Tag: State Representative James Clay

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AIDS Testing at Rep. Clay’s Office

By State Rep. James Clay Jr.

We have the power to put a stop to the AIDS epidemic

While there are many serious issues facing our community, none are overlooked as consistently as the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

According to a report by the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, there are currently 1.1 million people living with HIV/AIDS in the United States, and 506,000 of those individuals are African-American. While this disproportional impact can be attributed to many reasons, a solution to this problem will only be possible once our community accepts the necessity of regular testing and frank conversation.

The tragic situations caused by this epidemic are a result of being, as a society, unaware of the dangers of the disease and unprepared to truly battle it. The only way we will ever defeat this disease is by getting education, getting tested, and making a commitment to fight HIV/AIDS.

Testing is quick, painless and confidential. It can give you and your loved ones peace of mind or the knowledge needed to make important decisions.

In an effort to make getting tested more convenient, my office has successfully hosted two free AIDS awareness testing days. The neighborhood responses to these events have been overwhelming, which is why I have decided to expand this effort.

Join my staff and me from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on either Friday, Nov. 14 or Friday, Nov. 21 at my district office, 4915 Frankford Ave., to get tested and learn more about this important issue.

Remember: Complacency has been the enemy in our battle against AIDS, but awareness of the problem is our No. 1 ally. I hope to see you at my upcoming events.

 

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49 Acres of Land on the Friends Hospital Property Secured for Public Use

State Rep. James Clay Jr., D-Phila., today said the Commonwealth Financing Authority has awarded a $150,000 grant to Natural Lands Trust Inc.

Clay said the funding will be used to purchase 49-acres of streamside lands on the Friends Hospital Property, which is currently owned by the Thomas Scattergood Behavioral Health Foundation. The land will help protect a newly installed public trail, conserve the wooded valley adjacent to Philadelphia’s Tacony Creek Park. Clay said the acquisition will also ensure public access to the property.

“I am grateful that the CFA has recognized the importance of this project to the people of Northeast Philadelphia,” Clay said. “This funding will go a long way in helping conservation efforts in this part of the city, and increase the quality of life for those in the community.”

The grants were awarded by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, an independent state agency that evaluates and administers funding for projects that create jobs and invest in the state’s financial growth. To find out more about CFA programs, visit www.newpa.com.

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Overington Park’s Big Weekend!

What a great weekend in Overington Park! Friday night October 17th we had 70 people show up in our park to watch the LEGO Movie, sponsored by our State Rep. James Clay and the Friends Of Overington Park. We gave out popcorn and chips, and watched the film. Every bench was filled and blankets were overflowing with families having a good time in their neighborhood. This was our rain date for our summer movie that was washed out. The weather was on our side this weekend. With a little chill in the air, we came together and enjoyed a good evening of fun and fellowship.overington park

Saturday October 18th we held our annual Fall Festival from 12 to 3pm. We gave away 125 pumpkins in our pumpkin patch, to any child that could find their little orange treasure, under the straw. Soft pretzels, and popcorn kept everyone full while they played the games developed by our own SMA (seasonal maintenance assistant).

We had a cardboard castle for the little ones to play in, and picture taking through the rose windows. Parents were grateful for something fun and free in their neighborhood for their families to enjoy, and we, the Friends of Overington Park (FOOP) were pleased to have so many good people attend our event.Special thanks to the Frankford High School’s JR ROTC.  We would be lost without them!

There was a art station for printing a Fall bookmark or card to take home. We gave away plants started by our FOOP vice president to any gardeners that attended. At the end of the event small bags of candy and toys, (150) were given to each child attending the Festival. All in all the day was a big success! 

Diane Kunze, president, Friends of Overington Park

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AIDS Awareness Day

In an effort to better inform his constituents about the nature of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, state Rep. James Clay Jr., D-Phila., will host an AIDS Awareness Day later this week.    The event will start at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 17 at his district office, 4915 Frankford Ave.

At the event, attendees will be able to get free, confidential HIV/AIDS testing. Counselors will also be on hand to distribute information about the disease and to answer questions. In addition, there will be giveaway items on site and light refreshments will be served.

The event is open to the public.  All are welcome to attend Clay’s AIDS Awareness Day, and the event will be held rain or shine. For questions or more information about this event, please contact the district office at (215) 744-7901.