WWW.BROOKLYN-USA.ORG Winter 2010/11

MESSAGE from Enjoy Your MARTY Brooklyn Holidays!

Although it feels like summer just ended, another holiday season is here. This is the perfect time to reflect on how fortunate we are to live in the greatest city in this magnificent nation, Brooklyn, USA. As you enjoy this special time with your loved ones, I urge you to spare a thought for Brooklynites who could use some holiday cheer, especially those affected by the economic downturn. By all means, welcome the American Ballet Theatre to Brooklyn by attending a performance of The Nutcracker at BAM, imbibe some eggnog, play a spirited game of drei- dle, but also look for ways you can make a difference in somebody’s life. In this issue of Brooklyn!!, you will find several examples of Brooklynites and organizations who have given of themselves to make Brooklyn a better place. I hope you are inspired by their stories. But remember that making a difference can be as simple as donating provi- sions to a food bank, donating new or gently used toys or clothes or vol- unteering for an organization that provides hot holiday meals to those who are alone or who cannot afford to celebrate the holidays. I like to remember the saying “there but for the grace of God go I.” Let’s not forget, many of us are just two or three paychecks away from severe financial hardship. It’s wonderful seeing the faces of family and 4 “Presepio,” a miniature replica of the town of Bethlehem, is open to the public at the St. Athanasius Parish friends light up when they see the perfect gift you got for them. But I (Lower Church) in Bensonhurst. Anthony Vigilante maintains the exhibit. have found that if you dig deep and give what you can to those in need, it can be the most satisfying gift of all. Once again, may you and yours have a joyous holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year. P.S. All of us at Borough Hall look forward to the new year and offer hearty congratulations to Governor-elect Andrew Cuomo, Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy, Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and Attorney General Eric Schneiderman—as well as all the newly elected and reelect- ed members of the Brooklyn delegation in Congress, the State Senate and the Assembly.

CALLING ALL SWEETHEARTS!

Are you 4 The lights are and your spouse bright in Dyker Heights PRSRT STD PRSRT Permit No. 2350 BROOKLYN, N.Y. BROOKLYN, Brooklynites who come Christmas time!

U.S. POSTAGE PAID POSTAGE U.S. have been married 50 years or more? he holidays are the perfect time to leave cares behind and get into the Join Marty and Jamie holiday spirit by sharing some special moments with family and friends! for a Of course, there’s no reason to leave Brooklyn for all the pageantry and Valentine’s Day T party to renew wonder of the season. So get out your calendars and make sure you find time to your vows and create tomorrow’s memories today in true Brooklyn style. toast love’s eternal flame. See page 5 for a listing, although by no means all, of the many holiday events February 14, 2011 happening throughout the borough. And no matter what you do, have a happy 1pm at El Caribe and safe holiday season in beautiful Brooklyn! Country Club Brooklyn, NY 11201 209 Joralemon Street Call (718) 802-4488 to reserve a spot. STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 2 BROOKLYN BOROUGH HALL BROOKLYN A Courier-Life Publication Winter 2010/11

BRINGING UP BABY—AGAIN! COVERING THE WHITE HOUSE Fall 2008 You raise your kids, and then your kids When Alan Rada says he’s covered the White have kids. You don’t expect to be a parent House, he’s not talking about the press corps, he’s talk- again, but more grandparents are these ing wallpaper. Part of a dream team—including days—83,946 grandparents in New York Mitchell Ehrlich and Anthony Bonino—Rada pa- City according to the US Census. The rea- pered President Obama’s private study, the Presidential sons are complicated but include family cri- Dining Room and the Oval Office this past August. sis, a bad economy and even the fact that— Rada learned the trade from his father, a profes- in some cases—grandparents are better sional installer for contractor Warner Krebs. Rada’s 4 GAMA members include, front row from equipped to provide care. left: Victoria Chase, Patricia Bell, Barbara In 1991, the Fort Greene-based Catholic wild and wooly career also includes volunteer work Ensley, Gale Newton and Maria Lemons; Charities Brooklyn and Queens created a at a kibbutz in 1973 at the outbreak of the Yom Back row from left: GAMA Group Facilitator Kippur War, and time as a jewelry importer, realtor, SaddiQa Beyah, Elaine Manatu, Jacqueline safe, welcoming embrace for grandparents, Edwards and Florine Bruce. aunts, uncles, siblings and other caregivers teacher and night-shift security guard. 4 In 1996, Rada and his wife opened DecoRada Alan Rada of DecoRada who find themselves again in a parenting Wallpaper does the job right! role. Called Grandmothers as Mothers Again (& Caregivers), or GAMA, it provides a Wallpaper Installation in their Flatbush/Midwood place where members can share the pressures and challenges of parenting. home, employing two full- and two part-time staff. Specializing in pristine applications “I have raised my five grandchildren since they were babies,” said GAMA member Vic- of wallpaper, fabric and murals, Rada is quick to pass along industry secrets. “I’ve been in- toria Chase, “and the group’s support lets you know you’re not alone when it feels like no stalling wallpaper for more than forty years and I can’t stress enough the importance of one understands the emotional, mental and physical strength it takes to raise a family at preparation before you hang paper,” said Rada. “Walls must be prepared meticulously for our time of life.” good results, and I take the time to do that critical prep work.” GAMA offers other vital services like emergency food assistance, anger management And although do-it-yourself homeowners may be able to hang simple papers them- workshops and individualized case management. GAMA staffers provide advocacy for their members with a network of social service agencies that offer legal advice, housing selves, many of today’s wallpapers have raised or flocked patterns, or papers created from services, after school programs, recreational activities, counseling, parenting workshops and fragile grasses, barks or metallics. These exquisite—and often costly—papers need to be other kincare-related services. handled and applied by an expert. Support groups in both English and Spanish are available. If you or someone you know Which is why the beautiful bark skin wallpaper that now graces the Presidential Din- is caring for a young family member and needs some support, contact GAMA today. ing Room looks so good. When the White House beckons, who you gonna call? Brook- To contact GAMA, call Erin Carmen, Catholic Charities Brooklyn West Community lynite Alan Rada, that’s who! Center, (718) 722-6001; or SaddiQa Beyah, Catholic Charities Dr. White Community DecoRada Wallcovering Installations, 1376 East 31st. St.; (718) 338-0645; Center, (718) 875-8801. www.decorada.com

THE SECOND TIME AROUND 24/7 RX IN THE SLOPE

Retirement no longer has to mean the In a city that never sleeps, Brooklyn’s end of a career or losing skills and expert- got the place that’s been awake the ise that took a lifetime to build. With the longest. The Neergaard Pharmacy on 5th flood of nearly 80 million baby boomers Ave. in Park Slope opened its doors in diving into the retirement pool and record 1888, when Brooklyn was still its own city. numbers of workers who will reach retire- Founded by a Danish immigrant named ment age over the next decade, there is a Julius de Neergaard, the store remained in reservoir of talent waiting to be utilized. the de Neergaard family through three That is where ReServe comes in. generations, until the Tomassetti family This nonprofit organization connects purchased it in 1987. Since 1901, Neer- experienced adults, age fifty-five and older, gaard has been open 24 hours a day, sev- with part-time compensated service op- en days a week—except for a few days portunities. Re-serving, according to Ex- 4 ReServists David Krutchik (center) and during World War I. 4 The Tomassetti family—Lisa Tomassetti ecutive Director Mary S. Bleiberg, “de- Nathan Fuchs (right) met with Assistant DA Today, Neergaard is the oldest inde- Sutherland, Lisa’s husband Thomas Sutherland, scribes the kinds of work that people Virginia Modest at the Kings County District Rosemarie Tomassetti and Diana Tomassetti— Attorney’s Office in 2008. Krutchik works as a pendently owned pharmacy in Brook- pursue when they have finished their pri- has run Neergaard Pharmacy since 1987. marketing assistant and Fuchs served the DA’s lyn, and one of the oldest in the City— mary careers and want part-time work that office as an advocate for seniors. will have a big social impact.” and one of the few pharmacies that are open 24 hours a day. “Doctors know they can send “ReServists” include artists, writers, teachers, lawyers and social workers, healthcare patients here at all hours,” store manager Tom Sutherland said. Neergaard is also uniquely professionals, those in banking, advertising, government and manufacturing to name a few. set up to serve Brooklyn’s growing senior population, and even includes a surgical shop These adults are matched with nonprofit organizations and public institutions that can that sells everything from walkers to wheelchairs (Neergaard also operates a 7th Ave. lo- benefit from a ReServist’s talents and experience. The program offers these boomers a cation that is not open 24 hours). chance to re-engage in the workplace and lend their talents and energies in the service of From the crash of a United Airlines jet in Park Slope in 1960 (a Neergaard employee is their communities. More than 170 ReServists have been placed in Brooklyn nonprofits visible in the photo The New York Times ran the next day), to the attacks of September 11, and public institutions. 2001 (Brooklynites who walked home from Manhattan queued up for masks and other ReServist Selma Jackson, former owner of 4W Circle of Art and Enterprise in Fort supplies), Neergaard has been there through the city’s most perilous times. Greene said, “ReServe attracted me because it was part-time work and it was flexible. It “We endured through the Great Depression and two world wars and we’ve always kept allowed me to use some of my gifts to assist community organizations.” up with the times,” Sutherland said. “Park Slope is still the place to be.” Do you still have more in your re-serve? Neergaard Pharmacy, 454 5th Ave. Open 24 hours every day; (718) 768-0600; or visit For more information, call: (212) 710-9221 or visit www.reserveinc.org www.neergaardpharmacies.com

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Brooklyn Youth Chorus Academy: Holiday DEAR SANTA Menorah Lighting: Columbus Park in front of the Enjoy Your Harmonies Concert at Our Lady of Lebanon State Supreme Court, at sundown Dec. 1-8. St. Nicholas: Visits the Lefferts Historic House FREE. Marty joins the lighting Dec. 2 at 5:30pm. Brooklyn Holidays! Church in Brooklyn Heights. Dec. 17 and 18. in Prospect Park on Nov. 28 at 3pm. FREE. Park CircleFall Menorah 2008 Lighting: Parkside Ave. (CONTINUED FROM COVER) Jingle Bell Jamboree: Holiday music, dancing GO SHOPPING! and sing-a-long, the Old First Reformed Church Dec. 1-8 at sundown. Shoppers get a Brooklyn Bonus at Shop PERFORMANCE/CULTURAL EVENTS in Park Slope, FREE (Suggested donations: $5 Brighton Beach Menorah Lighting: Brighton Brooklyn merchants. Visit ishopbrooklyn.com. per child/$10 per adult). Dec. 18 at 7pm. Beach/Coney Island Aves. Dec. 1-8 at sundown. The Kings Bay Y’s Chanukah Extravaganza: Shop Brooklyn launches “Brooklyn Friday,” aka Performances, menorah lighting, rides, games, The American Ballet Theater’s world premier of Black Friday, Nov. 26. Atlantic Avenue LDC Tree lighting at the music and kosher food. FREE. Alexei Ratmansky’s Nutcracker: BAM’s Howard Belarusan Church, corner of Atlantic Ave/Bond www.kingsbayy.org or call (718) 648-7703. NYCreates Seventh Annual 2010 Holiday Crafts Gilman Opera House. Dec. 22-Jan 2. St., FREE. Dec. 2 at 6-8pm. Dec. 5 11am-2pm. Fair at the Brooklyn Historical Society. Dec 8-12, Fulton Street Mall Holiday: Brooklyn Ballet’s Weekdays 11am-7pm, Weekends 10am-5pm. Frank Seddio’s Annual Holiday Lights The Marks JCH of Bensonhurst: Chanukah Extravaganza on Flatlands Ave. at 93rd St. in “Hip Hop” Nutcracker. Dec. 3, 10, 17 & 21 Brooklyn Flea’s Gifted Holiday Market at Celebration at 7802 Bay Parkway. For more info: Canarsie begins Dec. 6 at 5pm. (718) 331-6800, ext. 110. Dec. 5 at 12pm. from 12pm-4pm. Visit www.fultonstreet.org for Skylight One Hanson features 100 art, jewelry, other events. antiques and food vendors plus a holiday tree! Borough Hall Holiday Tree Lighting: Brooklyn College Chorale and Conservatory www.brooklynflea.com/gifted. Dec. 7 at 5:30pm. Chamber Choir: Holiday Concert at BC’s COME OUTSIDE! Dec. 15-23, 11am-7pm. DUMBO Tree Lighting: The Archway under Gershwin Theater. FREE. Dec. 9 at 4:40pm. Wild Holiday Party: Watch baboons, red pandas FOR THOSE IN NEED the Manhattan Bridge. Dec. 8 at 6:30pm. The Mark Morris Dance Group: The Hard and other Prospect Park Zoo inhabitants tear into If you know someone in need, tell them about Dyker Heights Neighborhood Lights: Between Nut, at BAM’s Howard Gilman Opera House. holiday presents with hidden treats. Free with admis- the free Annual Holiday Dinner at the Park 80th and 86th Streets from 10th to 13th Dec. 10-19. sion. Every Sat/Sun in Dec. 11:30am & 3:30pm. Slope Armory, sponsored by the YM/ YWCA of Avenues, begins after Thanksgiving. Bensonhurst’s St. Athanasius Church: FIDO Bark! The Herald Angels Sing: A sing-a- Brooklyn. Dec. 25 at 11am-5pm. CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR! “Presepio,” a miniature replica of Bethlehem, long with dog-centric lyrics, hot beverages, plus GET CRAFTY Join Marty to ring in the New Year with enter- everyday 8am–3pm. Contact the church at (718) Santa posing with your pooch! Long Meadow in Brooklyn Women’s Exchange, Holiday Craft tainment, refreshments and New Year’s Eve 236-0124 or Anthony Vigilante (718) 837-1682. Prospect Park. FREE. Dec. 11 from 8am-10am. Begins Dec. 12. Sundays, 55 Pierrepont Street, (718) 624-3435, Fireworks at Grand Army Plaza. FREE. Christmas Bird Count: Helps researchers track Dec. 5 & 12. Dec. 31 at 11pm. The Brooklyn Heights’ Grace & Spiritus the long-term health of bird populations. Chorale: Community Sing, Montague St. The Dyker Library’s Holiday Arts & Crafts THANK YOU VERY MULCH! Audubon Center in Prospect Park. Call (718) Promenade Tree Lighting Ceremony and workshop at 8202 13th Ave. Call (718) 748- Mulch your holiday tree into healthy ground 287-3400 ext. 303 for more information. caroling. Dec. 15 at 5:30-7pm. 6261. Dec. 23 at 3:15pm. cover. Two locations: Third St. & Prospect Park Dec. 18 at 12pm & 3pm. West or Park Circle Park entrance (Prospect Park The 290-member Grammy-award winning LIGHT UP THE NIGHT! Southwest & Parkside Ave.). For more info: Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir: Borough Hall. The Brooklyn Three Kings Day Parade: Starts at Menorah Lighting: Grand Army Plaza at www.nycgovparks.org/services/mulchfest/mul FREE. Dec. 15 at 4:30pm. Meeker and Graham in Williamsburg. Jan 9 at 2pm. sundown Dec. 1-8. chfest.html Jan. 8-9.

BIG TASTE, SMALL PLACE

Abistro in Fort Greene is tiny and the tables fill up quickly. But the sound of chopping coming from the small kitchen means that big taste is on its way. Ever since Senegalese Abdoul Gueye opened Abistro in 2005, he’s been drawing crowds. His menu reflects the cuisines of Northern Africa, France and native ethnic groups like the Wolof. Trout, chicken, tofu or beef might end up in a bouillabaisse or stew or be drizzled with spicy vinaigrette. Big flavors like lemon, ginger, mustard and cinnamon figure prominently. Taste the Senegalese fried chicken with pineap- 4 Chef Abdoul Gueye’s cuisine at Abistro in Fort Greene ple scented jasmine rice cakes, salsa and dijonnaise is getting big raves. sauce and you’ll know it’s not like ordinarty fried chicken. It’s so popular both the brunch and dinner menu carry it. There’s also black-eyed pea fritters with codfish, West African spicy trout in soy sauce vinaigrette or Moroccan salmon with kale and couscous in peanut palm oil sauce. And it’s all exquisitely presented and served with a smile. This kind of food guarantees a chef ’s acclaim. Although Gueye cooked in Manhattan for 15 years, his location of choice for his own restaurant was Brooklyn. “I fell in love with my wife, Cassandra, in Fort Greene and wanted to create something special here that doesn’t exist in Manhattan,” said Gueye. “In my cooking, I try to reflect all the cul- tures that have influenced me.” Different ethnicities coming together and creating something unique? Kind of sounds like Brooklyn, don’t you think? Abistro, 154 Carlton Ave., (btw. Myrtle/Willoughby); (718) 855-9455; Open Tues- Thur 6-10:30pm, Fri/Sat 6-12pm, Sat/Sun for brunch 10am-3:30pm, Sun 6-9:30pm; Reservations suggested.

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FROM THE MESS HALL TO BROOKLYN’S LOOKING GOOD Spring 2003 WHERE NEW YORK CITY BEGINS THE WEDDING HALL Does Brooklyn inform the way we dress? For When Marine Captain Robert Rossicone it does. What’s more, Rossicone’s Matthew Turner and Emily Grant, Brooklyn-inspired fashion sense earned him the ti- then a second lieutenant, struck up tle 2010 Esquire Magazine Best Dressed Real an awkward conversation in a Man Finalist. Camp Fallujah mess hall in 2006 in First off, Rossicone is passionate about all things Iraq, it marked the beginning of a Brooklyn—he named his daughter “Breuckelen” after Brooklyn love story whose pro- all. He credits Bay Ridge, where he lives and teaches, logue was actually written in as having a gutsy, blue-collar edge that not only keeps Brooklyn Heights. Although the the community from being sanitized but inspires couple grew up only a half block some of his sartorial choices, like dark, work-wear from one another and their parents denim and sturdy, well-made shoes. Also inspiring are were acquaintances, their paths Rossicone’s students, whose streetwear fashions often never crossed. In fact, it was Cap- 4 Matthew Turner and Emily Grant Turner—both predate the Milan and Paris runway looks. Marine captains—had to go all the way to Iraq to meet Rossicone thinks our residents dress better than tain Turner’s mother who told her even though they grew up in Brooklyn Heights. son that a friend’s daughter had Manhattanites because few Brooklynites were born joined the Marines. Armed with her last name and information about her height (just over with “silver spoons.” “That sense of frugality,” said 4 Robert Rossicone—with daughter Rossicone, “prevents us from buying one cookie- six feet), Captain Turner approached Lieutenant Grant a few months later. Breuckelen—is one of Esquire After that initial encounter, they were both unsure where the relationship would go, but Magazine’s best dressed “Real Men!” cutter look from an expensive boutique. We’re soon were talking frequently about life back in Brooklyn. “At that point, I really had a prone to experiment, to match a thrift store jacket crush on him,” said Emily. “But Fallujah is not a really good place to start dating, so we and custom trousers with a tie purchased on eBay. That all makes for an interesting look.” kept up a relationship that was appropriate for a combat zone.” After both were trans- Men looking for fashion advice, hear this: Rossicone’s three “must-haves” include a clas- ferred to California’s Camp Pendleton the following year, they began dating regularly. sic navy blue blazer, which goes with everything from grey flannels to jeans to khakis. Next, Last month, the Turners were married at SS. Constantine & Helen Cathedral in a great-fitting pair of raw denim jeans. And finally, an expert tailor. Most clothing is made Brooklyn Heights, far from the battlefields of Iraq. The reception was held at the Heights for an average fit, which few men are, so a good tailor can take an off-the-rack suit to the Casino, where they had both taken dancing and tennis lessons, but never at the same time. next level. Rossicone says his Dyker Heights tailor makes him look like “a million bucks!” And, Emily is not only a Turner now, but a captain as well. Just one question: with two So follow Rossicone’s lead and get yourself a classic blazer, and while you’re at it, get Captain Turners at home, who takes orders from whom? yourself a Brooklyn tailor too!

SINGING FOR YOUR SUPPER

If you long for a place in which a 50-year-old is considered youthful, and you also want a comfortable place with delicious food and great live music in a mature setting, Il Posto in Bergen Beach is for you. Owner Tony Evangelista, manager Nicky and Chef Nino—famed, former executive chef of Nino’s Restaurant in Coney Island Avenue in Midwood for 35 years—are the welcome wagon, dis- pensing charm, efficiency and fabulous Italian specialties. Foodies love the Nino 4 When Alfio croons, the ladies swoon! Combo: chicken francese, veal and filet mignon; or the mouth-watering fresh figs stuffed with fontina cheese and prosciutto. But Il Posto also packs ‘em in for live music and even dancing. And those who like their pasta fagioli and fettuccini bolognese served to the tune of Pavarotti, Roy Orbison, or other adult contemporary standards, can’t wait to hear the Australian-born singing sensation, Alfio, perform. “Alfio has an incredible voice,” said Evangelista. “He gets the women crying and the men sighing just by turning a phrase. And even though he was born in Australia, he’s Italian through and through!” For 13 years, Il Posto has been drawing locals, but with Chef Nino cooking, the music humming and the beautiful neighborhood of Bergen Beach/Mill Basin here to discover, it’s no wonder folks from all over Brooklyn, Staten Island, New Jersey and even the outer borough of Manhattan are making the trip. Il Posto, 7409 Avenue U at E. 74th St; (718) 241-4317; Open Tues-Thurs noon-10pm,

Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Donors will receive no special access to Fri-Sat noon-11pm, Sun 1pm-9pm; There is no cover charge for the Friday night per- City officials or preferential treatment as a result of a donation. formance but reservations are a must!

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Marty’sON THE BLOCK Fall 2008 Photo by: Photo Ronald by: Glassman L. Photo by:Jill Hoffman 4 Marty and Deputy Borough President Yvonne Graham joined Nick 4 Marty, the BP’s Chief of Staff Carlo Scissura (second from 4 Some of Brooklyn’s little rockers gathered for the Carroll Park Emerson, Jed Levine, Christina Keller, Board Member Jack Kamin and left) and Education Policy Analyst Margaret Kelley (right of Summer Concert Series and joining them were (left to right), Joyce the Brooklyn Memory Walk Volunteer Committee, as well as supporters Marty) were on hand to commend Brooklyn’s Community Seares, PS 29 PTA co-president; Simmi Malhotra Degnemark, of the Alzheimer’s Association of New York City who participated in the Education Council (CEC) appointees. CEC members are appoint- Carroll Park Summer Concert Series director/PS 29 parent; chil- 2010 Memory Walk at the Coney Island Boardwalk. The event raised ed by Marty to help improve our Brooklyn schools. dren’s performer Audra Rox; Marty; and PS 29 parent Randi Song. funds for research and treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease, which affects 250,000 New Yorkers.

4 Edible Schoolyard—a program that integrates sustainable gar- dening and cooking into the City’s public school curriculum—chose Brooklyn for its first NYC school location. Gathered at PS 216, the 4 For 144 years, the Brooklyn Bureau of Community Services has Arturo Toscanini School, in Gravesend were the program’s founder, 4 been building a better Brooklyn through a comprehensive array of Fulfilling youth’s hope. Marty joined Sharon Content, world famous chef and author Alice Waters (center); along with Edible social service programs. Taking note of the organization’s new founder/president of Children of Promise NYC—a nonprofit that pro- Schoolyard NYC Board President John Lyons; Edible Schoolyard name, Brooklyn Community Services (BCS), as well as its long vides after school programs and summer camp for kids with incarcer- Executive Director Christiane Baker; PS 216 Principal Celia record of social responsibility were BCS Chair Jerrold Mulder; ated parents—to celebrate the organization’s one year anniversary of Kaplinsky; award-winning actor Jake Gyllenhaal; Marty; Council Marty; Asst. Exec. Director Norma Martin; Marketing & serving families in Bedford Stuyvesant and beyond. Ms. Content was Member Domenic M. Recchia, Jr.; PS 216 students and others. Communications Director Jill Jefferson and Board Member Dan also recently recognized as a recipient of Brooklyn Community Ross, Wechsler Ross & Partners president. Best wishes for Exec. Foundation’s “Brooklyn Do Gooders” award. Director Alan Goodman’s full recovery!

4 Three cheers for affordable housing! The Bradford, a new residential and retail development in Bedford Stuyvesant, will offer 105 apartments

Photo by: Arthur Photo Da by: Gaeta and the Canarsie Courier for low- and middle-income families in the summer of 2012. Among 4 Marty joined ice cream lovers at Cold Stone Creamery in Sheepshead those celebrating this significant revitalization in the Bed Stuy commu- Bay off Knapp Street for Make A Wish Foundation’s 9th annual “World’s nity were, from left, Council Member Al Vann; Julian Phillips, repre- Largest Ice Cream Social.” Cold Stone Creamery owners Eric Steinweiss senting Congress Member Ed Towns; BRP Managing Director Geoff and Joseph Scuteri were glad to support efforts that help the wishes of 4 The 32nd Annual Brownstoners House Tour benefitted the Flournoy; NYCHDC President Marc Jahr; HPD Commissioner Rafael children with terminal illnesses come true. Marty selflessly offered to McDonald/Glee Jr. and Joan Maynard Memorial Scholarship Cestero; Bed-Stuy Restoration Corp. President/CEO Colvin Grannum; scoop ice cream for the good cause and was even willing to sample the Funds. Celebrating the group’s distinguished history of community Brooklyn born and bred Goldman Sachs Chair/CEO Lloyd C. wares—especially when his wife, Jamie, isn’t around! service to Bedford Stuyvesant were, among others, Brownstoners Blankfein; Marty; BRP Managing Director Meredith Marshall; and President Ava Barnett, Chair Marguerita Fletcher, Co-chair Chana Carver Bancorp CEO and former HPD Commissioner Deborah Wright. Wells, and founders Brenda Fryson, Clarence Jones and Reggie Shell. Marty was also on hand to commend the group as well as scholarship recipient, Cathy Anne Matthews. Photo by:Waleed Photo Cope by:Waleed 4 4 The 6th Annual Bed-Stuy Alive! Celebration and Tohma Y. Faulkner 4 Marty joined Brooklyn Borough President Emeritus The Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce (CACCI) met to Awards on Fulton St. included cultural performances and brought much Sebastian “Sam” Leone (center) at Borough Hall to unveil explore economic opportunities in Grenada. Among those gathered deserved recognition to community leaders. Marty joined some of the organ- the 35-year-old “Welcome to Brooklyn, 4th Largest City in were Dr. Eda Hastick; CACCI president Dr. Roy Hastick; the Prime izers of the event including, from left, Robert E. Cornegy Jr; Bill Wren; Bed- America” sign, as celebrated in the opening sequence of Minister of Grenada Tillman Thomas; Acting Secretary Stuy Restoration Corp’s Colvin W. Grannum; Brownstoners of Bed-Stuy “Welcome Back, Kotter,” starring Brooklynite Gabe Kaplan International Trade/Environment Sally Anne Bagwhan Logie; Founding Member Brenda Fryson; Planning Committee Chair Anna and John Travolta. Nino Russo, owner of Coney Island’s Marty; Greg Bishop, assistant commissioner DSBS; City Council Bloodworth; and honorees Joeletha Ferguson, Margo Lewis, Daphnee Gargiulo’s Restaurant was also present; Russo generously Member Jumaane Williams; and CACCI Board member Patricia Surpris, Eddie Freeman, Dr. Sam Pinn, Wilma E. Maynard, Minnie Laura loaned the sign for display at Borough Hall. “Welcome Back, Sampson, managing director, Bank of New York Mellon. Grenada is Jones and Laurie Cumbo. Kotter” co-creator/producer Alan Sacks also sent a video the birthplace of Slinger Franciso, aka the Mighty Sparrow. greeting for the event.

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PICTURING BROOKLYN SOMETHING FISHY Spring 2003 WHERE NEW YORK CITY BEGINS When Thomas Roma was recuperating from Did you know that along with be- a car accident, instead of feeling sorry for him- ing beautiful in a home or office, self, he picked up a camera and started shooting. aquariums can reduce stress and low- To say that Brooklyn became his muse is an er blood pressure? You may also be understatement. “I love everything about Brook- surprised to learn that Brooklyn has lyn,” said Roma. “The sound of the name, the the oldest aquarist organization in shape on the map. From the neighborhoods to the country. the architecture to the width of the streets and The Brooklyn Aquarium Society the people who live there, it’s impossible to be (BAS) has been educating hobbyists bored in Brooklyn.” 4 This tropical fish is aptly named the “Peacock” fish. since 1911 about freshwater and marine Despite seemingly ordinary moments and back- fish, corals, invertebrates and plants. drops, Roma’s photographs are timeless: children Along with helping beginners establish healthy aquariums and providing a forum for playing, families worshipping; abandoned buildings, long time fish enthusiasts, BAS donates and installs aquariums in Brooklyn schools and Photo by: Anna Photo Roma by: city playgrounds and pools. All captured in the rare advances our understanding of how important it is to protect wild aquatic environments. 4 The photographer, Thomas Roma, as subject. Brooklyn light and—like all great photographs— From monthly educational programs and lectures, to discounts and auctions, plus a web- emblematic of a period but still resonant today. site that links to all sorts of fish-related information, BAS members really channel their Roma’s talent has led to two Guggenheim Fellowships, one-person exhibits at inner Jacques Costeau. MOMA and the International Center of Photography, teaching stints at Yale, Fordham, “When the seas are threatened by global warming and many species of aquatic life are Cooper Union and The School of Visual Arts and, since 1996, an appointment as direc- on the verge of extinction,” said BAS president Joe Graffagnino, “societies like BAS offer tor of Photography at Columbia University School of the Arts. His next book of photo- a ray of hope that endangered species can be bred in a captive environment and, in the graphs, his twelfth, is a photographic record of Army National Guardsmen as they pre- future, released into the wild.” Graffagnino and BAS’s 300+ members look forward to pare for deployment to Iraq called Dear Knights and Dark Horses. celebrating the Society’s 100 year anniversary in February at its headquarters at the New In the Greenwood Heights home he shares with his wife, Anna, and son, Giancarlo, York Aquarium in Coney Island. Roma not only develops his own film, but designs and makes his own cameras. Inventor, ar- So if you want to experience the joy of tropical fish, from angels to zebras, or learn tisan, renowned educator and critically-acclaimed photographer, no matter what you call more about how we can all protect aquatic life, the Brooklyn Aquarium Society can help him Thomas Roma masters them all. you get your feet wet! Visit www.thomasroma.com for more information about the photographer and to Brooklyn Aquarium Society, PO Box 290610, Brooklyn, NY 11229-0011; Hotline: see examples of his work. (718) 837-4455; or visit www.brooklynaquariumsociety.org

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Spring 2003 BROOKLYN BEAT WHERE NEW YORK CITY BEGINS

4 Homecrest Community Services in Sheepshead Bay held its 4 Friends and supporters of Cypress Hills Community School, annual Homecrest Senior Health Fair, offering health screenings PS/IS 89 were on hand to cut the ribbon for the brand new build- and workshops in both Chinese and English. Gathered for the event ing, considered one of NYC’s first “green” schools and one that pro- were, among others, from left, Homecrest Board Member Lisa Eng; vides a high-tech greenhouse, science lab, art room, music suite, Senate Finance Chair, Senator Carl Kruger; BP Asian Liaison Alice 1,000-sq.- ft. library, 4,000-sq.-ft. gym and cafeteria. Among those 4 Brooklyn’s own Dancewave from Park Slope won a coveted spot— gathered for the festivities were Principal Irene Leon; CHLDC and the only invitation extended to an American group—to perform Wong; Assembly Member Helene Weinstein; Assembly Member Executive Director Michelle Neugebauer; Senator Martin Malave at the prestigious Aberdeen International Youth Festival in Scotland. Steven Cymbrowitz; Assembly Member Peter Abbate; Council Dilan—who provided a large portion of funding; Brooklyn Pictured in front of Aberdeen Mercat Cross were Dancewave Member Michael Nelson; NYC Comptroller John Liu; Homecrest Community Foundation President Marilyn Gelber; Council Company Director Diane Jacobowitz and her “bonny” company. Chair Don Lee; Executive Director Richard Kuo; Program Director Tiphaine Tsang; and CB15 Chair Theresa Scavo. Member Erik Martin Dilan; Council Member Brad Lander; Parent Co-Director Maria Jaya-Vega; and many of the parents and teach- ers who have worked so hard to make the new facility a reality.

4 The Borough President’s Latino Heritage celebration brought 4 4 Net’s new coach Avery “Little General” Johnson (center, back row) Oh shucks! Who better than Brooklyn’s own Paul Randazzo of some of Brooklyn’s distinguished movers and shakers of Latino Randazzo’s Clam Bar—the “Pride of Sheepshead Bay”—to show met with students of MS 51 in Park Slope to talk about positive choices and let kids know that they can “get to the next level.” He descent. Joining the celebration were, from left, honoree Irma Manhattan and the Grand Central Oyster Bar how the shuck it’s Garcia, director of Athletics, St. Francis College; Marty’s Latino done. Guest chef Randazzo had them “clamoring” for more with his also encouraged his future fan base in Brooklyn to get ready to cheer for future NBA champions, the Brooklyn Nets! Liaison Italia Guerrero; Deputy Borough President Yvonne “Baked Oysters on the Half Shell Italian Style” at the annual Graham; honoree Norberta Diaz of Asociacion de Mujeres de “Oyster Frenzy” at the Oyster Bar, an all day public event of shuck- Brooklyn; honoree Luis Garden Acosta of El Puente; and Jason ing, slurping and downing our bi-valve friends. Otano, the borough president’s counsel.

4 Japan’s love affair with all things Brooklyn is ardently repre- 4 Saluting our seniors! Assembly Member Peter Abbate and sented in Tokyo’s Shinjuku Prefecture at the new Brooklyn Parlor, 4 Down south this past summer, Brooklyn really showed ‘em that Council Member Vincent Gentile continue their tradition of hosting a bar, restaurant, café and bookstore featuring the beer and ales of we’re all that! Brooklynite Vivian Salvano, aka Mrs. Plus New York picnics at the Fort Hamilton Army base in tribute to Brooklyn’s sen- the Brooklyn Brewery and a genuine “Brooklyn burger,” as well as 2010, left, placed 6th in the Mrs. Division at the 2010 Miss Plus ior citizens. Marty was thrilled to join them, as well as Assembly other Brooklyn-inspired experiences. From left, Satoshi Togano, BP America Pageant in Louisiana. Pictured with her are Ashley Nicole Member Alec Brook-Krasny; new commander of U.S. Army manager; Rio Natsume, talent coordinator, The Blue Note and the Focer, Miss Plus America 2010; and Tiffany Braxton Belvin, Ms. Garrison-Fort Hamilton Col. Michael Gould; Command Sergeant Cotton Club in Japan; Toby Ludwig, entertainment director of the Plus New York America 2010, both from Queens. Vivian does Major Sylvia Laughlin and Brooklyn seniors. Seaside/MLK Summer Concert Series; and Takanori Matsuuchi, Brooklyn proud by not only her pageant wins, but her efforts to raise BP manager. funds for cancer research and other good causes.

4 Circle of Hope Cancer Foundation’s 15th Annual Walk for Hope was dedicated to the memory of police officer Vito Mauro, who served for 18 years in the 67th Precinct. Proceeds fund programs for 4 Students from Packer Collegiate Institute—the oldest independ- the terminally ill at Calvary Hospital’s Brooklyn campus housed in 4 More than 25,000 walkers came out to Prospect Park and raised ent school in Brooklyn, located in Brooklyn Heights—visited Lutheran Medical Center. Among those attending were Marty; $1,070,000 in the fight against breast cancer during the annual Borough Hall, Brooklyn’s City Hall, for some face time with the BP. Congress Member Anthony Weiner; Geraldine Madonia president, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk of Brooklyn NY spon- Marty encourages young people to participate in the democratic Circle of Hope; Dan Foster, “Fun Run” founder; Vito Maruo’s widow, sored by the American Cancer Society. Deputy Borough President process or even enter the field of government and become the future Ronnie Mauro; daughter Eden Mauro; Bob Turner; and Circle of Yvonne Graham joined many breast cancer survivors along the walk, leaders of Brooklyn. Packer social studies teacher George Boutis Hope secretary Anna McCormack. which Marty also participated in. Kudos to ACS’s Sally Cooper. accompanied the group.

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AUDRA ROCKS, KIDS FLOCK! SERVING THOSE IN NEED Spring 2003 WHERE NEW YORK CITY BEGINS Although there aren’t any 5- WITH DIGNITY year-olds slamming each other Help Tom Neve feed the hungry! mosh pit-style, pint-sized rockers Reaching Out Community Services can be found all over Brooklyn, (RCS), the nonprofit Neve founded in Ben- swaying to Audra Rox. sonhurst, helps feed the working poor, the Like many aspiring performers, unemployed, seniors and others from Bay Rox was drawn to the bright lights Ridge to Gravesend to Flatbush. But with of Broadway, up until the birth of state and city funding shrinking and demand her children. “I needed a job so I at food pantries at an all time high, RCS— started doing music for kids,” said already on a shoestring budget—is fighting Rox. “I discovered that, not only was for survival. I good at it, but it was a joyous way Sanatation Dept. retiree Neve began serv- to make a living.” Proof that neces- 4 Audra rockin’ in the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge! 4 Tom Neve needs your help to help others! ing hot meals out of his van to the homeless sity really is the mother of invention. in 1989. By 1992 he added emergency food It started when Rox performed in a friend’s Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals support for the working poor and low-income families. Four years later RCS offered a su- program, where tots explored music through song, dance and rhythm. Twelve years later, Rox permarket-style food pantry, and today RCS serves more than 3,400 people every month. has become Pied Piper to children and infants, along with their older sibs and parents, who Those in need “shop” the pantry for a large selection of nutritious food much like a super- follow her wherever she goes. Rox offers classes in seven different Brooklyn neighborhoods, market, offering families a dignified way to get the help they need. But record levels of from Bed-Stuy to Williamsburg, including the Red Hook community she calls home. unemployment have increased demand. “Not long ago our clients were seniors and single At an Audra Rox concert, you’ll see hordes of pogo-ing moppets with their equally cap- mothers; now we’re serving people in their 30s and 40s,” said Neve. tivated parents bobbing to tunes like the punkish “I Like to Pretend with You” and the Neve—who draws no salary for his ten-hour days—has been forced to close the pantry country-inspired “I Hope Mama Says Yes!,” as well as eleven other songs from Rox’s fun on Fridays and fears even more cutbacks or even closure altogether. CD, “I Can Do It By Myself.” Rox and her band have also appeared on Nickelodeon’s Is there anything greater than offering a family the blessed gift of a meal this holiday Jack’s Big Music Show and Sesame Street. season? Please find it in your heart to contribute, because RCS and needy Brooklyn fami- No matter where she performs, Audra Rox is parent approved, kid friendly, but most im- lies can really use your support. portant, just downright cool! Send contributions to Reaching Out Community Services, 7708 New Utrecht Avenue, For more information about class schedules and CDs, visit the Audra Rox website at Brooklyn, NY 11214; (718) 373-4565; or visit www.rcsprograms.org and click on the www.audrarox.com Donate Now button.

HELP A TREE GROW IN BROOKLYN RECIPES FOR BROOKLYN’S

The storms that hit Brooklyn in March and CULINARY SUCCESS September felled 750 trees, with Bedford- So how did Brooklyn become one of Stuyvesant, Bushwick, Crown Heights, Park Slope, Prospect Heights, Fort Greene America’s premier culinary destinations? In and Clinton Hill hard hit. The New Brooklyn Cookbook, husband New trees are expensive, especially dur- and wife Brendan and Melissa Vaughan of ing challenging times. But you can help by Park Slope trace Brooklyn’s epicurean evo- making a donation to the Mayor’s Storm lution from the opening of Al di Là in Damage Fund. 1998 to today’s offering of international es- The recently appointed Brooklyn Borough tablishments (many participate in the an- Park Commissioner, Kevin Jeffrey, and Marty nual Dine in Brooklyn event), food trucks, want to make sure that any contributions 4

Brooklyn Borough Park Commissioner bakers, cheesemakers, picklers, chocolatiers Michael Turkell Harlan from Brooklynites benefit Brooklyn. Kevin Jeffrey is calling all Brooklynites to and artisanal food producers. “The first thing Brooklynites see when help a tree grow in Brooklyn! 4 Authors Brendan and Melissa Vaughan This unique cookbook presents colorful of Park Slope they step outside are Brooklyn’s beautiful photography, stories, interviews and more trees,” said Commissioner Jeffrey. “We’re calling all block associations, school groups, BIDs, community-based groups and tree lovers to send donations today!” than 70 dishes. “We worked with each restaurant to choose recipes that the chefs and own- “Brooklyn contributions to the Storm Damage Fund specifically aid Brooklyn’s urban ers were excited about and felt best represented their approach to food,” said Melissa. “The forests,” said Marty. “Turn your green into Brooklyn green by helping replace trees on our result is, we hope, a balanced collection of recipes that are approachable and delicious.” Brooklyn streets.” Home-tested recipes include Buttermilk Channel’s duck meatloaf, The Good Fork’s Even a Manhattan-based theater group, The Peccadillo Theater Company, is raising steak and eggs Korean style, Prime Meats’ beef sauerbraten with red cabbage and pretzel funds for Brooklyn through their upcoming production of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn dumplings and Vinegar Hill House’s cast-iron chicken with caramelized shallots and (visit: www.thepeccadillo.com to find out more). That’s thanks to Dyker Heights resi- sherry pan sauce. And to wash it all down, you can even brew up some American Brown dents Marvin and Laura Reiskin, who work with Peccadillo. Ale from Sixpoint Craft Ale right at home! As Betty Smith wrote, “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn,” and with your help, Brooklyn can “We’re thrilled to have such an incredible range of dining options just steps or a short always be the borough of trees. subway ride from home,” said Brendan, “and we wanted to bottle the culinary energy To make a contribution to replace Brooklyn trees, visit that’s coursed through the borough in the last decade or so.” www.nyc.gov/html/fund/html/donate/donate.shtml. Check the box next to Storm Dam- “The New Brooklyn Cookbook: Recipes and Stories from 31 Restaurants that Put age Fund, then follow directions to make donations electronically. Or you can send checks Brooklyn on the Culinary Map” (William Morrow, $40). Available at Amazon.com, directly to: Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, 253 Broadway, 8th Floor, New York, Barnes & Noble and other retailers. NY 10007. Be sure to write “Brooklyn-specific tree fund” on the front of your check!

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Spring 2003 BROOKLYN BEAT IIWHERE NEW YORK CITY BEGINS

4 The 29th Annual Brooklyn Columbus Day Parade sponsored by the Federation of Italian-American Organizations of Brooklyn 4 Doing Good in Brooklyn and beyond! Under the leadership of Marilyn Gelber, 4 Play’s the thing! Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe joined the Brooklyn Community Foundation recognized exemplary individuals with its (FIAO) brought out members of our esteemed Italian-American com- Windsor Terrace Alliance President Lauren Collins, Public Advocate “Do Gooders” awards, including, The Noel Pointer Foundation’s Chinita Pointer; munity—and those who wish they were—including parade grand Bill de Blasio—who allocated $1.8 million for the project when a Children of Promise NYC’s Sharon Content; United Puerto Rican Organization marshals Vito and Joanne Marienelli, District Leader Frank Seddio member of City Council—Marty; Council Member Brad Lander; of Sunset Park’s Murad Awawdeh; Bed-Stuy Campaign Against Hunger’s and Joseph Andriano; as well as Judge Robert Miller; Dr. Sudha Assembly Member James Brennan; CB7 Chair Randy Peers and Melony Samuels; Arab American Association of New York’s Linda Sarsour; and Patel; Lina Bennardo; Assembly Member William Colton; Charles Prospect Park Alliance President Tupper Thomas to celebrate the Bay Ridge activist and Shore Road Park Conservancy’s Chip Cafiero. Candela; Congress Member Mike McMahon; Marty; City Council newly renovated Vanderbilt Street Playground in Prospect Park. Member Vincent Gentile; FIAO President Frank Naccarato; Senator Marty Golden; City Council Member Domenic M. Recchia Jr.; FIAO Chair G. Jack Spatola and Judge Arthur Schack.

4 Kings County Hospital’s renovated Cancer Care Center (CCC) offers serv- ices in oncology, chemotherapy, surgery, medical screening, treatment and 4 At the annual Italian American Heritage & Culture Month cele- 4 How sweet it is! Junior’s Restaurant, Brooklyn’s legendary eatery, social and psycho-social support. Ribbon cutting participants included, from brazione at Borough Hall, Marty honored the beloved Alaimo celebrated its 60th anniversary with slices of its world famous left, patient Joanne Joseph; Dr. John R. Maese, HHC Board; Auxiliary Family, of Villabate Pasticceria & Bakery and Europa Restaurant. cheesecake selling for a mere 60 cents. Suzanne Banfield was the President Mary Walters; Josephine Bolus, HHC Board; Assembly Member Marty, his wife Jamie and Chief of Staff Carlo Scissura—who winner of the Next Great Junior’s Cheesecake Flavor Recipe Contest; Felix Ortiz; Deputy Borough President Yvonne Graham; Council Member served as emcee—joined Emanuele and Lina Alaimo and their chil- she won $1,800 and a coveted spot for her new cheesecake flavor on Mathieu Eugene; KCHC COO Roslyn Weinstein; KCHC Med. Dir. Dr. Abha dren to admire and enjoy their delicious fare (not pictured Europa’s the Junior’s menu. As borough president, Marty was forced to sam- Agrawal; KCHC CCC Med. Dir. Dr. Theophilus Lewis; CCC Administrator Nino and Cathy Alaimo). Also honored that evening were Joseph ple cheesecake in the contest and is seen here struggling with the Varina Deonarinesingh; KCHC Exec. Dir. Antonio Martin; and Congress Esposito, chief of department, NYPD; and Jeanette (Gina) Argento, demands of his office with Junior’s owner, Alan Rosen. Member Yvette Clark. president, Broadway Stages.

HEALTHY COOKIN’ IN BROOKLYN!

Brooklyn’s reputation as a culinary capital is built by our award-winning chefs and restaurants, the growing number of organic food markets and rooftop farms, plus prod- ucts like cheese, honey and wine that are made right here. And now there’s Ger-Nis Culinary & Herb Center in Park Slope, where food lovers, educators, farmers, chefs and restau- rateurs come together to learn, cook, taste and talk about food. Ger-Nis founder Nissa Pierson is a life long foodie, whose experiences around the 4 Nissa Pierson and tomorrow’s chefs at Ger-Nis in Park Slope. globe—she’s lived in California, Central America and the Northwest—are reflected in the holistic approach she’s developed for growing, cooking and consuming food, something she calls “seed to mouth.” “To me, Brooklyn represents the diversity that I find in my travels,” said Pierson. “Brooklynites also ‘get’ our commitment to community and planet, and like me, want to understand the origin of food and healthy and delicious ways to prepare it.” At Ger-Nis, fresh herbs and organic, fair-traded fruits and vegetables are the rule, and cook- ing classes offer simple, healthy menus for children and regional cooking for adults. You can also meet local experts like Park Slope cocktail specialist and New York Times contributor Justin Briggs or Executive Chef Rafael Hasid, who shares his secrets for Middle Eastern treats. Whether you’re a beginner or expert, young or old, an exciting new world of food awaits you at Ger-Nis Culinary & Herb Center. Ger-Nis Culinary & Herb Center, 540 President Street, Suite 2E, Brooklyn, NY, 11215; (347) 422-0037; Visit http://culinaryherbcenter.ger-nis.com/ to see a current schedule of upcoming cooking classes and events.

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Marty’sON THE BLOCK IIFall 2008

4 Marty was on hand to salute the latest crop of green thumbs 4 Participants gathered for the 5th Annual Liz Padilla Memorial 5K 4 Here she comes! Christina Moore, aka Miss Brooklyn, was wel- from the 16th annual 2010 Greenest Block in Brooklyn contest, Run, sponsored by the Brooklyn Bar Association and the Volunteer comed to Borough Hall by Marty. Ms. Moore is the reigning Miss the residents of Vanderveer Place, between Flatbush Avenue and Lawyers Project, and in memory of the young lawyer who was killed Brooklyn, and if all goes well for this Bensonhurst-born beauty and East 23rd Street in Flatbush. Joining the winning residents were tragically on 5th Avenue in Park Slope while riding her bike to work in she takes the New York State title like we know she will, she’s on to Brooklyn Botanic Garden President Scot Medbury, Brooklyn 2005. From left were David and Kathy Padilla (Liz’s parents); Andrea the Miss America pageant. Miss Brooklyn is a student at Wagner Community Foundation President Marilyn Gelber, Marty and Bonina, president, Brooklyn Bar Association; Marty; and Jeannie College in Staten Island. Greenbridge Director Robin Simmen. Costello, executive director, Brooklyn Volunteer Lawyers Project.

4 Brooklyn came out to honor the heroic Detective Feris “Jonesy” Jones, who prevented an attempted robbery at Sabine’s Hallway hair salon in Bedford Stuyvesant. Attending the cere- 4 The Bay Ridge Community Service Center sponsored its mony were, from left, Jim Vogel, representing Senator 16th Annual Miles for Meals Walkathon to support home 4 Where’s the beef? And ham, chicken, veal, lamb? For the past 80 years Velmanette Montgomery; Assembly Member Joseph Lentol; delivered meals in Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights, Fort Hamilton, the Bova family has been the source for quality meats and other items at Assembly Member Karim Camara; Assistant Chief Gerald Bensonhurst and Bath Beach. Among those showing support Bova’s Meat Market on 13th Avenue in Dyker Heights. Marty joined Joseph Nelson, commanding officer of Patrol Borough Brooklyn North; were Marty, Council Member Vincent Gentile, Assembly and Vincent Bova to help celebrate Bova’s dedication to personal service Marty; Detective Jones and Sabine Bellevue, owner, Sabine’s Member Janele Hyer-Spencer, Senator Martin Golden; (mid- and that old-world attention to detail. Only in Brooklyn! Hallway hair salon. dle row) Patricia Killen, Joan Dalton, Donna McClellan; (front row) Rev. Paul H. Knudsen, pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Joann Mason and Peter Killen.

4 Marty welcomed two home grown suc- cess stories to Borough Hall: award winning actor and star of HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire” Steve Buscemi and the Brooklyn born Emmy-award win-

Photo by: Photo Tyus Ethel by: ning “Sopranos” 4 Crown Heights North Association’s 4th Annual House & Garden writer/producer and Tour raises awareness about the community’s architectural and cul- “Boardwalk Empire” tural treasures, as well as supports the organization’s ongoing efforts. creator/exec. produc- Pictured were CHNA members including, from left, Deborah Young, er Terence Winter. 4 The ever young "Rhythm and Style Tappers” performed at Our CB8 Chair Nizjoni Granville, Veronica Nero-Reid, Consuela Lawless, Mr. Buscemi also Lady of Grace RC Church in Gravesend (and elsewhere) led by the Carolyn Sanders James, Suzanne Spellen, Deborah Jackson, Valerie starred in HBO’s inimitable Betty Markowitz, Marty’s own Aunt Betty. The group is Nero Reid, Diana Foster and Gail Branch Muhammad, as well as “The Sopranos.” more proof that the best time of life begins at 65. Tappers, you do Marty, who was thrilled to join them. Brooklyn proud! Photo by: Photo Photography by: In Style 4 From firehouse to town hall! Engine 212 in Williamsburg, aka the 4 The 2nd Annual TEAL (Tell Every Amazing Lady About People’s Firehouse, will become a public meeting and arts space known Ovarian Cancer) Walk brought out over 1,000 supporters and as the Northside Town Hall and Community Center. Celebrating were raised more than $55,000 in financial support to the Ovarian 4 St. Francis de Sales School for the Deaf in Crown Heights celebrated its many whose support was critical, including, from left, Town Hall Cancer Research Fund. Marty and Senator Martin Golden 50th Anniversary of providing comprehensive educational programs for the Board Member Paul Veneski, son of Adam Veneski—a neighborhood were honored to join TEAL founder Louisa M. McGregor, her deaf and for those with multiple disabilities from infancy to eighth grade. leader who fought to keep the Firehouse open 30 years ago; Assembly husband John, and children Spencer and Ashleigh. McGregor Among those joining the festivities were director Ed McCormack, Principal Member Joseph Lentol; CB1 and Northside Board Member Del Teague started the organization in 2008 with her sister Pamela Maria Bartolillo and Marty, pictured with founder and first superintendent and Marty, who allocated funds for the project. Also pledging future Esposito to raise awareness about the disease and increase of the school, Sister Anne Behre, CSJ, as well as faculty and staff. support was Council Member Steve Levin. funding for research and treatment.

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GOING WITH THE FLOW STROLLING RED HOOK’S Spring 2003 WHERE NEW YORK CITY BEGINS VAN BRUNT STREET A Regular Brooklyn!! Feature! Longing for the streets of Paris, the SPOTLIGHT ON shops on London’s Portobello Road or for the artisanal goods at Istanbul’s SERVICE! Grand Bazaar? Save the airfare and Meet a Brooklyn city agency manager head over to Van Brunt Street in Red who improves our quality of life Hook. You’ll discover an afternoon of every day. shopping, noshing and people-watching without changing time zones! 4 DEP’s Tom Marrama keeps Brooklyn water flowing. Start with good coffee and just try to resist a little something more from 4 A stroll down Red Hook’s Van Brunt Street You may not think about water when you sprinkler cap—so if you must during hot sum- Baked at 359 Van Brunt. is sure to raise your hip factor. turn on the tap, but Tom Marrama sure does. mer weather, use sprinkler caps available from Pop into 388 Van Brunt and the As Brooklyn borough manager for the De- the FDNY. Another thing to avoid is pouring slightly aged-looking Erie Basin, where the ever-changing assortment of vintage engage- partment of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) household grease down the drain. As it cools it ment rings, Native American silver and Art Deco and contemporary pieces make each Bureau of Water and Sewer Operations, Mar- solidifies and clogs residential lines as well as visit a scavenger hunt. rama makes sure that the water supply and sewer lines, ultimately causing SBUs, or sewer Drop into Red Lipstick at 390 Van Brunt and try on a frock or pick out a one-of-a- sewer systems operate smoothly and safely. back ups, something we all want to prevent. kind sweater, scarf or other accessory. Marrama started with DEP 30 years ago as (Pour cooking grease into a used can and dis- Stop in and see printmaker Jane Buck at 392 Van Brunt at Foxy and Winston,where a water plant operator, a hands-on job that card with your regular garbage.) she sells her handmade, silkscreened stationary, wall art and organic baby tees and onesies. coupled with his experience in every borough Even though he works “under the radar,” Mar- Head next door to Tiburon and pick up a Red Hook souvenir or some other must- have tchotchke. makes him an expert on the system’s 7,000 rama loves his job. “Our work may be unseen to the Don’t miss Metal and Thread at 398, where the exquisitely hand wrought jewelry, fur- miles of water mains and tunnels as well as the public but the results sure aren’t,” said Marrama. niture and objet d’art—all of it of copper, steel, leather, enamel or fabric—bring the arts 7,400 miles of sewer lines. Maintaining our “Without a way for you to get water and get rid of and crafts movement magnificently to life. borough’s lines is critical to daily operations— wastewater, the city simply can’t function. Everyday Pop back down to 357 and botta di vino for a special bottle of wine or even one of the including FDNY’s access to water—and the I get to use my experience to solve a new problem.” shop’s special wine tastings. environmental protection of waterways. And boy, are we glad he does! These are only a few of the fascinating shops and restaurants of Van Brunt St. Brooklynites, you can help! Avoid using fire For more information about the DEP, visit Visit www.redhookbrooklyn.net for more information on one of Brooklyn’s most hydrants—it is illegal to use them without a www.nyc.gov.dep unique communities.

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CONVENIENCE, COMFORT AND CAREFall 2008 Fifteen percent of the Memorial Sloan- Kettering Cancer Center’s patients live in Brooklyn and now they have a convenient treatment facility to help them on the road to a greater quality of life. The Center—which has provided treatment to patients and com- passion to families since 1884—has opened the borough’s first facility in Downtown Brooklyn for patients currently being treated Photo by: Photo Memorial by: Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan. The new Brooklyn Infusion 4 Patients at the Brooklyn Infusion Center Center is a 7,745-sq.-ft. street-level facility can receive treatment in private suites, where innovative chemotherapy chairs that accommodates up to 30 patients a day to include Internet-ready interactive systems. receive chemotherapy treatment. With its cen- tral location, it provides leading-edge chemotherapy treatment to current patients of Memori- al Sloan-Kettering in a convenient and comfortable setting. In taking on a project of this magnitude, many issues were brought into consideration, primary of which was to insure a positive patient experience, efficient care delivery and controlled healthcare costs. “Cancer chemotherapy treatment typically spans a lengthy pe- riod during which convenience and reduced wait time are critically important to patients,” said Wendy Perchick, MSKCC’s director of Strategic Planning and Innovation. The use of technology, innovation in design and streamlining the process all contribute to the success of that objective. In addition, the Brooklyn Infusion Center serves as a community resource and neigh- borhood partner, providing cancer education and wellness promotion. Those interested in seeking care may contact the Physician Referral Service at 800-525-2225. Brooklyn Infusion Center, 557 Atlantic Avenue; Mon–Sat 8am–6pm; Or visit www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/100011.cfm

A GRANDMOTHER’S LEGACY

It started with Bobbie Schick, beloved grandmother and one of Borough Park’s guardian angels, who always had a kind word or a gently- used sweater for anyone in need. “Bobbie was the most generous person I’ve ever known,” said grand- son Avi Schick. “She wanted to help the needy but with dignity.” Bob- bie’s good deeds motivated her grandkids, who wanted to honor 4 Bobbie’s Place gives kids in need the joy her memory and continue her lega- of picking out new clothing. cy of kindness. So, eleven years ago in Midwood, Schick, wife Michal, and some cousins opened Bob- bie’s Place. It’s a unique children’s store that looks like any retailer: rows of crisp new clothes, mothers combing racks for a new Rosh Hashanah dress or suit, and kids anxious to try on and take their selections home. But despite the dressing rooms, shopping bags and polite service, despite brand new merchandise complete with price tags, all the clothing is free to people in need. Growing families who are unemployed or struggling to make ends meet in this pre- dominately Orthodox Jewish neighborhood rely on Bobbie’s Place for new kids’ clothing either donated by manufacturers or purchased wholesale by the Schicks. But kids are kids, ever alert to the “stigma” of buying used or accepting charity. So Bob- bie’s Place takes the retail part seriously, logging and bagging items carefully at checkout, just minus the bill. Kids know they’re getting something new but they may not know it’s free. And that’s the beauty and spirit of Bobbie’s Place. Bobbie’s Place, 1243 East 14th St; (718) 677-4399; Visit www.bobbiesplace.org

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ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE THE LAST BROOKLYN FRONTIER Spring 2003 WHERE NEW YORK CITY BEGINS From designing stage sets for Whitney Houston, One of America’s most unique natural Kiss and David Bowie, to creating unforgettable parks sits at the end of Flatbush Ave. (or the backdrops for partiers at Studio 54, Palladium and beginning, depending on your perspective) in the Brooklyn Museum, to producing paintings, the Marine Park neighborhood, a stone’s sculptures and installations, Park Slope resident throw from Kings Plaza, Nick’s Lobster and Mark Ravitz is one reason Brooklyn’s known as an Toys “R” Us. Floyd Bennett Field opened in incubator for the arts. 1931 as New York City’s first municipal air- Born and bred in New York City, Ravitz moved to port. Today, the National Park Service (NPS) Brooklyn in 1972, purchased the building he shares oversees the 1,400-acre parcel of land, part of with wife, Jo Beth (herself an artist) and son, Miles, the Gateway National Recreation Area that and created a space conducive to the life of a family surrounds Jamaica Bay. Floyd Bennett Field man and artist. may take some effort to reach, but it’s worth 4 An aerial view of Floyd Bennett Field When he’s not creating award-winning sets for su- it. You’ll find bike paths, hiking trails, pristine in Marine Park. perstars or exhibits for heavy weights like IBM, Nis- bird-watching areas, and the only year-round 4 Artist Mark Ravitz’s Park Slope house only has eyes for you! san or AT&T, Ravitz follows his own quirky muse, camping in the five boroughs—plus the Aviator Sports and Events Center. even using his 7th Avenue house as a canvas. A series For the first time in 30 years, NPS is revising its general management plan for Floyd called “drips”—bright urethane forms that seem to ooze from the windows—have made Bennett Field. Senator Charles Schumer and Congress Member Anthony Weiner have the building a local landmark. From images of cows and brains to the current installation assembled a blue-ribbon panel, with representatives from Brooklyn and Queens civic called “Four Eyes,” Ravitz animates his art with color and wit. groups, to make recommendations for the park’s future. The large cleared space and in- “I see set design as three-dimensional painting,” said Ravitz. “From the beatnik 50s, hip- tact runways offer unlimited possibilities for events and gatherings—anything from pie 60s and disco 70s, my mind and heart were opened to the variety of expression sur- art/antique fairs to, as crazy as it sounds, drive-in movies—that respect both the park’s rounding me and made a formative impression upon me.” fragile ecosystem and the needs of neighboring communities. That vision is also on display in the drawings and paintings on exhibit in Ravitz’s pop- “It’s the last frontier on the Brooklyn waterfront,” said Robert Pirani, vice president up gallery on 200 7th Avenue. His next exterior installation will be based on a series called for environmental programs at the Regional Plan Association, the group organizing the “Hairy Nests.” advisory panel. “We have a unique opportunity to connect people to a part of Brooklyn You can check out Mark Ravitz’s work by visiting his website: they didn’t know existed.” www.MarkRavitzArtandDesign.com or stop by his studio and home at 200 7th Avenue Gateway National Recreation Area, (718) 338-3799; in Park Slope. www.nyharborparks.org/visit/flbe.html. If you have suggestions regarding the future of Floyd Bennett Field, contact Elizabeth Ernish at [email protected]

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Fall 2008

WWW.BROOKLYN-USA.ORG ᖈᖉ Winter 2010/11

Spring 2003 WORTH THEIR “WAIT” IN WHEREGOLD NEW YORK CITY BEGINS

Name: Moon Leong Name: Giovany Rivera Name: Sasha Teshebaeb Age: 36 Age: 42 Age: 23 Restaurant: Fushimi Japanese Cuisine Restaurant: Queen Restaurant: Scopello Ristorante Bar and Lounge (9316 4th Avenue) (84 Court Street) (63 Lafayette Avenue) Bay Ridge Brooklyn Heights Fort Greene Cuisine: A modern fusion of tradi- Cuisine: Italian Cuisine: Italian tional Japanese with whispers of Lives in: Park Slope Lives in: Brighton Beach French cuisine. Hails from: Honduras Hails from: Kyrgyzstan and Russia Interests/Hobbies: Sasha is a foodie and enjoys eating the Lives in: Sunset Park Interests/Hobbies: Giovany is a big sports en- best, which makes his job at Scopello’s quite convenient. Hails from: Malaysia thusiast; he loves everything from baseball to Other loves are computers and travel, and of course, sports, Interests/Hobbies: Moon enjoys exercising; her favorite football to soccer. hangout is the gym. sports and more sports! Trademark: Giovany’s middle name is “friend- Trademark: Known for her immaculately done nails, Trademark: Known for his practical jokes, Sasha frequently ly;” Giovany even learned to speak Italian so that Moon loves to adorn her tips with crystals. targets his colleagues, but it’s all in good fun! The twinkle he could communicate better with his customers. Why she likes waiting tables: Moon knows her stuff— in his eyes confirms his status as a funny man and an invet- Why he likes waiting tables: Actually, Giovanny she makes sure to be well informed about the specials— erate jokester. serves at the bar, and the only way you can do a job and she prides herself on making great suggestions to her Why he likes waiting tables: Scopello draws people from customers. She gets a kick when customers return because as well as Giovany for as long as he has—18 everywhere, from Italy, Germany, England, France and even of the great recommendations she has made. years—is if you enjoy making people feel good and farther. And that’s what makes Sasha’s job enjoyable; he loves Favorite Dish: Grilled Chilean sea bass with bay scallops seeing them leave as “happy customers.” Giovany meeting the variety of people that come from not only and a sweet and spicy sauce. makes sure that his customers are happy from the Brooklyn, but beyond. Many come before taking in a per- Most interesting/famous person you’ve ever waited on: time they walk in until the time they leave. formance at BAM. Moon’s most interesting customer is the one who comes Favorite Dish: Chicken Scarpariello Favorite Dish: Pennette Alla Norma: pasta with eggplant, the most often. Peter comes with his entire family and Most interesting/famous person you’ve ever fresh tomato and basil, topped with aged ricotta cheese they always order many, many items on the menu. If waited on: Actor Matt Dillon and actress Sarah Most interesting/famous person you’ve ever waited on: Moon is working in the restaurant when Peter and his Jessica Parker. Al Pacino, who ordered the chicken with a straight face. family come, he always asks to sit in Moon’s section.

ᖈᖊ WWW.BROOKLYN-USA.ORG Winter 2010/11

BROOKLYN MOURNS Fall 2008 Karen Barone, former PS 204 PA president and District 20 President’s Council leader • Sally Crane, one of the most active residents of Brooklyn Heights • John Davenport, CB7 member and former president of the 72nd Precinct Community Council • Native Brooklynite Bill Girasole, president of the Bay Ridge-Bensonhurst Preservation Alliance, Brooklyn Dreams Charter School chair and 13th Ave Merchants Association past president • Dorris Gaines Golomb, CB2 committee member, FGA member and Fort Greene preservationist • Robert Makla, long time parks and green spaces proponent as well as avid participant at CB6 and other community events • Marjorie Mills, wife of Lloyd Mills, former CB17 board chair • Anne O’Driscoll, long time advocate of waterfront preservation, past president of the Sheepshead Bay Fish- ing Fleet Assoc., BIG board member and daughter/niece to the founders of the famed Circle Line • Sandy Oquendo, aka “Sandy O,” teacher and jazz enthu- siast who held a Jazz Jam annually before Labor Day in her Park Slope home • Lucy Richards, beloved mother of Deputy Borough President Yvonne Gra- ham • Sylvia Rinaldi, former Democratic district leader of the 49th AD • William “Bill” Saunders, former State Committee member/district leader of the 57th AD • Annlee Tendler, mother of NYC Transit Authority’s Gov/Community Relations director Lois Tendler • Reverend Jorge Vega, founding pastor of the Iglesia Cristiana Manantial de Vida • Reverend Icylee Williams, pastor of Jordan’s Holy Temple • and Monsignor Dino Zini, for- mer pastor of Regina Pacis/St. Rosalia in Dyker Heights and St. Dominic RC Church in Bensonhurst.

WWW.BROOKLYN-USA.ORG ᖈᖋ Winter 2010/11

A JUMP START FOR KIDS AND ART CUPFUL OF LOVE! Spring 2003 WHERE NEW YORK CITY BEGINS One of New York City’s most exciting arts program Two years ago, Josh and Nicolette for kids is easily accessible in Cobble Hill, where artist Sampson decided to create a live/work oa- and educator Marisa Catalina Casey is helping kids sis where friends and fellow artists could “get inspired, get creative and get to work.” hang out in Williamsburg. Casey founded Starting Artists (SA) to engage Since then, the Lovin’ Cup Café and middle and high school students in everything from Cameo Gallery has become a gathering painting to photography to animation, as well as the place where locals enjoy a quaff, eat good business side to art. food—including the popular sliders, made “I want kids to have the tools they need to be cre- from grass-fed beef—and groove to every- ative and entrepreneurial,” said Casey. “As a teen, I thing from pre-big band jazz and ragtime created my own photography project that raised to free-wheelin’ folk and rock ‘n roll. money and made a difference for me and others. I What’s more, the attached Cameo Gallery 4 Gabbi Rutherford is one example want to foster that same spirit of achievement features impromptu exhibits, especially for of how Starting Artists opens the among under-performing students.” up and comers who can’t get representation 4 Nicolette and Josh Sampson created a door to art for kids! lovin’ vibe at their café in Williamsburg. SA afterschool programs serve kids from ages ten in the more traditional art marketplace. to nineteen with sliding fees from $10 to $30 per afternoon. They also offer scholarships “There’s a real sense of community under this roof,” said Josh Sampson. “People say to students in need. the spot has a positive vibe and we really try to nurture that by welcoming the artists and Kids blossom in a welcoming place where they can paint, draw, photograph and even musicians who make this their home away from home.” direct their own videos. At a recent photography exhibit at Papel New York on Court The vibe seems to spill out into the streets, where the couple takes community respon- Street, SA student photographs were even for sale. sibility seriously. Along with some neighbors, they’ve created Make North 6th Green, “SA showed me how to be a professional artist,” said one 15-year-old participant who is and they’ve planted street trees and installed benches and hope to establish a business im- thrilled that Starting Artists exists. provement district (BID). Maybe you can help make sure they continue to exist. SA needs new digs in Boerum Sampson credits Brooklyn with providing just the right mix for a place like the Lovin’ Hill, Cobble Hill, Carroll Gardens, Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, Downtown Brooklyn, Cup Café to succeed. “The best of the best live here,” said Sampson, “and we’re surround- Red Hook, Gowanus, Prospect Heights, Clinton Hill or Ft. Greene. If you know of af- ed by so many gifted and dynamic individuals. But just like a small town, people look out fordable or even donated space, email them at [email protected]. for each other. So Brooklyn really gives you the best of both worlds!” Starting Artists, 211 Smith St; (718) 701-5483; email at [email protected] or Lovin’ Cup Café and Cameo Art Gallery, 93 N. 6th St (btw Berry/Wythe); (718) 302- visit www.startingartists.org 1180; Open Mon-Fri 5pm-2am, Sat/Sun 11:30am-2am; www.thelovincupcafe.com

BETWEEN THE PAGES BUILDING BRIDGES

Crown Heights recently welcomed a ONE PANINI AT A TIME new addition to its growing family of artists, educators, activists and entrepre- Physical bridges carry us over water; the global neurs—Luc Josaphat and Shara Henry, kind can help us understand other nations. Olga the husband and wife owners of Dad- Shraer wants to build bridges with food. dy’s Basement, an independent neigh- Olga’s on Smith may be the only kosher, Jewish- owned eatery in Carroll Gardens, in fact in all of borhood bookstore that has joined Downtown Brooklyn, but Shraer doesn’t serve Brooklyn in reversing the trend of book- latkes, gefilte fish or any of the other familiar store closings. kosher food. But hear this: her food is certified Since opening in September, Daddy’s kosher and there’s a rabbi on site, too. Basement has been a non-stop hub for Olga’s fresh paninis and salads are all made without literary activity: from author appearances, 4 Luc Josaphat and Shara Henry, owners of fleyshik—that’s Yiddish for meat. Since paninis tradi- Open Mic nights, poetry jams and read- Daddy’s Basement in Crown Heights. tionally contain deli meats and pork, Olga replaces ings for children. Beginning in Novem- them with innovative combinations like corn, black ber, Daddy’s Basement launched an ongoing series entitled Emerging Authors partnered beans, cheddar and red onion or fennel, roasted pep- with Medgar Evers College’s Center for Black Literature, featuring Tanya Wright, one of pers, arugula and mozzarella. From fish burgers with the stars of True Blood and author of Butterfly Rises; Ernessa T. Carter, author of 32 Can- chipotle aioli to vegetarian paninis, Olga’s food appeals dles; and Tiphanie Yanique, author of Escape from a Leper Colony, with more to come. In to modern tastes while still comforming to Cholov 4 Olga Shraer is taking kosher food to the next level at Olga’s on Smith. addition, an upcoming Film Series will be kicked off by local filmmaker Bilge Ebiri. Yisroel, the strickest dairy supervision possible. This young, dynamic couple re-energized the community’s love of the arts, making books “I’ve always believed that ‘kosher’ was a certification a “hip” thing to do and making the store a showplace for Brooklyn-based artists. When not a cuisine,” said Shraer. “Food can segregate if we’re not careful. By serving dairy as well as asked about the name, Shara said, “Years ago my father, Paul Anthony Cover Henry, redid strictly non-dairy (parve) in exciting and fresh ways, I believe I bring people together.” our basement. There he would cook, tell us stories and the funniest jokes and play a little Seventy percent of Olga’s customers are observant Jews who make it a destination for music. It became a warm and welcoming community hub. He passed away in 2001. Now kosher, while 30 percent are locals looking for fresh, tasty food close by. So if you think we foster new traditions by creating a new place to gather. A place we can be proud of.” kosher food means knishes, kasha or kugel, you haven’t been to Carroll Gardens, where It certainly is! Olga’s kosher food takes it to the next level! Daddy’s Basement, 327 Rogers Avenue (btw Montgomery and Sullivan); (347)770- Olga’s on Smith Street, 407 Smith St, (btw 4th/5th); Open Mon-Thurs 10am- 8114 or visit www.daddysbasement.webs.com 9:30pm, Fri 10am-3pm, Sun 10am-6pm, closed Sat; (347) 335-0981 or visit www.olgasonsmith.com

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