Noteworthy: Greenpoint, The Transition

Greenpoint The Transition

I have seen these posters hereabouts as well as the East Village. Given I answered “Yes” to most of these questions, naturally I feel compelled to pass it along. Per the web site listed on the above-depicted poster:

Why Greenpoint?

Greenpoint is the northernmost part of the Brooklyn borough of New York City. Before colonization it was covered with forests, orchards, and meadows. In the nineteenth century its character changed from agricultural to industrial. In the twentieth century Greenpoint became very popular among Polish immigrants. It even got the nickname “Little Poland”. In 2010 43,6% of Greenpoint inhabitants were Polish.

But this neighborhood has changed drastically over last several years. It is still transitioning and people are anxious about the direction of the changes and Greenpoint’s future as a Polish neighborhood.

What can be done to preserve its Polish character and at the same time keep it open and friendly to new residents, whatever their ancestry is?

As an organization that realizes urban, educational, and cultural activities we think that these types of activities are the key to keeping the neighborhood attractive to both Poles that seeks a connection to their homeland as well as all New Yorkers interested in a valuable cultural experiences.

Greenpoint. The Transition is an effort to redefine Greenpoint’s “Polishness” in the context of changes that are happening right now in this part of New York City. Instead of thinking about ethnicity we emphasize the cultural and artistic values that it carries. We are convinced that this understanding of “Polishness” can become Greenpoint’s trademark, regardless of any political or economic factors.

Greenpoint. The Transition is realized in cooperation with the Brooklyn Public Library in Greenpoint, Opportunity Music Project, Videology, and Focusing Lab.

The project is co-financed from the funds granted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the competition for the public task “Cooperation with Polish Diaspora and Poles Abroad.”

Those of you who found yourselves saying the same can get more information about this series of events by clicking here. NOTE: Some will be workshops will be conducted in Polish only so it is best to check their detailed program for more information for more information. Seats for all these events (which are totally free) are limited— so get your RSVP on. The deadline is April 30th!

UPDATE, 7:45 pm: I sent an email to the lady listed on this poster, Marta Pawlaczek :

Hi,

I spied one of your posters while knocking around the East Village today (which is kind of funny given I live in Greenpoint— have for 14 years). I gave a very brief shout-out on my site this evening. I made sure to note that some workshops were going to be conducted exclusively in Polish. Would you be kind enough to outline some that are in English so I can pass them along?

On a purely selfish note, my husband and I would love to check a few of these out (he’s interested in the board games— ESPECIALLY the Battle of Grunwald). Speaking for myself, I am of more of an artistic bent— and would LOVE to know of any historical/art workshops I can attend (in English).

And she (despite being in Poland presently) got right back to me!

Hello Heather!

Thank you so much for your interest in the program and sharing the info on your website – it looks great!

If you would like to send out some emails etc, I attached the press release and the detailed program in English and participation form, also pasted the short info in the body of an email, some people just do not like open the attachments.

I would recommend photographic workshops if thats something that does or might interest you, the leader is definately great person and photographer – the plan is to make photos of Greenpoint at the end and create a exhibition, that would be available during block party and at the library.

I can definitely reserve a spot for your husband at the Board Games workshops – and I would recommend it for you as well, if the history of Poland interests you – the board games that would be used are created by The Institute of National Remembrance – so there were a lots of historians working on it, making sure its accurate and fun, and the lady that will lead those has a great knowledge of history, so I know it will be very interesting.

Would you send me the application forms with all the data? You can download them here: http://www.cultureshock.pl/greenpoint-transition-program-en/

I am at this moment in Poland, but I am back in NYC on the 22nd of April, if you would have more questions, feel free to call me or write.

The phone number on posters is OK for now to call too, if people want to sign up – a colleague is picking up them for now – just letting you know that its totally OK to call that number to sign up.

Best regards!

Marta

You can view all the material she forwarded me in jpeg format by clicking here!

From The New York Shitty Inbox: Greenpoint Hand Skills

October 4, 2012 ·
Filed under: 11222, Greenpoint, Greenpoint Brooklyn, Greenpoint Magic 

A lass named Julie writes:

Hi there,

I wanted to share some info about the free craft workshop that my group, Greenpoint Hand Skills, is hosting at the Greenpoint Library this Saturday. We’ll be making bracelets from the colorful wires hidden inside cable wires. The workshop is led by Sarah Goldschadt, local author of the forthcoming book, Craft-A-Day. I thought New York Shitty readers might be into it too! Info is below.

Without further ado, here’s the 411!

Greenpoint Hand Skills Presents: Rewired Bracelets

Hidden inside those old-school printer cables are a plethora of wire in a rainbow of colors. With a craft knife and wire cutter, you can transform the wire into stylish bracelets and wow your friends. Come learn how at this free DIY workshop at the Greenpoint Public Library. There will be free doughnuts and coffee to fuel your making powers too!

Greenpoint Library
107 Norman Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11222
(718) 349-8504
G train to Nassau
Saturday, October 6th, Noon – 2:00 pm
Cost: Free!

Those of you who are intrigued can learn more about Greenpoint Hand Skills by perusing their Facebook page. Check it out!

From The New York Shitty Inbox, Part II: Call For New Members!

October 19, 2011 ·
Filed under: 11222, Greenpoint, Greenpoint Brooklyn, Greenpoint Magic 

This item comes courtesy of the folks at our very own public library! Here’s the 411 per their press release:

CALL FOR NEW MEMBERS

Friends of Greenpoint Library Meeting
Wednesday, November 2, 2011, 7:00pm – 8:00pm
at Greenpoint Branch Public Library
107 Norman Avenue, at Leonard St.
Brooklyn NY

Free!

Friends of Greenpoint Library

Who We Are: Friends of Greenpoint Library began in 2008 as a group of neighborhood volunteers who wanted to create a voice for the local library, and to advocate for literacy in the community. From these humble beginnings, the group started their own branch Friends group and has expanded out to community members and become the most active Friends group in the Brooklyn Public Library system. We are deeply committed to improving the quality of life in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and firmly believe that libraries and literacy are central to the civic life of our neighborhood community.

Event Details: The Friends of Greenpoint Library are looking for new members. We are a volunteer run, library advocacy group, and are active in the neighborhood. Our central goals are to:

Raise their community’s awareness and enthusiasm about the local library

Promote the local library’s resources and programs in the neighborhood

Keep local officials aware of the library’s importance to the communities they represent

Raise funds to enhance neighborhood library service.

Friends do everything from letter writing and making legislative visits to sponsoring library events; from planting gardens to organizing bake, craft and toy sales to musical performances for both children and adults. Just a little of your time can make a big difference for our community!

Those of you who are interested in joining this wonderful effort— or simply want more information— can contact the folks behind this endeavor via email at thefriendsofgreenpointlibrary (at) gmail (dot) com or check out their Facebook page!

Friends of Greenpoint Library Meeting
Wednesday, November 2, 2011; 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
The Greenpoint Public Library
107 Norman Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11222

From The New York Shitty Inbox: Book & Bake Sale

November 9, 2010 ·
Filed under: 11222, Greenpoint, Greenpoint Brooklyn, Greenpoint Magic 

This item comes courtesy of a lady named Ingrid. She writes:

Hi, I was wondering if you’d post Greenpoint Library’s Book/Bake Sale.

This upcoming Saturday, November 13 starting at noon our very own branch of the Brooklyn Public Library will be hosting its annual Book and Bake Sale. The prices are as follows: $1.00 for paperbacks and $2.00 for hardcovers. And of course tasty treats will be in the offing. You can get more information about this event via its Facebook page. Check it out!

Book & Bake Sale
November 13, 2010 12:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Greenpoint Public Library
107 Norman Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11222

NOTE: The library will be accepting donations of gently-used books until closing on Friday.

Miss Heather

Greenpoint Photos Du Jour: Dancing With The Stars

April 30, 2010 ·
Filed under: 11222, Greenpoint, Greenpoint Brooklyn, Greenpoint Magic 

From the Norman Avenue branch of the Brooklyn Public Library.

Miss Heather

TOMORROW: The Greenpoint 100

April 30, 2010 ·
Filed under: 11222, Greenpoint, Greenpoint Brooklyn, Greenpoint Magic 

Before this balmy weekend kicks off I wanted to remind my fellow Garden Spotters that tomorrow, May 1, starting at 11:00 a.m. the Greenpoint branch of the Brooklyn Public Library will be conducting its annual fundraiser, The Greenpoint 100. Not only is this a great way to acquire some very nifty art from local artists, but you’ll also be supporting a great cause: our public library. Check it out!

The Greenpoint 100
May 1, 2010 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Brooklyn Public Library, Norman Avenue Branch
107 Norman Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11222

Miss Heather

From The New York Shitty Inbox: The Greenpoint 100 Is Back!

March 8, 2010 ·
Filed under: 11222, Greenpoint, Greenpoint Brooklyn, Greenpoint Magic 

I know a number of you were interested in this (I know I am) so here’s the 411 per their press release:

Saturday, May 1, 2010

11 AM-2:30 PM

CALL FOR ARTISTS

The Friends of the Greenpoint Library call for works to be donated by artists living or working in Greenpoint.  The works will be sold to benefit the Greenpoint Branch of Brooklyn Public Library. All work will be sold by silent auction. We are accepting works in all mediums (maximum size 11X14 inches). The show will be juried by local gallery owners and prizes will be awarded.

Email contact information and JPEG to: thefriendsofgreenpointlibrary (at) gmail (dot) com

If you are one of the first 100 qualified artists to respond to the call, you will receive a reply with an ID number from 1-100 and the address of where your work must be mailed or delivered.

Accepted artists’ work must be received by Friday, April 30th to be included in the exhibit

Last year this event had just over 80 participants and raised $1,200 for our public library. I say we make it 100% this year and raise even more! I’ve made my submission (I’m #2!), what about you?

Miss Heather

New York Shitty Day Ender: Greenpoint Public Library Bake/Book Sale

October 18, 2009 ·
Filed under: 11222, Greenpoint, Greenpoint Brooklyn, Greenpoint Magic 

BPL

This is a quick reminder that Greenpoint’s very own public library will be having a “Book & Bake Sale” this upcoming Saturday, October 24, starting at 1:00 p.m. A buck for paperbacks and two bucks for hardcovers is hard to beat! What’s more, you’ll be supporting a very worthy cause.

Book & Bake Sale
October 24, 2009 starting at 1:00 p.m.
Greenpoint Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library
107 Norman Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11222

If you have been meaning to donate books (as I have) or baked goods (I’m am doing everyone a favor by refraining) to this cause it’s time to get moving!

Miss Heather

P.S.: Those of you who want to become a friend of the Greenpoint Public Library can get the ball rolling by contacting their Friends Coordinator at (718) 230-2406.

From The New York Shitty Inbox: Greenpoint 100?

September 22, 2009 ·
Filed under: 11222, Greenpoint, Greenpoint Brooklyn, Greenpoint Magic 

Katherine writes:

Hi Miss Heather,

Don’t mean to bother, but I was wondering whether you had heard anything about the Greenpoint 100 (at the GP Public Library) happening again this year. (I got word of it last year through your blog, and scored some fine art.) If so, could you post it on the blog?

In any case, thanks for keeping us all up to date on local happenings!

I have been wondering about this as well. So today I placed a call to the Greenpoint Branch of the New York Public Library. The very nice lady who fielded my inquiry was more than happy to give me the fundraising 411:

  • Yes, there will be another Greenpoint 100. It will be conducted in spring 2010.
  • However, there will be a book sale/bake sale October 24, 2009 and they are accepting donations of books.
  • I asked if local businesses would be welcome to donate baked goods to the aforementioned event and she stated she did not know. However, she is going to look into the matter and get me an answer in the next week or so.

In the meantime any and all who have some books to spare and want to lend our local library a hand can drop them off at:

The New York Public Library, Greenpoint Branch
107 Norman Avenue (at the corner of Leonard Street)
Brooklyn, New York 11222

Miss Heather

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