late october red hook star revue

SOUTH BROOKLYN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

The Red Hook StarªRevue

LATE OCT. 2014 FREE

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

Triangle smell addressedby Diehl Edwards

If someone had told me back in the sixties while living in Red Hook that the very person responsible for my crossing the highway to

avoid the dangerous Hamilton Ave footbridge to get to the other side of the BQE, was actually the same person who gave us all a once-in-a-lifetime and now defunct attraction of all attractions - The 1964 World’s Fair - I would have said, “Get outta here. No friggiin’ way!”

But no one ever did tell me that, not until a few years ago, anyway.

I was shocked that Robert Moses was the driving force behind the final stag-ing of the 1964 /1965 World’s Fair. It was Wikipedia who outlined the whole saga for me and provided all the horrid details of Robert Moses’ hand in push-ing for the event, despite the Bureau of International Exposition’s rejection of the proposal. The reason? Quite sim-ply, and quite fairly, I might add, sanc-tions were already given to Seattle for a 1962 World’s Fair, and their rules permitted only one country that place of honor in a ten-year period. That ap-parently did not sit well with Mr. Mo-

ses who, according to Wikipedia, was accustomed to having his own way in New York. (You think?) So, he turned to the media for alliance purposes, and pretty much pissed off the haughty BIE - headquartered in Paris - who, in turn, instructed their roughly 40 or so mem-bers at that time, not to participate in the Fair. Hence, the ensuing explana-tion as to why lesser profiled countries like Indonesia, Malaysia and Guinea were represented, and not countries like Australia, Germany or the United Kingdom, who were more the heavy-weights in the 1939 Fair.

It was also a crucial reason why the em-phasis on American corporations and industry took center stage as well. In the end, rising above his opposition, Mr. Moses boasted quite confidently to the media following his progress, that he didn’t need the BIE sanctions, he had Mi-chelangelo and Walt Disney as the stars of his Fair. And while he didn’t achieve the financial success he had hoped for, to his credit, Michelangelo’s, The Pieta, was definitely his crown jewel. It was the most sought after and attended pavilion during its two-year exhibition life.

Red Hook and the 1964 World’s Fairby Mary Ann Pietanza

Anyone who has been down-wind of 39 Coffey Street has noticed the smell of burning

tar. Not burning, actually but hot, heated to 500 degrees by Triangle G. C. Inc., a roofing company that moved here a few months before Sandy.

They get their roofing tar in from New Jersey and it sits in tanker trucks until taken to various job sites. It must be reheated to make it malleable enough to apply to roofs. However, the heat-ing process produces noxious fumes which have regularly spread through the neighborhood. People have complained of headaches and local resident and city councilman Carlos Menchaca has smelled the fumes.

Menchaca came personally to a meet-ing held September 20th at the Tri-anle offices. The meeting brought

together company principals with res-idents, the coun-cilmembers and some of his staff, as well as Karen Broughton and Napoleon Peters from Assembly-man Ortiz’s office.

While complaints have simmered for over a year, this meeting was held in response to re-cent altercation between residents and Triangle G. C. employees. An unnamed person approached the roof-ers to complain about visible smoke billowing from the heated tar trucks.

Councilman Menchaca arriving at the Triangle meeting. (Fiala photo)

(continued on page 4)

The PietaWhat could one say about its presence in the United States, right in our own backyards - Queens - sitting just acres away from the newly built Shea Stadi-um. Never before had such an iconic and sacred piece been transported from Vatican City across the ocean for an exhibit. And never before had we, Ital-ian Americans, been so proud to have it in our city. As the saint-worshiping, church-going religious lot that we were, it boosted our egos and polished our pride to a glimmering sheen. And among all the saints that were worshiped by Italians and Italian Americans, Red Hook’s Molese population took special favor with our adoration of the Blessed Virgin Mary whom we revered through our own patron saint, the Addoro-lata - the Mother of Jesus portrayed as our Lady of Sorrows. And to my fam-ily in particular, The Pieta, held even more symbolic significance because we bore the name - Pietanza. One couldn’t imagine the honor we felt knowing that our family name held such esteem in the world. When we were kids and had orig-inally asked our father what our name meant, he explained that it meant pity or sympathy. “Oh,” we thought, some-what disappointedly. Were it not for Michelangelo’s masterpiece, we would have otherwise felt a little, pardon the pun, pathetic that we bore such a de-pressing translation for a surname. But thankfully, our father explained on the

flip side, our name also held the culinary endearment for what Americans know as appetizers. That intrigued us more. How appealing to think that our name was associated with the stimulating ef-fects of one’s desire to enjoy an entire meal! Usually the best part, no? (Espe-cially at weddings.) And, yes, flirting did conjure up some “appetizing” pick-up lines. Later in our lives when we vis-ited Italy and dined in fancy trattorias, we would open menus to find our name proudly heading a list of mouth-water-

ing appetizers. More recently still, when my own daughter went to college and took Italian, her “professoressa” shared with her class that the word Pietanza, in Italy, was thought to be synonymous with The Last Supper. A fitting finale,

(continued on page 13)

The blue surrounding the Pieta influenced the author’s wedding motif.

The 1964-5 World’s fair offered a vision of the future. (photo by Dr. Alexander Fiala

Red Hook Star-Revue www.RedHookStar.com Late October2014

Happenings, etc.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24Big Apple Crunch gathers at green markets, senior homes, afterschool programs, businesses and schools will bite into an apple at exactly noon to create “the bite heard round the world.” For locations, visit www.bigapplecrunch.org

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25PS 15 Flea Market. Hopefully it won’t rain. See ad to the lower left for full information.Celebrate what summer has sown at the annual Red Hook Harvest Festi-val. Pumpkins, music food, games. Red Hook Community Farm, across from IKEA. FreeSouth Brooklyn Children’s Garden’s 3rd Annual Harvest Festival and Pie Contest begins at 9 am. Bakers are invited to bring pies. Live music, face painting, apple cider press, and more. 204 Columbia Street

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26Meet the artists of Kentler International Drawing Space at the closing of their current exhibition. Artists, Hedwig Brouckaert and Viviane Rom-baldi Seppey. 12-5 pm. 353 Van Brunt StreetMarch to protest the sale of LICH 1 p.m. It will start at Nevins Street and Atlantic Avenue and proceed down Atlantic Avenue to conclude at Hicks Street and Atlantic Avenue.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28Gowanus Community Advisory Committee public meeting. Your chance to hear for yourself details of ongoing Superfund activities. St. Mary Star of the Sea, 41 1st Street 6:30 - 9 pm. Portside Fundraiser at Hometown BBQ, 6:30 - 9:30, honoring Realty Col-lective, Schneider Electric and Peter Rothenberg. Smokey BBQ, Red Hook Ramblers. Red & white clothing Suggested. $100

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29New Dimensions will sing Doo Wop and Motown at Visitation Church at 7 pm. Admission is $20 or pay what you can. 98 Richards StreetA block party to commemorate the 2nd anniversary of Hurricane Sandy at Pioneer Works from 3-8 pm. 159 Pioneer Street

ONGOINGUp for Anything returns to Jalopy for a three night revival of their spring premiere. Show dates and times: Monday, October 27, 9 pm; Sunday, November 2, 3 and 8 pm; Monday, November 3, 8 pm. Tickets are $25 and available at Jalopy and Bait and Tackle. 315 Columbia StreetBoo at the Prospect Park Zoo Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, Octo-ber 26 11 am-4 pm. Activities include Halloween crafts, wildlife witch shows, a spooky barn, a scavenger hunt, and costumed characters. The Gowanus Canal Conservancy is offering street tree care and prun-ing techniques through November 10. Courses are 2 hours and $100. To register, visit www.treesny.org

The Red Hook StarªRevue

proudly introduces our new address:

481 VAN BRUNT STREET, BUILDING 8

www.Star-Revue.comFor Editorial, Advertising and Help Wanted Inquiries,

email [email protected], or call 718 624-5568

The Star-Revue is published by Kimberly G. Price & George Fiala

RELIGIOUS SERVICESCATHOLICVisitation Church98 Richards St, (718) 624-1572

Saint Paul and Saint Agnes Parish St. Paul’s Church - Rectory & Church Office 234 Congress Street (718) 624-3425 Hours: M - F 830am-12 St. Agnes Church Office 433 Sackett Street, 718-625-1717 Hours: M-F 1pm-430pm Email:[email protected] St. Agnes: Saturday 5pm Vigil Mass Sunday 9 am (English), 11:30am (Spanish) St. Paul’s: Saturday 5pm Vigil Mass Sunday 8 am & 9:30am (English); 11am (Spanish) Monday & Tuesday 8:30am (St. Paul’s) Wednesday & Thursday 8:30am (St. Agnes) Saturday 8am (St. Paul’s) http://stpaulstagnes.org/

Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary - Saint Stephen Roman Catholic Church125 Summit Street at Hicks Street [email protected] Saturday Vigil Mass 5:30pm Sunday Masses: 10am & 11:45am (Italian/English) Weekdays Masses: Tuesday Through Saturday 8:30am Confessions: Saturdays 4:45pm and by appointment. Baptisms: Every Third Sunday At 1pm. Please call the rectory one month before to make arrangements. Sick Calls: Please call the rectory to arrange for the sacrament of anointing whenever anyone is seriously ill. Marriages: Please call the rectory at least 6 months ahead for an appointment with a priest http://www.sacredhearts-ststephen.com

St. Paul’s Carroll Street 199 Carroll Street Parish Office: 718-625-4126 Sunday Mass at 10 am Weekday Morning Prayer - Mon.-Thurs. at 7:30 am Weekday masses as announced Holy Days as announced (please see the Calendar) Church open for prayer Tues. 6-8pm & Sat. 2-4pm http://stpaulscarrollst.weebly.com/

BaptistCalvary Baptist Church 773 Hicks St (718) 522-5159

JewishKane Street Synagogue 236 Kane Street, (near Tompkins Place) 718 875-1550 http://kanestreet.org/ Au-gust 29 - 30, Shabbat Shoftim Candle Lighting 7:14 PM Shabbat ends 8:17 PMFriday night services, 6:00 PM Shabbat morning services, 9:15 AM Sunday Morning Services 9:00 AM

Congregation B’nai Avraham/Chabad of Brooklyn Heights117 Remsen St., 718 596 4840 x18 www.bnaiavraham.com, www.heightschabad.com Morning Services: Sunday: 8:45am Monday - Friday: 7:45am Holidays (during the week): 8:45am Saturday: 9:45am Evening Services: Sunday: Shabbat candle lighting time Monday - Thursday: 9:00pm Friday: Winter: 5 minutes before Shabbat candle lighting time Summer: 7:30pm Saturday: Shabbat candle lighting time

If your religious institution isn’t listed here, let us know by emailing [email protected] Thanks!

Community Telephone Numbers:Red Hook Councilman Carlos Menchaca .............718 439-9012Red Hook Assemblyman Felix Ortiz ....................718-492-6334Red Hook State Senator Velmanette Montgomery .718-643-6140Gowanus Councilman Brad Lander .....................718 499-1090Park Slope Councilman Steve Levin .....................718 875-5200CB6 District Manager Craig Hammerman ...........718 643-3027

76th Police Precinct, 191 Union StreetMain phone ....................................................718-834-3211Community Affairs ...........................................718 834-3207Traffic Safety ....................................................718 834-3226

Eileen Dugan Senior Center, 380 Court Street .......718 596-1956Miccio Community Center, 110 East 9th Street ......718 243-1528 Red Hook East Dev. Office, 62 Mill St...................718 852-6771Red Hook West Dev. Office, 55 Dwight St. ...........718 522-3880

NYCHA Satellite Police Precinct, 80 Dwight StreetMain Phone ...................................................(718) 265-7300Community Affairs ..........................................(718) 265-7313Domestic Violence ..........................................(718) 265-7310Youth Officer ..................................................(718) 265-7314Auxiliary/Law Enforcement Coordinator .........(718) 265-7378Detective Squad ..............................................(718) 265-7327

PS 15 PTA PRESENTS

THE RED HOOK FALL FLEA

NEW DATE: Saturday Oct. 25th, 10am to 5pm

Located in the PS 15 School Yard on Van Brunt Street

between Wolcott & Sullivan

Red Hook’s local community school PS 15’s PTA will be hosting our annual flea market. Come and find that missing treasure, browse, chat, eat, and enjoy the many activities available.

Activities for the whole family throughout the day. Enjoy the popular PTA POT LUCK, Arts for the Kids,

Bounce House, School of Rock.

Red Hook Star-Revue www.star-revue.com Late October 2014,

At an October 8 meeting orga-nized by a recently formed Red Hook park advocacy group,

freshman City Councilman Carlos Menchaca sped the community toward a quick resolution of the Valentino Pier bathroom controversy.

Menchaca first became known to Red Hookers two years ago, when he was sent to the community by his then-employer, former Council speaker Christine Quinn. His job was to convey information to the Speaker and help co-ordinate emergency services to our rav-aged neighborhood.

He quickly became well known, es-pecially to residents of the Red Hook Houses during their month long struggle without heat, hot water and electricity. He was a presence at every community meeting and saw both the strong and weak points of the council. Identifying a huge gap, he personally put in long days and nights doing what he could to help the suffering.

Shortly thereafter, he decided to run for City Council himself. He put in the same long hours, and with help won a surprise victory in the September pri-mary. In the space of less than a year, he went from worker to manager.

There is no specific coursework to pre-pare for a City Council position. In the space of a few short months one goes from running a campaign to sitting in the hot seat. It is a trial by fire. Mencha-

ca's campaign was based upon the per-ception that his opponent, incumbent Sara Gonzalez, was missing in action.

During the first few month's after the hurricane, it was said that Carlos was everywhere. Once in office, he made himself a presence throughout the district, which includes Sunset Park and parts of Windsor Terrace and Bay Ridge. He moved to Red Hook during the campaign, and eschewing cars and even public transportation, he has be-come a familiar figure traveling the dis-trict on his bicycle.

Menchaca has tread slowly during his on-the-job training. He first worked to make his mark among his fellow Coun-cilmembers, becoming an important part of the Progressive Caucus, becom-ing head of the Immigration Commit-tee and heading a citywide initiative for municipal ID cards. He marched in pa-rades with his mentors Nydia Velazquez and Brad Lander - especially ones that highlighted his advocacy of LGBT and Mexican-American rights.

It happened that Menchaca came into office with a legacy of projects funded by his predecessor. The first was the Participatory Budgeting Project (PBP). This is a voluntary program that gradu-ally more members of the Council are taking part in. A councilmember can set aside a portion of their discretion-ary budget for programs chosen by the community in a democratic process that includes voting. Gonzalez set aside $2 million of her 2013-14 budget for PBP. Carlos took this over and has made this an important part of his governing agenda. This past year, the local proj-ects funded include a community gar-den behind the library and computer and air conditioning upgrades for PS 15.

The next legacy project was the Cof-fey Park renovation. Park users woke up one day this April to find the northern portion of the park fenced off. Close ob-servers might have noticed a few sheets

of paper explaining that the park would be under renovation and closed for a year. Sara Gonzelez had funded this a few years ago, but Sandy had delayed its

implementation.

At a subsequent meeting of the Parks Committee of Community Board 6 (CB 6), Marty Mahr from the Parks Depar-ment made a quick presentation of the renovation plans. The only Red Hook representatives at the meeting were parks activist Allison Reeves and the Star-Revue. When it was pointed out that the community might have want-ed to have some say in the renovation plans, Mahr called the lack of com-munication something that must have "slipped through the cracks." Reeves made a few comments as to the posi-tioning of proposed new barbecue pits, and Mahr made a few quick scribbles on the poster he brought to the presenta-tion, saying the changes were problem.

The park remains closed, and except for the change in location of a few pits, the renovation proceeds according to the Parks Department plans. These plans include the removal of the pav-ing stones that were in the park paths which will be replaced with cheaper as-phalt.

A repeat of the Coffey Park surprise occurred in August. Without any no-tice, fencing was put up around Valen-

tino Pier Park. This time, the outrage reached Menchaca's office, and he quickly arranged for a town meeting at the Red Hook library. He brought together principals of the Park Depart-ment, the Community Board and con-cerned local residents. Parks apologized for once again acting unilaterally, and then proceeded with a lengthy explana-tion of their plans. Repaving the gravel paths and preventation maintenance of the retaining wall had somehow out of a desire to fix the water fountain. Brook-lyn Parks Commissioner Kevin Jeffrey patiently answered all questions as Mar-ty Mahr looked on, uttering not a word.

At a subsequent meeting, publicized only on Menchaca's web page and not attended by the Star-Revue, Menchaca explained that he heard both the com-munity and the Parks Department, and had given his approval to Parks for this park work. Many agreed that the preven-tive work was not a bad idea, but some in the community still feel that the park is perfect and needs no change at all.

At the library meeting, Parks an-nounced that another project involving the park was at the beginning stages. Some residents had written to Coun-cilwoman Gonzalez requesting bath-rooms for the park. In her last budget, she followed through and allocated $1.7 million for a comfort station to be built and manned by the Parks Depart-ment. Upgraded FEMA requirements following Sandy raised the cost a half million more, which was quickly pro-vided by Menchaca and BP Eric Ad-ams. It should be pointed out that this newspaper, nor evidently many in the community, were notified at the time, of the increased funding regarding the bathroom project. It seemed to come as a complete surprise to most everyone.

In any case, the bathrooms were on the agenda of a September 17 CB 6 Parks meeting, held in the basement of the Miccio Center. This time many Red Hookers showed up. What they saw was a presentation by the Parks archi-tect Kevin Quinn and another architect who had won a design competition of some sort and prepared slides showing the proposed comfort station. The com-munity did not react well to an over-sized $2.4 million building to be created on a raised platform at the head of the park entrance on the Coffey Street side.

A petition was immediately circulated objecting to any reduction in green space. At a community meeting closed to local press, alternatives and a strat-egy were discussed. Finally, the local parks group announced the October 9th meeting to be held at PS 15.

Menchaca pointedly started the meet-ing precisely at 7 pm, and said it would end promptly at 8:30. The meeting began with a presentation of a revised plan, again presented by architect Quinn. By moving the park back to-wards Ferris Street, the need for such a large platform was reduced, and the park retains more contiguous space. Menchaca asked the audience for ques-tions specific to this new proposal.

There was no shortage of questions. The residents who showed up filled about half the auditorium - about 75 in all including a decent sized press contin-gent, as well as Dan Wiley from Nydia

Velazquez's office, and Craig Hammer-man and Leroy Branch, observing from CB 6. People were curious about cost, size and the necessity of building such

COMMUNITY RALLIES AROUND BATHROOM ISSUEby George Fiala

“The meeting proved that there is the possibility

to have a respectful and productive community

dialogue around an emotional issue.”

Councilman Menchaca counts a show of hands to gauge the neighborhood opinion.

This is a photo of the Portland Loo which puts a clean bathroom in a tight space

(continued on page)

Speaking about the Portland loo

Red Hook Star-Revue www.star-revue.com Late October 2014

ticipatory Budgeting Process and would be focused on open space projects that include—but are not limited to—parks.

The second option is that the project move forward taking into account the suggestions made by the community to decrease the size and costs associated of the project. I will continue to follow-up with the Parks Department to ensure that if indeed this option moves for-ward, they are taking seriously the com-munities’ questions/concerns, and mak-

a full featured facility, as opposed to simply a toilet or two. John McGettrick mentioned that he had spoken to Max of Estate4, who expressed a willingness to rent some bathroom space to the city in his building across the street.

Menchaca, limiting comments to two minutes each in order to hear from the greatest number of people, had some comments as well. He said that he had arranged for the money allocated to the comfort station to remain in Red Hook whether it was built or not. He would fold the money back into his Participatory Budget, restricted to use within Red Hook. He also announced at one point that he has the power to kill the project outright, which is true. After more than an hour discussing the parks plan, Menchaca allowed general comments, which were mostly people denouncing the whole idea of a comfort station. These populist statements were met with general applause. While most everyone seemed amenable to the idea of a bathroom or two, people were out-raged by the scale and cost of what is, in effect, NYC Parks Department bath-room procedures.

Near the end of the meeting, Van Brunt Street resident Ann Griepen-burg brought forward what perhaps was the most favored alternative - some-thing called the Portland Loo. This is a fully functional toilet that costs under $100,000 and fits in a parking spot. Ac-cording to Griepenburg, the loo offers the following features:

Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year

Exterior handwashing stations serve pe-destrians

Cleaned twice daily in Portland to maintain cleanliness

ADA-accessible; A bicycle or stroller easily fits inside

With such a small footprint, this could take the bathroom isue away from the domain of the parks department and into the domain of DOT, as it could

easily sit in the little traveled foot of Coffey Street.

As the meeting ended, Menchaca an-nounced that based upon what he saw as a clear consensus, he would make a decision within a week which he would email to all who filled out the sign-in sheet.

Afterwards, we emailed his office some questions. The questions and answers were as follows:

Q. You mentioned that there was a clear consensus coming out of last night's meet-ing. Can you elaborate?

A. Last night’s meeting accomplished several things:

1. An open—and very telling—dia-logue between community mem-bers and representatives of The Parks Department.

2. Some members of the community are actually open to a comfort sta-tion but have major concerns around size and cost of the original proposal. Many residents responded positively to the new location of the comfort station closer to Ferris Street.

3. The meeting proved that there is the possibility to have a respectful and productive community dia-logue around an emotional issue, and that there is a real commitment to have a concurrent community process alongside the process that is legally mandated in relation to all Parks projects.

Q. What are the choices that you see the community has in regards to the park?

A. 1 - The first option would complete-ly abandon the Parks Department’s cur-rently drafted plan for a comfort station at Valentino Pier Park. As an addition to the termination option, I have made the commitment that the City Council dollars that were intended to be invest-ed in this project would remain in Red Hook as part of our communities’ Par-

Parks Department brings compromise to PS 15 meeting(continued from page 3)

Later the Red Hook fire department was called.

Discussion proved fruitful. Although at first Triangle president Florin Kras-niqi dismissed the odor as not a large concern, he came to admit that indeed there was a noticeable smell, which falls against DEP regulations, and was will-ing to do something. In the hour-long

ing further changes to the plan.

Q. Do you expect the Parks Department to remain part of the eventual solution?

I expect that all stakeholders present last night, including the Parks Depart-ment, People for Red Hook Parks, the Community Board and residents will be part of this solution. This model of col-laboratively moving toward solutions is what I hope to replicate as these con-versations continue around this, and future projects, in the community

John McGettrick makes one of his points at the meeting held at PS 15.

Triangle meeting(continued from page 1)

meeting, which also included the SW-BIDC, it was decided that the company would begin an immediate search for a new location to store the trucks. John McGettrick, who attended the closed meeting, has already begun looking for a location. He is hoping to find one in an M3 zone with Red Hook.

This meeting was a long time in com-ing but those who organized it (Karen Broughton, Andrae Deventity[sp], and Mark Chin) called the arrangement agreed upon by both parties a “home-run,” saying that “it couldn’t have gone better.” Others are still skeptical that the promises of the business are just talk are holding their celebration until next week when a follow up meeting will be held to discuss progress made on finding a new site for the tar trucks.

Rotary Club Gala

Publisher Kimberly Gail Price and Bor-ough President Eric Adams enjoyed the Second Annual Gala of the Brooklyn Bridge Rotary Club. Held at Dyker Beach Golf Course, the club honored Brooklyn Heights Press publisher Dozier Hasty for his service to downtown Brooklyn. For information about Rotary, call Sandra Dowlling at 718 237-2176


Ashley was 9 years old on a bus to visit her father in an upstate correctional facility. She was

making the 9 hour ride all by herself.

When she finally arrived - eager to see her daddy - the facility informed her that the visitation schedule had changed. Ashley was sent back to the bus station, unable to spend precious time with her loved one.

In March 2013, Governor Andrew Cuo-mo and Brian Fischer, Commissioner of the Department of Corrections and Community Supervisions (DOCCS) re-leased a handbook for friends and fami-lies of incarcerated individuals.

The 67-page handout outlines a variety of procedures. On page 10, the docu-ment states, “Visitation by family and friends is encouraged and can be a posi-tive influence during an offender’s time in prison.” It continues, “Research has shown that an offender who receives regular visitation adjusts much better once he or she is released from prison when the privilege is used to maintain a positive relationship.”

DOCCS places great emphasis on maintaining “positive” relationships while incarcerated for two main rea-sons. Positive relationships outside cor-rectional facilities encourage inmates to rehabilitate their lives and harbor stable relationships to return to once time has been served.

Speaks to VelmanetteAt a chance meeting, Ashley was able to tell her story to NY State Senator Velmanette Montgomery. The Sena-tor set out to pass legislation to protect Ashley and others like her.

On August 11, 2014, Ashley’s Law (S.1413) was signed into legislation. The law requires that correctional fa-cilities to keep up-to-date visitation schedules that cannot turn away visitors such as Ashley. In a press release from Senator Montgomery’s office she states that “Ashley’s Law strengthens family ties between New Yorkers who are in-carcerated and their loved ones on the ‘outside.’ ”In addition, Montgomery is also work-ing on the Proximity Bill – or April’s Law. The bill, if signed, will amend the correction law, to requiring DOCCS to place incarcerated parents at correc-tional institutions and facilities closest to their children’s home.April Trianna, much like Ashley, has an incarcerated parent several hours away, making visitation infrequent and difficult. April also spoke with the sena-tor, and requested help. The Proximity Bill (S.2341/A.7191)would make visi-tation for April and her family more ac-cessible.

Many children involvedMore than 100,000 children in New York State have a parent in a correc-tional facility. “Experts in the field of criminal justice generally agree that in the vast majority of cases, children who have a parent in prison benefit from be-ing able to have personal contact and communication with them. Children and parents have indicated how impor-tant it is that they see each other, and research supports this,” according to Montgomery’s office.

“Consistent, ongoing contact reduces the strain of separation, lowers recidi-vism, and is the single most important

factor in determining whether a family will reunify after a prison term. How-ever, at present, a majority of individu-als are being housed in facilities that are hours away from their children and families,” the bill justifies.

On October 24, Montgomery, Brook-lyn Borough President Eric Adams, the Correctional Association of New York, New York Center for Juvenile Justice and the Osborne Association will cel-ebrate the passing of Ashley’s Law form 4-6 pm in the Brooklyn Borough Hall Courtroom (209 Joralemon Street.)

At the celebration, Ashley and April will both speak about their personal leg-islation, and what it will mean for the relationships with their families.

In addition, Raymond Rodriguez will talk about legislation that establishes child sensitive arrest policies and proce-dures (S.1416). Raymond watched the forceful arrest of his father. He relayed his story to the senator, who worked to draft legislation that would require ar-rests to occur outside the presence of children.

A national study conducted in 1998

ASHLEY’S LAW BRINGS JUSTICE TO PRISON VISITSby Kimberly Gail Price

The Union Street Bridge across the Gowanus Canal now has a beauty mark - two, actually.

The New York City Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Art Program teamed up with Arts Gowanus to un-veil a new installation over the Union Street drawbridge on October 16.

Two handmade fabric bouquets span large sections of the chain link fence on the northwest and southeast sides of the Gowanus Canal. Artist, Carl-ton Scott Sturgill designed the display DOT’s Arts Program, which partners with community-based organizations and artists to present murals, sculptures, and performances.

The Arts Program’s projects fall within five categories: Arterventions, barrier beautifications, community commis-sions, art displays, and site-to-site. Proj-ects are presented for up to 11 months. This art display will be exhibited for six months.

Sturgill is a Gowanus based artist who has shown work throughout New York and the country, as well as Canada and the United Kingdom. He often uses ma-

estimated that of parents arrested, 67% were handcuffed in front of their chil-dren, 27% reported weapons drawn in front of their children, 4.3% reported a physical struggle, and 3.2% reported the use of pepper spray.

“Witnessing an arrest can cause anxiety, confusion, anger, sadness, and a myriad of other emotions in children. Most chil-dren do not talk about this experience. Many develop negative associations with law enforcement or figures of authority as a result,” according to Montgomery’s draft of Raymond’s Law. “This can put them at risk because they may not seek assistance from the police when they feel unsafe or are in danger. Further, their re-spect for the law and sense of right and wrong can be complicated by their par-ent’s arrest.”

Montgomery’s office encourages con-stituents to call their state senators and assembly people to pass these legislations to protect the rights of children with in-carcerated parents.

For more information about April, Ashley and Raymond’s Laws, visit www.nysenate.gov/senator/velmanette-montgomery

(from l. to r.) Raymond Rodriguez, Ashley , and April with NYS Senator Montgomery.

Union Street Bridge location an art projectstory and photos by Kimberly Gail Price

terials from suburban landscapes, Home Depot paint chips and clothing scraps for his projects.

For the Union Street Bridge of flowers, Sturgill used thrift-store salvaged Ralph Lauren Polo shirts and fabrics for the rose petals and stems, then bound the bush together with green duct tape. The sprays were intertwined into the fence, and now offer a burst of color on the bridge.

According to a press release from DOT, “This whimsical art installation intro-duces an element of lightheartedness, nature and beauty to the scene.”

Arts Gowanus helped the project come to life by giving Sturgill the opportunity to showcase his work. The organization connects arts artists, and the commu-nity to nurture the vibrant creativity in the Gowanus while also supporting an affordable creative community.

Arts Gowanus produces several events throughout the year. The installation of the Union Street Bridge of Flowers was installed just prior to the Gowanus Open Studio Tours, when 340 studios were open to the public for thousands

of visitors experienced the art and met local artists.

The Bridge of Flowers will be on display through mid-April 2015.


Lenz Anniversary Recognized at Precinct MeetingThe 76th Precinct Community Council Meeting was held on Octo-ber 7, coinciding with the one-year anniversary of Captain Lenz named Commanding Officer. Jerry Armer remarked, “He has earned the re-spect of the community.” The Cap-tain responded, “I’m hoping to stay awhile.”Lenz has won the respect of much of the Red Hook community during his first year of service.

Crime StatsThe Captain delved into the crime statistics by saying that both pedes-trian and automobile accidents are down, and overall, the precinct is down to only 23 robberies for the year thus far. Most auto accidents are usu-ally “low impact collisions,” according to Lenz. He went on to say that grand larcenies are also on the decline. The Captain reminded that extra precau-tion should be taken this time of year to make sure that arrangements are made with a neighbor to secure deliv-eries of holiday gift packages “as it’s too easy for a perp to grab a package left unattended.”

Red Hook shootingThe Captain detailed the October 5 shooting and homicide on Bush Street at the Red Hook Houses. After a dispute, a 53-year old man was shot in the leg. The shooting took place in a hallway. The victim, identified as Robert Sterling, staggered down the stairwell where he bled to death. Captain Lenz said, “this was not a random act” and they have a “person of interest.” The case is being inves-tigated by Brooklyn South Homicide who is talking to people and collect-ing evidence. This is Red Hook’s first homicide of the year. In a separate incident, shots were re-ported reported to have been fired along Hicks and Henry Sts. Ballistics have been recovered and are being in-vestigated. Gunpoint livery robberies were reported, occurring within the vicinity of Lorraine St. and Henry St. These robberies have taken place in the early morning hours.

Politicians representedCouncilman Carlos Menchaca’s rep-resentative mentioned that Valentino Park’s restroom is the subject of de-bate and the community should weigh in by contacting the Councilman’s of-fice. Also noted were expanded hours at the Red Hook Library; progress

with the municipal ID program, im-migration bills aimed at easing ten-sions with police; and the beginning of a new Participatory Budgeting (PB)season. PB allows the community to choose projects requiring capital funding. Assemblyman Felix Ortiz’s rep an-nounced that the annual Thanksgiv-ing celebration will be held again at the Miccio Center.Judge Alex Calabrese from the Red Hook Community Justice Center discussed various issues including the peace-making program, saying that volunteers are needed.

Community InputAs is customary, the floor was then opened to the community. Robert Berrios from Visitation Church spoke about trucks illegally using Sullivan, Dwight and Van Brunt Streets as thoroughfares rather than for local deliveries only. He also complained that vehicles were using Lorraine St. as a “raceway” to IKEA. Addressing the issue, the Captain mentioned that Vision Zero’s 25 MPH speed limit was approved and would be enforced. Bicyclists behaving badly was also on Berrios’ list, specifically those on Van Brunt. The Captain responded that they are “constantly issuing sum-mons” in that area and “bicycle safety remains an issue.”Someone brought up the issue of the proposed new Gowanus parole office. Although in the jurisdiction of the 78th precinct it will bring in approximately 400 parolees a day, which is concern to the surrounding neighborhoods. Com-munity discussion regarding the place-ment of this parole office is ongoing.

On-Going issuesCommunity Affairs Officer Vincent Marrone spoke of graffiti and gunson the street. There is an ongoing pro-gram to redeem guns for cash. Officer Brady spoke of ATM and bank card crimes that are still an issue, as skimming devices can unlawfully de-tect your information. He pre-cau-tioned everyone to always cover their PIN number. Monthly community meetings are open to the public and held at the 76th Pre-cinct at 191 Union Street, usually on the first Tuesday of each month. Any immediate community issues should be brought to the attention of local politi-cians and police. For more information, members of the public can reach out to Community Affairs at (718) 834-3207.

News from the 76th Precinctby Keith J. Klein

Nancy’s UNISEX HAIR SALON

Full Service• Highlights/color • Keratine• Straighten/relax • Weave/braids

718.852.9089 142 Union [email protected] Brooklyn, NY 11231


Tribe Bicycle Company is the lat-est business to find a home on Van Brunt Street. Owners Wyatt

Lonergam and Mitch Rasmussen relayed the story of how they found themselves in Red Hook.

The two friends met in Shenzhen, a small city just outside Hong Kong. They both had lived in China for sev-eral years, working in the sourcing and development of hardware for products ranging from toys to electric cigarettes to bikes—and that’s where their idea came from. Because of their first-hand experience with the manufacturing side of business, “We know how to use quality stan-dards,” being able to procure and ensure a level of quality control right from the start that other companies have worked years to achieve.They have eight bicycle models cur-rently on display in their showroom, the front of their store on Van Brunt. In the back they assemble and ship bikes. Al-though they did not intend to sell retail he amount of pedestrian traffic stopping in has led them to install a POS ma-chine in order to facilitate customers. While they assemble bikes on site, the parts are all sourced from China. Ac-cording to the duo, “98-99% of all bike parts are manufactured between main-land China and Taiwan.”They always knew their stay in China was temporary, and the conception of a bicycle business made the move to Brooklyn essential. “In China, it’s all about price point,” Mitch explained. “If you can make a $20 bike, you can probably sell a million of them.” Knock-off brands are everywhere, and with the rush to lower prices, quality of the product is diminished. If they marketed their bikes at $2,000, rather than the $375 they start out at, they might make a splash in the Chinese market just for

the exclusivity the high price would in-still in their bikes. But wanting to make the best possible product at the most reasonable price is at the heart of what Tribe is about.

“We promised ourselves never to sacri-fice structural integrity for our margins,” said Mitch. The burgeoning bicycle market of Brooklyn allows for just that. “The market here is more mature… people know more about what they are buying,” Wyatt said.

The two first heard of the neighborhood from the Red Hook Crit, self described as “the world’s premier track bike crit featuring professional road racers, track specialists, bike messengers and urban cyclists competing over multiple laps around a fast technical circuit.” The race is held in Barcelona, Milan, and of course Red Hook, explaining some of the international attention the neigh-borhood receives for bicycling.

That coupled with its reputation as a “connected community great for small businesses” as it was described to the guys, made Red Hook an ideal location for them to set up shop.

With other neighborhood establish-ments such as Papillionaire and Dog Day Cyclery, Tribe feels at home. Wayne and Mitch say they don’t fear stepping on toes of other bike shops in the area because they do not compete with them directly, offering different services and types of bikes, and refer-ring customers to other local businesses when Tribe can’t meet the needs.

Their bikes reflect different cities around the world that have provided inspiration, such as their “Taipan” and “Monte Carlo.” When I asked if there were any plans in the works for a Red Hook bike, they were way ahead of me. “I already know what it’s going to look like,” Mitch said, but only revealed that,

Tribe Bicycle opens on Van Bruntby Diehl Edwards

yes, it would be red. They already have a Brooklyn bike, colored the same as the Brooklyn Dodgers uniforms. Inscribed are the latitude and longitude where the old stadium of Jackie Robinson, Ebbets Field, once stood.

“Cycling is an inclusive experience,” Mitch explained, and those who do it are members of a community, members of a tribe.

While they are invested in being an active element of the Red Hook com-munity (Mitch and his girlfriend have now moved here), photographing their merchandise at Pioneer Works and organizing local Pub Crawls (or Rolls, seeing as they’ll be on bikes), Tribe is also focused on the interna-tional market, looking to sell bikes at

global hot spots for biking such as Italy and the Middle East.

As their new models come onto their showroom floor, their range of custom-ers they can appeal to will grow. They will soon have cruiser models for more relaxed riding and hope to develop smaller-sized bikes for teens.

Tribe is open to suggestions and com-munication from their customers. “If there’s a need, we’ll do it,” said Mitch.

They encourage anyone who would like to know more or just wants to check out their new digs to stop by the showroom at 254 Van Brunt and say hello. Hours are 10 am -6, pm Monday through Fri-day. As Wyatt put it, “What’s cool about being a new company is that we’re open to anything.”

The youth empowerment organi-zation Added Value is preparing for the Red Hook Community

Farm’s 11th annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 25th from 10:00am until 4:00pm.

The event, which will be held at the farm itself, located on the corner of Beard St and Ostego St, will feature the musical styling of the Brooklyn band City Billies, catering by the local restau-rants Kevin’s and Baked, sushi made on site from the farm’s vegetables, pump-kin carving and decorating, and a few Alpine goats prime for the petting.

This year’s Festival is a way for Added Value to showcase the progress the Red Hook Community Farm has made in the two years since being completely devastated by hurricane Sandy. Along with major structural overhauls thanks to private and public donations and a committed youth involvement, the Farm has been able to reinstate its weekly Farmer’s Market, where people

can purchase the Farm’s produce. It began early this fall and has happened each subsequent Saturday and will be held during the Harvest Festival. The Farm’s overall production has risen so much that they no longer have to sup-plement their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) with vegetables from other farms, packing nearly every box with Red Hook-sourced food.

The weekly Farmer’s Market will con-tinue to be held each Saturday until the weekend before Thanksgiving. The com-posting portion of the Farm (the largest

Red Hook Farm survives Sandy and presents 2014 Festivalby Diehl Edwards

community compost program run on re-newable resources in the city) is opera-tional all year round, with donation times of 9:00 am-12:00 pm Fridays and 10:00 am-1:00 pm Saturdays. They will begin next year’s crops in their greenhouse around February/March of next year.

The Harvest Festival is open to the pub-lic and families are encouraged to come spend the day.

For more information about the Farm, check out their website www.added-value.org

George Fiala 718 624-5568 [email protected] Union Street Brooklyn, NY 11231

SelectMail

Direct Marketing Services since 1988The Red Hook Star-Revue

The Hook’s Local Newspaper

The Union Street

Star Theater“home of the legendary Thursday Night Jam”

481 VAN BRUNT BUILDING 8

718 624-5568 www.selectmail.com

[email protected]

df df df df df

Brooklyn’s mailing company teams up with Red Hook’s NY Printing & Graphics Our clients have included: St. Ann’s Warehouse, Eastern Athletic Club, BWAC & RHI Services Offered: • PoliticalMailings• Non-ProfitFundraising

Letters• Postcards• Brochures&Newsletters• FirstClass&StandardMail

Tribe celebrated their opening with a big block party on September 27.

The festival is a great place to pick up a pumpkin for the holiday.


harvest horoscope

SCORPIO’S RED HOOK WINE:Grallator 2010

175 VAN DYKE ST / PIER 41 AT BARNELL ST.

Named for the 3-toed dinosaur and the nick-name of stilt walkers (of which our wine-maker’s grandfather was with Cary Grant in Coney Island )

This wine resembles all Scorpio attributes. Sexy & Attractive, powerful, quick to bite and very intense. Pairs well with spice and bold flavors. Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon & Petit Verdot.

Mention this new wine, just 1 of 45 new wines & get an extra sample in

Tony Sterling, a lifelong Red Hook resident with a million friends and a big family, was

found dead in the morning of Sunday, October 5th, near his home on Bay Street. He was shot in his left leg, and bled to death. He was pronounced dead at Methodist Hospital.

Sterling, a 53-year-old father of five, was well known around Red Hook as being warm-hearted friend with a gen-erous way of living his life. After his death, a memorial on Facebook flooded with anecdotes of people telling of the times Sterling had helped them out. Whether it was gifts, rides, or lending money, he was always there to give back to the community he was such a vibrant part of.

Dawn Blondel befriended Sterling when she moved to Red Hook in 1983 as an emancipated minor, who was without any connections or friends in the area. Sterling reached out to her and the two became fast friends. “He was a big brother to a lot of people,” she said, describing Tony as “peaceful,” a “peacemaker,” and “a robin hood,” of the community, emphasizing his focus on helping those in need. He often drove the elderly to church services and provided other residents with rides to job interviews that were too far for them to make it themselves.

Blondel said that at social functions “he used to sell children’s balloons, but

always gave away more than he sold.” Sterling’s spirit was that of a philan-thropist; the act of charity was more of a reward for him that the money he re-ceived for it.

He also acted as a neighborhood mon-eylender. He was quick to supply the funding for his neighbors’ to see out-of-state family or whatever they needed a loan for, but he was not your typical TV loan shark. Once he lent you money, “you’d have to track him down,” said Wally Bazemore, a neighbor who wasn’t close to Sterling, but nevertheless knew of his reputation and good deeds.

Frank Morales, co-owner of Van Brunt’s F & M deli said that Tony would come in every day at precisely 3 in the after-noon - alone or with friends - and always ordered a meatball hero with American cheese.

The speculation about his death is that an attempted robbery went bad and the assailant shot Sterling below the waist to prevent a chase or a phone call to the police. His femoral artery was hit, leading to his tragic and sudden passing, leaving those still in deep grief dazed at this unbelievable loss.

“He was always happy,” Blondel said. “Actually, I only ever saw him mad one time, and that was when his brother was killed. He was shot in Red Hook too.” The chilling parallel between brothers reminds many in the community of a

Remembering Tony Sterling by Diehl Edwards

time when shootings were common-place in the neighborhood. And while Tony’s murder is the first in the precinct this year, it’s hard to find solace in the wake of such an abrupt and unjustifiable tragedy.

Blondel echoes the sentiments of many reeling from the death. A CPR practi-tioner, she said, “I would have tried to save him if I could.”

Sterling’s funeral was held at Calvary Baptist Church at 10:30 am on October 20. The church was full and most spoke of the love that he left behind.

Tony’s daughter, Destiny Nykeibia Sheftall, wrote the following poem dedicated to her father.

She recited it aloud at the service.

“Today I picked up my bible

And read some passages from it

I don’t know why I did what I did

Had no idea what I wanted

To be free of my sins, yes

But it doesn’t end

I asked him forgiveness

For me

For you

For plenty other too

He promised me he wouldn’t deny me

I asked him why I cry so much

Lately its been daily

In return he said my child don’t worry

I should never fail thee,

I got your back 100 per cent

I’ll say 100 percent if you don’t feel me

He then implied if I didn’t need you to cry

I wouldn’t of given you feelings.

Some of Tony’s childhood Paradise friends who came to pay their last respects. From left to right: Thomas Reynolds, AKA Lefty; Harold Armstrong; Eliott Ness; Clayton Foster AKA Clay. They all went to school together and spent a lot of time at the Red Hook ballfields. (photo by George Fiala)

A photo collage featuring Tony Sterling as put up on Facebook.


On Tuesday, October 14, the Carroll Gardens Association (CGA) hosted a Merchant Mixer at the House of Pizza and Calzones. Beverages and pizza were provided by the restaurant, while owners and employees from the area sat down to discuss the association and the visibility of Columbia Waterfront District.

The Columbia Waterfront District Merchant Association is looking to ex-pand their Facebook page and include photos and a brief description of local business members. They are also look-ing for administrators to make the page more active.

The Merchants Association also dis-cussed sponsoring an entire weekend for the December holidays. Every year, they hold a Christmas tree lighting in Human Compass Garden at the corner of Sackett and Columbia Streets.

This year, they are hoping to expand the tree lighting to a full fun-filled week-end. The lighting kick off the weekend on Friday, December 12. Holiday good-ies like hot cocoa and cookies will be provided. Santa will most likely make an appearance, as he usually does.

In addition, a holiday movie screening may be added at a nearby local restaurant. Other ideas included making the area more visibly appealing by adding strands of Christmas lights over the Union and Columbia Street area, a window compe-tition, and potted Christmas trees deco-

Raaka comes to Red HookBy Kimberly Gail Price

Raaka Chocolate, a Brooklyn company moved their factory into Red Hook this September. Tours, classes, school trips and high-end chocolate are now avail-able for locals to indulge in their love for chocolate.

On September 30, Raaka celebrated their move with a lively grand open-ing party, which drew hundreds of fans. A live band played in their new ware-house space at 64 Seabring Street. Six-point Brewery served their Crisp Sweet Action. Baked served goodies. And of course, Raaka sold their fancy chocolate bars whole inviting guests to sign their mailing list.

Attendees were invited to explore the space, investigating machinery and mounds of barrels and products – main-ly huge burlap sacks of cacao beans. Samples of both liquid and solid choco-late were widely consumed.

Raaka has multiple events to satisfy any sweet tooth. They offers chocolate mak-ing classes every 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month at 2 pm. From bean to bar, the two hour class offers participants the opportunity to taste chocolate at every stage. Participants will pour their own chocolate bars to take home.

Raw cacao from different regions of the world showcase how flavors vary. Stone grinders are loaded with raw ingredi-ents, and then poured into molds.

Tours of the factory are available Tues-days at 5 pm, Thursdays at 7 pm, and Saturdays at 12 pm. During the 45 minute jaunt, the Raaka team begins with the cacao tree and what happens

with the bean before it reaches the fac-tory. From there, the process is detailed through the end result of chocolate pro-duction.

The raw ingredients are transformed into a “silky, smooth texture” during the tours, according to Raaka’s website. The tours end with a sampling of signa-ture, hand-crafted bars.

Raaka also offers a “Taste the Season” menu with a Nib subscription plan. The tasting menu allows consumers to sam-ple festive flavors of the season. In Oc-tober, the subscription includes Ghost Pepper bar (69% OKO Caribe from the Dominican Republic), and Coffee Co-conut Milk bar (58% Maya Mountain Cacao from Belize.)

The new location has also been added to the Made in Brooklyn Tours, walking excursions that tell the story of Brook-lyn’s rich manufacturing history and today’s emerging maker’s movement. Friends of Raaka get a 50% off discount off any Made in Brooklyn tour.

The Raaka team invites interested par-ties to reach out to them with all of their “chocolate dreams and queries” at www.raakachocolate.com.

Columbia Waterfront District Merchants Association meets at House of Pizza and Calzone on October 15, 2014. (photo courtesy of Carroll Gardens Association)

Columbia Waterfront District makes plansby Kimberly G. Price

rated and maintained by local businesses.

In other news, CGA is launching a land use survey of current retail and vacant lots in the District. They are looking for volunteers to go from to each lot deter-mine the current uses of each.

At the next meeting in November, which has not yet been announced, Benn Fuller-Googins, Planning and Program Coordinator for CGA, will co-ordinate a guest speaker to discuss the process of incorporating the Merchants Association.

The Columbia Waterfront District Merchants Association is looking to in-corporate more local members. To join or get more information, email [email protected] or visit their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/cwdma.


LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

(send yours to [email protected])

EDITORIAL:

Elephants in the neighborhood

Over the past year, Red Hook has seen its share of controversial land-

use proposals. Some of these notable controversies include: BASIS International School, a private primary school; Spac-works’ proposal to utilize half of the Red Hook Library for studio space; Urban House Recovery, an upscale detox facility; and a multitude of issues involving Valentino and Coffey Parks.

Now, Red Hook is addressing the infamous case of bloated bathrooms in Valentino Park near Ferris Street.

However, one should not lose sight of the two elephants in the room that have not been ad-dressed by residents or our local politicians. These elephants are the 400,000 square feet next to IKEA, the former Revere Sugar Factory, purchased by Thor Equi-ties in 2006; and Est4te’s continu-ing purchase of land alongside the Erie Basin, including 160 Imlay Street and the Snapple building close to the Cruise Terminal.

Est4te just purchased a large parking lot across from Snapple that had been owned by the Haddad Film Truck company.

Haddad rents trucks to movie companies that film in the NY area. Many of these trucks are large semi tractor-trailers, used to haul extensive equipment to shoots. Those trucks have re-cently relocated to the Thor Eq-uity property, and the large semis are now a familiar sight traveling on Beard Street. They are parked at night on the unpaved and un-developed property.

Parking lots were an issue that arose when BASIS went seeking a variance to build their school next to the Red Hook Commu-nity Farm. Many in the com-munity felt that the school was preferable to truck and bus park-ing, which contributes to pollu-tion and increased traffic. Now, because of Est4te’s development plans, a much larger truck staging area exists a few blocks away from the BASIS site.

A common theme running through Red Hook’s irritation with BASIS, Parks and Urban House was lack of community involvement as plans were made.This outcry led to community meetings, many of them headed by our freshman Councilmember Carlos Menchaca. Mechaca de-

scribed the most recent commu-nity gathering concerning Val-entino Pier Park, stating: “The meeting proved that there is the possibility to have a respectful and productive community dia-logue around an emotional issue, and that there is a real commit-ment to have a concurrent com-munity process alongside the process that is legally mandated in relation to all Parks projects.”

Thor Equities has turned their property into an oversized park-ing lot. Est4te is purchasing large tracts of our industrial space in pursuit of their own vision of a Red Hook future.

It is about time for our commu-nity to be brought into the plan-ning processes of these elephants.

Proposition 1Because New York City is most-ly a Democratic town, most electioneering is done leading up to the September primaries, when the party candidates are chosen. Locally, we have cho-sen Felix Ortiz and Jo Ann Simon to represent us in the NYS Assembly; Jesse Hamilton and Velmanette Montgomery to join/rejoin the NYS Senate.

There is little doubt that these four will be the winners on No-vember 4.

The one big reason to vote this November is the appearance of Proposition 1 on the ballot. The proposed legislation would change the state government redistricting process, beginning in 2020.

For many years there has been an unwritten agreement between the political parties to enshrine power to the Democrats in the State Assembly, and Republi-cans in the State Senate. This system has created a power tri-umvirate in NY State consisting of the governor and the leaders of each branch of the legislature. It has also provided job security for our legislators. In 2012, 97% of incumbents won re-election statewide.

Proposition 1 was crafted as a way to reduce the gerryman-dering of the political districts which has created this system. One of the authors of the leg-islation is the president of Citi-zen’s Union, a good-government group. They describe their mis-sion as “a nonpartisan good government group dedicated to

making democracy work for all New Yorkers. Citizens Union serves as a civic watchdog, com-bating corruption and fighting for political reform.”

Supporters of the proposition include Citizen›s Union, the League of Women Voters and the NY Daily News. Opponents include the NAACP, Common Cause, the Center for Law and Social Justice, NYPIRG, and Newsday. The opponents claim that the legislation doesn’t go far enough to ensure fair voting dis-tricts andthink that a stronger bill could be passed if the State Sen-ate gains a Democratic majority.

As long as the powers that be maintain any control over the redistricting process, complete fairness is next to impossible. Critics claim the new law has flaws that would continue the politicizing of redistricting, but who is to say that a better law would be enacted in a situation where all three branches of State government are controlled by a single political party.

The Red Hook Star-Revue thinks a Yes vote on the propo-sition would at least put us on a path of reform.

Doesn’t like solicitationSeriously!

You and your [sic] rag are a sub existence not worth the smid-gen of electric it took to send this email, let alone the time it’s taking to request that you remove GBX from your contact list. Oh, and pls stop wasting paper, your polluting of infor-mation is enough without your contributing to the landfills.

As for advertising, the Brook-lyn Paper will get everything required. What do they call it; Brooklyn’s Real Newspaper!

your [sic] pathetic enough without begging for ad’s

Oh, and just in case you didn’t catch it, remove GBX from your contact list! - Phaedra Thomas.

The following letters were posted on our website follow-ing publication of the park sto-ry that appears in this issue.

Unholy threeMy perception of the commu-nities opinion regarding pave-ment in Valentino is very dif-ferent from yours. At the first meeting in the Library, there was so much concern and so many questions that a sec-

ond meeting was scheduled to continue the discussion. 45 plus people came to discuss pavement at Miccio. Instead we were told that the meeting was not a forum regarding pave-ment, instead a meeting to in-troduce a Comfort Station for the Park. Slides were projected, and the response to this building was overwhelmingly negative.

During the last meeting at the PS 15 – covered in this article, the community asked if changes in the size, design, location, etc could be con-sidered to which all answers from the park’s department chief engineer were “no”. Then a final vote with hands, out of a room of 75 people only three people raised their hands pro comfort station. George Fiala, John McGettrick and Allison Reeves. - Paige Tooker

Wait a minuteMyself, John McGettrick and George Fiala were the only three who raised our hands to SPEAK in support of a comfort station. There were many oth-ers who raised their hands in support of it when Carlos asked for a show of hands. I looked around during that vote and there were many raised hands, Paige Tooker’s included. She also later raised her hand against the station in another vote.

And just to clarify, no one, including myself, supports the comfort station as it is current-ly proposed; it’s still way too big and too expensive. If Parks comes back and says they can’t reduce the size, then I don’t want it either. But I do think that some sort of bathroom facility in the park would be an asset. The idea of having a bathroom facitlity in a nearby building or paid for by a devel-oper is also worth considering. - Allison Reeves

Parks agendaIn light of the current discus-sions, it seems appropriate to view recent experiences in Rockaway regarding Parks Dept. bathrooms and com-munity resistance: $4 million pod structures and their precise beach locations created perhaps the most contentious post San-dy meeting that actually caused the Parks Dept. to hold back the installation of two of the thirty five pods. (www.dnain-fo.com/new-york/20140304/rockaway-beach/price-tag-for-controversial-beach-shacks-in-creased-by-85m) The last two pods were just installed (last month), quietly whilst other boardwalk rebuilding work lumbers on.

In my understanding from ex-periences interacting with the

(continued on next page)


Mark’s CornerBY MARK SHAMES

Still more elections

parks department, it seems that bathrooms/lifeguard stations are their instrument of bu-reaucratic, colonial imperial-ism where they invest enough money into structures that provide parks jobs allowing the parks department to increase its budget and employment base. From contact with Parks Department administrators, i have learned that the opera-tion of public bathrooms and their maintenance is a high percentage of the “grade” they receive for their work. I have been told that the Parks De-partment earns a fee (a per-centage as high as 30%) of all construction contracts/invest-ments made on Parks Depart-ment property; this last detail, if fact, would suggest that the Parks Department benefits from the highest bidder on a contract?!

The Parks Department’s man-ual is outdated and convolut-ed by its history of formation under Robert Moses and the backlash that has been in-stalled as an overlay covering the outdated logic. This Valen-tino Pier bathroom discussion seems very familiar after wit-nessing the Rockaway discus-sions and actions.

I would suggest that the Parks Department is not concerned with popularity but mostly with growing their bureaucracy and balancing their books. Red Hook’s community of strong voices should push for a new pro-cess of interaction between com-munity and Parks Department with the premise that our goal of making Valentino Pier better for everyone is shared rather than a point of contention.

As far as the DOT: they have managed to stay out of the pub-lic bathroom business for de-cades, I do not think they want that responsibility!

The idea of installing the bath-rooms in the EST4TE FOUR property would not allow the Parks Department its fee (if that is fact).

Sadly, the Parks Department of NYC is in the bathroom business! In other words, their mandate is to build a bath-room, so why don’t we push for an innovative outcome such as the beautiful and context sen-sitive bathrooms built at 30th Street on Rockaway Beach by WXY Architects (image athttp://www.pinterest.com/pin/295337688037756786/)?

If we are adding architecture and function into our park, and paying dearly, we should be proud of the end product (no pun intended!) - David Selig

Parks advocateWhile I am incredibly excited about the level of care and con-cern raised about this project and the activism in the com-munity, I find the letter from this reader incredibly off base, off putting and frankly unpro-ductive.

While the Parks Department could and should improve its community input process, as could all government agencies, (a fact I believe most residents of Red Hook would agree to), we as residents of this commu-nity could and should improve our proactive engagement with our built environment, our natural environment, the gov-ernment agencies that govern those spaces and the economy that supports or distorts our re-lationships to each other and the world. There are some facts that should be considered that might help motivate a more proactive approach.

First, per capita, Red Hook has more green space and more parks space than almost any other community in New York. Use by residents of the community is an issue that is complicated by many factors including but not limited to licensing of the parks to rec-reational leagues, lack of re-sources within the community, the nature of programming and others. We have the power to address these issues creatively and constructively.

Second, New York City Parks and Recreation is one of the most - if not most - underfund-ed Parks department in the na-tion. Less than one percent of the City’s budget is allocated to support 5,000 parks properties. This fact encourages the devel-opment of public/private part-nerships, the licensing of parks to leagues and the creation of private parks (which we have a number of.) It also contributes to decay in the Parks. At one point there was a citywide cam-paign advocate for a change in this. Maybe this concept should be revived.

Third, the parks we have are incredible, and by working to-gether with Parks and Recre-ation. the citizens of Red Hook have helped improve and main-tain them. Who remembers when all the green space in Cof-fey Park was inaccessible to the community because of the iron fencing? Who remembers the positive and productive meet-ings that helped bring about the redesign that opened up all of the space. By working together with Parks, this open space be-came the site for some of the first Red Hook movies, off leash hours, and countless bbqs and birthday parties and holiday celebrations. This is just one example of many others of how by working together we can cre-ate wins for our community and wins for the Parks Department.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

(send yours to [email protected])

(continued from previous page)

Another powerful example of this kind of partnership is Red Hook Community Farm.

Since being opened in the fall of 2003, the Farm has served as the platform for important so-cial, economic, environmental. Health and wellness programs were developed, educational programs were created, and festival were had. Food grown on the Farm has been sold to market customers, CSA share-holders, and many of our local restaurants (and even bodega’s back in the day). Food has al-ways been donated to those in need.

The Farm is Parks’ property. It is a place where a generation of students a PS 15 participated in a year round intensive sci-ence based program. It is a place where delicious, nutri-tious food is grown shared and consumed. It is a place where social, economic and environ-mental sustainable practices are demonstrated. The Farm is a place where seasons are cel-ebrated and community is wo-ven together.

As the founder and former Execu-tive Director of Added Value, I can say that none of joy you have felt there, none of the wonder-ful meals consumed, none of the important educational moments (nor the rebuilding of the farm) would have been possible without direct proactive engagement with the Parks department and their incredible support for the project.

I want to thank the current Borough Commissioner (and former City Wide Deputy Com-missioner) Keven Jeffery, former Commissioner Adrian Benepe, former Borough Commissioner Julius Spiegel, the district man-agers past and present, the gar-deners, and grounds crews and seasonal staff for all that they did to help make Red Hook Community Farm a reality and for all that they do each day to make our parks so wonderful.

A healthy balance, a tension must exist between the people and our government. When challenges exist we must react and there has been a growing discourse about the comfort station at Valentino (and I am grateful to those of you who have helped make that hap-pen as I love the space just as it is). Our elected and appointed government has been respon-sive about the issue.

However in order to get the parks we want, in order to in-crease access and use of the parks by our friends and neigh-bors, we will need to move from reaction and response. We will need to be more proactive and productive. We will need to seek out structural change, ad-vocate for our Parks and those who work for them.

Unfortunately this letter does not push us in that direction. - Ian Marvy

I find it odd sharing my observations and spouting my opinions in print twice monthly. I love talking and laughing over food and drink with friends but there is no give and take when

writing and I have little interest in just what I think having al-ready thought it. I get greater pleasure spending my time learning about the concerns and policy prescriptions of others. I hope you get from me what I get from those that I read.

There are local elections beyond those that end up populating our federal, state and municipal governments. One such that is up coming is the election of community board officers. At Brooklyn Community Board 6 a maximum of 50 people will choose 5 officers. This is both easier and harder than it seems. Usually the current officers are simply re-elected but we have term limits in our by-laws and this year there will be multiple vacancies to fill.

People are busy and it is hard to get people to focus on this just as it is hard to get the public focused on the general election. Then when people finally start paying attention there are only a few who have both the time and the ambition to serve. The field nar-rows and those interested get a feel for the degree of their support and ultimate-ly it appears that there was never any opponent and as a result no one is openly embarrassed. A similar pro-cess usually unfolds in elec-tions at the local political clubs, as well. When there is the occasional contested election, and our votes are open, there can be some hard feelings.

There are emails and telephone calls going around right now. I have provoked some of this conversation by apparently being the only one to submit a formal slate of nominees. No, I did not include my own name. I am privy to some continuing con-versations and in the dark about others. In this instance it now appears that there will be a three-way race for Chairman and I hope that there will be no lingering hard feelings. I am anxious to see the final result. I am a great admirer of our current and outgoing chairman Daniel Kummer who has set a high bar for his successor.

General elections are coming up in November and though the outcomes are fairly obvious with regard to the ultimate winners, there remains the question of whether to vote down the redis-tricting constitutional amendment and the question of what ballot line to vote on. I previously stated my distain for the pro-posed amendment to our state constitution but for those who want to hear a debate on this, IND had Common Cause and Citizen’s Union facing off on this at its meeting at the Y at 3rd and Atlantic Avenues on October 16th. Sadly IND failed to advocate against the redistricting amendment. I would like to think that there would have been a different result if I was still President.

Now that my obligations as IND president have been voluntarily terminated and since I have apparently and unexpectedly been ex-punged from the executive board, as well, I am free to suggest that there is a better course than voting on the Democratic Party line.

Like most people I find no party fully reflects the range of my po-litical opinions. While I am an avid union supporter, I have had reservations about the continuing dominance of its formative unions in all WFP decision-making. While attracted to the en-vironmental platform of the Green Party the rest of its agenda is less appealing that that of WFP and its candidates leave me cold.

In the end it still seems that the WFP more closely tracks my core concerns than the current iteration of the Democratic Party or any other party. A few years back I even toyed with the thought of changing my party registration to WFP but events and a dose of pragmatism led to a change of mind. So I suggest that what is understood to be the progressive agenda will be best advanced by a straight party line vote on the Working Families Party line.

Outgoing CB 6 chairman Daniel Kummer


JABUS BUILDING CORP.Serving Red Hook for over 25 years

Specializing in Construction and Historic Preservation• New construction

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

Jim & Debbie Buscarello98 Van Dyke Street, Red Hook (718) 852-5364

Fax: (718) 935-1263www.jabusbuildingcorp.com [email protected]

HIC License #0883902 Trade Waste License #1135

RED HOOKPIZZA RISTORANTE

MARK’S

326 Van Brunt Street (bet. Pioneer & King) Open daily 10 am to 11 pm, Sundays 11 am - 10 pm. Free Delivery Available

(718) 624-0690 (718)624-1628 Fax (718)624-2145 All Credit Cards Accepted ($10 min)

COUPON SPECIAL #1(eat in or delivery(

One 18” large pie

10 Wings (hot, bbq or plain(

2 Liter Bottle of Soda

$21

COUPON SPECIAL #2(eat in or delivery(

One 16” Square pie

10 Wings (hot, bbq or plain(

2 Liter Bottle of Soda

$25CashOnly

CashOnly

L 14 35 L 14 25

W 41 14 W 30 17

W 19 14 L 21 31 L 19 27 L 17 24

EVERYBODY IN RED HOOK GOES TO

See you there!

W 30 20 L 0 27 L 21 31

L 0 31 L 17 31 L 25 27

Brooklyn Greenway Initiative’s (BGI) Second Annual Half Marathon began promptly at 9 am on Sunday, October 19.

Contenders arrived as early as 8 am to warm up and stretch.

Spectators and volunteers lined the route as runners wound their way from Columbia Waterfront Park into Red Hook and then looped up the Brook-lyn Greenway Waterfront. The path wound through Brooklyn Navy Yard and circled back in Williamsburg. Run-ners trekked back to the Columbia Wa-terfront Park on Columbia Street to re-ceive their finishing medals.

The 5K run kicked off at 9:30 the same morning. Participants spanned the ages, from very young to very old. One mother ran with her stroller in tow with an infant as the youngest participants. Smaller children also ran the shorter loop, barely breaking a sweat in the swift and brisk October breeze.

More than 500 participants registered for the event, more than double the runners from the previous year. This was the first year that the race included part of Red Hook as well as the Brook-lyn Navy Yard.

Justin Lenz, Commanding Officer of the 76th precinct ran the half marathon

On your mark, get set, RUN!!! (for BGI)story and photos by Kimberly Gail Price

with his pal, Mike Lipetri, who is CO of the 75th precinct in East New York. They celebrated with other finishers at the after party at the Hop Shop, a new restaurant who previewed their soon to be establishment specifically for the cel-ebration.

At the after party, Olivia Lynch award-ed finisher medals to the runners who place in the top three in each category: Half marathon - males; half marathon - females; 5K - males; and 5K - females.

The Hop Shop, located at 121 Co-lumbia Street, opened their doors for BGI. Although they have not formally opened their doors, they graciously in-vited volunteers, spectators and runners through their doors. The Hop Shop provided beverages and light snacks to their guests. By noon, their space was so packed that people wishing to watch the awards ceremony in the back beer garden were barely able to squeeze through the ever growing crowd.

BGI is a nonprofit organization that works to create green spaces through-out Brooklyn and provide pedestrian and bicycle pathways throughout the borough. For more information on their work or how to get involved, visit www.brooklyngreenway.org

Viviana Gordon, Red Hook resident runs the BGI half marathon.

Olivia Lynch, BGI Program Manager, holds the finishing medals.

Carl Henschel, a very enthusiastic volun-teer, guides and cheers on runners.

NYPD Commanding Officers, Captain Lenz (76th) and Captain Mike Lipetri (75th) celebrate their runs at The Hops Shop after party


I suppose.

Back on task, however, the Fair, as I remember it, despite only being in our neighboring borough, seemed like a hike to get to. Located at the western most part of Brooklyn, Red Hook’s transportation route required a bus and train, if not two, to get there. Though I don’t remember it, it was said that the IRT division was equipped with addi-tional cars that were made especially for the Fair that were painted orange, blue and white (the official colors of the Fair)

and had larger viewing windows to take in the skyline of the monumental Uni-sphere and the surrounding pavilions as one traveled along the elevated train to its Willets Point Station. I do recall, however, climbing down the outdoor stairwell of the train station and walk-ing towards that enormous globe as the oversized, international walkway flags vigorously flapped and waved in windy manifestation. The fountain streams weren’t so shy either.

What I could remember of all the sites we visited, and there were many with long lines to tolerate, were the Futur-ama, GE and Westinghouse Pavilions and, of course, The Pieta. “It’s a Small World”, a song that was part of Disney’s Unicef entertainment world of chil-dren’s songs and dances in the Pepsi Pavilion, was a jingle I imagine most baby boomers could still remember all the lyrics to. That’s how catchy it was and still remains.

The Belgian Waffle was, thankfully, a treat that was served up at the World’s Fair for all to enjoy and I think many kids and teens at that time would swear they ate nothing like it in their lives since. It was not something that could easily be duplicated on their taste buds, is what most believed. I’ve heard stories where kids would try to sneak onto the Fair grounds and use the one dollar they saved by not paying admission, to buy their waffle! (Truthfully, I can’t recall having one, but admittedly, I can’t pic-ture my sweet-toothed mother not buy-ing it for us.)

I only recall going to the World’s Fair on one, maybe two occasions. But many from the neighborhood have said they went weekly, or some went on field trips with their schools, and some even went to participate in the events. My brother went with his friends. There were a bunch of neighborhood guys that used to hang out on Henry Street. They would meet up and go together. They

Robert Moses and the World’s Fair(continued from page 1)

knew of a fence that they could sneak in through alongside the Grand Central Parkway. They particularly gallivanted around the international grounds and sampled the different cultural foods. They recalled some of the pavilion’s attraction rides, and in their teenage rebel-rousing zeal, rocked one of the cars so hard that it jumped the track. Of course, they were asked to leave, and as they put it, “We were always asked to leave wherever we went, but we always had fun!”

I was just a decade old at the time of the ‘64 World’s Fair and only a few things made a delible impression on me. Undoubtedly, The Pieta was the high-est among them. Aside from the whole namesake thing, and don’t get me wrong, the statue itself was magnificent, for some reason it was not that work of art that impressed me the most. It was the rich, midnight-blue backdrop that caught the attention of my ten-year-old eyes and held it there, hopelessly trans-fixed, while that color worked its magic inside my head. That velvety sapphire-hued fabric, draped unmoving and ever so elegantly behind a broken-hearted mother and her dead son, seemed to encompass my thoughts more so than the empathy of the centerpiece it was designed to highlight and evoke from its audience. It stirred feelings of comfort within me that was unspeakable, un-explainable to me as a little girl. Even the moving walkways providing differ-ent views from different heights did not make quite an impact on me. I was clue-less back then, having never before seen that royal-colored night time blue while living in the city where only a black starless sky covered my brightly-lit Red Hook world with tunnel and highway lights.

It was as if that color and I were pre-destined to meet at the Fair because in the years to follow, it marked a series of life-changing events in my life. It was that color I felt drawn to in my Catholic grammar school class where a talented teacher drew a blackboard-sized chalk drawing of the Virgin Mary cloaked in a lighter shade of that midnight blue. I felt that same fixation and knew in-stantly I wanted to draw and paint, too, which I eventually went on to do. It was that color that I came to know as lapsi lazuli in the Frick Collection on Fifth Ave, where on an early date with my then husband-to-be and I felt truly con-nected with our mutual love of a lapsi lazuli-topped end table. And it is that

same hypnotic sapphire hue that I stare up into at St. Stephen’s Church as the star-studded sky hanging above the Pre-sepio where my husband proposed to me one Christmas Eve. It even cunningly accents my home in European style as a reminder to me that I am consoled by its presence.

I wish I could say after all this senti-ment, that I have long since let bygones be bygones when it comes to Robert Moses, but sadly, I harbor a grudge still. In fact, it was a topic of conversation

when I met with a student who was do-ing her dissertation on Red Hook. She was intrigued with the amount of en-ergy we Red Hookers/Carroll Gardeners put into “the split” by the expressway.

“It didn’t just happen to Red Hook, you know.” she pointed out. Well, yes, that may very well be true, but we could only measure our own discontentment, not others’. And, yes, we did have an incredible, memorable World’s Fair, but the truth is, Robert Moses had his own agenda for that, too.

Interesting Fair Facts • This years marks the 50th Anniversary of the 1964 World’s Fair.

• The idea of the 1964 World’s Fair was originated by Robert Koppel, a lawyer, and a group of New York businessmen who fondly remembered the ‘39 World’s Fair and wanted their chil-dren and grandchildren to have that same experience.

• Power broker Robert Moses was selected to be the organizer and President of the Fair; his salary was $1,000,000.

• The park in which the Fair was located was Flushing Meadows Park, Queens. It was also the siteof the 1939 World’s Fair, and at one time the site of an old ash dump called the Corona Dump.

• As a brain scheme of Robert Moses’, Shea Stadium and major highways were wrapped into the budget of the World’s Fair.

• The 1964 World’s Fair was touted to be the very first “Billion Dollar Fair”, sparing very little expenses;

• it covered about 650 acres of park land and held about 168 major pavilions. It was eight times larger than the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair. One would need 30 visits to cover all the sites.

• The Fair ran from April to October in both 1964 and 1965 for a total of 360 days. Admission was $2 for adults; $1 for chil-dren and .25 cents if a child attended with a teacher.

• Robert Moses anticipated that opening day alone would see at least a quarter million people walk through its gates, but because of rain, a mere 90,000 people showed up on April 22, 1964.

• That same year in 1964 the Mets opened in Shea Stadium, Louie Armstrong’s “Hello Dolly” was number one on the charts and he had his own motorcade parade at the World’s Fair.

• Ford Motor Co. unveiled their signature car of the 1960’s - the Mustang - in the Ford Pavilion, and five Olympic Trial events were held at the 1964 World’s Fair’s Singer Bowl.

• .Despite the excitement of Fair goers, Time and Life Magazine wrote negative articles about the Fair’s portrayal; other publi-cations claimed the ‘39 World’s Fair was a “Fair of the Future”, but the 1964 Fair was a “Fair of the Already”

• In the spring of 1965, inclement weather was such a deterrent to attendance that Robert Moses ordered the Weather Bureau to put a more positive spin on its forecast. They refused at first, but then complied by emphasizing the sunny parts of the day, rather than the cloudy.

• The famous “Belgian Waffle” at the 1964 World’s Fair was re-ally introduced at the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair, unlike what most think.

• In May of 1964, 12 year old Dominic Tucci of Port Washington, Long Island, ran away from home, snuck in, and managed to live at the Fair for nine straight days! Asked how he managed to get in, he remarked that the Fair’s fences and gates were a cinch to get through.

• In order to make a profit, Robert Moses anticipated a total at-tendance of 70 million people. The two-year attendance to-taled about 51 million people, causing a loss of millions of dollars, and his hopes of completing Flushing Meadow Park, a project that was abandoned after the 1939 World’s Fair. Law-suits and legal disputes continued until 1970.

George and Susan Fiala exit a rocket at the NY State Pavilion. (photo by Dr. Alexander Fiala)

Robert Moses takes a look at his creation.


34 VAN DYKE ST, BROOKLYN, NY 11231 (718) 246-8050

THE STAR-THEATER JAM HAS MOVED TO ROCKY SULLIVAN’S!

EVERY MONDAY 8 - MIDNIGHTBRING YOUR AXE! More than 150 restaurants will be

participating in Dine In Brooklyn, the borough’s Restaurant Week.

Thirty different neighborhoods will showcase their eats beginning Octo-ber 20 - October 30, Mondays through Thursdays. Most restaurants will offer two-for-$15 lunches and a prix fixe din-ner menu for $25.

At an October 10 press conference, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Ad-ams kicked off the event. Media and food industry professionals sampled morsels from a selection of the res-taurants that are participating. They included Red Hook’s Brooklyn Crab, Carroll Garden’s Marco Polo, Boreum Hill’s Crepe and Juice, and Bay Ridge’s Greenhouse Café.

According to Adams, Dine In Brooklyn reflects the diversity of Brooklyn while driving the local economy.

Savor Brooklyn’s unique flavors at Dine In Brooklyn

by Kimberly Gail Price

“Dine In Brooklyn celebrates the five-star flavors that make Brooklyn a ‘must-taste’ destination,” Adams said. “This event is an opportunity to support con-tinued growth while encouraging diners to discover – or rediscover – their favor-ite Brooklyn dish.”

Dine are also encouraged to share their experiences on social media. They can tweet their favorites on Twitter @din-einbk, post feedback on Facebook/Din-einBk, and even share photos on Insta-gram @DineinBk.

Sponsors of the two weeklong event in-clude Jet Blue Airways, Resorts World Casino, New York City, The Home Re-porter, Brooklyn Spectator, Restaurant Depot, Vassilaros & Sons, Yelp, and El Correo.

Prices for Dine In Brooklyn do not include tax and gratuity. For a full list of participat-ing restaurants, visit www.dineinbk.com.

Alma Restaurant187 Columbia StreetColumbia Waterfront DistrictCuisine: Mexican

Brooklyn Crab Shack24 Reed StreetRed HookCuisine: Seafood

Char #4196 Smith StreetCobble HillCuisine: American BBQ

Enoteca on Court347 Court StreetCarroll GardensCuisine: Italian

Jake’s Barbecue189 Columbia StreetColumbia Waterfront DistrictCuisine: Barbecue

Kevin’s277 Van BruntRed HookCuisine: American

Marco Polo Ristorante345 Court StreetCarroll GardensCuisine: Italian

Mazzat208 Columbia StreetColumbia Waterfront DistrictCuisine: Mediterranean

Savoia277 Smith Street Carroll GardensCuisine: Italian

The Chip Shop129 Atlantic AvenueBrooklyn HeightsCuisine: British

The Good Fork391 Van Brunt StreetRed HookCuisine: New American

PARTICIPATING LOCAL RESTAURANTS

Columbia Street’s Mazzat offers fine Mediterranean fare as well as a full bar.

Jakes and Alma are both participants in Dine in Brooklyn


No job too big or too small

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

Pool Heaters.

B & D HEATING507 Court Street 718 625-1396

Star-Revue ClassifiedsPLUMBING

Licensed Electrical ContractorsCommercial • Residential • Industrial

Free Estimates

Violations RemovedAll Types of WiringEmergency Service

Vito Liotine(718) 625-1995(718) 625-0867

[email protected]

137 King StreetBrooklyn, NY 11231Fax: (718) 935-0887

EMERGENCYSERVICE

AuctionsBuy or sell at AARauctions.com. Contents of homes, businesses, vehicles and real estate. Bid NOW! AARauctions.com Lights, Camera, Auction. No longer the best kept secret.

Auto DonationsDonate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make‐A‐Wish. We offer free towing and your dona-tion is 100% tax deductible. Call (855) 376‐9474

Help WantedAIRLINE CAREERS begin here Get FAA approved Aviation Maintenance Technician training. Financial aid for qualified students – Housing available. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 866-296-7093

$8,000 COMPENSATION. EGG DONORS NEED-ED. Women 21-31. Help Couples Become Fami-lies using Physicians from the BEST DOCTOR’S LIST. Personalized Care. 100% Confidential. 1-877-9-DONATE; 1-877-936-6283; www.longis-landivf.com

Home ImprovementSave $ on your electric bill. NRG Home Solar offers free installation if you qualify. Call 888‐685‐0880 or visit nrghomesolar.com. HIC# 1427914, HIC# 5972, Wc24767h12, H11586400000

Land For SaleCatskills 9 Acres $29,900 2 hrs Tappanzee Bridge the best deal in Greene county, beautiful woodland. long road frontage, surveyed, easy access thruway, Windham Ski Area and Albany, bank financing avail-able 413 743 0741

LegalREAL ESTATE CLOSINGS Buy/Sell. Expd Attorney, Real Estate Broker, ESTATES/CRIMINAL MAT-TERS Richard H. Lovell, P.C., 10748 Cross Bay, Ozone Park, NY 11417 718 835‐9300. www.Lovell-Lawnewyork.com

Lots & AcreageWATERFRONT LOTS-Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

Was 325K Now from $65,000- Community Center/Pool. 1 acre+ lots, Bay & Ocean Access, Great Fishing, Crabbing, Kayaking. Custom Homes. www.oldemillpointe.com 757-824-0808

Real EstateDiscover Delaware’s Resort Living Without Resort Pricing! Milder winters & low taxes! Gated Com-munity with amazing amenities! New Homes $80’s. Brochures available‐ 1‐866‐629‐0770 or www.cool-branch.com

WantedCASH for Coins! Buying ALL Gold & Silver. Also Stamps & Paper Money, Entire Collections, Es-tates. Travel to your home. Call Marc in NY: 1-800-959-3419

YOUR BOARD MEMBERS CAN RAISE MONEY!

Empowering your Board Members to be Successful Askers

Thursday, September 11, 20149:30 am to 12:00 pm

Brooklyn Law SchoolFeil Hall

205 State StreetBrooklyn, NY 11201

FREE Fundraising Workshop for Nonprofits

Pre-registration is required for this FREE workshop.To register, visit npccny.org/workshop.htm

or call 212-502-4191 ext. 230.

“ART & ANVIL LIBERTY INC” (RED HOOK) IS CURRENTLY SEEKING:• Skilled welder-fabricator experienced with wrought iron railings, fencings, gates,

furniture etc. Necessary experience of no less than 3 years.

• Blacksmith assistant. Training provided.

Resume by fax (347) 529 6353 or by e-mail [email protected]

To place an ad in this section call 718 624-5568 or email [email protected].

Rates start at $30 per issue.

An automobile hit the B61 bus at Coffey and Dwight Streets and sent two people to the hospital with critical injuries on October 22. The accident, which hap-pened just before 6:00 pm, resulted in the bus swerving onto the sidewalk, hit-ting several parked cars and a building.

In addition to the two seriously injured persons, five other suffered minor inju-ries.

Still waiting for Valentino Pier decisionAt an October 8th community meeting, Councilman Carlos Menchaca prom-ised to come up with a decision regard-ing the bathrooms at Valentino Pier.

He ended that meeting by saying that his decision would be emailed to every-

Bus accident on Dwight Street

one who filled out a sign-in sheet. He promised that this decision would be made within one week.

The meeting was held under the aus-pices of a recently formed neighbor-hood group called People for Red Hook Parks. A Facebook page is maintained by the group and serves to disseminate information regarding both Coffey and Valentino Pier park activities.

In addition, the Councilman maintains a Facebook page where he often posts no-tices about meetings and things he is up to.

As of the evening of October 22nd, there have been no emails received by the Star-Revue, who filled the sign-in sheet, nor mentions on either of the above Facebook pages regarding the fu-ture of the Valentino Pier comfort sta-tion plans.

The Star-Revue will publish his decision as soon as it is available

Up For Anything, a play written and acted mostly by Red Hook residents is having a second run at the Jalopy Theater. It is a hilarious farce, starring Ben Schneider, who also is co-owner at the Good Fork. As earlier this year, the shows will be at the Jalopy Theatre, 315 Columbia Street, Brooklyn. Jalopy Theater is 315 Columbia Street, Shows are October 27 at 8 pm, November 2 at 3 pm and 8 pm, and unless sold-out, available at the performance. (photo by Craig LaCourt)

Local production encores at Jalopy

Deli fines to be resolvedLast week the two delis on Pioneer Street received multiple tickets for what one might call nitpicking rea-sons. One violation was for a no smoking sign hung crookedly.

The sting was carried out by the of-ficers of the 76th precinct, who says that the delis were chosen at random, and that this is what they do some-times.

Councilman Menchaca was informed of this and the matter should be re-solved according to both Menchaca and Captain Lenz.

Most likely there will be a compro-mise, with some of the fines dismissed, and others paid.

The Star-Revue has received com-plaints of the Sanitation Department issuing excess summonses for scraps of paper on the sidewalk. It this has happened to you, please email us at [email protected]

late october red hook star revue

Documents

final staging

heating process

roofing company

roofing tar

noxious fumes

person responsible

new jersey

company principals