Red hook star revue march 2014 by George Fiala

The MARCH 2014

Red Hook StarªRevue SOUTH BROOKLYN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

FREE

Red Hook to vote on PB projects by Kimberly Gail Price

orty-six proposals in District 38 have been submitted for 2014 Participatory Budgeting Process (PBP) season. Ten of those projects are in Red Hook. PBP is a process that enables community members to submit ideas for projects in their district to be funded by discretionary funds allocated by their local councilperson. Former Councilwoman, Sara Gonzalez allocated $2 million - double the amount of any other district - in September 2013. When Carlos Menchaca replaced her, he also agreed to continue the process in District 38. Volunteers work for months to turn the suggestions into proposals that detail the timeline, feasibility and cost of each. Once the proposals have been submitted, each district creates an expo and invites residents to learn more about each proposal. After the expos, the top proposals will be chosen by votes in late March and early April. Any resident age 16 and older who resides within the district is eligible to vote for their three favorite projects. The implementation of the chosen ones will begin in May. Red Hook counts for a much smaller percentage of District 38. The majority of landmass and population is in Sunset Park, which means that the likelihood

of more projects being chosen in that neighborhood is likely. Voter turnout will play a key role in which projects are funded. District 38’s Project Expo will be held on Saturday, March 15 from 12-3 pm at the Sunset Park Recreation Center on 7th Avenue and 43rd Street. To date there has not been an expo scheduled in the vicinity of Red Hook. The proposed projects for Red Hook are: • A garden at the Red Hook Library • Transition space between Carroll Gardens and Red Hook along the BQE • Flood lighting for the Red Hook track area on Bay Street • Safety zone lighting in along Henry Street between Lorraine and Bay Street, and Lorraine Street between Hicks and Henry Street • An upgrade of the basketball courts at the NYCHA houses • Community boards outside of NYCHA developments • An outdoor fitness park • An outdoor fitness park and skate park • Air conditioning for the PS 15 auditorium • Technology upgrades for PS 15.

Sheryl Braxton gives a thumb’s up to the camera as she works with District 38’s PBP. (photo courtesy Carlos Menchaca’s office)

Make your voices heard by learning more about each project at and encouraging neighbors and friends to vote. Voting dates and locations for District 38 have not yet been announced.

Councilmen Brad Lander (D-39) and Steven Levin (D-33) have also allocated PBP funds and will be holding expos this month. For more information about projects or expos visit pbnyc.org.

Theater Review: Heights Players production shines by Kimberly Gail Price “A Delicious Soufflé of Satire” NY Times “All of us, the creative people, tearing about trying to feed a nations insatiable appetite for entertainment. Making truckloads of money we never see so we can discover something new and vivid to present to poor fun-starved modern civilization. The new becoming old almost before we find the newer new… as bees in honey drown.” ~ Alexa to Evan Douglass Carter Bean’s As Bees in Honey Drown is a satirical comedy that was nominated for a Tony Award in 2007 for Best Play. It has been revived by the Heights Players and opened on February 28 with high expectations and provides virtually no letdowns. Evan Wyler is a new writer in town. Al-

exa Vere de Vere is the promiser of all Evan’s dreams and more. Evan, played by Scot Cahoon, has tasted his first morsel of fame. As a young naïve talent, he is quickly taken in by glamorous and worldly Alexa, played by Kathryn Stevens. As a struggling artist, Evan’s eyes light up at the prospect of fame and fortune. Evan eventually ends up paying for all of the expenses, although Alexa has promised to reimburse him with cash, hiding this from Evan’s agent. Alexa eventually seduces Evan psychologically, emotionally and physically, despite the fact that Evan is gay. Alexa tells him “You’re not the person you were born - who wonderful is? You’re the person you were meant to be.”

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Although the audience is not fooled by Alexa’s trickery, Evan certainly is. Only a brute force can knock sense into Evan. Skunk, leader of a British rock and roll band, played by Mackenzie Knapp, blames Evan for Alexa, played by Kathryn Stevens, hands the check over to Evan, Alexa’s scam played by Scot Cahoon, (photos by Joe Pacifico) and roughs him up on stage. dicament - now that Alexa has robbed A bleeding and unbelieving Evan be- him blind. gins to realize the truth - and his pre- Following intermission, Evan is search(continued on page 10)

Red Hook StarªRevue The Happenings ª Red Hook Star Revue

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SOUTH BROOKLYN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

In just two short years we have grown from a novelty Table of Contents Black History Celebration. .. 3 Editorial....................... 8 to an institution. Heights Players... 1,10,11,15 LaCorte Benefit.......... 10

MARCH 2014

BROOKLYN’S SOUTH COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

VOLUME 5 NO. 4

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Extreme Kids & Crew will host a panel discussion on “Growing Up with a Special Needs Sibling” at the Brooklyn Friends School from 5-8 pm. Dr. Judy Grossman will moderate the talk with five adults who grew up with a sister or brother with disabilities. 375 Pearl Street

AB Decker............................................................. Reporter Also in This

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TUESDAY, MARCH 11

THURSDAY, MARCH 13

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A new Red Hook Writer’s group will meet for a Literary Open Mike night from 5:30-7:30 pm. Group will share and discuss readings. Writers and non-writers encouraged to attend. Submit 1-8 pages to Maria at maria. redhookpoetsandwriters@gmail.com. Star Theater, 101 Union Street. Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow will present an introduction to their 5 month job training program at 6:30 and 7:30 pm. Employment training, customer service certification, high school equivalency diploma, Microsoft certification, public speaking, and service learning. For ages 17-21. Reserve tickets at (718) 369-0303, www.obtjobs.org. 783 4th Ave.

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The 2nd Annual Pie for the People kicks off at Fairway from 1-4 pm. Any pie type imaginable is eligible for entry. To enter a pie, ($10), email mo@cvhaction.org. Tickets are $20/$25 at the door for individuals and $35/$40 for a family of up to 3. 480-500 Van Brunt Street

2012

Thank you Brooklyn!

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19

101 Union Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231 Kimberly@redhookstar.com

718 624-5568 www.RedHookStar.com

Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is hosting a Woman’s Personal Protection Seminar for women ages 12 and up from 7:45-8:45 pm. The event will discuss strategies to avoid dangerous situations, learn awareness, and feel empowered. Guests should wear loose fitting clothes. (347) 7991960 or email bbjj4you@gmail.com. FREE. 157 Columbia Street.

SATURDAY MARCH 22

The

Red Hook StarªRevue SOUTH BROOKLYN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Clean & Green and New York Restoration Project is having their Spring tree giveaway from 11 am-3 pm Trees can be planted at home or locally. Salt Lot, 2nd Avenue at 5th Street. Author, Danette Vigilante will be promoting her new children’s book, “Saving Baby Doe” at Book Court at 4 pm. Snacks, cake and “swag” will be provided. FREE. 163 Court Street

SUNDAY, MARCH 23

The Brooklyn Conservatory of Music will perform at Visitation Church at 4 pm. Refreshments will be served afterward. Suggested donation $15, or pay what you can. 98 Richards Street

FRIDAY MARCH 28

Pioneer Works is hosting the official pre-race dinner of the Red Hook Crit No. 7. The event will feature a bicycle themed slideshow from Slideluck, food and an open bar. Special musical performance by Seasick Mama. Doors open at 7 pm. $15. 159 Pioneer Street

FRIDAY, MARCH 28

The LEGO club meets at the Red Hook Library from 4:30-5:30 pm. (718) 935-0203 bklynpubliclibrary.org/locations/red-hook. 7 Wolcott Street

SATURDAY, MARCH 29

The 7th Annual Red Hook Criterium races begin at 7 pm. The women’s 5K begins at 7 pm; the men’s 5K begins at 7:45 pm; the women’s Crit begins at 8:45 pm; and the men’s Crit begins at 9:45 pm. FREE. Red Hook Cruise Terminal Parking Lot, 72 Bowne Street

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Carroll Gardens Association is offering two types of Computer classes: Introduction to Computers (three weeks), and Microsoft Office (five weeks) on Mondays and Tuesdays from 5:30-7:30 pm. For dates and registration, call (718) 243-9301 or email info@carrollgardensassociation.com The Red Hook Library offers homework help every Tuesday and Wednesday from 3:30-5:30 pm. Resume workshops every Thursday from 11 am-1 pm. GED Prep sessions every Monday at 10 am. (718) 935-0203 or visit bklynpubliclibrary.org/locations/red-hook. 7 Wolcott Street Arts and crafts at the Red Hook Recreation Center for kids ages 6-12 begins at 11 am. In March, the program will be held on March 8 and 22. 155 Bay Street between Clinton and Henry Find and Seek, a workshop for 0-5 year olds and their caregivers, meets every Friday from 10:30 am-12 pm. The current program, Curious Cabinet runs through March 28. Red Hook Library, 7 Wolcott Street The Red Hook Justice Center is looking for participants in their Friday night basketball youth program. Sessions are from 5-7 pm (ages 11-14) and 7-9 pm (ages 15-18). Any Red Hook or South Brooklyn youth is welcome to participate. Instruction is offered by professional Pro Hoops Trainers. FREE. Miccio Center, 110 W. 9th Street

www.RedHookStar.com

March, 2014

Black History month celebrated with new Borough President at Historical Society

lack History Month originally began as “Negro History Week” the second week of February in 1926 because it coincided with the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln, (February 12) and Frederick Douglass (February 14.)Both historic men had been celebrated for their contributions to the black community since the late 19th century.

by Kimberly Gail Price

tention was to encourage the teaching of American blacks in public schools across the country. In February 1969, the leaders of Black United Students at Kent State University proposed an expansion of Black History Week. The first Black History Month was celebrated at Kent State one year later in 1970. The US government embraced the expansion in 1976 during the Bicentennial. President Gerald Ford urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Although celebrating American black history was not always a popular notion, today it is widely embraced. In the 21st century, we honor not only our black ancestors, but also black heroes and leaders who are making a difference in the lives of others today.

Milton Puryear, co-founder of Brooklyn Greenway Initiative, was recognized for his extensive work on the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway. (photo by Price)

Historian, Carter G. Woodson announced the initiative, saying, “If a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.” Negro History Week was first embraced by Departments of Education North Carolina, Delaware, Washington D.C., Baltimore and West Virginia. The in-

BASIS School goes for final permitting by George Fiala

On February 24th, the NYC Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA) conducted a public hearing on the BASIS Independent School’s application to operate a school in a Red Hook Industrial Business Zone (IBZ) zone. IBZ zones are areas designated by the city for use by industry, and may include tax and other incentives. Residential development is not permitted in these zones. The hearing - scheduled for the morning - extended into late afternoon as speakers both pro and con expressed their feelings on the matter. The school plans to build on a former bus parking lot on Columbia Street between the Red Hook Farm and the Red Hook Houses. A group led by John Quadrozzi of Gowanus GBX and Lillie Marshall, president of the Red Hook West Tenant Association, was joined by Jim Vogel of Assemblywoman Velmanette Montgomery’s office to argue against the school. They argued that a school would impede truck traffic in this area predominantly zoned for manufacturing. They also said that financially viable industrial jobs would be lost if this - and other lots - were transformed into schools and other types of enterprises that do not exactly fit the defini-

Red Hook Star-Revue

On February 24, Borough President, Eric Adams held the first annual Black history Month Celebration of Brooklyn at the Brooklyn Historical Society (BHS). Adams is Brooklyn’s first black Borough President. “ The ceremony gave special recognition to three organizations for the exhibit on display at BHS, “In Pursuit of Freedom.” The partners included Weeksville Heritage Center, BHS, and the Irondale Ensemble Project. Thirty-three community honorees were awarded citations form the Borough’s office for outstanding contributions to the black communities of Brooklyn. The Christian Cultural Center Pertion of industrial. Backers of the school, which include activists John McGettrick and Wally Bazemore, as well as John Battis, claim that the school will provide local jobs and some scholarships. What is important to Battis and McGettrick is the fact that a school will serve as good alternative to polluting buses or an industrial use that may introduce pollution into the area. Both McGettrick and Bazemore are veterans of Red Hook’s successful fight against mass locations of waste transfer stations in the area. The BSA asked the BASIS school to provide more information regarding the safety of students amongst the trucks. They will return for a second hearing on March 25th, when a decision will be rendered.

Push for more Pre-K and After-School by George Fiala

On Friday, March 7, Carlos Menchaca and his staff spent the morning rush hour at the subway station on 4th Avenue and 37th Street collecting signatures of Sunset Park residents in support of the City Council’s proposed bill mandating Universal Pre-Kindergarten for middle-school aged youth. The bill also increases funding for after-school programs, calling Sunset Park an area “se-

forming Arts Ministry performed both the opening and closing songs for the ceremony. Sandra Chapman, former Deputy Borough President under Marty Markowitz, opened the ceremony, and introduced Adams. After brief remarks by Adams, he introduced Assemblyman Walter Mosley. “Black History is American History; American History is Black History,” Mosley said. Latitia “Tish” James is the first black Public Advocate to hold the position. She spoke about the accomplishments of her race. She referenced Eric Adams’ background as a police officer; District Attorney, Ken Adams, who grew up in public housing; and her own mother who “once scrubbed floors.” She added, “We started from the bottom, and now we are here.” Adams spoke about the presence of minorities in Brooklyn, noting that 47% of Brooklyn speaks a language other than English at home. He encouraged communities to celebrate the culture and diversity of Brooklyn and the nation. He called for an “army of volunteers” to help the children of Brooklyn compete on a global level and become “global leaders.” Before the presentation of awards, Adams asked his guests to “take a moment to reflect on someone who has paved the way. Diana Reyna, Deputy Borough President, assisted Adams in awarding citations from the borough office. She poignantly stated, “We are all in this together. Thank you for what you do.” Two members of our local community were among the community honorees:

Reg Flowers, Founder and Director of Falconworks, honored at the Black History Month Celebration. (photo by Price)

Reg Flowers, of Falconworks Artists Group; and Milton Puryear of Brooklyn Greenway Initiative (BGI). Flowers was honored for his work with Falconworks, a company that gives a voice to civic engagement and provides avenues for social change through theater. Projects range from youth writing and producing their work to classic scripts that mirror current controversies in local society. Puryear is cofounder of BGI, an organization working to promote a greener, safer and more-bike accessible Brooklyn. BGI has been working with the city since 2004 to create and maintain the 14 mile Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway. BGI also promotes non-motorized transportation opportunities to connect waterfront communities. Prior to his work with BGI, Puryear was the Project Manager for the creation of the Mill River Park and Greenway in Stamford, Connecticut. Following the ceremony, guests were invited to Borough Hall for a reception. Doc D’s Desserts and Sugarhill Disco & Restaurant provided the refreshment.

verely impacted by a critical shortage” in such programming. According to PS 15 PTA President Lydia Bellahcene, Red Hook suffers from after-school shortages as well. The Beacon Program, run by Good Shepherd Services, currently services 150 students at the school. This is about half the capacity they handled just a few years ago. The funding comes from the city’s Department of Youth and Community Development. Funding has not kept up with costs, and the programming has been cut citywide. Mayor Bill de Blasio has proposed increasing funding for Beacon, coupling it with his Universal Pre-K initiative, and making it dependent on an increased tax on wealthy New Yorkers. The proposed tax is opposed by Governor Cuomo, leaving its future funding uncertain. These cuts have hurt schools in low income districts especially hard, according to Bellahcene. Schools in wealthier districts have instituted for-pay programs. At Cobble Hill’s PS 29, for example, every student whose family can pay a fee has after-school programs available. Costs range from $50 per month for one session (3- 4:30 pm, one day a week), all the way up to $800 per semester for two sessions (3-6 pm, 5 days per week). The program, which is called “The Kids Club,” offers professional supervision

www.RedHookStar.com

Carlos Menchaca and his staff canvassing for signatures in support of universal pre-k across from the Sunset Park HS. (photo by Fiala)

with a snack, active play, games and homework help. Additional programs offer tutoring. There is hope that revised budgetary priorities may restore cuts to the Beacon program. The push for Universal Pre-K that Carlos, the rest of the council and the mayor are proposing will help local parents in educating their children. Yet for now, it’s all up in the air.

March, 2014 Page 3

Community Calendar CB 6 - ALL MEETINGS AT 6:30 PM

Mon Mar 10: Executive Board Meeting, Cobble Hill Community Meeting Room, 250 Baltic Street Wed Mar 12: General Board Meeting, Cobble Hill Health Center, 380 Henry Street, Recreation Room Mon Mar 17: Economic/Waterfront/Community Development & Housing, Fifth Avenue Committee, Conference Room, 621 Degraw Street Thurs Mar 20: Transportation/Public Safety, 78th Police Precinct, 65 6th Avenue, 4th floor Court Room Mon Mar 24: Environmental Protection/Permits & Licenses, Community Board 6 District Office, 250 Baltic Street, Auditorium Wed Mar 26: Youth/Human Services/Education, Cobble Hill Community Meeting Room, 250 Baltic Street

Tues Mar 11, 6:30-8 pm: Community Meeting Group led by Sheryl Braxton. Red Hook Library, 7 Wolcott Street Tue Mar 11, 6:30-9pm: Red Hook West Tenants Meeting, 428 Columbia Street Tenant office room 1-C Wed Mar 19, 5:30-7:30pm: Housing Workshop Series, Carroll Gardens Association, 201 Columbia Street, Thurs Mar 20, 5:30-7:30pm: Business Income Tax Seminar, Carroll Gardens Association, 201 Columbia Street Thurs Mar 20, 6-9 pm: Bridging Gowanus’ second community planning meeting. Wyckoff Gardens Community Center, 280 Wyckoff Street Tues March 25, 6-9:00pm: Gowanus CAG meeting, St. Mary Star of the Sea, 41 1st Street Thurs Mar 27, 7-8:30 pm: Gowanus Dredgers Canoe Club Annual Meeting to discuss and propose ideas, reports from 2013 season programs and announce our plans for the 2014 season. Whole Foods Roof Café, 214 3rd Street

PS 15 PATRICK F. DALY MAGNET SCHOOL OF THE ARTS

SPRING FLEA Saturday MAY 3RD SEEKING VENDORS!

This year PUPPETRY ARTS, a school partner, will join the PS 15 PTA in hosting the Spring Flea taking place on Saturday May 3rd from 10am to 5pm. The PTA is seeking local food vendors, vintage clothing and furniture, antiques, crafts and collectables vendors.

EMAIL: ps15pta83@gmail.com

Lillie Marshall and Phaedra Thomas at an EPA outreach meeting at PS 15.

Page 4 Red Hook Star-Revue

Entry fee will directly support the Puppetry Arts program and the continued PTA sponsored school programs at PS 15 www.RedHookStar.com

March, 2014

AIR QUALITY AND LIGHT RAIL DISCUSSED AT GOWANUS BREAKFAST by Kimberly Gail Price

n Friday, February 28, the Gowanus Canal Community Development Corporation (GCCDC) held their annual Legislative Breakfast at Whole Foods Market in Gowanus. Local politicians were invited to attend to hear proposals on community issues. Breakfast was provided by Whole Foods and began at 8:30 am. At 9 am, Joseph Messineo, Chair of the GCCDC Board of Directors opened the meeting, thanking Whole Foods and Investor’s Bank for sponsoring the event. At 9:15 am, Bill Appel, Executive Director of GCCDC, gave a ten minute presentation on affordable housing. He suggested to the politicians and their representatives that affordable housing should not only be part of a developer’s package, but should be mandated by the city. At 9:25 am, Edward Biederman, Principle at Harbor School on Governors Island, discussed new ideas for education. He said he would like to see feeder schools from each of the five boroughs that would funnel high school students into schools on Governor’s Island. At 9:35 am, GCCDC Board Member, Raymond Howell discussed transportation issues for isolated communities like

Red Hook Star-Revue

Red Hook, DUMBO and Gowanus. The long discussed trolley lines, he says, are a real possibility to easing commuting woes along the Brooklyn waterfront. He also stated there are federal dollars designated for light rail that could be accessed for these communities. Messineo said that trolleys would be an “attraction,” by bringing more people to the waterfront and boosting local economies. Light rail would allow “creative access to the water” just as the NYC Water Taxis and ferries do. Kristian Larsen, Board member of GCCDC, addressed environmental issues - specifically air quality - surrounding the Superfund site at 9:45 am. He maintained that GCCDC is not against the cleanup of the canal, but insisted that the work follow their own protocol for quality control measurement of air samples. According to Larsen, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) are required by their own laws to test air quality before, during and after cleanups. In addition, technical assistance grants (TAGs) are also provided by the EPA for the communities affected to hire their own experts to conduct

Left to right: Bill Appel, Buddy Scotto, Carmen Robello, BP Adams, Jean Austin, Joseph Messineo, Jeffrey Wyner (photo by Louie Garay)

studies to provide information to the general public. Larsen claims neither of these directives has been enacted. Staffing levels among the EPA have changed drastically since the implementation of the Superfund program in the 1990s. Many of the air quality experts have retired and were never replaced, therefore creating a shortage for present day Superfund sites.

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Larsen urged local politicians representing the affected communities to hold the EPA to their own standards by requiring testing and studies, as well as freeing up TAGs. “They had a unit that used to do this,” he said. “Now they don’t. Why?” After comments and questions from the legislators and attendees, the meeting adjourned at 10:20 am.

March, 2014 Page 5

Councilmembers Lander and Levin guests at February Gowanus CAG meeting by George Fiala

he Gowanus Community Advisory Group (CAG) meets monthly to discuss issues pertaining to the Canal Superfund cleanup. At its February 25 meeting, local councilmen Steve Levin and Brad Lander appeared by invitation. The CAG consists of sixty members, many of them representing local groups, such as the Red Hook East and West Tenants, the Red Hook Civic Association, the Cobble Hill Association and many others. Other members are at-large - those in the community with an interest in the cleanup. These monthly meetings are open to the public, and are announced on the CAG website - www.gowanuscag.org, as well as on the Star-Revue online calendar (www.redhookstar.com). Guests often include representatives from the NYS Department of Environmental Protection (NYS DEP), National Grid (who are paying for much of the cleanup), City Planning and local politicians. The meeting began at 6:30, and, as the politicians had not yet arrived, committee reports were heard. The only committee that actually met during the month was Outreach. A committed gang of five members made an 8:30 am meeting on the day of one of those highly touted snowstorms that have dotted this winter. Among the achievements, as reported by Ariel Krasnow, was a further updating of the CAG website, and a discussion of a CAG logo and tagline. CAG facilitator Doug Sarno reported that in accordance to a request from Christos Tsiamos, chief engineer on the Superfund project, a letter was sent out to the DOT requesting expedited repairs to the Union Street, Carroll Street and First Street drawbridges. This bridges have been out since Sandy, and are needed by the Superfund once the dredging of the canal begins, as tugboats and barges will be traveling up and down the canal. Tsiamos said that he in fact had met with DOT officials and received the good news that funding to repair the bridges had been obtained, and work on them will be expedited.

Marlene Donnelly sits on the Archaeology Committee (photos by Fiala)

Marlene Donnelly, representing Friends and Residents of Greater Gowanus (FROGG), asked about a recent permit request by NYC to dredge the Gowanus, when this is already to be done by the EPA. It turns out that this request was

Page 6 Red Hook Star-Revue

made in 2004, prior to the entrance of the EPA, and was mandated by the NYS DEP. It has just now come up for a public hearing, and the DEP representative explained that the state and the EPA are working this out this apparent duplication. The representative disputed Donnelly’s fear that this represented a NYC attempt to undermine the EPA’s work. City Councilmember Stephen Levin arrived at this point, joking that his district includes two Superfund sites, and that he had to arrive earlier than Councilmember Lander as he needed to rush off to the Newtown Creek CAG meeting later that evening. He assured everyone that he

get cuts which threatened to close the pool five years ago, and that “kids use that pool.” He said that his job will be to make sure that the city will be a good partner when it comes to the park, and that the money will be there to Councilmember Steve Levin (r) listens to EPA stalwarts Chris reopen it, if it Tsiamis and Natalie Loney. Bridging Gowanus comes to that. He is not for and not Lander spoke in general terms about the against the placement of the tanks goals of Bridging Gowanus and hoped there. “If that happens, I want to be for good relations between the groups. It sure that the amenity is protected or re- was pointed out to him that they should placed in kind.” He stressed that plans understand that any new developments to reopen the pool are in place before along the Gowanus would be subject to the pool is closed - whether the money compliance with EPA standards preventcomes from the city or the Potentially ing the introduction of new pollutants Responsible Parties (PRP’s), who are into the canal. “The EPA is not going away,” someone in the audience compaying for the cleanup. With these points made, Levin excused mented, referring to the fact that they himself and rushed out the door to his will continue to monitor the canal even next meeting, accompanied with applause.

Carolina Salguero of Portside brought up some Red Hook issues pertaining to flood remediation.

was fully supportive of Superfund, saying that he was glad that we were “doing the right thing now, so that we’re not coming back in 50, 100 or 150 years.” His major issue had to do with the location of two retention tanks mandated by the EPA’s Record of Decision (ROD). These oversized tanks are required so that future sewer overflow occurring during rainstorms are diverted to the tanks instead of the Gowanus, which will prevent recontamination. He noted that the new city DEP commissioner, Emily Lloyd, is fresh from two years as head of the Prospect Park Alliance. He said that her knowledge of both Superfund and the neighborhood will make her a good partner in the years ahead.

Double D Pool There has been controversy concerning the Double D swimming pool. The EPA had suggested that in view of the fact that toxicity had been found under the pool, it might make sense to locate the tanks there, accomplishing two tasks at once. The neighborhood protested, and Tsiamis made clear that his was only a suggestion - the city could site the tanks wherever they wanted to. The deadline for coming up with a location is July 1st. Levin spoke about the possibility that the pool might be closed for the work. He wanted to bring attention to the fact that plans must be made to restore the pool afterwards. He pointed out that these pools are expensive to rebuild. McCarren pool, also in his district, cost $50 million to renovate. Double D is smaller, but still could take upwards of $20 million to restore. He reminded the CAG that he successfully fought bud-

Lander had not yet arrived, so Christos gave a good report of his walk through the area with city officials. This was the first of multiple meetings he is having with the city in search of a place to site the retention tanks. He was happy with the progress, and a second meeting was already scheduled. Someone in the audience suggested that a meeting with the new DEP commission Lloyd would be helpful in forging a relationship with the new administration. The committee remembered that as city councilman, de Blasio was against the Superfund designation, siding with the Bloomberg administration and the Toll Brothers, who had been planning a development by the Gowanus. At 7:45, Councilmember Brad Lander arrived. Lander has been instrumental in a Gowanus series of planning meetings that he called “Bridging Gowanus.” CAG members the previous month wondered why the CAG wasn’t consulted for these meetings. This was the impetus to invite the politicians. Red Hook’s councilman Carlos Menchaca was also invited, but was a no-show.

Brad Lander makes a point. after the cleanup is finished. Recontamination is a huge concern, which is why the sewage overflow problem requires the retention tanks, as per the ROD. Tsiamis has said in the past that anyone planning a real estate or other development in the area will be informed that if they are found repolluting the canal, they will be treated as PRP’s themselves, and will have to fund a cleanup.

Lander was interested in this, and suggested adding an “E” to the zoning. He said that his office will be looking into this. He ended up by speaking of “tradeoffs and challenges” in the continuing development of the Gowanus neighborhood.

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March, 2014

Menchaca leads NYCHA meeting at PS 15 by George Fiala

lthough advertised as one, there were actually two separate meetings at PS 15 on March 6th. The auditorium held an informational meeting where affected homeowners could meet representatives from Build It Back, a city program that is supposed to distribute federal funds to distressed homeowners who have had to rebuild their homes. After some opening statements, councilman Carlos Menchaca led a group of tenants of the Red Hook Houses upstairs to room 202, where they met with two representatives from NYCHA. Doug McNevin and Jessica Nepomiachi engaged the tenants in a back and forth that was sometimes emotional as tenants described some of the problems they faced both during and since the hurricane disrupted the electric and heating systems in all the buildings. McNevin spoke about the temporary boilers that are still providing the steam heat. Since their emergency installation over a year ago, there have been problems with outages and extremely hot water coming out of the tap. He explained that they had to scramble to get these boilers, as Sandy created a huge demand for them. The two they ended

Jim Vogel from State Senator Velmanette Montgomery’s office pledges assistance to NYCHA in their quest to resolve a Catch 22 situation in their negotiations with FEMA and their insurance company. While they are required, and it makes common sense to rebuild with resiliency in mind, these agencies don’t want to pay them unless they restore their boilers the way they were before the storm.

up getting are oil powered and high pressured. In the next 90 days, they will be replacing them with more appropriate temporary boilers, powered by less polluting and less expensive natural gas. There will be a backup system providing more continuity of service, and hopefully they will be more adjustable, providing less surprises out of the tap. The long-term plan is for a co-generation unit to replace this temporary situation. Discussions are underway to design one unit that would provide heat for the entire complex. In addition, they would be designed to produce electricity as well, which would feed into the Con Ed grid, lowering electricity costs. Upon questioning, it was discovered that these are very long-term plans, contingent on finding a capital source. NYCHA is entitled to insurance reimbursement for the boilers, as well as FEMA money, however, as with many individuals they haven’t received a penny so far. The usual litany of complaints were heard, including terrible plastering and painting problems, front door locks that are still broken, and lost work orders. It was pointed out that the existing temporary boilers are so unreliable that one of them even caught fire. Sheryl Braxton expressed her disgust throughout the meeting, as the NYCHA people tried to answer her questions and assured her that her pleas would be heard. Menchaca listened impassionately at the head of the group, occasionally clarifying some points, and, except for Braxton, who spoke at will, picked on people to speak. Menchaca pointed out that in the new city budget, NYCHA is relieved of paying $52 million to the NYPD. Nepomiatchi was pressed on what they will do with the windfall. She responded that this has only just happened but that they will surely start hiring more maintenance people. Ricardo Reed spoke of sewage backups.

While homeowners were receiving information from the Build It Back program that should start distributing rebuilding monies for Sandy repairs, Carlos Menchaca led a small but impassioned group of Red Hook Houses tenants who made clear to two NYCHA officials some of the difficulties they still endure in their buildings (photos by Fiala).

Red Hook Volunteers still helping by George Fiala Last week the Red Hook Volunteers quietly tested a new program to help Red Hook residents. They paid to have a 500 lb dumpster placed in front of their store on Van Brunt, allowing the neighborhood to get rid of materials damaged by Sandy. “It was an overwhelming success,” said Jovan Burch, of the Volunteers. “We filled it up in two days.” They are hoping to do this on a monthly basis, but do not want much publicity outside of Red Hook, to make sure the service is taken advantage of by locals. The Volunteers are still fixing up homes - especially first floors and basements, made uninhabitable by the floodwaters. “There are still displaced people in the neighborhood,” said fellow Volunteer Tashonda Haugabrook. “We are pretty much done with full gut-outs,” she continued, “but there are still rooms in need of work.”

Jovan Burch and Tashonda Haugabrook of the Red Hook Volunteers.

In addition to their own volunteer efforts, they are able to get local tradespeople to help - especially in cases where licensed plumbers or electricians are required by the building department. The Volunteers recently received a new round of funding from the American Red Cross. They vow to stay in the neighborhood to help “as long as we have money to pay our rent.”

Help Wanted at the Star-Revue Reporters needed for news coverage in Red Hook and her environs. Enthusiasm more important than experience. Learn on the job. Advertising positions also available. We also accept submissions from the community on topics of local interest. Call Kimberly Gail Price

718 624-5568

or email: editor@redhookstar.com

Red Hook Star-Revue

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March, 2014 Page 7

EDITORIAL:

Calling for a stronger Civic Association

ast Friday, Public Advocate Leticia James named Carlos Menchaca the Red Hook representative to oversee the Request for Proposal procedures regarding the Long Island College Hospital (LICH). He joins the Cobble Hill Association, the Brooklyn Heights Association, the Boerum Hill Association, Carroll Gardens Neighborhood Association, Riverside Tenants’ Association and the Wyckoff Gardens Association, Inc.

points out a shortcoming.

indication of this.

Red Hook has one active community organization, the Red Hook Civic Association. It is a longstanding organization that has been kept alive through the legion volunteer efforts of John McGettrick. The Civic Association meets most months at PS 15, and it is attended by a small but loyal crowd of civic minded residents. The crowd gets bigger on occasion as special interests look for an outlet to be heard, (as happened before Sandy when a Throughout the yearlong ordeal to group called Occupy Red Hook was prevent LICH from closing, these concerned about Stop and Frisk.) groups have been active advocates, McGettrick is but one person, and participating in the court process he has fought many fights on our that has forced SUNY Downstate behalf. He has had help through into a new RFP process. While Red the years, and more is needed. Hook has been often mentioned as a community underserved by local The time has come for a bigger healthcare, it has been difficult if organization. Having to appoint a not impossible to get anyone from city councilman to stand for the the Red Hook community to par- community, when our neighborticipate in the struggle. It is laud- ing communities, including the able that our new city councilman Gowanus Houses, have local orgaaccepts this responsibility, but it nizations standing for them, is an

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

(send yours to editor@redhookstar.com)

Likes our editorial that was not about the BASIS school

This is a very well articulated argument and I really appreciate the author sharing the 197A, plan, which as far as I can see, include aspirations still shared by the vast majority of Red Hook residents and the local community. The BASIS school is a major offense to Red Hook and her residents and must be fought tooth and nail, and kept away. This is a terrible plan for our community, and not the kind of thing we need. If you look over the information provided by the business people who “manage” the school, it is very obvious that to them Red Hook is nothing more than an investment opportunity. This model for education is poorly conceived, and the families and students coming into BASIS school will never be welcomed here – this will be a nonstop source of tension and will create divisions among our residents.

ting them in a new space.” I think we can do without these kinds of “products” and “management systems” slithering into our wonderful neighborhood, inches away from the RH houses and with no sensitivity to the existing social conditions here. These people cannot be allowed to launch this business here. Our kids deserve better. - Jason

We are taking our proven curriculum and our management systems and put-

Page 8 Red Hook Star-Revue

property owners, housing activists and at-large members. Additional funding could to hire someone to create and manage a website, which would be a central location With that money, someone could for important local announcments be hired on a part time basis to as well as other functions that one organize the Civic Association, might imagine - for example an changing it to a dues paying orga- online historical association. nization with a budget and a mis- A bigger organization will provide sion statement. Elect a board of di- our Red Hook community with a rectors, including representatives stronger voice and a firmer hand in from the business community, the future of our neighborhood.

SPEEDY RECOVERIES DESIRED

Likes every issue!

You have a great publication, my wife and I enjoy it fully. On the phone as I said, we’ve lived here in RH for 41 yrs, raised our kids here and proud of Red Hook’s growth. I wish that Patrick Daley was still around though. Thanks George and I’ll just pick up the Star at the usual place at the New Red Hook Market on Columbia and Lorraine (whenever they have them). God Bless! Daniel

Read for yourselves how creepy and Orwellian the corporate-speak of this school is: “The private school is a new product for BASIS.ed that gives us the opportunity to expand access for more students. The outstanding curriculum designed by BASIS.ed and tested and proven in the 12 charter schools, will now be used in this new chapter of the company.

One way to do this would be to merge some organizations. Perhaps the Red Hook East and West Tenant Associations should join together with the Civic Association. Perhaps ReStore Red Hook, or a successor organization should also be combined. There is another way. Sandy has brought many outside organizations to Red Hook, and given many grants. The Red Hook Initiative, ReStore Red Hook and the Red Hook Volunteers are all recipients of sizable infusions of money. Why not convene a group of volunteers, headed by McGettrick, and prepare some grant requests?

CORRECTION: In the previous issue of the Star-Revue, Anthony Watson was incorrectly identified as Anthony Johnson. The Star-Revue should have known better as he is such a good guy!

Two well known and beloved residents of the Red Hook Houses were struck with serious illness recently. Jacqueline Jackson and Khadijah James are both recovering and we hope to see them up and about by the time the warm weather sets in.

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March, 2014

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df df df df df by George Fiala t’s March and the 2014 races are getting closer. Word is that a Mexican American is looking to do to Assemblyman Felix Ortiz what Carlos Menchaca did to 718 624-5568 Sara Gonzalez in the city council. Nydia’s 10th two year Congressional term isgeorge@RedHookStar.com Brooklyn, NY 11231 up at the end of the year, and despite all her off year work for City Council candi101 Union Street Brooklyn, NY 11231 718 624-5568 dates, there are murmurs of Democratic primary opposition again. We’ve already www.selectmail.com seen up a campaign flyer for her. george@selectmail.com The brochure touts her work for public housing, her work to bring jobs to the Brooklyn waterfront, her hand in the locavore movement as well as rebuilding from Sandy. She is on the small business committee in Congress, and the brochure finishes with some legislative achievements in that area, including help for women owned business; a credit availability act for small businesses, and H.R. 2451, the “Strengthening Entrepreneurs’ Economic Development Act,” which she claims spurs entrepreneurship throughout her district. After checking on that last bill, the website www.govtrack.us informs us that the bill was sent to committee last June, and stands a 1% chance of being enacted. The six page bill proposes a lending fund for small businesses (fewer than 20 employees) to apply for a maximum $150,000 loan to be repaid in six years, although an amendment to the bill authorizes higher loans. Despite the fact that the brochure claims that her bill “spurs entrepreneurship,” the fact is that will occur only in the small chance that this bill becomes law. Steve Levin gave an impressive talk at a recent Gowanus CAG meeting. Rather than railing against the possible closure of the Double D pool (on 3rd Avenue between Douglass and DeGraw) while holding tanks for sewer overflows are installed, as per the suggestion of the EPA, he intelligently discussed what should happen in the eventuality that this route is taken by the city and the EPA. He pointed out that the pool was threatened with closure due to budget cuts five years ago, which the community successfully fought. His argument to the CAG was forward thinking: to ensure funding is in place to rebuild the pool if it comes to that. Refreshing to hear a real idea, rather than one of many platitudes often heard from our government representatives. Last month, Velmanette Montgomery split from the rest of our local pols by endorsing a plan by Brooklyn Hospital to take over part of LICH. Lander and the rest continued to petition SUNY Downstate for a new RFP, which became the agreement finally reached in the year-long court case. The consequence for Montgomery came at the laudatory City Hall press conference announcing the agreement where she was not present.

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March, 2014 Page 9

Neighborhood throws benefit to help local photographer by Kimberly Gail Price

raig LaCourt lives with his family in Red Hook. He takes pictures. For more than a decade his photography has captured the souls of his community. Craig’s portraits reveal personality, emotion, action, but most of all, they illustrates humanity. In January, the LaCourt family’ livelihood was halted by tragedy. They were traveling through Detroit when their car was broken into and emptied of $20,000 worth of photography equipment. Cameras, laptops, lens, hard drives were all removed without regard to the consequences for Craig, his wife Shami, and their two year old daughter. The expensive equipment had been insured, but expired in October 2013. Without the insurance, Craig could not afford to replace the items. Without them, he would be unable to earn a living to support his family - at least not with photography. But Craig’s past work and reputation prevailed. Together with the Red Hook community he and his family organized a fundraiser at Hometown BBQ to sell his previous work to build his future work. Red Hook gave Craig a beautiful re-

Heights Players (continued from page 1)

ing for the truth about Alexa. He discovers much more about her than he bargained for. And he is determined to get his money back, or at least avenge her. Evan conspires with others she has conned to avenge his naivety, making new friends along the way. As Bees in Honey Drown is a satirical comedy full of punch lines and wit. The script is full of predictable and unpredictable plot twists. Although some of the plot points are obvious, the escalation and voyage to each one is what makes this script unique. The play requires the action to be driven by the energy and focus of the actors. The cast does not disappoint. Though most actors play multiple roles, they slide very easily into the roles of each. Their acting choices are unique and believable throughout. Cahoon depicts an honest straightforward writer who is looking for his meager slice of the pie. As Alexa’s influence grows one him, his slice grows in his mind too. Cahoon rises to the occasion with believability from the naïve entre nous through the end of the script when he becomes the aggressor. He is truthful to the role, never over- or under-playing his predicament. He follows the script faithfully to the end and allows Alexa’s actions to guide his performance. Cahoon is from Colorado. He is making his debut performance on a New York stage. Stevens plays a convincing British deb-

Page 10 Red Hook Star-Revue

minder that the neighborhood can and will still take care of their own. “I moved here in 2001 because I found a great space I could afford. But I really fell in love with the sense of community we have here,” he said. “That’s where we got the idea to concentrate the first show: to present how special it is to be involved with the great people that are here.” Hometown owner, Billy Durney - along with the LaCourts and show curator, Alaric Campbell - they transformed the bbq and musical joint into an art gallery, late night dance party. Hometown’s website described the event as, a “fantastic evening of photo art, music and community.” From 7 pm until after 11 pm, friends and family danced, drank and ate heartily, all while standing among Craig’s portraits of themselves. Although Craig does a lot of editorial photography for advertising companies, he is also involved in a personal undertaking he calls the “Red Hook Project.” For the fundraiser, he compiled portraits of people from the neighborhood that he has shot over the years. In an interview with Resource Magazine, Craig said, “This is just a start. We’re just getting a glimpse of how to interpret the place, so we’re in the early stage of the project.”

utant throughout the first act. Her neutral could-be-from-anywhere England accent misleads the audience almost into believing that she is what she says she is. However, her auspicious actions give her away. At times, her accent slips ever so slightly, begging the question of her true identity, which is revealed after intermission. Stevens embraces the glamour and poise Alexa requires. She is over the top in moments of grandeur, yet honest to the character in sensitive moments. Her ability to switch between the character’s two facades makes it easy to accept her dominance over Evan. Although her transition from Alexa back into her former self is immediate, Stevens is able to slowly shift gears from her past into her future. The acceptance of Alexa is gradual and realistic, demonstrating that it takes time to become someone else. Stevens earned her theater degree from Penn State and has appeared in other Heights Players productions. Teddy Lytle first appears as the photographer in the opening scene. He also plays Swen, a clerk at the Royalton Hotel and Kaden. His roles are vastly differing and he is able to support each one equally. From the cock superiority of the photographer to the paternal influence as Kaden, he shifts between the two as seemingly two separate actors. He does the same between the submissive hotel clerk and the unrefined Swedish model, Swen. Lytle is a well-grounded actor capable of switching from one persona to the next in relatively little time. There was

Billy Durney, Craig LaCourt and Maitiú Ó Broin have a little fun at the fundraiser on February 27. (photo by Shami LaCourt)

The photos reflect honest moments in the life of a human. Once Craig is able to replace some of his equipment, he will be expanding the Red Hook Project. In a FaceBook post following the event he posted, “I want to thank all the people who contributed by sitting (standing/jumping) in front of my lens over the last few years.” In a follow-up message to the star-Revue, he wrote, “We are by no means done with the

project of doing portraits of Red Hookers. We have just begun. Although the fundraiser didn’t raise enough money to cover all of the stolen items, Craig said it is enough to start rebuilding. “I am humbled by the turnout and show of support,” he said. “Friends from near and far came out and it was just an absolute honor to be able to hug anyone I could.”

no rub-off between his characters; each was the solid makeup he had given each one with absolutely no overlap. Lytle is a NYC based actor and also a fight choreographer. This is Alexa sits before her loyal subjects who do not yet realized they are being his first pro- conned in the Heights Players production of As Bees in Honey Drown. duction with impeccable. the Heights Players. Ronald is the fun-loving spirited presMacKenzie Knapp played Skunk, a rock ence that reveals information about and roll hothead; Ronald, sales clerk at Alexis. Albeit false info, it is unknown if Saks Fifth Avenue; and Michael, Al- it is true to him or if he is in on the scam. exa’s dead husband, who turned out o Knapp gives no indication either way, not be so dead after all. Knapp’s char- playing along the safe lines of honesty. acters also widely differ. As Ronald, he plays a very flamboyant gay man. After As Skunk, Knapp seems to be a little a 180 degree turn, he appears as Skunk, less comfortable. The over-the-top egomacho and intimidating. Michael, who maniac is difficult to gage. The emotion is also gay, is mild mannered and pa- Knapp gives the character is candid, but the character is portrayed too brashly tient, and distinctly masculine. from the beginning, allowing no opporAs Michael, Knapp’s work is honest, tunity for a climatic rise in temperament. heartening and solid. He concept of Megan Lee played Amber, Backup timing and subdued restraint is dead Singer, Secretary, Bethany, Ginny, and on. He is enamoring to watch, and stays Second Muse. Her performance as all connected, even while involved in mul- was enchanting, although each role was tiple scenes at the same time. While a minor part that helped drive the plot talking to the former Alexis of the past in some way. Her most notable perforand conveying information to Evan in mance is the opening scene, when she the present, he is not shaken from his plays the photographer’s assistant, Amfocus. In scenes with overlapping dia- ber. She twirls around, throws herself logue, his timing and presentation is (continued on page 11)

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READER CONTRIBUTION:

MY FIRST YEAR IN RED HOOK

little over 20 years ago I moved to Manhattan from Germany. Originally it was to attend Parsons School of Design. This three year stay was extended to first becoming an intern, then finding a job, getting a green card, and eventually starting my own interior design business in 2002. My last home in Manhattan was in the Financial District. I had moved Downtown in 1999, lived through 9/11, and made friends. I also watched as the area transformed itself into a new hot spot, along with soaring real estate prices and the opening up of such retail stores as Tiffany’s and Hermes. Somewhere along the way I bought my first car - a used 2002 Porsche Boxster, named Felix. Before I knew it I was heavily involved in the Porsche Club of America and even took Felix to the racetrack on occasion. My once generous one bedroom apartment with its sunny exposure and 11 foot ceiling started to feel a bit tight several years ago, especially since I run my interior design business from home. Along with a strong desire for my own garage, I started opening my mind and heart to the idea of relocating to Brooklyn. Somewhere close, within visual distance… Red Hook, accessible via Water Taxi was a neighborhood that I had already started to love. So in 2011, I slowly began looking for a potential home to buy and fix up. I remember looking at 10 Cole Street, 280 Van Brunt, and 80 Pioneer Street, all of which sold for a song in the end, me not being brave enough to make a move as I was still living inside most of my equity. I finally decided to sell my apartment, rent for a while and look for a property with a more appropriate down payment amount in the bank. In 2012, I sold my home of 13 years and found myself a great rental apartment on Lorraine Street - complete with my very own garage and a tiny

Heights Players (continued from page 10)

on the floor and talks to herself in third person. “Amber wants to dance…” She is reluctant to participate in the photo shoot, but unenthusiastically does when commanded to. Kate-Olivia O’Brien is cast as Waiter, Backup Singer, Carla, Newsstand Woman, Denise, Illya, and Muse. Each part is minor, but while performing seven roles in the same production, she has scores of appearances on stage. She is at her best during a five way phone call between other characters who are feeding information to Evan about Alexa. Her voice is steady and vibrant throughout. Although she is upstage away from the center of the action, her strong stage presence allows her not only to be heard, but draws the audience’s attention to her. Bees in Honey is performed in the Heights Players’ black-box theater The

Red Hook Star-Revue

by Felicitas Oefelein

outdoor space! I moved all of my belongings into this new rental home on October 24 2012. Just a couple of days prior to the arrival of Super-storm Sandy, as well as my own birthday on the 28th. We all know what happened next. The cherished garage space is a half level down and so I found myself the proud tenant of a new place, with the bulk of my things neatly packed in boxes… under 7 feet of water. Since I am a very happy and positive person by nature I looked at the bright side: at least my car had not been in the garage as officially my lease started on November 1, and I was not yet actually living in Brooklyn. Also, this was the first time in 15 years that I actually was a rental tenant, so at least I was not responsible for the major cleaning up of the mess. My friends helped recover dishes and hard items and we did a whopping 300 pounds of laundry with the help of a Laundromat on Henry Street. The owners of our complex could have not been nicer. Being part of the Red Hook community as we all lived thought the hard times of no power and heat, cleaning up and lending each other a hand is not something I would want to miss in hindsight. After 9/11, we had a similar spirit and sense of community in lower Manhattan. A spirit that I had come to miss and

The author during the midst of her Sandy cleanup duties.

in December I hosted my annual holiday brunch on my lower level. Without any real wall to speak of and an openall-the-way garage, it was one of the best parties I ever had in my home. In January, I learned to make compost at our urban farm around the corner. Spring came, and I started to grow plants on my little outdoor terrace. I also started to feed the local cats that came to my rear door. I had lived in nothing but high-rise apartment buildings for the past 20 years and was a tiny bit concerned about rodents invading my new home. So I figured that if I kept the feline patrol outside I would not have any issues.

During my last trip to Germany in September, I purchased and brought back a touring bike to make quick shopping trips to Fairway easier. The car in my garage these days is a white Porsche Cayman S. This car I christened E.V.A. after the little white robot in the WallE movie. Maybe you have seen us in the neighborhood. Some of my favorite places are Hope and Anchor, home/ made and the Brooklyn Crab shack. The first year went by faster that I would have ever thought. I cannot even believe what took me so long to move to Brooklyn. It is funny how one gets attached to situations that are less than ideal just because one is used to them!

In addition to cats, I have a ragtag band of opossums and raccoons coming by on a nightly basis. One raccoon is so tame he eats out of my hand. I should also mention that one of the cats moved inside last August. Basil, my orange tabby still likes to go outside but clearly prefers the plush life indoors.

Now it is already 2014, and I am motivated to seriously start looking for my very own dream home. Preferably a small garage building that I can fix up myself.

In summer, with geraniums and lavenChristmas 2012 with the Porsche der in full bloom, I built some outdoor benches and invested in a barbecue grill. that has been lost in that area. My fantastic neighbors and I sometimes Little by little Red Hook recovered, and sit outside for a drink at night.

I look forward to many more happy years in Red Hook. It is a very special place, and I consider myself very lucky to be part of such a wonderful community.

show requires constant set changes in a variety of and recurring locations. To simplify this process, director and set designer, Bernard Bosio uses non-specific objects for the scenery to create various roles for each piece.

along the upstage wall. Entry points and specific placement of doors helps the audience follow the scene changes. For an elevator ride, one door slides half-way open, soft music is played, and a green light illuminates the interior space, creating the full experience of an elevator.

diverse outfits with instantly recognizable accessories.

Actors played multiple roles in the production, as many as seven characters for one actress. Quick and specific costume changes are a necessity, as audience members must quickly discern one from the other in the quick moving plot. Each character has specific and wildly

Director, Bernard Bosio has made several intellectual and sound choices with this selection. Although Alexa is the antagonist, there is much truth to her character’s motivation. In Alexa’s line, “You’re not the person you were born (continued on page 15)

Wooben boxes are constantly rearranged to transform into chairs, a plush couch at a nightclub and even rowed seating of a limousine. While this choice coerces the audience into using a little more imagination, the actors made specific choices to help alter the reality. Swed, while riding in the limousine, reaches down to turn up the radio as blasting rock and roll slams the ears of the audience. Later in the ride, Alexa and Evan pop outside the limo’s imaginary sun roof for some fresh air. While the details of the set may have been lacking, the actors helped the director achieve the site specific settings. The set also incorporates sliding panels

Then again, I am pretty comfortable where I am and if the search takes a little longer, then that is okay as well.

Skunk, up and coming rock and roll heavyweight wore a bright yellow bandana, while Ronald, a clerk at Saks 5th Avenue wore a crimson red button-up with a black bowtie. Both characters The lighting accompanying the show is were played by Knapp. well-rehearsed and aptly appropriate for Lytle played both Swen, a Swedish each scene. At the club where Evan and model; and Kaden, a record producer Alexa are sipping cocktails, bold color- and scorned lover of Alexa. Swek wore ing slowly flashes on and off, an effect a tank-top with a ratty short-sleeve the audience may have not noticed spe- button-up that was never buttoned and cifically, but set the stage perfectly for a usually untamed. Kaden wore a suit and posh nightclub one might expect to find tie with everything buttoned up to his the exotic Alexa in. Adam’s apple.

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“Adversity’s sweet milk, Philosophy” ~ Friar Lawrence in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Act III; Scene 3 Who draws the dividing lines in our society? And who decides whom should stand on which side of the line? Age old questions are not to be answered with a simple statement. Erasing well embedded lines drawn many generations ago proves difficult. William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is timeless because of such issues. And tragedy befalls the two youth that attempt to evade the issues. Students discussing the play often debate whether Juliet and Romeo are fools or heroes. But to no avail - the lovers are both, and yet somehow neither. In an age where we are still divided by invisible boundaries, the story still resonates with a clear message. Falconworks Artists Group will be performing the classic love story in June 2014 aimed to tackle these modern day challenges of race, economic and gentrification issues facing society. In a press release issued by Founder and Director, Reg Flowers wrote the show “will highlight [the] divisions in society and provoke further exploration of issues.” “The play will be set in a world of social upheaval and rebellion ripped from international headlines.” Flowers said. “ Audiences may also find similarities between the ‘two houses, both alike in dignity’ represented in the play and ‘front’ vs. ‘back’ tensions around gentrification, community policing, and more recent controversy over the BASIS private school where positions continue to be drawn along racial and class lines.” Romeo and Juliet is set in a time of rebellion. The “two houses” in the story, the Montagues and the Capulets are feuding foes, although the play never reveals the origin of the conflict. One is simply an enemy of the other, and the dividing line is not to be crossed. “This production will connect the struggle between the Montagues and the Capulets to historic class struggles

Jenny Belin’s Art

Olivia Hockenberry, who will play Juliet, and Adam Raicovich, cast as Romeo (photo by Reg Flowers)

and illustrate how resistance – even peaceful resistance – can be labeled as lawlessness; how maintaining order develops into violent repression,” the press release reads. Red Hook, home to the largest public housing community in Brooklyn, is facing rapid gentrification. After surviving Hurricane Sandy, Red Hook has caught the eye of the prominent developers that seek to bring affluence and notoriety into the neighborhood. With a high demand for waterfront property, new development could drive real estate prices up, forcing lifelong and longterm residents and business out of the neighborhood. Falconworks’ production will feature Red Hook youth, community members, internationally and ethnically diverse actors from all five boroughs. Olivia Hockenberry, age 15 will play Juliet; Adam Raicovich, age 17 will play her impassioned aficionado, Romeo. Other members of the cast include Stephanie, Batchelder, Matt Behan, Christian Fletcher, Dontae McCoy, and Rebecca Stabile. The entire company of more than 30 actors ranges from professional actors to community members who have never been on stage. Reg Flowers will direct the show.

Boudoir Portrait of Helena Bonham Carter, in Turquoise Silk Actress Helena Bonham Carter has a boldly unique sense of style and character. This doll-faced painting of her was inspired by a photograph found in a vintage fashion magazine. Jenny’s work can be found at the Brooklyn Collective, 212 Columbia Street

Location and specific dates have not been announced as of press time.

Red Hook Superstar

That’s Billy Durney (r) with his brother back at the opening of his beloved Hometown BBQ. He is the nicest, quietest and most generous man you’d like to meet, and even if you are a vegetarian you have to love this gentle family man who has already accomplished so much in Red Hook.

Page 12 Red Hook Star-Revue

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March, 2014

HEALTHY BY

TRACEY Got The Winter Blues? It feels like this winter has lasted a lifetime. With the days being shorter, nights colder and lack of sunshine, it can really get a person down. The “winter blues” are characterized by mild depression, lack of motivation and an overall sense of low energy. Luckily, I have some great tips on how to beat the last few weeks of the winter blues. Movement: Get out and move your body. By going outside for 20 minutes three times a week, your body will feel great and relieve stress. Plus, it releases those “feel good chemicals” to boost your mood. The type of movement you prefer is up to you. Just get out there, smile and work it! Eat a healthy diet: Eating foods that don’t have essential vitamins and minerals, deplete your body of energy. Stay away from highly processed, refined sugars (a.k.a. simple carbohydrates.) Muffins, cookies, and white pasta spike your insulin levels (sugar rush), leaving you tired and cranky (crash and burn). Opt for whole grains, like brown rice, vegetables and fruit to keep you satiated and full of energy throughout the day. Get some sun: With the lack of sunshine during the winter months, we lose out on essential Vitamin D, our mood enhancing vitamin. The lack of sunshine can cause people to become depressed without really knowing why. Similiar to movement, sunlight releases neurotransmitters in the brain that affect mood. Try spending more time outdoors. Open your shades first thing in the morning and leave them open. Change your light bulbs to full spectrum. Full spectrum light mimics natural light and actually has the same effects on your mind as the real thing. Vitamin D supplements can help you get your proper daily dose as well. Talk to your doctor before choosing a dosage. Stop Binge Drinking: You worked hard all day in this winter weather, and having a cold beer or a glass of red wine would be perfect. Many people turn to alcohol when they are feeling down but alcohol is a depressant and only makes you feel worse. Moderate drinking is fine for most people but binge drinking - defined as 5 or more in

one sitting - is an unhealthy choice. The morning after, you will feel even more depressed, low energy and a bad mood even worse. Treat yourself: One way to get through the winter blues is by treating yourself to something special. If you plan something exciting, your mood improves when you are anticipating it and when the event actually comes. Plan something that’s exciting to you, perhaps a spa day, a night out with the girls/guys, or a special event like a play or a sporting event. Or my personal favorite, shopping. Relax: I’m a wife, mom of twin boys and a business owner; needless to say, I’m busy…just like you. Even if you enjoy being busy, there is a time when we just have to slow down and say no to extra activities. By slowing down and relaxing you will be able to think clearly, be present and maybe even laugh. Try heading into bed a little earlier one evening, read a book that inspires you, or meditate. Meditation has shown to be one of the best way to beat depression. Embrace the season: Yes, it does feel like this has been the longest winter but there’s only a few weeks left, therefore embrace it. Perhaps the Winter Olympics inspired you to try a new sport? There is still time to try skiing, ice skating, snowboarding or hockey so enjoy these opportunities while they last. Staying active will keep you positive and with all the fun activities Winter has to offer, keeping your spirits high. Get your ZZZ’s: In the winter months, we want to sleep in a bit more. But with all the running around we do, sometime sleep is the first thing to go. But with some daily goal setting, and self discipline you can get your shut eye needs. Try to aim for 7-8 hours of sleep a night, making bedtime and wake time, consistent. Your sleep patterns will normalize and you will feel energized. Try not to oversleep, those 12 hour sleeping sessions on the weekends will only make you more tired. Don’t forget those naps! You only need a 10 to 30 minute cat nap to help you feel refreshed and ready to conquer the rest of the day. Reader’s Voice: Tell us how you stay positive and happy throughout the winter months? Email editor@redhookstar.com or send your letters to 101 Union Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231. Tracey is a Red Hook resident and graduate of the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. She works with her clients to build and maintain healthy lifestyles. For more healthy lifestyle info visit her website HealthybyTracey.com.

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WAY BACK WHEN

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The late Sal Meglio behind the bar at his favorite hangout, the VFW post on Van Brunt. This photo was snapped on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2010.

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Heights Players

Newsbriefs (continued from page 5)

- who wonderful is? You’re the person you were meant to be,” she is exposing a dark secret about herself. Evan, the protagonist, and eventually the downfall of Alexa, is not entirely perfect, but has his own character flaws that allow him to be duped. Ambition and inexperience lead him right into Alexa’s trap.

Red Hook Fest Returns!

Alexa’s recurring line, “As bees in honey drown,” suggests that she may be the bee drowning in her own honey, even though she portrays a persona that seems to have every single bit of life figured out.

On Friday, June 6, a community dinner and block party will be in the PS 15 playground from 6-8 pm.

(continued from page 11)

“There are so many people waiting to criticize or capitalize and all you want to do is make something that will connect with other people so that we all won’t feel so profoundly alone,” she says. And that’s exactly what she creates for herself. An imaginary life of affluence and fresh creative energy masking her loneliness. “There are pitfalls, dead ends, unscrupulous opportunists, and outright con artists that wait for the unwary, the naïve, the overly trusting,” writes Bosio. “All of us are aware of numerous real-life examples of artists losing their art, their fortunes, their lives.” Although Evan is the artist on stage who is taken advantage of, perhaps in some way, Alexa’s first con was herself, depriving herself of her true identity and ultimately losing her own art to become something other than herself. As Bees in Honey Drown runs through March 16 on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm. For reservations, call (718) 237-2752 or visit www. heightsplayers.org. Tickets are $20, or $18 for seniors and youths under 18.

Neighborhood picks Red Hook Rising projects

Dance Theater Etcetera (DTE) has officially announced their 21st annual Red Hook fest from June 5-June 7. The weekend begins on Thursday, June 5 with the Youth Kick-Off Event at Jalopy theater from 5:30-7 pm at Jalopy Theater.

The festival main stage events on Saturday, June 7 will be at Valentino Park from 12-7 pm, with a rain date on Sunday, June 8. Every year, the Red Hook Fest features an eclectic mix of music and dance from all over the city. There are also activities for kids and adults of all ages including kayaking in the New York Harbor, face-painting and Red Hook Trivia Game Night. Every year, the festival brings more than 4,000 people to Red Hook throughout the weekend. It is the largest event in Red Hook.

Summer Youth: Now Hiring

The 2014 Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is accepting applications for youth ages 14-24 who have permanent residence within the five boroughs. The application period is open from March 3 through April 25. Anyone who wants to apply can complete and submit an application by visiting www.nyc.gov/dycd.

Data Compiling for Youth Incarcerations Proposed

In late February, Public Advocate, Latitia James introduced legislation that would require the NYPD to create reports on the total number of minors arrested for violations The report would include the charges, age and race of the arrested youth, the precinct of the arrest, and whether or not the location of the arrest corresponds to the address of

Red Hook was invited to Realty Collective on Van Brunt Street a couple of weekends ago to view the top nine projects chosen by the Red Hook version of NY Rising. One of those projects will receive a $3 million grant by NY State. Each project was described by a wall poster, and visitors were invited to pick their choices using colored dots. Among the projects was a co-generation plant for the Red Hook Houses, expanded Ferry Service, solar powered lights for the hallways at the Houses, workforce training, and a network of community centers. Milton Puryear of the Brooklyn Greenway Initiative made a presentation on Saturday describing their efforts to combine resiliency with their bicycle pathway.

a school. Currently, only the School Safety division compiles data on juvenile arrests. When arrests are made outside of the schools jurisdiction by police officers not stationed at the school, no record is made. James said, “The goal of this legislation is to protect youth from unjustified arrests.

Real time bus tracker finds its way to Brooklyn

The final rollout of MTA’s real-time bus tracker will be in Brooklyn on March 9. Riders will be able to access a map of a bus’ location on their smart-phones. People without smart-phones can send a text to find out how many stops away

the bus is. Riders can also use their QR Code Readers to scan information about a bus’ whereabouts. GPS devices will be placed inside buses so that MTA can also track every route. To access the tracking system, passengers can enter an intersection, street address, bus route, bus stop code, or even a nearby landmark at www.bustime.mta.info. To access the information without a smart-phone, users should text either their intersection or street address to 511123. MTA Bus Time will respond with a message detailing all of the routes nearby. After selecting a route, passengers will be sent another message about where the next bus is.

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