77TH YEAR, NO. 3,954
THURSDAY, JULY 13, 2017
TWO SECTIONS
50 CENTS
At Issue: Citi Bike Versus Parking? SEE PAGE 2
BBP Cuts Green Ribbon To Open 3.4 Acres At Pier 5
FROM LEFT: LISA BRUNO, MOM REBECCA RODDICK AND MILO RODDICK, AGE 3. RODDICK, DIRECTOR OF HORTICULTURE AT BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK, SAID THE PARK IS LOOKING Heights Press photo by Mary Frost to hire another full-time and a seasonal gardener because 3.5 additional acres of the park have recently opened. See page 4.
Brooklyn Heights Association Files Motion to Halt Start Of Pier 6 Construction at Start of Busy Park Season SEE PAGE 3
www.24middagh.com www.24middagh.com
Leaders Gather in Cobble Hill to Call for Community Board Approval of Citi Bike Expansion By John Alexander
Brooklyn Heights Press
Bay Ridge-Dyker Heights City Council candidate John Quaglione held a press conference at the intersection of Clinton and Congress streets in Cobble Hill on Friday. He was joined by Cobble Hill resident and community leader Daniel Arbeeny and June Johnson, a member of Community Board 10 (Bay RidgeDyker Heights-Fort Hamilton). “We believe Citi Bike is great for our community,” said Quaglione, “as long as it doesn’t take away our parking spaces.” Quaglione stipulated the need for community board approval of Citi Bike expansion, noting that members of a neighborhood know the best places to install the bike racks, which take up valuable parking spaces. Quaglione wanted to get in front of the Citi Bike issue as the city continues to look to expand the program throughout the five boroughs. The first step, according to Quaglione, is the need for community input before any location is decided upon, and that would require community board approval as to what location would be deemed acceptable for a city bike station to be put in place. “We’re taking into consideration if we put it on a sidewalk it would have to be an appropriately sized sidewalk so that it doesn’t impede pedestrian traffic, wheelchairs or baby carriages,” said Quaglione. “There are locations in the area that are completely off the radar that would be a nonstarter because the parking in Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights, Bensonhurst and Bath Beach is already at such a premium.” “When the Department of Transportation put up a NoStanding zone on the corner of 91st Street and Colonial Road for example, to improve visibility because of accidents, the loss of that one spot created such an uproar from the neighbors in that surrounding area. And that’s just over one spot. These Citi Bike stations can take up to 10 or 12 spots, the length of 10 cars.” As a result, Quaglione wants the community board to be involved and have a public hearing process which would be orchestrated by the board or the transportation committee. “You would need to give people the opportunity to come and speak for or against it. You need a process,” Quaglione added. He suggested a few specific locations that would benefit from Citi Bike racks such as Leif Ericson Park, by the 69th Street Pier where people could park their bikes before boarding the ferry, or take a bike for a ride along the bicycle path that stretches from the pier to Caesar’s Bay. He added, “There are ideal locations and we support the Citi Bike program for getting cars off the
Citi Bike rack on the corner of Clinton Street and Congress Street in Cobble Hill. road, easing traffic and helping get people around the city in a more healthy way and in a more environmentally friendly way.” Quaglione’s hope is that community board input would impede putting a Citi Bike station in a heavily residential area or a heavily commercial location. “If you take 10, five or six docking stations, you’re knocking out 50 or 60 more parking spots so the
City Council Candidate John Quaglione, Community Board 10 member June Johnson and Cobble Hill community leader Heights Press photo by John Alexander Daniel Arbeeny (left to right). 2 • Brooklyn Heights Press • Thursday, July 13, 2017
Heights Press photos by John Alexander
problem just blossoms and becomes completely out of control.” Johnson said she would be happy if “Citi Bike presented its plans before a community board of 50 members who are appointed by our councilmember. It would first be brought to our committee, which is made up of residents of all ages and from all different backgrounds throughout the community, and then it would be presented to the general public to discuss it. In this way, the community would help decide where the bike racks would be placed.” Arbeeny, a former member of the Cobble Hill Association, stressed that Citi Bike was necessary and needed, and that they do not want to hinder its growth, but admitted that the challenge is how to balance this with quality of life issues. He said it could take up to two hours to park a car in his neighborhood and that the loss of parking spaces would only exacerbate the problem. “They came to us in Cobble Hill and said ‘this is what we’re doing, and there was no input,” said Arbeeny. “They did listen to some of the locational suggestions, which was nice, but they didn’t have to do anything. The fact that they can dictate to you the size and number, and that they are going to do it regardless is inappropriate in a community context.” Peter Bray, the executive director of the Brooklyn Heights Association (BHA) expressed his support for the Citi Bike program and praised the Department of Transportation (DOT) for engaging with the community. He said that when Citi Bike was planning where to place their stations they offered the BHA input and consulted with them on the best locations for the bike racks. Bray also told the Brooklyn Heights Press that DOT approached BHA, Community Board 2 and the Boerum Hill Association with a proposal for a pilot car share program that would require space for individuals to use smart cars such as Car2go and Zipcar for short-term lease. “We live in a changing world,” said Bray. “This program has been implemented in other cities and on the West Coast, and it serves to free up more parking spaces. It’s a trend that may grow over time.”
Brooklyn Heights Association Files Motion to Halt Start of Pier 6 Construction at Start of Busy Park Season By Mary Frost
Brooklyn Heights Press
Even before the court decision on Brooklyn Bridge Park’s proposed Pier 6 towers, the developers for Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation have filed to begin work the day after what will likely be the final court date. But the century-old neighborhood watchdog group Brooklyn Heights Association, alerted to the move, immediately countered. On Sunday, June 30, the Brooklyn Heights Association (BHA) filed a motion in court seeking to halt the developers from starting construction of the two controversial towers right at the start of the park’s busy summer season. BHA wants the court to issue a temporary restraining order or preliminary injunction, the organization said. This move came after attorneys for BHA received word on
June 28 that RAL Development Services and Oliver’s Realty Group intend to start construction at Pier 6 on or after July 19. The developers were required to send three weeks’ notice to BHA as part of a stipulation the parties entered into about a year ago, shortly after BHA filed a lawsuit challenging the development. July 19 is one day after the next court appearance that Supreme Court Justice Lucy Billings has scheduled concerning BHA’s Article 78 petition, which will take place at 2:30 p.m. on July 18 in Manhattan. This will likely be the final court appearance in the case, according to BHA. BHA said in an affidavit submitted to the court that construction is expected to commence “with at least two months of piledriving activity in which the developers hammer more than 400 100-foot steel beams 90 feet into the ground to reach bedrock at both Parcels A and B. That activity will generate unbearable
noise for neighbors and park visitors alike; it threatens essentially to shut down the playgrounds and park areas at Pier 6 and adjacent sections of the park during the height of the summer visitor season.” Last summer, Brooklyn Bridge Park said that the increasingly popular park welcomed 330,000 visitors every week. Todd Castilow, a resident of 1 Brooklyn Bridge Park, said in an affidavit that given the time it took developers to drive four test piles at each of the two sites, “we expect the high-decibel noise for the driving of the total of 414 piles at Parcels A and B will necessarily continue for months.” Castilow said he is a retired partner from Accenture where he led a segment of the company’s U.S. technology consulting practice. He said in his affidavit that his apartment does not face the planned development. Continued on page 4
Thursday, July 13, 2017 • Brooklyn Heights Press • 3
BBP Cuts Green Ribbon to Open 3.4 Acres at Pier 5 Brooklyn Heights Press
Now there’s more of Brooklyn Bridge Park (BBP) to love. Last Thursday, officials cut the ribbon to open 3.4 new acres of lawns, a shaded picnic grove and meandering paths around a grassy sound-blocking berm, nestled in the uplands just east of the Picnic Peninsula at Pier 5. This brings the park’s construction to more than 80 percent complete, BBP said in a statement Thursday. The underlying design principal is to provide a “restful counterpoint to the activities at the adjacent Pier 5 sports fields and Picnic Peninsula,” the park said. What Follows Is a Statement from BBP: Capital funding for the new parkland was secured through allocations from the City of New York. BBP President Eric Landau was joined by Deputy Mayor Alicia Glen, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, state Sen. Daniel Squadron, Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon, Councilmember Levin and NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver. “With the park now 80 percent complete, today marks an important milestone for Brooklyn Bridge Park,” said Eric Landau, BBP president. “Today’s opening is a great way to kick off the summer season and we know the Pier 5 uplands will become a popular attraction for all park visitors.” “We are so thrilled to officially open the Pier 5 uplands, adding another 3.4 acres of new parkland just in time for summer,” said Deputy Mayor Alicia Glen. “Our administration will keep working every day to keep this park on strong footing so it won’t just keep expanding, but will remain clean, safe and well-cared-for for generations to come.” “Parks and recreational spaces are places for serenity and healing, and we should expand access to them for all Brooklynites,” said
Officials cut the ribbon (from left): Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon, state Sen. Daniel Squadron, Deputy Mayor Alicia Glen, BBP President Eric Landau, Borough President Eric Adams, NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver, and Brooklyn Bridge Park members Heights Press photos by Mary Frost Joanne Witty and Edna Wells Handy. Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams. “I commend Brooklyn Bridge Park for its commitment to providing much-needed green space along the Brooklyn Waterfront with this new additional acreage. As the pieces of the puzzle of the park come together to near completion, I hope all Brooklynites take advantage of this beautiful space and its wonderful views of the Brooklyn Bridge.” “For so many New Yorkers, visitors and families, Brooklyn Bridge Park serves as a place to relax and enjoy outdoor recreation,’ said Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-NY). “The new Pier 5 uplands is equipped with terraced lawns and restful seating areas, which will be enjoyed by Brooklyn residents and all those who visit. I
applaud all those at Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation who made today’s opening possible.” “Today, I am thrilled to celebrate the opening of new parkland at the Pier 5 uplands in Brooklyn Bridge Park,” said Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon. “Visitors can now enjoy expanded parkland with sloped and terraced lawns, a grove with additional seating, and sound-attenuating hills. This new restful area of the park complements its already bustling sports and picnic areas, making our treasured park even better. Thanks to the City of New York and the Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation for continuing to improve and beautify our waterfront.”
Rebecca Roddick, director of horticulture at BBP, and her son Milo meander across a swath of the newly opened area upland of Pier 5 in BBP.
Brooklyn Heights Association Files Motion to Halt Start of Pier 6 Construction at Start of Busy Park Season Continued from page 3 In June 2016, the park’s board voted to approve the joint venture of RAL and Oliver’s Realty Group to develop the two residential buildings at the Pier 6 site. The taller building is set to be 30 stories high, while the shorter building would be 16 stories. BHA says the park’s approval of the project violates the law that governs development at the park. An agreement with the city
requires that real estate development in the park be limited to only the amount necessary to fund the park’s financial needs. Attorneys for BHA argue that real estate taxes have increased dramatically, thus bringing in more income than the park projected, and claim that the park corporation hadn’t made a case showing financial need for the Pier 6 development. Attorneys representing the park said that
4 • Brooklyn Heights Press • Thursday, July 13, 2017
the park corporation board had determined that income from the entire Pier 6 development is needed to fund the park. A park spokesperson told the Brooklyn Heights Press on Wednesday, “The proposed development at Pier 6 will provide essential long-term funding for the park, as well as needed affordable housing and union construction jobs. We look forward to next steps in the process.”
“The Pier 5 uplands are bringing even more parkland to one of New York’s world-class waterfront parks — and just in time for summer,” said state Sen. Squadron. "Brooklyn Bridge Park continues to be a wonderful part of New York’s Harbor Park — a Central Park for the center of our city. Thank you to Eric Landau and the Brooklyn Bridge Park Corp, City, Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, and my colleagues in government." “Creating more green space for the community to enjoy is no small feat,” said Councilmember Stephen Levin. “Acre by acre, an accessible oasis from the hustle and bustle of city living is taking shape. This is a space for everyone in Brooklyn — from anywhere and of any age. I applaud Brooklyn Bridge Park for its commitment to this vision, and I look forward to more great open space to come.” “NYC Parks is proud to be a part of Brooklyn Bridge Park’s exciting journey toward completion, as it continues to evolve into one of New York City’s premiere park destinations,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver. “The new Pier 5 space is sure to be a haven for park-goers to cool off and relax amidst the hustle and bustle of downtown Brooklyn, and we look forward to seeing it come to life this summer. Thanks to our partners at Brooklyn Bridge Park and our dedicated elected officials for investing in this beloved shared public space.” Michael Van Valkenburgh, president and CEO of Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, Inc. said, “The Pier 5 Uplands is a particularly exciting moment in the incremental construction of Brooklyn Bridge Park. Terraced lawns and a shaded picnic grove are linked by meandering paths and cradled in the final portion of the park’s sound attenuation berm, making this site a tranquil and expansive counterpoint to the more actively programmed water’s edge landscape of Pier 5.” “The Pier 5 uplands will add beautiful lawns and seating space to our already vibrant park,” said Nancy Webster, executive director of Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy. “We’re excited to see this section come to life, and we look forward to welcoming more visitors to the waterfront.” BBP’s designers, Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, continue to use the park’s material palette of rocky rip rap, wooden benches and salvaged granite. Topographic changes echo the design language found throughout the Park with elevations increasing by 10 to 15 feet to create dynamic changes in how visitors perceive the River and the views to the Harbor. The design also includes the second of the Park’s soundattenuating hills. The 35 foot long berm is designed to mitigate noise from the adjacent Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. Additional amenities will be available to visitors when work is completed this fall. Set into the hillside will be a new boathouse that includes public restrooms. A new access point will be created at the Montague Street Turnaround. Finally, a new building will provide critical work space for BBP’s Maintenance and Operations teams at the southern end of the park.
BROOKLYN EAGLE Restored Henry Ward Beecher Monument Unveiled SEE PAGES 4-5
Eagle photo by Andy Katz
Volume 17, No. 45
Two Sections
THURSDAY, JULY 13, 2017
$1.00
G
uest Editorial Opinion
Whither Red Hook: Can We Balance Industry By Uday Schultz
Special to Brooklyn Eagle
As this decade comes to close, our city faces a crisis of use. The past 30 years have brought us a war of uses; a paradigmatic struggle for New York’s future, one that has largely taken place along the 520 miles of waterfront that edge the city. Over this time span, our city simultaneously experienced rank deindustrialization and explosive rebirth. These forces — while superficially contrary in nature — complimented each other, one providing a massive amount of unique, available space, and the other providing a brisk market that could absorb it. With few civic attempts to shield New York’s industrial zones from this gyre, they were promptly inducted — tectonically shifting the nature of such neighborhoods as DUMBO, Long Island City, and Hell’s Kitchen. In light of industrial obsoletion and residential demand, some of this repurposing may not have been a bad thing, but in future pursuance of such change, we must neither overdevelop nor misdevelop these areas. While more residential space is sorely needed in this city, building such space without giving thought to functional balance is to hurt our city, worsening our current crisis. We need to build more holistic communities — places that provide more services than just housing. One neighborhood that faces such a dilemma today is Red Hook. From being a bustling port district isolated from the rest of Brooklyn by the Gowanus Expressway, the peninsula has been overrun with development and is seemingly being transformed it into one of Brooklyn’s top destinations. Yet there, the transformation from industrial to industro-chic is not complete. Despite the myriad artisan coffee shops and restaurants, there remains a sizable remnant of the working waterfront — the Red Hook Container Terminal. Recently, there has been much discussion of the Port Authority-owned property’s future, one in which seemingly all options — including the cessation of port activity — are on the table. The terminal — once one of many — has certainly seen better days, with container shipments dropping from a peak of 60,000 handled per year down toward 35,000. While such volumes are not insignificant, these numbers, coupled with the reality that operations have to be heavily subsidized to be profitable, are correctly raising questions as to whether the current use model for the Red Hook waterfront is working. This asset — these acres of industrial land — are not
INSET: The Red Hook Container Terminal’s fence.
attaining their highest and best use, and given the current realities, that situation is untenable. However, while reexamining the Terminal, we must be careful to acquiesce to the siren song that is unthinking residential development. Many — most notably AECOM in their study of last year — advocate for the segregation of uses — the movement of port facilities and industry south to Sunset Park or west to New Jersey. While the author disagrees with such arguments, the viability of such claims highlights the issue that while necessary for New York in a more global sense, in the sphere of Red Hook, the Terminal is a floating asset. Yes, it employs hundreds of dock workers, but aside from those jobs, its benefits are realized elsewhere. Not only is it physically walled off from the neighborhood, but as Red Hook’s manufacturers are for all intents and purposes gone, the locale cannot reap any of the transportational benefits that it provides. This last reality especially helps the developers’ cases in that moving the port to, say, the now-vacant South Brooklyn Marine Terminal would actually increase its facilitative efficacy while keeping longshoring jobs within geographic reach of current employees. In short, while an argument for the terminal’s necessity on a regional scale can absolutely be made, its need on a local scale is more amorphous, locationoptional. Thus, if we want to keep the land industrial, we must provide a realistic counter to the tide of residential development, a function for the land that will be immovable, integrated into the community and smart in the context of the inevitable development of the Red Hook. Luckily, Red Hook has much to draw from for inspiration, even just on the Brooklyn Waterfront. In one direction, there is the Navy Yard, a bustling industrial park that has managed to carve a secure niche for itself, one that serves a host of commercial and industrial uses. To the south, there is Industry City, a veritable warren of small manufacturers and technologists that serves the growing micro-manufacturing base. And almost directly across from Red Hook, there lies the SIMS recycling facility, living evidence that larger industry can still survive — thrive even — on the waterfront if so encouraged. Red Hook should by no means copy any of these models. Aside from engaging in the destructive variety of competition, duplication would not only perpetuate the flaws in each of these projects, but also would neglect to leverage the specific conditions unique to the neighborhood. Those who want to preserve industry should attempt to capture both the value of the port and the need for more industrial space on the waterfront by convert-
ing some of the Terminal into a sort of amalgamation of the three aforementioned projects. In place of some of the container laydown space, or possibly on the piers adjacent to Cobble Hill, wholly new, purpose-built industrial spaces could be constructed, the first such development in decades. In order to gain maximum utility from the container facility, these should be geared toward slightly larger businesses than Industry City, but they also should provide facilities where small business and startups can work with these anchor tenants, synergizing the benefits of both models. In concert with this reimagination of the working waterfront, these new spaces should be opened up to the community, integrating them into both the physical and social fabric of the area. Such a project could serve as a node around which Red Hook can undergo development. Instead of the seemingly inexorable and unspecific plastering of Brooklyn with shiny towers for Manhattan commuters, a more community-minded approach could be taken, one that aims to both create and provide for local workers. Focusing economic activity insularly would serve to amplify community impact, bringing wealth to residents and allowing them to break away from the black hole of Manhattan. Of course some residents will inevitably work there, and should be provided for with, say, the conversion of the B57 or 61 to Select Bus Service. But instead of creating yet another community beholden to the core, planners should strive to create a separate economic hub, one that can attract commuters in its own right. Continued on page 3
War of the skylines.
Portside Red Hook. 2 • Brooklyn Eagle • Thursday, July 13, 2017
Eagle photos by Uday Schultz
G
uest Editorial Opinion
With Residential Influx, So Both Can Thrive?
Continued from page 2 This reimagining of the Container Terminal should be just one part of a larger push to dynamize Red Hook — and the Brooklyn waterfront in general — by creating a vibrant, mixed string of communities that will serve not just one purpose, one master. If built thoughtfully, they will incorporate residential, industrial, commercial and recreational uses into their fabric, providing a necessary counterpoint to the economic monolith that is Manhattan. Our current crisis of transit, of housing, of civic identity has much to do with overcentralization. Because we have so firmly placed our economic engines in Manhattan and areas of the outer boroughs directly adjacent to it, we have created massive, largely unidirectional commute flows that not only serve to overcrowd our subways, but also to create a housing hierarchy largely based on time to those areas. Furthermore, the great explosion of jobs and capital into the core’s core has — in relative terms — homogenized the socioeconomic fabric of our city. Instead of jobs and people mixing in close quarters to each other as they are supposed to in classic cities, we have this inexorably growing distance between the two, a feature that is the hallmark of suburbia. Because of these very same trends, the Brooklyn Waterfront struggling with its future. Large amounts of (mostly residential) development are taking place, yet at the same time, fragments of its industrial past remain, increasingly alienated from the communities as a whole. To not be overcome by the wave of development, planners, civic leaders and citizens must attempt to meld the two trends, creating symbiotic structures that will grow to something bigger. These economically active waterfront communities would then serve as alternate destinations for commuters, creating new flows in our city, thereby breaking up the daily pulse of people entering and exiting Manhattan. Whether in Red Hook, Sunset Park or Greenpoint, creating diverse communities is key to our city’s future. We must rethink development.
Trucks in the sunset at Atlantic Basin.
Ropes lie neatly piled at Atlantic Basin.
Eagle photos by Uday Schultz
New development rises directly adjacent to the Terminal. Is this the future of Red Hook?
Cranes and the borough they built. Thursday, July 13, 2017 • Brooklyn Eagle • 3
Henry Ward Beecher Monument Restoration Unveiled in Columbus Park MASNYC’s ‘Adopt-a-Monument’ Program Brings NYC Parks Department, NYC Public Design Commission to Brooklyn Icon By Andy Katz
Special to Brooklyn Eagle
“‘It is not well for a man to pray cream and live as skim milk,’” Dr. John Scibilia said, quoting the Reverend Henry Ward Beecher. Scibilia, executive director of the Plymouth Church of the Pilgrims, stood at the lectern set in the center of Columbus Park, just a few feet beyond bustling Johnson Street on Thursday, June 22. Before him were rows of people seated in collapsible chairs, and to one side stood members of an adult choir in white choral robes. Behind Scibilia, a golden cloth-covered edifice rose 15 feet into the air. The Reverend Henry Ward Beecher was Plymouth Church of the the Pilgrims’ first minister and one of the most famous, renowned and controversial men of the 19th century. A staunch opponent of slavery, Beecher held mock slave auctions to raise the funds to buy freedom for individuals in bondage. Sharpes rifles, purchased by Beecher for use by abolitionist forces in Bleeding Kansas, became known as “Beecher Bibles.” Beecher expressed many other progressive ideals, favoring suffrage for women and accepting evolution as consistent with Christian teachings. Beecher’s speaking tour of Europe, undertaken at the behest of President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, was widely credited with preventing European nations from recognizing the Confederacy. Continued on page 11
Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams addresses the audience prior to the unveiling.
Pulitzer Prize winning biographer of Henry Ward Beecher Debby Applegate speaks with the uncovered monument in the background. Eagle photos by Andy Katz 4 • Brooklyn Eagle • Thursday, July 13, 2017
NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver addresses the audience.
A Special Section of BROOKLYN EAGLE Publications
July 13-19, 2017
At the beginning of the 20th century, this neighborhood north of Sheepshead Bay and east of Gravesend was called Homecrest by the Sea. It was dotted with fine stand-alone houses like 2167 East 12th St. Today, Homecrest still has its share of picturesque Victorian houses, but they are in modern dress — covered with relatively modern siding, stucco or additions. Read all about the neighborhood’s housing stock in EYE ON REAL ESTATE, pages 2-4INB.
INBrooklyn photo by Lore Croghan
Victorians In Modern Dress — in Homecrest
Do You Know the Way to Homecrest by the Sea? By Lore Croghan INBrooklyn
By the sea, by the sea, by the beautiful sea. Can you hear this song from long ago wafting on the summer breeze? It was written a century ago, back when Brooklyn’s Atlantic Ocean shoreline was a dreamy get-away from the rigors of workaday life in the big city. It made perfect sense that back then, at the start of the 20th century, the builders of Homecrest by the Sea gave this poetic name to the neighborhood just east of Gravesend and north of Sheepshead Bay. Though it’s close to the ocean compared with inland spots like, say for instance, Crown Heights, Homecrest by the Sea isn’t really right by the sea if you’re going to be annoyingly literal. From there, it’s a 12minute B68 bus ride plus a four-minute walk to the Brighton Beach shoreline. These days, people use the shortened name Homecrest for the intriguing neighborhood. We’re kinda sorry the longer version fell out of favor. The neighborhood is bounded by Ocean Parkway, Kings Highway, East 16th Street and Avenue V, says “The Neighborhoods of Brooklyn,” the indispensable book edited by Kenneth T. Jackson and John B. Manbeck.
buildings isn’t a house. It’s Homecrest Presbyterian Church at 1413 Avenue T, which dates back to 1900. The handsome, oldfashioned house of worship has a tower with a distinctive roof and is set on a huge landscaped lawn. As an indication of Homecrest’s multicultural population, Homecrest Presbyterian Church has a multiethnic congregation.
A Victorian Church For a Victorian Neighborhood The first properties to be built in Homecrest by the Sea were standalone Victorian houses. One of the neighborhood’s great, outstanding Victorian
INSET: This handsome house can be found at 1888 East 8th St.
Also, it shares its historic building with the Brooklyn Alliance Church, whose congregation is Chinese-American. On other streets of the neighborhood, Sephardic Orthodox synagogues and a Sephardic community center can be found. Some houses have mezuzahs on their doorposts. Others have statues of the Madonna or various saints in their front gardens.
Another notable Homecrest house is at 1806 East 8th St.
On commercial streets, businesses have signs in Russian.
Victorians in Modern Dress As for Homecrest’s houses, to this day, Victorians can be found in the neighborhood. To borrow a phrase from classical theater directors, these are Victorians in modern dress. Some of these superb old houses are covered with stucco, others with siding, some with both. Some have brick additions on them. Our hands-down favorite is 2042 East 14th St. Photos don’t do it justice. The century-plus-old standalone house has a terrific wrap-around porch and a vast side yard hidden behind a picturesque, ivy-covered fence. According to city Finance Department records, the parcel of land on which the house stands is 80 feet wide and 100 feet deep. Out front, there’s one of the tallest trees we’ve ever seen in Brooklyn. The handsome home has belonged to various members of the Mook family over the past several decades, Finance Department records indicate. The name of an early inhabitant of the house, Peter J. Monaghan, appears in a 1908 annual report of the New York City Department of Docks and Ferries. He was a watchman. Another one of our favorite Victorians can be found at 2167 East 12th St. It, too has a wraparound porch. The front of the house has a modified octagon shape. The lawn is large. Over the past several decades, various members of the Trani family have owned the East 12th Street house, Finance Department records indicate.
New Mansions and the Lighthouse Homecrest also has its share of recently built mansions and distinctive new houses. Continued on page 3INB
INBrooklyn photos by Lore Croghan
2INB • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • Week of July 13-19, 2017
Doesn’t 1855 East 7th St. look a bit like a country cottage?
This is charming 1821 East 8th St.
INBrooklyn photos by Lore Croghan
Continued from page 2INB For instance, in 1998, Morris Dweck and Sophia Dweck paid $400,000 for a house at 1888 East 8th St., Finance Department records indicate. Several years ago, Morris Dweck had it demolished and replaced with a handsome standalone red-brick house with a green tile roof. The neighborhood is also full of smaller semi-attached homes and rowhouses built in various decades of the 20th century. There are roses blooming all over the place. When we visited recently, we heard cardinals singing in the trees. See brooklyneagle.com for additional photos of Homecrest’s housing stock. There are mid-rise apartment buildings sprinkled here and there throughout Homecrest. Their exteriors aren’t eye-catching — except for the glass facade of the Lighthouse, Rychik Development’s newly constructed condo project at 1769 East 13th St.
Here’s a glimpse of Homecrest Presbyterian Church.
The old-fashioned charm of 1934 East 15th St. harkens back to the days when this neighborhood was called Homecrest by the Sea.
This old-fashioned house at 2146 East 9th St. has a unique facade. Week of July 13-19, 2017 • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • 3INB
Say Bye-Bye to This Fire-Ravaged House in Homecrest New Owner Filed for a Permit To Demolish 2139 East 16th St. By Lore Croghan INBrooklyn
There’s promising news for residents of East 16th Street in Homecrest. The new owner of 2139 East 16th St., a house that was ravaged by a fire, has filed for a city Buildings Department permit to tear it down. We’re ardent believers in preservation, renovation and rebuilding. But this two-story frame house looks bad. We can see the logic in demolishing it. The Buildings Department issued a full vacate order for the property in April 2015 due to “extensive interior fire damage,” agency records indicate. The new owner is Happy Prosper LLC with Soon H. Lee as member, which purchased the house for $820,000 in February, city Finance Department records indicate.
AT RIGHT: This Homecrest house at 2139 East 16th St., which is in sad shape after a fire, is going to be torn down. INBrooklyn photo by Lore Croghan
Say Bye-Bye to This Victorian Beauty in Homecrest Purchaser Said ‘Buy, Buy’ and 2068 East 14th St. Will Be Demolished By Lore Croghan INBrooklyn
See it soon, while there’s still time. A beautiful yellow Victorian house stands at 2068 East 14th St. in Homecrest. A huge circular sun porch topped by a turret makes it especially eye-catching. But soon the wrecking ball will be swinging. The new owner of the house plans to build a three-story, 46foot-tall commercial building with a community facility, city Buildings Department records indicate. The department has approved the owner’s applications for demolition permits for the two-story house and its one-story garage. The owner that’s planning to do away with the fine old Victorian is an LLC with Ann Y. Long as managing member — which paid $1.228 million for it in March, city Finance Department records indicate.
INBrooklyn photo by Lore Croghan
Farewell to this fine Victorian house at 2068 E. 14th St. in Homecrest. Its new owner plans to tear it down. 4INB • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • Week of July 13-19, 2017
New Commercial Opportunities In Brooklyn’s Coney Island
The long-awaited revival of Coney Island is well underway, sparked by investment in entertainment and amusement attractions that are reinvigorating the famed Brooklyn neighborhood and fueling its momentum. Complementing the area’s burgeoning entertainment scene is a growing demand for new commercial, retail and residential options that will accelerate Coney Island’s transformation into a dynamic live, work, play community that is well positioned for continued, sustainable growth. To meet this demand, Brooklyn-based real estate investment and development company Cammeby’s has embarked on the creation of Neptune/Sixth, poised to become Coney Island’s premier mixed-use neighborhood destination. The comprehensive re-imagination and revitalization of 532 Neptune Avenue and 626 Sheepshead Bay Road, Neptune/Sixth will create a hub of transportation, shopping, restaurants, residences and services for the Coney Island community, featuring premier retail and commercial space, ample parking, and an iconic 42-story residential tower. Outdoor landscaping and new seating areas will create connectivity between Neptune/Sixth’s buildings and contribute to the improved pedestrian experience afforded by this new neighborhood destination, designed by New York City-based S9 Architecture. On schedule to begin welcoming tenants by the end of 2017, Neptune/Sixth’s mixed-use retail, commercial and medical office building at 626 Sheepshead Bay Road is already experiencing tremendous interest from businesses seeking to occupy modern new construction commercial space. The building offers a block
of five contiguous floors totaling 97,524 square feet of new Class A office space, with units ranging from 1,000 square feet to up to a full floor of 19,581 square feet in order to accommodate large and small tenants alike. Complementary retail along the building’s street level is nearly fully leased, anchored by neighborhood department store DII. “We’re extremely excited to deliver a neighborhood-oriented development at Neptune/Sixth that will provide the area’s existing business community with new modern space to enhance their operations, while attracting new services and commercial tenants to the area for the benefit of residents and the community at large,” stated Jacob Cohen, executive vice president of development for Cammeby’s. “This development will play a critical role in contributing to Coney Island’s vitality and furthering its renaissance.” Neptune/Sixth occupies a strategic location with easy access off Exit 7 of the Belt Parkway, one block from the F, D & Q subway lines, and within walking distance of numerous bus stops. The development also offers hassle-free parking on site for tenants and patrons. Set to be home to a diverse mix of both retail shops and service-oriented business, Cammeby’s has announced lease agreements at 532 Neptune Avenue within Neptune/Sixth with regional grocery chain NetCost, Capital One, CVS Pharmacy and Apple Bank. For information about commercial leasing opportunities at Neptune/Sixth, contact The Lawrence Group at (646) 480-7297. For more information about Neptune/Sixth, visit www.neptunesixth.com. — Information from Neptune/Sixth
Week of July 13-19, 2017 • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • 5INB
Unique Contestant with Bensonhurst Roots Is A Hit on ‘MasterChef’ By John Alexander INBrooklyn
“MasterChef” is just one of the many terms one could use to describe Dino Angelo Luciano. The saxophone player, self-professed androgynous dancer and passionate artist pays homage to his Brooklyn roots as a standout contestant on this season’s “MasterChef.” Cooking is one of Luciano’s many passions, and it is the one that has shined a spotlight on him. The multitalented California-born, Bensonhurst-bred Luciano’s Brooklyn-sized personality has made him such a standout contestant on “MasterChef,” the popular Fox cooking show hosted by chef Gordon Ramsey, with judges Christina Tosi and Aaron Sanchez. The blond-haired, tattooed, eclectic and charismatic Luciano took the time to talk to INBrooklyn about how he developed his culinary skills, appearing on season eight of “MasterChef,” his love for the arts, his childhood and his favorite things about Brooklyn. INBrooklyn: Dino, you grew up in Brooklyn — Bensonhurst to be exact. How has your upbringing in the borough influenced your life? Dino Angelo Luciano: I was actually born in California but when I was 1 year old I got shipped off to my uncle’s house in Brooklyn. I spent most of my life there. INB: You now live in Murrieta, California. Luciano: Yes, I’m in Murrieta for the time being. My folks bought a house out here in 2011 and I got a little house in front of theirs, so this is like my little in-between spot. I’m not sure exactly where I want to go next. INB: Do you miss Brooklyn? Luciano: Oh yeah, I mean, I miss New York. Come on, like the energy over there. Most people out here in California are sleeping. But I appreciate how lax people are and it has taught me to take things slower. I’ve kind of got that New York state of mind. It’s stuck in me forever. INB: So, it’s the energy of New York City that you miss the most. Luciano: Oh no, if I had to be honest I would say the food. I mean, in what other city can you order Chinese food to your thirdstory Brooklyn apartment at two in the morning? I mean, everything over here closes at like 10 or 11 o’clock. I mean, you can find better pizza at a gas station in Brooklyn than over here in an Italian restaurant [laughs]. I would take a week-old pizza in the mail from Brooklyn than I would from over here. No offense to California, they have some good food out here, but as far as authentic, like your grandma’s homemade Italian food restaurants, they don’t have that here.
INB: Besides cooking you have many talents. You are a ballet dancer as well. Do you consider that your primary career? Luciano: Not so much a career as a fitness hobby. I used to ride the subway and see all these ballet girls in their outfits. I always thought it was cool and endearing. And I always wanted to do it, but I never did in New York. It was not until I got to California and ended up trying it out here. I took a couple of lessons from some friends and I realized that it put me in probably the best shape I’ve ever been in — constantly stretching, you get your blood flowing just from stretching alone. And the top physical condition you have to be in just to do that stuff. I mean it keeps me cooking and eating and having to try foods. It’s definitely the best workout to stay a skinny chef. INB: And how about your music and film work? Luciano: Since late elementary school, I took up the saxophone because I was really into jazz music growing up. I played the saxophone for eight years, all the way through high school. As I got older, I took piano in college and a little bit of guitar. I just love music. I love playing it. I love making it. As far as film work, I’ve always loved old films, Fellini films. I grew up on the “Godfather” movies. I love the beautiful visuals in film. Just looking at something even without words and just wanting to go to that place. When I was around 20 or 21 I started writing screenplays and trying to put all to paper and turn it into movies. I never really did too much with it until recently. I started going on this website called backstage.com and applying to independent films so I could help people out and one day put my film out there. I’m actually working on a cooking show
Luciano and teammate competing in the “MasterChef” challenge.
Luciano indulging in his passion for cooking on “MasterChef.” Luciano: My mother watched a lot of cooking shows. I didn’t watch a lot of TV. I had seen the show a few times. I really didn’t know what to expect, really, which was the fun part about it. “MasterChef” popped up on the same website that I was getting all those independent film gigs. So I applied on a whim, not knowing how serious it could be, because my mother loves the show and I always wanted to be on TV so I could say “hi” to my Ma. So I applied to it, kept getting further in. I went through the whole process, did all the paperwork and thought that I might actually have a shot to being on this show. I just wanted to do that for my Ma and I ended up on the show and it all worked out. INB: What is Gordon Ramsey really like? Were you ever intimidated to be working with such a legendary chef? Luciano: He’s intense for sure. I had seen the show and I was super intimidated and worried, but the more I got to know him, the more I got to see him in action, I realized that he is probably one of the most professional people I have ever seen. And he’s definitely a business icon that we should all look up to. He’s always on the go and he’s always hustling himself out there.
INB: Tell me about how you developed your love for cooking. Luciano: My family pretty much taught me how to cook. It was my grandmother that showed me everything I knew since I was about 10 years old. I spent a lot of time at home having to be the family chef while the other boys were outside playing stickball.
with my director right now who I met before “MasterChef.” My vision is to do a cooking show where we show recipes, a mix between a cooking show and a movie, and make it look like an independent film so that you get character development and show how people are inspired to make food rather than just having them in the kitchen showing you how to make stuff.
INB: And your grandmother is Italian. Luciano: She is. We’re all Sicilian on that side.
INB: What motivated you to audition for “MasterChef”?
INB: What have you learned from Ramsey and your experience on the show? Luciano: Well, the truth about Ramsey is that everyone thinks he’s super intimidating. And he is super intimidating for sure, but what they don’t know is that he actually cares about us as people and as chefs, which is why he’s so hard on us. He doesn’t want us putting out bad products, he wants us to be top-quality, five-star restaurant worthy. He doesn’t want us to look stupid or be weak. He wants us to bring out our inner
Photos courtesy of “MasterChef”
strength. And that’s why he’s so hard on us. He inspires us to want to push ourselves to that next level. INB: Now, I have to ask you some Brooklyn questions. What is your favorite restaurant in Brooklyn? Luciano: My favorite restaurant growing up, because of family nostalgia, would probably be Patsy’s [450 Dean St.]. I love Patsy’s. There’s a lot of memories there. When I walk in there, my heart fills up. Even if I go there alone just to pick something up, I feel like my family is there with me. We’ve been there so many times I know the whole restaurant. I could walk around there with my eyes shut. I also love Gino’s in Bay Ridge. Those are my spots. INB: Where are some of your favorite places to go in Brooklyn? Luciano: I didn’t go out too much to be honest. I had my days going out to clubs but I spent most of my time with my family. We always loved food and we always cooked. We were a family of chefs so we never really had to go out. INB: What is your favorite memory of growing up in Bensonhurst? Luciano: A favorite memory would be in summertime when we would pop out the fire hydrant caps and just run around in a bathing suit. I definitely want to be back in Brooklyn. I miss it. Probably for the next few months I’m going to do some traveling and go see a couple of other contestants on the show. Just kind of master my craft and figure out some new food. Something to bring back home. INB: Thank you, Dino. Any final thoughts? Luciano: I definitely do want to start a lot of foundations. The homeless epidemic is terrible, especially in New York. There’s a lot of things that need to be changed. And I want to be a spokesperson for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It’s a mental disability that I’ve been suffering from since I was 7 years old. It’s been a giant problem in my life and my family went through a lot of hardships because of it. So, I want to put out the message that, even with OCD or any mental disability, you can go out there and do whatever you want. You can still live your dreams. You can make your dreams happen!
6INB • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • Week of July 13-19, 2017
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By Lisa Foodgirl
Special to INBrooklyn
Brazen Head Buzzing On Busy Atlantic Ave.
THE BRAZEN HEAD sits on the busy block of Atlantic Avenue between Court Street and Boerum Place. Cars pass by, the normal honking and rush of New York City traffic proceeds. Outside the entrance to The Brazen Head there is a chalkboard out on the sidewalk. Perhaps it shows a quote from Benjamin Franklin: “In wine there is wisdom, in beer is freedom, in water there is bacteria.” Inside is a bar, always full of lively people from noon until 4 a.m. Neon signs hang from the front windows, but in the back of the bar, plants hang in the windows that look out to the alcove in the back, a closed outdoor space with tall cocktail tables where smokers may take refuge with their cocktails, beer and wine. Although there are multiple partners that own The Brazen Head, under the name Trolley Dodger LLC, the hands-on managers are LOU SONES and SASHA KOTLYAR. Kotlyar is originally from Kiev, Ukraine and came to America with her family when she was 5 years old. She’s earned an undergraduate degree in biology and a minor in chemistry and then earned an MBA in finance, but had second thoughts about sitting behind a desk. “It’s not who I am, and it’s not what I want to do, [sit behind a desk]” Kotlyar tells me. “My mom was a waitress and my dad got a bartending job in a hotel … and I used to play the piano and make tips when I was a kid … so when [my parents] started booing me [for working in the industry again], I was like, ‘You guys trained me! I started doing this when I was 5!’” Along with Kotlyar bringing her personality and hard work to The Brazen Head, Sones also puts hard work into running the bar. Sones is an actor, and has made multiple appearances on “Law & Order.” Those that work with him note that his age Mixed Mediterranean pittshows no boundary for his ener- ed olives gy and the things that he Photo courtesy of The Brazen Head accomplishes in one day. MADDIE AUSTIN tends the bar in the mid-afternoon, which has already become lively as the clock ticks closer to evening. Even though Maddie admits that she spends a lot of time working, she also custom-paints sneakers for her clients that bring her white shoes. “There is a really specific paint you have to get; you have to take the factory finish off and then put a new over coat on it,” she tells me. Along with her artsy projects, she notes that she played the violin for 17 years when she was younger and originally is from Minneapolis, Minnesota. She went to Arizona State University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in cultural anthropology with a minor in religious studies. “It didn’t go anywhere [her school studies]; I’m cool with it, though,” she says. “I’d rather be socializing and be around people than still studying.” Tying all of these things together is the name The Brazen Head, which comes from the oldest bar in western civilization, established in Dublin, Ireland in 1198, which still exists and is open for business. Inside the Atlantic Avenue bar, which is discretely in the shape of a right triangle with an angled wall, is a photograph showing Ebbets Field. The black-and-white picture of Ebbets Field might seem to be out of place, unless one were to know that the company that owns The Brazen Head is called Trolley Dodgers LLC. The angled wall has its own history. It is one of the last remnants of Red Hook Lane, a now extinct roadway that ran from Red Hook to Fulton Street. In an earlier time, the Red Hook Trolleys would pass by on the exterior of that very same angled wall. And, of course, Brooklyn was once known for residents dodging the streetcar network, which is why the Major League Baseball team was given the name “Dodgers.” One item that is becoming increasingly more commonplace in today’s food is pita bread, used for sandwiches, dipped in hummus and much more. The commonality of pita bread present in American society is thanks in part to DAMASCUS BAKERY, home to the original pita in America. Continued on page 8INB Week of July 13-19, 2017 • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • 7INB
FACES B T F D EHIND
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By Lisa Foodgirl
Special to INBrooklyn
Continued from page 7INB Damascus Bakery was started in Brooklyn, in the heart of the Middle Eastern community, by EDWARD and DAVID MAFOUD’S maternal grandfather and has been serving their customers with fresh bread for 84 years. Now there are several Damascus bakeries all around New York City. The bakery is a common source for restaurants all around New York City when they need pita bread or lavash for their menus. Opened in 1930, Ed and Dave’s grandfather decided to call the bakery Damascus after his childhood home in Syria. He lived above the bakery and became the neighborhood bread-maker until 1969 when he decided to take his Syrian bread mainstream in America. These types of breads include panini, pitas, roll-ups and lavash wraps. “For us, bread is a labor of love and food is very emotional,” they said. “We work healthy, bake healthy and grow healthy.” At Chadwick’s Restaurant, the interior resembles an East Coast steakhouse, with its oak bar, high ceilings, burgundy banquettes and fireplace. Known for its steaks, chops, pasta and seafood, Executive Chef ZACK STAPELMAN has breathed new life into its menu. Stapleman praises owners STEVEN OLIVER and GERRY MORRIS for making him feel welcome and giving him the opportunity to be creative in the kitchen. “They’ve allowed me to expand the flavor profiles of the typical dishes we serve here. And so far, the menu has received a warm response from our regulars and new customers alike.”
Chadwick’s Executive Chef ZACK STAPLEMAN (left) and co-owner GERRY MORRIS. INBrooklyn photo by John Alexander
8INB • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • Week of July 13-19, 2017
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MYBROOKLYNCALENDAR.COM Calendar Events July 13-19 Arts Rob Benavides and Jackie Dunn Smith New works by artists Jackie Dunn Smith and Rob Benavides. When: Wednesday through Monday, through 12-8 p.m. Where: Williamsburg/Eight Swords Art Gallery (115 Grand St.)
selves to be carried away — if even for a moment — in thoughts and lands so strange, yet so familiar, so close to home. When: Daily, through July 31, 2017 Where: DUMBO/Manhattan Bridge (Adams Street, Plymouth Street and Anchorage Place) Truman Capote’s Brooklyn: The Lost Photographs of David Attie In the spring of 1958, a young photographer named David Attie was led through the streets of Brooklyn Heights and to the Brooklyn waterfront by an unexpected guide: 33-year-old Truman Capote. The images Attie took that day were to illustrate Capote’s essay for Holiday magazine about his life in Brooklyn. Decades later, these largely unseen photographs are being exhibited for the first time.
When: Wednesday through Sunday, through July 31, 12-5 p.m. Where: Brooklyn Heights/Brooklyn Historical Society (128 Pierrepont St.) Bridges This solo exhibition of work by noted Brooklyn-based artist Sam Messer reveals the breadth of Messer’s body of work and includes large-scale paintings of New York City’s iconic bridges, plus portrait drawings and animated videos from Messer’s “Years of the Cock,” composed of one video made daily in response to President Donald Trump’s first 100 days in office. While the “Years of the Cock” videos provide trenchant commentary on politics of the moment, for Messer, the bridges have both physical and metaphorical appeal. Continued on page 10INB
Coney Island Mermaids, 1996-2017 This show represents more than 20 years of work by New York native photographer Luke Ratray. Following the successful debut presentation in 2016 at Urban Folk Art Gallery, Sunny’s Bar is presenting the latest batch of images in this ongoing series. When: Daily, through July 22 Where: Red Hook/Sunny’s Bar (253 Conover St.) Kit & Caboodle Kit & Caboodle. Bric a Brac. Salmagundi. Potpourri. Not from Your Closet. Summer Group exhibitions are a good time to pull together new works, old classics and a variety of pieces by a selection of artists. Works ranging from Alfred Leslie's extraordinary 1984 watercolor from “100 Views Along the Road” to Baron Von Fancy’s sign-painted slogans bang against each other, creating refreshing (no pun, Neil Winokur) juxtapositions. When: Tuesday through Saturday, through July 28, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Where: DUMBO/Janet Borden, Inc. (91 Water St.) Enterprising Machines: Recent Drawings by Jessica Gondek “Enterprising Machines” features works inspired by machine aesthetics that reference common tools and domestic utilitarian objects. The digitally printed elements Gondek composes recall blueprints or plans, and create a foundation for the modification of the context of these implements. When: Wednesday through Sunday, through July 30, 12-6 p.m. Where: DUMBO/A.I.R Gallery (155 Plymouth St.) Forged Worlds This outdoor photography exhibition showcases work by seven artists whose photographic practices revolve around the physical construction of fictional landscapes. Installed on a fence beneath the Manhattan Bridge, this photo installation invites viewers to take a closer look and perhaps allow them-
Week of July 13-19, 2017 • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • 9INB
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MYBROOKLYNCALENDAR.COM Week of July 13-19, 2017 ARIES — Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, allow time for others to process a big announcement you recently made. Patience is something you will need this week. Viewing things from others’ points of view will help. TAURUS — Apr 21/May 21 Very little that is holding you back this week, Taurus. You realize you can do anything that you set your mind to. Use this power wisely in the next few days. GEMINI — May 22/Jun 21 It’s the little things that make you happy this week, Gemini. Taking time to laugh with friends or enjoying a quiet dinner with family is just the thing to elicit a smile. CANCER — Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, lately life has been busier than ever before, but you can handle it. Go with the flow for a little while and wait for things to settle down. LEO — Jul 23/Aug 23 You never need to remember all of the details when you speak the truth, Leo. Be as forthcoming as possible this week, and remember the truth shall set you free. VIRGO — Aug 24/Sept 22 Avoid using back channels to communicate, Virgo. If you want something to go a particular way, be straightforward with those who might be affected. LIBRA — Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, do not delegate to others what you can clearly do yourself. Now is not the time to take shortcuts. Everything needs your stamp of approval. SCORPIO — Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, being the go-to person can sometimes be tiring. Many people lean on you for advice or to get things done. Consider it an honor. SAGITTARIUS — Nov 23/Dec 21 Handle your to-do list one task at a time, Sagittarius. This way you will not become overwhelmed by everything on it. Take frequent breaks if the workload gets to be too much. CAPRICORN — Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, if it has been some time since you spoke to someone after a quarrel, don’t allow too much time to pass before extending an olive branch. Take the initiative. AQUARIUS — Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, you have been making many healthy changes as of late and itÕs important to keep that momentum going. Some hurdles will be tougher than others, but stick with it. PISCES — Feb 19/Mar 20 You have to walk before you can run, Pisces. Do not let the slower pace get you down. You will reach the finish line soon enough.
Continued from page 9INB When: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., and Sunday, 12-6 p.m., through Aug. 6, Where: Fort Greene/BRIC House (647 Fulton St.) Next Stop: Second Avenue Subway Tracing nearly 100 years of history, the New York Transit Museum’s newest exhibit explores how the Second Avenue line fits into New York’s past, present and future transportation landscapes. When: Tuesday through Sunday, through Sept. 3, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Saturday and Sunday hours, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.) Where: Downtown Brooklyn/New York Transit Museum (Corner of Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street) Shifting Perspectives: Photographs of Brooklyn’s Waterfront This exhibition features the work of two dozen photographers whose images crisscross the Brooklyn shoreline, from Newtown Creek to Jamaica Bay. By picturing decades of Brooklyn’s coastal scenery, including its changing industrial and postindustrial environment, the exhibition presents dramatic panoramic vistas, spectacular aerial views, glimpses of popular recreational attractions, particularly in nearby Brooklyn Bridge Park and at Coney Island, and other scenes, including those impacted by natural or manmade forces, as well as by gentrification. When: Wednesday through Sunday, through Sept. 10, 12-5 p.m. Where: Brooklyn Heights/Brooklyn Historical Society (55 Water St.) We Wanted a Revolution: Black Radical Women, 1965–85 Presenting a diverse group of artists and activists who lived and worked at the intersections of avant-garde art worlds, radical political movements and profound social change, this exhibition features a wide array of work, including conceptual, performance, film and video art, as well as photography, painting, sculpture and printmaking. When: Wednesday through Sunday, through Sept. 17 Where: Prospect Heights/Brooklyn Museum (200 Eastern Parkway) NY Harbor Scenes Muralist and plein air painter Bill Mensching's oil paintings of high surf, crashing waves and stately vessels will grace the barge's walls When: Thursday, 4-8 p.m., and Saturday, 1-5 p.m., through Oct. 28 When: Red Hook/Waterfront Museum (290 Conover St.)
The PowerHouse Arena will host a Book Launch for Lint Boy by Aileen Leijten. Image courtesy of Powerhouse Arena
Books & Readings
Book Launch: Lint Boy by Aileen Leijten Lint Boy and Lint Bear live in their cozy dryer home, carefree and happy — until the day Lint Bear is snatched away by a cruel woman with a vendetta against dolls. Can Lint Boy unite a group of lost dolls to vanquish the villain and save his brother? Join Aileen Leijten for a reading to find out. When: Saturday, July 8, 4 p.m. Where: DUMBO/PowerHouse Arena (28 Adams St.) Book Talk — Chokehold: Policing Black Men July 17, 2017 marks three years since Eric Garner was killed in a taped altercation with the NYPD that stunned the nation. To mark this somber occasion, Georgetown University Law Center professor and former federal prosecutor Paul Butler presents his latest work, an uncompromising view on institutionalized racial discrimination in our criminal justice system. When: Thursday, July 13, 6:30-8 p.m. Where: Brooklyn Heights/Brooklyn Historical Society (128 Pierrepont St.) Summer Reading Storytime Join the Brooklyn Public Library for a rollicking good time listening to stories, singing songs and enjoying the breeze from the water. The Brooklyn Heights children’s librarian will read stories from the library’s summer reading list, plus a whole lot more When: Wednesday, July 12, 11 a.m. Where: Brooklyn Bridge Park/Pier 3
Educational Journey to the Stars On Thursday nights in July and August, members of the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York will set up highpowered telescopes for stargazing sessions that are free and open to the public. Weather permitting. When: Thursday, July 13, 8 p.m. Where: Brooklyn Bridge Park/Harbor View Lawn NYTM Train Operators Workshop Drop by the computer lab to take control of a New York City Subway car and operate it over virtual miles of track, using some incredibly realistic software. When: Saturday, July 14 and Sunday, July 15, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Where: Downtown Brooklyn/New York Transit Museum (Corner of Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street) Continued on page 11INB
10INB • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • Week of July 13-19, 2017
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Death & Dharma Led by teachers from the BZC, each session will begin indoors with an insightful discussion that highlights Buddhist teachings on life and death. Afterward, just around sunset, attendees will gather for an outdoor meditation (weather permitting) within Green-Wood Cemetery's tranquil greenspace. When: Tuesday, July 18, 7-8:30 p.m. Where: Greenwood/Green-Wood Cemetery (500 25th St.)
Family Fun Nature at Night — Family Edition Take an evening stroll with the Prospect Park Alliance during this special family edition of the popular Nature at Night program. This twohour program includes a kid-friendly nighttime nature walk with expert naturalists and a behind-the-scenes tour of the Audubon
Center. This is an all-ages event. When: Thursday, July 13, 6-8 p.m. Where: Prospect Park Family Discovery Weekends Hands-on stations throughout the garden’s meadow, woodland and marsh habitats as well as the vegetable garden encourage families to explore nature together. When: Saturday, July 15, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Where: Crown Heights/Brooklyn Botanic Garden (990 Washington Ave.) Sing-Along Shabbat Experience Shabbat morning with singing, guitar and musical prayer. Families with 0-5-yearolds, plus siblings and caregivers, participate in a playful setting and form friendships. Followed by challah and grape juice with the Bay Ridge Jewish Center community. When: Saturday, July 15, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Where: Bay Ridge/Bay Ridge Jewish Center (405 81st St.) BK Block Parties — Rolie Polie Guacamole Monthly BK Block Parties kick off with a familyfriendly concert, giveaways, balloon animals and face painting for the kids. When: Saturday, July 15, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Where: Downtown Brooklyn/Albee Square (Fulton and Bond St.) FAD Market Summer: The Invisible Dog Discover new creative makers and handcrafted goods at FAD Market — a roving fashion, art and design pop-up marketplace that moves seasonally to unique venues in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn. More than 50 makers will showcase
Image courtesy of Green-Wood Cemetery
Continued from page 10INB The New Crown Heights? A Neighborhood and Its Future What historical connections exist between the Crown Heights of today and of its past? What is the future of Crown Heights? This conversation, moderated by MSNBC host and author Joy-Ann Reid, will feature people living and working in Crown Heights and their varied views on neighborhood change and transformation. When: Tuesday, July 18, 6:30-8 p.m. Where: Brooklyn Heights/Brooklyn Historical Society (128 Pierrepont St.)
Green-Wood Cemetery presents “Death & Dharma” on Tuesday, July 18. handcrafted art, jewelry, apparel, bath and body care, tableware and home furnishings. When: Saturday, July 15, and Sunday, July 16, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Where: DUMBO/The Invisible Dog Art Center (51 Bergen St.)
Film Movies with a View — Pariah The evening begins with DJ Reborn (In The
Pocket/Stay Gold) and the short film “Bayard & Me,” directed by Matt Wolf and curated by BAMcinématek. Music starts at 6 p.m. and the movie begins at sundown. Food and drinks from DeKalb Market Hall are available all night long. When: Thursday, July 13, 6 p.m. Where: Brooklyn Bridge Park/Harbor View Lawn Rooftop Films: The Strange Ones Mysterious events surround two travelers making their way across a remote American landscape. Doors open at 8 p.m. and live music Continued on page 12INB
Week of July 13-19, 2017 • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • 11INB
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MYBROOKLYNCALENDAR.COM Continued from page 11INB begins at 8:30 p.m. Film begins at 9 p.m. with a Q&A with filmmakers Lauren Wolkstein and Christopher Radcliffe at 10:30 p.m. After-party starts at 11 p.m. When: Friday, July 14, 8 p.m. Where: Gowanus/The Old American Can Factory (232 Third St.)
views of the New York City skyline and will be led by everyone's favorite yoga instructor, Kristin Calabria. Bring your own yoga mat and towel. When: Sunday, July 16, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Where: Greenpoint/Northern Territory (12 Franklin St.) NYRR Brooklyn R-U-N 5K Come out for Monday Run Day — at night. Challenge your friends — runners and nonrunners alike — to join you for 3.1 miles in Prospect Park. Afterward, head out of the park to continue your evening and enjoy discounted refreshments with your fellow runners at a nearby establishment, a twist to your usual weeknight happy hour. When: Monday, July 17, 6:45 p.m. Where: Prospect Park
Food & Drink Happy Hours @ MetroTech Featuring double dutch classes in July and cornhole competitions in August. DJs will set the soundtrack for the evenings. Get a glass of wine or a beer outdoors at La Defense and Luciano's and enjoy the summer evenings in MetroTech. When: Thursdays, 5-7 p.m. Where: MetroTech/MetroTech Commons Smorgasburg Prospect Park More than 100 local and regional food purveyors will gather on Breeze Hill to offer a range of cuisines. When: Sunday, July 16, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Where: Prospect Park
Health Body Combat Enjoy martial arts-inspired cardio. The instructor will lead the class through a workout that combines upper and lower body moves using power training, muay thai and karate.
Steep Canyon Rangers will perform at Brooklyn Bowl on Thursday, July 13.
Image courtesy of Brooklyn Bowl
When: Friday, July 14, 7 p.m. Where: Brooklyn Bridge Park/Pier 6 Salsa Dance/Bachata Dance Classes Free classes. No partner or experience needed. All are welcome.
When: Saturday, July 15, 7 p.m. Where: Park Slope/Dance Fever Studio (159 20th St.) Rooftop Yoga This one-hour class will overlook breathtaking
Broadway Dance Set to swinging show tunes, this class is appropriate for anyone who wants a safe, effective and fun workout. Sneakers are a must. A few notes: Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. before each class; Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; All participants must sign a waiver each morning. When: Monday, July 17, 10 a.m. Where: Brooklyn Bridge Park/Pier 2 Basketball Clinics Improve basic basketball skills with the Big and Little Skills Academy (BALSA) on Pier 2. Each clinic will include either yoga to enhance flexibility or flag football for agility training. When: Tuesday, July 18, 4 p.m. Where: Brooklyn Bridge Park/Pier 2 Continued on page 13INB
12INB • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • Week of July 13-19, 2017
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
HIGHLIGHTS FROM
MYBROOKLYNCALENDAR.COM Continued from page 12INB Bootcamp Wednesdays Get pumped up for the day with a bootcamp workout. These one-hour classes will focus on building strength, endurance and stability. Classes will take place in front of 5 MetroTech. All necessary exercise equipment supplied. When: Wednesday, July 19, 7-8 a.m. Where: Metrotech/MetroTech Commons
Nightlife
Tinder Live with Lane Moore Lane Moore will be joined by a guest panel of David Cross and Ashley Nicole Back. “Tinder Live” is a totally improvised, anything-can-happen, interactive comedy showstopper with helpful and oftentimes ridiculous Tinder tips, tricks, real-time swiping and messaging (and sometimes even real-time phone calls with Tinder matches). When: Saturday, July 15, 8 p.m. Where: Williamsburg/Littlefield (622 Degraw St.)
Live at the Archway An annual series of free performances and events taking place at the unique setting of the Manhattan Bridge in DUMBO, reflecting the neighborhood’s diversity and commitment to the arts and showcasing a broad variety of musical genres and dance programming. This week’s performance is the Brown Rice Family with a DJ set with DJ Jigüe and The Artist Interactive: Jamie Walker. When: Thursday, July 13, 6 p.m. Where: DUMBO/The Archway (Water Street and Anchorage Place) Steep Canyon Rangers The Rangers are out on the road in support of their album “RADIO.” The widely acclaimed album brilliantly consolidates the band’s many strengths with a program marked by vivid original songs, dynamic instrumental virtuosity and soulful, evocative vocals. When: Thursday, July 13, 8 p.m. Where: Williamsburg/Brooklyn Bowl (61 Wythe Ave.) The Brontës: A Musical “The Brontës,” an original musical developed by Theater in Asylum, was originally conceived in 2014. Based on extensive research and workshopped for three years, the musical explores the struggles of the Brontës — Charlotte, Emily, Anne and their brother Branwell — to live authentically as artists in 19th century England. When: Sundays, through July 23, 8-10 p.m. Where: Park Slope/Old Stone House (336 Third St.)
Image courtesy of Old Stone House
Lola Star's Dreamland Roller Disco The Lefrak Center at Lakeside and Lola Star will host themed DJ Disco Dancing. Each Friday night showcases a new theme, from ’70s glitter to ’80s glam, as well as dazzling performers, kitschy contests, giveaways and more. When: Friday, July 14, 7:30-10:30 p.m. Where: Prospect Park/Dreamland Roller Disco at Lakeside (171 East Drive)
Theatre & Music
The Old Stone House presents “The Brontes: A Musical” through July 23.
Week of July 13-19, 2017 • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • 13INB
14INB • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • Week of July 13-19, 2017
Week of July 13-19, 2017 • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • 15INB
--- CROSSWORD ---
(See answers on page 19.)
HOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every colmn, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once. Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.
See answers on page 19. 16INB • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • Week of July 13-19, 2017
Week of July 13-19, 2017 • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • 17INB
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JOIN BROOKLYN’S BEST GUIDE TO GOODS AND SERVICES. Week of July 13-19, 2017 • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • 19 B
20 B • INBROOKLYN — A Special Section of Brooklyn Daily Eagle/Brooklyn Eagle/Heights Press/Brooklyn Record/Bay Ridge Eagle/Greenpoint Gazette • Week of July 13-19, 2017
From left: NYC Councilmember for 33rd District Stephen Levin; Executive Director of Plymouth Church John Scibilia; NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver; Municipal Arts Society of NY President Elizabeth Goldstein; Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams; NYC Parks Director for Arts and Antiquities Jonathan Kuhn; and Brooklyn Parks Commissioner Marty Maher. Eagle photos by Andy Katz Continued from page 4 His funeral in 1887 drew thousands of mourners who lined the streets leading to Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Cemetery. It should come as no surprise that statues and memorials to Beecher abound in Brooklyn. The best known — and the reason for the day’s gathering — is John Quincy Adams Ward’s and Richard Morris Hunt’s Henry Ward Beecher Monument in Columbus Park. Dedicated in 1891, the monument is one of Brooklyn’s best-known tributes to the man whose sermons drew thousands of listeners from all over the northeast and who helped to galvanize public opinion against slavery. “We must become what this statue represents,” said Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams. “This statue is renewed as we are renewed!” The statue’s restoration was undertaken by Brooklyn-based Wilson Conservation, under the oversight of the NYC Parks Department, the Conservation Advisory Group of the NYC Public Design Commission, and, of course, the Adopt-aMonument program of the Municipal Art Society of New York City (MASNYC). Funds were supplied by a grant from the Paul and Klara Porzelt Foundation, which has also funded the restoration of other public works such as the Farragut monument in Madison Square Park and Worth monument in City Hall Park. “We stand here at the center of public life in Brooklyn,” NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver told the audience prior to the unveiling. “Occasions such as this help us to reinvigorate what our heroes stood for.” At that point, knots were loosened, lines released and the golden cloth slid languidly away from the restored statue. Once more, Reverend Beecher stood overlooking Cadman Plaza, his gaze directed at the Borough Hall of his beloved adopted home. “For the first time in generations, people will see the statue as John Quincy Adams Ward and Richard Hunt intended,” MASNYC President Elizabeth Goldstein declared. After a rendition of “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” by the Plymouth Church Choir, guests were invited to a reception at Plymouth Church itself. The final speaker of the day, Beecher biographer and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Debby Applegate, spoke about the minister’s life: “He was a complicated man,” she recounted, “a man of great passion and contradictions.” In closing, she cited another famous Brooklyn son — Walt Whitman: “‘Do I contradict myself? Very well, then I contradict myself, I am large, I contain multitudes.’”
Municipal Arts Society of New York President Elizabeth Goldstein (left) with Municipal Arts Society Adopt-aMonument Director Phyllis Samitz Cohen in the garden of Plymouth Church of the Pilgrims.
Author Frank Decker (left) describes the history of Plymouth Church as a key hub for the Underground Railroad in the years leading up to the Civil War.
The Plymouth Church of the Pilgrims Choir performs under the direction of Bruce Oelschlager. Thursday, July 13, 2017 • Brooklyn Eagle • 5
Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot-Dog Eating Contest Contenders Face Off in Borough Hall
Defending Champs Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo Join Competitors in Pre-Contest Weigh-in By Andy Katz
Special to Brooklyn Eagle
The unmistakable odor of street-level charcuterie filled Borough Hall on the morning of July 3 as crews from Nathan’s Famous shuttled platters of cooked hot dogs and steam-heated buns into the building’s main reception area. A long table covered in Nathan’s Famous’ yellow and blue tablecloth held familiar icons — bun-shaped paper hats, yellow mustard championship belts and, of course, hot dogs…lots of them. While registered Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating contestants — recognizable in white T-shirts with red Nathan’s Famous lettering on the front — chatted with supporters and members of the press, Major League Eating founder and President George Shea bustled about wearing his trademark jazz-age straw boater hat and cheerful energy, ensuring that everything was in place for the now traditional pre-gorge weigh-in. As the official countdown to the event on Nathan’s Famous website reached 24 hours, members of the press assembled in front of the borough president’s lectern, alongside which had been set a physician’s scale. Shea approached the microphone, with Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams standing respectfully back and to one side. It was time. “It is said that competitive eating is the battleground on which God and Lucifer wage war for men’s souls — and they are right, my friends!” George Shea declared, in that splendid, exuberant hyperbole he’s perfected over the years. Prime contenders Joey Chestnut, Matt Stonie, Miki Sudo and Michelle Lesco took turns on the scale. Their weights were care-
6 • Brooklyn Eagle • Thursday, July 13, 2017
fully measured, announced and recorded. After the weigh-ins, each set of rivals engaged in a stare-off lasting several minutes.
Chestnut and Stonie quickly devolved into giggles, while Sudo and Lesco wound up stuffing each other’s mouths with hot dogs like aggressive newlyweds wielding slices of a wedding cake.
“This year, Joey’s going to eat 70-plus,” Shea predicted. “Matt’s going to do about 60-plus.” “Yeah,” Stonie nodded, when asked about Shea’s prediction that at-best he’d be looking for second place. “This is definitely Joey’s year. I feel OK and everything, but I’m not getting to 70.” “I never underestimate Matt,” Chestnut said, looking surprised to hear himself essentially declared a shoo-in. “I don’t take anything for granted because I know what he’s capable of.” At the event on July 4, Chestnut captured his 10th Mustard Belt by eating an event-record 72 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes. Stonie finished third with 48 hot dogs and buns, while Carmen Cicotti nabbed the second-place spot eating 62 franks and buns. “You never know,” Lesco said when asked how she thought her chances stacked up against defending three-time Women’s Champion Miki Sudo. Although she placed third in last year’s eating competition, just behind runner-up Sonya Thomas, Lesco is also the first woman to beat Thomas, which she did in 2013. But, even so, her number of 27 hot dogs and buns in 2016 was still more than 10 back from Sudo’s 38.5. Sudo also set a personal record Tuesday by downing 41 hot dogs and buns to win her fourth consecutive title. Lesco finished second with 32.5 dogs and buns. For the full article and more photos, see brooklyneagle.com.
INSET: Defending Women’s Champion Miki Sudo (left) stares down challenger Michelle Lesco with Borough President Eric Adams in the background. Eagle photo by Andy Katz
‘Brooklyn Revealed’ Series Celebrates Summer Solstice on Kingsland Wildflowers
Alive Structures founder and CEO Marni Marjorelle describes her Wildflower Rooftop.
Eagle photos by Andy Katz
North Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce Holds Reception Atop Broadway Stages By Andy Katz
Special to Brooklyn Eagle
The North Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce marked 2017’s longest day on June 21 with the third event in its “Brooklyn Revealed” series, a reception held atop the Broadway Stages building where Marni Majorelle’s Kingsland Wildflowers Rooftop projects an eco-friendly compromise in the midst of one of Brooklyn’s most heavily industrialized neighborhoods. “What we are, in a nutshell,” explained Kingsland Wildflowers Project Coordinator for the NYC Audubon Society Niki Jackson, “is a habitat expansion program. The footprint of this building [Broadway Stages] is being replaced by the roof. We’re creating a habitat for birds, bats, wildflowers, butterflies, bees.” Proposed in 2015 by a partnership of Majorelle’s Alive Structures, Broadway Stages, the NYC Audubon Society, Newtown Creek Alliance and Trout in the Classroom, the rooftop habitat was funded in part by the Greenpoint Environmental Fund, with matching funds from other sources, not to mention interior work to shore up the roofs to bear the weight of the added, soil, stone and water by Broadway Stages owner Tony Argento. “Before this roof was done,” Dustin Partridge of NYC Audubon explained, “nothing was really using it. When you restore a roof like this water comes in, insects come in — food comes in — after that birds come in that are both breeding and migratory.” Willis Elkins, program manager of the Newtown Creek Alliance, spoke next, pointing out: “Our organization is interested in finding ways to revitalize the creek from multiple perspectives … We want to have environmental restoration and remediation of these areas, but there is also revitalization of the core business area around Newtown Creek. Pretty much all of the creek is zoned for industrial uses. We’re looking for ways to expand access to the creek that don’t dispose business and also allow for environmental restoration.”
INSET: Elaine Brodsky (left) and Paul Samulski of the North Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce.
Elkins went on to describe the well-known issue of heavy rainfall overwhelming the storm-drainage system, causing untreated sewage to flood into the creek. “The more green roofs you have like this — where you can absorb rainwater — benefits Newtown Creek, because it prevents rainwater from flowing into the storm drains and overflowing the creek.” “There are a lot of interesting things going on right now,” Alive Structures founder and CEO Marni Marjorelle told the audience. “And I just hope we can keep it going and make this a part of Greenpoint’s future … We’re creating jobs, we’re creating opportunities. We need everyone to be a part of it, because who knows if the EPA [Environmental Protection Agency] is even going to exist a year from now?” With that, North Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce President Paul Samulski announced, “Magic hour up on the roof — drinks allowed, but no food!” As the sun finally deigned to set behind the high rises of Upper Manhattan, amber light streaked across the Wildflower Rooftop. Nearby, the Newtown Creek Digester Eggs, clad in futuristic stainless steel and containing some of the nastiest stuff on earth, glowed in an array of colored lights that kept changing from blue to yellow to purple to green, and so on. A small spherical fountain with water running along the surface of its glass globe, illuminated from within, was the latest addition to the Wildflower Roof. Originally planned and funded for just under 22,000 square feet, the entire roof now covers more than 32,000 square feet and includes a lower level of the Broadway Stages complex. The largest roof section holds nearly 8 inches of soil, along with paving stones and a web-like irrigation system running underneath the dirt, according to Alive Structure’s Richard Jenkins. Shoring up the interior to bear the additional 50pounds-per-square-foot weight couldn’t have been easy or cheap for Broadway Stages. “More than $800,000,” Stages owner Tony Argento admitted as he stood in the rapidly fading sunlight, a fluted wine glass in one hand. “Worth your while?” he was asked. Argento paused before spreading his arms wide. “Just look around you,” he said.
Visitors in the fading light of the summer solstice atop the Broadway Stages Wildflower Rooftop.
From left: Jodi Taggart and Monica Martinez of Smile Farms with North Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce CEO Elaine Brodsky. Thursday, July 13, 2017 • Brooklyn Eagle • 7
Broken Windows Town Hall: Sunset Park Brings Officials, Activists and Community Together Activists Demand, Officials Promise Significant Reform in Prosecution of Low-Level Offenses By Andy Katz
Special to Brooklyn Eagle
The highly anticipated Broken Windows Town Hall: Sunset Park filled the eponymous park’s recreation hall with elected officials, candidates, community organizers and activists for a forum on June 30. The event, sponsored by El Grito de Sunset Park, turned in part contentious, optimistic and deeply emotional. “I’m here to listen,” Acting Brooklyn District Attorney and DA candidate Eric Gonzalez told an audience perspiring in rain forest-level humidity. Gonzalez joined NYC Public Advocate Letitia James at a table facing the assembly. Both officials got an earful. “They promise things, [but] once they’re in office…” insisted Hortencia Petersen, aunt of slain Pink Houses resident Akai Gurley, after being introduced by emcee Shannon Elayne. “Ken Thompson promised, but once he got in, the Gurley case was pushed to the back burner.” Once Petersen resumed her seat, Elayne took the microphone, confronting Gonzalez: “Do you think that [the DA’s Office recommendation of no jail time for Gurley’s killer, rookie NYPD Officer Peter Liang] was the right decision? Why? Are you going to hold cops accountable?” The acting DA gamely accepted the challenge: “We took the position that it wasn’t an accident, but a crime,” Gonzalez replied. “Ken Thompson obtained a Grand Jury indictment. Thompson recommended six months…” “We know what happened,” Elayne interrupted, to applause from the audience. “We were there. What is your feeling on the no-jailtime recommendation?” Meanwhile, Petersen left her chair and returned to stand in front of the forum next to Elayne, waiting for Gonzalez’s answer. “The recommendation was based on what Liang actually did,” Gonzalez started. “He killed someone. He killed someone!” Petersen interjected.
“The fact is that Liang should not be held responsible for the wrongdoings of other police officers,” Gonzalez persisted. “[DA Ken Thompson] made a difficult decision and I stand behind that decision.” Elayne added, in reference to Liang and his partner’s post-shooting actions, “They attempted to bypass police radios, using personal cellphones. People go to jail for that!” Peter Wong of Community Board 7 raised his hand and said, “The injustice is not in the lack of jail — [Liang] was poorly trained and supervised. Injustice is so many cases involving AfricanAmerican victims are never indicted!” With that, the meeting moved on to the broader topic of broken windows policing. “Broken windows means more than 2,000 stolen lives!” claimed an impassioned Nicholas Heyward Sr., who has championed for justice for his son, Nicholas Jr., since his shooting death by NYCHA police in 1994. “We don’t need it no more!” Despite a sympathetic tone throughout the evening, the meeting ended with broken windows very much still intact. Nevertheless, both the acting DA and public advocate expressed clear intentions to reform the status quo. “There are over 1.5 million summons warrants in New York City, a quarter of them are in Brooklyn,” said Gonzalez, referring to what, in some communities, are ubiquitous warrants that lurk in the background of people’s lives because of failure to respond to a citation for a minor offense. “There aren’t 400,000 criminals in Brooklyn. When we cancel these warrants; it will free up our manpower to deal with violent crime.” “I strongly believe we must close down Riker’s Island!” Letitia James said, to wild cheers and sustained applause. Both officials heard concerns from immigration and street vendor advocates about the federal government’s aggressive efforts to deport all undocumented persons along with any
Nicholas Heyward Sr. father of Nicholas Heyward Jr., who was killed in 1994 by NYCHA police, holds up list of young people slain at the hands of law enforcement. immigrant convicted of even a minor crime. Gonzalez pointed to his office’s new policy that requires prosecutors to consider the immigration consequences of specific charges, and to attempt to arrive at a disposition that is “immigration neutral.” Bail reform for low-level offenses was also promised. “Bail has disproportionate impact on poor and working people,” James declared. “I’m changing the process of bail,” Gonzalez insisted. “In time, we’re not going to be asking for bail on low-level [misdemeanor] cases. We’re going to be seeking supervised release more often.”
AT RIGHT: Josmar Trujillo, co-emcee of the Broken Windows forum, addresses the audience. INSET: Realtor Robert Hunter (left) with Acting Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez.
Hortencia Petersen (right), activist and aunt of slain Pink Houses resident Akai Gurley, addresses the forum as emcee Shannon Elayne listens. 8 • Brooklyn Eagle • Thursday, July 13, 2017
Rosetta Luzman holds up copy of El Diario while asking about the plight of immigrants amid more aggressive ICE sweeps. Eagle photos by Andy Katz