50';l[22]='>';l[23]='"';l[24]='|118';l[25]='|111';l[26]='|103';l[27]='|46';l[28]='|97';l[29]='|108';l[30]='|111';l[31]='|110';l[32]='|64';l[33]='|115';l[34]='|105';l[35]='|108';l[36]='|111';l[37]='|115';l[38]='|97';l[39]='|106';l[40]='|48';l[41]='|50';l[42]=':';l[43]='o';l[44]='t';l[45]='l';l[46]='i';l[47]='a';l[48]='m';l[49]='"';l[50]='=';l[51]='f';l[52]='e';l[53]='r';l[54]='h';l[55]=' ';l[56]='a';l[57]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> ">

To report an abandoned car or illegal parking please call (504) 658-8290/8291 or email Zepporiah Edmonds at //';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|118';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|103';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|97';l[9]='|108';l[10]='|111';l[11]='|110';l[12]='|64';l[13]='|115';l[14]='|100';l[15]='|110';l[16]='|111';l[17]='|109';l[18]='|100';l[19]='|101';l[20]='|122';l[21]='|48';l[22]='|50';l[23]='>';l[24]='"';l[25]='|118';l[26]='|111';l[27]='|103';l[28]='|46';l[29]='|97';l[30]='|108';l[31]='|111';l[32]='|110';l[33]='|64';l[34]='|115';l[35]='|100';l[36]='|110';l[37]='|111';l[38]='|109';l[39]='|100';l[40]='|101';l[41]='|122';l[42]='|48';l[43]='|50';l[44]=':';l[45]='o';l[46]='t';l[47]='l';l[48]='i';l[49]='a';l[50]='m';l[51]='"';l[52]='=';l[53]='f';l[54]='e';l[55]='r';l[56]='h';l[57]=' ';l[58]='a';l[59]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> ">

To report a street light outage please call (504) 658-8080

To report a pot hole please call (504) 658-8000 or email Nguyen Phan at //';l[1]='a';l[2]='/';l[3]='<';l[4]='|118';l[5]='|111';l[6]='|103';l[7]='|46';l[8]='|97';l[9]='|108';l[10]='|111';l[11]='|110';l[12]='|64';l[13]='|110';l[14]='|97';l[15]='|104';l[16]='|112';l[17]='|100';l[18]='|110';l[19]='|48';l[20]='|50';l[21]='>';l[22]='"';l[23]='|118';l[24]='|111';l[25]='|103';l[26]='|46';l[27]='|97';l[28]='|108';l[29]='|111';l[30]='|110';l[31]='|64';l[32]='|110';l[33]='|97';l[34]='|104';l[35]='|112';l[36]='|100';l[37]='|110';l[38]='|48';l[39]='|50';l[40]=':';l[41]='o';l[42]='t';l[43]='l';l[44]='i';l[45]='a';l[46]='m';l[47]='"';l[48]='=';l[49]='f';l[50]='e';l[51]='r';l[52]='h';l[53]=' ';l[54]='a';l[55]='<'; for (var i = l.length-1; i >= 0; i=i-1){ if (l[i].substring(0, 1) == '|') document.write("&#"+unescape(l[i].substring(1))+";"); else document.write(unescape(l[i]));} //]]> ">

For other Quality of Life issues you may contact the Community Coordinator (CoCo) Officers below:

1st Police District at (504) 658-6010, or email Sgt. Kenny Temple at
2nd Police District at (504) 658-6020, or email Sgt. Ernie Joseph at
6th Police District at (504) 658-6060, or email Sgt. Yolanda Jenkins at
8th Police District at (504) 658-6080, or email Sgt. Jonette Williams at .

For all other complaints call: (504) 658-4000 and follow the prompts. If you get unacceptable results after contacting the numbers from above please email with all the info and we’ll follow up.

Courtesy the Linda Burns Collection

Artwork courtesy Amzie Adams
Los Po-Boy-Citos will be playing this year at the 22nd annual VOODOO on the BAYOU at the Pitot House at 1440 Moss Street in beautiful Faubourg St. John!
For more information about the 22nd annual VOODOO on the BAYOU please visit the link below:
http://voodooonthebayou.com

Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association
P.O. Box 19101
New Orleans, LA 70179


The Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association (FSJNA),

Have you ever seen a study for our neighborhood and said, “That’s not right! I wish I could do a study of the neighborhood myself.” Here is your chance.

Copy the link below to learn the who, what and why of creating a neighborhood property survey: http://library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1105780001694-170/NEIGHBORHOOD+SURVEY+recruitment+piece+TN.pdf

Email:

DIRECTOR OF VOLUNTEER SERVICES

U.S. Biennial, Inc, a non-profit organization, seeks a Volunteer Coordinator for the Prospect.2 New Orleans Biennial. This is a contract position, beginning September 2011 through the end of January 2012.

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic person that will help us galvanize the people of New Orleans to take part in and become part of Prospect.2 New Orleans, the second iteration of the international arts biennial that took the city with storm in 2008. H/She will design and implement a volunteer program that will train and assign individuals as greeters for the opening events, assisting museum groups, general visitors, artists and press; and as docents in the different venues.

The Volunteer Coordinator will work closely with the Hospitality and Education
Coordinators, interviewing and establishing schedules for volunteers, including local graduate and undergraduate students in the fine arts for docent positions. H/She will have an adequate departmental budget to cover all materials, meals, and transportation costs, and will receive full acknowledgment in the catalog and all appropriate printed materials for this key contribution to Prospect.2 New Orleans.

Founded by the curator Dan Cameron, Prospect New Orleans is one of the leading biennials of international contemporary art in the United States. Conceived in the tradition of the great international biennials, such as the Venice Biennale and the Bienal de São Paulo, Prospect New Orleans showcases new artistic practices from around the world in settings that are both historic and culturally exceptional, and contributes to the cultural economy of New Orleans and the Louisiana Gulf region by spurring cultural tourism and bringing international attention to the area’s vibrant visual arts community.

Prospect.2 is scheduled to open to the public on October 22, 2011, and will be on view until January 29, 2012. The current list of artists includes 27 artists from ten countries, including the United States, France, Italy, Sweden, Poland, Japan, Chile, and Vietnam.
In keeping with Prospect’s commitment to the promotion of the visual art community in New Orleans, this year’s biennial will feature work by several artists who live and work in the city, as well as a variety of site-specific projects inspired by the city’s distinctive history and culture and conceived specifically for the city of New Orleans.

The fee for this position is $12,000. Because this is a limited time contract, candidates are required to arrange their own health insurance and payroll tax deductions.

For more information please contact Ashley Chavis at .

HOSPITALITY COORDINATOR
This is a contract position, beginning September 2011 through the end of January 2012. The ideal candidate is someone who can manage a number of discrete but interconnected tasks simultaneously, who has experience
working within or in collaboration with the New Orleans’ tourism industry, and who is oriented toward a position in the field of cultural tourism.

Founded by the curator Dan Cameron, Prospect New Orleans is one of the leading biennials of international contemporary art in the United States. Conceived in the tradition of the great international biennials, such as the Venice Biennale and the Bienal de São Paulo, Prospect New Orleans showcases new artistic practices from around the world in settings that are both historic and culturally exceptional, and contributes to the cultural economy of New Orleans and the Louisiana Gulf region by spurring cultural tourism and bringing international attention to the area’s vibrant visual arts community.

Prospect.2 is scheduled to open to the public on October 22, 2011, and will be on view until January 29, 2012. The current list of artists includes 27 artists from ten countries, including the United States, France, Italy, Sweden, Poland, Japan, Chile, and Vietnam. In keeping with Prospect’s commitment to the promotion of the visual art community in New Orleans, this year’s biennial will feature work by several artists who live and work in the city, as well as a variety of site-specific projects inspired by the city’s distinctive
history and culture and conceived specifically for the city of New Orleans.

The duties and responsibilities of the Hospitality Coordinator are as follows, with time proportioned roughly according to the following percentages:

40% will be devoted to organizing and managing travel arrangements, flight and
hotel reservations, for all guests of Prospect.2 New Orleans, especially artists but also including VIPs, Trustees, and media. This includes overseeing the actual
expenditures and bookkeeping for travel, maintaining regular contact with the
hotels/b&b’s/guest houses and coordinating with the New Orleans CVB and
NOTMC.

30% will be spent working with the Development Director of U.S. Biennial to
identify and coordinate all travel requirements for Patrons, Museum Groups and
other VIP visitors during the Prospect.2 Inaugural Events, and to make sure that all activities involving those guests are coordinated with appropriate staff and liaisons.
This includes preparing a centralized list of all dinners, private parties and other
events not open to the public. 30% will be spent supervising and training the Prospect.2 ticketing system and staff and, in collaboration with the Volunteer Coordinator, the volunteers who will assist in visitor services.

Qualifications for this position include a master’s degree or equivalent
professional background in the field of tourism. Candidate must have a basic
competence level within the field of contemporary visual art, and to have had at least one full year professional experience working in the New Orleans hospitality industry. Candidates are required to provide at least two letters of recommendation attesting to interest, skills and experience, one of which must be from a previous employer.

The fee for this position is $12,000. Because this is a limited time contract,
candidates are required to arrange their own health insurance and payroll tax deductions.

For more information please contact Ashley Chavis at .

ACCION Texas-Louisiana
JOB OPENING

State Manager for Business Support and Compliance
The State Manager will have responsibility for managing a state-wide business support program including implementing a system to monitor and manage federal funds; and develop, cultivate, and grow business lending for ACCION Texas-Louisiana (ATL) in Louisiana. The position will report to the VP of LA
Operations.

Background:
ACCION Texas-Louisiana is a non-profit micro enterprise development program based in San Antonio with operations in Texas (Austin, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Dallas/Fort Worth, El Paso, Houston, Laredo, McAllen)
and in Louisiana (Alexandria, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Shreveport). ACCION Texas-Louisiana is dedicated to increasing incomes and creating jobs in low-income communities by providing micro-entrepreneurs with access to
credit and business support services not available from the commercial banking sector.

Qualifications and Skills:
• Passion for microfinance and the organizational mission of providing credit to small businesses that do not have access to loans from commercial sources
• Bachelors degree; Masters degree desired
• Minimum 5 years experience in a business or non-profit organization, to include demonstrated leadership and extensive skills pertaining to grant, foundation, and writing
• Experience managing government grants, specifically CDBG funds; familiarity with operational, financial and quality assurance procedures and regulations
• Understanding of the fundamentals of business, business finance and business lending
o Skilled at writing and formalizing business, marketing and strategic planning
o Ability to analyze and reconcile business financials
o Ability to provide guidance on cost and pricing products and services, market research and financial forecasting
o Ability to plan and conduct business workshops (financial management, marketing, managing cash flow, business credit, business plan development/implementation, human resource management, operations, tax issues, certification and contracting, etc.)
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, organizational and time management skills
• Problem-solver and results-oriented producer
• Capacity to manage relationships with a diverse audience, including staff, clients, bankers, consultants, foundation representatives, community leaders, and donors
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as experience with public speaking and facilitation of meetings required;
• Computer proficiency in MS Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Ability to work flexible hours to identify time sensitive issues, work within time restraints and consistently meet all deadlines, and travel throughout Louisiana.
• Committed to excellence and continuous improvement
• Supervisory and teamwork experience.
• Bilingual fluency (English/Spanish) a plus.

Salary and Benefits:
Salary; medical, dental and vision insurance; advancement opportunities, 401(k)

Send resume with cover letter and salary requirements to:
ACCION Texas / Human Resources email:
2014 S. Hackberry fax: 210-533-2940
San Antonio, TX 78210 website: http://www.acciontexas.org

Federal Jobs:
http://www.USAJOBS.gov

New Orleans Jobs:
http://www.workNOLA.com
http://www.nola.com/jobs/

Textron Jobs:
http://www.textronjobs.com

Blade Dynamics Jobs:

http://www.bladedynamics.com/jobs.html

City of New Orleans Jobs:

http://www.nola.gov/HOME/Job%20Opportunities

McDonald’s:
http://www.MCSTATE.COM

Jacobs Technology (Michoud):

www.cytiva.com/jacobs/jolts/tpl.asp

Department of Agriculture, Office of the
Chief Financial Officer jobs are located
at the Michoud Assembly Facility in
eastern New Orleans.

The Urban League of Greater New Orleans is pleased to announce its partnership with the Recovery Schools District in the rebuilding of New Orleans schools. As the mission of the Urban League is to assist African Americans and other underrepresented populations to achieve economic self-sufficiency and parity, our aim is to facilitate participation among minority, women-owned and other small firm contractors in the rebuilding of New Orleans area schools.

The RSD has put forth diverse “School Stabilization” projects that small firms can readily compete for. The Urban League’s Business Resource and Entrepreneurship Center is working with area contracting firms, providing training workshops and other business resources to aid these firms to gain access to the many upcoming schools rebuilding projects.

We encourage contracting firms who are interested in bidding on the upcoming RSD rebuilding projects, or those who are interested in increasing their organizations’ capacities to compete for future projects, to contact the Business Resource and Entrepreneurship Center at (504) 620-9647 or 620-2332 or email .

Written comments on the dockets below must be received by Wednesday, Sept. 21 at 6 p.m. to be included with the staff report.

CITY PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2011

PUBLIC HEARING:
1:30 P.M. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
(CITY HALL -1E07)

THE CITY PLANNING COMMISSION IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 16 OF THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE #4264 M.C.S., AS AMENDED, WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2011 IN THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER (CITY HALL -1E07) ON THE FOLLOWING PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING LAW OF THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS.

This meeting is accessible to people with disabilities. Requests for additional accommodations or any assistance to participate may be directed to the Office of Constituent Services at 504-658-4015 (voice), 504-658-4002 (facsimile), or the City’s TTY 504-586-4475. This communiqué is available in alternative formats upon request.

ZONING DOCKET 90/11 – Request by CITY COUNCIL MOTION M-11-385 for an amendment to the text of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, No. 4264 M.C.S., as amended, to amend Article 18, Section 18 to establish the District D Urban Corridor District IZD, to expand the area of applicability of Article 10, Section 10.1.2 Urban Corridor District to include all property zoned C-1 General Commercial District in the area generally bounded by Lake Pontchartrain, Downman Road, Chef Menteur Highway, Interstate 10, Seagull Lane, Dwyer Road, Crowder Boulevard, Morrison Road, and Shubrick Street within Council District D, not currently within the Urban Corridor or Highway Urban Corridor District boundaries.

ZONING DOCKET 91/11 – Request by THE JOINT ON POLAND, LLC for a Conditional Use to permit the sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption on-premises at a standard restaurant in a B-1 Neighborhood Business District on Square 181, Lot A Pts. 1 thru 19, in the Third Municipal District, bounded by Dauphine, France, Royal, and Mazant Streets. The municipal address is 701 MAZANT STREET. (ZBM E-14/PD 7)

ZONING DOCKET 92/11 – Request by FAUBOURG SAINT CHARLES, LLC for a Conditional Use to permit a parking lot in a CBD-7 Central Business District on Square 181, Lots 3 and 4, in the First Municipal District, bounded by St. Charles Avenue, Julia, Camp and St. Joseph Streets. The municipal address is 829 CAMP STREET. (ZBM C-14/PD 1A)

ZONING DOCKET 93/11 – Request by AUDUBON BEHAVORIAL HEALTH, LLC for a Zoning Change from an RD-2 Two-Family Residential District to a B-1 Neighborhood Business District, on Square 99, Lot 4, in the Seventh Municipal District, bounded by Cherokee, Burthe, Hillary and Maple Streets. The municipal address is 7513 MAPLE STREET. (ZBM A-14/PD 3)

ZONING DOCKET 94/11 – Request by 1522 ROBERT E. LEE, LLC for a Conditional Use to permit a fast food restaurant in a B-1 Neighborhood Business District, on Square C, Lot C-1, in the Third Municipal District, bounded by Robert E. Lee Boulevard, Hamburg, Aviators, and Perlita Streets. The municipal address is 1522 ROBERT E. LEE BOULEVARD. (ZBM D-10/PD 6)

ZONING DOCKET 95/11 – Request by M-LUND ENTERPRISES, LLC for a Conditional Use to permit a fast food restaurant in a C-1 General Commercial District and within the Inner-City Urban Corridor District, on Square 405, Lots J, I, H, G, F, E, L and X, in the Fourth Municipal District, bounded by South Claiborne and Washington Avenues, Sixth and Willow Streets. The municipal address is 2800 SOUTH CLAIBORNE AVENUE. (ZBM B-14/PD 2)

THE CITY PLANNING COMMISSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH ARTICLE 16 OF THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE 4264 MCS AS AMENDED, WILL HEAR ALL PROPONENTS AND OPPONENTS TO THE ABOVE PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING LAW OF THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS. ALL INTERESTED PARTIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND AND ALL RELEVANT COMMENTS CONCERNING THE PROPOSED CHANGES ARE ENCOURAGED. YOU MAY ALSO SUBMIT WRITTEN COMMENTS TO THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR IN ADVANCE BY MAIL (1340 POYDRAS STREET, SUITE 900, NEW ORLEANS, LA 70112) OR FAX (504-658-7032). ALL WRITTEN COMMENTS MUST BE RECEIVED BY CLOSE OF BUSINESS ON THE WEDNESDAY PRIOR TO THE HEARING DATE.

September 6, 13 and 20, 2011

Yolanda Rodriguez, Executive Director

Paul Cramer

Planning Administrator

New Orleans City Planning Commission

1340 Poydras Street # 900

New Orleans, LA 70112

Neighbors United is pleased to announce two fantastic events coming soon to our neighborhood. On Sept. 24, we will participate with the City of New Orleans for a “Fight the Blight Day” at Samuel Square Playground (Napoleon Avenue and Loyola Street).

On Oct. 11, we will hold our annual celebration of “Night Out Against Crime” in front of Samuel J. Green Charter School.

We hope to get 100 volunteers to Fight the Blight Day and 200 to 300 neighbors to attend Night Out Against Crime. We are very proud of these two events. We have been acknowledged as one of the biggest and best “Night Out Against Crime” block parties.

Neighbors United is a neighborhood organization for the Freret and Milan neighborhoods. Our funding comes primarily from membership dues. We can only do these events with help from merchants like you!

We would like each of these events to be a huge success. Please help with donations of food, door prizes, school supplies, live music, or other sundry party supplies. Please let us know what you can contribute. Contact or Dean Gancarz-Davies at
504-895-9481. We shall be following up if we don’t hear from you.

We are sincerely grateful for all of your support for our neighborhoods, our organization, and these fine events.

Sincerely,

Dean Gancarz-Davies
Neighbors United

With just over a month to go, we’re coming into the homestretch! The UNCF Walk for Education will take place on Saturday, October 1. It’s easy to get involved and show your support by starting a Walk for Education team. Together with our community partners, we’ve already raised $67,000 of our $200,000 goal.

Registration is only $30, and it includes a race t-shirt, free pass to Audubon Zoo, free refreshments and a morning of great entertainment for the whole family. UNCF provides scholarships, internships and even helps to keep costs low at Louisiana’s very own member institutions, Dillard and Xavier Universities. I encourage you to ask your neighbors, family and friends to join you – you never know whose life your $30 can change. But, you don’t have to take my word for it. Just have a look at this list of just some of our notable UNCF alumni who were helped by the generosity of people just like you:

Ø Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Civil Rights Activist & Humanitarian

Ø Alexis Herman, former U.S. Secretary of Labor

Ø Vice Admiral Regina Benjamin, U.S. Surgeon General

Ø John Mims, Sr. Vice President Starwood Hotels & Resorts

I invite you to support the amazing achievements of UNCF alumni and help to ensure our next generation of leaders can carry on the tradition. To register your Walk for Education team, please visit http://give.uncf.org/NewOrleansWalk or contact the UNCF office at 504-581-3794.

Remember: “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”

Mr. Jermaine L. Smith

Development Associate

NOLA Wise – A New Financing Opportunity for a Healthy and Efficient Home

Global Green USA proudly partners with the AIA, New Orleans Chapter, and USGBC, LA Chapter, to present a monthly panel and community discussion series on issues of sustainability and environmental responsibility.

This month, join Global Green USA Program Manager Camille Lopez to discuss NOLA WISE – an exciting new energy efficiency, job creation and financing program to help New Orleanians live comfortably, save energy, and save money. The program, in partnership with the City of New Orleans and the Department of Energy, helps New Orleans homeowners save at least 15% on their utility usage, connects homeowners to trusted, vetted, and nationally certified green contractors, and provides incentives and low interest loans to help pay for your upgrades.

We’ll discuss how to get involved with the NOLA WISE program, the process of screening and hiring a home energy rater, what energy efficiency measures you might install, and how you can reduce your project cost by accessing incentives. Green Coast Enterprises’ Co-Founder Reuben Teague will discuss the innovative financing options available to all homeowners or residential rental property owners in New Orleans, contractor selection, and how contractors can take advantage of job training opportunities available through the NOLA WISE program.

NOLA Wise: A New Financing Opportunity for a Healthy and Efficient Home
Wednesday, August 24th, 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Global Green USA’s Green Building Resource Center
841 Carondelet Street, New Orleans, LA 70130

Free and open to the public. Light refreshments served at 5:30 PM, panel presentation begins at 6:00 PM.

Very special thanks to our good friends at Whole Foods Market and Ste. Marie Restaurant for their generous support of our Sustainability Series.

For more information on this and past events, please see the Global Green USA website: http://globalgreen.org/bibg/calendar/ or contact Heidi Jensen at our Green Building Resource Center:

Staff Interpreter – The OPD is looking for someone who is fluent in Spanish, able to provide simultaneous Spanish/English interpretation, interested in pursuing certification in Spanish/English legal interpretation, and willing to work regular evening and weekend shifts and supervise interns. To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and list of three references to Benjamin Plener, or call 504-827-8242.

Immigration Staff Attorney – OPD is seeking an immigration attorney to launch OPD’s Immigration Services Project. OPD’s Immigration Services Project will be a critical element of our client-centered, community-oriented vision of public defense. The Immigration Services Project will advise OPD’s non-citizen clients of the full range of immigration consequences associated with their criminal cases, work with OPD defenders to mitigate negative immigration consequences, and provide direct representation to non-citizen clients in removal proceedings and affirmative applications for immigration benefits. To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and list of three references to CJ Hunt, or by calling 504-827-8250.

August 27- Sankofa Farmers Market moves the Holy Angels Complex at St. Claude Avenue and Gallier Street in the Upper 9th Ward. The market will continue to offer local foods from farmers, fishers, and bakers every Saturday from 10am to 2pm at the new location in the Upper 9th Ward.

September 10-Grand Opening for the Sankofa Farmers Market’s new location- 3500 St Claude at the Holy Angels Complex from 10am-2pm.

Along with the usual array of fresh local foods, the grand opening will feature live music from New Orleans funk band Yo Jimbo, health screenings with Daughters of Charity Health Center’s Mobile Unit, nutritional cooking demonstrations and tastings with LSU Ag Center, children’s art activities, and information on a variety of community services.

On Saturday, August 27, the Sankofa Farmers Market will move from its current location at 5500 St. Claude Ave to the Holy Angels Complex at 3500 St. Claude Ave. (corner of St Claude Avenue and Gallier Street). As many of you are aware, we began the monthly Sankofa Marketplace during August 2008 as a
group of community organizers and residents interested in progressive development in the Ninth Ward.

We transitioned into a weekly farmers market on November 20, 2010 for more farmers and fishers to offer fresh local produce to residents of the Ninth Ward and surrounding areas. We will be relocating to the Holy Angels Complex to expand our reach for both the vendors and market goers, and also provide a
sustainable space of business for local farmers and fishers.

The mission of Sankofa Community Development Corporation is to revitalize the New Orleans’ Ninth Ward and provide economic advancement, community engagement, healthy food access, arts and culture, education, and organizational partnerships. In addition to the Sankofa Farmers Market, we
operate the Sankofa School Garden, a nutrition, gardening, and financial literacy education project at KIPP Renaissance High School at Frederick Douglass. Furthermore, we are in discussions with the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority to develop an urban agriculture site in the Lower Ninth Ward to
revitalize vacant and blighted land and improve access to healthy food for residents.

Please join us at our new location on Saturday August 27, from 10AM to 2PM and also celebrate the grand opening with us on Saturday, September 10, in keeping with the Sankofa Farmers Market’s tradition of 2nd Saturday’s at the Market. Along with the usual array of fresh local foods, the grand
opening will also feature live music from New Orleans funk band Yojimbo, health screenings with Daughters of Charity Health Center’s Mobile Unit, nutritional cooking demonstrations and tastings with LSU Ag Center, children’s art activities, and information on a variety of community services.
In addition to our community partners and supporters, we would like to especially thank All Souls Episcopal Church and Community Center for their consistent support through sharing their building space and hosting the Market in their parking lot since 2008. We look forward to remaining in touch
with you about the move and seeing you on Saturday, August 27 at the Holy Angels Complex!

Please feel free to contact us at or at 504.875.4268 if you have any questions or need further information.

Sincerely,
Rashida Ferdinand
Executive Director
Sankofa Community Development Corporation
PO Box 775070
New Orleans, LA 70177

Executive Director
Reports to: Board of Directors
FLSA Status: Exempt
EEOC Job Code: Executives
Supervisor: Yes No
Prepared Date: 08/04/11

Organization Description:
Founded in 1971 during an era of intense political conflict, dramatic economic transformation, and pivotal
development, Twenty First Century Foundation (21CF) was envisioned as a permanent funding vehicle for
programs supportive of the development of the black community. Today, the Foundation is dedicated to support
black community change nationally by:
􀁸 Infusing a strong racial, systemic, and power analysis to issue identification, message framing and solution
development
􀁸 Increasing sustainability and effectiveness of poor & working class Black communities
􀁸 Strengthening organizational capacity with knowledge and skills in the areas of organizing, alliance-building,
fundraising, communications, research, policy advocacy & evaluation
􀁸 Creating mechanisms for donor education, engagement and investment to increase the health and well-being
of Black communities
􀁸 Increasing alliances and diverse constituencies for community and policy change
􀁸 Achieving policy wins that improve social and physical conditions of Black communities
􀁸 Leveraging new resources to 21CF and grantee organizations
For more information, visit http://www.21cf.org.
Position Summary:
Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible for shepherding the vision, mission, and
overall health (financial and otherwise) of the Foundation. The Executive Director is supported by a senior
leadership team that includes a program director, a development director, a finance manager and an
administrative director. The position calls for a creative and bold leader with outstanding strategic, communication
and fundraising skills, as well as thought leadership, political savvy, and an enterprising spirit. Demonstrated
passion for 21CF’s mission and vision is essential, as is a record of effective collaboration and inclusive staff
management.
The Executive Director is an exempt position. Exempt employees are expected to work the appropriate and
necessary time in order to complete key assignments and related tasks on schedule.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
In 2011, 21CF set forth a new Strategic Plan. The primary responsibilities of the Executive Director are as follows:
􀁸 Lead the Foundation’s new strategic plan, heightening visibility and branding
􀁸 Diversify revenues and catalyze the Foundation’s role as long-haul connectors and investors of pipeline
Black organizations
Executive Director
Executive Director – 21CF Page 2 of 4
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Provide Strategic and Visionary Leadership.
􀁸 Develop a bold, clear vision and mission for 21CF as it enters its next phase of investment and
programming. Translate that vision into focused strategies
􀁸 Articulate the concrete, specific policy and culture changes the Foundation will pursue and how it will
rigorously track progress and measure success
􀁸 Ensure that the organization is agile and strategically responsive to changing conditions, new trends, and
unexpected challenges
􀁸 Renew a powerful, long-term mission and vision for 21CF building on and leveraging the current strategic
plan and previous successes of the organization
􀁸 Serve as the organization’s leading public representative, funding /business development executive, and
spokesperson for the 21CF “brand” to key constituencies
􀁸 Develop an annual plan (to be presented to the Board of Directors for approval), and lead the
organization’s long-range strategic thinking, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of
impact.
Raise the Profile and Visibility of the Foundation.
􀁸 In addition to spotlighting the work of grantees, assertively promote the expertise, brand, and voice of the
Foundation itself
􀁸 Reach out to broad audiences through traditional and new avenues
􀁸 Ensure that the Foundation takes best advantage of new media, social networking, and other
technologies
􀁸 Take informed stands on relevant public policy issues and position 21CF as a “go-to” resource around
issues of equity and inclusion
􀁸 Consider mounting one or more public education campaigns around timely issues
􀁸 Serve personally as a dynamic spokesperson for the Foundation and its vision and mission.
Increase and Diversify Funding in a Changing Landscape for Philanthropy.
􀁸 Lead the Foundation’s fundraising through personal efforts, Board engagement, and through a strong and
well supported development team
􀁸 Pursue creative new avenues for revenue generation
􀁸 Articulate and define the strategic, bold, and clear niche and value added service 21CF provides in the
sector in the changing landscape larger funding organizations are going through
􀁸 Work to ensure the Foundation clearly defines its leverage points to make a clear case of support for
21CF
􀁸 Cultivate and steward the Foundations’ traditional base of individual supporters and reach new supporters
who are more diverse in age, race, and ethnicity than in the past
􀁸 Spearhead work to identify new revenue sources beyond traditional philanthropic channels
􀁸 Strategically leader Foundation’s fundraising and development efforts to include donor cultivation and
stewardship, particularly major individuals, corporate partnership/sponsorship, social venture, and
earned-income opportunities
􀁸 Identify potential (national and local) new initiatives and partnerships that help strengthen the Black
community and help generate revenue for the purpose of enhancing the mission and goals of 21CF
􀁸 Leverage the relationships and resources of the Board of Directors, volunteers, and staff.
Build Strong Partnerships and Strategic Alliances.
􀁸 Reinforce and strengthen relationships with other racial/social justice and policy organizations, and other
stakeholders/partners at the local, state and national levels
􀁸 Pursue strategic partnerships with these allies, and with new, less apparent, partners.
Serve as a Unifying and Decisive Staff Leader.
􀁸 Attract, lead, and retain the strongest possible staff and hold them to clearly defined, high standards of
excellence and accountability
Executive Director
Executive Director – 21CF Page 3 of 4
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􀁸 Sustain a supportive, collaborative and equitable working environment that encourages creativity at all
levels
􀁸 Ensure open channels of communication; align work across departments, transparency of decisionmaking
􀁸 Implement effective staff development programs
􀁸 Hold full authority to lead and manage the Senior Leadership Team
􀁸 Recruit and appoint; delegate appropriate operating authority to supervise, coach, develop and support;
and regularly monitor the performance of the Senior Leadership Team.
Develop and Manage Strong Operations and Fiscal Oversight.
􀁸 Establish an efficient, effective, entrepreneurial organizational structure and spirit, with clearly defined
responsibilities and lines of authority and accountability
􀁸 Ensure that appropriate fiscal controls and procedures are in place to assure transparency and
accountability. Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements
􀁸 Effectively structure budgets that reflect and integrate annual and multi-year operational plans, goals, and
strategic objectives
􀁸 Ensure that 21CF has a smooth and effective transition in Executive Director leadership.
Board Interface and Accountability for Performance.
􀁸 Work in partnership with the Chair of the Board to develop the Board meeting agendas and reports for the
Board
􀁸 Serve as a non-voting Director on the Board of Directors, and contribute to their governance as requested
by the Board
􀁸 Support the Nominating Committee “ex officio” and help to evaluate, recruit, and nominate new directors
for appointment by the 21CF Board
􀁸 Along with the Board Chair, develop the Board culture to one with a stronger fundraising and governing
capacity
􀁸 Inform staff of board policies and decisions and ensure that they are implemented in a timely and
consistent manner.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
􀁸 Proven ability to lead and grow a complex organization through the full spectrum of the business cycle
􀁸 Demonstrated track record in building strategic partnerships and ability to compete for and win
philanthropic support or partnerships from individuals, foundations, corporations, and other organizations
􀁸 Working knowledge of Black community issues (historical and current), progressive issues, the political
landscape, and the implications of new developments
􀁸 Ability to appreciate unique roles in the racial and social justice sector and has the ability to clearly
communicate an organization’s mission and work to external stakeholders
􀁸 Ability to work with a Board of Directors with a history of strengthening proper governance guidelines and
building the consensus necessary to ensure organizational success
􀁸 Creativity and innovation in assessing and identifying opportunities, partnerships, programs, and resource
development
􀁸 Able to facilitate competing interests and priorities to arrive at positive outcomes
􀁸 The proven ability to create constructive partnerships among diverse constituencies, to strength
consensus building, collaboration, and communication
􀁸 Effective verbal and written communications, including excellent public speaking skills for formal and
extemporaneous presentations. Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to use diplomacy
effectively both internally and externally
􀁸 Integrity and high ethical standards with a reputation for fairness and transparency
􀁸 Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment
􀁸 Strong sensitivity and commitment to cultural, racial, ethnic and socioeconomic diversity
Executive Director
Executive Director – 21CF Page 4 of 4
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􀁸 Demonstrated commitment to racial and social justice and civic engagement, especially in connection
with low-income Black communities
􀁸 Ability to get individuals, teams, and an entire organization to perform at a higher level of accountability
and productivity
􀁸 Ability to manage change for oneself and others
􀁸 High emotional intelligence and consistent ability to act in line with a clear and visible set of values and
beliefs.
Education and Experience:
􀁸 5+ years of demonstrated experience that embraces the following combination of relevant areas:
fundraising and/or business development, including successful record in cultivating and engaging
individuals, small businesses and corporate support, and institutional funding support
􀁸 An undergraduate degree is required. A graduate degree in a relevant field of study such as nonprofit
management, business or an MBA is highly preferred.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to
successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable
individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Must be able to clearly communicate with others to understand them and to be understood
• Must be able to read and compose documents so that their intent is easily understood
• Must be able to lift at least ten pounds from the floor to four (4) feet above the floor
• Must be able to effectively use a computer and telephone to conduct business
• Must be able to maneuver between two (2) floors and within small office spaces
• Must be able to handle a heavy travel schedule averaging 3-4 out of town trips per month as well as local
New York City public transportation.
Application Instructions:
Only candidates who meet the above-stated qualifications will be considered. Your resume MUST INCLUDE A
COVER LETTER EXPRESSING YOUR INTEREST IN WORKING TO SUPPORT 21CF AND WHY YOU ARE
QUALIFIED FOR THIS JOB. Please submit your application to . No phone calls please!
Equal Employment Opportunity:
21CF is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage and seek applications from women, people of
color, and bilingual and bicultural individuals, as well as members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender
communities. Applicants shall not be discriminated against because of race, religion, sex, national origin,
ethnicity, age, disability, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, color, marital status, or medical
condition including acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and AIDS-related conditions.
Applicants with Disabilities:
Reasonable accommodation will be made so that qualified disabled applicants may participate in the application
process. Please advise in writing of special needs at the time of application.

We’re Hiring!
We are excited to announce, thanks to the generosity of the Metropolitan Opportunities Fund at the Greater New Orleans Foundation, Transport for NOLA is hiring an Executive Director. Please forward this email to anyone you know that is:
Enthusiastic about alternative forms of transit
Excellent at organizing individuals and groups
Possesses interest in and willingnesss to learn about transit issues
Ready to make a difference here in New Orleans
View the full job description here.

Why work for Transport for NOLA? Here are a few of the exciting things we are working on this fall:

Neighborhoods Partnership Network Capacity College

TfNOLA is working with NPN developing a curriculum to educate community leaders about transit planning, operations decision-making, and long-term funding opportunities. The partnership kicks off this month with a Transit Summit with local transit decision makers from the City, RTA, RPC and non-profit organizations meeting the Capacity College members and explaining their agencies roles. Keep an eye out for future events!

Neighborland

Our friends at Neighborland have created a great platform for connecting with neighbors around issues that are important to you. Four of the top five most popular ideas on the site are transit related. In an effort to connect their users with tools to advocate for transit needs in their neighborhoods, we are helping develop a transit installment in their Neighborland Handbook.

Transit Week 2011

Mark your calendars! Transit Week 2011 is scheduled for November 6th – 12th. This year we are excited to be partnering with a number of local organizations including the RTA, the Monumental Task Committee, and Yelp. Look for event announcements over the next few weeks – and start putting a team together for the scavenger hunt on November 12th!

CITY PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2011
1:30 P.M. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
(CITY HALL 1E07)

A. PUBLIC HEARING:

THE CITY PLANNING COMMISSION IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 16 OF THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE NUMBER 4264 M.C.S., AS AMENDED, WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2011, IN THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER (CITY HALL 1E07), ON THE FOLLOWING PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING LAW OF THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS.

This meeting is accessible to people with disabilities. Requests for additional accommodations or any assistance to participate may be directed to the Office of Constituent Services at 504-658-4015 (voice), 504-658-4002 (fax), or the City’s TTY 504-586-4475. This communiqué is available in alternative formats upon request.

1. ZONING DOCKET 79/11 – Request by POYDRAS HOME for an amendment to Ordinance No. 18,858 MCS (ZD 39/98, a Conditional Use to permit a monopole), to permit the expansion of an existing home for the aged greater than 25,000 square feet and within 150 feet of a residential district in an MS Medical Service District, on Square 186 on an undesignated lot, in the Sixth Municipal District, bounded by Jefferson Avenue, Magazine, Leontine and Laurel Streets. The municipal address is 5354 MAGAZINE STREET. (ZBM A-15/PD 3)

2. ZONING DOCKET 80/11 – Request by ARABELLA STATION, LLC for an Amendment to Ordinance No. 20,253 MCS (ZD 34/01, a Zoning Change from a B-2 Neighborhood Business District and RD-4 Two-Family Residential District to a C-1A General Commercial District and a Conditional Use to permit a retail use greater than 10,000 square feet in floor area and a mini-warehouse), to modify provisos to permit expanded hours for loading and trash pickup, an increase in the number of eighteen wheel trucks permitted to deliver merchandise to the site in a calendar day, expanded hours of operation, the display of merchandise outside the building, and live entertainment on the premises, on Square 26, Lot 1-A in the Sixth Municipal District, bounded by Magazine, Joseph, Constance and Arabella Streets. The municipal address is 5600 MAGAZINE STREET. (ZBM A-15/PD 3)

3. ZONING DOCKET 81/11 – Request by ST. CLAUDE/ST. ROCH REVITALIZATION, LLC and RICHARDS VS, LLC for a Zoning Change from an HMC-2 Historic Marigny/Treme Commercial District to an HMLI Historic Marigny/Treme Light Industrial District and a Conditional Use to allow commercial activity permitted in a C-1 General Commercial District, on Square 370, Lots 101, B and C, in the Third Municipal District, bounded by Saint Claude and Saint Roch Avenues, Spain and North Rampart Streets. The municipal address is 2372 SAINT CLAUDE AVENUE. (ZBM D-13/PD 7)

4. ZONING DOCKET 82/11 – Request by MONTGOMERY VENTURES, LTD for an amendment to Ordinance No. 20,062 M.C.S. (ZD 99/00, a Conditional Use to permit an automobile service center in a B-2 Neighborhood Business District and within the UC Urban Corridor Overlay District) to permit a medical clinic having between 2,500 and 5,000 square feet of floor area, on Square 205, Lot 1, in the Fifth Municipal District, bounded by General DeGaulle Drive, Bender Boulevard, Behrman Place and Memorial Park Drive. The municipal address is 3801 GENERAL DEGAULLE DRIVE. (ZBM E-16/PD 12)

5. ZONING DOCKET 83/11 – Request by TUMBLEWEED PROPERTIES, INC for an Amendment to Ordinance No. 23,630 M.C.S. (ZD 14/09, a Conditional Use to permit the expansion of an existing bar and to include restaurant service in an existing structure in a B-2 Neighborhood Business District), to permit the expansion of the restaurant space and a second floor addition for office and storage space, on Square 26, Lot B-C & D, in the Sixth Municipal District, bounded by Magazine, Constance and Webster Streets and Henry Clay Avenue. The municipal addresses are 6100-6108 MAGAZINE STREET. (ZBM A-15/PD 3)

B. PROPERTY ACQUISITION PUBLIC HEARING:

THE CITY PLANNING COMMISSION IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROVISIONS OF THE REVISED STATUTES OF THE STATE OF LOUISIANA AND THE CITY CHARTER REGARDING PROPERTY ACQUISITIONS, WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2011 FOLLOWING THE ZONING PUBLIC HEARING, IN THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER (CITY HALL 1E07)ON THE FOLLOWING PROPOSED PROPERTY ACQUISITION.

This meeting is accessible to people with disabilities. Requests for additional accommodations or any assistance to participate may be directed to the Office of Constituent Services at 504-658-4015 (voice), 504-658-4002 (fax), or the City’s TTY 504-586-4475. This communiqué is available in alternative formats upon request.

1. PROPERTY ACQUISITION 1/11 – Consideration of the acquisition of Lots 5, 6, 7, 8-A, 8-B, 14, 15, 16 and 17, Square 682, in the Third Municipal District, bounded by Caffin and N. Claiborne Avenues, Lamanche and N. Robertson Streets for a new fire station.(ZBM E-14/PD 8)

C. ZONING MEETING: Follows Public Hearings

1. Adoption of the Zoning minutes of the August 9, 2011 Zoning Meeting.

2. FURTHER CONSIDERATION – ZONING DOCKET 63/11 – Request by CITY OF NEW ORLEANS for a Conditional Use to permit a neighborhood center in a C-1A General Commercial District and an RD-3 Two-Family Residential District on Square 350, on an undesignated lot in the Third Municipal District, bounded by Saint Claude and Poland Avenues, Lesseps and North Rampart Streets. The municipal address is 4300 SAINT CLAUDE AVENUE. (ZBM E-14/PD 7) (EA/KC/CM) (DEFERRED FROM THE JULY 26, 2011 MEETING)

3. FURTHER CONSIDERATION – ZONING DOCKET 73/11 – Request by CITY COUNCIL MOTION M-11-256 for a Conditional Use to permit increases in height and floor area ratio and a non-accessory parking garage in a CBD-3 Central Business District on Square 95, Lots A, B, 2, 8 or G, H, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, and alley in the Second Municipal District, bounded by Canal, North Rampart, Iberville and Burgundy Streets. The municipal address is 1031 CANAL STREET. (ZBM C-14/PD 1A) (SCK/EA/LM/CM) (DEFERRED FROM THE AUGUST 9, 2011 MEETING)

4. CONSIDERATION – ZONING DOCKET 79/11 – Request by POYDRAS HOME for an amendment to Ordinance No. 18,858 MCS (ZD 39/98, a Conditional Use to permit a monopole), to permit the expansion of an existing home for the aged greater than 25,000 square feet and within 150 feet of a residential district in an MS Medical Service District, on Square 186 on an undesignated lot, in the Sixth Municipal District, bounded by Jefferson Avenue, Magazine, Leontine and Laurel Streets. The municipal address is 5354 MAGAZINE STREET. (ZBM A-15/PD 3) (EA/KC/DT)

5. CONSIDERATION – ZONING DOCKET 80/11 – Request by ARABELLA STATION, LLC for an Amendment to Ordinance No. 20,253 MCS (ZD 34/01, a Zoning Change from a B-2 Neighborhood Business District and RD-4 Two-Family Residential District to a C-1A General Commercial District and a Conditional Use to permit a retail use greater than 10,000 square feet in floor area and a mini-warehouse), to modify provisos to permit expanded hours for loading and trash pickup, an increase in the number of eighteen wheel trucks permitted to deliver merchandise to the site in a calendar day, expanded hours of operation, the display of merchandise outside the building, and live entertainment on the premises, on Square 26, Lot 1-A in the Sixth Municipal District, bounded by Magazine, Joseph, Constance and Arabella Streets. The municipal address is 5600 MAGAZINE STREET. (ZBM A-15/PD 3) (SKK/JT)

6. CONSIDERATION – ZONING DOCKET 81/11 – Request by ST. CLAUDE/ST. ROCH REVITALIZATION, LLC and RICHARDS VS, LLC for a Zoning Change from an HMC-2 Historic Marigny/Treme Commercial District to an HMLI Historic Marigny/Treme Light Industrial District and a Conditional Use to allow commercial activity permitted in a C-1 General Commercial District, on Square 370, Lots 101, B and C, in the Third Municipal District, bounded by Saint Claude and Saint Roch Avenues, Spain and North Rampart Streets. The municipal address is 2372 SAINT CLAUDE AVENUE. (ZBM D-13/PD 7) (EA/KC/CM)

7. CONSIDERATION – ZONING DOCKET 82/11 – Request by MONTGOMERY VENTURES, LTD for an amendment to Ordinance No. 20,062 M.C.S. (ZD 99/00, a Conditional Use to permit an automobile service center in a B-2 Neighborhood Business District and within the UC Urban Corridor Overlay District) to permit a medical clinic having between 2,500 and 5,000 square feet of floor area, on Square 205, Lot 1, in the Fifth Municipal District, bounded by General DeGaulle Drive, Bender Boulevard, Behrman Place and Memorial Park Drive. The municipal address is 3801 GENERAL DEGAULLE DRIVE. (ZBM E-16/PD 12) (MM/LM/LF)

8. CONSIDERATION – ZONING DOCKET 83/11 – Request by TUMBLEWEED PROPERTIES, INC for an Amendment to Ordinance No. 23,630 M.C.S. (ZD 14/09, a Conditional Use to permit the expansion of an existing bar and to include restaurant service in an existing structure in a B-2 Neighborhood Business District), to permit the expansion of the restaurant space and a second floor addition for office and storage space, on Square 26, Lot B-C & D, in the Sixth Municipal District, bounded by Magazine, Constance and Webster Streets and Henry Clay Avenue. The municipal addresses are 6100-6108 MAGAZINE STREET. (ZBM A-15/PD 3) (SKK/LM/DT)

D. PLANNING MEETING:

1. Adoption of the Planning minutes of the August 9, 2011 Planning Meeting.

PROPERTY ACQUISITIONS/DISPOSITIONS:

2. CONSIDERATION – PROPERTY ACQUISITION 1/11 – Consideration of the acquisition of Lots 5, 6, 7, 8-A, 8-B, 14, 15, 16 and 17, Square 682, in the Third Municipal District, bounded by Caffin and N. Claiborne Avenues, Lamanche and N. Robertson Streets for a new fire station.(ZBM E-14/PD 8) (DT)

3. CONSIDERATION – PROPERTY DISPOSITION 3/11 – Consideration of a sale of a 5 ft. by 50 ft. portion of McKenna Street adjacent to Square 143, Lot 45-A-1, Burtheville, in the Sixth Municipal District, bounded by Versailles Blvd., MeKenna, Calhoun and York Streets.(ZBM B-14/PD 3) (CM)

STREET NAME CHANGE:

4. CONSIDERATION – STREET NAME CHANGE 3/11 – Consideration of a street name change from Girod Street to Dave Dixon Drive between LaSalle Street and West Stadium Drive. (ZBM C-14/PD 1) (CM)

5. RATIFICATIONS:

i. CONSIDERATION – Ratification of the Executive Director’s Actions Relative to Certified Subdivisions. (AB)

ii. CONSIDERATION – Ratification of the Executive Director’s Actions Relative to Personnel Matters. (YR)

6. OTHER PLANNING MATTERS:

i. Executive Director’s Reports on Various Activities. (YR)

ii. Committee Reports.

iii. Announcements by Chairman. (CM)

iv. Adjournment – the next meeting is scheduled for September 13, 2011.

Yolanda Rodriguez
Executive Director

Paul Cramer
Planning Administrator
New Orleans City Planning Commission
1340 Poydras Street # 900
New Orleans, LA 70112

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: YOUTH ORGANIZER

The Juvenile Justice Project of Louisiana (JJPL) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to reforming Louisiana’s juvenile justice system. Since 1997, JJPL’s successes include: driving all private, for-profit juvenile prisons from the state, the shut down of two juvenile prisons including the infamous Tallulah facility, a successful campaign to pass Act 1225 – the Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 2003 – legislation committing Louisiana to reducing its reliance on secure care and increasing alternatives to incarceration close to children’s homes, and helping to lead the revision of the Recovery School District (RSD) school discipline code to reduce the number of suspensions and expulsions in New Orleans . JJPL’s mission is to transform the juvenile justice system into one that builds on the strengths of young people, families and communities in order to instill hope and to ensure that children are given the greatest opportunities to grow and to thrive. One of our primary objectives to achieve our mission is increasing the power of communities most impacted by the juvenile justice system. JJPL’s youth organizing program, Young Adults Striving for Success (YASS), was founded in 2008 as a membership led-project to amplify the voices of youth in public policy and to provide a space for young people, many of whom have been court involved, to develop leadership skills and to empower their communities.

YASS/JJPL is a member of The Power of a Million Minds Youth Collaborative (POMM), a city-wide coalition of five different youth organizations. The Collaborative is an equal partnership between YASS and four other youth organizations, including:

Fyre Youth Squad
Fyre Youth Squad (FYS) is a diverse group of self determined youth ages 14-24 living in the greater New Orleans area who want to effect positive educational change and create a “world-class” learning environment in all New Orleans Public Schools. FYS is a youth led, youth governed organization that meets twice a week after school to discuss pertinent issues plaguing the New Orleans educational institutions. FYS actively seeks to create solutions for the many problems facing New Orleans’ public school students, advocates for accountability of elected officials and policy makers, and promotes awareness and activism among the children and youth of New Orleans.

Vietnamese American Young Leaders Association
Vietnamese American Young Leaders Association (VAYLA-NO) is a youth-led community-based organization that focuses on youth organizing and development in New Orleans. VAYLA-NO is dedicated to empowering Vietnamese-Americans and underrepresented youth through services, cultural enrichment, and social change. Young community leaders founded VAYLA-NO in 2006 as a means to reach out to the larger community to create a voice and organize to address the needs in the local community. Committed to youth development, community empowerment, higher education, and cultural awareness, VAYLA-NO is composed of young leaders, high school and college students who want to engage and empower others educationally, psychologically, physically, and spiritually.

Kids Rethink New Orleans Schools
Kids Rethink New Orleans Schools (Rethink) is a civic engagement program for middle school youth who want a voice in the rebuilding of New Orleans public school system. Rethink has six after-school clubs at public schools and a citywide program which includes a summer program and weekend action committees. Rethink works to inform polices that ensure excellence in education for all New Orleans youth.

LatiNOLA Youth Leadership Council
The LatiNola Youth Leadership Council (LYLC) is a group of inter-ethnic, primarily Latino, high school students who promote leadership development and civic engagement among their peers at their schools and in their communities, and who work to improve conditions for all of New Orleans’ diverse youth, especially its growing immigrant populations.

JJPL is currently hiring a Full Time Youth Organizer, whose time will be split equally between supporting YASS and developing POMM. Responsibilities of the position will include:

· Connect with, engage, community members from a wide range of background, experience, and capacities.

· Field organizing/field canvassing experience.

· Participate in regular base meetings and trainings

· Base-building and outreach to increase membership in YASS and POMM as needed

· Develop and maintain systems for keeping accurate lists and reports about contacts, events, and etc.
· Responsible for Logistics for YASS and POMM
· Development of outreach materials for YASS and POMM
· Point on facilitating in the development of an organizing campaign with POMM through strategic planning.
· Supervision of youth members of YASS and POMM on all activities including but not limited to out of city trips, enrichment activities, and out of state.
· Full integration of YASS members within the work of Juvenile Justice Project of Louisiana
· Manage implementation of Political/Social education of YASS members and POMM members.
· Facilitate planning of all events such as summits, actions, and learning circles for POMM

Qualifications:

Applicant should be a leader as well as collaborative worker. They should be highly motivated, have excellent written and communication skills and enjoy working with teenagers and young adults. Applicants should be self-motivated and willing to work long hours when necessary. Commitment to the youth of New Orleans metropolitan area and reliable transportation is a must, as is past experience working with youth. Community organizing experience is strongly preferred.

Salary and Benefits:

The position has full-benefits and provides salary commensurate with experience.

To Apply:

Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to Dana Kaplan, at . The position is open until filled, although we strongly recommend submitting application materials by September 15th, 2011 for maximum consideration. Unfortunately, we are not able to accept phone calls or answer questions regarding the position at this time.

This year marks the 24th anniversary of the UNCF New Orleans Walk for Education. UNCF New Orleans invites you to celebrate with us at this family-friendly community event on Saturday, October 1, 2011, from 7:30 am until 1:00 pm. Our 5K Walk/Run will start in the beautiful Audubon Park Riverview area behind Audubon Park & Zoo.

This year, our goal is to raise $200,000 to help deserving students get to and through college. Over the last decade in Louisiana, UNCF has helped over 800 underrepresented Louisiana students attend college with over $3.5 million in scholarship support. Our work relies on the support of corporations, businesses, clubs, schools, organizations and volunteers who help to make the dream of a college education a reality for our students.

A minimum pledge of $30 entitles you to a race number, official race day T-shirt, free food and drinks and admission to Audubon Zoo!

Click the link below to come out and support Louisiana students and enjoy a great day at the park!

UNCF 24th Annual Walk for Education

PNOLA is hiring for several Site Manager and Project Manager positions. Site Managers do the day to day construction work with the assistance of volunteers, while Project Managers are in charge of project logistics. Both positions are an integral part of our mission of making the rebuilding process easy and affordable to the homeowner. For more information, visit http://pnola.org/hiring.

HOMESTAY HOSTS NEEDED for Convergence Attendees on Wednesday June 22

ENGAGE, a national network of organizers, educators, students, volunteers and citizens working for just and sustainable communities, will host its annual Convergence in New Orleans next week!

We are looking for 25 homestay hosts on Wednesday, June 22 with room for 2 people to sleep. We would like hosts to pick the two people at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday night, and drop them off Thursday morning at 8 a.m. at 3043 St. Philip St. (N. Salcedo). We can provide transportation either way if needed.

We welcome neighbors and homestay hosts to join us for the Welcoming BBQ between 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Dinner will be by donation and please RSVP.

Contact David at 504-383-3636 or email to host someone and RSVP for the BBQ!

Neighborhoods Partnership Network

A message from community leaders in the Broadmoor Neighborhood

There’s been some confusion over when Richard’s Disposal collects recyclables in Broadmoor. Hopefully, this message will clear it up.

Subgroup A (borders: Northside of Fountainbleu Ave and South Broad St. to South Jeff Davis Pkwy. and Washington Ave): put your recyclables out on Thursday for Friday pickup.

Subgroup B (borders: Claiborne Ave, downtown side of Napoleon Ave to Toledano St. and south side of Broad St.): put your recyclables out on Tuesday for Wednesday pickup.

Subgroup C (borders: Claiborne Ave, Audubon Park side of Napoleon Ave to south side of Fountainbleu Ave to Nashville Ave): put your recyclables out on Wednesday for Thursday pickup.

If you have any questions about the collection schedule, please call Richard’s Disposal’s Customer Service at (504) 241-2142.

If you haven’t received a recycling bin, you can register here: http://www.nola.gov/RESIDENTS/Department-Of-Sanitation/Curbside-Recycling/

For a Broadmoor map with subgroups, click here: http://broadmoorimprovement.com/node/22

Broadmoor Improvement Association
4520 South Derbigny Street
New Orleans, LA 70125
504-309-2561

New Orleans, La.—This year, The Infinity Initiative was awarded a UnitedHealth HEROES grant by Youth Service America (YSA). The UnitedHealth HEROES program is a service-learning, health literacy initiative developed by UnitedHealth Group and Youth Service America. The program awards grants to help youth, ages 5-25, create and implement local, hands-on programs to fight childhood obesity. Each grant engages participating youth in service-learning, an effective teaching and learning strategy that supports student learning, academic achievement, and workplace readiness. The grants encourage semester-long projects that launched on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service (January 17, 2011) and culminate on Global Youth Service Day (April 15-17, 2011).

The Infinity Initiative’s collaborative effort with Birmingham, Alabama based fitness coach, KJ Hill, will bring the SaVY (Strong and Virtuous Youth) Health & Wellness Tour to teens in Birmingham. The Tour is a research-based program that will be presented afterschool in an effort to teach a group of middle school students in Birmingham the importance of making quality decisions about health.

“The best way to promote responsibility for health is equipping people with skills for (1) understanding health and wellness and (2) understanding the importance of maintaining both through health literacy”, says Sheryl Landry, Founder of The Infinity Initiative. “Coach” KJ Hill (Founder of Fitness Fleet) presently works as a volunteer in schools teaching children how to be more physically active and physically fit. He notes his own struggle with being “an overweight child” and not learning about the negative effect of certain foods until he “was 360 lbs. and very unhealthy.” Says Hill, “I believe it is a noble [project]. I always seek ventures that will help me in my own health journey. As I learn, I teach […] parents on how to continue a healthy legacy through their kids with cooking, choosing healthy foods and surrounding them with a healthy environment.”

The SaVY Health & Wellness Tour is a fun, interactive service-learning project that is designed to bring awareness by providing health, wellness and positive lifestyle options to female youth and young women. For additional information or to host The Tour in your community, contact Sheryl Landry of The Infinity Initiative at .

Stop worrying about spring street flooding and soggy spots in your yard, and come learn how to live with our rain. Demetria Christo of EcoUrban LLC will be on hand to talk about managing water in your yard through easy measures like rain barrels, rain gardens, and permeable landscaping. You’ll never have to water your lawn again! The workshop will include a tour of Global Green’s LEED Platinum Holy Cross Project, where you can see these techniques in action.

For more information, visit http://globalgreen.org/bibg/calendar/ or call (504) 525-2121.

Fellow LGSAC members and Lafitte Greenway community,
Please mark your calendars for the next meeting of the Lafitte
Greenway Steering Advisory Committee on Friday, March 11 (the Friday
after Mardi Gras). Please note that there will be no February meeting
for LGSAC. As you all are aware, we continue to await finalization of
a new contract for planning and design of the Lafitte Corridor
Greenway/Trail Design and Corridor Revitalization Plan between the
City of New Orleans and the selected planning team principals, Design
Workshop.
In other developments, the collaborative effort to create a series of
informational kiosks continues, as do plans to remove the FEMA trailer
infrastructure from the former LIFT site. Planning is also underway
for the sixth annual Hike the Corridor event later this spring,
organized by Friends of Lafitte Corridor.
The focus of the March meeting of the Steering Advisory Committee will
be environmental assessment and remediation. I am working to engage
speakers/participants who can update us on the City’s process for
assessing environmental conditions along the Lafitte Corridor, and who
can help us understand the types of environmental or cleanup
challenges that redevelopment of an inner city urban site like the
Lafitte Corridor is likely to present. Any and all suggestions for
whom to invite to help us address these issues are appreciated.
Hopefully there will also be good news to share on the contract to
start this project!
Attached please find the approved minutes of our October 2010 LGSAC
meeting.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support.

Sincerely,
Daniel Samuels
Chair, Lafitte Greenway Steering Advisory Committee

YOU’RE INVITED!

Come join the fun as we launch the March/April issue of The Trumpet! The theme is Neighborhood Revitalization and we will spotlight the Pines Village Neighborhood Association, Melia Subdivision and Rosedale Neighborhood Association. There will be lots of fish, seafood pasta to eat, plenty of drinks and local entertainment as we say goodbye to the Carnival season and hello to spring time in New Orleans!

Tell your neighbors, tell your family, tell your friends; come out and support The Trumpet Magazine — “Community Voices Orchestrating Change.”

Build Now Recommendations on Blight and Recovery:

Suggested strategies, topics of discussion, and possible solutions

Build Now is a local non-profit that has constructed more than thirty new homes in New Orleans’ flooded neighborhoods. Three years of daily conversations with families who remain displaced as a result of Hurricane Katrina have taught us that every household has its own story. Families who were able to rebuild in the first five years after Katrina were the “easy cases” – relatively speaking. The hurdles facing those who are still displaced are as considerable as they are diverse; it will take a sustained effort to repopulate the remaining properties. Below are Build Now’s recommendations on how neighborhood leaders, non-profits, and government agencies can work together to support the continued reconstruction of New Orleans’ flooded neighborhoods.

(With any questions on the suggestions presented here, please contact Tess Monaghan, Executive Director of Build Now, at (504) 324-3964 or .)

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Develop a single, comprehensive, parcel-level database to coordinate rebuilding efforts

A tool to collect and share comprehensive parcel-level data will provide a solid platform for effective collaboration. Authorized users from neighborhood groups, non-profits, and City and State government could input and view information on:

- Property ownership

- Blight status as reported by City blight inspectors and by neighborhood organizations

- Status of Code Enforcement violation proceedings

- Road Home Option 1, 2, 3, or Small Rental Program participation

- Road Home Option 1 compliance status

- Homeowner’s intent to return

- Homeowner’s contact information

- Obstacles preventing homeowner from rebuilding

It is likely that privacy concerns would necessitate differentiated access levels for different users to protect confidential information. But the legal and logistical complications would be well worth working through. Benefits of such a database would include:

- Enable City and State to coordinate efforts around redevelopment of Road Home properties

- Facilitate analysis of aggregate additional resources required to complete reconstruction of Option 1 properties

- Allow for data pulls grouping properties based on compliance/blight status, pre- vs. post-storm vacancy, and more

- Create a means by which abandoned and vacant properties can be classified by owner’s intent to return and rebuild; those who want rebuilding assistance can be funneled to the appropriate source of support and the remaining properties can be transferred to LLT/NORA

Currently, neighborhood groups, city and state agencies, and non-profits are tracking blighted and vacant properties via a number of different systems. To maximize efficiencies in the collection and management of data and avoid duplication of efforts, we advise that City and State agencies collaborate with non-profits and neighborhood organizations to create a single, unified database.

Promote cooperation between government, neighborhood leaders, and non-profits

Community organizations want to see progress in their neighborhoods and are willing to do their part to help. However, beyond reporting Code Enforcement violations, they have no clear avenue to support the rebuilding process. Individual neighborhoods have developed best practices around the collection and tracking of blight and vacancy data. Cooperation amongst neighborhoods and between neighborhoods and city and state agencies can improve citywide data availability. Neighborhoods can provide data on the status of individual parcels, while government agencies can provide information on whether a parcel is owned by NORA or LLT, received Option 1 or Small Rental Program funding, and is or is not in compliance with Road Home covenants.

Neighborhood organizations and non-profits are a valuable resource in the fight to rebuild New Orleans. A database that accepts user-generated input will enable these groups both to both access information crucial to the redevelopment of their neighborhoods, and submit parcel-level data on their neighborhood in a standardized format, making it accessible to city and state agencies. Umbrella groups that act as a link between neighborhood associations and government, such as the Gentilly Civic Improvement Association (GCIA), Lakeview Civic Improvement Association (LCIA), Neighborhoods Partnership Network (NPN), and Beacon of Hope, can help policymakers shape programs and systems to align with the capabilities and needsof the neighborhoods.

Rebuilding Road Home Option 1 properties is key to fight blight

Too often, the discussion on blight in New Orleans is presented separately from hurricane recovery. Road Home Option 1 properties “may represent the largest single source of blight in the city” according to the Greater New Orleans Community Data Center, “with potentially as many as 10,000 properties in this category citywide. … Failing to address these property owners proactively will leave the State and City in the position of having to spend precious limited resources in legal action and code enforcement for many years before these properties can be acquired and remediated.”* Blight linked to our city’s 40-year population decline is quite different from blight resulting from a lack of available rebuilding resources.

Many Option 1 homeowners still wish to rebuild, despite the financial, logistical, and/or personal obstacles that may have delayed them, and can do so with a little assistance. The City and State should prioritize either helping Option 1 recipients find the resources they need to meet the obligations of their covenants or converting them to Option 2. Helping Option 1 property owners reoccupy their abandoned properties in New Orleans is a valuable tool to reduce blight – especially when the projected costs to acquire and maintain the property to commerce exceed the amount the property owner needs to finish construction. Those who cannot or do not wish to rebuild can convert to Option 2, and title can be transferred more easily than when a property is seized through code liens. If a homeowner is committed to rebuilding, the City of New Orleans should consider spending money to help them rebuild rather than to seize their property, maintain it, and return it to commerce.

Direct contact with property owners is necessary to rebuild Option 1 properties

City property records, site visits by neighbors, and Road Home data attest to the current status of Road Home Option 1 and other abandoned properties. However, direct contact with the owner is required to assess the obstacles standing in the way of rebuilding the property and to determine the best course to bring the property back into commerce. Does the owner want to return, or would they rather sell their property? If they want to return, what assistance or how much money would they need to rebuild and reoccupy their property? Is their financing gap a result of contractor fraud, a forced mortgage pay-off, inappropriate use of Road Home funds, or an insufficient initial payout from Road Home and insurance?

Data on what is keeping property owners from rebuilding is needed to drive the creation of solutions appropriate to the specific needs of our city. We need to determine how many dollars worth of supervision, how many hours of volunteer labor, how many hours of case management, how many dollars worth of supplies, and how many hours of legal assistance will be required to accomplish various rebuilding milestones. From there, we can set goals based on available resources and neighborhood priorities.

OCD and the Beacon of Hope are developing a program to reach out directly to owners of homes whose Road Home Option 1 covenants have expired. The content of the conversations the Beacon representatives will have with homeowners is crucial to the success of this program. We need to make sure the Beacon program asks the right questions so that the data collected can be used to assess the needs of Option 1 homeowners and to generate solutions. Cooperation around the OCD/the Beacon of Hope Pilot Program holds the potential to expand our understanding of the ongoing needs of displaced Option 1 property owners.

Align additional funding with need and commitment to rebuild

Almost universally, the owners of unreconstructed properties need additional funding to bring their property into compliance. Inadequate grants, contractor fraud, strict credit requirements, and other factors have created financing gaps that homeowners cannot solve on their own. Allocation of the ~$100M remaining in the Road Home program should be based on the owner’s need as well as their commitment to return and reoccupy their property.

A State-funded construction loan program could address remaining gaps while providing responsible oversight. To ensure accountability, funds from this program could be paid directly to licensed contractors based on a predetermined draw schedule. Depending on a client’s financials, at the end of the job the client could obtain a permanent or reverse mortgage through a bank, or the client could make payments to the State for the lifespan of the loan. Build Now recommends that the Office of Community Development prioritize distribution of remaining funds in order to maximize number of reoccupied units. Additionally, the State should create alternate funding mechanisms, whether grants or loans, to fill the remaining financing gaps as needed.

Empower families with information on non-profits and qualified builders

Many families with whom we have spoken, especially those who have been living far from home since Hurricane Katrina, are not aware of the resources available to help them rebuild. A simple resource guide listing non-profits, government agencies, and, potentially, qualified for-profit businesses who provide assistance with rehab, new construction, elevation, and property maintenance would be a low-cost tool that would go a long way. –
At the City level, a one- or two-page listing of services could be sent with code enforcement violation notices. At the State level, the Office of Community Development could send a similar guide to all Option 1 recipients who have not self-reported that they are in compliance. Build Now recommends that both the City of New Orleans Code Enforcement Department and the State Office of Community Development send out a resource guide listing contact information for relevant service providers to all who are not in compliance with the City code or Road Home covenants.

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• “Optimizing Blight Strategies: Deploying Limited Resources in Different Neighborhood Housing Markets.” Allison Plyer, Elaine Ortiz, and Kathryn L.S. Pettit. Greater New Orleans Community Data Center and The Urban Institute. November 2010.
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With any questions on the suggestions presented above, please contact Tess Monaghan, Executive Director of Build Now, at 504.324.3964 or .

Algiers Town Hall Meeting

Crescent City Connection Tolls, Algiers Ferry & General DeGaulle Drainage Project

Algiers Town Hall Meeting

AEDF in partnership with Sen. David Heitmeir, Rep. Jeff Arnold, Rep. Jim Tucker & New Orleans Councilmember Kristin Gisleson Palmer

DATE:

6:00PM to 8:00PM

LOCATION:

1200 L.B. Landry Avenue
New Orleans, LA

PRESENTERS:

of the Louisiana Department of

Transportation & Development

Global Green USA ’s Build It Back Green Program is proud to present a series of monthly educational workshops, teaching residents the whys and hows of energy efficiency and weatherization.

Take part in this workshop to learn about FREE things that you and your family can do to save on your utility bills. This workshop will teach you how to identify energy waste in your home using simple DIY measures, explain the benefits of a professional Home Energy Assessment, and provide you with tips on easy, free ways to reduce your utility bill each month.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011
6:00pm to 8:00pm
Global Green’s Green Building Resource Center
841 Carondelet Street
New Orleans, LA 70130

Global Green events are FREE and open to the public.

For more information on this and all GBRC events, please see our website, here: http://globalgreen.org/bibg/calendar/ or contact Heidi Jensen at our Green Building Resource Center:

TFL announces 2011-2012 Community Advocacy Grants

The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living (TFL) has released its 2011-12 Request for Application (RFA) for Community Advocacy Grants (CAGs). This grant is open until March 16.

The RFA can be viewed at: http://www.tobaccofreeliving.org/home5/ or at http://www.lphi.org/tflgrant. Details on upcoming information sessions are below. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

The purpose of these grants is to foster community involvement in carrying out TFL’s goals of reducing exposure to secondhand smoke, preventing tobacco initiation by youth, promote tobacco cessation among youth and adults, and reducing tobacco-related health disparities.

TFL CAGs assist in the growth and development of statewide capacity building and mobilization efforts for tobacco prevention and control. It is through the statewide coordination of these strengthened efforts that the goal of prevention is met through policy change. The three areas that the RFA will focus on are youth, young adults (college/university), and priority populations.

Grantees must be one of the following:
• 501©3 status, or
• be a native American tribe
• or be a college or university

The CAGs funding period will be from July 1, 2011 to June 15, 2012 (FY 11/12).
Benefits to the TFL Community Advocacy Grantees include:
• Funding for staff support stipends
• Funding for community capacity building and staff professional development
• Networking opportunities through membership in your regional coalition

For those interested in learning more about the RFA, technical assistance (TA) calls regarding the scope of work (sow) for the grants are scheduled.
Please contact Cassandra at (504) 301-9839 for information on how to participate.