Star-Revue April 1, 2013 by George Fiala

The

Red Hook StarªRevue

April 1 - 15 2013

SOUTH BROOKLYN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

FREE

Is LICH being sabatoged? by Kimberly Gail Price

We saw this sign on a door at Pier 11 next to the Atlantic Basin. (photo by Fiala)

Project Hope in Red Hook by Kimberly Gail Price n the wake of Hurricane Sandy, the damage was obvious. Many people were affected - not just physical repercussions of with themselves and personal assets - but also mentally and emotionally. Following the hurricane, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) saw the need for a program to address these issues. Using funding from federal grants, they set up a program called Project HOPE in November. In time, they realized the effort would be much longer-term than previously thought. They set up a permanent program at the Catholic Charities of Queens and Brooklyn in downtown Brooklyn. Their services are ministered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Clinical Supervisor for Project HOPE, Mike Phillips was hired to lead and operate the new organization. “The hurricane was a stress factor +1,” he said. “Everybody has a reaction to this; some people need to talk about it.” David Rood-Ojalvo, Mental Health Counselor, said there are issues that people still need to talk about because they are “still feeling effects.” Just after the storm, many were “feeling good about just surviving.” Later they were left with a new feeling of “how do we get back to normal?” he said. “People need to sort

(continued on page 3)

Early in the year, the Comptroller’s office released their annual audit of State University of New York (SUNY), revealing that the state’s largest medical institution was in dire financial straits. For several weeks, SUNY in turn has been faulting Long Island College Hospital (LICH) and immediately took steps to shut down the 150 year old hospital. Local media quickly picked up on the story, faulting LICH’s overwhelming financial troubles since splitting with Continuum Health Partners in 2008. In recent weeks, however, the true nature of SUNY’s own debt has been revealed, suggesting that LICH may in fact be their scapegoat. In addition, SUNY’s partnerships and past decisions are littered with the same suspicious behavior as their most recent curveballs. The Comptroller’s audit, released in midJanuary showed that, even before acquiring LICH in 2011, SUNY was operating at a loss every year from 2007-2010. In 2010, operating losses totaled $49.3 million. The audit reports that SUNY is currently “facing potential insolvency within a matter of months,” and will be forced to make choices about which financial obligations it will honor.” In addition, the report states “while the hospital has hired a consultant to help identify solutions, a full complement of recommendations has not been formulated.” SUNY’s financial statements show a loss of more than $275 million in 2011. “In fact, the financial condition of the hospital has been deteriorating appreciably in recent years,” the audit reveals. Within 90 days of the release of the audit,

(January 17, 2013), SUNY is required to submit steps taken to “implement the recommendations contained herein” to the governor, comptroller and legislature. H. Carl McCall, president of SUNY’s Board of Trustees was appointed by Governor Cuomo, as were many on the board. In fact all members of the Board of Trustees were appointed by the governor, except one - the student representative. The New York State budget went into effect on Monday, March 25. The revised budget excluding additional funds for SUNY, despite the financial crisis that could shut down the medical institution. The budget agreement requires SUNY to submit a restructuring plan by June of this year. Prior to the Comptroller’s audit, SUNY had already initiated an appraisal of LICH’s assets, originally valued at up to $500 million. The hospital is on prime real estate with waterfront views and is currently estimated at $1 billion if the property were completely liquidated. Selling LICH would completely eliminate SUNY’s debt, leaving more than $300 million in unused funds. Despite all of their financial woes SUNY is already revealing plans to open a brand new hospital elsewhere in Brooklyn. Phase 3 of SUNY’s Power Point presentation entitled A Future for Downstate Medical Center states, “Explore the potential of the consortium to develop a new hospital for central/northern Brooklyn.” The initial ground work, of course, involves closing LICH. Meanwhile, the state was considering a bill to allow for-profit a corporation to operate hospitals specifically in Brooklyn. (continued on page 4)

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Red Hook StarªRevue

April 1 - 15 2013

SOUTH BROOKLYN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Happenings

Volume 4 No. 5

Friday, April 5 Table of Contents

The Heights Players opens its run of “Steel Magnolias”, the moving story of the strong ties and bonds formed from a group of southern women, which help them sustain a strong sense of humor even as they are faced with challenging life events. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00pm and Sundays at 2:00pm. Tickets are $15 ($13 for seniors and those under the age of 18). Call for Reservations. 718-237-2752. Show ends April 21.

Community Calendar......... 2 Fairway...................9-16 Happenings ...................... 2 Art review.................. 17 Newsbriefs......................... 4 Spoof/Crossword.. 18,19 Elizabeth Bergin................. 8 Classifieds................. 23

Saturday, April 6

The Waterfront Museum presents its Shipbuilding Workshop, providing both the young and the young at heart the chance to learn about the historical role ships played in the Battle of Brooklyn while trying their hand at building miniature makeshift versions of their own. Taught by artist Eva Melas. 1:00 to 4:00pm. 290 Conover Street, Pier 44.

Staff Kimberly G. Price.......................................Editor/Publisher George Fiala.......................................... Graphics/Publisher Brian Clancy....................................................Theater/Arts Vince Musacchia..................................................Cartoons

Friday, April 12 & 13

Eric Ruff............................................................... Calendar

Rebekah Windmiller’s premiere of “Beholden”, a 40-minute solo interpretive dance which examines the obligations that women face which may be the result of either choice and circumstance. The Cora Theater, 201 Richards Street, Buzzer #15 between Coffey and Van Dyke Streets.

Alliyah Leocadi .........................................................Intern

Contributors

Mary Anne Massaro, Mary Ann Pietanza,

April 19 - 21

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718.624.5568 - Editorial & Advertising 917.652.9128 News Tips 101 Union Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231 editor@redhookstar.com

Down Home Radio Show Host Eli Smith and The Fabulous Jalopy Theatre are proud to announce the 5th Annual Brooklyn Folk Festival coming up on Friday, April 19th through Sunday, April 21st! Come out for three days of music at the Bell House, 149 7th Street, in the heart of Brooklyn’s Gowanus neighborhood. The festival includes performances from more than 30 local and national bands, a variety of instrumental and vocal workshops, folk music related film screenings, a family friendly square dance, and the return of the famous banjo toss competition!

Saturday, May 4

Star-Revue Community Calendar

The Proteus Gowanus Interdisciplinary Gallery presents the Tide Mill Workshop, a chance for families to learn about the little known yet important role tide mills have played throughout Brooklyn’s history. Families also get to work together to build mills of their own. Taught by Angela Kramer Murphy. 1:00 to 4:00pm. 543 Union Street, down the alley off Nevins Street.

The

Community Board 6: All meetings at 6:30 pm

Red Hook StarªRevue SOUTH BROOKLYN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Mon Apr 1 Environmental Protection/Permits & Licenses, Review and discussion of Brooklyn CB6 response to the EPA’s Gowanus Canal Superfund Site’s proposed remedial action plan, as released in December 2012. Presentation and review of a new unenclosed sidewalk cafe permit application submitted to the Department of Consumer Affairs on behalf of LEAHLALA LLC dba Abilene at 442 Court Street (between 3rd Place and 2nd Place) to permit 8 tables and 32 seats. P.S. 32 Samuel Mills Sprole, 317 Hoyt Street, Auditorium

Other Meetings Tuesday, April 2, 6:30 pm: Gowanus Canal Community Advisory Group (CAG) General meeting at Mary Star of Sea Senior Housing, 41 1st Street. Agenda: 1) Agency updates; 2) CAG committee business, including resolutions on EPA Proposed Remedial Action Plan; 3) Other business

GET THE STAR-REVUE BY MAIL! Due to popular request, the Red Hook Star-Revue is now available by mail. Annual subscriptions are only $24. Each issue will be sent directly to your mailbox by the US Postal Service. In less than three years, the Star-Revue has won praise from local and civic leaders for hard hitting coverage of local government, institutions and businesses. From our coverage of the waterfront to local schools and community groups, the Star-Revue casts a beacon on events that make Red Hook the unique Brooklyn community it is. Special Offer! For a limited time, new subscribers will receive both issues from November 2012 that chronicle Hurricane Sandy. These issues have already achieved national recognition and are incredible keepsakes of the tragedy and rebuilding of the Red Hook community. These prized editions will be mailed upon receipt of your $24 subscription payment.

FREE WITH YOUR ORDER: 1 copy each of our first two post Sandy editions. Destined to become collector items.

Thursday, April 4, 6:30 pm: FEMA Draft Flood Maps Forum - Congresswoman Velázquez hosting of meeting with FEMA and NYC on FEMA’s release of draft flood maps at Red Hook Miccio Center, 110 West 9th Street – accessible for Red Hook and Gowanus FEMA will explain its released Advisory Base Flood Elevations (ABFEs) to provide a better picture of current flood risk than the existing Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), and the New York City’s Housing Recovery Office, Department of Buildings, the Special Initiative for Rebuilding and Resiliency and NYC Housing Authority will be there as well for breakouts and discussion. The meeting is of course free and open to the public and please feel free to share, especially with people who want to get a handle on the flood maps/process. And apologies for any cross posting.

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I enclose $________ for my subscription order. Please make checks to the Red Hook Star-Revue. You may also pay by credit card, please write credit card number/type/exp. date and secret code on the back. Credit card orders may also be called in to 718 624-5568, or emailed to subs@RedHookStar.com. Send all mailed-in orders to The Red Hook Star-Revue, 101 Union Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231.

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March 2013

Project Hope helps minds recover from Sandy (continued from page 1)

out their stories. But where do they start?” The program is encountering a lot of people who are confused or distracted. The reality pieces, (damaged property, businesses, equipment and basic needs), versus the emotional pieces, (stress, anxiety and worry),can be very daunting and not so easily overcome. “It’s taking people a long time to recover from that fear,” David says. Project HOPE was created to offer confidential counseling services to

help individuals, families and groups cope after the storm. In a pamphlet the organization created and has been distributing throughout the community, Project HOPE defines the problem. Experiencing strong emotions is a normal reaction to the very unusual life challenges created by Hurricane Sandy. For many, it will be a time to seek support in an effort to move forward – to begin to work through feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility and tasks of reclaiming their lives. Mike explained that reactions of mental stress can be physical as well as emotional. Physical symptoms can include stomach and body aches, changes in sleeping or eating habits and excessive drinking or drug use. Emotional symptoms include quick tempers, an uncertainty about the future, weariness, difficulty communicating thoughts and lack of concentration. Crisis counselors have been dealing with cases involving personal anxiety, fear and the emotional aftermath of the storm. Project HOPE works in conjunction with the NYS Office of Mental Health with the offices in NYC, Nassau, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester counties. Mike and David focus on people in Red Hook, Gowanus, the Columbia Waterfront District and the surrounding areas. They are also available to meet with anyone from any community seeking counseling after the storm. Four counselors from the Red Hook community were hired and trained by the Department of Mental Health in disaster recovery. All four have prior experience in mental health. Two of the counselors are specifically designated to work with families. The Sisters of Good Sheppard Services provide case management.

Talking helps Project HOPE is a strength based initiative that promotes resilience, empowerment, and recovery. Through the organization, people are learning how to prepare themselves both physically and mentally for future disasters. “Talking about their experiences helps

Red Hook Star-Revue

people move past this,” David says. The program is free and anonymous for anyone who participates. No records or case files are created. Counselors do not diagnose or label people. According to Mike, they provide “real individual focus” to give people an opportunity to talk about their experiences and achieve “a new normal.” Their pamphlet reads, “it can help to have someone who listens, who you can talk with, who understands...and cares.” The program is outreach oriented and community based. Services can be provided in homes, businesses, places of worship, shelters, community centers, schools, and even in public meeting spots such as a cafe or restaurant. They offer individual crisis counseling, informational and educational support, group crisis counseling, public education, community networking and support, assessment and referrals to other services. “We want to have meaningful discussions with people,” David says. Project HOPE is designed to strengthen existing community support groups. They can supplement other systems, but are not intended to replace them. They do not provide any psychiatric services, but are able to connect people to additional support as needed. The information brochure emphasizes: Project HOPE helps you move forward by offering confidential support that helps you understand your emotional and physical reactions to the impact of Hurricane Sandy and by providing information so you can examine your options and learn about available resources that can assist you with your recovery. Project HOPE allows up to five visits for any person who has been affected by Hurricane Sandy. Anyone requiring more counseling will be referred to resources like practical and family services.

“unified communities.” Project HOPE helps people develop strategies to manage stress, make decisions and successfully cope. Project HOPE offers “someone to help you feel connected,” he adds.

“There are three possible outcomes. It can be 1) negative; 2) same; or 3) stronger;” David says. “We’re hoping that Red Hook emerges stronger, better able to cope.”

Help Wanted at the Red Hook Star-Revue Reporters needed for news coverage in Red Hook and her environs. Enthusiasm more important than experience. Learn on the job. Full and part-time positions available. Call Kimberly Gail Price

718 624-5568

or email: editor@redhookstar.com

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Red Hook StarªRevue SOUTH BROOKLYN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Interested individuals or parties can call LIFENET and ask for Project HOPE. LIFENET will send a local service provider agency familiar with the individual’s community. The agency will connect to a crisis counselor to arrange a meeting time and place, or can talk on the phone.

Call Mike Crisis counseling services are available in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Russian, Haitian Creole, Arabic, Hebrew and more24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 1-800 LIFENET (543-3638); 1-877 AYUDESE (289-3373) en Espanol; 1-877 990-8585 for Korean and Chinese callers (Mandarin and Cantonese dialects); 1-212 982-5284 for hearing impaired. Crisis counselors speak confidentially about concerns, determine how to best meet needs, offer options and connect people with resources for all facets of recovery. Locally, people interested in Project Hope can call (646) 265-3210 – Mike’s personal cell phone Mike sums up his goals in two words:

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member

@RedHookStar

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April 1 - 15, 2013 Page 3

Christine Quinn appears at Red Hook Civic Association Meeting by Bryan Clancy

(continued from page 1)

The Red Hook Civic Council meets the last Wednesday of the month in the auditorium of PS 15. The February meeting was cancelled because very few people showed up. This month, John McGettrick made sure of a large attendance by inviting City Council Speaker and mayoral candidate Christine Quinn, He also placed flyers on many Van Brunt Street windows advertising the meeting.

The plan would have allowed “no more than two business corporations formed under the business corporations law, one of which shall be the operator of a hospital or hospital in Kings County and one shall be elsewhere in the state. The corporations would be permitted to partner with at least one academic medical institution” - like SUNY, for example.

A good sized crowd did appear, vindicating McGettricks efforts, who said that he plans to invite other mayoral candidates at future meetings. The meeting began with a presentation by 76th Precinct Commander Jeffrey Schiff. He began by thanking the NYC Sanitation Department for their work above and beyond the call of duty helping clean up after Hurricane Sandy. He then recalled last summer’s gang problem which the precinct “crushed.” The next problem his force faced were increasing robberies in Red Hook, Carroll Gardens and Gowanus. Schiff announced 17 robbery arrests over the past few weeks that will result in prosecutions by the DA’s office. The arrests happened because a of a concerted effort by the precinct. He announced no shootings have occurred since November, including Gowanus. The last Red Hook shooting was in the summer of 2012. He continued praising the efforts of the police, noting that robberies were down to two - one on Pioneer and Richards and the other on Columbia and Lorraine. Burglaries were down to 6, from 13 the prior year, and only one case of auto theft. That case was solved with the alleged thief being held in lieu of $20,000 bail. “Crime is down in Red Hook,” he concluded, to applause. Christine Quinn spoke next. She expressed her admiration for the Red Hook community’s response to Hurricane Sandy, calling it ‘the best she had seen anywhere in New York.” She announced a need for infrastructure improvements, including flood protection barriers, more resilient buildings, and a study by the Army Corps of Engineers.

Captain Schiff

A woman in the audience complained to her about unsatisfactory response from outside the community, and Quinn condemned the federal government’s response, saying they must do better. The floor was opened to questions. Someone asked for her help in preventing the EPA from depositing toxic sludge in Red Hook. Another asked who she would make police commissioner were she elected mayor. Lou Sones asked how people with private homes will be able to comply with new building standards in the wake of the new flood plain map. Quinn said these questions were currently being considered by the City Council. Sones also complained about zoning issues that were preventing Red Hook from regenerating without gentrification. Someone else asked Quinn’s help in saving LICH. Quinn was unaware of some of these issues, but said she would follow up on all of them. After her departure, it was announced that a Nurse’s Union rally would be held in Coffey Park on April 7th at 1 pm with a march ending at LICH to protest SUNY Downstate’s decision to close the hospital. Some people got up to praise the editorial in the current issue of the Star-Revue, which was distributed at the meeting. Civic Association meetings are the last Wednesday of the month. The next meeting is scheduled for April 27th, in the PS 15 auditorium

Dance Theatre Etcetera holds fundraiser at Brooklyn Crab

Kimberly Gail Price poses with Alison Toci at the DTE fundraising event held Thursday, March 21. Price is the editor and publisher of the Red Hook Star-Revue, and Toci is now President of City Parks Foundation, after a long and successful career with Time Out NY magazine. (photo by Fiala)

Page 4 Red Hook Star-Revue

LICH sabatoge

immediately appointed as one of the 27 members of the Medicaid task force to confront what a February 22, 2011 NY Times article calls “crucial decisions, including how to overhaul New York’s $53 billion Medicaid program.” In this same article, NYT also notes, “The influence Mr. Sachs has been wielding since Mr. Cuomo’s election on Nov. 2 has startled some in the state’s tight-knit health care world.”

In February 2011, NYT reported that “Mr. Sachs advised Mr. Cuomo on administration appointments and health care policies during a period when state offiAnother Power Point presentation, en- cials made decisions that were favorable titled SUNY Hospitals& a Healthier to Mr. Sachs’ clients.” Former executive New York: Capital Briefing on page 14 director of the state lobbying commisshows the outstanding debt of the of sion, David Grandeau - also quoted in the their hospitals on January 31, 2013: article - said, “The bigger question is the optics of what it looks like to the govSince the State Senate has taken the have ernor’s good friend confor-profit institutions off of the table, sulting for an industry that he is charged the question remains as to whether by the govor not Cuomo will recommend DOH to ernor to help reform, or change.”

close down LICH or keep it viable for the south Brooklyn

Downstate - $191,329,000; Stony Brook - $187,542,000; Upstate - $ 251,818,000. This is in stark contrast to building a brand new facility. At the time, LICH’s real estate was appraised up to $5 million, but these figures account for $630,689,000 of debt. Since SUNY has continually proven to be irresponsible with their finances, it seems only logical that the state does not continue to hand them millions in grants. By not supporting them, Governor Cuomo is making a very strong statement to their management. He is holding SUNY responsible for their dollar woes. But he is also jeopardizing LICH’s existence because they are still under SUNY’s care. “It makes sense, before you plunk more down money, you come up with a plan that works,” Cuomo said. Jeffery Sachs, a previous advisor to Governor Cuomo’s campaign, also runs a business called Sachs Consulting. His clients include several major New York Hospitals, most notably, Brooklyn Hospital Center. Sachs was an advisor to Governor Cuomo in 2011 during the merger between LICH and SUNY. State grants to sustain LICH were frozen, delaying the merger, endangering the hospital’s survival. The freeze was quickly lifted when local politicians put pressure on Cuomo to reverse the decision. Some speculate that Sachs may have been behind the withholding of promised funds to the medical institutions. The delay of the grants had one obvious beneficiary; Brooklyn Hospital, one of Sachs’ clients would absorb the majority of LICH’s patients - if LICH were to close. Sachs was explicit in his arguments against the grants. He felt they were a mistake, and the state should find a more effective method to financing hospitals in Queens and Brooklyn. When Cuomo was elected, Sachs was

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Although Sachs is no community. longer a part of the Medicaid task force, he still may have a reasonable amount of influence with Cuomo. Sachs served as an usher in Cuomo’s wedding in 1990. He is the godfather to the governor’s daughter. He is known as “Andrew’s best friend” in Albany. And he was a major supporter during Cuomo’s campaign. Joseph Belluck, partner at Belluck and Fox personal injury law firm , replaced Jeffery Sachs on the governor’s Medicaid Redesign Team in 2012. He is also a trustee on the board of SUNY Belluck has donated more than $290,000 to New York candidates since 2008. Nearly $22,000 in 2008 and another $34,000 in 2009 of those funds were donated to Cuomo. In the 2013 state budget, Governor Cuomo proposed a pilot program to “assist in the restructuring of health care delivery systems” by allowing for increased capital investment in facilities to be accomplished through the establishment of two business corporations - one in Brooklyn and the other in a different part of the state. Testimony and other legislative action by nurses led to the for-profit plan being pulled off the table. One community activist, “Skipp” Roseboro wrote, “Governor Cuomo, you’re closing our hospitals because you say the cost is not sustainable; have you calculated how much more economic cost and human loss might be associated with each closing?...While how much soda I ingest may harm or kill me in decades, having to pass one or two closed hospitals during a heart attack may kill me tonight. While your limiting my smoking may extend my life for years, the lack of a near-by hospital may cost me my life this afternoon. While extra City trees and Green Roofs are pretty and of some value, a pregnant mother in distress and her unborn child may never survive to see them if she is forced to travel 20 to 50 extra blocks in (continued on next page)

April 1 - 15, 2013

LICH sabatoge (continued from previous page)

search of emergency care. A legacy built on soda, cigarettes and trees won’t overshadow the harm and deaths caused by allowing this continued destruction of our hospital system.” Repeating his history of appointing his affluent friends to positions of power, Cuomo has a brand new line up this year. Cuomo is urging Henry Silverman, a multimillionaire investor, for a position on the Javis Center/New York Convention Center Operating Corporation. Since 2006, Silverman has donated $130,900 to Cuomo. Laura Aswad has been chosen to serve another term on the State Council of Arts. she has donated $93, 816 to Cuomo since 2009. More than 20 others are also nominated by Cuomo and are awaiting state Senate approval. On March 26, 2013 the NY Times reported that for-profit investments in two state hospitals have been removed from the state budget. A spokesman for Governor Cuomo, Robert Azzopardi said, “We continue to have an interest in exploring this and any other option that will promote access to capital for the improvement of health care facilities.” In mid March, Senator Charles Schumer, along with other House and Senate members, reintroduced the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2013 in both chambers of Congress. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, the country is expecting a shortage

Red Hook Star-Revue

of more than 91,000 primary care physicians, surgeons and medical specialists by the year 2020. One in seven doctors in the country is trained in New York. SUNY is the largest medical training facility in the state; LICH has operated as a training facility for resident doctors. “Congress should pass this important piece of legislation so that our teaching hospitals can accommodate more residency positions,” Schumer said. In late March, Governor Cuomo did not approve any additional funding for SUNY. With their crippling debt and without state support, SUNY is left on the brink of disaster. If SUNY loses their state funding and LICH remains with them, SUNY could take LICH down too. If LICH can find another operator who is really willing to take on the challenges LICH faces and can get things turned around, then the hospital could survive. The question remains: will LICH be able to do that before the governor decides to go ahead with the for-profits in the coming years? It’s a business deal and Cuomo’s a business man. Governor Cuomo has shown tendencies to favor those who heavily donate to his causes. With a potential for-profit health care facility intended in Brooklyn, and LICH on the brink of bankruptcy, the situation is perfect for an institution like SUNY to jump into the mix. Almost every one of their trustees is, after all, appointed by the governor. Since the State Senate has taken the for-profit institutions off of the table, the problem of whether or not Cuomo will instruct DOH to close down LICH or keep it viable for the south Brooklyn community lingers. Maybe he sits on it until the perfect scenario is fully ripe. Or maybe he

Cuomo (r) and Sachs, in a 2006 photo. (photo courtesy NY Times)

turns the property over for real estate development. If he is vying for future presidency - or even keeping his seat as governor - will he risk going against the unions? He might let SUNY starve and take LICH down with them if LICH cannot find another operating firm before funds are approved for the institution. The Department of Health (DOH) has not announced a timeline yet for when they will be making a decision regarding the closing of LICH. To date, they have remained mysteriously quiet about their intentions. As an arm of the governor, perhaps they are awaiting his recommendation. Department of Health Commissioner, Dr. Nirav Shah was also appointed by Cuomo. The decision surrounding LICH’s survival become more complicated as more facts reveal themselves. “Is there enough money and legal willingness (which equals

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money) around to pursue this to its correct conclusion?” asks Toomas M. Sorra, MD and president for Concerned Physicians of LICH. “We are at a point right now where there are not enough hospitals left in New York City to deal with a mass civilian trauma event, natural disaster or epidemic,” NY Pop Culture & Politics blogged on February 12, 2013. Even so, LICH may end up being sold out despite the resounding evidence that south Brooklyn needs these services. It may all come down to what Cuomo’s powerful appointees - especially Sachs are whispering in his ear. Update: On April 1, 2013, Judge Johnny Lee Baynes issued another restraining order, this time against DOH in addition to SUNY to prevent either group form taking action towards the closure of LICH. The next hearing is scheduled for May 2, 2013.

April 1 - 15, 2013 Page 5

EDITORIAL:

All of a sudden people want to visit

eems like a lot of people are loving Red Hook lately. This probably has something to do with all the publicity we’ve gotten since Sandy. There’s an adage about there being no such thing as bad publicity. It’s mostly a true saying, but let’s hope that this kind of publicity is a once-in-a lifetime event.

water is to the left; all of a sudden it’s in the front - where’s the bus - things like that. We didn’t know.

The attention is warranted. The NY Times, Fairway and Homeland are not the only ones who love Red Hook. You love living here. We love being part of the fabric of this diverse and fascinating community. There is a real history here, one you can see wherever you go. Water on three sides. The melting pot makes life interesting and cosmopolitan. The amazing sunsets are... simply amazing. The view has been great even before they put up that Liberty statue. The working class and the artists - the artisans and the stockbrokers - they can all be found on our streets.

These past three years we’ve been bringing you the Red Hook Star-Revue has been the best years of your publishers lives.

When we began this paper, we were not that far removed from tourists. We avoided Red Hook for decades, mostly due to the BQE stigma. Maybe we ventured here for an occasional trip to Lillies or the Waterfront Museum, or later on, the 360 Restaurant, but it was always a bit confusing. The streets are not like Park Slope or Boerum Hill, first the

Three years ago, we finally moved here. We were amazed at what we saw. To be truthful, we couldn’t figure out why such a unique community didn’t have its own newspaper. This is where the stories are.

Next weekend, we travel up to Saratoga Springs for the annual convention of the New York State Press Association. This is the trade organization for NY’s community newspapers. We meet our kindred spirits who toil away throughout the far reaches of the state. This includes city papers, suburban papers and even farm country papers. Around this time last year we wrote in these pages of our pride at being accepted to this venerable association. We attended our first convention. As newbies, we were not allowed to enter their competition, where newspaper excellence is recognized. This year, we spent two weeks in January carefully preparing our entries. In our next issue we will report on the results. The common bond of all these papers is service to the community. This

is grassroots journalism. This is where young writers, editors and advertising salespeople get their chops. Many move on to bigger weekly’s and daily newspapers around the country. Community newspapers do not pay the wages that the bigger papers do. In exchange, we are learning incubators for aspiring professionals. As publishers, we both wish for and rue the day that someone we’ve watched grow, and have grown to depend on, leave for greater glory.

Kimberly Gail Price and George Fiala, taken last October just before the hurricane.

As publishers, this is our glory. Many community papers, (like ours) are mom and pops. It is where dreams are lived. Being a small town publisher is not a bad deal. We are a part of an industry that upholds these precious words, just the same way as the NY Times: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. We want to say in advance that any

recognition we may receive is not just a testament to a small band of dedicated journalists. It will be a testament to the amazing community that we are privileged to write about. It is a testament to the grassroots business owners – people who come to our little village to achieve their dreams, be it carpentry, serving ribs and lobsters, creating art and music. People who care enough about their neighborhoods to demand justice for public housing, for city services, for rational economic development. Writing about what you - our readers -are up to, is the biggest joy, and for that we offer our greatest thanks.

Op Ed: NYSUT calls on parents to sign petition on standardized testing

ew York State United Teachers launched a statewide public campaign asking parents to join teachers in opposing the state’s use of new, hastily implemented standardized tests for high-stakes decisions affecting students and teachers. For months, the statewide union has been pressing the State Education Department to acknowledge teachers’ growing concerns with the state’s rocky implementation of new Common Core learning standards and new standardized tests that students must take in April. While NYSUT supports the “potential” of the new Common Core learning standards and fully embraces the principle of accountability for students and educators, two-thirds of teachers said in a poll that their students lacked textbooks and materials aligned with the state’s new standards. Even worse, many teachers say students will be tested next month on material that has not yet been taught, with the state still distributing materials and guidance to teachers as late as last month. Education Commissioner John King Jr. and U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, among others, have acknowledged student test scores will plummet — likely up to 30 percent — yet New York is still permitting the scores to be used to unfairly labeling students and measure teacher effectiveness. “Teachers have repeatedly urged the State Education Department and Regents to use this year’s tests to measure the state’s progress in implementing the

Page 6 Red Hook Star-Revue

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Common Core, not for high-stakes decisions affecting students and teachers,” said NYSUT President Richard C. Iannuzzi. “They aren’t listening.” Iannuzzi said that, after months of intense efforts to get State Education Department leaders to acknowledge the specific and documented concerns voiced by teachers statewide, the union decided to take the issue public. NYSUT is taking out full-page print and on-line ads in leading upstate newspapers this week calling on parents to unite in a strong push-back against the state’s overreliance on standardized testing. The print and on-line ads link to a parent petition that will also be shared locally and via social media. Both the ads and petition can be found at www.nysut.org. Thousands of teachers have already written letters to the commissioner and Board of Regents detailing implementation problems and the tremendous stress placed on students by unrelenting standardized testing. NYSUT is delivering the letters to policymakers on a daily basis as part of a “Tell it Like it Is” campaign. “Teachers are speaking forcefully and eloquently on the harmful impact of too many tests, given too frequently and without giving teachers and schools adequate time to prepare students,” said NYSUT Vice President Maria Neira. “We know parents share teachers’ concerns about the state’s obsession with standardized testing. This petition gives parents a way to add their voices to the

concerns teachers have been voicing and thousands of layoffs — has been insince early fall. Students and teachers consistent, with delays and confusion at feel they are being set up for failure.” both the state and school district level. In the union’s open letter to parents, In a poll of 1,600 New York teachers Iannuzzi said, “No experienced teacher outside New York City conducted earwould test students on material before lier this school year regarding their experiences with the implementation of the Common Core learning standards and “New York is going too far tests, two-thirds said they are being pressured to move too fast to teach the new and too fast with its testing standards, while 65 percent said their students lacked access to textbooks and regimen, and the system materials aligned to the new standards. Mid-way through the school year, more is nearing the point of than three quarters of teachers said parents were not aware of the impact of the implosion,” new Common Core standards on their children, or aware to a “low degree.” it’s been taught – and yet that’s the sce- “New York is going too far and too fast nario the state has created in its rush to with its testing regimen, and the system roll out new standardized tests.” The let- is nearing the point of implosion,” Neira ter adds, “Too many students have not said. “How are parents going to react been taught the material for a whole new when test scores fall off a cliff and their set of challenging standardized tests in children are wrongly labeled? What is math and English Language Arts.” going to be the impact on public educaNeira said NYSUT has pressed the State Education Department and Regents to allow time for school districts and teachers to thoughtfully implement the Common Core; for a reduction in the number and length of standardized tests; and for the state to evaluate the financial cost and instructional time lost to standardized testing. Neira said teachers have been clear that the department’s roll-out of the new standards and tests — under a backdrop of painful state and local budget cuts

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tion and educators?” Neira said. “We are fighting to have common sense prevail. Students and teachers need the time and resources to do this right.” NYSUT, the state’s largest union, represents more than 600,000 teachers, school-related professionals, academic and professional faculty in higher education, professionals in education and health care and retirees. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association and the AFL-CIO.

April 1 - 15, 2013

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April 1 - 15, 2013 Page 7

The Good Friday Processions

Carroll Gardens: Sacred Hearts and St. Stephen Church

t. Stephen’s annual Good Friday procession is an Italian funeral demonstration held on the streets just before dusk. People gather on the sidewalks to witness the event. An Italian funeral band plays. Mourners walking in the procession are dressed in black, carrying candles and singing Italian hymns. Cameras flash; the crowd speaks in hushed voices. The body of Christ and Mother Mary, Our Lady of Sorrows, emerge into the streets. The procession claims its roots from Mola di Bari, Italy. St. Stephen’s held its first processional in 1948. Every year on Good Friday, the reenactment hoists the beloved statues into the air and carries them through the streets of Carroll Gardens. The statuary symbols represent the steps of Christ to his final resting place. The church incorporates two of its most beloved statues into the event. The body of Jesus lies in a glass coffin, carried on the shoulders of his devotees. Mother Mary follows in the procession as the light casts shadows on her face and the dagger through her heart that represents the prophecy of Simeon the Righteous. She is dressed in black and followed by devotees called the Sisters of the Congrega Maria SS Addolorata. The final death of Christ is marked by his body meeting at the feet of his mother three times. This past Good Friday, spectators gathered on the streets and in the procession to accompany the funeral procession. Many were active members of St Stephen’s. Others were folks who had moved further away, but still come out to watch every year. And others were brought into the streets by mere curiosity. The procession lasted for more than two hours; onlookers stood reverently by until the last moments when the holy statues were carried back into the church.

By Kimberly Gail Price and George Fiala Page 8 Red Hook Star-Revue

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April 1 - 15, 2013

The Good Friday Processions

Red Hook: Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary On Easter weekend, Visitation Church held their annual Good Friday processional. The walk began just outside of the church into the streets and through the parks. Father Claudio observed each of the fourteen stations of the cross both in Spanish and English. A crowd gathered around and followed as the procession wound its way from the Church through Coffey Park over to the Red Hook Houses. Music also accompanied the procession. 14 Stations of the Cross 1. Jesus is Condemned to Die 2. Jesus is Made to Bear His Cross 3. Jesus Falls the First Time 4. Jesus Meets His Mother 5. Simon Helps Jesus Carry His Cross 6. Veronica Wipes Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Face 7. Jesus Falls the Second Time 8. Jesus Meets the Women of Jerusalem 9. Jesus Falls the Third Time 10. Jesus is Stripped 11. Jesus is Nailed to the Cross 12. Jesus Dies on the Cross 13. Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross 14. Jesus is Laid in the Tomb

We are across from Coffey Park (718) 923-9880

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Red Hook History

Fort Defiance - maps tell the story by Bob Furman

eneral Israel Putnam came to New York on April 4, 1776 to assess the state of its defenses and strengthen them. Among the works initiated were forts on Governor’s Island and Red Hook, facing the bay. On April 10, one thousand Continentals took possession of both points and began constructing Fort Defiance which mounted one three pounder cannon and four eighteen pounders. The cannons were to be fired over the tops of the fort’s walls. During May, Washington described it as “small but exceedingly strong.” On July 5, General Nathanael Greene called it “a post of vast importance,” and three days later, Col. Varnum’s regiment joined its garrison. The only depiction of Fort Defiance is on a map drawn by George Sproule, a Loyalist engineer in the British Army. It is entitled “Map of the Environs of Brooklyn,” and was drawn in 1776 to 1780. Since it is a military map, unlike the Ratzer map, it is topographical, i.e. it shows the elevations of the land shown. As such it shows the hills and swamps of Brooklyn. The original map is in the possession of the Clements Library of the University of Michigan. Mr. Clements purchased the map from the descendents of Gen. Sir Henry Clinton, the British commander in New York and then of all of North America in the 1920s. He donated it to the library he endowed in the 1930s. A full-size copy of the map is in the possession of the Brooklyn Collection in the Central Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library on Grand Army Plaza. The Fort Defiance complex actually consisted of three redoubts on a small island connected by trenches, with an earthwork (Figure 3) on the island’s south side to defend against a landing. The entire earthwork was about sixteen hundred feet long and covered the entire island. The three redoubts covered an area about four hundred by eight hundred feet. The two principal earthworks were about one hundred fifty by one hundred seventy-five feet, and the tertiary one was about seventy-five by one hundred. In his A History of the City of Brooklyn, Henry Stiles quoted a June 11, 1776 letter written by an American major, Samuel Shaw, to his family (note that Sproule shows “Van Dyke’s Mill”): I am now stationed at Red Hook, about four miles from New York. It is on an island, situated in such a manner as to command the entrance of the harbor entirely, where we have a fort with four 18 pounders, to fire en barbette, that is, over the top of the works, which is vastly better than firing through embrasures, as we can now bring all our guns to bear on the same object at once. The fort is named Defiance. It is thought to be one of the most important posts we have. There are two families here-- Mr. Van Dyke and his son--good, staunch Whigs, and very clever folks, between whom and our people a very pleasant intercourse subsists. I rode out with the young man, about a week ago, to a place

Page 10 Red Hook Star-Revue

Figure 3 The Ratzer Map is the best-known colonial-era map of Brooklyn. It was drawn in 1766. Note that the term “Red Hook” applied to the point that stuck out into the harbor.

called flushing, sixteen miles off; where, and in most of the country towns about, the Tories from the city have taken shelter. It is almost incredible how many of these vermin there are. Scarce a house we rode by, but Mr. Van Dyke would say, ‘There lives a rascally Tory.’ (Quincy’s Memorial of Samuel Shaw). Shaw described the forts’ site as an island, and Stiles takes vigorous issue with this assessment. It appears, however, based on the Sproule map, that Shaw was correct. There was a channel between the teardrop-shaped island where Fort Defiance was located, and the rest of Red Hook. “Van Dyke’s Mill” is also shown on the Sproule Map. On July 12, the British frigates Rose, Phoenix and the schooner Tyrol ran the gauntlet past Defiance and the stronger Governor’s Island works without firing a shot, and got all the way to Tappan Zee, the widest part of the Hudson River. They stayed there for over a month, beating off harassing attacks, and finally returned to Staten Island on August 18. It would appear that gunfire from Fort Defiance did damage to the British ships. Samuel Shaw wrote to his parents on July 15: General Howe has arrived with the army from Halifax, which is encamped on Staten Island. On Friday, two ships and three tenders, taking advantage of a brisk gale and strong current, ran by our batteries, up the North River where they at present remain. By deserters we learn that they sustained considerable damage, being hulled in many places, and very much hurt in their rigging. So great was their hurry, that they would not stay to return our salute, though it was given with much cordiality and warmth; which they seemed very sensible of, notwithstanding their distance, which was nearly two miles. On August 26, in support of the British advance that led to the Battle of Brooklyn, their navy attempted to run a squadron of five ships up the Hudson, but four were forced to retire by contrary winds. The Roebuck approached the fort, was fired upon, and retired. Admiral Lord Richard Howe wrote of this episode (quote in Stiles): Being informed the next day (26th) by Gen. Howe of his intention to advance with army that night to the enemy’s lines, and of his wishes that some diver-

sion might be attempted by the Ships on this side, I gave direction to Sir Peter Parker for proceeding higher up into the channel towards the town of New York next morning, with the Asia, Renown, Preston (Com. Hotham embarked in the Phoenix having been left to carry on the service in Gravesend Bay), Roebuck and Repulse, and to keep those ships in readiness for being employed as such occasion might require; but the wind veering to the northward soon after the break of day, the ships could not be moved up to the distance proposed: therefore, when the troops under Gen. Grant, forming the column of the army, were seen to be engaged with the enemy in the morning, the Roebuck, Capt. Hammond, leading the detached squadron, was the only ship that could fetch high enough to the northward to exchange a few random shots with the battery on Red Hook; and the ebb making strongly down the river soon after, I ordered the signal to be shown for the squadron to anchor.

The only way to commemorate the forts has always been to place a plaque where they were, but there has always been confusion as to their location. Because Red Hook was reconfigured so soon after the revolution, no physical reference points have existed since urbanization began to determine the site. The location has been described as Conover and Coffey Streets, Conover and Van Dyke, and by Robin Roberts in New York’s Forts in the Revolution, as Dwight and Beard. A bronze tablet, now gone, was placed on a Todd Shipyards building at Dwight and Beard in 1952 to commemorate the fort. Those who planned commemoration did not use the available maps to determine its location. Using the Robinson Brooklyn Atlas for 1880, which shows the pre-urban shoreline along with the modern streets, the Sproule Map and the enlargement and reduction functions on a modern copier, the author determined its location to have been west of Ferris Street, between Dikeman and Coffey Streets, with the additional unit at Coffey between Ferris and Conover, about one avenue block away. Given the distinctive teardrop shape of the island, which may have been called “Cypress Tree Island,” this was an easy task. A large-scale blowup of the appropriate area of Sproule, to the same scale as Robinson, indicates a large fortified area covering most of the island, east to Van Brunt Street and south to Reid. The case for Ferris Street is strengthened by the real estate map prepared for the sale of the Van Dyke property in 1834 (Figure 8) which appears in Volume 10 of the County Clerk’s Copied Maps. It shows Johnson & Howell’s

A look at the Ratzer Map indicates where a fort would be built: at Red Hook’s seaward leaning edge, where it could dominate the Upper Bay, and this is where Fort Defiance is shown on the Sproule map. Robert Roberts in his New York’s Forts in the Revolution, 1982, gives the name of the second, the The County Clerk’s “Copied Map” of the Van Dyke property in more south- 1834. erly one on the Sproule map, as Smith’s Barbette, but Powder House at the site of Fort Defithis is also a name give to the Cobble ance when Red Hook’s urbanization Hill Fort. Given the tendency at the was just getting underway. time to give sites several names, it is The fact that the Van Dyke family impossible to make a judgment. A 1777 is mentioned in Shaw’s diary, on the freehand sketch of the defenses from Ratzer Map and on the 1834 property the Stiles Diary also shows the second map establishes that they owned the earthwork. land sometimes called “Cypress Tree Is-

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land” from the 1700s until 1834.

April 1 - 15, 2013

Hours: Noon to 10:30 pm Tues. to Thurs. Noon to 11pm Friday. 4pm to 11pm Saturday & 4pm to 10:30pm Sunday.

Answer to previous puzzle

The

Red Hook StarªRevue

crossword

Star-Revue Puzzler #27 by George Fiala Across

Add local media to your marketing plan. we will show you how advertising in The Red Hook Star-Revue can lead to increased profits. Call today

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Red Hook Star-Revue

1. Zeppelin’s first name 4. Obama’s are caricatured 8. Strikebreaker 12. Alert and careful 13. Trip through the galaxy 14. Word with bear or bi 16. U2 musician 17. In Red Hook this comes by water 18. Southern LA brew 19. 70’s Brit rockers 20. Below 21. Burger or computer 23. Between with and wind 24. Double masted ship 26. Alejandro or Del 28. Federal agency for nukes 30. Kind of belly 32. Related 36. Sow chow 39. They come in pairs 41. Gambling game 42. Ten make a strike 43. Holy words 45. Utmost 46. Amo, ___, amat 48. Pairs 49. Cardinals play here (abbr) 50. Hawaian goose 51. Computer connector 52. Human scan 54. Beginning for angle or age 57. Played up 61. Parisian friend 64. Package carrier 66. ____ generis 68. Compass point 69. Design 71. Blubbered 73. ___ __ dry eye in the house 74. French goodbye 75. Part of the eye

Down

1. Dish out 2. Plant fungus 3. Color 4. “___ __ Brutus” 5. Mideasterner 6. King of old 7. Kind of milk 8. Women need this 9. Corn grows in this

10. 11. 12. 15. 20. 22. 25. 27. 29. 30. 31. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38.

Landed Alternative to shower Starts with Sunday Norma ____ That girl What painters make They want to do this to the Gowanus Speak incessantly Ticket writer, briefly Kind of shrimp Norwegian port Superman in glasses Worldwide (abbr) Lower Manhattan community Longevity Key Steve uses this Biblical figure with no kids

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40. 44. 47. 49. 51. 53. 55. 58. 59. 60. 61. 62. 63. 65. 66. 67. 72. 73.

Movie star dog Postgraduate degree Clump of games in tennis Pigs live here “Don’t give me no ___” Local institution Loudon’s son Roselike flower Legally bar James or Martin Doctor’s organization Pie can come a la ____ “Put ___ __ writing” Did watery laps Kind of sheet Orin Hatch’s state Braun or Little An old horse

April 1 - 15, 2013 Page 11

A Spotlight on Brooklyn Collective, one of Columbia Street’s Gems

n artist’s oasis lies along Columbia Street, open to all those whose curiosity is strong enough to warrant a peek inside. Visitors are welcomed by intricate pieces of artwork. The shop houses treasures that are made by creative minds, ones that cannot be found anywhere else. This is Brooklyn Collective.

know if their work is selling well, Rachel explains. “When we like somebody’s work, we want them to showcase what their excited about,” added Tessa.

Brooklyn Collective began eight and a half years ago on Columbia Street. The two founders, Rachel Goldberg and Tessa Williams met at Union Max, a thrift store located around the corner. Rachel was running the thrift store with her mother and sister. She was a jewelry designer; Tessa was a clothing designer. Both wanted a space to exhibit their The inside of Brooklyn Collective reminds one of a gallery. (Fiala photo) work. After meeting at Union Max, they started talking about how to turn their on it,” she said. We didn’t see nearly as as well as pocket 100% of the profit from ideas into a reality. much foot traffic as we see now. It’s much their work - which most galleries do not “We would get together and brainstorm busier now and there are a lot more art- allow. Instead, they operate financially for how we could make something like ists and young families here now, though with the curation of their own art. that work because we were both trying there have always been a lot of artists in Tessa says, “Rachel and I make our profto sell to other shops, which can be very Red Hook,” she says. it off of our own work that we sell. Badaunting. We wanted to create a space The two agree that since they have sically, everybody’s contribution allows that was a little more open-minded [by] opened the Columbia Waterfront Dis- the place to stay open. That covers our showcasing things that we wanted to trict was nothing like it is today. “I think overhead and our costs.” make and that we wanted people to see,” it’s a fully grown neighborhood. I’m kind Another unique feature of Brooklyn said Tessa. of tired of hearing the words up and com- Collective is the consultation process The two chose Red Hook because they ing because it has been up and coming that Rachel and Tessa go through with were locals, although Tessa is originally in papers for fifteen years. The thing is, their artists. They assist in creating the from New Hampshire. “It’s our neighbor- there is a fully grown community here. “ space each artist’s work showcased in, hood,” Rachel said enthusiastically. Rachel says. as well as offering guidance and feedWhen the shop opened in August 2004, In addition to Tessa and Rachel’s collec- back. “They have the freedom to do the neighborhood was still growing action, Brooklyn Collective also showcases what they want with their space, but we cording to Tessa. “At the time, this other artists’ work. The relationship be- definitely give them guidance on what street - Columbia Street - was very bar- tween the owners and their featured artists is working and what we think is a good ren; there weren’t that many businesses is unique. The artists can showcase freely direction for them. Also we let them

Musical highlights for August:

So far, the two have showcased more than 250 artists. Every three months new artists are selected. Some artists have the opportunity to renew their contracts. Several artists and designers have been showcasing with the duo since the shop’s beginning. “If it works for people, they have the option to renew and stay on,” Tessa said. Quality is what matters most to Rachel and Tessa. If they see potential in the work, they are more willing to showcase it. Quantity is also important; the artists and designers must be able to fill their spaces. “We’ve told jewelers who have had only three pieces, ‘you need to have enough to fill an entire collection and something to promote your work and showcase yourself so it stands out and you can be successful’,” explains Tessa. Two years ago, Brooklyn Collective moved just down the block on Columbia Street into a larger venue. Since then, they have been able to showcase more artists, as well as increasing business. The amount of space and the location have been key factors in their success. “We have grown with the business and with the neighborhood,” Rachel proudly said. Tessa and Rachel have combined art and retail in a very memorable way. Everyone that visits gets a warm smile and glimpse at a very unique collaboration. For all things fashionable and creative, Brooklyn Collective deserves a look.

718 624-5568

Page 12 Red Hook Star-Revue

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April 1 - 15, 2013

Star-Revue

Guide to area restaurants

Red Hook BAKED 359 Van Brunt St., (718)222-0345.

THE BROOKLYN ICE HOUSE 318 Van Brunt St., (718) 222-1865. Botanica 220 Conover St (at Coffey St), (347) 225-0147. DEFONTE’S SANDWICH SHOP 379 Columbia St., (718) 855-6982. F&M BAGELS 383 Van Brunt St., (718) 855-2623. FORT DEFIANCE 365 Van Brunt St., (347) 453-6672. THE GOOD FORK 391 Van Brunt St., (718) 643-6636. HOME/MADE 293 Van Brunt St., (347) 223-4135. HOPE & ANCHOR 347 Van Brunt St., (718) 237-0276. IKEA One Beard St., (718) 246-4532. MARK’S PIZZA 326 Van Brunt St., (718) 624-0690. New Lin’s Garden Restaurant 590 Clinton Street, (718) 399-1166 RED HOOK LOBSTER POUND 284 Van Brunt St., (646) 326-7650. ROCKY SULLIVAN’S 34 Van Dyke St., (718) 246-8050.

Ghang, 229 Court Street, 718-875-1369 Hana cafe, 235 Smith Street, (718) 6431963 Le Petite Cafe, 502 Court street, 718596-7060 Ling Ling Young, 508 Henry Street, (718) 260-9095 Marco Polo Ristorante, 345 Court Street, 718 852-5015 Mama Maria’s Restaurant, 307 Court Street, (718) 246-2601 Mezcals Restaurant, 522 Court Street, 718-783-3276

Natures Grill, 138 Court street, 718852,5100, Nine-D, 462 Court Street, 718-488-8998, Oaxaca Tacos, 251 Smith Street (718) 222-1122 Osaca Restaurant, 272 Court Street (718) 643-0055 P J Hanleys, 449 Court St, 718- 843-8223 Palo Cortado, 520 Court St, 718-4070047 Prime Meats, 465 Court Street, 718254-0327 or 0345, Palmyra, 316 Court street, 718-7971110 Red Rose Restaurant, 315 Smith Street, (718) 625-0963 Sals Pizza, 305 Court Street, (718) 852-6890 Sam’s Restaurant, 238 Court Street, 718-596-3458 Savoia, 277 Smith Street, 718-797-2727

South Brooklyn Pizza, 451 Court Street, 718 852-6018 Stinky Brooklyn, 261 Smith Street, 718 522-7425 Sweet Melissa, 276 Court Street, (718) 855-3410 Tripoli, 156 Atlantic Ave, 718 596-5800 Vinny’s of Carroll Gardens, 295 Smith Street, 718 875-5600 Vinny’s Pizzeria, 455 Court Street, 718 596-9342 Vino y Tapas, 520 Court Street, 718407-0047 Zaytoons, 283 Smith Street, 718 875-1880

Gowanus

Michael and Pings, 437 Third Avenue, (718) 788-0017 Cotta Bene Pizza, 291 3rd Ave, 718 722-7200 Littlenecks, 288 3rd Ave., (718) 522-1921

Columbia Waterfront ALMA 187 Columbia St., (718) 643-

5400. CALEXICO CARNE ASADA 122 Union St., (718) 488-8226. CASELNOVA 214 Columbia St., (718) 522-7500. FERNANDO’S FOCACCERIA RESTAURANT 151 Union St., (718)855-1545. HOUSE OF PIZZA & CALZONES 132 Union St., (718) 624-9107. JAKE’S BAR-B-QUE RESTAURANT 189 Columbia St., (718) 522-4531. MAZZAT 208 Columbia St., (718) 8521652. PETITE CREVETTE 144 Union St., (718) 855-2632. TEEDA THAI CUISINE 218 Columbia St., (718) 643-2737.

Carroll Gardens/ Cobble Hill

Abilene, 442 Court Street, 718-5226900, Bacchus, 409 Atlantic, (718) 852-1572 Bar Bruno, 520 Henry St., 347-7630850, Bagels by the park, 323 Smith Street, (718) 246-1321 Bar great harry, 280 Smith Street (718) 222-1103 Bombay Dream, 257 Smith Street (718) 237-6490 Bourgeois Pig, 387 Court Street, (718) 858-5483 Brooklyn Bread Cafe, 436 Court Street (718) 403-0234 Buddy’s Burrito & Taco Bar, 260 Court Street, 718-488-8695, Buttermilk channel, 524 Court Street (718) 852-8490 Casa Rosa, 384 Court Street, 718-7971907 Chestnut, 271 Smith St., (718) 2430049 cobble grill, 212 Degraw Street, (718) 422-0099 Cobble Hill Coffee Shop, 314 Court Street, (718) 852-1162 Cody’s Ale House Grill, 154 Court Street, 718-852,6115 Court Street Grocers, 485 Court Street, (718) 722-7229 Crave, 570 Henry Street, (718) 643-0361 Cubana Cafe, 272 Smith Street (718) 718-858-3980 Downtown Bar & Grill, 160 Court street, 718-625-2835 Dubuque, 548 Court Street, (718) 5963248 Em Thai Kitchen, 278 Smith Street, (718) 834-0511 Enotica on Court, 347 Court Street, (718) 243-1000 F Line Bagels, 476 Smith Street (718) 422-0001 Five Guys, 266 Court St., 347-799-2902 Fragole, 394 Court Street, (718) 6227133 Francesco’s Restaurant, 531 Henry Street, (718) 834-0863 Frank’s Luncheonette, 365 Smith Street, (718) 875-5449

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April 1 - 15, 2013 Page 13

Art & Community Calendar If you have an event you would like listed in the Red Hook Star-Revue calendar, please email event@redhookstar.com

Benefits

Mar 21 Dance Theatre Etcetera’s Benefit Party Thursday March 21, 2013, 6:00pm-9:00pm The Brooklyn Crab 24 Reed Street Brooklyn NY 11231

Children

Thru March 31 Classes focusing on self esteem, problem solving, socialization, conflict resolution, and free expression through art, music and creative movement. For children from Birth to 7 yrs Who’s on First 1st Place (Clinton/Henry) (718) 243-1432 Every Sat 10:30-11:30am Story Time with Carol & Friends for Ages 4-6 at the Carroll Gardens Library with Carol Tronha of the Cobble Hill Playschool Carroll Gardens Library 396 Clinton St (Corner of Clinton & Union) (718) 5966972 Every Tues 10am GoGo 1 Pre Crawlers & 11:30am GoGo 2 Creeping, Crawling &Pulling Up Element 518 Henry St (Union St) 2nd floor studio (718) 6436064 Every Wed Wed’s 6:15-7:45pm Carroll Gardens Library Chess Club. Improve your chess and learn from an expert chess player All-Ages welcome! Bring a Chess Clock for Blitz Class Carroll Gardens Library 396 Clinton St (Corner of Clinton & Union) (718) 596-6972 Every Mon 10:30am Babies and Books for Babies and Tots (infant-18 months) Books for babies, learn fun songs & Rhymes and meet other families in your neighborhood in this program - Meeting Room of the Library, Carroll Gardens Library 396 Clinton St (Corner of Clinton & Union St) (718) 596-6972 Every Fri 1-2:30pm Arts & Crafts - Get Crafty with Bobbie the Volunteer Recommend ages 2 & + Meeting Room Carroll Gardens Library 396 Clinton St (Corner of Clinton & Union St) (718) 596-6972

Church/ Synagogue

Every Thur 6pm Choir Practice w/ Emiliana; in home Blessings and Masses, by appointment. Languages available: English, Spanish, Italian, Germen. Contact Lori Burkhard (917) 971-5522 Visitation of Our Blessing Virgin Mary R.C. 98 Richards St @Verona

Class/Workshops

Every Mon 4-4:45pm Children’s aikido (ages 4-5) 5-6 pm Youth aikido (6-13) 6:30-8pm Adult aikido, Aikido of South Brooklyn 205 Columbia St (718) 6126334 Every Tue 7:15-8:15am Adult Aikido, 4-4:45pm Children Aikido (ages 4-5), 5:15-6:30pm open Mat, 7-8pm Adult Aikido, weapons, Aikido of South Brooklyn 205 Columbia St (718) 612-6334 Every Wed 6:30-8pm Adult Aikido, Aikido of South Brooklyn 205 Columbia St (718) 612-6334 Every Thurs 4-4:45 Children’s Aikido (ages 4-5), 5-6pm Youth Aikido (ages 6-13), 7-8pm Adult Aikido, Aikido of South Brooklyn 205 Columbia St (718) 612-6334 Every Fri 4-4:45pm Children’s Aikido (ages 4-5), 5-6pm (ages 6-13), 7-8pm Adult Aikido, Aikido of South Brooklyn 205 Columbia St (718) 612-6334 Every Sat 9-10:30am Youth Aikido (ages 6-13), 10:45-12:15pm Adult Aikido, Aikido of South Brooklyn 205 Columbia St (718) 612-6334 Every Wed Feb13-Apr5 Arts in Books for Adults Pre-Registration is Required Carroll Gardens Library 396 Clinton St (Corner of Clinton & Union) (718) 5966972 Every Mon 7am Everyday Athlete, 9am Everyday Athlete for babies Noon Mommy & Baby Bungee Everyday Athlete 136 Union St (718) 852-6300

Page 14 Red Hook Star-Revue

Every Tues 6:30am Everyday Athlete + Yoga Everyday Athlete 136 Union st (718) 852-6300 Every Wed 9am Everyday Athlete for Baby’s, Noon Mommy & Baby Bungee, 7pm Everyday Athlete + Metabolic Strength Everyday Athlete 136 Union St (718) 852-6300 Every Fri Everyday Athletes Beginners Everyday Athlete 136 Union St (718) 852-6300 Every Sat 9am Everyday Athletes open class Everyday Athlete 136 Union St (718) 852-6300 Every Thurs 7:15-5:15pm Yoga in Redhook $10 or pay what you can Cora Studio 201 Richards St (Coffey/Van Dyke St.) (718) 858-2520 Every Mon thru June 9 3:30-4:30pm Creative Movement with Courtney Ages 4-5, 4:45-5:45pm Modern II with Courtney Ages 9-13, 5:55-6:55 CYC (Cora Youth Company) Ages 9-18 Nadia & Guests (Invitation only), Cora Dance 201 Richards St (Coffey/ Van Brunt St (718) 858-2520 Every Tues thru Mar 26 11-11:45 am Dance Baby Dance! With Luisa ages 2-3.5, Discover Dance (Pre-Ballet, Tap, and Creative Movement combo) with Dana Ages 4-5 Cora Dance 201 Richards St (Coffey/ Van Brunt St) (718) 858 2520 Every Wed thru June 9 3:30-4:30pm Big Fun Dance (Modern Technique with Jazz/Hip hop with Sarah B. Ages 6-9, 4:45-5:45pm Hip Hop Ages 9+ Sarah B & Solomon Cora Studio 201 Richards St (Coffey/Van Dyke St) (718) 858-2520 Every Thurs thru June 9 3:30-4:30pm Ballet I with Courtney ages 6-9, 4:455:45pm Ballet II** with Courtney Ages 9+, 7:15-8:15pm Yoga Teen/Adult with Jolene Cora Studio 201 Richards St (Coffey/Van Dyke St) (718) 858-2520 Every Fri thru June 9 3-4pm The Works! (Drama, visual arts, music, story-telling and more!) Ages 5-8 Cora Studio 201 Richards St (Coffey/Van Dyke St) (718) 858-2520

Fri Mar 22 Noon Freetown Produce Festival- Three Day Pass $75, Freetown produce Festival Cooking Class with Black Pot Supper $20, Freetown Produce Festival- Friday day pass $30, 7pm Freetown produce festival dance class, bands & black pot supper-dubl Handi, Stephanie Jenkins, Kristen Andereassen, Rosie Newton, Chris Eldrige, Michaela Anne, Bailey Cooke and Erin Durant $15 Jalopy Theatre and School of Music 315 Columbia St (718) 395-3214 Fri Mar 22 41 Players 9 pm, Bait and Tackle, 320 Van Brunt St 718-451-4665 Sat Mar 23 The Strung Out String Band 9 pm, Bait and Tackle, 320 Van Brunt St 718-451-4665 Sat Mar 23 Noon Freetown Produce Festival $37.50, 7pm Freetown Saturday Night Bands and Blackpot supper-brain cloud and The Revelers Jalopy Theatre and School of Music 315 Columbia St (718) 395-3214 Every Monday 8-11pm The Star Theater Acoustic Jam 101 Union St (Columbia/Van Brunt St) (718) 624-5568 Every Thur 8pm The Star Theater Electric Jam Dim lights and loud music- join

The

your local neighbors and make some great music with us 101 Union St (Columbia/Van Brunt St) (718) 624-5568

Tastings

Fri March 22: cabernet sauvignon 5:308:30, free Chilean cab from a family owned winery in the Maipo Valley, that specialize in the production of red wines. Dry Dock & Wine & Spirits 424 Van Brunt St (718) 624-5921 Sat March 23: 4:00-7:00, free Distilled by 2 brothers in Catalunya this 100% pure vodka, is made from 100% grain, and is 100% headache free. Dry Dock Wine & Spirits 424 Van Brunt St (718) 624-5921

Walking Tours

Daily 10am-1pm A historical walking tour of Brownstones Brooklyn featuring the childhood home of Al Capone, the history of the Williamsburg Bank and the Revolutionary War battle site the Old Stone House, Real Brooklyn Pizza lunch included $40 A Tour Grows in Brooklyn 1212 64th St. (212) 209-3370

Camp (Advantages Package Required) Trainer: Nick, Body Elite, Body Elite & Fitness Center 348 Court Street (718) 935-0088 Every Tues 7:45pm TRX Strength Trainer: Nick, Body Elite & Fitness Center 348 Court Street (718) 935-0088 Every Wed 7am TRX Basic Robin & 7pm TRX Basic Robin, Body Elite & Fitness Center 348 Court Street (718) 935-0088 Every Thurs 7 am TRX Basic Robin & Rachel, Body Elite & Fitness Center 348 Court Street (718) 935-0088 Every Sat 9:45 am TRX Circuit Robin, Body Elite & Fitness Center 348 Court Street (718) 935-0088 Every Sun 11 am TRX Basic Robin & Rachel, Body Elite & Fitness Center 348 Court Street (718) 935-0088

Fitness/Body

Every Mon 6:30 am & 7pm TRX Boot

Red Hook StarªRevue SOUTH BROOKLYN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

GET THE STAR-REVUE BY MAIL!

Every Sat thru June 9 9:30-10:30am Zumba** Teen/Adults with Sarah F. Cora Studio 201 Richards St. (Coffey/Van Dyke St) (718) 858-2520

Due to popular request, the Red Hook Star-Revue is now available by mail. Annual subscriptions are only $24. Each issue will be sent directly to your mailbox by the US Postal Service.

Every Sun thru April 7 5-7pm Sense Writing for writers of all levels $430 Jalopy Theatre and School of Music 315 Columbia St (718) 395-3214

In less than three years, the Star-Revue has won praise from local and civic leaders for hard hitting coverage of local government, institutions and businesses. From our coverage of the waterfront to local schools and community groups, the Star-Revue casts a beacon on events that make Red Hook the unique Brooklyn community it is.

Galleries

Special Offer! For a limited time, new subscribers will receive both issues from November 2012 that chronicle Hurricane Sandy. These issues have already achieved national recognition and are incredible keepsakes of the tragedy and rebuilding of the Red Hook community. These prized editions will be mailed upon receipt of your $24 subscription payment.

Sun Mar 17 4:40 pm Artist Talk: Jennifer Williams and Jason Varone 440 Gallery 440 6th Ave. (Park Slope) (718) 4993844 Thurs-Sun 1-8pm thru Aug 31st New Collections of Local Artists FREE Brooklyn Collective Gallery 212 Columbia St (Union/Sackett) (718) 596-6231

FREE WITH YOUR ORDER:

Polar Light: Greenland photography of Rebe Bass Fotrman and the Greenland drawings of Zaria Forman. A climate change awareness exhibition held in conjunction with Al Gore’s “The Climate Project” Look North Inuit Art Gallery 275 Conover St Suite 4E (347) 721-3995

1 copy each of our first two post Sandy editions. Destined to become collector items.

Sat-Sun Mar 2-31st Joanie Turbek and Matt Rubby “Dream Team” Lorraine Gallery 183 Lorraine St (Clinton/ Court St) (347) 409-8957

Museums

Every Sat Sats 12-7pm Refreshments, 5-7pm Evenings, 5-10 pm Above and Beyond, a three-year retrospective of the art if William and Kathleen Lazia Micro Museum 123 Smith Street (718) 797-3116 Every Thurs (4-8pm) & Sun (1-5pm) Free Boat tour & open hours The Waterfront Museum Lehigh Valley Barge No. 79 290 Conover Street (718) 624-4719 ext 11

Music

Wed Mar 20 9pm Roots & Ruckus ft Feral Foster, Foghorn and more! Free Jalopy Theatre and School of Music 315 Columbia St (718) 395-3214 Thurs Mar 21 7pm Date Night at the Jalopy Tavern & Theatre $45, 9pm Jan Bell $10, 10pm Ana Egge$10 Jalopy Theatre and School of Music 315 Columbia St (718) 395-3214

sUbsCRIPtIon foRM Yes! I need to keep up with new of my favorite neighborhoods. Please sign me up to receive the Red Hook Star-Revue via the US Mail.

 1 year, $24

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April 1 - 15, 2013

Star-Revue Classifieds Help Wanted

Help Wanted

JABUS BUILDING CORP.

Serving Red Hook for over 25 years

Specializing in Construction and Historic Preservation • New construction • Renovations, additions and extensions • Masonry specialist • Concrete floors/radiant heated • Concrete/bluestone sidewalk repair • Flue linings, chimneys and fireplaces • Demolition and waste removal • Violation removals • Landmark Preservation contractor

Jim & Debbie Buscarello PHONE: (718) 852-5364 Fax: (347) 935-1263 www.jabusbuildingcorp.com jabusbuildingcorp@gmail.com HIC License #0883902 Trade Waste License #1135

Licensed Electrical Contractors Commercial • Residential • Industrial Free Estimates

Violations Removed All Types of Wiring Emergency Service EMERGENCY SERVICE 137 King Street Brooklyn, NY 11231 Fax: (718) 935-0887

Vito Liotine (718) 625-1995 (718) 625-0867 aliotine@aol.com

No job too big or too small

Toilets, Boilers, Heating, Faucets, Hot Water Heaters, Pool Heaters.

B & D Heating 507 Court Street 718 625-1396

101 Union Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231 advertising@redhookstar.com Red Hook Star-Revue

www.RedHookStar.com

718 624-5568 www.RedHookStar.com April 1 - 15, 2013 Page 15

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www.RedHookStar.com

April 1 - 15, 2013