Residents can recycle their Christmas trees by
placing their tree curbside
on January 6th
for collection on January 7, 8, and 9, 2010.
Residents must remove all lights, tree stands, ornaments and tinsel from live trees. Flocked(artificial snow) and artificial trees will not be collected, and trees should not be placed on the neutral grounds.
CITY CONTINUES TO PROMOTE WETLAND RESTORATION
Environmental Affairs and Sanitation Departments Announce
Annual Christmas Tree Recycling Program
NEW ORLEANS, LA (December 21, 2009) - In an effort to promote the restoration of Louisiana's wetlands, the City of New Orleans in partnership with the Louisiana National Guard, Bayou Land RC&D and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will host the Annual Christmas tree recycling program that will help in rebuilding the wetlands and assist in the protection of the Louisiana coastline.
Residents interested in participating in the program can recycle their Christmas trees and are asked to place their tree curbside on January 6th for collection on January 7, 8, and 9, 2010. Residents must remove all lights, tree stands, ornaments and tinsel from live trees. Flocked(artificial snow) and artificial trees will not be collected, and trees should not be placed on the neutral grounds.
In January, volunteers will help bundle the trees, which will then be airlifted from the recycle site to Bayou Savage. Trees will then be submerged along the coastline where they will catch silt and sand, creating additional sites for plants and animals to live and grow. This will create new wetland habitats by stimulating the formation of new marsh and providing important habitat areas for fish and wildlife, resulting in a more highly productive marsh.
"We are encouraging all to come out and support this initiative to save our environment and hope that citizens will participate this season,"said Wynecta Fisher, Director of Environmental Affairs for the City of New Orleans.
Research shows that approximately 40% of the nation's wetlands are located in the State of Louisiana. Louisiana continues to lose 25 to 35 square miles of wetlands per year, with the highest rates occurring in the Barataria and Terrebonne basins. The Louisiana coast supports critical infrastructure including navigational waterways of national significance, ports and highways.
Volunteers are also needed to help collect and bundle donated Christmas trees following the holiday season on Friday, January 22nd and Saturday, January 30th from 8am until 2pm.
Volunteers wishing to participate in this service project must be 17 years of age or older. Recommended attire is layered clothing, long pants, long sleeved shirts and closed-toe shoes. Volunteers are asked to meet at the corner of Recovery Rd and Chef Highway at 8am. Volunteers must bring their own lunch, water and gloves.
This project is funded by the Louisiana State Department of Natural Resources. For additional information, contact Wynecta Fisher, Director of Environmental Affairs for the City of New Orleans, at (504) 658-4070. Those interested in volunteering should also contact the Office of Environmental Affairs.
For more information call 311 (no don't as this number is one of the 2010 budget cuts), or visit www.cityofno.com.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
2A: THE ONLY OPTION
GAMBIT BEST OF NEW ORLEANS
Posted on DECEMBER 21, 2009:
2A: THE ONLY OPTION
New Orleanians should not have to take ownership of an inferior federal product
By now it is abundantly clear that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers intends to
stick New Orleans with the fatally flawed floodwalls the Corps designed and
built along the city's three outfall canals at London Avenue, Orleans Avenue
and 17th Street. No New Orleanian who lived through Hurricane Katrina will ever
forget that the London Avenue and 17th Street canals catastrophically failed
during the storm, playing a part in flooding tens of thousands of homes and
killing more than 1,000 people. We also know that, in the wake of the storm, the
defective floodwalls have not been fully repaired but merely patched where they
failed. That is unacceptable.
Col. Robert Sinkler, commander of the Hurricane Protection Office,
made the Corps' position known at a recent meeting with the New Orleans City
Council's recovery committee. Sinkler told council members that because of the
interim gates near the mouths of the outfall canals, the interior floodwalls are
no longer part of the federal flood control system ó and the feds therefore are
no longer responsible for them. To make sure we understood Sinkler's comment,
Gambit asked the Corps for clarification. We were told via email that operation
and maintenance of the outfall canal floodwalls are the responsibility of the
nonfederal sponsor, which means the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection
Authority-East. That's news to Tim Doody, president of SLFPA-East's board of
commissioners. "Those walls have not been decommissioned," Doody says. "They are
still part of the federal system."
During the same council meeting, Sinkler added that Corps civil
works projects are "typically" turned over to locals for operation and
maintenance upon completion. Sinkler has commanded the hurricane office only
since May, so perhaps he doesn't understand there's nothing "typical" about
those canal floodwalls other than their defective design and construction. New
Orleanians should not have to take ownership of an inferior federal product.
It has been suggested that the Corps will make $90 million in
repairs to rehabilitate and refurbish the floodwalls, which will somehow prevent
future breaches. Baloney. It doesn't take an engineering degree to recognize
that when you put the equivalent of Band-Aids on floodwalls that ruptured in
multiple places, there is no way to guarantee those floodwalls, some of which
still have the substandard "I-wall" design, will ever be made foolproof.
The safest approach is to start from scratch, and in this case, that
means adopting the plan known locally as "Option 2A," which includes permanent
pump stations at the end of the three outfall canals. This plan also would
remove the floodwalls and levees along the outflow canals and then deepen and
pave the channels, allowing water to use gravity to flow to the lakefront. Some
older New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board interior pump stations no longer
would be needed; the permanent lakefront pumps would become all-purpose,
year-round pumping stations. Additionally, the plan would add a pumping station
in Old Metairie to send water directly to the Mississippi River.
Unfortunately, in September, a U.S. House and Senate conference
committee rejected an amendment co-sponsored by Sens. Mary Landrieu and David
Vitter that would have directed the Corps to conduct a peer-review study with
cost estimates for this and other options. Landrieu blamed the Corps for
lobbying against the study, and she vowed to amend other bills to incorporate
it.
We support Landrieu's idea of modifying another bill to include the
study, but we also think it's time for the Louisiana delegation to beat the
Corps at its own game. The Corps loves to say it can only do what Congress
authorizes, a posture that allows the Corps to claim it doesn't have the
authority to build Option 2A. If that's the case, then our delegation should
work with other members of Congress to direct the Corps to take full
responsibility for the floodwalls it builds as part of the region's federal
flood protection plan and to take all possible steps to prevent future
breaches, including a full study of Option 2A. There must be no doubt that the
feds are responsible for the local floodwalls.
We hope that once the Corps realizes it must build a holistic
flood-control system, it will recognize the need to tear down those walls, not
put $90 million worth of lipstick on them while leaving Louisianans in jeopardy,
and proceed with Option 2A.
Posted on DECEMBER 21, 2009:
2A: THE ONLY OPTION
New Orleanians should not have to take ownership of an inferior federal product
By now it is abundantly clear that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers intends to
stick New Orleans with the fatally flawed floodwalls the Corps designed and
built along the city's three outfall canals at London Avenue, Orleans Avenue
and 17th Street. No New Orleanian who lived through Hurricane Katrina will ever
forget that the London Avenue and 17th Street canals catastrophically failed
during the storm, playing a part in flooding tens of thousands of homes and
killing more than 1,000 people. We also know that, in the wake of the storm, the
defective floodwalls have not been fully repaired but merely patched where they
failed. That is unacceptable.
Col. Robert Sinkler, commander of the Hurricane Protection Office,
made the Corps' position known at a recent meeting with the New Orleans City
Council's recovery committee. Sinkler told council members that because of the
interim gates near the mouths of the outfall canals, the interior floodwalls are
no longer part of the federal flood control system ó and the feds therefore are
no longer responsible for them. To make sure we understood Sinkler's comment,
Gambit asked the Corps for clarification. We were told via email that operation
and maintenance of the outfall canal floodwalls are the responsibility of the
nonfederal sponsor, which means the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection
Authority-East. That's news to Tim Doody, president of SLFPA-East's board of
commissioners. "Those walls have not been decommissioned," Doody says. "They are
still part of the federal system."
During the same council meeting, Sinkler added that Corps civil
works projects are "typically" turned over to locals for operation and
maintenance upon completion. Sinkler has commanded the hurricane office only
since May, so perhaps he doesn't understand there's nothing "typical" about
those canal floodwalls other than their defective design and construction. New
Orleanians should not have to take ownership of an inferior federal product.
It has been suggested that the Corps will make $90 million in
repairs to rehabilitate and refurbish the floodwalls, which will somehow prevent
future breaches. Baloney. It doesn't take an engineering degree to recognize
that when you put the equivalent of Band-Aids on floodwalls that ruptured in
multiple places, there is no way to guarantee those floodwalls, some of which
still have the substandard "I-wall" design, will ever be made foolproof.
The safest approach is to start from scratch, and in this case, that
means adopting the plan known locally as "Option 2A," which includes permanent
pump stations at the end of the three outfall canals. This plan also would
remove the floodwalls and levees along the outflow canals and then deepen and
pave the channels, allowing water to use gravity to flow to the lakefront. Some
older New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board interior pump stations no longer
would be needed; the permanent lakefront pumps would become all-purpose,
year-round pumping stations. Additionally, the plan would add a pumping station
in Old Metairie to send water directly to the Mississippi River.
Unfortunately, in September, a U.S. House and Senate conference
committee rejected an amendment co-sponsored by Sens. Mary Landrieu and David
Vitter that would have directed the Corps to conduct a peer-review study with
cost estimates for this and other options. Landrieu blamed the Corps for
lobbying against the study, and she vowed to amend other bills to incorporate
it.
We support Landrieu's idea of modifying another bill to include the
study, but we also think it's time for the Louisiana delegation to beat the
Corps at its own game. The Corps loves to say it can only do what Congress
authorizes, a posture that allows the Corps to claim it doesn't have the
authority to build Option 2A. If that's the case, then our delegation should
work with other members of Congress to direct the Corps to take full
responsibility for the floodwalls it builds as part of the region's federal
flood protection plan and to take all possible steps to prevent future
breaches, including a full study of Option 2A. There must be no doubt that the
feds are responsible for the local floodwalls.
We hope that once the Corps realizes it must build a holistic
flood-control system, it will recognize the need to tear down those walls, not
put $90 million worth of lipstick on them while leaving Louisianans in jeopardy,
and proceed with Option 2A.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Earhart Boulevard repairs finally under way
Earhart Boulevard repairs finally under way
By Katie Urbaszewski, The Times-Picayune
December 26, 2009, 6:12AM
A long-stalled project to repair a heavily damaged stretch of Earhart Boulevard is finally under construction, thanks to an influx of federal stimulus money, officials said.
The $12.4 million project will completely rebuild one mile of the heavily traveled commuter route from Hamilton to Pine streets, including sewer, water and drainage pipes. Thousands of motorists travel the busy thoroughfare each day to get to and from downtown New Orleans via the Earhart Expressway.
Times-Picayune archiveIn 2004, repairs on Earhart Boulevard meant detours for thousands of motorists. The project was originally part of the state's Transportation Infrastructure Model for Economic Development or TIMED program, which has financed the repair of four other segments of Earhart since 1999.
The state Department of Transportation program set aside $20 million to invest in the road's reconstruction, but after completing the fourth segment in 2006, ran out of money to finish the final stretch, said TIMED spokesman Sam Moore.
To proceed, the state would have had to seek federal funding, Moore said.
"Then this stimulus came along, and that was like manna from heaven for us," said Jeff Roesel of the New Orleans Regional Planning Commission.
Robert Mendoza, director of the city's Department of Public Works, said the initial stage of construction will cause minor lane restrictions in the first two months of 2010.
After that, vehicles will be routed to one side of the neutral ground at a time, creating more traffic, Mendoza said. The project is slated to end about a year from now, but officials say delays are likely.
Work rehabbing Earhart began in 1999, when two stretches from Magnolia to South Galvez streets and South Galvez to South Dupre streets were rebuilt. That was followed by a segment from Fern to State streets in May 2005. Construction on the fourth segment, from State to South Dupre streets, was interrupted by Hurricane Katrina and finally completed in April 2006.
Of the $12.4 million needed for this phase, $8.1 million will be covered by stimulus funds in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Another $2.5 million will come from the Federal Highway Administration, $1.2 million from the New Orleans Sewerage & Water Board and $627,000 in leftover TIMED funds, city officials said. The contractor is Command Construction.
In addition to street repair, a U-turn lane will be added to the westbound lane of Earhart past the intersection of South Carrollton Avenue. A right-turn lane will also be added for westbound motorists at South Carrollton. Officials also plan to add sidewalks.
"This is in response to what the community wanted," Roesel said.
Planners took care to accommodate pedestrians as well as vehicles, Mendoza said. Originally, the planning committee wanted to add a left-turn lane to remove the need to make a U-turn at all.
"But you start to think of the intersection and Veterans and Clearview at that point," Mendoza said. "That's clearly a barrier for pedestrians."
Mendoza said this intersection is also a bus transfer location, and, based on neighborhood input, there were plenty of people who cross the street there.
"Our goal was not to cut this neighborhood in half," he said.
Mendoza said an independent traffic consultant inspected the plans and said the traffic will flow smoothly.
Moya Runyan Carroll, vice president of NOLA Box Supply Co. on 8501 Earhart Blvd., attended the Dec. 16 groundbreaking ceremony and said she is ecstatic to see construction finally happening.
"It's been a long time coming," she said.
Carroll said the improvements should make the street safer and might stop her building from shaking when trucks drive by. She said business could be hurt by the construction, but she fully supports it.
"No pain, no gain," she said.
Joey Helm, general manager of Helm Paint and Decorating at 8180 Earhart Blvd., said his company has seen the effects of past street construction, and it does take a toll on business.
"People will find you if they want to find you, but it's kind of inconvenient," he said.
That said, the road work will likely be worth it.
"In the end, it will be a better thing for our community and better for Helm Paint," he said. "But you've got to cringe when you see something like this coming."
Katie Urbaszewski can be reached at kurbaszewski@timespicayune.com or 504.826.3330.
By Katie Urbaszewski, The Times-Picayune
December 26, 2009, 6:12AM
A long-stalled project to repair a heavily damaged stretch of Earhart Boulevard is finally under construction, thanks to an influx of federal stimulus money, officials said.
The $12.4 million project will completely rebuild one mile of the heavily traveled commuter route from Hamilton to Pine streets, including sewer, water and drainage pipes. Thousands of motorists travel the busy thoroughfare each day to get to and from downtown New Orleans via the Earhart Expressway.
Times-Picayune archiveIn 2004, repairs on Earhart Boulevard meant detours for thousands of motorists. The project was originally part of the state's Transportation Infrastructure Model for Economic Development or TIMED program, which has financed the repair of four other segments of Earhart since 1999.
The state Department of Transportation program set aside $20 million to invest in the road's reconstruction, but after completing the fourth segment in 2006, ran out of money to finish the final stretch, said TIMED spokesman Sam Moore.
To proceed, the state would have had to seek federal funding, Moore said.
"Then this stimulus came along, and that was like manna from heaven for us," said Jeff Roesel of the New Orleans Regional Planning Commission.
Robert Mendoza, director of the city's Department of Public Works, said the initial stage of construction will cause minor lane restrictions in the first two months of 2010.
After that, vehicles will be routed to one side of the neutral ground at a time, creating more traffic, Mendoza said. The project is slated to end about a year from now, but officials say delays are likely.
Work rehabbing Earhart began in 1999, when two stretches from Magnolia to South Galvez streets and South Galvez to South Dupre streets were rebuilt. That was followed by a segment from Fern to State streets in May 2005. Construction on the fourth segment, from State to South Dupre streets, was interrupted by Hurricane Katrina and finally completed in April 2006.
Of the $12.4 million needed for this phase, $8.1 million will be covered by stimulus funds in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Another $2.5 million will come from the Federal Highway Administration, $1.2 million from the New Orleans Sewerage & Water Board and $627,000 in leftover TIMED funds, city officials said. The contractor is Command Construction.
In addition to street repair, a U-turn lane will be added to the westbound lane of Earhart past the intersection of South Carrollton Avenue. A right-turn lane will also be added for westbound motorists at South Carrollton. Officials also plan to add sidewalks.
"This is in response to what the community wanted," Roesel said.
Planners took care to accommodate pedestrians as well as vehicles, Mendoza said. Originally, the planning committee wanted to add a left-turn lane to remove the need to make a U-turn at all.
"But you start to think of the intersection and Veterans and Clearview at that point," Mendoza said. "That's clearly a barrier for pedestrians."
Mendoza said this intersection is also a bus transfer location, and, based on neighborhood input, there were plenty of people who cross the street there.
"Our goal was not to cut this neighborhood in half," he said.
Mendoza said an independent traffic consultant inspected the plans and said the traffic will flow smoothly.
Moya Runyan Carroll, vice president of NOLA Box Supply Co. on 8501 Earhart Blvd., attended the Dec. 16 groundbreaking ceremony and said she is ecstatic to see construction finally happening.
"It's been a long time coming," she said.
Carroll said the improvements should make the street safer and might stop her building from shaking when trucks drive by. She said business could be hurt by the construction, but she fully supports it.
"No pain, no gain," she said.
Joey Helm, general manager of Helm Paint and Decorating at 8180 Earhart Blvd., said his company has seen the effects of past street construction, and it does take a toll on business.
"People will find you if they want to find you, but it's kind of inconvenient," he said.
That said, the road work will likely be worth it.
"In the end, it will be a better thing for our community and better for Helm Paint," he said. "But you've got to cringe when you see something like this coming."
Katie Urbaszewski can be reached at kurbaszewski@timespicayune.com or 504.826.3330.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Missing Yorkie!!! Keep your eyes open
If you see a black & brown yorkie in the area please call him by the name CREEK and try to get him to come to you. Creek is a companion animal.
Here is the note I got from his owners:
12/23/09, We were just pulling up after a 7 hour drive from Atlanta when he got out of his travel kennel and darted across Earhart toward the old Barrow's restaurant wednesday night. We have been scouring the neighborhood every since looking for our dog. Creek is a companion dog for my father who is paralyzed. We are hopeful that someone will have a heart and return him to us soon. We are all saddened by the fact that he ran off. He has been seen in the area of Belfast and Monroe. A neighbor on Apple and Hollygrove also saw him.
Anything that you can do to help us find our beloved pet, we greatly appreciate it!
IF you see Creek please contact his owners @ 439-3024 or 486-1372
Here is the note I got from his owners:
12/23/09, We were just pulling up after a 7 hour drive from Atlanta when he got out of his travel kennel and darted across Earhart toward the old Barrow's restaurant wednesday night. We have been scouring the neighborhood every since looking for our dog. Creek is a companion dog for my father who is paralyzed. We are hopeful that someone will have a heart and return him to us soon. We are all saddened by the fact that he ran off. He has been seen in the area of Belfast and Monroe. A neighbor on Apple and Hollygrove also saw him.
Anything that you can do to help us find our beloved pet, we greatly appreciate it!
IF you see Creek please contact his owners @ 439-3024 or 486-1372
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Walgreens doing just fine
By Marley Seaman
Associated Press
NEW YORK — Concerned customers got more than 5 million flu shots at Walgreen stores in the fall, helping the company boost its quarterly profit by 20 percent.
The company administered 5.4 million seasonal flu shots between Sept. 1 and Nov. 30, compared with 1.2 million in last year's entire flu season, from October to February. The shots cost $24.99 at most Walgreen stores. Demand was strongest in September and October and then slowed last month, although sales could pick up over the winter.
Like other drugstores, Walgreen started giving the shots several weeks earlier than in 2008.
Two-thirds of the people who got flu shots had not filled a prescription at Walgreen in the last six months, the company said Monday.
Walgreen said prescription drug sales also improved, and its pharmacies are taking more market share. But it emphasized that consumers are cutting back on holiday shopping because of high unemployment, hurting sales of items other than drugs.
Walgreen added that it may get a boost as customers make a last-minute rush for Christmas gifts. However, compared with last year, the company said it will offer fewer post-holiday discounts because it is not carrying as many seasonal products.
The Deerfield, Ill., company earned $489 million, or 49 cents a share, in its fiscal first quarter, up from $408 million, or 41 cents a share, a year ago. Excluding 3 cents a share in restructuring costs, the company said
it earned 52 cents a share. Revenue rose 9.5 percent to $16.36 billion from $14.95 billion.
Wall Street forecasts called for 48 cents a share in profit and just under $16.3 billion in revenue, according to a survey by Thomson Reuters.
Walgreen is planning to remodel and redecorate thousands of locations to improve sales, keep costs down, and make the stores more pleasant for customers. It is testing a new store layout at 400 sites in Texas, and plans to switch about 3,000 of its 7,000 stores to the format by fall 2010.
It delayed the planned switch by about three months so it can make changes to the décor of its stores. Walgreen is also selling beer and wine at about 1,600 stores.
The company opened or relocated 150 stores during the quarter and had 7,147 retail locations as of Nov. 30.
Walgreen shares slipped 3 cents to close at $36.61 Monday.
Associated Press
NEW YORK — Concerned customers got more than 5 million flu shots at Walgreen stores in the fall, helping the company boost its quarterly profit by 20 percent.
The company administered 5.4 million seasonal flu shots between Sept. 1 and Nov. 30, compared with 1.2 million in last year's entire flu season, from October to February. The shots cost $24.99 at most Walgreen stores. Demand was strongest in September and October and then slowed last month, although sales could pick up over the winter.
Like other drugstores, Walgreen started giving the shots several weeks earlier than in 2008.
Two-thirds of the people who got flu shots had not filled a prescription at Walgreen in the last six months, the company said Monday.
Walgreen said prescription drug sales also improved, and its pharmacies are taking more market share. But it emphasized that consumers are cutting back on holiday shopping because of high unemployment, hurting sales of items other than drugs.
Walgreen added that it may get a boost as customers make a last-minute rush for Christmas gifts. However, compared with last year, the company said it will offer fewer post-holiday discounts because it is not carrying as many seasonal products.
The Deerfield, Ill., company earned $489 million, or 49 cents a share, in its fiscal first quarter, up from $408 million, or 41 cents a share, a year ago. Excluding 3 cents a share in restructuring costs, the company said
it earned 52 cents a share. Revenue rose 9.5 percent to $16.36 billion from $14.95 billion.
Wall Street forecasts called for 48 cents a share in profit and just under $16.3 billion in revenue, according to a survey by Thomson Reuters.
Walgreen is planning to remodel and redecorate thousands of locations to improve sales, keep costs down, and make the stores more pleasant for customers. It is testing a new store layout at 400 sites in Texas, and plans to switch about 3,000 of its 7,000 stores to the format by fall 2010.
It delayed the planned switch by about three months so it can make changes to the décor of its stores. Walgreen is also selling beer and wine at about 1,600 stores.
The company opened or relocated 150 stores during the quarter and had 7,147 retail locations as of Nov. 30.
Walgreen shares slipped 3 cents to close at $36.61 Monday.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Reports throughout NOPD 2nd District
Sorry to have to post this but it seems that ARMED ROBBERIES are on the up tick.
At least once a week in the 2nd District there have been similar reports to the ones below:
"On Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at approximately 6:02 pm the victim
parked his vehicle in the 2800 block of Audubon Street. The victim
exited his vehicle at which time he was approached by an unknown black
male who produced a blue steel semi-automatic handgun and demanded the
victim’s money. The victim gave the suspect his wallet. The suspect
began to walk away as he looked through his wallet. The suspect became
enraged and ran back towards the victim then demanded his car keys.
The victim complied and gave the suspect his keys. After receiving the
keys the suspect entered the victims’ vehicle and fled on Audubon
towards Earhart then unknown.
The suspect is described as a black male, mid twenties, 5’8”, 150
pounds, wearing baggy jeans, dark sweater, dark cap. He was armed with
a blue steel semi-automatic handgun."
"On December 15, 2009 at approximately 4:55 pm the victim observed an
unknown black male inside of his vehicle that was parked in the 3600
block of Coliseum Street. The victim confronted the suspect at which
time he gave the victim property that was taken from his vehicle and
fled on foot. The victim notified police and gave the dispatcher the
suspects’ description and direction of escape. Responding officers
were able to apprehend Gerard Hawkins, black male, 8-03-1970, who was
arrested and charged with the offense."
So as you walk the streets be on the lookout for strangers in hooded jackets.
At least once a week in the 2nd District there have been similar reports to the ones below:
"On Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at approximately 6:02 pm the victim
parked his vehicle in the 2800 block of Audubon Street. The victim
exited his vehicle at which time he was approached by an unknown black
male who produced a blue steel semi-automatic handgun and demanded the
victim’s money. The victim gave the suspect his wallet. The suspect
began to walk away as he looked through his wallet. The suspect became
enraged and ran back towards the victim then demanded his car keys.
The victim complied and gave the suspect his keys. After receiving the
keys the suspect entered the victims’ vehicle and fled on Audubon
towards Earhart then unknown.
The suspect is described as a black male, mid twenties, 5’8”, 150
pounds, wearing baggy jeans, dark sweater, dark cap. He was armed with
a blue steel semi-automatic handgun."
"On December 15, 2009 at approximately 4:55 pm the victim observed an
unknown black male inside of his vehicle that was parked in the 3600
block of Coliseum Street. The victim confronted the suspect at which
time he gave the victim property that was taken from his vehicle and
fled on foot. The victim notified police and gave the dispatcher the
suspects’ description and direction of escape. Responding officers
were able to apprehend Gerard Hawkins, black male, 8-03-1970, who was
arrested and charged with the offense."
So as you walk the streets be on the lookout for strangers in hooded jackets.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
North Rampart Main Street
Dear Friends & Supporters of North Rampart Main Street:
North Rampart Main Street, Inc. (NRMSI) was established as a proven economic development model to revitalize the North Rampart corridor as “The Gateway to the Historic Neighborhoods of the French Quarter and Treme.” North Rampart is uniquely positioned to serve businesses, residents and visitors and to provide an easily accessible historic setting for an authentic exchange of goods, services, and experiences. Our goal is to strengthen existing businesses and attract new businesses to make the street safe and walk-able for residents and visitors.
Much has been accomplished, but there is so much more to do. As with most non-profits, funding is a major challenge. Our State funding has been significantly reduced due to the State’s revenue shortfall, and several of our key contributors have not been able to provide their usual funding due to the economy.
We need your support to continue this critical work in 2010.
Major progress has been made on North Rampart in the last three years:
Several businesses have located on or re-located to N. Rampart: Discoveries Furniture & Finds, Bar Tonique, Key’s Fuel Mart, Decadence Shoppe, French Quarter Citizens, Vieux Carre Property Owners, Residents, and Associates, and the New Orleans Athletic Club’s new parking area.
New Residences: Three condominium developments – one in the 200 block, the Colonial Condos in the 1300 block, and the Krauss Condos nearby on Basin Street have added many new residents to the neighborhood.
Façade Improvements: NRMSI has awarded five facade grants, which when combined with owner matching funds, have produced substantial facade improvements to: St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, Meauxbar Bistro, Wolfe’s Restaurant, Dr. Mike’s Animal House, and 710 N. Rampart (previously Funky Butt). And with your help we will be able to provide more façade grants and stimulate our economy!
Neutral Ground Improvements: We are working with the City to repair the street lights, and in March 2010 you will see new landscaping along the neutral grounds, with Covenant House maintaining the plantings.
Festivals: NRMSI inaugurated the annual “RampART” festival in Armstrong Park to promote the creative arts, local music and of course, our great food. This year we celebrated our 3rd annual event. We are also the official sponsor of the Satchmo SummerFest birthday celebration for Louis Armstrong held in Armstrong Park.
Armstrong Park Improvements: We worked with the City in the re-opening of Armstrong Park and the Mahalia Jackson Theatre.
Cultural Products Designation: NRMSI was instrumental in obtaining this designation, which provides tax credits for historic preservation and state sales tax relief for art.
Still, much more remains to be done. Please help us by making a contribution to the revitalization of North Rampart. All donations to our non-profit organization are tax deductible. Please make checks payable to: NRMSI, 632 N. Rampart Street, New Orleans, LA 70112.
If you have any questions or would like to volunteer, please contact Laurie Toups, Executive Director, at 504-256-4848 or manager@northrampartmainstreet.org.
Thank you and Happy Holidays!
David Speights and Susan Klein, Co-Chairs
North Rampart Main Street, Inc.
632 North Rampart Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
504.256.4848 (O)
North Rampart Main Street, Inc. (NRMSI) was established as a proven economic development model to revitalize the North Rampart corridor as “The Gateway to the Historic Neighborhoods of the French Quarter and Treme.” North Rampart is uniquely positioned to serve businesses, residents and visitors and to provide an easily accessible historic setting for an authentic exchange of goods, services, and experiences. Our goal is to strengthen existing businesses and attract new businesses to make the street safe and walk-able for residents and visitors.
Much has been accomplished, but there is so much more to do. As with most non-profits, funding is a major challenge. Our State funding has been significantly reduced due to the State’s revenue shortfall, and several of our key contributors have not been able to provide their usual funding due to the economy.
We need your support to continue this critical work in 2010.
Major progress has been made on North Rampart in the last three years:
Several businesses have located on or re-located to N. Rampart: Discoveries Furniture & Finds, Bar Tonique, Key’s Fuel Mart, Decadence Shoppe, French Quarter Citizens, Vieux Carre Property Owners, Residents, and Associates, and the New Orleans Athletic Club’s new parking area.
New Residences: Three condominium developments – one in the 200 block, the Colonial Condos in the 1300 block, and the Krauss Condos nearby on Basin Street have added many new residents to the neighborhood.
Façade Improvements: NRMSI has awarded five facade grants, which when combined with owner matching funds, have produced substantial facade improvements to: St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, Meauxbar Bistro, Wolfe’s Restaurant, Dr. Mike’s Animal House, and 710 N. Rampart (previously Funky Butt). And with your help we will be able to provide more façade grants and stimulate our economy!
Neutral Ground Improvements: We are working with the City to repair the street lights, and in March 2010 you will see new landscaping along the neutral grounds, with Covenant House maintaining the plantings.
Festivals: NRMSI inaugurated the annual “RampART” festival in Armstrong Park to promote the creative arts, local music and of course, our great food. This year we celebrated our 3rd annual event. We are also the official sponsor of the Satchmo SummerFest birthday celebration for Louis Armstrong held in Armstrong Park.
Armstrong Park Improvements: We worked with the City in the re-opening of Armstrong Park and the Mahalia Jackson Theatre.
Cultural Products Designation: NRMSI was instrumental in obtaining this designation, which provides tax credits for historic preservation and state sales tax relief for art.
Still, much more remains to be done. Please help us by making a contribution to the revitalization of North Rampart. All donations to our non-profit organization are tax deductible. Please make checks payable to: NRMSI, 632 N. Rampart Street, New Orleans, LA 70112.
If you have any questions or would like to volunteer, please contact Laurie Toups, Executive Director, at 504-256-4848 or manager@northrampartmainstreet.org.
Thank you and Happy Holidays!
David Speights and Susan Klein, Co-Chairs
North Rampart Main Street, Inc.
632 North Rampart Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
504.256.4848 (O)
Thursday, December 17, 2009
2010 Budget Implementation Plan and Impact Statements
From the Mayors Office
(Personally I CAN'T wait until there is someone else in the Mayor's Office.
It seems like we are all having to hold our breath and wait until after the elections)
Citizens,
Below are links to an outline that was presented to local media organizations today of the 2010 Budget Implementation plan and the Impact Statements from City agencies that received additional cuts. This information is also on the website-cityofno.com. Although city staff members continue to work on the implementation plans, there will be community meetings this week and after the holidays to review the 2010 budget implementation steps. Please stay tuned to local media outlets, the city's website and your email for announcements regarding possible service schedule changes as a result of the adopted 2010 budget.
Thank you for your continued dedication to OUR city's recovery and growth.
2010 Budget Adopted by NO City Council
2010 Budget Implementation Plan
Departmental Impact Statement Summaries
Departmental Letters on Budget Impact
(Personally I CAN'T wait until there is someone else in the Mayor's Office.
It seems like we are all having to hold our breath and wait until after the elections)
Citizens,
Below are links to an outline that was presented to local media organizations today of the 2010 Budget Implementation plan and the Impact Statements from City agencies that received additional cuts. This information is also on the website-cityofno.com. Although city staff members continue to work on the implementation plans, there will be community meetings this week and after the holidays to review the 2010 budget implementation steps. Please stay tuned to local media outlets, the city's website and your email for announcements regarding possible service schedule changes as a result of the adopted 2010 budget.
Thank you for your continued dedication to OUR city's recovery and growth.
2010 Budget Adopted by NO City Council
2010 Budget Implementation Plan
Departmental Impact Statement Summaries
Departmental Letters on Budget Impact
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Construction to Begin on Earhart Boulevard
The City of New Orleans Department of Public Works, along with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and the New Orleans Regional Planning Commission will hold a construction commencement ceremony for the reconstruction project to repair Earhart Boulevard from Hamilton Street to Fern Street.
The project will repair a heavily damaged one-mile stretch of the Earhart Boulevard thoroughfare that accommodates several businesses as a part of economic development recovery for the area.
The $12.4 million project is the final Transportation Infrastructure Model for Economic Development (TIMED) project, and was primarily funded by $8.1 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act or stimulus funds. Other sources of funding include $2.5 million from the Federal Highway Administration, $1.2 million from the New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board and $627,000 in TIMED funds.
What: Construction commencement ceremony to commemorate the start of construction on Earhart Boulevard from Hamilton Street to Fern Street
When & Where: Wednesday, Dec. 16, 1:30 p.m., in the H&R Block parking lot on the corner of Earhart Boulevard and South Carrollton Avenue (also former Walgreens parking lot)
Hosted by: The City of New Orleans Department of Public Works, the New Orleans Regional Planning Commission (RPC) and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD)
Speakers: Mayor C. Ray Nagin, Public Works Director Robert Mendoza, DOTD Deputy Secretary Sherri LeBas and New Orleans RPC Executive Director Walter Brooks
The project will repair a heavily damaged one-mile stretch of the Earhart Boulevard thoroughfare that accommodates several businesses as a part of economic development recovery for the area.
The $12.4 million project is the final Transportation Infrastructure Model for Economic Development (TIMED) project, and was primarily funded by $8.1 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act or stimulus funds. Other sources of funding include $2.5 million from the Federal Highway Administration, $1.2 million from the New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board and $627,000 in TIMED funds.
What: Construction commencement ceremony to commemorate the start of construction on Earhart Boulevard from Hamilton Street to Fern Street
When & Where: Wednesday, Dec. 16, 1:30 p.m., in the H&R Block parking lot on the corner of Earhart Boulevard and South Carrollton Avenue (also former Walgreens parking lot)
Hosted by: The City of New Orleans Department of Public Works, the New Orleans Regional Planning Commission (RPC) and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD)
Speakers: Mayor C. Ray Nagin, Public Works Director Robert Mendoza, DOTD Deputy Secretary Sherri LeBas and New Orleans RPC Executive Director Walter Brooks
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Independent Police Monitor
Office of Independent Police Monitor
Inspector General’s Office
Press Release
The Office of the new Independent Police Monitor (IPM) announces that it will hold a public outreach hearing in Council District “A” on Thursday, December 17 at 7:00-9:00 pm. The event will be held at the New Orleans Fair Grounds, 4th Floor Club House. The IPM is required to hold at least one public outreach meeting in each council district every four months.
Holly Wiseman, Deputy IPM, will discuss the purpose and structure of the IPM Office and will report on the Office’s activities during its first quarter of operations. The Deputy IPM will solicit information and feedback from the public regarding police operations in their district and their concerns with the IPM. “The purpose is more for the IPM to listen than to inform,” said Ms. Wiseman.
Residents are encouraged to attend to hear about how the new Independent Police Monitor will work to ensure public safety and police integrity.
When: Thursday, December 17, 2009 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where New Orleans Fair Grounds
4th Floor, Clubhouse
1751 Gentilly Boulevard, New Orleans
Contact
Amy E. Chandler- Legislative Director - 504.658.1010 - aechandler@cityofno.com
OR
Holly L. Wiseman - Deputy IPM - 504.681.3229 - hwiseman@nolaoig.gov
The Independent Police Monitor, part of the Office of the Inspector General:
Monitors the process by which the NOPD investigates allegations of misconduct by its staff. It does not itself investigate individual allegations of misconduct by NOPD but reviews completed NOPD investigations in order to report publicly on their fairness, thoroughness and timeliness.
It collects and analyzes data about complaints and police operations in order to identify problem areas and their root causes. It provides these reports to the NOPD and to the public.
It encourages constructive and informed public dialogue about systemic issues of police policies and procedural reform by making recommendations for reforms that meet best practices nationwide.
Inspector General’s Office
Press Release
The Office of the new Independent Police Monitor (IPM) announces that it will hold a public outreach hearing in Council District “A” on Thursday, December 17 at 7:00-9:00 pm. The event will be held at the New Orleans Fair Grounds, 4th Floor Club House. The IPM is required to hold at least one public outreach meeting in each council district every four months.
Holly Wiseman, Deputy IPM, will discuss the purpose and structure of the IPM Office and will report on the Office’s activities during its first quarter of operations. The Deputy IPM will solicit information and feedback from the public regarding police operations in their district and their concerns with the IPM. “The purpose is more for the IPM to listen than to inform,” said Ms. Wiseman.
Residents are encouraged to attend to hear about how the new Independent Police Monitor will work to ensure public safety and police integrity.
When: Thursday, December 17, 2009 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where New Orleans Fair Grounds
4th Floor, Clubhouse
1751 Gentilly Boulevard, New Orleans
Contact
Amy E. Chandler- Legislative Director - 504.658.1010 - aechandler@cityofno.com
OR
Holly L. Wiseman - Deputy IPM - 504.681.3229 - hwiseman@nolaoig.gov
The Independent Police Monitor, part of the Office of the Inspector General:
Monitors the process by which the NOPD investigates allegations of misconduct by its staff. It does not itself investigate individual allegations of misconduct by NOPD but reviews completed NOPD investigations in order to report publicly on their fairness, thoroughness and timeliness.
It collects and analyzes data about complaints and police operations in order to identify problem areas and their root causes. It provides these reports to the NOPD and to the public.
It encourages constructive and informed public dialogue about systemic issues of police policies and procedural reform by making recommendations for reforms that meet best practices nationwide.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
The Budget & Blight - from the Mayor's Office
Mayor's Press Office
City of New Orleans
1300 Perdido Street, Suite 2E04
New Orleans, Louisiana 70112
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 12, 2009
Attention All Citizens and Neighborhood Associations,
On December 1st, the adoption of the 2010 budget for the City of New Orleans includes additional cuts to the City Attorney's Office. As we move forward to implement the City Council's 2010 Budget, I would like to first offer a basic primer on the responsibilities and caseload of the City of New Orleans City Attorney's Office. Such an understanding will assist in helping you to better understand the many functions this office provides and the impact of the cuts it faces.
Below are some basic facts that you may find helpful:
· Today, there are approximately 115,000 current and active legal matters in the various areas: General Litigation, Municipal & Traffic Court, Federal Litigation, ABO prosecution, Transactions, Housing & Finance and In-House.
· There are pending federal court matters that require, the City of New Orleans City Attorney's Office, to retain experts and incur other additional expenses. This is an additional cost. Other costs to manage the approximately 115,000 legal matters include depositions, research, payment of federal court filing fees, processing sheriff sale lien foreclosure proceedings, and retaining attorneys to assist with matters of ethical conflicts of interest. All of these costs must be paid through the "Other Operating" funds in the budget for the City Attorney's Office.
· Today, there are 46 Assistant City Attorneys. In order to handle all 115,000 legal cases, each Assistant City Attorney would handle approximately 2,500 legal cases each.
Aside from the costs of personnel, 2010 City Council Adopted Budget for the City Attorney's Office includes $4,857,023 for insurance and other costs related to risk management and an "Other Operating" amount of $700,822. Mayor Nagin's proposed budget for this office included $1.7 million for "Other Operating," but the City Council reduced the amount by $1 million.
As a result of this limited and insufficient appropriation of $700,822, the City Attorney's Office was forced to cancel contracts with all law firms, including some that assisted the City of New Orleans in taking advantage of revenue generating opportunities.
The following firms were sent notification of cancellation:
Goins Aaron, APLC
Jones Walker
First Southwest Company
Baker Donelson
LeBlanc Butler, LLC
Caraway LeBlanc
Bryant Miller Olive
Kelley Drye & Warren, LLP*
*All of the above contractors were included in the proposed 2010 budget except Kelley Drye.
Recovery has been a priority as the City Attorney's Office has worked to rebuild following Hurricane Katrina, when we lost more than 50 percent of our staff and even more of our funding and resources. One of our roles is in supporting Code Enforcement in the Administrative Hearing process where blight determinations are made. Please note that the total number of administrative hearing cases and resets handled through October 2009 is 11,070. In conjunction with their current duties and job responsibilities, the volume of hearings exceeds the capacity and resources of the existing city attorneys.
Just as importantly, the City Attorney's Office was advised in an earlier matter by a Federal Court judge that in an effort to remove any appearance of partiality by the City, it is prudent that the determination of blight, which in many instances may result in the expropriation of property, is determined by "third-party" attorneys rather than by assistant city attorneys. For example, the City of New Orleans cites, prosecutes, and defends appeals that may result from a determination of blight.
There are three firms that provide administrative hearing officers -- Leblanc, Caraway and Montgomery Barnett. Montgomery Barnett's contract expired in June 2009 and the firm has not executed the amendment sent to them by the City. The total costs to continue these services for 2010, based on anticipated increase in the volume of administrative hearings, is $250,000.
As you can clearly see, $700,882 is insufficient to ensure that the City of New Orleans, including all boards and agencies remains compliant with all local, state and federal laws.
Despite that, the Law Department has worked with Code Enforcement to reschedule all January hearings for 60 days--the hearings are not cancelled.
Again, the Law Department was forced to cut contracts. As City Attorney, I manage the limited dollars that the City Council appropriates to the Law Department's budget. Priority must be for those pending federal court matters, such as the Youth Study Center, that mandate the City Attorney's Office, to retain experts and incur other additional expenses as a requirement in resolution of the litigation.
In closing, I want to thank all of you for your continued dedication and participation with the Code Enforcement staff to achieve many of the milestones and success that we have seen in OUR fight against blight.
Sincerely,
Penya Moses Fields
City Attorney
City of New Orleans
CONTACTS
Kensley Evans
504-452-2352
Kensley.C.Evans@us.mwhglobal.com
Lesley Eugene
504-416-7694
leugene@mayorofno.com
City of New Orleans
1300 Perdido Street, Suite 2E04
New Orleans, Louisiana 70112
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 12, 2009
Attention All Citizens and Neighborhood Associations,
On December 1st, the adoption of the 2010 budget for the City of New Orleans includes additional cuts to the City Attorney's Office. As we move forward to implement the City Council's 2010 Budget, I would like to first offer a basic primer on the responsibilities and caseload of the City of New Orleans City Attorney's Office. Such an understanding will assist in helping you to better understand the many functions this office provides and the impact of the cuts it faces.
Below are some basic facts that you may find helpful:
· Today, there are approximately 115,000 current and active legal matters in the various areas: General Litigation, Municipal & Traffic Court, Federal Litigation, ABO prosecution, Transactions, Housing & Finance and In-House.
· There are pending federal court matters that require, the City of New Orleans City Attorney's Office, to retain experts and incur other additional expenses. This is an additional cost. Other costs to manage the approximately 115,000 legal matters include depositions, research, payment of federal court filing fees, processing sheriff sale lien foreclosure proceedings, and retaining attorneys to assist with matters of ethical conflicts of interest. All of these costs must be paid through the "Other Operating" funds in the budget for the City Attorney's Office.
· Today, there are 46 Assistant City Attorneys. In order to handle all 115,000 legal cases, each Assistant City Attorney would handle approximately 2,500 legal cases each.
Aside from the costs of personnel, 2010 City Council Adopted Budget for the City Attorney's Office includes $4,857,023 for insurance and other costs related to risk management and an "Other Operating" amount of $700,822. Mayor Nagin's proposed budget for this office included $1.7 million for "Other Operating," but the City Council reduced the amount by $1 million.
As a result of this limited and insufficient appropriation of $700,822, the City Attorney's Office was forced to cancel contracts with all law firms, including some that assisted the City of New Orleans in taking advantage of revenue generating opportunities.
The following firms were sent notification of cancellation:
Goins Aaron, APLC
Jones Walker
First Southwest Company
Baker Donelson
LeBlanc Butler, LLC
Caraway LeBlanc
Bryant Miller Olive
Kelley Drye & Warren, LLP*
*All of the above contractors were included in the proposed 2010 budget except Kelley Drye.
Recovery has been a priority as the City Attorney's Office has worked to rebuild following Hurricane Katrina, when we lost more than 50 percent of our staff and even more of our funding and resources. One of our roles is in supporting Code Enforcement in the Administrative Hearing process where blight determinations are made. Please note that the total number of administrative hearing cases and resets handled through October 2009 is 11,070. In conjunction with their current duties and job responsibilities, the volume of hearings exceeds the capacity and resources of the existing city attorneys.
Just as importantly, the City Attorney's Office was advised in an earlier matter by a Federal Court judge that in an effort to remove any appearance of partiality by the City, it is prudent that the determination of blight, which in many instances may result in the expropriation of property, is determined by "third-party" attorneys rather than by assistant city attorneys. For example, the City of New Orleans cites, prosecutes, and defends appeals that may result from a determination of blight.
There are three firms that provide administrative hearing officers -- Leblanc, Caraway and Montgomery Barnett. Montgomery Barnett's contract expired in June 2009 and the firm has not executed the amendment sent to them by the City. The total costs to continue these services for 2010, based on anticipated increase in the volume of administrative hearings, is $250,000.
As you can clearly see, $700,882 is insufficient to ensure that the City of New Orleans, including all boards and agencies remains compliant with all local, state and federal laws.
Despite that, the Law Department has worked with Code Enforcement to reschedule all January hearings for 60 days--the hearings are not cancelled.
Again, the Law Department was forced to cut contracts. As City Attorney, I manage the limited dollars that the City Council appropriates to the Law Department's budget. Priority must be for those pending federal court matters, such as the Youth Study Center, that mandate the City Attorney's Office, to retain experts and incur other additional expenses as a requirement in resolution of the litigation.
In closing, I want to thank all of you for your continued dedication and participation with the Code Enforcement staff to achieve many of the milestones and success that we have seen in OUR fight against blight.
Sincerely,
Penya Moses Fields
City Attorney
City of New Orleans
CONTACTS
Kensley Evans
504-452-2352
Kensley.C.Evans@us.mwhglobal.com
Lesley Eugene
504-416-7694
leugene@mayorofno.com
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Caroling on the Steps of Incarnate Word
Sunday December 13, 2009
Incarnate Word, corner of Apricot & Dante
4:30PM - 6PM
Come a meet your neighbors for some caroling and holiday cheer.
Bring a treat (eggnog, cookies, etc.) and celebrate the holidays.
Incarnate Word, corner of Apricot & Dante
4:30PM - 6PM
Come a meet your neighbors for some caroling and holiday cheer.
Bring a treat (eggnog, cookies, etc.) and celebrate the holidays.
Cao to Host Town Hall on Chinese Drywall
***MEDIA ADVISORY***
Cao to Host Town Hall on Chinese Drywall
Washington, DC - Congressman Anh “Joseph” Cao (LA-2) will conduct a public town hall and briefing about Chinese drywall for Louisiana residents whose homes were rebuilt with this tainted material.
The event will be held on Monday, December 14, 2009 from 9:00am - 11:00am CST at The University of New Orleans (UNO), Homer L. Hitt Alumni Center.
Cao will lead a panel of government safety officials including representatives from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA) and state elected officials to provide updates on the work each is doing to combat Chinese drywall.
Orleans and Jefferson Parish residents should attend this town hall to:
• Receive a briefing on the federal and state initiatives to help victims.
• Learn how to remove tainted drywall from their home.
• Register Chinese drywall complaints.
Cao said: “A large number of Chinese drywall cases have been reported in the 2nd Congressional district, and my constituents deserve answers to their questions about the damage to their homes and their health concerns.”
Cao is a member of the Congressional Contaminated Drywall Caucus. The Caucus is leading the Congressional investigation into Chinese drywall, and examining solutions to help affected families across the country.
Event: “Congressman Cao’s Chinese Drywall Public Briefing”
Date: Monday, December 14, 2009
Time: 9:00am - 11:00am CST
Location: The University of New Orleans, Homer L. Hitt Alumni Center
Address: 2000 Lakeshore Drive, New Orleans, LA, building # 17, 2nd floor
CLICK HERE FOR A PDF MAP OF THE LOCATION
CLICK HERE FOR A PDF FLYER ABOUT THE EVENT
Driving directions:
Take I-10 East to the Elysian Fields exit and go North towards Lake Pontchartrain. Travel 3.4 miles to Alumni Drive and take a left. Proceed to Milneburg Road and take a right. As it veers left onto Levee Road, go beyond the Homer L. Hitt Alumni Center (Building # 17 on the map) and park in the adjacent lot. Destination is the building with the tall smoke stack.
Cao to Host Town Hall on Chinese Drywall
Washington, DC - Congressman Anh “Joseph” Cao (LA-2) will conduct a public town hall and briefing about Chinese drywall for Louisiana residents whose homes were rebuilt with this tainted material.
The event will be held on Monday, December 14, 2009 from 9:00am - 11:00am CST at The University of New Orleans (UNO), Homer L. Hitt Alumni Center.
Cao will lead a panel of government safety officials including representatives from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA) and state elected officials to provide updates on the work each is doing to combat Chinese drywall.
Orleans and Jefferson Parish residents should attend this town hall to:
• Receive a briefing on the federal and state initiatives to help victims.
• Learn how to remove tainted drywall from their home.
• Register Chinese drywall complaints.
Cao said: “A large number of Chinese drywall cases have been reported in the 2nd Congressional district, and my constituents deserve answers to their questions about the damage to their homes and their health concerns.”
Cao is a member of the Congressional Contaminated Drywall Caucus. The Caucus is leading the Congressional investigation into Chinese drywall, and examining solutions to help affected families across the country.
Event: “Congressman Cao’s Chinese Drywall Public Briefing”
Date: Monday, December 14, 2009
Time: 9:00am - 11:00am CST
Location: The University of New Orleans, Homer L. Hitt Alumni Center
Address: 2000 Lakeshore Drive, New Orleans, LA, building # 17, 2nd floor
CLICK HERE FOR A PDF MAP OF THE LOCATION
CLICK HERE FOR A PDF FLYER ABOUT THE EVENT
Driving directions:
Take I-10 East to the Elysian Fields exit and go North towards Lake Pontchartrain. Travel 3.4 miles to Alumni Drive and take a left. Proceed to Milneburg Road and take a right. As it veers left onto Levee Road, go beyond the Homer L. Hitt Alumni Center (Building # 17 on the map) and park in the adjacent lot. Destination is the building with the tall smoke stack.
Friday, December 11, 2009
8301 Apple Blight Hearing
Blight Hearing for
8301 Apple St.
Kenny D. Grover of 2612 Dante St.
New Orleans, LA
7011809-003579
Held on December 15, 2009 9:15 AM
at 1340 Poydras St. Suite 1100
This property was not on our 10 Worst List.
8301 Apple St.
Kenny D. Grover of 2612 Dante St.
New Orleans, LA
7011809-003579
Held on December 15, 2009 9:15 AM
at 1340 Poydras St. Suite 1100
This property was not on our 10 Worst List.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Mayoral Debate - Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Mayoral Debate
All Qualified Candidates for Mayor of New Orleans Invited To Participate
Date: Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Location: Xavier University Student Center Ballroom
Time: 6pm – 7pm
(doors open at 515p and close at 5:45p to assure seating by start of program)
Moderator: Norman Robinson
The Event will be televised by WDSU Channel 6
& streamed online at http://WWNO.org)
Sponsored By:
Common Good,
League of Women Voters,
National Council of Jewish Women New Orleans Section,
CBNO/MAC,
Urban League of Greater New Orleans,
Young Leadership Council,
NCBW 100,
The Links Incorporated - Pontchartrain Chapter,
EngageNOLA
Hosted by Xavier University
This event is open to the public. Parking is available.
Questions may be submitted from the audience during the event.
For more information, contact Joel Myers (972) 754-6604.
All Qualified Candidates for Mayor of New Orleans Invited To Participate
Date: Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Location: Xavier University Student Center Ballroom
Time: 6pm – 7pm
(doors open at 515p and close at 5:45p to assure seating by start of program)
Moderator: Norman Robinson
The Event will be televised by WDSU Channel 6
& streamed online at http://WWNO.org)
Sponsored By:
Common Good,
League of Women Voters,
National Council of Jewish Women New Orleans Section,
CBNO/MAC,
Urban League of Greater New Orleans,
Young Leadership Council,
NCBW 100,
The Links Incorporated - Pontchartrain Chapter,
EngageNOLA
Hosted by Xavier University
This event is open to the public. Parking is available.
Questions may be submitted from the audience during the event.
For more information, contact Joel Myers (972) 754-6604.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Bringing Nature Back II
Bringing Nature Back II
Volunteers Needed to Plant Trees at Audubon Louisiana Nature Center
REGISTER NOW
The Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana and Entergy Corporation invite you to participate in a forested wetland restoration project at Audubon Louisiana Nature Center. Prior to Hurricane Katrina, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center was named one of the top five urban nature centers in the United States. The Nature Center suffered considerable damage from Hurricane Katrina which devastated its interpretive center, exhibits and an estimated 75 percent of the forest was destroyed.
This project is being completed through a partnership with Entergy Corporation, Restore America's Estuaries, Audubon Nature Institute, RPM Ecosystems, Natural Resource Conservation Service and the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana. Volunteers will plant over 1,000 pots of various species of wetland trees, including bald cypress, red maple and pecan.
When: Saturday, December 12th from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Monday, December 14th from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Tuesday, December 15th from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Where: Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, 5600 Read Boulevard, New Orleans East (behind Joe Brown Park)
All planting equipment (gloves, shovels, dibbles, etc.) will be provided. Lunch and drinks will be provided to all volunteers. You can volunteer for one or more days. Additional information will be provided to volunteers after registration.
Register online or at www.crcl.org or by calling (888) LACOAST
Volunteers Needed to Plant Trees at Audubon Louisiana Nature Center
REGISTER NOW
The Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana and Entergy Corporation invite you to participate in a forested wetland restoration project at Audubon Louisiana Nature Center. Prior to Hurricane Katrina, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center was named one of the top five urban nature centers in the United States. The Nature Center suffered considerable damage from Hurricane Katrina which devastated its interpretive center, exhibits and an estimated 75 percent of the forest was destroyed.
This project is being completed through a partnership with Entergy Corporation, Restore America's Estuaries, Audubon Nature Institute, RPM Ecosystems, Natural Resource Conservation Service and the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana. Volunteers will plant over 1,000 pots of various species of wetland trees, including bald cypress, red maple and pecan.
When: Saturday, December 12th from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Monday, December 14th from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Tuesday, December 15th from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Where: Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, 5600 Read Boulevard, New Orleans East (behind Joe Brown Park)
All planting equipment (gloves, shovels, dibbles, etc.) will be provided. Lunch and drinks will be provided to all volunteers. You can volunteer for one or more days. Additional information will be provided to volunteers after registration.
Register online or at www.crcl.org or by calling (888) LACOAST
Friday, December 4, 2009
Meet & Greet the Candidates in NorthWest Carrollton
Tuesday December 8th, 2009
@ 7PM
@ 8410 Pritchard Place
Larry Halloran, NorthWest Carrollton resident, is holding a "Meet & Greet" for candidates running for public office.
Wine & Cheese Served.
All are Welcome.
@ 7PM
@ 8410 Pritchard Place
Larry Halloran, NorthWest Carrollton resident, is holding a "Meet & Greet" for candidates running for public office.
Wine & Cheese Served.
All are Welcome.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
ATM Safety Tips
ATMs are popping up everywhere. They can not only be found at banks, but also at shopping malls, convenience stores, drug stores, grocery stores, etc. The list goes on and on.
The presence of an ATM poses some potential safety threats. A would-be robber will obviously know an individual using an ATM will usually be leaving the machine with money. While protecting one's money is indeed important, what's more important is protecting your well-being. The following are some ATM safety and security tips. Take a few minutes to read them over and try to remember them the next time you pay a visit to an ATM, particularly one that is unfamiliar to you.
• At a drive-up ATM, keep all windows closed except the one you are using. Keep all doors locked as well. Keep the vehicle running. Watch in front, behind, and on the sides. If someone walks up to your vehicle, cancel the transaction and leave.
• If you exit your vehicle to use an ATM, lock your doors. When walking back, have your keys handy so that you can re-enter your car quickly.
• When approaching the ATM, be alert for anything or anyone suspicious in the area. If something just doesn't look right, leave.
• Never approach an ATM if the lights at the site are not working.
• Before you approach the ATM, have your card ready, know your code and have any slips or forms already completed.
• When using an ATM and someone approaches and gets closer to you than you are comfortable with, cancel the transaction and wait in your locked vehicle until that person leaves - or go to another ATM.
• Memorize your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Do not write it down on your card or carry it in your wallet or purse.
• Select a PIN that is different from other numbers in your wallet or purse, such as your birth date, address, social security number, etc.
• When using the ATM, stand directly in front of it, blocking the view of others. Don't enter your PIN if someone else can see the keyboard. As unusual as it may sound, criminals have been known to use high powered equipment to see PIN's. If your card is stolen or a false card is manufactured, your money then becomes vulnerable.
• Never accept offers of assistance with the ATM from strangers.
• When your transaction is complete, immediately take your property - card, receipt, money, etc., put them in your pocket, wallet, or purse and leave immediately.
• Do not stand and count your money. Count it later. Besides, if it is wrong, you cannot discuss it with the machine.
• As you leave the machine, keep your head up and be aware of your surroundings.
• Never tell your PIN to anyone. Likewise, never lend your card to anyone. Treat it like cash or a credit card.
The presence of an ATM poses some potential safety threats. A would-be robber will obviously know an individual using an ATM will usually be leaving the machine with money. While protecting one's money is indeed important, what's more important is protecting your well-being. The following are some ATM safety and security tips. Take a few minutes to read them over and try to remember them the next time you pay a visit to an ATM, particularly one that is unfamiliar to you.
• At a drive-up ATM, keep all windows closed except the one you are using. Keep all doors locked as well. Keep the vehicle running. Watch in front, behind, and on the sides. If someone walks up to your vehicle, cancel the transaction and leave.
• If you exit your vehicle to use an ATM, lock your doors. When walking back, have your keys handy so that you can re-enter your car quickly.
• When approaching the ATM, be alert for anything or anyone suspicious in the area. If something just doesn't look right, leave.
• Never approach an ATM if the lights at the site are not working.
• Before you approach the ATM, have your card ready, know your code and have any slips or forms already completed.
• When using an ATM and someone approaches and gets closer to you than you are comfortable with, cancel the transaction and wait in your locked vehicle until that person leaves - or go to another ATM.
• Memorize your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Do not write it down on your card or carry it in your wallet or purse.
• Select a PIN that is different from other numbers in your wallet or purse, such as your birth date, address, social security number, etc.
• When using the ATM, stand directly in front of it, blocking the view of others. Don't enter your PIN if someone else can see the keyboard. As unusual as it may sound, criminals have been known to use high powered equipment to see PIN's. If your card is stolen or a false card is manufactured, your money then becomes vulnerable.
• Never accept offers of assistance with the ATM from strangers.
• When your transaction is complete, immediately take your property - card, receipt, money, etc., put them in your pocket, wallet, or purse and leave immediately.
• Do not stand and count your money. Count it later. Besides, if it is wrong, you cannot discuss it with the machine.
• As you leave the machine, keep your head up and be aware of your surroundings.
• Never tell your PIN to anyone. Likewise, never lend your card to anyone. Treat it like cash or a credit card.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
8300 Block of Apple - Junked and Abandoned Vehicles
From: NorthWest Carrollton
To: Quality of Life Officer Eddington, Major Little, Robert Mendoza, Stacy Head, Shelley Midura, Safety & Permits Winston Reid
Cc: NWCCA Board
Subject: Junked and Abandoned Vehicles
Date: Nov 25, 2009 1:42 PM
We, the residents of NorthWest Carrollton, would like to have all junked and abandoned vehicles removed from our neighborhood. We know this is a never ending issue, but we also know that when the junked and abanboned vehicles are removed our neighborhood is better and safer. Yes, we think that broken windows theory has some validity.
Our Crime Liason, regularly reports problem vehicles on the street to our Quality of Life Officer. We have had much success in keeping to total number of junked and abandoned vehicles down.
But we are still fighting the good fight.
We'd like to see if it is possible to get this one specific car removed from the 8300 Block of Apple Street.
It has been here for almost 2 years and
it mets the criteria for junked vehicles on private property.
To: Quality of Life Officer Eddington, Major Little, Robert Mendoza, Stacy Head, Shelley Midura, Safety & Permits Winston Reid
Cc: NWCCA Board
Subject: Junked and Abandoned Vehicles
Date: Nov 25, 2009 1:42 PM
We, the residents of NorthWest Carrollton, would like to have all junked and abandoned vehicles removed from our neighborhood. We know this is a never ending issue, but we also know that when the junked and abanboned vehicles are removed our neighborhood is better and safer. Yes, we think that broken windows theory has some validity.
Our Crime Liason, regularly reports problem vehicles on the street to our Quality of Life Officer. We have had much success in keeping to total number of junked and abandoned vehicles down.
But we are still fighting the good fight.
We'd like to see if it is possible to get this one specific car removed from the 8300 Block of Apple Street.
It has been here for almost 2 years and
it mets the criteria for junked vehicles on private property.
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