The
Red Hook StarªRevue
JANUARY 2016
SOUTH BROOKLYN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
FREE
Miniature golf coming to Red Hook! by Halley Bondy
W
hen it comes to a lowstress, family-friendly activity that everybody loves, miniature golf has few rivals. Yet finding a mini golf course in New York is about as easy as finding parking on the weekends and that goes double during the cold months. Four years ago, friends Chris Schneider and Ryan Powers had a harebrained idea. They would quit their full-time jobs on Broadway – working in props and sound design respectively - and channel their talents into an indoor miniature golf course. There would be a game, naturally, but their vision also included a bona fide plot line, characters, an original musical score, special effects, and other elements harkening their theatrical backgrounds. More importantly, their own kids would have something to do - yearround. “Once we had families of our own, we realized how little there is to keep everyone entertained constantly,” Schneider said. “People love mini
ALSO INSIDE
Ryan Powers and Chris Schneider will be opening their new indoor golf emporium at 621 Court Street next month. (photos courtesy Shipwrecked)
golf because anyone can play it. You don’t have to be skilled, and it’s something that anyone from the kids to the grandparents can enjoy together.” This year, Schneider and Powers will realize their fun, oddball dream. In February (if all goes as planned), Brooklyn will have its only indoor mini golf course: Shipwrecked, A Nautical Adventure Mini Golf Experience.
Across from Red Hook Park
Shipwrecked is located on the second floor of 621 Court Street across from the Red Hook Ball Fields. Though it’s still under construction, the complex is decidedly impressive in scope and vision. The 11,000 square-foot loft space is partitioned, with each room serving as an act in a theatrical sea(continued on page 5)
Justice Center's Karen Gopee becomes a Criminal Court Judge - page 12
A conversation with Felix Ortiz Felix Ortiz has represented Red Hook and Sunset Park in the NY State Assembly for over 20 years. Last year, following the removal of Sheldon Silver as Assembly Speaker, Ortiz became the Assistant Speaker for the new Assembly leader Carl Heastie. We have gotten to know Felix well over the past five years publishing the StarRevue, as well as his Community Liaison Karen Broughton. Both are familiar faces in Red Hook. We dropped in on Felix right before Christmas to find out more about the duties of a NY State Assemblyman. His Sunset Park office was filled with both Christmas cheer and constituents needing help. Star-Revue (SR): We are curious to find out about your new duties as Assistant Speaker as well as what exactly an Assembly member does. Felix Ortiz (FO): The State Assembly is composed of 150 members while the State Senate has 63. Our main purpose is to allocate resources, which entails creating a budget to present to the governor. The biggest power of the legislature is the outcome of that budget, and how we do the negotiations to make sure we protect our constituents - ensuring that needed services will continue. If, for one reason or an-
Red Hook Star-Revue
other, we have to make cuts to make the budget balance, the Assembly and the Senate have to come together with the governor and agree about what services can be cut, and by how much.
Rosa is part of what makes Red Hook special - page 13
We are constantly looking at how money comes in to the state, and compare it to the projections, making sure we are on track. Starting every September, the Senate and Assembly get together to analyze the numbers. By December Felix Ortiz walks with Senator Chuck Schumer observing the devastation after Hurricane Sandy. we have a good idea of education, health care, corrections, how much money we will have to work with as we negotiate law enforcement around the state, the next budget. The fiscal year begins and programs for people with disabilin July and the budget has to be ready ities and mental health programs. by April 1. (SR): What about lawmaking?
(SR): What kinds of programs are funded by the state?
(FO): The State has sovereignty over local municipalities. Municipalities make local ordinances regulating their own local area. We are always looking at the local laws. Occasionally we will feel that a local law is a great
(FO): Among the things we fund are
(continued on page 6)
Right now, things are going well with revenues, and we have an indication that we will have a surplus of between one and one and a half billion dollars.
www.star-revue.com
Theater Uzume brings the arts to the people - page 14
January 2016, Page 1
FREE Neighborhood Services Frank McCrea from the NYC Department of Aging is at the Miccio Center every Monday from 10 - 2 pm. He will help you solve any problem you may have dealing with any NYC agency, such as child welfare, support groups, benefits, etc. Sandy Recovery Worforce1. Services for NYCHA residents include career counseling, resume editing, interview advice, job recruitment events with Build It Back contractors, Vouchers for pre-apprenticeship, construction skills and other job training programs. 1906 Mermaid Ave, 2nd Fl; Brooklyn, 11224 Tel: (646) 927-6093 Hours: 9am to 5pm. Lots more information at http://www.nyc.gov/html/sbs/wf1/html/sandy_recovery/home.shtml. Karen Blondel who lives in the Red Hook Houses is always available for additional guidance. Her number is 718 809-2070 Free use of computers at the Justice Center. Not everyone has access to a desktop computer, and yet many job and educational opportunities require one. So the Justice Center offers its computers to the community for free, every Wednesday from 10 am - 1 pm, room 101. The Justice Center is on Visitation Place between Richards and Van Brunt. For more information call Sabrina Carter 718 923-8261 Brooklyn Workforce Innovations - Certificate courses in TV/Film production, woodworking and cabinet making, cable installation as well as driving lessons are available. For information stop by 621 Degraw Street (near 4th Avenue) or call 718 2372017. www.bwiny.org OpportunityNYCHA - the REES program administers the “Section 3” program. This is a HUD mandate that requires employment and other economic opportunities coming from the Federal Government to be directed towards public housing residents. NYC has a similar program requiring that 15% of the labor amount of NYCHA contracts greater than $500,000 to go NYCHA residents. Eligibility requirements, according to Karen Blondell, are that you must either be 1 - on the lease, 2 - economically disadvantaged (receiving SNAP benefits), or 3 -live withing 10 blocks of a NYCHA development. To register call the REES Hotline at (718) 289-8100. Examples of opportunities include web development, home health aide training, NYPD tutorial, NRTA Construction Training. REES conducts information sessions at the Brooklyn office
every Tuesday and Thursday at 8:30am. Address: 787 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238. Red Hook Cares (Counseling and Restorative Services). Including advocacy, case management and referrals for victims of crime. Accompaniment to partner agencies and criminal justice appointments. Located at the Community Justice Center, 88 Visitation Place. To make a referrall call Laura Volz, 347 4049910 or email lvolz@nycourts.gov Stronger Together services are free and prioritize Red Hook and other local NYCHA development residents. Their services include Adult Education, Job Readiness, Community Services, which include benefits counseling, legal advice, financial coaching and tax preparations. The services are free because the Red Hook Initiative, Fifth Avenue Committee, SBIDC and Brooklyn Workforce Innovations have been paid by the NY City Council to provide these services. So take advantage of them! For information call 718 8586782 or go the the Red Hook Initiative at 767 Hicks Street (at W 9th). The Edward J. Malloy Initiative for Construction Skills provides training and employment in the unionized construction industry. CSKILLS has placed more than 1600 New Yorkers into union apprentice programs over the past 15 years. To be considered you must be 18 years or older, be a legal citizen, HS or GED, 9th grade reading and math scores and available to attend training 5 days a week 7 hours a day. Their website is www.constructionskills. org. It looks like the best way to navigate that website is to check under apprenticeship training and choose a union program, and also to go to useful links, where you can find a whole host of other opportunities, including Helmets to Hardhats - a workforce program for veterans. The Child Place for Children with Special Needs holds a Read and Play afternoon in the Red Hook library every Monday at 1 - 2:00 pm. Kids 5 and under. Parent or guardians must accompany children, who will be able to meet, make friends and play! Red Hook Library, 7 Wolcott Street If you have a listing that you feel appropriate for this page, email george@redhookstar.com. There is no charge, as this is a free service as well!
Happenings, etc. MONDAY, JANUARY 11 CB 6's Economic/Waterfront/Community Development & Housing committee meeting. There will be a presentation by the Carroll Gardens Association. Cobble Hill Health Center 380 Henry Street 6:30 pm
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13 Brooklyn For Peace will hold a Forum on Syria and the associated crises that are inflaming the Middle East: the Syrian Civil War, the flood of refugees fleeing terrible, life-threatening conditions, the emergence of extremist organizations and the possibility of another disastrous war that threatens to spread beyond the region. Free admission. The Commons, 338 Atlantic Avenue, doors open at 6:30 pm
TUESDAY, JANUARY 19 Gowanus Canal Community Advisory (CAG) monthly meeting. Join the Gowanus Canal Community Advisory Group for our first monthly general meeting of 2016. Public invited. St. Mary Star of the Sea Residence, 41 1st Street, 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm
THURSDAY, JANUARY 21 Integrated Flood Protection Public Meeting -The Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency, in partnership with the New York City Economic Development Corporation, invite you to share your local insights that will help shape the project priorities for the Red Hook Integrated Flood Protected System (IFPS). Miccio Center, 110 West 9th St. 6:30 - 8:30
FRIDAY, JANUARY 22
Pioneer Works presents Flood, by Charles Harlan A 10-ft. by 10-ft. brick cube, 10 feet high, with a basin of water inside. A chain link fence, 6 feet wide, draping 33 feet from the ceiling, resting on the concrete. A piece of fencing, into which a tree grew. 736 sq. ft. of roofing shingles, tiled on the floor to walk on. Opening Reception, 159 Pioneer St. 6-9 pm
RELIGIOUS SERVICES Christian
River Of God Christian Center
110 Wolcott Street, 646-226-6135, Secretary, Sister Roslyn Chatman. Sunday - Family Worship 11:00 - 1:00 pm Scripture, read in English and Spanish Wednesday - At The Gate 12:00 noon, Prayer 7:00 - 7:30 pm, Bible Studies 7:00 - 8:00 pm, Thursday Prayer 7:30 - 8:30pm, Friday Youth ABLAZED Ministries 6:00 - 7:30pm, Senior Pastor, Donald Gray
Visitation Church
98 Richards Street , (718) 624-1572. Office open Mon-Thursday 9 am - 3 pm. Saturday Mass at 5:00 pm English; Sunday 10:00 am Spanish, 12:30 pm English. Community Prayer on Tuesday and Thursday at 8:00 pm. Baptisms are held every other month. Please call to arrange for Baptisms, First Communion, Confirmation and Weddings.
New Brown Memorial Baptist Church
609 Clinton Street, 718 624 4780 Pastor A.R Jamal. Sunday School at 9:30 am. Sunday Worship at 11:00 am. Bible Study -Wednesday at 7:30pm. Communion every first Sunday
The
Red Hook StarªRevue
481 Van Brunt Street, 8A, Brooklyn, NY 11231 FOR EDITORIAL, ADVERTISING OR EMPLOYMENT INQUIRIES, email: info@redhookstar.com, or call 718 624-5568 The Star-Revue is published by
Kimberly G. Price & George Fiala
Stretching Far and Wide Global Ministry, Inc.
382 Hamilton Avenue, Studio B 1-800-948-9042 Archbishop Dr. Barbara Jackman, Overseer Rev. Dr. Dwayne Barnes, Pastor Services are held every Sunday @ 10:00 am Communion every First Sunday stretchingfar.webs.com stretchingfar@aol.com
Halley Bondy, Nathan Weiser, Mary Ann Pietanza, Marc Jackson and Connor Gaudet, contributors
St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish
467 Court Street, (718) 625-2270 Rectory Hours: Monday-Thursday 9:00 am - 11:30 am, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm, Friday 9:00 am - 12:00 noon. Masses: Saturday 5:30 pm, Sunday 10:00 am, Monday - Thursday 9:30 am.
Saint Paul and Saint Agnes Parish
Community Telephone Numbers:
Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary - Saint Stephen Roman Catholic Church
Red Hook Councilman Carlos Menchaca.................. 718 439-9012 Red Hook Assemblyman Felix Ortiz...........................718-492-6334 Red Hook State Sen. Velmanette Montgomery.....718-643-6140 Gowanus Councilman Brad Lander............................ 718 499-1090 Park Slope Councilman Steve Levin........................... 718 875-5200 CB6 District Manager Craig Hammerman ............... 718 643-3027
St. Paul’s Carroll Street
76th Police Precinct, 191 Union Street Main phone ..................................................................718-834-3211 Community Affairs...................................................... 718 834-3207 Traffic Safety................................................................ 718 834-3226
Church Office 234 Congress Street (718) 624-3425 Hours: M - F 830am-12 St. Agnes Church Office 433 Sackett Street, 718-625-1717 Hours: M-F 1pm-430pm Email: stpaulstagnes@gmail.com St. Agnes: Saturday 5pm Vigil Mass Sunday 9 am (English), 11:30am (Spanish) St. Paul’s: Saturday 5pm Vigil Mass Sunday 8 am & 9:30am (English); 11am (Spanish) Monday & Tuesday 8:30am (St. Paul’s) Wednesday & Thursday 8:30am (St. Agnes) Saturday 8am (St. Paul’s)
125 Summit Street at Hicks Street, (718) 596-7750, info@sacredhearts-ststephen.com Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 9:00 am - 5:00 am, Friday 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:30 pm, Sunday Masses at 8:00 am, 10:00 am, and 11:45 am (Italian/ English) Weekday Masses during winter months at 8:30 am and 12:00 noon Confessions: Saturday at 4:45 pm and by appointment. Baptisms every third Sunday at 1:00 pm. 199 Carroll Street Parish Office: 718-625-4126 Sunday Mass at 10 am Weekday Morning Prayer - Mon.-Thurs. at 7:30 am Weekday masses as announced Holy Days as announced \ Church open for prayer Tues. 6-8pm & Sat. 2-4pm http://stpaulscarrollst.weebly.com/
Jewish
Kane Street Synagogue
236 Kane Street, 718 875-1550 http://kanestreet.org/ Friday night services, 6:00 PM Shabbat services, 9:15 AM Sunday Services 9:00 AM
Congregation B’nai Avraham/Chabad of Brooklyn Heights
If your religious institution isn’t listed here, let us know by emailing info@redhookstar.com Thanks! Page 2 Red Hook Star-Revue
Eileen Dugan Senior Center, 380 Court Street........ 718 596-1956 Miccio Community Center, 110 East 9th Street...... 718 243-1528 Red Hook East Dev. Office, 62 Mill St......................... 718 852-6771 Red Hook West Dev. Office, 55 Dwight St................. 718 522-3880 Brownstone Republicans...info@brownstonerepublicanclub.com NYCHA Satellite Police Precinct, 80 Dwight Street Main Phone................................................................ (718) 265-7300 Community Affairs.................................................... (718) 265-7313 Domestic Violence.................................................... (718) 265-7310
www.star-revue.com
January 2016
PA says waterfront is safe by Keith J. Klein
T
by Keith J. Klein
he 76th Precinct Community Council meeting was held on Tuesday, January 5th featuring Port Authority representatives discussing counter-terrorism and security around the Red Hook container port and The Civilian Complaint Review Board was on hand to give a presentation on citizens’ rights. Captain Elliot Colon took the podium first, starting with the monthly crime statistics report. The latest report showed a crime increase of crime due to a recent spike in domestic cases. Many of these were assaults likely tied to family situations that occur around the holidays. Colon reported that more arrests were made. Plainclothes officers made an arrest on 80 Bush St. on New Year’s Eve. A suspect, acting erratically while intoxicated, threw a loaded .38 caliber handgun and his drink to the ground and was apprehended. The net result was one less gun on the street. Wally Bazemore asked Colon about gang violence. Colon responded that the Gangsta Money Makers (GMM crew) is the only active group whose rivals are the Ow-Ow. He said that “since August 3rd there has not been any back-and-forth between any of the crews in Red Hook or Gowanus.”
Justice Center hosts pop-up
Both Julian Morales representing Councilman Menchaca and Amanda Berman from the Red Hook Justice Center discussed the ID NYC pro-
Deveney and Coccia from the Port Authority say there is nothing to fear from terrorists coming to our piers. (Klein photo)
With fences around all the piers they said “this port is 100% secure.” They explained that “there are many layers of security,” saying that everything coming off ships is vetted and radiation tested. Each terminal's detailed security plan is submitted and reviewed by the Port Authority. Deveney and Coccia also stated the Red Hook terminal is manned 24/7 and “we have not had any issues with breaches of security.” Everyone who works on the waterfront goes through a background check by the Department of Homeland Security. They told the interested room that “there have been no ISIS threats to the maritime sector,” and that lone wolfs are more of a concern. Overall, they concluded the 15 years since 9/11 have been a great success based on the collaboration between the public and private sector.
CCRB Engages the Community Sylvia Ancrum, Outreach Coordinator from the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB), spoke poignantly about the agency’s mission to investigate police misconduct. She mentioned, that while the police have a dangerous job, they have rules to follow.
All residents 14 and older who reside in the 5 boroughs are eligible and there are many incentives and benefits to enroll, including free museum admissions.
She guided the room through the four levels of permissible police conduct. For example, an officer must always provide their name, rank and shield upon request and that there must be sufficient cause to proceed from a level 1 request for information to a level 2 common law inquiry and most importantly a level 3 detainment where a frisk & search can occur, potentially leading to a level 4 arrest.
Berman announced that all Americorp positions have been filled but there will be additional slots for parttime members later in the year.
Ancrum pointed out that it is at level 3 the CCRB is most concerned about in terms of ensuring they are conducted with sufficient cause.
Port Authority officials then took the stage. Marine Operations Manager, Mike Deveney, and Manager of Port Security, Joe Coccia made a rare local appearance. Together they discussed the three separate terminals in Red Hook These are the Cruise Terminal, the Container Terminal and the berths at Piers 7 & 8.
Anyone that feels they may have been or knows a victim should call 311 or contact the CCRB directly at 1-800341-2272. A few community members expressed their concern that area youth may not know their rights and setting up an informational workshop and seminar at the Red Hook Justice Center was suggested. Latoya Benjamin from the District Attorney’s office offered to help with outreach.
This handgun was seized at 80 Bush Street on New Year's Eve.
gram. The Justice Center, located at 88 Visitation Place, is hosting a popup enrollment site until January 29th.
They explained that all personnel on site are trained annually by the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor and each employee must have a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC card) to ensure current employment.
Red Hook Star-Revue
Community Council meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month at 7:30 at the 76h Precinct at 191 Union St. The next meeting will be on February 2nd.
www.star-revue.com
January 2016, Page 3
RELIGIOUS NEWS BY LAURA ENG laura.eng59@aol.com.
Native Son Returns for Christmas Reading
N
oted poet, playwright, author and Carroll Gardens’ native, Vito Gentile, returned to Sacred Hearts/St. Stephen Church on Sunday, December 6th to share poems, including those from his book, Fifty Poems About Christmas, and excerpts from his memoir, Little Christmas. Gentile, who grew up on 4th Place, attended school at St. Mary Star of the Sea and worshipped at both St. Mary’s and SHSS churches when he was a boy. While his extraordinary life has taken many turns - to Windsor Terrace, to Wall Street, to Greenwich Village, to London, and now to Long Island Gentile has never forgotten about his days of growing up in South Brooklyn, and the devotion of his parents to their family and their faith. His connection to SHSS church can best be found in the Statue of Our Lady of Sorrows (Madonna Addolorata), patroness of Mola Di Bari. It was Gentile’s father, Vito Antonio Gentile, Sr. and his cousin, Joseph (Pupine) who made it possible to have a replica made of the original statue of the Madonna in Mola. Then they had it transported to their adopted parish of SHSS. Pupine went door to door in Red Hook to raise the necessary funds. When the processions (or “parades” as Mr. Gentile, Jr. refers to them) began in 1948 on Good Fridays and on the Madonna’s September feast day each year, they would always stop on the corner of 4th Place and Court Street, and turn the statue to face the Gentile home in his honor. Mr. Gentile has been writing Christmas poems for close to 40 years. While “they are not all religious in nature,” as he states in Little Christmas, “they follow that old testament dictum, Prepare ye the way of the Lord!” The reading, therefore, made for a perfect Sunday afternoon in Advent for the more than 60 people who came. Wearing a suit and tie as his father wore each Sunday when he attended weekly Mass at SHSS, Gentile read poems that spanned his lifetime.One was about a nativity scene which found a home on top of his refrigerator. He also read a particularly humorous and poignant excerpt from Little Christmas, about waiting with his little brother on Court Street for their father to come home from his job on the docks. Their hope was to convince him to buy a Christmas tree early in the season for the bargain price of 75 cents! Mr. Gentile’s words evoked magical memories of Christmas in Carroll Gardens of old for those who were around back then. He painted a vivid picture of the way things were for newcomers As SHSS parishioner Joe Cerato stat-
Page 4 Red Hook Star-Revue
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Vito Gentile standing in front of the patroness of Mola Di Bari.
ed, “I left with more Christmas spirit than I had when I arrived.”
Upcoming Events
Congregation Mount Sinai 250 Cadman Plaza West First Fridays @ CMS combines traditional prayers with music, chanting, meditation and song to create an inclusive, joyful experience of community, spirituality and meaning. Join our musicians with your family and friends to start your weekend in an uplifting and relaxing way. Friday, January 8 - musical Shabbat service at 6:30 pm and vegetarian potluck dinner at 7:30 pm. To sponsor an upcoming First Friday, please contact rabbiwax@gmail.com. Radical Judaism with Igal Harmelin Moria Tuesdays in January (starting January 18) and February (through February 23) from 6:00–8:00 pm; free introductory talk on Monday, January 11 at 7:00 pm. Explore a Judaism that is alive, vibrant, and full of meaningful practices that can enrich, inform, and inspire your life. Join Igal Harmelin Moria for an an 8-session seminar on the teachings in Radical Judaism by Rabbi Arthur Green. Each session will consist of a short presentation, passage reading, some meditative exercises, and a group discussion. Course cost is $150 ($75 for students and seniors). Afternoon Film Festival - Jewish Soldiers in Blue and Gray on Wednesday, January 20 at 3:30 pm. An exploration of the little-known history of the Jews who fought for both the Confederacy and the Union Armies. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated. Coffee and snacks provided. Kane Street Synagogue 236 Kane Street Open Beit Midrash on Tuesday evenings until April 12, 2016. This month’s course will take place on January 5, 12, and 19 and is entitled Unpacking the Conversion Debate-Ancient Sources, Modern Questions. The next (continued on next page)
January 2016
Miniature golf coming to Red Hook
(continued from page 1)
faring journey. Players are greeted by a ship captain hologram who guides them to the first hole. As they walk through the course and as the holes get more difficult, they encounter different characters, set pieces, booby traps, music, mayhem, and ultimately, a conclusion – though Schneider and Powers insisted that we didn’t give it all away. The complex also features a cafeteria - with locally sourced food and beverages! - a few 80s arcade games like Pacman, rooms for private events, and a large terrace where adults can take a breather. It will accommodate everything from school groups to private parties to company teambuilding events, as well as free play all week. While the rates aren’t set in
Religion
(continued from previous page)
course will take place on January 26, February 2 and 9 and will be entitled “Say You Are My Sister...” Sisters and Brothers in the Bible. Dinner at 6:45 and Class from 7:30 - 9:00 pm. Cost is $40 per each three-week course; subscriptions are available. Visit http:// kanestreet.org or contact Joy Fallek at ronitjoy@aol.com for information and registration.
The Oratory Church of St. Boniface 109 Willoughby Street Beyond Sunday@ the Oratory - For 20 or 30 somethings looking for a group of fellow Catholic young adults to share spiritual, service, and social activities. E-mail Emily Mathis at beyondsundayoratory@gmail.com to be added to the weekly newsletter list and to find out about upcoming events. Selma - Film Screening and Potluck. The Adult Faith Formation and Social Justice Committees are joining forces this year to present Catholic Encounters with Race: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. This ongoing series calls for Christian dialogue and action on the racial divide in our communities and churches. We’ll seek to confront past and current failures in addressing the sin of racism, especially in our own Catholic churches, as well as to seek hope and guidance from within our faith tradition. Join us as we kick things off with a potluck dinner and
stone, Schneider and Powers want the experience to be about as affordable as a trip to the movies.
Very out-of-the-way
The non-descript industrial building isn’t exactly where you’d expect to find such a massive mini golf palace. But for Schneider and Powers, landing the location felt nothing short of miraculous. The duo had spent two disheartening years searching for an adequate site from Brooklyn to Queens. But between outbidding counter-offers and sketchy leases, their hopes began to wane. Then one day, Schneider came across an ad on Craigslist for the Red Hook space. The second-floor loft was huge, new, and just a stone’s throw from
screening of Selma, the acclaimed 2014 film. On Friday, January 15: Potluck Dinner at 6:00 P.M., Film/ Discussion at 7:00 P.M. in Newman Hall. Fr. Dennis’ Book Club Schedule, 2015-2016 Members Choice! On Sundays at 1:00 pm: January 24 - Redeployment by Phil Kay; February 28 - Ubik, by Philip Kay Dick; March 13 - The Death of Ivan Illyich by Leo Tolstoy; April 24 - Old Ways by Robert MacFarlane; May 15 - The Blue Flower by Penelope Fitzgerald; and on Monday, June 20 - The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith. Aula Maxima. New members welcome.
Sacred Hearts/St. Stephen Church Summit & Hicks Streets 150th Anniversary Year of Saint Stephen Parish opening Mass and celebration of the Feast of St. Stephen on January 17th at 10:00 am. St. Agnes Church Hoyt & DeGraw Streets French Mass each Sunday at 11am Sounds on Sackett - A concert series of jazz, pop, and classical performances will continue in March. For more information and a full list of upcoming concerts, call 718-6251717.
their homes in Greenwood Heights. “We thought it was a scam because it was too good to be true,” Schneider said. “We always loved Red Hook. It’s
"They signed a 12-year lease and set to work, sourcing many of their materials from Big Initiative (formerly Build It Green), as well as random places across the U.S.; the actual course, for example, hails from an abandoned mini golf spot in Maryland." such a beautiful, breathable neighborhood compared to the rest of New York.” They signed a 12-year lease and set to work, sourcing many of their materials from Big Initiative (formerly Build It Green), as well as random places across the U.S.; the actual course, for example, hails from an abandoned mini golf spot in Maryland.
As of mid-December, the space was still under construction. The co-owners are working around the clock to install the last lights, scenery, special effects, video, as well as an amplified soundtrack composed by Powers. With the big kick-off tentatively in February (barring issues with city approvals), they are feeling the heat.
Taking a risk
“It’s exciting and terrifying at the same time,” Powers said. “It’ll either succeed, and we’ll be okay. Or you’ll find me in a cardboard box on the side of the street.” Hopefully the universal love of mini golf will prevail, however. During his travels and research, Powers said he found not only mini golf dabblers, but die-hard mini golf enthusiasts. He even discovered a wide world of mini golf leagues. Yes, leagues. With tournaments and everything. “Yes, that kind of thing exists!” Powers said. “We couldn’t believe it. There are people who are really crazy about mini golf. We are really excited to tap into that.” To stay on top of Shipwrecked news, like them on Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/ShipwreckedNYC
Visitation BVM Church 98 Richards Street Healing Mass in Spanish on January 13 at 7:00 pm. Healing Mass in English on January 29 at 7:00 pm.
Help Wanted at the Red Hook Star-Revue Looking for editorial interns, fledgling reporters and experienced freelancers.
email George at gbrook@pipeline.com Shipwrecked will have both a party room and a unique video game area.
Red Hook Star-Revue
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January 2016, Page 5
A chat with Felix Ortiz, Red Hook's representative in the NY State Assembly (continued from page 1)
idea, and then we will try to take that idea and make it a statewide law. In other words, we unify the ordinance. A good example are the laws regulating driving and cellphones. I was already thinking about the dangers of driving and talking back in 1996. Others were saying that legislating against it was a ridiculous idea. But by 1998, both Suffolk and Nassau counties enacted their own ordinances. The ordinances were different. One said that if you got caught talking on the cellphone, they would give you a $50 summons. The other jurisdiction, right next to the first one, imposed a $100 fine. Next, Albany came in with $200, and Saratoga with $50. We needed to unify that law, because so many drive between one county and another without even realizing it. If you are crossing from Westchester to the Bronx, for example, or Suffolk and Nassau, you can fight the ticket, because it is not a state mandate. So I introduced my own bill, making it a $100 fine statewide, and allowing the use of a hands-free device. That is one way how the state and cities work together. (SR): Do you ever invalidate a local law?
Assembly and boom - it passed both houses and became a unified statewide calorie labeling law - the first one in the country. (SR): What is it like dealing with lobbyists? (FO): That’s a very interesting ques-
"People know me, I never give up - they know I am persistent, I don't lie down like a little mosquito. Once I take on an issue, I take it to the finish line."
tion because you are facing a highly powerful group. When my calorie bill came to the floor, three different lobbyists, hired for $4 million by the fast food industry, were able to get the bill pulled at the last minute. At that point they won. Afterwards, company executives came to me to ask how we could make the bill better for them. We ended up passing the original bill. I don’t know why they spent that money to defeat me, and then walked away. But I won - I won that battle.
(FO): Now we are talking about Home Rule. A home ruling is a resolution that has comes from the City Council and the Mayor, and is then sent to the state legislature. We will look at it and make a decision as to whether it is doable for the city. One example is a municipality asking for a 1, 2 or 3 percent tax break, or perhaps a tax increase for hotels.
(SR): How did the lobbyists get the bill pulled?
Sometimes we will have to strengthen a local law. You might remember a few years ago when there was a scaffolding in Manhattan that collapsed. The city's Building Department told us that local regulations were strong and they did not need the state to examine them. But we held public hearings and found a lot of deficiencies in the city regulations, so we strengthened those regulations, and made them state law.
Lobbyists are very powerful. When you go against them you can end up being crucified. But people know me, I never give up - they know I am persistent, I don't lie down like a little mosquito. Once I take on an issue, I take it to the finish line. That’s the great thing about being in Albany. Whatever I take on, I get it done and people know that. And that’s the reason they respect me so much.
When Bloomberg was mayor, I was working on a bill to require fast food restaurants to publish calorie counts. I introduced that bill back in 1998. In the late 1980’s, the State of NY gave the NYC Department of Health the power of self-regulation, but with state oversight. Bloomberg knew that my bill was an uphill battle, so he told his commissioner to hold public meetings leading to the creation of a city labeling law. I testified at the public hearing and the City Council passed the regulation. Another county did the same thing. However, one law called for the labeling of calories and trans fat, the other for sodium. In order to unify the law, I brought my original bill back to the
Page 6 Red Hook Star-Revue
(FO): They were able to get the ears of the leadership, who pulled the bill from the calendar. The same thing happened with the cellphone bill. There was a lot of opposition from the wireless industry. I was able to persevere, hold roundtable discussions, and get it passed.
Felix Ortiz makes a point during last year's Red Hook Library Charette at PS 15.
available, but it's minimal. Our advantage is that when you are working with a $172 billion budget and there are programs that are popular and needed I can help them secure state funding. We also maintain relations with local officials and city agencies, so that when someone with a problem comes to our office, we can help them, either by something my office can do, or by referring them to the proper place. Someone in need may not know the difference between city and state government, they just need help. Maybe there is too much garbage in the street, maybe there’s a pothole. They come in with housing problems. I’m not going to tell my staff they can’t take care of these people. We have to take care of whoever walks in the door. We are here to solve their need. Everybody in my office gets trained as to the makeup of city agencies, what the state can do, and even what the US Congress can do locally.
For example, we get many people here on immigration issues. We have given citizenship tests in my office for the past twenty years. We have helped many become citizens. That’s not our job per se - but that’s our responsibility as elected officials - to do whatever we need to do to represent our people well. (SR): Finally, what does it mean to be Assistant Speaker? A - It is a great honor to be in this position. I continue to work, and work even closer, with the budget. I am on the Ways and Means committee which evaluates the budget. It gives me the opportunity to continue to work with the other members, in particular new members. I orient them with information about how the Assembly works - how to put together a bill, how to make sure their community is being taken care of, how they can look into the budget, into the State agencies, to discover grant opportunities for their district, and who to contact in local and state agencies in order to find a solution to problems in their district.
(SR): I understand that a lot of what you do is on a statewide basis. But what is expected of you in the district. When people come to your office, what are they asking, and what can you do for them? (FO): Well, lets look at two things right now. You have programs in my district for prevention of alcohol and drug abuse. You have programs for HIV. We control funding and regulation for those programs. You want to make sure that the programs are effective and have addressed the needs of my community. If there are grants available I will inform them and encourage them to apply. (SR): Do you have discretionary funds to use for the district as does the City Council?
EVERGREEN LIQUOR STORE INC. 718 643-0739 196 Columbia Street, between Sackett & Degraw evergreenliquor@yahoo.com
Mon. - Thurs. 11 am - 10:30 pm; Fri & Sat. 11 am - 11:30 pm; Sun. 1 pm - 9 pm
(FO): We do have discretionary funds
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January 2016
Daniel J. Defonte's Way by Kimberly Gail Price
I
n 1922, Nicky Defonte opened a sandwich shop on Columbia Street in Red Hook, Brooklyn. After his retirement, the family business was passed along to his sons, Danny and Vito. Through decades of change, the sandwich stop still stands. One man is hoping to honor their legacy. Angel Conde, better known as “Spanky,” started hanging around Defontes when he was 12 years old. When Spanky’s father died, Danny took him under his wing and treated him like one of his own children. Danny also gave him his first job.
Nicholas Defonte, founder of the fabled sandwich shop, with his son Daniel.
“He kinda set me straight. I was a young knucklehead,” Spanky said. Spanky scrubbed pots and pans after school. One day, Danny taught him how to make sandwiches. Along the way, Danny taught him a strong work ethic. “There are no freebies in this world; you have to work hard,” Spanky recalls him saying. Spanky had his first child when he was 18. He would take his son to the store, and the family always made sure he was okay. For the Defontes, family was always first; Spanky was part of their extended family. At 16, Spanky dropped out of school. He started working full time for the Defontes. When he left at age 19, he took the lessons of family and hard work with him into the construction business.
Little Nicky started working with his father as a young man. They worked side by side for 30 years before Danny retired at age 72. Sometimes the two didn’t always agree on how to run things. But Danny wouldn’t let tension come between his family. He would tell Nicky, “Whatever happens in the store – after that – no grudges. Say what you gotta say, and then it’s over.”
married. His boiler went out one evening and he called Danny to tell him he wouldn’t be at work the next day. Danny and his wife brought over two heaters that night. “His heart was bigger than him,” Henry said.
Nicky remembers the kind of man his father was. If anybody came into the store, they were fed – even if they couldn’t afford to pay for a sandwich. “Nobody walked out of here hungry,” he said. Danny would accept a penny or an IOU and then forget about the debt.
During down time, Danny would talk to the guys about “normal life things,” Henry said. He would ask about their families, weekend plans, which restaurants Danny and his brothers all started they had eaten at. working at the store after return- But when it came to work, Danny was Daniel Defonte with his son "Little Nicky." "Danny Defonte worked at the very serious. Nicky called Danny a “bull” when years old. After nearly four decades, store for 55 years, 6 days a it came time to work. He worked he now is partners with Nicky. He week. “Like the postmaster,” alongside his workers, just as Nicky remembers Danny as “hard-workdoes now. “We’re right there in the ing” and “extremely dedicated to his Nicky said. “Pain in his legs, fire. Nobody is too good to do any wife and kids.” Danny taught Larry a job.” strong work ethic. “Hard work pays
snow, rain – it didn’t matter.
Danny was nicknamed “Cagney” He was here every day. He was because of his attitude and a specific walk that reminded the guys of Cagney movie. When Henry took a tough guy." over as manager, he honored Danny with the Cagney Special – peppered ing from WWII. When he took over ham, provolone cheese, eggplant the store with his brother Vito, they and sweet peppers. learned hard work and a sense of Raymond Rotundi worked at his fafamily. As employees came through ther’s luncheonette down the street their store, they passed these qualifor years until the building was sold ties along. in 2011. After his dad’s store closed, Henry Marante has worked at De- Defontes – once again – took him in fontes for 40 years. He described and gave him a job. himself as another “young and stuHe remembers his father Frank pid kid” that Danny pulled off the being friendly with Danny, even streets when he was 16 years old. He though they were competitors. started working in the front of the Larry DeMonte started working for store making sandwiches. the Defonte family when he was 16 In 1983, Henry was engaged to be
off,” Larry said. “He was good to me.” Larry agrees with the petition. “If they’re going to put anybody’s name on it, it should be him.” When Russell Goddard was only 8 years old, Danny gave him 50 cents to deliver food up the block. When Russell showed his friends the money, they were all impressed. He said, “I was the richest person in the neighborhood!” Decades later, Russell is still working at Defontes. A petition to rename a block of Columbia Street will appear in front of the Community Board 6 (CB6) Transportation Committee on Thursday, January 21.
Nearly two decades later, Spanky is a regular at Defontes. Late last year, when Danny passed away in December, Spanky was at all of the viewings and services. “They always made sure I was okay,” he said. “I’m ever grateful for them.”
To change the street name, 5001,000 signatures are needed. Once approved by CB6, the petition will move to the City Council. Spanky estimates that he already has enough – approximately 550 – but will continue to collect signatures at Defontes until the CB6 meeting.
To honor Danny, Spanky started a petition to rename a block after him. The block from Commerce to Luquer Streets on Columbia would be called Daniel J. Defonte Way. Spanky said he didn’t want it to be street or place because, “it was his Way that set us straight.”
Danny Defonte worked at the store for 55 years, 6 days a week. “Like the postmaster,” Nicky said. “Pain in his legs, snow, rain – it didn’t matter. He was here every day. He was a tough guy. Tough!” Danny retired at age 72.
Current owner, “Little Nicky” Defonte was delighted about the idea. “If anybody deserves this it’s [Danny]. It’s a beautiful thing that they want to honor my father like this.”
Red Hook Star-Revue
Daniel Defonte was featured in an advertisement for Ruppert's Beer. (photos courtesy of the Defonte family)
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“To work with my father was an honor,” Nicky said. “He affected so many young people in this neighborhood. I didn’t realize until my father passed away the effect he had on [Spanky] and so many others.”
January 2016, Page 7
Remembering 2015 JANUARY
The Star-Revue speculates that the Red Hook container port may be relocated to South Brooklyn Marine Terminal in Sunset Park based on a series of decisions by EDC. Meanwhile, Port Authority introduced the ship-to-rail initiative called the Cross Harbor Freight Program, which would only be accessible at the Sunset Park terminal. Joan Millman’s retirement became effective; Rocky Sullivan’s offered a breakfast menu; and Cora Dance debuted at BAM Fisher.
FEBRUARY
City Planning released a report on Red Hook’s streets, including weeds and trash on sidewalks, express bus service to Manhattan, improvements to bus shelters, improved signage, repairing cobblestones. Stronger Together emerged as a service to assist non-profits to offer free job training and placement, adult education, and support services. Brooklyn Stage Company’s Endgame performed at Sunny’s; The 76th Precinct welcomed a new CO, Natalie Maldonado; readers responed to Est4te Four’s newest renderings.
MARCH
Brooklyn Bridge Park Community Advisory Council presented a new alternative for Pier 6 which would include a major entrance at the end of Atlantic Avenue. Pile driving in Red Hook becomes a major concern – and annoyance – as new real estate projects are constructed. Dell’s maraschino factory was raided by officials and police. Large quantities of marijuana, expensive cars, and oddball literature were found in the basement. Owner, Arthur Mondella shot and killed himself in the bathroom The Star-Revue remembers Frances D’Angelo and John Burkard; PS 15’s photography debut at Hope & Anchor; and Andrea McKnight retires from community board
APRIL
Red Hook ball fields 5-8 tested positive for elevated levels of lead found in EPA samples from October 2014. Further testing was conducted to determine what kind of future cleanup is required. After 30 months of operation, ReStore Red Hook “sang her swan song,” announcing completion of their mission of Sandy recovery work. Star-Revue wins two prestigious awards at NY Press Association’s Spring convention. Columnist Mark Shames won Honorable Mention in Best Column. Micah Rubin placed first in Best Picture Story. The Blue Pencil Lunar-Revue made her annual appearance of spoofiness reporting on such topics as a colonial Dutchman found in Coffey Park 3 centuries later, a ferris wheel and heliport proposal for Valentino Park, and a road trip for the Waterfront Museum
MAY
City Comptroller, Scott Stringer release a scathing 87-page report on Bring It Back called “A Cse Study in Dysfunction.” The report showed that consultants made millions, while homeowners received nothing. The report highlighted mismanagement, theft, fraud by contractors, and poor decision making. Brooklyn Public Library held a full-day workshop to glean community input on the future of the Red Hook Library. The project was called a Community Engagement Lab, and flyers read “Dream a New Future for your Library.” Summit Academy held their first annual awards banquet honoring people from Red Hook with a lifetime of service to the community. Carlos Menchaca gave the key note speech. Honorees included Judith Daly, Frances Brown, Pete Morales, Costco, Mark’s Pizza, Kevin’s and D&H Grill and Grocery.
JUNE
Fortis Property Group unveiled plans for skyscrapers at the former LICH site during a Cobble Hill Association meeting – to the horror and astonishment of residents. The Star-Revue celebrates 5 years of publishing! PS 15 participated in Big Idea Week. Mentors from local businesses worked with students to exchange inspiration for problem solving, taking risks, and innovation. Dance Theater Etc. held the 22nd Annual Red Hook Fest; Buddy Scotto was honored at Veteran’s breakfast; and Summer Stage performed a week of shows in Red Hook Park July
Page 8 Red Hook Star-Revue
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January 2016
JULY
Plans were unveiled for a 9-story nursing home beside Pioneer Works at a monthly Civics Association meeting. The much disputed facility requires community approval for rezoning of three lots. SBIDC closed down Van Brunt Street for Red Hook Walks, a street fair with local merchants, sidewalk cafes, live music and games. Dead Moon, a 1980s garage punk band kicked off Pioneer Works’ weekly summer concert series. The show was their only New York stop, and tickets sold out in three hours. The Star-Revue’s annual Celebrating Red Hook brought 70+ local merchants and 9 Brooklynbased bands to the IKEA park for a fun filled day of food, music, shopping and fireworks.
AUGUST
Infinity Design, the construction company barricaded the entire sidewalk at 307 Van Brunt without creating safe passage for pedestrians. Community members raised concerns, forcing DOT to issue summonses if the violations were not corrected. The EPA announced that ball fields 5-8 would be closed for up to 3 years due to contamination. Assistant District Manager, Leroy Branch retired from CB6, after accepting a position at the Department of Transportation.
SEPTEMBER
EDC announced that the commuter ferry slated to be operational by 2017 - would be placed at the end of the Beard Street Pier, as opposed to a more accessible place like the Atlantic Basin. After a heated meeting, EDC decided to reconsider their Red Hook options Carlos Menchaca speaks out against the Oxford Nursing home location after community criticism, as well as "the potential for increased traffic, flooding, and utility burdens."
Menchaca's office also announced that the $2.4 million originally reserved for bathrooms in Valentino Park began the initial stages of planning. His constituents in Red Hook will help decide how the money will be spent. Red Hook gets its very own record shop; John McGill's documentary, John McGill Banned, showed at Atelier Roquette.
OCTOBER Religious columnist Laura Eng and Senior Editor Kimberly G. Price were among the privileged few to watch Pope Francis' arrival into JFK. NYCHA announced long overdue renovations to the Red Hook Senior Center. They blamed the delay on having problems finding a contractor who would offer a reasonable bid. Est4te Four and Durst Organization submitted proposals for EDC's RFP for the Atlantic Basin. The 2015-16 Participatory Budgeting season began; Ben Schneider and Carlos Vogel hilariously interview themselves about their upcoming projects; and Red Hook celebrates another epic Barnacle Parade
NOVEMBER
Pathmark on Hamilton Avenue was auctioned off at A&P's bankruptcy sale. Very little information was available on the new owners, a real estate company named Joyland Group, LLC.
DECEMBER
Although the CB6 Landmark committee voted 11-5, with one abstention against the Oxford Nursing Home, the full CB 6 vote approved it. Developer Jared Della Valle offers free park space to build sewage retention tanks while maximizing park space. Jin An Liu was fatally struck by a tree that was being cut down in Coffey Park while delivering a food order from Ling Gee.
Compiled by Kimberly Gail Price
Publisher's Notebook, by Kimberly Gail Price
A
tired ending; a fresh beginning. The New Year swept in mere days after the old one started. Time rolls through. There is no stopping it; there is no reprieve from its continuance. How do we commemorate our moments of time? All of us have a birthday to commemorate our individual counting of years. Anniversaries mark time between events of all kinds. Weddings, major life changes, relinquishing bad habits. New Year’s Day is one of the only that the world celebrates collectively. Balls drop on the final countdown from one time zone to the next. 3, 2, 1… HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! But what are we really celebrating? The last minute of 2015 really wasn’t drastically different from the first minute of 2016. I was holding the same drink in both moments. I was still the same person between time markers. So, what are we celebrating? What makes the new year such a big deal? Are we really so enchanted with the Gregorian calendar to allow it to decide our beginnings and ends? I believe that our human minds are capable of giving this moment power to make changes within ourselves. We make promises to ourselves to become better beings. To improve our lives. To attain that far-away goal that will provoke happiness and accomplishment. The Resolution. What’s the resolution this year? Is it the same as last year’s failed attempt? Is it
Red Hook Star-Revue
A New Resolve
something new? Can I even remember last year’s? Did I make one at all? This year, I don’t have a resolution; that is my resolution. Last year, I planned on adding one new food to my diet that I don’t eat on a regular basis. Bananas, spinach… By year’s end, I would be eating 52 new foods that don’t normally appear in my diet of chicken tenders and mozzarella sticks. I didn’t make it through the second week. I still don’t eat bananas and spinach regularly. So what’s my plan this year? There are tons of things I do that maybe I should think about letting go of. Irrational delivery orders from Popeyes, procrastinating, speeding, all-nighters. All of these things are rooted in depriving myself of something. And seriously, four days into 2016, I’ve already indulged in every single one of these things. This year, I’ve decided to add to my life. Things that I’ve been talking about doing for decades. Things that last year, I just didn’t make time for. Things that feed my spirit. I haven’t made a list; I don’t want these things to be obligations – “I said I would, and now I have to… Otherwise, I’ve broken my resolution.” Somehow, this rather arbitrary goal of mine has already been absorbed into my emotional self. I’m excited about getting out of the house each day. I look forward to pockets of opportunity to do live my life a little more whimsically. Some of these things are so random. For example, I prefer even numbers. When I stop for coffee, I always use an
even number of flavored creamers. It could be four, six, sometimes even eight of those sticky, diabetes-inducing indulgences. Usually, it’s a mix of hazelnut and vanilla. Maybe three of each, as long as the total comes out to be an even number – six. Today, I dumped in four hazelnuts. But only three vanillas. Seven is an odd number! Coffee creamers are trivial. But for me, maybe it’s a little bit more. It’s a break from my obsessiveness with even numbers. A change of habit from the old norm. A chance to break away from the challenges that lead me to ruts of consistency. We are defined by our habits. The character of our foundation is based on thoughts, actions and words. This year, I’m not trying to become someone new – a more perfect version of myself. I am challenging myself to do and be more. More adventurous. Give myself more opportunity. Dive into those forgotten passions that inspired me. I want to create newness based on the limitations of the old – limitations I set, and only I can revamp. In four days, I’ve done more than probably the entire month of November 2015. I’ve been more productive because I wanted to be. I pulled out my paints for the first time in nearly two years, even though the apartment wasn’t immaculate – last year’s rule. I’m writing this editorial days in advance of the paper’s deadline. Maybe I’ll go for a run. Or build a snowman. I might sign up for an improve
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class. Learn to play my father’s guitar. I could spend a whole day in a movie theater. Break out the crayons and coloring books. Join a book club. I’ll wear my rose-colored sunglasses on rainy days. Indulgence is what I choose for myself in 2016. Every day in big ways, as well as the small ones. All because four days ago, I watched a glowing orb descend upon all of the opportunities from last year that squandered. That spark has enveloped my attitude. This year, I will let it define my habits. Next year, perhaps my character will be more fulfilled. I challenge you to let go of the idea of recreating a more perfect version of you. Instead, live fully. Indulge more in your passions and pleasantries – those things that your heart wants, but the hectic schedules impede. Happy New Year!
January 2016, Page 9
LETTERS: Observations
Mark’s
Corner
I have lived on Van Dyke Street since 2004. Since Sandy I have observed the following:
BY MARK SHAMES
We have a better mayor than some think
NYC - by nearly all objective measures - is doing great, so why is the Mayor’s approval rating down? Here is my year-end piece dealing with the recent past, Punditry and Prognostication. It is the time of year that we have set aside for such purposes; I am obliging.
tus quo. They exist to advocate and agitate.
The City budget is in greater monetary surplus than anticipated. Unemployment has plummeted, despite a growing population. Under any accounting, crime remains historically low, despite the abandonment of the quota for police stops and substantial reduction in such encounters.
As accomplished as I believe this administration has been so far, I do not find it to be flawless. Mayor de Blasio surely needs a better alarm clock both for showing up punctually, as well as filling middle and low level positions. His administration is also slow in responding to other public officials. The administration has been slow to pick up on dissatisfaction with implementation of its homeless policy. However, the administration has been willing to examine its deficiencies and attempt to correct them.
The free full-time Pre-K program is expanding again without any serious glitches. With the correction officers contract just negotiated all of the major unions now have contracts and non-unionized City employees just got family leave by executive order. The City’s identification card (IDNYC) is extremely useful and has been launched successfully. As the Governor continues to belittle the Mayor, Cuomo also continues to adopt his most popular policies i.e. the increase in the minimum wage that has just kicked in. Yet, it remains the best of times and the worst of times. Good times have brought ever-greater demand for apartments, while the remaining rent protected housing in the City is being whittled away with each move-out and buy-out. The housing crisis also expresses itself as a homeless crisis. While unemployment has gone down, salaries for the average worker have not yet gone up, and worker budgets are busted by housing costs. It was to be expected that those most tied to the wealth friendly Bloomberg era would take continuing credit for what is good and remain skeptical of the current mayor. It is to be expected that those who lost the last election, even those within de Blasio’s own party, and who lost their political jobs and favor - would snipe at the mayor. It was also to be expected that those who most closely identify with police officers would be antagonistic to a mayor seeking to reform the department. What may surprise the casual observer is the criticism that de Blasio is taking from advocacy groups with whom he has been closely aligned. In part, he has raised expectations beyond possible performance; in part, these groups exist to oppose any sta-
Page 10 Red Hook Star-Revue
The mayor is, therefore, left with few cheerleaders despite much to cheer about. If no policy or performance can be acknowledged as good enough by his allies, then no mayor can be deemed successful.
Going into the New Year, I anticipate the greatest problem for de Blasio will be gaining support to implement his housing policy. The administration keeps suggesting that the problem has been its inability to adequately explain the policy. I wish I agreed with that assessment, but I think the problem is rooted in an unhappy reality - not public relations. What we want in terms of cost, amenities and “livability” cannot be delivered; what is promised in terms of enforcement of the rent laws is not trusted. I have done my best to convey my view of this reality. But the comments I get back in print and in person reject this reality and insist that some alternate truth must exist. Without realistic alternatives, wishful thinking seems to be the only suggestion offered. Think happy thoughts. I forecast a continued but gradual success for the administration caused by a slowing economy. Such success will be highlighted by the passage of mandatory affordable zoning text amendment albeit in somewhat revised form. Unfortunately, I suspect new policy will be accompanied by a continuation of suppressed approval ratings for a mayor who deserves accolades. Dissatisfaction and unease will continue to prevail, as our struggle to maintain our quality of life in a challenging city casts a shadow over the future. As my wife often says, “They’re sucking the life out of it.” It is not clear who “they” are, but surely that is the perception. And Happy New Year.
1-The parking lot on Van Dyke with entrance on Beard st has a business and every night they start with a fork lift BEEPING (backing up) all night. Help. I cant sleep and I'm sure these businesses are illegal. 2- Buses are repaired and idle all day in the same parking lot 3- A dog pound and poor dogs bark all day and are outside in the heat. Probably cold soon. 4- The craziest building now occupies a parking lot on Coffey off Van Brunt. Piles of slate are stacked on the sidewalk. It’s worth a photo. I can take pictures for you. - Mike Howard
Public Letter from Nydia Velazquez to the Parks Commissioner Dear Commissioner Silver:
I write to you regarding a recent incident in New York’s 7th Congressional District where a bicycle deliveryman died after being hit by a tree that was being cut down by contractors hired by the Parks Department. As you know, in November, Jing Liu was on his way to deliver food from the restaurant where he worked when he was hit by a falling tree being cut down by Parks Department contractors in Red Hook’s Coffey Park. Mr. Liu died from his injuries two days later. Obviously, this is a profound tragedy for our entire community. It also raises serious safety concerns. According to media reports the firm involved failed to follow a number of existing safety rules. For example, crews are expected to work in groups of four, but according to press reports, the com-
pany was using only a two-person team. It has also been publicly reported that the area was not properly secured with cones and tape and Parks Department oversight was lacking. It is my understanding that the Parks Department has terminated its relationship with the contractor involved in this incident. However, it is important we ensure similar events do not take place in the future and that safety protocols are up to date, effective and being followed. In that regard, I would respectfully ask for answers to the following questions:
• What specific safety protocols and guidelines are contractors employed by the Parks Department to cut down and remove trees and branches required to follow? • How are contractors and their employers informed of these protocols and trained in how to observe them? • As a matter of standard operating procedure, how frequently are these protocols regularly reviewed and updated? • It was reported in the media on November 30th that the Parks Department was conducting a review of its safety regulations. Is that review complete and what was the outcome of the Department’s analysis? What changes are being instituted? If the review is not complete, when will the results be made publicly available? I know you share my commitment to public safety. I therefore look forward to your response to these timely questions. If you or your staff have questions about this inquiry, please contact my staff at 202-225-2361. Sincerely, Nydia M. Velázquez
IDNYC
NEW "POP-UP" ENROLLMENT SITE SITIO DE INSCRIPCIÓN TEMPORAL
IDNYC is the newly launched New York City municipal identification program. All New York City residents 14 years and older who reside in New York City's five boroughs are eligible for the ID, regardless of immigration status.
RED HOOK COMMUNITY JUSTICE CENTER 88 VISITATION PLACE BROOKLYN, NY 11231 JANUARY 5 – JANUARY 29, 2016 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon, Wed., Fri. | (Lunes, Miércoles, y Viernes) 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tues. and Thurs. | (Martes y Jueves) Closed on Jan. 18 for MLK Day/ Cerrado el 18 de enero por Día de MLK On the last day the site will close at noon. (Este sitio cerrará a las 12 el último día.)
IDNYC es el programa de identificación
Transportation:
municipal de la Ciudad de
B61 Van Brunt St./Verona St F/G Smith-9th Street
Nueva York. Todos los residentes de la Ciudad de Nueva York que tienen al menos 14 años de edad y que residan en los cinco condados de la ciudad de Nueva York son elegibles para la identificación, sin importar su estatus migratorio.
APPOINTMENTS PREFERRED; WALK-INS NOT GUARANTEED. DE PREFERENCIA HAGA SU CITA; NO SE GARANTIZA VISITAS SIN CITA.
To make an appointment visit our website: www.nyc.gov/idnyc or call 311 Para hacer cita visite nuestro sitio de web: www.nyc.gov/idnyc o llame al 311 READ MORE ABOUT IDNYC CARD BENEFITS LEE MÁS SOBRE BENEFICIOS DE IDNYC
Bill de Blasio Mayor
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@IDNYC
IDNYC
ID.NYC
January 2016
Ferry thoughts
That Crazy World of Politics by George Fiala
Brooklynites were shocked last week to see freshman State Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon gracing the cover of the Daily News. The shock was in seeing her face as the subject of a tweet by the National Rifle Association, ringed threateningly with bullets - two of them pointed directly at her.
She is generally mild mannered and probably the last person one would expect to be the subject of a vendetta by anyone, except perhaps one of her Doug Biviano, who also ran for the Assembly seat. Borough President Eric Adams, in a spirited defense of Simon, explained
Red Hook Star-Revue
Last year, Red Hookers were surprised to find out that the location they were considering was not the obvious one, in the centrally located and publicly owned Atlantic Basin, but on private property all the way out into the river at the end of Beard Street. The community made their opinions known to EDC in it's typical pointed way, hoping they would change their plans. A preliminary proposal is due out next month.
Simon and fellow legislator, Roxanne Persaud, drew NRA ire for introducing a bill into the state legislature calling for the placing of limits on the amount of ammunition gun owners could purchase in a 90 day period. Simon is a Boerum Hill lawyer and long-time community activist. She served as District Leader for a number of years and finally won election to the Assembly, succeeding her mentor Joan Millman.
The NYC Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has been tasked to expand citywide ferry service. One of the stops they have been told to include is in Red Hook.
Word has leaked out that indeed, EDC has given some second thoughts to their original plan. It is said that Atlantic Basin is indeed being consid-
Ferry interesting!
ered. A ship was noticed drilling for boring samples in the Basin, presumably assessing the possibility of a ferry dock placement. The same ship was also seen at the foot of Conover Street. But based upon the photo we took of that same operation being performed next to the Fairway Water Taxi station, we think they may attempt a compromise by placing the ferry behind Fairway. We'll know in a month or so.
Luxury Hotel planned? that the bill presented was simply a starting point in a discussion. Gun advocates, who despise any gun regulations, were incensed at the number of rounds of ammo that would be allowed for purchase. And as usual, they overreacted in what most would call a sickening way. On the other hand, this is the most publicity that Simon has yet received in her young political career.
The blog New York Yimby reports that plans have been filed by the owner of the lot at 411 Van Brunt Street to build a five story hotel. The lot is in an IBZ zone, and was purchased by a real estate developer in 2008, but has remained undeveloped. One of the criticisms of the IBZ is that while it is meant to help preserve manufacturing space, it allows for hotels to be built "as of right." Most probably the developer has been holding onto the lot in hopes the zon-
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ing would eventually turn residential. Instead, there are moves in the council to tighten the zoning, removing the hotel exception - which Yimby speculates is the reason for the filing. John McGettrick notes that the plans call for unusually spacious 736 sq. ft. hotel rooms, which leads him to suspect they would be turned into luxury condos in some future time.
January 2016, Page 11
Familiar Red Hook face becomes Criminal Court Judge by Amanda Berman, Esq., Red Hook Community Justice Center
W
e are thrilled to announce that Karen Gopee, Court Attorney at the Red Hook Community Justice Center, was recently appointed to serve as a Criminal Court Judge here in New York City. Karen served as Judge Calabrese's Court Attorney since 2006, playing a critical role in the Court as well as the community over the past nine years. Karen brought to her work a
unique combination of compassion, fairness, and true passion for serving this community. Her commitment to the community was evident through every aspect of her work, whether in the courtroom, a conference room, or on the basketball courts of the Miccio. Many community members came to know her through her prominent role in our Housing Court, where she worked closely with Judge Calabrese,
NYCHA, our Housing Resource Center, and individual tenants to address needed repairs, rental arrears and related issues in order to successfully resolve cases and assist tenants in need. She also forged community partnerships that brought opportunities to local youth and tried to bridge the gap between the Police and the Community. She brought the Manhattan District Attorney's "Saturday
Karen Gopee signing the judges book at City Hall. (photo courtesy Gopee)
Night Lights" basketball program to the Miccio, and worked with Project Boost to provide educational and theatre opportunities to youth around the City. Karen immigrated to the United States from Trinidad at the age of one. She grew up in East New York, attended public school and graduated from Binghamton University and St. John's Law School. She served as a Prosecutor in the Kings County District Attorney's office for seven and half years and as a Court Attorney for the last ten years. Although she led a distinguished career before coming to Red Hook, Karen often remarks that of all of her accomplishments, she is most proud of the work she did in Red Hook. Working with Judge Calabrese, and in partnership with the Center for Court Innovation, she feels she was able to have a real impact on people's lives by improving their court experience and addressing their underlying issues through the programs and services offered at the Justice Center. The Justice Center will miss Karen tremendously, but we are thrilled that she has received this much deserved appointment and look forward to seeing her bring all of her talents and unique perspective to this new and important position.
Page 12 Red Hook Star-Revue
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January 2016
December a busy month for Red Hook nursing home proposal
D
ecember was a busy month for the Oxford Nursing Home as they made presentations at two community board meeting and a public hearing held by the Brooklyn Borough President’s ULURP office. They are trying to push through what some consider a spot zoning change on property they own across from Pioneer Works. They have owned the property since 2003 with plans to move their existing Fort Greene facility to a new building in Red Hook. They first revealed their plans for a large, nine story building at a meeting of the Red Hook Civic Association last summer. Reactions were mixed, with many feeling that such a large structure was out of context for the neighborhood, while others felt it an opportunity for local employment and increased business activity. Oxford’s proposal is in the ULURP process, which begins with the local community board, proceeds through the Borough President’s office and City Planning, ending up with a final vote in the City Council. Our Councilman, Carlos Menchaca, has already gone on record against the project, citing the foolhardiness of building a home for 200 seniors in what is now deemed a flood area by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Community Board 6 (CB 6) has given its blessing to the project, despite an initial committee hearing at which the proposal was rejected. At that December 3rd meeting, held at PS 27,
by George Fiala
Shames spoke of the importance of keeping nursing homes in Brooklyn to take care of our aging population. At the end of the meeting, a vote of 11-5 was cast against the proposal. However, a week later, at the CB6 General Meeting, that vote was overturned by the full board. CB 6 includes members from the larger community, including Carroll Gardens, Park Slope and Cobble Hill, and the Red Hook voice was submerged. There were many complaints about that turnabout at the December Red Hook Civic Association The Borough President held their meeting shortly afterwards, on December 22 at Brooklyn Borough Hall. Many Red Hookers were taken by surprise at the meeting scheduled right before Christmas, but a last minute flurry of social and in-person net-
“Why did you buy in a manufacturing area? Why did you buy the land is was not zoned right.” “Did you even consider other locations.”
many speakers spoke passionately against the increased traffic, loss of both sky and manufacturing opportunities that would accompany the building. Mary Dudine-Kyle, proprietor of Van Brunt’s Dry Dock Wines and Spirit called it a “monstrosity,” dropped onto us from the sky and totally out of character with the neighborhood many have grown to love. Rick Russo, representing the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, spoke of the importance of supporting Brooklyn businesses. Local real-estate developer Marshall Sohne called it an example of illegal spot zoning, while Mark
Red Hook Star-Revue
ity in their proposal. The plan actually calls for two buildings - one to house 200 patients, and the other built for lease to a medical facility. A number of the questions could not be immediately answered by Martins, and they were questions nobody had previously thought to ask. She wanted to know whether they could build a shorter building were a diagnostic facility not included. Perhaps the most telling unanswered question concerned the original pur-
chase of the land by the nursing home. “Why did you buy in a manufacturing area? Why did you buy the land is was not zoned right.” “Did you even consider other locations.” She answered her own question, saying it was a chipping away of an industrial zone. The Borough President has not yet issued their decision, and the application is not yet on the calendar of the Department of City Planning.
working brought a sizable local crowd out to the public hearing. Attorney Nora Martins, of the lobbying firm Davidoff Hutcher and Citron, LLC, representing Oxford, made her presentation to a panel headed by deputy Borough President Diana Reyna. Martins stressed job opportunities that would be provided in both the construction and operation of the nursing home. She promised local hiring and sourcing of products, ample parking, and sustainable building in the flood zone. During the presentation, Borough President Eric Adams arrived, saying that he wanted to hear for himself what Red Hook was saying. “It’s important for me to hear from the community - lets learn from each other,” he said.
Borough President Eric Adams
Deputy Borough President Diana Reyna questions Oxford''s Nora Martins.
Mary Dudine-Kyle proclaims her disbelief at the Oxford proposal. (photos by Fiala)
HOT BAGELS IS A HIGHLIGHT OF OUR MIXED USE NEIGHBORHOOD by George Fiala
Councilmember Menchaca also sat on the panel. He spoke briefly, repeating his position against this particular proposal. He said that he had met with the Oxford principals on multiple occasions, and pledged his support to find them a space, but not in Red Hook at this site. Many of the locals who came out to the first CB 6 meeting showed up this night again to express their views. But the highlight of the evening was Reyna’s on point questioning. It was obvious that she had done her homework. Reyna is a former City Councilwoman who joined the Eric Adams administration after serving 12 years in the Council representing Bushwick and Williamsburg. She has been an advocate for the manufacturing sector. She focused right in on Oxford’s need for including a large diagnostic facil-
Hot Bagels occupies a small part of the city block on which the proposed nursing home would be built. It will stay whether or not the home is built. We often stop there on the way to work and have grown to love the hot coffee and toasted whole wheat croissant with butter. It's also where
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we get our Daily News. They serve the working people of Red Hook with breakfast and lunch. Everybody else goes there as well. We love watching Rosa (above) barking out the complicated orders in Spanish to the cooks in the back. She rarely gets it wrong.
January 2016, Page 13
Theatre Uzume offers opportunities for the creative-minded by Halley Bondy
C
alling all Red Hook actors, musicians, directors, stagehands and creatives! You don’t have to trek to Manhattan to find your livelihood anymore. The theater tide is shifting – or at least detouring -- to Brooklyn, with companies like the new Theatre Uzume seeking artists for avant garde productions. Now entering its third year, Theatre Uzume stages bold productions featuring magical realism elements, as well as every artistic discipline under the sun including dance, acting, video, music, and fashion design. The company is currently looking for artists of all trades to join in. “If you like telling stories and you want to reach a broader audience, invite us to check out your work,” said founder Suzanne Karpinski. “We’re always looking for new people to collaborate with.” Named after the Shinto goddess of mirth and revelry, Theatre Uzume aims to launch its third lush production, Lamia, in April. Lamia is an adaptation of a John Keats poem, which tells a woeful Greek tragedy of a woman who falls in love with a man – only she’s stuck in a snake’s body. Dance and music is integral to the piece, but this is hardly a traditional musical. Most of the material from Theatre Uzume stems from improvisational workshopping, giving the score an ex-
perimental Philip Glass vibe. Though it all sounds like a highminded mouthful, the foundations of Uzume are simple and staggeringly DIY. Uzume is one of a new legion of small theater companies cropping up in New York in the absence of affordable permanent theater spaces. Though it is a registered non-profit, Uzume operates project-by-project rather than as an eternal institution. Productions have taken place everywhere from circus schools to dance studios.
NYC artists face challenges
Karpanski studied at The New School, where, like most theater students, she was able to work in a free space and a nurturing environment. After graduation however, real world New York proved unforgiving. Though she gleaned plenty of directing experience on Manhattan stages like The Flea and HERE Arts Center, staging original productions in the downtown scene proved intensely costly and political. Karpanski launched Theatre Uzume not only to stage the productions she liked, but also to invigorate Brooklyn theater culture. While venues like The Brick Theater, Triskelion Arts and Bushwick Starr provide fantastic performance spaces in Brooklyn, the borough’s branding is still off within the theater community.
“There’s still a stigma that says you’re not a legitimate theater artist unless you’re working in Manhattan,” Karpinski said. “We want to make it okay for theater art to happen in Brooklyn, and to draw artists to Brooklyn, instead of making it a place where you wind up.”
Musicians General Store
When she isn’t running Theatre Uzume and directing its productions, Karpanski lives in Bed-Stuy and works full-time as a piano teacher at the Musician’s General Store in Carroll Gardens. A core of about five artists work consistently with Uzume, and most participants have many other commitments. “We work in little capsules,” Karpanski said. “We establish a schedule that everyone can work with, and we hold workshops where we generate raw material. We’ve actually been working on Lamia for a year and a half.” Beyond Lamia, which will open at the Morris Dance Center in April, Karpanski plans to explore more ideas, productions, and festivals. Mainly, however, she is seeking collaborators who will bring new ideas to the table. If you’re a writer with a non-realism background, or if you already have a fantasy, horror, or a highly poeticized manuscript, this company is for you. If you’re a video artist or sound designer interested in multimedia theater, this
Suzanne Karpinski
company is also for you. If you’re a musician with composing acumen and a penchant for jamming, you will be right at home here, too. Basically, if you’re a talented artist of any description - and you’re a little bit weird - the Uzume crew wants to meet you. If you’re interested in joining Theatre Uzume or finding out more, check out www.theatreuzume.com. Actors should send their resumes, portfolios and headshots to theatreuzume@ gmail.com, while playwrights and any other artists should send in samples of their work.
Christmas in Red Hook While we are still waiting our first snowfall, there was no lack of Christmas spirit in the neighborhood this year. The Red Hook Lion's Club, led by Jay and Andrea McKnight, hosted their annual toy giveaway at the Miccio Center. Community Board 6's Holiday Party was held at Court Street's Lobo, and featured remarks by Assembly Member Jo Ann Simon, prior to her becoming a national figure. Henry Marante sponsored a food-filled New Year's party at the VFW (attended by our own Kimberly Gail Price). And an impressive star-lighting was held at the auspicious Sacred Heart/St. Stephen's Church on Summit Street. And perhaps the best annual tradition is the Van Brunt Street manger (occasionally graced with a stray cat or two) created by Sue and Annette Amendola.
Page 14 Red Hook Star-Revue
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January 2016
Carroll Gardens social club remembers veterans by Mary Anne Pietanza
The Van Westerhout Cittadini Molesi Club, on Court Street and 4th Place, is the first Italian-American organization to make a contribution to the Wounded Warriors Project, a project born after September 11th. The Project has grown to include locations across the country. New York volunteers sponsor a four-day event each year that includes a walk from Staten Island to Breezy Point where wounded servicemen are treated to games, fishing, and sporting events. Wounded Warriors is also largely responsible for providing Brendan Marocco, a wounded veteran from Staten Island who lost all his limbs, with a special-needs house built to accommodate his limitations. He also received Johns Hopkins Hospital's first bilateral arm transplant. As part of their first Christmas Party fund raising event, the Van Westerhout Molese members raised enough money to present a $1,000 check to Wounded Warriors’ representatives and volunteers Gary Fumara and John Gallo. They are both Vietnam veterans and residents of Staten Island. Fumara and Gallo and their wives, along with volunteer couples, the McMillens, and Vorvecks, actively
L to R: Domenic Nuzzi; Gary Fumar of WWP; Vito Parente,President Molese Club; Gianni Deserio; Vito Gentile, and John Gallo of WWP.
work to raise funds for and nurture spirit, dropped off toys and gifts to the these young men back to civilian life children on Saturday, December 19th. despite their injuries. The holiday event was held SaturThough the charitable organization is day, December 12, 2015. In the past, a young one, Mr. Gallo noted that the Christmas parties at the club were Molese Club was the first Italian orga- a celebration of holiday and family. nization he knew of to contribute to With new meaning and purpose in their cause. He was overwhelmed to their mission as a social club, memreceive a phone call from Vito Parente, bers and guests added a larger elethe club’s president, offering him such ment of giving to the festivities for those in need. a generous Christmas donation. Funds were also raised to benefit patients of New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital. The Washington Heights hospital ranks "among the top in the nation for children’s care in every speciality evaluated in the U.S.”, according to U.S. News & World Report magazine. The “elves” of the Molese Club, armed with an abundance of Christmas
At the fund raising dinner, raffle baskets played a key part in addition to the food and musical entertainment. Family members Felicia Nuzzi, Gianni and Marisa Deserio, Stephanie Parente, Peter Mancini, Luisa Deserio, and Angela D’Onofroio helped in requisitioning and decoratively wrapping the numerous community donations, including a flat screen TV.
Red Hook Winery picked by British wholesaler
The British trade publication Harpers Wine & Spirit Trade News reports that Red Hook Winery has been selected to supply NY State wines by the exclusive UK wholesaler Flint Wines. The article quotes Sam Clarke, American buyer at Flint Wines, who is quoted saying "The quality of the wines coming out of Red Hook is unlike anything else that we have tasted from the East Coast." He goes on to say "We are not only confident that people will be surprised to taste what is possible in New York, but also that these wines will firmly establish New York as a serious area on the map of quality wine regions of the USA." Red Hook Winery sources grapes from the Finger Lakes upstate and the North Fork on Long Island.
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January 2016, Page 15
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January 2016