Category Archives: District News

Benefit Kitchen on Myrtle Avenue

Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership is excited to launch a new partnership with technology startup Benefit Kitchen.

Benefit Kitchen is a free financial literacy platform that connects working families with a path out of poverty. In under 10 minutes, you can learn about your eligibility and estimated dollar amounts for up to 18 federal, state, and local benefits, unlocking up to $13,000 for your household annually! The quick screening also provides information about how to apply for Food Stamps, Medicaid, WIC, TANF, HEAP, tax credits, child care and other benefits.

We’ve partnered with Benefit Kitchen to add local benefits and resources to the screener. The Myrtle Avenue screener will reveal both government/non-profit resources as well as local merchant offerings, which helps stretch household budgets even further (ie. discount eye exams for families eligible for Medicaid, local grocery stores that accept SNAP).

Project Goals:
We’ve set a goal to complete 2500 screenings this year in our community!  We want to reach as many residents as possible, and unlock as many benefits as possible. We’ll send trained volunteers to our program events, community events, local meetings and partner organizations to assist with the screening. We’ll also launch an outreach campaign to tell people how they can complete the screening on their own – it’s easy!

If you’re interested in becoming a Benefit Kitchen volunteer, please reach out to us at info@myrtleavenue.org or 718-230-1689 ext 3#.

Project Funders:
Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership and Benefit Kitchen are one of five winning teams selected to receive $100,000 from SBS’ Neighborhood Challenge Program. We were selected from a pool of 12 finalists who pitched their proposals to a panel of judges at the Hub @ Grand Central Tech in spring 2017. Awardees will use funding to implement tailored, data-driven solutions that build the capacity of CBOs to address the challenges in their commercial districts.

Grantees will have one year to complete projects that address a significant commercial district challenge and have a measureable impact on the commercial district management organization’s operations. Beyond the year of implementation, Neighborhood Challenge projects are intended to serve as catalysts that have the potential for long-term sustainability and positive economic impact. Neighborhood Challenge receives funding from the New York City Economic Development Corporation.

Project Partners & Supporters:
Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership
Benefit Kitchen
Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams
Afro Punk Army

FIND YOUR BENEFITS

Guide: New Art in the Neighborhood

We are fortunate to live in a neighborhood that continually seeks to engage residents and visitors alike through events, community initiatives and even art!  While there are some prominently displayed murals and sculptures along Myrtle Avenue, you may not know that some of these installations have been created in our neighborhood by internationally renowned and sometimes locally trained artists. Let’s take a look at some of the art and artists that have helped make Fort Greene and Clinton Hill come to life recently.

Ingersoll Cornerstone Community Center mural, by Groundswell Mural Project

177 Myrtle Avenue

You’ve probably heard Groundswell Community Mural Project.  They have hundreds of murals found across all 5 boroughs and in New Jersey.  One of their latest works can be seen at the Ingersoll Cornerstone Community Center.  This colorful mural depicts neighborhood life and history through bright colors and a bold creative vision.

Adorn Me, by artist Tands Francis at Fort Greene Park

Fort Greene Park at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park

A new sculpture is coming to Fort Greene Park by way of Brooklyn artist Tanda Francis.  Titled, Adorn Me, this sculpture seeks to bring an African presence to a public space in order to highlight the under-representation of African artworks in public spaces.   Adorn Me will be on view in the park from 2018 – 2019.

Fort Greene Mural

340 Myrtle Avenue and Carlton

Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership commissioned this mural by artist Mischa Tyutyunik bring life to a blank wall and express neighborhood pride. Artist Tyutyunik, also known as MDOT, is a Ukranian born artist that studied at nearby Pratt Institute.

I Ought To installation by Matthew Gellar

550 Myrtle Ave btw Emerson Place & Steuben Street

The innovation and practicality of this Matthew Gellar’s, I Ought To, creates a fun moment and brief respite within the Myrtle Avenue Plaza.  Part sculpture, water feature (when it rains) and seating area, this permanent installation pays reference to traditional stained glass.  Stop there to take in the beauty, or your lunch.

And while some of these murals and sculptures are new to Myrtle Avenue, many have been here for years, surrounding us at all times.  And there are plenty more to experience, if you know where to seek them out.

BKG Roasters garden mural.

557 Myrtle Avenue

Roachi mural on the side of John’s Donut and Coffee Shop.

481 Myrtle Avenue

Swoon mural

340 Myrtle Avenue and Carlton

 

The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership collaborates with community partners to bring Arts and Culture programs to Myrtle Avenue.  These programs increase access to art for the entire community, create opportunities for both emerging and established artists, and invite visitors to enjoy cultural experiences in the district.  Arts and Culture initiatives are supported in part by the Myrtle Avenue BID and the Tess & Tom Schutte Community Arts & Culture fund.

 

 

Myrtle Ave Turns TEAL for Ovarian Cancer Awareness

In September, the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership is partnering with Brooklyn-based women’s health group Tell Every Amazing Lady (T.E.A.L.) for national ovarian cancer awareness month. For the third year in a row, we will be teaming up with T.E.A.L. to participate to help raise awareness by adorning Myrtle Avenue storefronts and street trees with teal ribbon. The purpose of the ribbons is to bring awareness to women about the disease that over 22,000 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with this year.

T.E.A.L’s primary mission is to educate women about ovarian cancer and to raise funding for research. Several businesses are providing opportunities this month for their customers to easily donate while they shop. Stay tuned for upcoming teal-colored promotions!

Want to help support T.E.A.L.?

Here are three easy ways you can help the fight against ovarian cancer:

Another Successful YEMP Year!

Young Entrepreneurs Mentorship Program, Class of 2018.

As the 2018 Young Entrepreneur Mentorship Program (YEMP) comes to a close, we look back with pride, at the 19 students that were selected to participate in this, the 12th year of the program!

Starting in early July, the students were employed across a diverse mix of businesses that offered skills in retail, hospitality, fashion, health & wellness, design and technology.  Working 10 hours a week, these YEMP participants were employed at local Myrtle Avenue businesses and for the first time, through the Pratt Institute’s Brooklyn Fashion and Design Accelerator, located in the Pfizer building in south Williamsburg.

Our student’s responsibilities ranged from to customer service, stocking, inventory and retail organization and upkeep, 3D printer maintenance, fabric dying and sample making, to setting up events in the newly opened Myrtle Avenue Plaza and working tables at local street fairs. The skills learned during the 7-week program help students create a tool-kit of skills and experiences that they can take from the program and into all of their future endeavors, while getting a valuable head start on job experience.  In addition to their work hours, the students participated in two workshops about the working world.  Before working at the Fashion Accelerator, students were also enrolled in a 7- week design entrepreneur class at Pratt Institute that was completed before their placement at businesses within the Accelerator.

We would like to give a big thanks to the Myrtle Avenue and Pratt’s Brooklyn Fashion and Design Accelerator businesses that opened their doors to our students, mentoring and supporting their growth while helping to create a path to success!  This truly would not be possible without you!

Participating Myrtle Avenue Businesses

Participating Brooklyn Fashion and Design Accelerator Businesses

Program Sponsors

The YEMP 2018-2019 Program would not be possible without the generous support of the following sponsors:

About  

YEMP is a summer employment and mentorship program for local youth where teens gain valuable paid work experiences. The program places teens to work with Myrtle Avenue businesses and other organizations to learn important business and creative problem-solving skills. The competitive application process only accommodates 25 high school teens per year.

LEARN MORE

$15k in Grants Awarded to Local Businesses

New signage at The Emerson.

Believe it or not, looks matter!  Of course, we are talking about the appearances of storefronts on Myrtle Avenue.  Having a distinct storefront can quickly engage customers as to what a business sells or what services are offered.  Not only that, but the look of a storefront can help define an identity in a neighborhood business corridor, such as Myrtle Avenue.

With this in mind, the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn BID continues to offer grant money to local businesses through their Storefront Improvement Grant program. This past year, the BID awarded $15,000, assisting six local businesses with improvement projects. This mutually beneficial program helps Myrtle Avenue business improve their appearance but providing technical assistance and funding to help update storefront signage, remove solid roll-down security gates, and in some cases, sidewalk cafes.

Below is a rundown of some of the businesses who the program assisted this past year:

Villa Pancho
472 Myrtle Avenue

The bright colors and artistic design of the signage help make this Mexican restaurant pop.  And their new lighted TACOS sign is there to help, serving as a beacon for those late-night taco runs.

The Emerson
561 Myrtle Avenue

This local bar used their grant money to get new “The Emerson” lettering on their window.  They also used the funds to give a fresh coat of striking red paint to their doors, ensuring no one passes by this favorite watering hole.

Tipsy
584 Myrtle Avenue

Tipsy went big and used their funds toward updating their security roll down gates. Now people can still do a little wine window-shopping, even while the shop is closed! These gates help to keep customers engaged, even when down, while also allowing light from the shop to illuminate the street at night which lends an extra sense of security for local residents walking by at night.

Vitality Health & Wellness Bar

475-B Myrtle Avenue

Vitality, a relatively new business in the neighborhood, made sure their signage would command attention! Signage placed at different angles assures that no one will miss it while out on Myrtle Avenue.

Brazils Waxing Center
362 Myrtle Avenue

This shop, which recently celebrated their Grand Opening, installed signage that not only conveys the services they offer but allows people to see into their immaculate facilities.

Hudson Jane
360 Myrtle Avenue

Hudson Jane got creative and used their funds to create an outdoor seating area for their café.  Now that they have extended their hours and offer dinner, their customers can enjoy street-side seats during the day or at night. And who doesn’t love a meal while people watching on one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Brooklyn?!

Since the inception of the Storefront Improvement Grant program, in 2005, the Myrtle Avenue Business Improvement District has awarded over $103,000 to more than 75 businesses along Myrtle Avenue between Flatbush Avenue Extension to Classon Avenue.

Grant funding is still available! Business owners in the Myrtle Avenue BID are invited to apply for a BID Storefront Grant by contacting the BID at hello@myrtleavenue.org or (718) 230-1689, #1.

 

WATCH: New Fort Greene Mural Painted on Myrtle

A new selfie spot has popped up on Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene. A colorful mural was painted last week at Myrtle and Carlton Avenues by artist Misha Tyutyunik, and commissioned by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership.

Fort Greene Patch has the full story:

“A new mural to show pride in Fort Greene has taken over the side of a laundromat on Myrtle Avenue this week.

Artist Misha Tyutyunik painted the colorful “FORT GREENE” mural on the side of the 340 Myrtle Ave. laundromat, on the corner of Carlton Avenue, which he completed on Wednesday.

The piece was put together by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership, who said they wanted to brighten up the corner with a piece celebrating Fort Greene.

“We had a vision for a simple mural that would bring some life to a blank wall and express neighborhood pride, and Misha did a fantastic job executing it in his style,” said Meredith Phillips Almeida, executive director of the group, in a statement.

Tyutyunik started the piece earlier this week and it took him two days to transform the drab green wall into the colorful neighborhood piece, Phillips Almeida said.”

The Myrtle Avenue Plaza Officially Opens!

Joined by local leaders, city officials, and business owners, Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership Executive Director Meredith Phillips Almeida cuts the ribbon to officially open Myrtle Avenue Plaza and to kick off its summer series “Move on Myrtle” of free programs in the new public space. More images from yesterday’s event available here . (All photos by Samuel Stuart.)

The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership (the Partnership) officially opened Myrtle Avenue Plaza, a 25,000-square-foot pedestrian plaza in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn between Hall Street and Emerson Place, on Thursday, June 21 with a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony aligned with the kick off of its free summer public program series: “Move on Myrtle.”

Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership Executive Director Meredith Phillips Almeida hosted a brief ceremony attended by officials and local leaders including Raffaele DiMaggio, Vice-President, TD Bank, and the Partnership Board Member; Gregg Bishop , Commissioner, Small Business Services, City of New York; Laurie A. Cumbo , Majority Leader, New York City Council; Emily Weidenhof , Plaza Program Director, New York City Department of Transportation; Joseph R. Lentol , New York State Assemblyman; and Frances Bronet , President, Pratt Institute.

Visitors to the Plaza on opening day enjoyed performances for Make Music New York, a citywide music celebration, by acts including the Benny Lopez Latin Jazz Band, Edwin Vazquez Musica, Utril Rhaburn Nomadic, Squala Orphan, Mijori Goodwin, and Thomas Piper and Friends.

Myrtle Avenue Plaza was initially conceived in 2007 by the Partnership, which oversees the BID and the Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project, and it was one of the first public space improvement projects funded by the New York City (NYC) Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Plaza Program in 2008. The project spans four blocks and turned two blocks of an asphalt service road into a tree-lined pedestrian destination with 50 benches and tables forming a space for recreation and community events. Construction of Myrtle Avenue Plaza was managed by the NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC), which broke ground on the project in October 2014.

The project cost approximately $7 million. In addition to the funding from NYC DOT, funding came from the New York City Council through Letitia James, who now is the city’s Public Advocate and the Brooklyn Borough President’s Office at the recommendation of former President Marty Markowitz. Since the project was underway for nearly 10 years, current New York City Council Majority Leader Laurie Cumbo and current Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams tirelessly supported the project through to completion.

“ We are proud to see the residents and merchants in our community enjoying this vibrant new public space,” says the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership Executive Director Meredith Phillips Almeida. “It’s been exciting to watch our vision come to life after years of community outreach, fundraising, design, and construction. We look forward to producing programs this summer in Myrtle Avenue Plaza that bring an element of art and culture to the avenue and that allow us to serve our community as well as attract new visitors to our district.”

“Through our network of 75 BIDs across the five boroughs, we know that communities thrive when they come together,” says Gregg Bishop, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Small Business Services. “ By opening this new plaza, the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership is helping to build a stronger neighborhood by providing a space for residents, merchants, and visitors to come together.”

“ The development of Myrtle Avenue Plaza has created a vital epicenter for the neighborhood and its local businesses. TD Bank is proud to support ‘Move On Myrtle’ 2018 as part of its commitment to ensuring that small businesses thrive,” says Peter M. Meyer, NYC Market President, TD Bank.

One of the Myrtle Avenue Plaza project highlights is a public art installation by New York-based artist Matthew Geller titled I Ought To (2017) for which he used carbon and stainless steel, cast iron, cast glass, and concrete to create a trio of round stools capped by a circular corten steel and hand-cast glass concave canopy. According to the artist, “ the canopy is a witty conflation of the pedestrian and the sacred: a 19th-century illuminated manhole cover enlarged to the size of a rose window, a standard feature of Gothic cathedrals.”

The first public programming series to take place at Myrtle Avenue Plaza, “Move on Myrtle” is sponsored by TD Bank and will include fitness programming, interactive events for kids, lunchtime jazz performances, and sunset dance parties. Below is the full list of summer 2018 programs, which are free and open to the public. All will take place at the Myrtle Avenue Plaza on Myrtle Avenue between Hall Street and Emerson Place. Subway: G train to Classon Avenue.

A full lineup of events can be found here.

Free Community Bike Rides Return for 2018

Join the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership and take a spin around the neighborhood. We’ve partnered with The Brown Bike Girl to host FREE group bike rides the 1st Saturday of the month around Brooklyn, starting in Fort Greene Park. All ages, abilities are welcome!

No bike? No problem. You can borrow a FREE Citi Bike (ages 16+).

REGISTER

CLICK HERE or email hello@myrtleavenue.org.

BIKE RIDE DATES

* A special ride will be held on Thursday, May 24 at 6pm, beginning at Fort Greene Park’s Citi Bike station at the corner of Washington Park and Willoughby Ave  *

Saturday Rides meetup at 9:30am at Fort Greene Park’s Citi Bike station
at the corner of Washington Park and Willoughby Ave on:

Saturday, June 2nd  CANCELLED DUE TO RAIN

Saturday, July 7th

Saturday, August 4th

Rides canceled if raining.

Click image to enlarge.

Can’t make a ride in Fort Greene/Clinton Hill? Join our Community Partner Bed-Stuy Restoration Corporation and its partners to take a spin around the neighborhood. Meet them every Wednesday and Saturday, from May through October. For more info click here.

Please note, Citi Bike rentals are subject to availability.

FREE Neighborhood Walking Tours Return for Summer

Reservations are now being accepted for our popular summer historic walking tour series!  Visit our Events Calendar to find a date and to reserve a ticket.

The Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project LDC (MARP), in collaboration with the Fort Greene Park Conservancy, will be hosting a FREE neighborhood walking tour series this summer. Two guided tours will be available each month, one exploring Fort Greene Park and the other the historic Wallabout neighborhood north of Myrtle Avenue.

The Wallabout Historic Walking Tour will discuss the neighborhood’s 400 years of history, from a rural farming community to a 20th century urban neighborhood and industrial center. This tour is held the third Saturday of each month, May through October.

The Fort Greene Park Walking Tour discusses the park history, with focus on the storied life of Walt Whitman, a leading advocate for the neighborhood park.  This tour is held the second Saturday of each month, from May through August.

Each of the tours last approximately 90 minutes and begin at 11am at the Fort Greene Park Visitor Center.  All tours are FREE and open to all.

RSVPs are required and can be made by clicking here or by calling (718) 230-1689 ext 1#.

Information on Walt Whitman, along with the reciting of some of his and other’s works during the tours, is provided by the Walt Whitman Project and the American Opera Projects.

The Wallabout Historic Walking Tours 2018 is sponsored by:

The People Have Spoken: Myrtle Survey Results

From local events to street cleaning to new business wants, Myrtle Avenue shoppers had a lot to say in our recent neighborhood survey. Over 550 people responded to the survey both online and through paper surveys available at local businesses and distributed at local events. Below are some highlights of what people had to say.

Top 5 Takeaways

  1. THE BIG DRAWS The top three activities that bring people to Myrtle Avenue most often are grocery shopping, dining out, and banking
  2. COMPETITORS Fulton Mall and online shopping are the places survey takers find themselves shopping most often (besides Myrtle Avenue of course)
  3. SHOPPING When asked, “what items had you purchased in the past month that you wish you could have bought on Myrtle Avenue?,” the top three responses were apparel, specialty or organic food, and a  gym membership
  4. APPEARANCES 90%+ of people are satisfied with Myrtle Avenue’s cleanliness and appreciate the custom tree guards that feature local artwork
  5. EVENTS When asked about what types of local events people would like to see happen on Myrtle Avenue, the most popular responses were live music and health and wellness activities.

Some Choice Words

When asked to name businesses people would like to see open on Myrtle Avenue, it was clear there are some things more popular than others. The word cloud above shows that the clear winner for “most in demand” business is a full-service gym.

 

We asked survey takers to use three words they would use to best describe Myrtle Avenue. The clear favorites here were diverse, convenient and friendly.

 

Who We Were Talking To

Of the 560 survey takers, we asked a few simple demographic questions to help us ensure we were hearing from a diverse group of locals. Below is a brief snapshot:

  • Over two-thirds of the survey takers lived on Myrtle Avenue or nearby in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill
  • About half of the people have lived in the neighborhood for 10 years or more
  • 16% of people lived in a household earning less than $25,000/year; another 20% fell within $50,000-100,000/year; another 20% with household incomes of $150,000+/year
  • 35% of respondents have children living in their household
  • About half of the survey takers were between 25-44 years old, and another third between 45-64 years old.

Have Something To More to Say?

Although the survey is now closed, you can always provide feedback or ideas about the Myrtle Avenue to us. Send us an email or give us a call at (718) 230-1689.

Now Open: Brazils Waxing Center

Tired of the hassles associated with shaving? An innovate, clean, and qualified waxing facility is now open in Fort Greene! Brazils Waxing Center specializes in full body, all-natural, vegan hard waxing for both men and women, young and old, in a judgment-free, body positive zone. Their lay-down style waxing tables, medical grade supplies, and clean and chic facility will change the way you look at waxing.

Located at the corner of Myrtle and Adelphi at 362 Myrtle Avenue, Brazils Waxing Center offers a variety of services for both men and women from Monday-Sunday.

Waxing is what they do. The same all-natural, vegan hard wax is used for all their services. No more wondering how long the wax has been sitting in your wax room prior to your service. Brazils Waxing Center gives you a fresh pot of wax just for you, every time.

They use a custom blend our own hard wax and no cloth strips are used, so their wax sticks to hair, not skin. Much less discomforting than conventional soft wax and perfect for even the most sensitive skin!

New visitors can easily and affordably try Brazils’ very popular Brazilian wax for only $30 on their first visit. They accept both scheduled appointments and walk-ins.

Schedule your appointment now at http://bit.ly/BWCBook

Brazils Waxing Center 362 Myrtle Ave, (917) 423-2377

 

Coming Soon: Urgent Care, Pies, & More

On Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill, new businesses are slated to open, including Petee’s Pie and a new bar in the two available storefronts seen here.

With the arrival of new restaurants, shops, and services like urgent care, the commercial strip along Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill continues to grow. So far in 2018, seven new businesses signed leases or opened their doors on Myrtle Avenue. Below is a round-up of what’s new and what’s coming soon to the neighborhood:

MedRite Urgent Care

No appointment necessary. Urgent care is arriving on Myrtle Avenue with the opening of MedRite at 504 Myrtle Avenue in late 2018. This will be MedRite’s sixth location and its first in Brooklyn.
MedRite Urgent Care, 504 Myrtle Avenue

Smoothie King

Moving in next door to MedRite Urgent Care, Smoothie King will open its 3rd New York City location in 2018 in Clinton Hill at 504 Myrtle Avenue. The smoothie shop, which began in New Orleans in 1973, now has over 800 locations around the world
Smoothie King, 504 Myrtle Avenue

Petee’s Pie – NOW OPEN

This popular Lower East Side bake-shop will be expanding, with a second location set to open at 505 Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill. They are planning an opening in the next few months.
Petee’s Pie, 505 Myrtle Avenue

The Yard BK

A new American restaurant has signed a lease at 471 Myrtle Avenue, between Washington Avenue and Hall Street. They have just begun a long process of overhauling the old space which includes outfitting an enormous backyard space! Stay on top of their progress by following them on their new Instagram page.
The Yard BK, 471 Myrtle Avenue

Salon Rhed

A full-service salon, offering services for men and women, including braids, hair replacement, extensions, locs and services for natural hair. Opening this spring.
Salon Rhed, 374 Myrtle Avenue

Dun Huang Miss Noodle

Found at 531 Myrtle Avenue, between Steuben and Grand, this Chinese noodle house will be the second outpost of the popular Dun Huang noodle restaurant in Flushing.
Dun Huang Miss Noodle, 531 Myrtle Avenue

Interested in opening a business on Myrtle Avenue? Click here to find a list of available storefronts and local retail market data.

Sign The Petition for a Crosswalk at Grand Avenue

Over 500 people have signed the petition calling for a safe crosswalk at Myrtle Grand. Sign your name and help us reach our goal of 1,000 signatures!

On Myrtle Avenue, we have started to make our New Year’s resolutions and at the top of our list is a crosswalk at Myrtle and Grand Avenues.

We have launched a petition to install a crosswalk on Myrtle Avenue at Grand Avenue. You can read the petition below, but please sign it here to tell the NYC Department of Transportation that a crosswalk at Grand Avenue will make Myrtle Avenue safer for everyone.

SIGN THE PETITION

We ask that the NYC Department of Transportation install a crosswalk on Myrtle Avenue at Grand Avenue. Currently, there is no crosswalk on Myrtle Avenue between Hall Street and Emerson Place, a four block stretch of a busy commercial corridor. Without a crosswalk, Myrtle Avenue is often difficult and dangerous to cross.

The everyday things people do on Myrtle Avenue – buy groceries, catch the bus, grab a meal or drink with friends – all require walking blocks out of the way or taking your chance dodging traffic. Meanwhile, Myrtle Avenue Plaza, a large public space on the south side, has plenty of seating but no crosswalk access for four blocks. These conditions are especially problematic given the large number of senior citizens that live and shop nearby.

Adding a crosswalk signal to Myrtle Avenue at Grand Avenue will make Myrtle Avenue safer. Please sign this petition to let the NYC Department of Transportation know that four blocks is too far without a pedestrian crossing signal.

SIGN THE PETITION

New Public Art Coming to Myrtle Avenue

‘Adorn Me’ by Tanda Francis.

Myrtle Avenue will continue to be an open-air art gallery with the announcement of a new public art piece coming to Fort Greene this summer. NYC Parks has announced the installation of “Adorn Me”, a new temporary piece at the entrance of Fort Greene Park, at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park.

A sculpture by Brooklyn-based artist Tanda Francis will be unveiled this June in a space that has become home to a number of temporary public art installations over the past decade. The piece is one of 10 temporary installations being installed in public parks throughout the city this year as part of the “Art in the Parks: UNIQLO Park Expressions Grant” program. This initiative, which began last year, “builds on NYC Parks’ equity initiatives by bringing public art exhibits to parks in need of cultural programming,” according to NYC Park’s website.

Local partners participated with NYC Parks and UNIQLO in selecting pieces for installation at specific sites. The Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership was thrilled to be part of this process again, along with fellow local partner Fort Greene Park Conservancy, in advocating for “Adorn Me” to be placed on Myrtle Avenue.

About the Artwork

From NYC Park’s website:
“Tanda Francis’ work examines the African presence in public space as a powerful force of beauty and cultural relevance. Inspired by African sculptural tradition, including Ife portraiture, Francis also incorporates Victorian and colonial ornamentation into her work. Adorn Me will address the underrepresentation of this demographic in public artworks, and provide a healing message during a time of heated debate over monuments erected as symbols of oppression and control.”

To learn more about Tanda Francis, click here. For more information about the “Art in the Parks: UNIQLO Park Expressions Grant” program, click here.

Women’s History Month on Myrtle Avenue

Bishop A. Rice of Bishop Memorial Mission at Myrtle Ave & Emerson Pl.

March is Women’s History Month. Each week, we’ll profile an incredible woman whose work over the years has made Myrtle Avenue a great place. 

Born to Serve: Bishop A. Rice

For more than 20 years, a door has been open in Clinton Hill to those in need of help and hope. The Bishop Memorial Mission at Myrtle Avenue and Emerson Place is truly that – a mission. A mission led by a woman who has been dedicated to service and faith. This week, we sat down with Bishop Rice, founder and minister at the Bishop Memorial Mission and church, to learn more about her and the mission’s work in serving the neighborhood for more than two decades.

Personally Called to Serve

Bishop A. Rice says she was always called to serve, a feeling that was present from her childhood in South Carolina, to when she moved to Fort Greene in the 1970s, and still today. While originally she thought that meant going into education and becoming a teacher, she found the calling to serve in a spiritual sense strong and became a minister.

The Mission’s Work

Bishop Rice runs the mission with three H’s in mind: Give hope to the hopeless, feed the hungry, and help the helpless. The mission began with preparing meals for the hungry, and that work continues with a weekly pantry, open to anyone in hunger with no questions asked. In addition to food, the Mission also provides free clothing and runs programming for youth. From their preschool programs to after-school activities for kids, Bishop Rice believes it is vital to have activities for local youth because “there’s a lot of good children but we make them by not providing them services.”

“When people are in need, take them at their own worth; not what they think they’re worth.”
– Bishop A. Rice

All of these programs lead a full schedule each week for Bishop Rice and volunteers at the Mission. The food pantry is available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning; adult Bible study is Wednesday evenings, youth night on Fridays, and church services on Sunday.

A Changing Neighborhood

Since moving to Brooklyn in the early 1970s, Bishop Rice has seen tremendous change in Fort the Greene and Clinton Hill neighborhoods. There are some of the smaller changes like seeing businesses close, including the Renken Diner at the corner of Myrtle and Classon (where Tipsy wine and spirits is now), where she worked as a waitress in the 1970s and 80s. She of course also remembers seismic events, like 9/11 when she opened the mission’s doors to house and feed volunteer firefighters who had arrived from Texas to help with the aftermath.

And there are larger issues, including displacement of residents due to rising housing costs. While the Bishop has seen neighbors and church members move out, she, of course, has seen many new faces arrive in the neighborhood as well. To the new neighbors, she invites them to become involved by volunteering at the church or donating clothes. As the Bishop said in our interview, “everybody can help somebody.”

To learn more, please visit the mission at 127 Emerson Place (between Myrtle & Willoughby), call (917) 648-3836, or follow them on Facebook.

Want to read about more incredible women on Myrtle Avenue? Click below to read our other Women History Month profiles:

Podcast Explores Black Arts Heritage in Fort Greene & Clinton Hill

Black Artstory Tour Collage

Enjoy strolling the streets of Fort Greene and Clinton Hill while you learn about the area’s rich Black arts history through a self-guided walking tour.  The Myrtle Avenue Black Artstory Tour is available as a podcast to download from any mobile device.

This walking tour explore’s the neighborhood’s rich history as a home to many famous and influential Black artists.  While there are countless local artists who lead incredible lives and merit attention, this tour focuses on eight different individuals who helped define the neighborhood’s lasting legacy as an enclave for Black artists.

Click here to view the tour route map and a list of artists included in the tour.

The tour is part of the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership’s annual Myrtle Avenue Black Artstory Month, held each February to locally celebrate Black History Month.  This self-guided tour is also part of the Partnership’s larger walking tour series, which includes guided historic walks through the Wallabout neighborhood.  View the events calendar to find more details and to register for an upcoming Wallabout Historic Walking Tour in September or October.

Farm Fresh Box

The Farm Fresh Box season has ended.

Enjoy farm fresh produce conveniently with the Myrtle Avenue Farm Fresh Box program. Unlike a traditional CSA, the Farm Fresh Box program offers an affordable pay-as-you-go option to purchase a box of produce with no commitments to order an entire season’s worth of vegetables and fruits.

Thank You

The Farm Fresh Box program would not have been possible without the help and support from volunteers. A big THANK YOU to all of the volunteers who have helped this season, including program intern Yequarah Connor!

Summer intern Yequarah Connor volunteering at Farm Fresh Box pick-up.

From left to right – Erica & Dana from Corbinhill Food Project with Program Manager, Shaquana, and Farm Fresh Box Volunteer

Community volunteer Ruth packing Farm Fresh Boxes at our Corkscrew Wines site.

Valentine’s Day Specials on Myrtle Ave

Local merchants are keeping the love alive after Valentine’s Day by extending special offers past the holiday. Below is the shortlist of where to score great deals during the last half of February:Hair & Co BKLYN is offering 20% off to first-time clients for the entire week of Valentine’s Day (that goes until Feb 17).
487 Myrtle Ave, (718) 789-2390

Save up to $16 (33% off) on special trio packs of body washes, lotions, and polishes at European Wax Center.

European Wax Center is offering up a lot of great deals to help prep for the romantic holiday, including 50% off Brazillian or Bikini waxes. Also this month, receive up to 33% off special Valentine’s Day trio packs of body washes and lotions.
531 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 530-0307Clinton Hill Simply Art & Framing is offering $20 off custom framing jobs that use red or white frames throughout the entire month of February.
582 Myrtle Ave, (718) 857-0074

Designer eyewear is $100 off at Optical Gallery.

Optical Gallery is offering 10% off on any promo, sales, or regular purchases. There is also a post-holiday sale of $100 off glasses with frames by Calvin Klein, Chanel, Versace, Prada, Fendi, and Marc by Marc Jacobs
446 Myrtle Ave, (718) 246-2020

Give the gift of a STRAIGHT SMILE to your loved ones for Valentine’s Day. Kaufman’s Children Dental is giving a $500 voucher off of Invisalign Treatments during the entire month of February. They are also offering a FREE CONSULTATION to new patients.
549 Myrtle Ave, (718) 395-4823

Neighborhood specials to enjoy on Valentine’s Day:

Gnarly Vines is featuring a Grab ‘n’ Go Four Pack. Usually priced at $65.50, it is now $58.95, plus you get a free tote! The pack includes a mix of a white, rose, red, and tequila.
350 Myrtle Ave, (718) 797-3183

Peck’s is offering a special beer and chocolate pairing. Give the shop a call for specific product and pricing info.
455A Myrtle Ave, (347) 689-4969

Matcha cheesecake at Ugu, 541 Myrtle Ave

U-gu is offering you free matcha cheesecake with your meal.
541 Myrtle Ave, (718) 857-0222

Wine Legend’s ongoing Wednesday pre-fixe dinner special happens to fall on Valentine’s Day, offering the perfect date night experience. Enjoy a 3-course pre-fixe dinner – drink included! – for just $29.99.
166 Myrtle Ave, (347) 422-0015

Hair & Co BKLYN is offering 20% off to first-time clients for the entire week of Valentine’s Day (that goes until Feb 17).
487 Myrtle Ave, (718) 789-2390

Roses at Bella Rosa flower shop.

Bella Rosa flower shop has you covered when it comes to the most tried and true Valentine’s Day gift: roses. Or, if you’re Valentine has been a bit prickly this year, why not get them a cactus as a subtle message to step it up?
566 Myrtle Ave, (347) 763-6006

Green in Bklyn offers a perfect and delicious way to say “I Love You” with selections from their chocolate case, including truffles and chocolate covered pretzels.
432 Myrtle Ave, (718) 855-4383

Save up to $16 (33% off) on special trio packs of body washes, lotions, and polishes at European Wax Center.

European Wax Center is offering up a lot of great deals to help prep for the romantic holiday, including 50% off Brazillian or Bikini waxes. Also this month, receive up to 33% off special Valentine’s Day trio packs of body washes and lotions.
531 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 530-0307

Jill Lindsey is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a week of “Self Love” events ranging from guided meditation, healthy cooking classes, valentine-making for yourself, and manifesting love workshops with Jill! They also have their Men’s shop – an area set up for men to pick up gifts and flowers – all wrapped while they sit back and have a beer, coffee, or wine in the shop.
370 Myrtle Ave, (347) 987-4538

Couples decanter set, available at Tipsy.

This year, Tipsy has come up with some romantic dinner ideas and is suggesting a wine from the shop to pair with each meal. They’ll also be featuring the “Ours Decanter Set” – a great gift for couples to enjoy together.
584 Myrtle Ave, (347) 599-1672

Clinton Hill Simply Art & Framing is offering $20 off custom framing jobs that use red or white frames throughout the entire month of February.
582 Myrtle Ave, (718) 857-0074

Heart-shaped pizza at Liberty Pizza, 480 Myrtle Ave.

Liberty Pizza is here to help you really impress your Valentine by offering up heart-shaped pizzas! Just give the shop a call to place an order.
482 Myrtle Ave, (718) 789-0600

Designer eyewear is $100 off at Optical Gallery.

Optical Gallery is offering 10% off on any promo, sales, or regular purchases. There is also a post-holiday sale of $100 off glasses with frames by Calvin Klein, Chanel, Versace, Prada, Fendi, and Marc by Marc Jacobs
446 Myrtle Ave, (718) 246-2020

Give the gift of a STRAIGHT SMILE to your loved ones for Valentine’s Day. Kaufman’s Children Dental is giving a $500 voucher off of Invisalign Treatments during the entire month of February. They are also offering a FREE CONSULTATION to new patients.
549 Myrtle Ave, (718) 395-4823

What’s Coming to Myrtle Avenue in 2018

2018 will surely bring many new things to Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. One thing we are looking forward to is the opening of new businesses on Myrtle Avenue, bringing new services to the neighborhood like urgent care. Below is the full list of what’s already in the works for new storefronts on Myrtle Avenue, with openings planned in 2018:

MedRite Urgent Care

No appointment necessary. Urgent care is arriving on Myrtle Avenue with the opening of MedRite at 504 Myrtle Avenue in 2018. This will be MedRite’s sixth location and its first in Brooklyn.
MedRite Urgent Care, 504 Myrtle Avenue

Salon Rhed

A full-service salon, offering services for men and women, including braids, hair replacement, extensions, locs and services for natural hair. Opening in early 2018.
Salon Rhed, 374 Myrtle Avenue

Brazil’s Waxing Center

“Appreciate Every Body.” Brazil’s slogan shows that it prides itself on offering a judgment-free zone where it provides all natural, vegan full-body waxing services for men and women of every shape, size, and color.
Brazil’s Waxing Center, 362 Myrtle Avenue (corner of Adelphi)

Vitality Health & Wellness Bar – NOW OPEN

Opening its doors on January 1, the new health bar is now serving up fresh juices, smoothies shakes, and bowls, starting at just $5. Read more here.
Vitality Health & Wellness Bar, 475B Myrtle Avenue, (718) 489-1588

Pratt Gourmet Deli – NOW OPEN

Opening in late January 2018 at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Emerson Place, the Pratt Gourmet Deli will serve Clinton Hill residents with a fresh, convenient, and affordable deli counter and aisles stocked with your daily needs.
Pratt Gourmet Deli, 551 Myrtle Avenue

Gourmet Market at 81 Fleet

Plans have been filed and work is underway in The Giovanni at 81 Fleet Place for a new grocer and deli to open soon on the ground floor. The deli will be neighbors with other new businesses at 81 Fleet, including Wine Legend, SL Tax Center, and Gold Coast Bank.

Smoothie King

Smoothie King will open its 3rd New York City location in 2018 in Clinton Hill at 504 Myrtle Avenue. The smoothie shop, which began in New Orleans in 1973, now has over 800 locations around the world.
Smoothie King, 504 Myrtle Avenue

Resolution: Be Active in the New Year

New Year’s gives us all a brand new chance to make a first impression…for 2018! There are so many choices for jump-starting your health and fitness resolutions. Be it yoga, martial arts, healthy food, there’s something for everyone, every schedule – right here on Myrtle Ave.

 

SACRED BROOKLYN

This Myrtle Avenue yoga and fitness studio is running a sign-up special for two weeks of unlimited yoga, dance, and fitness for just $20. Bonus: you can use this special offer at both their Fort Greene and Bed-Stuy (197 Clifton Place) locations.

Sacred Brooklyn, 334 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 855-2973

MOVE WITH GRACE

Join now to enjoy 2 weeks of unlimited yoga classes for $45. Finish your workout with a nutritional juice or smoothie –  or maybe a breakfast bowl after the early 7am class. Delivery is also available (for the smoothies, not the yoga).
Move with Grace, 431 Myrtle Ave, (718) 230-0013

BROOKLYN BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU

For both kids and adults, Clinton Hill Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is offering a special sign-up offer that includes three classes for $19.99. Special bonus: free uniform!

Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, 412 Myrtle Ave, (718) 403-0067

Lead Instructor Q at Champion’s Taekwondo, 434 Myrtle Avenue

CHAMPION’S MARTIAL ARTS

Study martial arts, tae kwon do, or kickboxing with Instructor Q at Clinton Hill’s Champion’s Martial Arts and Fitness. For the New Year, there are special sign-up offers available for 1-week, 1-month, and 6-week trial packages starting at only $9.99!

Champion’s, 434 Myrtle Ave, (718) 522-5425

 

Now Open: Vitality Health & Wellness Bar

Just in time for your New Year’s cleanse, a new fresh juice and health bar has opened its doors on Myrtle Avenue in Clinton Hill. Vitality Health and Wellness Bar started serving its full menu of shakes, smoothies, bowls, and juices bright and early on January 1st at 475B Myrtle Avenue.

The business, led by certified personal trainer Adonis Hill, has 60+ healthy concoctions to choose from, all made fresh and starting at just $5.

FREEBIE ALERT: To help you keep warm during these cold, cold days, Vitality is offering free 16 oz. cups of Lavazza coffee for customers.Vitality Health & Wellness Bar, 475B Myrtle Ave, (718) 489-1588

 

Recycle Your Tree at Mulchfest

Don’t kick your holiday tree to the curb. Bring it to Fort Greene Park and give new life as nourishing mulch!

Join NYC Parks, the New York City Department of Sanitation , and GreeNYC  to recycle your Christmas trees into wood chips. These wood chips are used to nourish trees and plants on streets and gardens citywide. Or, take home your very own bag of mulch to use in your backyard or to make a winter bed for a street tree.

For two days in January, NYC Parks will set-up the “chipper” in Fort Greene Park at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park.

Click below for more event details:

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6 – 10:00AM – 2:00PM

SUNDAY, JANUARY 7 – 10:00AM – 2:00PM

Ring in 2018 on Myrtle Avenue

Myrtle the Elf (above) is ready for New Year’s Eve, are you? Below is a full round-up of where to celebrate the big night on Myrtle Avenue with events, dinner reservations, or the best spot to toast at midnight. Have fun everyone!

EVENTS

FIVE SPOT SOUL FOOD
Hosting a New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball, Five Spot will have an all-out party on Dec 31. Doors open at 8pm, the invite says dress to impress, and the $30 ticket gets you both food and champagne. More details here.
Five Spot Soul Food, 459 Myrtle Avenue

SACRED YOGA
Want to skip the crowds and instead replenish on New Year’s Eve? Head to Sacred Brooklyn in Fort Greene for Midnight Yoga. Tickets start at $25 and the event kicks off with instructor Megan Cuzzolio at 10:30pm. More info and tickets available here.
Sacred Brooklyn, 334 Myrtle Avenue

JILL LINDSEY
The shop will be hosting a party in the shop, with the drinks flowing from the bar, and the night ending with a champagne toast at midnight.
Jill Lindsey, 370 Myrtle Avenue

DINNER RESERVATIONS

LARINA
Serving up a special a la carte menu, bubbles, and live music. What more could you want? Make a reservation by emailing larinabrooklyn@gmail.com.
LaRina Pastificio & Vino, 387 Myrtle Avenue

GENTLEMAN FARMER FORT GREENE
Be fine, fancy and French. To make a reservation, call (929) 295-0784.
Gentleman Farmer Fort Greene, 378 Myrtle Avenue

PUTNAM’S PUB & COOKER
With New Year’s Eve on a Sunday, you can start the party really early at Putnam’s with their bottomless brunch. Or you can be sensible and make a reservation for dinner or cozy up to the bar in the evening and enjoy a midnight champagne toast.
Putnam’s Pub & Cooker, 419 Myrtle Avenue

SOCO
To make a reservation at the Southern Fusion destination, call (718) 783-1936 or visit Open Table.
Soco, 509 Myrtle Avenue

HIT THE BARS

CARDIFF GIANT
Head to Cardiff Giant to enjoy a special drink menu – full of specialty bubbles, cocktails, beers, and ciders – all made in New York state. Cheers!
Cardiff Giant, 412 Myrtle Avenue

THE EMERSON
Get cozy in a booth, shoot a game of pool, and ring in 2018 with unpretentious vibes at this favorite local watering hole.
The Emerson Bar, 561 Myrtle Avenue

IMBIBE AT HOME

Enjoying the big night from home? Visit one of Myrtle Avenue’s Wine and Spirits shops to stock up on the bubbly, or any drink of choice.

 

 

 


Eleven years ago, we started a summer youth employment program called the Young Entrepreneur Mentorship Program (YEMP). YEMP has provided first-time job opportunities to over 200 local teens. For over a decade, our program has introduced teens to skill building and new career ideas. Today, YEMP gives teenagers that live or go to school here in Fort Greene & Clinton Hill direct access to mentors (small business owners and local manufacturers) and introduces them to entrepreneurship.

This past year, YEMP expanded with a partnership with the Pratt Center and Pratt Institute’s DICE K-12 Program. Now through this collaboration, students have access to hi-tech classrooms and STEAM careers and they are able to further stretch, test and explore new ideas in a college setting at an early age.

Will you support our program to create jobs for our local youth? No amount is too small.


We need your help to sustain this important paid internship program for teens living here in Fort Greene & Clinton Hill. 

Your gift will help us:

  • Introduce youth ages 14-18 to entrepreneurship;
  • Provide first-time job opportunities for community youth;
  • Give students direct access to small business owners who will serve as their mentors;
  • Provide students exposure to science, technology, engineering and math (STEAM) through a partnership with the Pratt Center and Pratt Institute’s Center for Art, Design, and Community Engagement K-12
  • Create opportunities for youth to work at Myrtle Avenue small businesses, directly in the community where they live and/or attend school.

Much of our work in the community is made possible by contributions from generous neighbors like you, and YEMP is no exception. Will you partner with us to build opportunity for youth right here on Myrtle Avenue?

Please click here to DONATE online.

#ShopMyrtle Holiday Gift Guide

Tis the season for giving. But what to give is always the question. With so many people on your shopping list and so little time, a well-curated gift list is crucial when tackling holiday shopping. We’ve searched high and low on Myrtle Avenue for great one of a kind finds to create the ultimate list for gift buying on Myrtle.

We hope this 2017 Holiday Gift Guide makes it easy for you to shop local, shop small, and shop Myrtle this season.

aBarking Brown products (1)

Barking Brown

468 Myrtle Ave, (718) 638-3757

Barking Brown carries both those one-of-a-kind fashion finds, as well as the staple jeans and a t-shirt. Handbags, lingerie, jewelry, and shoes adorn this trendy shop, including these Restricted brand suede ankle boots, selling for $89.

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Pipsqueak Children’s Shoppe

469 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 636-6044

Find your train! Appealing to the New Yorker in all of us are these official MTA wooden subway cars, selling for $16.99. “Count 1,2,3 on the Subway” is a charming, subway-themed counting book, written by Paul DuBois Jacobs and Jennifer Swender, illustrated by Dan Yaccarino, $14.99

Magna-Tiles are a best-selling, favorite imagination play set. Prices range from $75-$120 for sets of 48 or 100 pieces. The building possibilities are literally endless and appeal to all ages.

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21 Tara

388 Myrtle Avenue, (347) 916-0045

This line of stainless steel kitchenware is made by the father-and-son business owners of “Cashmere” in Northern India. Employing a staff of other artisans in their area, these hand-painted enamel pieces are delightful. Trays, cups, canister sets, colanders, pitchers, and tifins, are priced at $42 and up.

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Jill Lindsey

370 Myrtle Ave, (347) 987-4538

This trio is handmade in Brooklyn by Jill Lindsey herself. Made with 18k gold over brass, and shown here in andalousite, this line is also available in tourmaline or rainbow moonstone. $158-198

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Leisure Life NYC

559 Myrtle Avenue, (347) 725-3167

“LIFE” 100% cotton hooded sweatshirts, with lettering made from vintage satin collegiate Starter Jackets. Perfect as an homage to your alma mater. $140

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Green In Brooklyn

432 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 855-4383

Cognitive Surplus is placing “chemistry within your grasp” with their wine, beer, and spirits glassware. Printed on each glass are the chemical compounds of what’s inside the glass. $16.95 – a small price to pay for the advancement of social chemistry…

awho's your doggy

Who’s Your Doggy

364 Myrtle Avenue (718) 522-5244

This Orbee Tuff treat dispenser doubles as an interactive toy for your dog. Treats rattle around in the uniquely-designed orb until your pup finds just the right angle to get their reward. The Orbee is $22.99 and guaranteed not to rip!

Corkscrew Wines

490 Myrtle Avenue (718) 230-WINE

When heading out to a holiday gathering, impress the host by carting in a four pack of wine in a complimentary Corkscrew wine tote bag. The entire set is just $54.

Sacred Yoga

324 Myrtle Avenue, (718) 855-2973

From thermals to caps, yoga-wear, mats and t-shirts, Sacred Yoga has you covered, literally, for all your yoga apparel needs. $24-65