Thursday, November 29, 2012

December Classes

Freedom to Build, Phase 2: phased 2 build
see http://freedomtobuild.blogspot.com for
class times, locations, and up-to-date info

A hands-on informal study of architecture history focused on the creation, control, and usage of spaces people use + shape in New Orleans and elsewhere... researching, discussing, and building. When + where we meet will change depending on the topics, so check our website for times, info, and locations.
Contact Jackson: jackson.blalock@gmail.com

 
FIX MIX
Monday 12/10, 6 PM
Keller Library @ 4300 S. Broad St.
At FIX MIX we share our skills and repair stuff that might otherwise be tossed. We mend clothes, re-wire lamps, research and repair all sorts of items. Join us in the fight against planned obsolescence at FIX MIX! Bring replacement parts if you think you will need them.
Contact Gretchen: gretchen@nolatimebank.org

All Ages Knitting
Tuesdays 4 PM
Community Book Center @ 2523 Bayou Rd
Come learn to knit. Some materials provided. All ages and abilities welcome! Contact Lena: 267-312-5817

Rope Bite (formerly the Art of Adult Ropes)
Tuesdays 1-4 PM
Marigny area, contact teacher for location

From the ancient Japanese art of Shibari to the present and diverse world today, we will be exploring how we can use rope for love, lust, and a show, the bondage, the power exchange, the art, and the flow. The first 30 minutes of every group session is for new students to learn the basics, as well as for returning students to warm up and review. The class will include field trips to allow for extra learning and real-life exploration. NOLA has some great spots for gorilla/flash tying; let's find them. Practice rope is available, but it is recommended that you bring your own. Come to class to learn about the different types of rope and how to select them.
Contact: Tyrus @ 816-210-4077

 
GED Tutoring
Tuesdays 6-7:30 PM and Thursdays 10-11:30 AM
Resurrection After Exoneration @ 1212 St. Bernard Avenue
The Resurrection After Exoneration Center is offering a free GED tutoring service to all interested students. We meet twice a week and provide individualized programs of study to help prepare students for their High School Equivalency Test. Subjects that will be covered include: Language Arts (reading and writing), Social Studies, Science and Math. Contacting instructor beforehand is encouraged, though walk-ins are always welcome.
Contact Sebastian:
sjindracotilla@handsonneworleans.org

Freestyling Circle
Wednesdays 8 PM
Contact Instructor for Location
Weekly get together for people who love or are interested to learn/practice freestyling and extemporaneous spoken word.  Class members can bring in beats, suggest topics and host discussions.  Less of a class and more of a practice group to create an encouraging community of verbal spontaneity.  Trying to express yourself quickly, rhythmically in your own voice is super challenging and incredibly fun and addictive.  Scary at first - but so liberating.  Hopefully this group can be a supportive space for people to try out this form of expression for the first time and to find other people who just plain need it in their lives.
Contact Wiley: wileyrogers@gmail.com


Intro to Harm Reduction
Fridays 2:30-4:30 PM
LGBT Community Center @ 2114 Decatur St

Harm Reduction is a perspective and a set of practical approaches to reduce the negative consequences of drug use, incorporating a spectrum of strategies from safer use to abstinence. In this course, we will demonstrate some of the principles of Harm Reduction. Drop-ins welcome.
Contact: Nora & Michelle nolaharmreduction@gmail.com or call 504-535-4766


Introduction to Time Banking
Saturday 12/1, 1 PM
Freret Neighborhood Center @ 4605 Freret St.
The NOLA TimeBank is a community system where a person who volunteers one hour of their time helping someone else gains an hour time credit.  They can then use that time credit or their accrued time credits to receive help from someone else. If you are a new member TimeBank or just wondering about how Time Banking works, this workshop is for you. We will discuss the concepts and core values of Time Banking. Then have a hands-on demonstration of your on-line "bank account." Bring a laptop if you have one. If you don't have a laptop you can check one out from Freret Neighborhood Center.
Contact Gretechen: gretchen@nolatimebank.org

Zen Meditation Instruction
Sundays 8:45 AM
Mid-City Zen @ 3156 Toulouse
Every Sunday morning Mid City Zen will offer zazen (sitting meditation) instruction before its usual morning meditation program. Using the touchstones of upright posture and breath awareness, we will acquaint ourselves with the movement of our own minds. Please wear loose comfortable clothing.
Contact: midcityzennola@gmail.com

Punk Rock Takeover
Sundays 2-6 PM
The Big Top @ 1638 Clio St

PUNK ROCK TAKEOVER produces a weekly showcase of diverse local bands from all around the Greater New Orleans area--as well as the occasional national or international act--in order to generate a cross pollination of musicians and fans to help foster a more diverse and balanced music scene. All of our shows will include bands of varying age groups and talent, bands from different subcultural and geographical communities. All of the proceeds from these shows will be funneled into local nonprofit organizations, and the shows will also include speakers, workshops, and skill shares from those organizations whenever possible. One of our main goals with these events is to educate and network people in a variety of ways, so they can take those skills and create their own events or help where needed. Here's what we can teach you: stage-managing, money-taking, sound-running, food-cooking and -serving, flyering/promoting. You can show up on any day you would like to learn/help.
Contact Bryan: flyerstorm@yahoo.com

Building Wooden Picture Frames
Sunday 12/2 AND 12/9, 3pm to 6pm
426 South Clark St.
This'll include making measurements for a specific picture, milling the frame pieces from old scrappy decorative and new pieces of wood, joining the pieces together, cutting glass and installing it. Feel free to contact instructor before class, but not pre-registration is not required.
Contact Paul: 504-617-3656

Operation Holiday
Sundays 7 PM
Occupy the Stage Warehouse @ 2735 C Toulouse St

A series of free classes on crafting things for the holidays, because we all need to stop buying mass-made crap.
Dec 2nd – Simple jewelry-making with beads and charms!
Dec 9th – Candy wreaths / Open workshop day
Dec 16th – Help with last minute crafts/catchup/recap
Let the instructor know you are coming so they can prepare enough materials for all the crafters!
Contact Ilea: ilea@cox.net


NOFSN Organizers Meeting
Tuesdays 6:30 PM
Flora’s @ 2600 Royal St
Come to our weekly organizers meeting! NOFSN always needs motivated people to help us flyer, fund raise, organize events, table at festivals, create promotional materials and help with lots of other fun stuff!

For more information on teaching or taking a class with the
New Orleans Free School Network, please visit our website at http://nolafreeschoolnetwork.blogspot.com. You can also reach us by phone at 504-
484-9418 or by email at nolafreeschoolnetwork@gmail.com

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

November Classes

Freedom to Build, Phase 2: phased 2 build
see http://freedomtobuild.blogspot.com for class times, locations, and up-to-date infoA hands-on informal study of architecture history focused on the creation, control, and usage of spaces people use + shape in New Orleans and elsewhere... researching, discussing, and building. When + where we meet will change depending on the topics, so check our website for times, info, and locations.
Contact Jackson: jackson.blalock@gmail.com

FIX MIX
Monday 11/12, 6 PM
Keller Library @ 4300 S. Broad St
At FIX MIX we share our skills and repair stuff that might otherwise be tossed. We mend clothes, re-wire lamps, research and repair all sorts of items. Join us in the fight against planned obsolescence at FIX MIX! Bring replacement parts if you think you will need them. Contact Gretchen: gretchen@nolatimebank.org

Aboveground Zine Library
Mondays 6PM
Nowe Miasto @ 223 Jane Place
This class will study the Abovegroud Zine Library, a 10 year old zine library that is now closed and missed dearly. We will discuss zines, how to make them, the history of the library and strategies to reopen it. At the end of the class, we will put out a zine about the library together. It is recommended to contact the instructor beforehand.
Contact Robb: abovegroundlibrary@yahoo.com

All Ages Knitting
Tuesdays 4 PM
Community Book Center @ 2523 Bayou Rd
Come learn to knit. Some materials provided. All ages and abilities welcome! Contact Lena: 267-312-5817

Rope Bite
Tuesdays 1-4 PM
Marigny area, contact teacher for location
From the ancient Japanese art of Shibari to the present and diverse world today, we will be exploring how we can use rope for love, lust, and a show, the bondage, the power exchange, the art, and the flow. The first 30 minutes of every group session is for new students to learn the basics, as well as for returning students to warm up and review. The class will include field trips to allow for extra learning and real-life exploration. NOLA has some great spots for gorilla/flash tying; let's find them. Practice rope is available, but it is recommended that you bring your own. Come to class to learn about the different types of rope and how to select them.
Contact: Tyrus @ 816-210-4077

GED Tutoring
Tuesdays 6-7:30 PM and Thursdays 10-11:30 PM
Resurrection After Exoneration @ 1212 St. Bernard AveThe Resurrection After Exoneration Center is offering a free GED tutoring service to all interested students. We meet twice a week and provide individualized programs of study to help prepare students for their High School Equivalency Test. Subjects that will be covered include: Language Arts (reading and writing), Social Studies, Science and Math. Contacting instructor beforehand is encouraged, though walk-ins are always welcome.
Contact Sebastian: sjindracotilla@handsonneworleans.org

Rad Rad Movie Night
Tuesday 11/13 and 11/27, 7:30 PM
2022 N. Robertson St
The radical film series continues with two screenings this month.
11/13: Enemy Of The State: Political corruption, surveillance, invasions of personal privacy, explosions, and famous people. Like the front page of the newspaper but much more interesting, this film keeps it real and reminds us how much the government sucks. Featuring Will Smith and Gene Hackman, directed by Tony Scott.
11/27: Gaslands: Fracking or "hydraulic fracturing" is an oil-drilling technology developed by Haliburton to get the last of the oil from below our already depleted soil. This documentary, directed by Josh Fox, takes a first-hand look at just how bad it is.
Contact: tomtomcontact@gmail.com

Zizek Discussion Group
Wednesdays 7:30-9:30 PM
Loyola University Library, Seminar Room 4, 6363 St. Charles Ave
We will discuss Slavoj Zizek's book "Less Than Nothing: Hegel and the Shadow of Dialectical Materialism" over ten weeks of sessions. The book is about 1000 pages long, so we will discuss 100 pages each week. You may provide your own copy of the book or a .pdf version is available.
Contact John: clark@loyno.edu

Freestyling Circle
Wednesdays 8 PM
Contact Instructor for Location
Weekly get together for people who love or are interested to learn/practice freestyling and extemporaneous spoken word. Class members can bring in beats, suggest topics and host discussions. Less of a class and more of a practice group to create an encouraging community of verbal spontaneity. Trying to express yourself quickly, rhythmically in your own voice is super challenging and incredibly fun and addictive. Scary at first - but so liberating. Hopefully this group can be a supportive space for people to try out this form of expression for the first time and to find other people who just plain need it in their lives.
Contact Wiley: wileyrogers@gmail.com

Intro to Harm Reduction
Fridays 2:30-4:30 PM
LGBT Community Center @ 2114 Decatur St
Harm Reduction is a perspective and a set of practical approaches to reduce the negative consequences of drug use, incorporating a spectrum of strategies from safer use to abstinence. In this course, we will demonstrate some of the principles of Harm Reduction. Drop-ins welcome.
Contact: Nora & Michelle nolaharmreduction@gmail.com or call 504-535-4766

Introduction to Time Banking
Sat. 11/03, 1 PM
Freret Neighborhood Center @ 4605 Freret St
The NOLA TimeBank is a community system where a person who volunteers one hour of their time helping someone else gains an hour time credit. They can then use that time credit or their accrued time credits to receive help from someone else. If you are a new member TimeBank or just wondering about how Time Banking works, this workshop is for you. We will discuss the concepts and core values of Time Banking. Then have a hands-on demonstration of your on-line "bank account." Bring a laptop if you have one. If you don't have a laptop you can check one out from Freret Neighborhood Center.
Contact Gretechen: gretchen@nolatimebank.org

Zen Meditation Instruction
Sundays 8:45 AM
Mid-City Zen @ 3156 Toulouse St
Every Sunday morning Mid City Zen will offer zazen (sitting meditation) instruction before its usual morning meditation program. Using the touchstones of upright posture and breath awareness, we will acquaint ourselves with the movement of our own minds. Please wear loose comfortable clothing.
Contact: midcityzennola@gmail.com

Punk Rock Takeover
Sundays 2-6 PM
The Big Top @ 1638 Clio St
PUNK ROCK TAKEOVER produces a weekly showcase of diverse local bands from all around the Greater New Orleans area--as well as the occasional national or international act--in order to generate a cross pollination of musicians and fans to help foster a more diverse and balanced music scene. All of our shows will include bands of varying age groups and talent, bands from different subcultural and geographical communities. All of the proceeds from these shows will be funneled into local nonprofit organizations, and the shows will also include speakers, workshops, and skillshares from those organizations whenever possible. One of our main goals with these events is to educate and network people in a variety of ways, so they can take those skills and create their own events or help where needed. Here's what we can teach you: stage-managing, money-taking, sound-running, food-cooking and -serving, flyering/promoting. You can show up on any day you would like to learn/help.
Contact Bryan: flyerstorm@yahoo.com

Operation HolidaySundays 7 PM
Occupy the Stage Warehouse @ 2735 C Toulouse St
A series of free classes on crafting things for the holidays, because we all need to stop buying mass-made walmart crap.
Nov 4th – Knitting a simple scarf on straight needles (intro to knitting)
Nov 11th – Knitting simple fingerless gloves on double pointed needles
Nov 18th – Mixed media bamboo tile accessories & pendants
Nov 25th – Faux quilted holiday ornaments
Dec 2nd – Simple jewelry-making with beads and charms!
Dec 9th – Candy wreaths / Open workshop day
Dec 16th – Help with last minute crafts/catchup/recap
Let the instructor know you are coming so they can prepare enough materials for all the crafters!
Contact Ilea: ilea@cox.net

NOFSN Organizers Meeting
Tuesdays 6:30 PM
Flora’s @ 2600 Royal StWant to get involved with the New Orleans Free School Network?
Come to our weekly organizers meeting! NOFSN always needs motivated people to help us flyer, fundraise, organize events, table at festivals, create promotional materials and help with lots of other fun stuff!


For more information on teaching or taking a class with the New Orleans Free School Network, please contact us by phone at 504- 484-9418 or by email at nolafreeschoolnetwork@gmail.com

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Awesome Free Education Opportunity at Delgado!

The Adult Education Program (GED) at Delgado Community College offers free structured classes designed to prepare students for the GED. Our next open registration session is October 26th, 2012 at 9am. Registration will be held at our City Park Campus in Building 2, Room 108. Click here to see map.

Registration will last for approximately 20 minutes, and students will receive information on when to return for entrance testing and class scheduling.

About the Program
The Adult Education Program at Delgado Community College is a non-tuition (free) program that helps prepare students for the GED and a variety of higher education options and career pathways. Our program is open to any adult.
Classes are structured similar to a college course, with sections meeting 2-3 times per week for a total of 6 hours per week. Classes meet during mornings, afternoons, or evenings, and are offered at four different sites throughout the city (City Park, Mid-City, West Bank, Jefferson Parish). The length of the program varies dramatically for each student, and is typically dependent on two primary factors: where a student is when they enter (skill level), and how much effort the student puts forth. The program is always free, and all students are welcome and encouraged to stay in the program as long as needed. We are one of the largest and most successful programs in the city and state, and also have developed a new model that allows students to begin college-level courses while completing the GED program.

Our registration process includes submitting basic information, followed by two placement tests, with classes beginning about a month after a student registers. Our next registration date is October 26th, and the details are as follows:

Registration Details
When: October 26th, 9am (first come-first served;we advise students to arrive by 8am)
Where: City Park, Building 2, Room 108
Duration: 1/2 hour at most; students will receive details on when to return for testing.
After October 26th, there will be another registration date approximately every two months.

Monday, October 1, 2012

October Classes

Check Out All the Awesome Classes We Have This Month!


FIX MIX
Monday 10/15 6-8pm
Keller Library @ 4300 S. Broad St.
At FIX MIX we share our skills and repair stuff that might otherwise
be tossed. We mend clothes, re-wire lamps, research and repair all
sorts of items. Join us in the fight against planned obsolescence at
FIX MIX! Bring replacement parts if you think you will need them.
Contact Gretchen:
gretchen@nolatimebank.org

All Ages Knitting
Tuesdays 4pm
Community Book Center @ 2523 Bayou Rd
Come learn to knit. Some materials provided. All ages and abilities
welcome!
Contact Lena: 267-312-5817


SCIENTS!
Tuesdays 7pm
Tree House @ St. Claude Ave & Press St.
We will discuss a variety of scientific topics, with a different topic
each week. If you are interested in hosting a class, please submit a
"lesson plan" by e-mail or in person.
Contact Ashley:
a.h.blum@gmail.com

NOLA Human Sexuality Working Group
Tuesday, Oct. 9 @ 7 PM, with facilitation meeting to follow at 8 PM
Contact instructor for location
This is a general meeting for folks interested in participating in or
facilitating "Taboo to Empowerment: A Group Exploration into Topics
Around Sexuality," through the New Orleans Free School Network for
this fall, October through December. We will explore topics ranging
from toys and lube to gender and sexual identity!  In the process, we
will explore ways to build community and personal and social
empowerment around sexuality. If you'd like to deepen your knowledge
and share your experiences with these subjects, please join us!  Each
class will be hosted by a group of facilitators selected by the group.
Contact:
nolahumansexuality@gmail.com, 504.410.7238.

Rope Bite (formerly the Art of Adult Ropes)
Tuesday 10/2, 10/16, and 10/23 1-4pm and Monday 10/8 7:00pm
Marigny area, contact teacher for location
From the ancient Japanese art of Shibari to the present and diverse
world today, we will be exploring how we can use rope for love, lust,
and a show, the bondage, the power exchange, the art, and the flow.
The first 30 minutes of every group session is for new students to
learn the basics, as well as for returning students to warm up and
review. The class will include field trips to allow for extra learning
and real-life exploration. NOLA has some great spots for gorilla/flash
tying; let's find them. Practice rope is available, but it is recommended
that you bring your own. Come to class to learn about the
different types of rope and how to select them.
Contact: Tyrus @ 816-210-4077


Zizek Discussion Group
Wednesdays 7:30-9:30pm
Loyola University Library, Seminar Room 4 @ 6363 St. Charles Ave.
We will discuss Slavoj Zizek's book "Less Than Nothing: Hegel and the
Shadow of Dialectical Materialism" over ten weeks of sessions. The
book is about 1000 pages long, so we will discuss 100 pages each week.
You may provide your own copy of the book or a .pdf version is
available.
Contact John:
clark@loyno.edu

Freedom to Build
Wednesdays 6-8pm
Sycamore House @ 3111 Palmyra (@ Lopez)
A reading/discussion/research group analyzing the power dynamics
within the built environment, focusing on the creation, control, and
usage of spaces through the past and present.  An informal
architectural history of sorts, concerned with case studies and theory
of alternative approaches to shaping spaces people use. Topics may
include, but are not limited to: housing policy, the vernacular,
abandonment, the “green” movement, industrialized building methods,
construction techniques, reconstruction scenarios, public spaces,
population shifts/urban renewal, land trusts, professional critiques,
troglodytes, and real-world application of ideas. This will be fairly
free form, so if you have topics, readings, or films to suggest, feel
free to email.  You are not required to contact teacher beforehand,
but it will help for printing purposes.Readings for upcoming classes
are posted at freedomtobuild.blogspot.com
Contact Jackson:
jackson.blalock@gmail.com

Introduction to Time Banking
Sat. 10/06/2012 - 1-2:30pm
Freret Neighborhood Center @ 4605 Freret St.
If you are a new member TimeBank or just wondering about how Time
Banking works, this workshop is for you. We will discuss the concepts
and core values of Time Banking. Then have a hands-on demonstration of
your on-line "bank account." Bring a laptop if you have one. If you
don't have a laptop you can check one out from FNC.
Contact Gretechen:
gretchen@nolatimebank.org

Zen Meditation Instruction
Sundays 8:45 am
Mid-City Zen @ 3156 Toulouse
Every Sunday morning Mid City Zen will offer zazen (sitting
meditation) instruction before its usual morning meditation program.
Using the touchstones of upright posture and breath awareness, we will
acquaint ourselves with the movement of our own minds. Please wear
loose comfortable clothing.
Contact:
midcityzennola@gmail.com

Punkrock Takeover
Sundays 2-6pm
The Big Top @ 1638 Clio St
PUNKROCK TAKEOVER produces a weekly showcase of diverse local bands
from all around the Greater New Orleans area--as well as the
occasional national or international act--in order to generate a cross
pollination of musicians and fans to help foster a more diverse and
balanced music scene. All of our shows will include bands of varying
age groups and talent, bands from different subcultural and
geographical communities. All of the proceeds from these shows will be
funneled into local nonprofit organizations, and the shows will also
include speakers, workshops, and skillshares from those organizations
whenever possible. One of our main goals with these events is to
educate and network people in a variety of ways, so they can take
those skills and create their own events or help where needed. Here's
what we can teach you: stage-managing, money-taking, sound-running,
food-cooking and -serving, flyering/promoting. You can show up on any
day you would like to learn/help.
Contact Bryan:
flyerstorm@yahoo.com

Ladies' Night
Sundays 1pm
Fair Grinds Coffee House (upstairs) @ 3133 Ponce de Leon
Ladies Night is back and closing in on a new series!  Starting August
12, we'll be book clubbing bell hooks' "All About Love: New Visions".
On that Sunday, we'll pass out books and come up with a readings
schedule which folks will be able to find at noboyfriends.org/ladiesnight504. 
Always & forever, we are a BYOB, kid-friendly, no-boys-allowed potluck &
radical feminist discussion group.
Contact:
ladiesnight@noboyfriends.org.

Aboveground Zine Library
Monday 10/29 6-8pm
Nowe Miasto @ 223 Jane Place
This class will study the Abovegroud Zine Library, a 10 year old zine
library that is now closed and missed dearly. We will discuss zines,
how to make them, the history of the library and strategies to reopen
it. At the end of the class, we will put out a zine about the library
together. It is recommended to contact the instructor beforehand.
Contact Rob:
abovegroundlibrary@yahoo.com

Intro to Harm Reduction
Fridays 2:30 pm
In front of LGBT Center @ 2114 Decatur
Harm Reduction is a perspective and a set of practical approaches to
reduce the negative consequences of drug use, incorporating a spectrum
of strategies from safer use to abstinence. In this course, we will
demonstrate some of the principles of Harm Reduction. Drop-ins welcome.
Contact Nora & Michelle:
nolaharmreduction@gmail.com

Monday, September 24, 2012

A message from the Crescent City Childcare Collective:

Hey, y'all!

We're currently regrouping after a summer retreat and are pleased to announce our first General Volunteer Meeting of the fall!  Whee!

Been there, done that?  We have new stuff for you!  Uncomfortable around kids but, wanna give it a try?  This meeting is intended for experienced volunteers as well as newbies.  What we have on the agenda:

  • Brand new Childcare Share!
  • A review of volunteer guidelines
  • Partner organization updates
  • Resources and snacks
  • Upcoming events & trainings
It's happening this Saturday, Sept. 29 at 12:30 pm, upstairs at Fairgrinds Coffee in MidCity.  Male-identifying and Spanish-speaking folks are extra encouraged to join us.  Please help us spread the word as we try to build our volunteer base back up.

For more info, check out our blog ccccollective.wordpress.com, join our Facebook group http://www.facebook.com/groups/134837919920099/?ref=ts, or send us an email at ccccollective@gmail.com.

Thanks!

Friday, September 21, 2012

Coming up this week...

The NOLA Human Sexuality working group is hosting a general meeting for folks interested in participating in or facilitating "Taboo to Empowerment: A Group Exploration into Topics Around Sexuality," through the New Orleans Free School Network for this fall, October through December.

We will explore topics ranging from toys and lube to gender and sexual identity!  In the process, we will explore ways to build community and personal and social empowerment around sexuality. If you'd like to deepen your knowledge and share your experiences with these subjects, please join us!  Each class will be hosted by a group of facilitators selected by the group. 

Two general meeting dates are available for all interested participants:

Sept. 25 @ 3 PM
Oct. 9 @ 7 PM, with facilitation meeting to follow at 8 PM

For locations or more information, send an email to nolahumansexuality@gmail.com, or give us a call: 504.410.7238.

Friday, September 14, 2012

Tomorrow: Potluck in the Park and Class Proposals Due!

NOFSN POTLUCK IN THE PARK

Come join us for a potluck in Washington Square Park this Saturday (9/15) and 1 p.m.! We'll be discussing the fall class schedule, upcoming workshops and our homecoming fundraiser. If you want to be a part of the free school, if you already are, or if you just want to share food with friends in the park, we'd love to see you there. Bring your good ideas and a dish to share!


Got a good idea for a free school class?

TEACH IT! October class proposals are due this SATURDAY SEPT. 15 ! You can submit your proposal online, drop them in the dropbox at the Iron Rail Bookstore on Barracks St. or bring them to the potluck. Contact the free school ASAP if you need help securing a location, or developing a curriculum for your class.

Monday, August 27, 2012

WELCOME TO FALL!

The September calendar is here! Check out our new classes...
*SCIENTS! A science discussion group*
*Human Trafficking 101*
*Zizek Discussion Group*
*Intro to Harm Reduction...it's back!*
(See calendar/current classes page for more details)

...as well as our continuing classes....
*Freedom to Build, Zen Meditation Instruction, Rope Bite, Punk Rock Takeover, and Ladies' Night*

On Friday 8/31, NOLA Trystereo Distro presents Opiate Overdose Response Training. It's at the LGBT Community Center (2114 Decatur St) from 2:30-4:30pm. Learn ways to prevent overdose and how to save lives. Receive a FREE overdose response kit and safer injecting supplies. Call (504)535-4766 for more information.

This Wednesday's Solidarity Economy class will be postponed due to the closing of Loyola's campus.

Please be safe and take care of yourself and others during this week's storm.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

THIS WEEKEND IS REALLY EXCITING Y'ALL!!!!

  • On Saturday 8/18 from 10-11:30am, the first meetup of Get Me Bodied will take place in City Park (contact teacher for details)! GET ME BODIED is a group formed to encourage fitness and feelin' good through exercise that is accessible and fun. We’re queering fitness by making our werkouts ™ safe and encouraging for all bodies and genders, by talking about how to live better and healthier in a city not so much known for body wellness, and by engaging one another in informal, supportive, and fun thangs that get you moving! If you're interested in participating as an instructor or class member, send a message to maggie.calmes@gmail.com. Also check us out on facebook: "Get Me Bodied/safe space queer fit"

  • On Sunday 8/19noladiy.org's Punk Rock Takeover will be benefitting the New Orleans Free School Network! Come to The Big Top at 1638 Clio St from 3 (sharp)-6pm to hear Sweet Street Symphony, Saint Bell, and Pancake. Your $5 or $3 if you bring a book donation for Iron Rail or Books 2 Prisoners or a food donation (vegan non-perishables, please) will benefit NOFSN and help us print and mail calendars and buy supplies for our teachers! Come support us!


Sunday, August 12, 2012

A few announcements....

*Ladies' Night is back! Sundays at 1:00pm upstairs at Fair Grinds Coffee House (3133 Ponce de Leon). We'll be doing a new book club series, beginning with bell hooks' "All About Love: New Visions". You can find the reading schedule at noboyfriends.org/ladiesnight504.

*The ASL class (formerly held on Sundays from 11am-12pm) will not be occurring until further notice, so check back with us!

Don't forget to propose your class for the September calendar by Wednesday August 15th! As always, feel free to contact us with any questions or if you need any guidance or assistance organizing your class. 


Monday, July 30, 2012


HEY YOU!

If you want to learn about stage-managing, money-taking, sound-running, food-cooking and serving, and flyering/promoting, check out noladiy.org's PUNKROCK TAKEOVER every Sunday from 2-6pm at The Big Top (1638 Clio St).

PUNKROCK TAKEOVER produces a weekly showcase of diverse local bands from all around the Greater New Orleans area--as well as the occasional national or international act--in order to generate a cross pollination of musicians and fans to help foster a more diverse and balanced music scene. All of our shows will include bands of varying age groups and talent, bands from different subcultural and geographical communities.

All of the proceeds from these shows will be funneled into local nonprofit organizations, and the shows will also include speakers, workshops, and skillshares from those organizations whenever possible. One of our main goals with these events is to educate and network people in a variety of ways, so they can take those skills and create their own events or help where needed.

You can show up on any day you would like to learn/help, or you can contact Bryan at flyerstorm@yahoo.com beforehand.

*On August 19th, the proceeds from the Punkrock Takeover will go to the New Orleans Free School Network!*

Thursday, July 26, 2012

ATTENTION!
We are SOOOOOO sorry, but the phone number listed on our Contact page, as well as our calendars and other literature is INCORRECT! There was a slight typo, and the 
CORRECT phone number is: 
(504)484-9418  
Sorry for any inconvenience.... 

Sunday, July 22, 2012


THIS WEEK'S "SOLIDARITY ECONOMY" TOPIC and LOCATION CHANGE:

A showing of the film “Garbage Warrior,” followed by a discussion.  For thirty years, visionary architect Michael Reynolds and his disciples have advanced the art of "Earthship Biotecture," building self-sufficient, off-the-grid communities. Against major obstacles, Reynolds has fought to make into a reality a home that heats itself, provides its own water, grows its own food,  needs no expensive technology,  recycles its own waste, has its own power source, and  can be built anywhere, by anyone, out of the things society throws away. Shot over three years in the USA, India and Mexico, Garbage Warrior is a feature-length documentary film telling this epic story. 

This class will now take place in Multimedia Room 1 on the 1st floor of the Monroe Library at Loyola University (6363 St. Charles Ave).


And check out these upcoming events at Ashé Cultural Arts Center (1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.):

*Film Screening:  Red + Black = Maroon II & Art Exhibit
Saturday 7/21 at 6:00 p.m.
"Quilombolas de Maranhao, Brazil & Maroons of Louisiana, USA"
This exhibit represents the beginning of an academic, educational, performative, artistic and celebratory cultural exchange between Brazil and the United States, between the State of Louisiana and the State of Maranhao, and connecting the "Maroons" / Black Indians of the Americas across continents and oceans. Programming for the Exhibit will include screenings of a documentary series in progress, ethno-historical lectures, panels, as well as workshops and a multi-media Jazz performance.

*Food Truck Coalition Symposium & Rally - "Let the Food Trucks Roll"
Tuesday 7/24 from 6:00-9:00pm
This symposium is designed to promote awareness and to educate audiences around mobile vending in New Orleans.  The primary purpose of the event is to educate people about the current state of laws governing mobile food vendors, which vendors find out-dated, overly restrictive, and unfair to low-capital enterprises, in favor of large established businesses. Food trucks will serve dinner after the symposium. 

*Workplace Wellness Luncheon
Thursday 7/26 from 12-1:30pm
Presenters Melody M. Robinson, MPH; and Nedra Wardsworth, Community Health Advisor, address this month's topic: the Circle Of Friends For Education and Early-detection (COFFEE) program is a multicultural, community-based initiative dedicated to educating women in the Greater New Orleans area about breast and cervical cancer, identifying resources to access quality health care and providing support to improve their quality of life.
Please RSVP to (504) 569-9070 to reserve your seat.

*Film Screening: "The Camouflaged Truth"
Friday 7/27 from 6-8:30pm
A short discussion will follow the screening of this documentary about Mckinley "Mac" Phipps, Jr., the Louisiana hip-hop artist many believe to be wrongly convicted of murder.

*Urban Bush Women Wealth: Reclaiming and Reframing - A Festival of Art, Place, and Ideas
Saturday 7/28 from 12:30-4:00pm
The internationally renowned dance company, Urban Bush Women, hosts a free festival in New Orleans.
Urban Bush Women's mission is to create dance and to create community by bringing the untold and under-told histories and stories of disenfranchised people to light through dance.   

Monday, July 16, 2012

We want to highlight a few educational events happening this month:

*On Wednesday 7/18, the NOLA Time Bank will be having a presentation from 5:30-7:00pm at the Alvar Library (913 Alvar)Time Banking is a concept where an entire city can request and receive services without any money being exchanged. This presentation will be an opportunity to see a hands-on demonstration of the Time Bank software and to learn why you should get involved. Go to www.nolatimebank.org or contact (504)596-2667 for more information. 


*On Thursday 7/19, the Green Project will be hosting a screening of "Food, Inc."the ground-breaking documentary exposing the dark underbelly of industrial farm system. This will take place at 7:00pm (doors at 6:30) at the Green Project (2831 Marais St), followed by a discussion.


*On Friday 7/20 at the regularly scheduled Philosophy Cafe at 7:30pm at 1412 Euterpe St., there will be a special presentation by Jerry (JD) and Mark Meunier on the issue of same sex marriage and the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). Contact: neworleanslyceum2@gmail.com.


*On Thursday 7/26 at 7:00pm, the New Orleans Lyceum will be hosting "Why Men's Groups Matter", an open panel discussion of why it is important for a man to be connected to a community of other men. This event will take place at Parker United Methodist Church (1130 Nashville Ave)Contact New Orleans Lyceum: neworleanslyceum2@gmail.com.


*On Friday 7/27 at the Nix Library (1401 S. Carrollton) at 6:00pmGreg Osborn of the Louisiana Division of the New Orleans Public Library will give a lecture on the The Free People of Color. Light refreshments will be served. Contact: (504) 596-2630 for more information.

Thursday, July 12, 2012

We are so sorry for the confusion, but our weekly organizational meetings will now be taking place on Thursdays for 6:30pm at Flora's Coffee House (2600 Royal St @ Franklin in the Marigny). Hopefully this will be the last change for a while. Please join us!


And don't forget class proposals for the August calendar are due this Sunday 7/15!

Saturday, July 7, 2012


TOMORROW!!!
Film: "The Dark Side of Chocolate"
Sunday 7/8 @ 6:00pm
Cafe Istanbul @ 2372 St. Claude Ave (inside New Orleans Healing Center)
This documentary investigates how human trafficking and child labor in the Ivory coast fuels the worldwide chocolate industry. Discussion to follow on labor trafficking in Louisiana and how to help victims on a systemic level. FREE Fair Trade Chocolate Tasting! www.greenamerica.org/programs/fairtrade/MovieScreening.cfm

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

ATTENTION: CHANGES TO PAPER CALENDAR
"Intro to Harm Reduction" on Fridays and "Anatomy and Massage Technique Skillshare" on Thursdays are both on hiatus until further notice, even though they appear on the paper calendar.

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

NOFSN Field Day....come play!
We will be hosting a Field Day this Saturday 6/30 at 4:00pm in Washington Square Park in the Marigny. This will be a mix-and-mingle for anyone who is interested in learning what the Free School Network is all about and meeting the co-organizers. This is also a day to bring the kids out! We will be having fun, kid-friendly games and activities, as well as food...and it's all free! Check out the flyer and join us on Saturday!


Also on Saturday from 2-3:30 there will be a TEEN POETRY WORKSHOP at the Main Library Auditorium. This 90-minute workshop presented by Asia Rainey of WordPlay is designed to develop inspiration and expression. It will also help teens prepare for the 2012 Teen Poetry Writing Contest. See rules and regulations for details. There will be another workshop on Saturday 7/7 from 2-3:30 at the Robert E. Smith Branch.

Monday, June 25, 2012

WELCOME TO SUMMER....THE JULY CALENDAR IS HERE!

Our new class this month is American Sign Language! Also check out our continuing classes: Freedom to Build, Men & Feminism, The Solidarity Economy, Zen Meditation, The Art of Adult Ropes, Anatomy & Massage Technique Skillshare, Intro to Harm Reduction, Ladies' Night, and Rad Rad Movie Night. (Note: Some classes have changed times/dates/locations, so check the calendar for details.)

Also newly added are: Monthly Herb Walk with Maypop Herbalists, Vegan and Healthy Eating Class, and Awakening to Man's Possibilities....

**ANNOUNCEMENTS**

*The Community Printshop has a new home @ 1201 Mazant Street, but it needs some work!!! They will be moved out of the Elysian Fields location on July 1st and have started working on the new space, but open shop will be closed until the space is ready. So help them out if you can! Contact kiernan.duffy@gmail.com for details or check out their website

*The NOFSN weekly organizational meetings will take place on Wednesdays at 6:30pm at Flora's Coffee Shop @ 2600 Royal Street. Anyone and everyone is welcome to join us.


Tuesday, June 19, 2012

*The Art of Adult Ropes will be cancelled today, but will resume next week on Tuesday 6/26 at 1:00pm.


*This month's Solidarity Economy class on Wednesday 6/27 at 7pm in Seminar Room 4 on the 2nd floor of the Monroe Library at Loyola University (6363 St. Charles):

Don Paul, who was Director of Operations for Common Ground Relief, will discuss Common Ground’s efforts to initiate cooperative projects, and others will report on other aspects of New Orleans’ history of mutual aid and cooperation. The main topic of discussion will be the possibilities in New Orleans today to create a solidarity economy with cooperative production, cooperative consumption, and cooperative living, and the concrete steps that can be taken to realize this goal. For further information, please contact clark@loyno.edu

Saturday, June 16, 2012

We are in transition to find a permanent day/time/location for our weekly organizational meetings.  This week, the meeting will take place at Flora's coffee shop (2600 Royal St) on Wednesday 6/20 at 6:30pm, but this may change next week, so  so if you are interested in attending, please e-mail us at nolafreeschoolnetwork@gmail.com or call (504)484-9814 to find out details for upcoming meetings. As always, anyone and everyone is encouraged to attend our meetings and be involved in the Free School's organizational process.

Friday, June 15, 2012


Check this out tomorrow......!
Nicky Da B! Crafting Rhymes and Working in the Music Industry: A Workshop for Teens
Saturday 6/16 from 2-4pm
NOPL Main Library @ 219 Loyola Ave, 3rd floor Auditorium
Nicky Da B is of the next generation of Bounce Rappers, 10 years younger than Big Freedia and Katey Red. His style is a little smoother and his delivery is very unique...something like the abstract vocal sounds of Jamaican Dancehall combined with the tried and true, call and response, party style of NoLa Bounce. He uses his voice naturally (and unnaturally!) to create the chopped vocal sound that many other rappers do via the producers' magic fingers. He will be talking to teens about crafting rhymes and working in the music industry. For more information, call (504)596-2565.

Also, just a shout out to those of you who have been attending the Anatomy and Massage Technique Skillshare....in case you haven't noticed, for the past 2 weeks the group has been graced with the presence of acro-yogi/massage therapist/walking encyclopedia Mr. Joe Stein, LMT. He has been facilitating the class with the topics of self-massage, yoga, functional fitness, fascial health, nutrition, stress, rest, and more! He will continue to facilitate the group's next 2 sessions in June (Thursday 6/21 & 6/28). Dress in clothing you can move in, and, if possible, bring a yoga mat, yoga blocks, and a basketball/volleyball/soccer ball to 1265 Esplanade at 7:30pm.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

TONIGHT!!!
Introduction to Abolition Workshop
Resurrection After Exoneration (RAE) @ 1212 St. Bernard Ave.
5:30pm-8:00pm

Hosted by Critical Resistance. Series of community education sessions on June 11th & 13th that have been used by our members and allies throughout the US (as well as in other parts of the world). Using small and large group discussions, brainstorming, role-playing, visioning, and other hands-on activities we will work together to understand what the PIC is --its history, impacts, and trajectory---and tackle the ideas, strategies, and tough questions and answers that make up Abolitionist politics. 

Food will be available at 5:30 pm and we will begin to gather then, and we'll be starting the workshops promptly at 6 pm. Each session is 2 hours, and are meant to work together—but if you can only come to one, please do! You don’t need to bring anything other your creativity and thoughtfulness! Childcare will also be provided. Please contact us with any questions or concerns via email or call 504-304-3784.

Sunday, June 10, 2012

*SOME CLASS UPDATES*
- "Talking About Talking" will now take place at the MidCity Zen Center @ 3156 Toulouse St, Mondays from 6-8pm.

- "Rad Rad Movie Night" will now take place at the Mudlark Public Theatre @ 1200 Port St, Tuesdays at 8pm, with the exception of this Tuesday June 12th, when there will not be a movie shown.

*NEWLY ADDED CLASSES*
- Foundation for Louisiana's "Citizen's Guide to Land Use and Urban Design", a training designed to help residents gain knowledge in land use planning and urban design concepts, learn how to participate effectively in the planning process, and equip them to be leaders in their communities, will take place on Saturday 6/23 from 10am-1:30pm at NOPL Norman Mayer Branch (3001 Gentilly Blvd). RSVP to citizensguide@foundationforlouisiana.org or call (225)772-1510 or (504)309-0468 by Thursday 6/21.

- New Orleans Loving Festival: "The Loving Story", a documentary about Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple who fell in love and married at a critical time in American history, will be screened followed by a discussion on Tuesday 6/12 at 6:30pm at the Ashe Cultural Arts Center (1712 OC Haley Blvd).

- "Black Folks Don't", a documentary web series exploring the grey areas between stereotype and truth and questioning the notion of normative behavior amongst black folks, will be screened followed by a discussion on Tuesday 6/26 at 6:30 pm at the Ashe Cultural Arts Center (1712 OC Haley Blvd).

DON'T FORGET CLASS PROPOSALS FOR THE JULY CALENDAR ARE DUE FRIDAY 6/15!!

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Our monthly Free School potluck will take place this Saturday, 6/9 at 1:00pm at the foot bridge on Bayou St. John (near Cabrini High School). Rain location is 1235 St. Denis. Come have a lunchtime picnic with us and talk about the Free School! Find out more about who we are, discuss issues surrounding free education and empowerment in our community, and get inspired to take and teach classes! All are welcome.

TONIGHT!
Film Screening: "Shell Shocked"
Tuesday 6/5 at 6:30pm
Contemporary Arts Center @ 900 Camp Street
You're invited to attend a Rough Cut Sneak Preview of "Shell Shocked", a documentary about growing up in the Murder Capital of America. A discussion will follow. Although this FREE screening is not a fundraiser, donations are welcome to help complete the film. This screening is co-presented by the CAC and Ashe Cultural Arts Center. Please RSVP to scrubbrush@scrubbrushproductions.com




THURSDAY!
Eljiah Burgher: Notes on the Application of Magick to Visual Art
Thursday 6/7 at 7:00pm
Contemporary Arts Center, Freeport McMoRan Theatre @ 900 Camp Street
Elijah Burgher is a Chicago-based artist whose work heavily incorporates the use of ritual and sigil magick into his practice. Often his work deals with queer identity and desire. For "Notes on the Application of Magick to Visual Art", Burgher will discuss the history of magick as it is related to the arts, citing examples such as Brion Gysin and William Burroughs' use of cut-ups to discover occult meaning. This free lecture is hosted by the CAC in conjunction with Press Street's Antenna Gallery as part of the show "Spaces." Contact: CAC Visual Arts Department @ (504)528-3805 or visualarts@cacno.org



Thursday, May 31, 2012

THE JUNE CALENDAR IS HERE!
Look for it in various places around town and in YOUR MAILBOX! If you don't know what we're talking about, then send us your address and we will send you calendars!

Check out our sweet new classes:
Razing and Raising
Talking About Talking: A Communicators' Discussion and Practice Group
Freedom to Build

As well as our continuing classes:
Men & Feminism, Deleuze Study Group, Zen Meditation Instruction, The Solidarity Economy, The Art of Adult Ropes, Anatomy & Massage Technique Skillshare, Intro to Harm Reduction, Ladies Night, and Rad Rad Movie Night
____________________________________________________________________
We are changing our meeting location. NOFSN meetings will take place on Thursdays at 11:00am at Cafe Treme (1501 St. Philip @ Villere). As always, anyone and everyone is welcome to join us for our weekly organizational meetings!

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Rad Rad Movie Night will now happen on TUESDAYS at 8:00 PM at the Tree House (St. Claude & Press).

Sunday, May 27, 2012

As many of you may know, we are rethinking our flyering strategy. Instead of distributing monthly calendars around town, we will be mailing them directly to your door! We will include several calendars in each envelope so that you can share or distribute them if you feel like it. If you would like to receive mail the old-fashioned way, e-mail us (nolafreeschoolnetwork@gmail.com) with your mailing address and we will put something in your mailbox! Remember those things?


The Freret Neighborhood Center's Resource Center is currently seeking volunteers to teach computer skills, usually one-on-one, in our computer lab. Volunteers sign up for a weekly 2-hour shift during our open hours on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday, between 10 am and 2 pm. Curriculum and materials are provided. Computer students range from novices to mid-level users. We are happy to be references for you and provide any additional support you need. If you are interested, emailleahvarsano@nhsnola.org, or call Leah at (504) 373-6403. If you'd like to share this opportunity with others, you can share our craigslist ad which is available at this link:  http://neworleans.craigslist.org/vol/3021389046.html 

Thursday, May 24, 2012

"The Solidarity Economy" class has a schedule change! Instead of meeting every other Wednesday, the class will now meet on the last Wednesday of every month. The summer class dates are: May 30th, June 27th, July 25th, and August 29th. Still at 7:00pm, still in Seminar Room 4 on the 2nd floor of the Monroe Library at Loyola University (6363 St. Charles Ave).

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

The Deleuze Study Group has been moved from Wednesdays at 7pm to Thursdays at 7pm at the same location (2217 N. Villere).

Monday, May 21, 2012

THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO MADE THIS WEEKEND'S FUNDRAISER THE 
BEST PROM EVER!!!!
We had so much fun and, thanks to you, made some much needed funds so we can help provide material resources to Free School teachers. Thanks to everyone who donated goods/service to our raffles, DJ Heatwave, DJ Grayscale, and SS Boombox for the sweet tunes, New Orleans Community Kitchen for the grub, and Nowe Miasto for the perfect post-apocalyptic space. Y'all rule!!

A few just-added educational opportunities:

*On Thursday 5/24 from 3:30-5:30 at the Mudlark Public Theatre (1200 Port St), the NOLA Human Sexuality Working Group presents "Demystifying Abortion", a  workshop facilitated by a former feminist health clinic worker and a reproductive rights community organizer to provide a brief explanation of reproductive and sexual anatomy, what an abortion (as performed by a medical practitioner) is, and some of what you may expect when you discuss or encounter abortion procedures in the United States. (Thanks to all allies, but this presentation will be for female bodied folks, including any interested F2M and intersex folks.)
Later that day at 6:00pm at the Cabrini Footbridge on Bayou St. John,there will be a planning potluck called "From Taboo to Empowerment" to discuss human sexuality and the future of the NOLA Human Sexuality Working Group.

*On Saturday 5/26 at 3:00pm at the NOPL Robert E. Smith Branch (6301 Canal Blvd)Casey Stuart, Vice-President for Education and Outreach for Save Our Cemeteries, will give a lecture and power point presentation entitled “The History and Current Status of the Historic New Orleans Cemeteries".