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2012 STATE OF THE BOROUGH
ADDRESS
Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz
Brooklyn College
February 1, 2012
As prepared
Thank you, Carlo —and thank you Dr. Gould for that wonderful
introduction.
Thanks also to the Brooklyn College students who participated in the
video you just saw — as well as the Division of Student Affairs.
I know we're a little past homecoming season — but this Brooklyn College
alum could not have wished for a warmer welcome.
I want to thank tonight's performers — the Concert Band of Dyker Middle
School — the Brooklyn Youth Chorus — Deep — the dancers from the Hellenic
Classical Charter School —
"efharisto!"
And of course, a very special thanks to the Brooklyn College
Cheerleaders.
It may not surprise you to learn that this is the first time in my life
that any cheerleader has shown any interest in me!
Now, twirlers — that's a different story — many years before I met her,
my wife, Jamie, a proud daughter of Manhattan beach, twirled batons at
Lincoln High in Coney Island.
Jamie, please stand!
By the way, congratulations to Lincoln on winning the 2011 citywide PSAL
Football Championship!
I want to welcome some other very special guests — Renate Brauner, Vice
Mayor of Vienna, one of the most beautiful cities in the world — (outside
of Brooklyn of course).
Our two cities have so much in common — Brooklyn has Junior's Cheesecake
and Vienna hassacher tortes! But we don't have "gruner
veltliners."
Vice Mayor, please stand.
I want to welcome all the members of Brooklyn's community boards,
precinct councils, community education councils, civic leaders and local
activists — thank you for all you do for Brooklyn.
I want to welcome State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, and congratulate
him on doing a great job I also want to thank Council Speaker Christine
Quinn for her outstanding leadership.
And I want welcome my colleagues — from the outer borough of Manhattan,
Borough President Scott Stringer — Staten Island Borough President James
Molinaro — and from Brooklyn upstate, "Da Bronx," President Ruben
Diaz. As well as Brooklyn FDNY Borough Commander Chief James Leonard— and
Brooklyn south assistant police chief Thomas Chan.
And of course, I want to thank the entire staff at Borough Hall for
working so hard to put this together.
I've often said that there are two women in my life — my wife, Jamie, of
course — but also Yvonne Graham, a proud daughter of Jamaica who served as
Deputy Borough President for ten years.
Yvonne recently left us to become the Associate Commissioner of the New
York State Office of Health Disparities Prevention.
We were all sad to see Yvonne go, but I have one very personal reason —
with her gone, I'm no longer the second-shortest person at Borough Hall.
Well, we've gone from Jamaica to Guyana.
We're thrilled to have as our new Deputy Borough President Sandra
Chapman.
Sandra, a proud daughter of Guyana by way of Canarsie, previously served
as the director of the Community Service Center at Borough Hall — and
nobody better understands the needs and concerns of Brooklynites.
I know one of her major priorities will be literacy programs in
Brooklyn. Sandra, welcome aboard!
I also want to wish everyone here a Happy Chinese New Year — "Kung
hai fat choi!"
May we all have a safe and prosperous "Year of the
Dragon!"
I want to thank our hosts — and my proud alma mater — Brooklyn College,
led by President Dr. Karen Gould.
It's only been two years since Karen left Cal State Long Beach — from
the "City of Angels” to the "County of Kings" — but it's
clear that she's got the Brooklyn attitude.
And can you believe she's the first woman to preside over Brooklyn
College? Hey trustees, what took you so long?
Of course, Brooklyn College is one of the four Brooklyn CUNY colleges —
along with City Tech — many thanks to President Dr. Russell Hotzler.
Kingsborough Community College — thank you, Vice President David Gomez.
And Medgar Evers College, kudos to president Dr. William Pollard, all of
us are pleased to have them with us tonight. Please stand.
Brooklyn College is located in the heart of Flatbush, one of Brooklyn's
most dynamic neighborhoods.
Flatbush sits smack in the middle of the borough — right where it should
be — because Flatbush has always been the center of life in Brooklyn.
When I was growing up, when you thought of Brooklyn, you thought”
Flatbush."
It was home to Ebbets Field and "Dem Bums," our beloved
Brooklyn Dodgers.
The place that produced great American writers like Norman Mailer and
one of the greatest singers in the world, Barbara Streisand (although, it
should be noted, she never performed in Brooklyn — not yet, anyway).
And today, Flatbush is one of the fastest growing neighborhoods in the
city with the restaurants on Cortelyou Road and the co-ops on Newkirk
Avenue and the most majestic apartment buildings on Ocean Avenue and
surrounding tree-lined neighborhoods. Of course, Flatbush has also become
one of Brooklyn's newest stroller derbies.
It has long been a dream of mine to restore the classic Loew's Kings
Theater on Flatbush Avenue and I am delighted to announce that this year,
the renovation will finally begin.
When it is completed in 2014, it will be Brooklyn's Beacon Theatre and
Apollo — all rolled into one.
It will be just like the original Loew's Kings — without the matrons in
white dresses and gloves, carrying long flashlights and telling us to shut
up, of course.
Also in 2014, we'll see the completion of Brooklyn College's Leonard and
Claire Tow Center for the Performing Arts, which broke ground in 2011, and
which I was proud to support.
When it is completed, it will be one of the largest performance spaces
in this part of Brooklyn, and will even feature a professional-grade
recording studio.
Brooklyn is the epicenter of the Caribbean Diaspora in America— and
Flatbush is the epicenter of the epicenter.
When I ran for office, I said I would do all I could to make sure that
Caribbean Brooklynites would have a place to call their own.
Fortunately, Dr. Roy Hastick, founder, president, and CEO of the
Caribbean-American Chamber of Commerce and Industry, had a vision that he
has pursued for years, and tonight I am pleased to announce that it has
come to fruition.
The Department of Education is turning over the landmark Erasmus Hall
Academy building, part of the Erasmus High School campus, to serve as
CACCI's permanent home, as a trade center and Caribbean cultural center.
Roy is here tonight with his wife, Eda — Roy and Eda, please stand.
And Roy, because this is so important, tonight I am pledging $1 million
in capital funds for this project — let's make it happen now!
And all of Brooklyn thanks Councilmember Mathieu Eugene, who has also
shown his commitment by pledging $1 million.
Councilmember Eugene, please stand.
And of course, for his helping making this project a reality, we thank
Chancellor Dennis Walcott.
You know, it took me a while to graduate from Brooklyn College — I began
in 1962, attended night school while working during the day, and finally
received my degree in 1970.
You might say I was on the “nine year plan!"
But I'll tell you, I would put the education I received from Brooklyn
College up against any Ivy League institution — there's a reason Harvard is
considered the "Brooklyn College of the Ivy League."
And I'm sure every Brooklyn College alum — including Councilmember
Jumaane Williams — would agree with me.
Back then, Brooklyn College was the same amazing school it is today —
although in many ways it was a different time in Brooklyn.
Like the "Welcome Back, Kotter" song says, "your dreams
were your ticket out" — and unfortunately, for too many Brooklynites
that was true.
When I was growing up in Crown Height sin the 1950's, Brooklyn was
experiencing its first-ever population decline.
And during the 70s, Brooklyn lost nearly one out of every seven
residents.
Today, it's a different story.
Every day brings new arrivals from all over the world to Brooklyn whose
dreams are their "ticket in," including the children — and
grandchildren — of those who left in the 1950's, 60's, and 70's.
And for those of us old-school Brooklynites who never gave up on Brooklyn—
which I know includes many of you here tonight — it has been incredible to
see the world catch up with us.
Hey listen — I've never heard myself described as "cool," but
I can honestly say that I live in the "Coolest City on the Planet,”
according to the "Bible of Cool," GQ Magazine.
In fact, they originally asked me to pose for the cover of their
November issue!
And for all the ways that Brooklyn has changed, our diversity — our
status as proud home to everyone from everywhere — is, and always will be,
our strength.
No matter where we come from originally, together we form "One
Brooklyn."
Tonight, I'll show you some of the ways Brooklyn continued to shine
in2011.
One Brooklyn — One Road
As far as I'm concerned, all roads lead to Brooklyn.
I want to begin with one that runs through some of Brooklyn's greatest
neighborhoods — Boerum Hill — Park Slope — Gowanus — Sunset Park— and Bay
Ridge.
From Atlantic Avenue to the Atlantic Ocean, 4th Avenue is one of
Brooklyn's major traffic arteries — but one that, in my opinion, has yet to
reach its full potential.
I want to transform this drab commercial strip into a vibrant tree-lined
thoroughfare I am calling "Brooklyn Boulevard"— with retail stores,
destination restaurants, and safe streets.
I want to thank my senior advisor, Carlo Scissura, for taking the lead
on this, as well as the members of our 4th Avenue Taskforce.
I was proud to join with Assemblymember Joan Millman to allocate funds
for the first phase of our plan — the beautification of the 4th avenue and
9th Street Subway Station — which is well underway.
For their help with the taskforce we also thank Councilmembers Sara
Gonzalez — Brad Lander — Steve Levin — and Vincent Gentile — as well
as the Park Slope Civic Council — UPROSE — Community Boards 2, 4, 6, 7, and
10.
One Brooklyn, One Waterfront
We often forget that Brooklyn is not merely America's Fourth Largest
City — it is also one of America's greatest waterfront
cities.
Just look at everything that's going on at the Brooklyn Navy Yard —
kudos to Navy Yard President and CEO Andrew Kimball as well as board Chair
Alan Fishman.
And congratulations to Doug Steiner on another great year for Steiner
Studios, which is doubling its space — hey, "Antiques Road
Show," we're waiting for you!
And Steiner will soon be home to Brooklyn College's film school, the
first graduate film program on a working studio lot, which will open in
2014.
If we keep this up, Hollywood really will be “Brooklyn West."
Speaking of Hollywood, congratulations to Tony and Gina Argento for
Broadway stages in Greenpoint, where parts of "Blue Bloods,"
"The Good Wife," and "Royal Pains" are shot.
As well as J. C. Studios in Midwood (a.k.a. Vitagraph Studios) where
parts of the Oscar-nominated "Extremely Loud and Incredibly
Close" were filmed.
The Navy Yard will soon be the site of a green manufacturing center that
will bring hundreds of jobs, joining innovative companies like longtime
Navy Yard tenant Dugal, which specializes in solar-powered street lights
and other environmentally friendly products.
Crye Precision, makers of the kevlar bulletproof vests that keep U.S. and
British troops safe, is relocating to the Navy Yard from New Jersey.
I want to urge every single Brooklyn family to see the recently opened
visitor center at the Navy Yard, which includes a great museum that
celebrates the important role the Navy Yard and Brooklyn have played in
American history — as well as a café, and other attractions.
And I was thrilled that the federal government, led by senator Chuck
Schumer, transferred Admiral's Row to the Navy Yard, so we can finally show
some love to the residents of the Farragut, Whitman, and Ingersoll Houses
in Fort Greene — providing a place where they can both shop and work.
Many thanks also to Councilmember Tish James.
This was another banner year for the most iconic part of Brooklyn's
waterfront, Coney Island — I have been proud to work with City Council
Finance Chair — and "Mr. Coney Island" himself — Domenic Recchia.
Old favorites like Deno's Wonder Wheel and the Cyclone thrilled tens of
thousands — while the new Luna Park continued to pack them in — "mille
grazie" to Zamperla and Valerio Ferrari.
Luna's new attraction area, the Scream Zone, features thrilling rides
such as the "Brooklyn Flyer," which Luna's website describes as
"so amazing, we had to name it after its own borough."
You know, last year I posed a challenge to Mayor Bloomberg — I would go
on Luna Park's "Human Slingshot" if he provided me with a big
pile of his money to break my fall.
He never took me up on this offer, so this year I'm proposing another
one — I will pay the Mayor's way for as many trips on the Brooklyn Flyer as
he can handle — if he lets me take just one trip on his private
jet — a.k.a. "The Manhattan Flyer" — to Bermuda and back.
In 2011 we broke ground on the new Steeplechase Park, which will feature
the restored B&B Carousel.
And we secured funding to relight the Parachute Jump — this time with
enough "bling" to be visible from outer space — and I know we'll
be done before I leave office.
Many thanks to the New York City Economic Development Corporation under
the superb leadership of President Seth Pinsky.
I was proud to support the renovated Conservation Hall at the New York
Aquarium — and I'm not just "fishing" for compliments — you
should direct all those to Aquarium Director Jon Dohlin.
And this year, during a very special night of the annual seaside concert
series, our biggest crowd ever showed up to give Aretha
Franklin some R-E-S-P-E-C-T — and she made us feel like a "natural
borough."
Speaking of respect, I am confident that someday soon we will enjoy
summer concerts at a new amphitheater in the entertainment and amusement
capital of New York, Coney Island.
And I know that the Seaside Concert Series — as well as our Martin
Luther King Concert Series in Central Brooklyn — will continue to make
Brooklyn summers sizzle for years to come.
With all these changes, I want to give a special shout-out to a longtime
Coney establishment that believed in the neighborhood all these years —
Gargiulo's Restaurant — thank you to the Russo and DeAngelis
families.
And here's a great combination of old and new — one of Brooklyn's most
iconic restaurants and a must-see on every tourist's agenda —Tom's Diner on
Washington Avenue in Prospect Heights — announced plans to open on the
Coney Island boardwalk this season.
And I'll tell you what would be a wonderful complement to my vision of a
year-round family-friendly Coney Island — a casino —which I know will
make Mayor Dick Zigun happy.
I'm not talking about turning Coney Island into Atlantic City— (although
I look forward to setting my DVR to record the smash HBO drama, "Coney
Island Boardwalk Empire").But one casino would draw even more visitors
to Coney Island, and be a boon for local restaurants, bars, and other
establishments —while providing well-paying jobs for Coney Island
residents.
Coney's not just for visitors.
I've long urged developers to build more housing for "active
adults" — 55 and older — and I think Coney Island's "Ocean
Dreams" building,right outside Sea Gate, is a perfect candidate — the
first market-rate development in Coney Island in decades.
Factor in Coney Island Commons, soon to be the home of Brooklyn's newest
YMCA.
The newly renovated PS 188,which includes a gym for the community —
great work, Domenic!
And it's clear Coney Island has it all, except for one thing — a ferry!
For years, New York Water Taxi has moved 300,000 people annually to
attractions across the city.
In 2011, the East River Ferry began regular trips between Brooklyn, Manhattan,
and Governors Island — but let's make it easier for tourists and residents
to explore all that Brooklyn has to offer.
Let's extend service to Coney Island — and Sheepshead Bay— and the
Canarsie Pier — and of course the 69th Street Pier in Bay Ridge, something
Councilmember Vinny Gentile has been fighting for.
On the Sunset Park waterfront, we were thrilled that a deal was struck
to open Federal Building Number 2.
When it is completed next fall, this 1.1 million square foot warehouse
will be a state-of-the-art industrial center.
Very special thanks to Congressmen Nydia Velázquez and Jerry Nadler —
and Councilmember Sara González — as well as EDC and Salmar
Properties.
Finally, there was a lot to celebrate on Brooklyn's northernmost
waterfront in Greenpoint.
Although the State of New York had approved a $3 million Boathouse and
Education Center at the edge of Newtown Creek, the city was opposed to the
project.
We sided with community groups, and thanks to their efforts, the ground
floor of a former factory will become a boat basin with storage for 40 kayaks
and a nautical education center.
I want to thank Christine Holowacz — Dewey Thompson — and the
Greenpoint Waterfront Association for Parks and Planning.
One Brooklyn, One Goal: Jobs-Jobs-Jobs
Last year, Brooklyn created 18,000 jobs — but 18,000 is bupkes — for
those of you not fluent in yiddish, it means "nothing."
In Brooklyn, our unemployment is higher than the city average.
In some Brooklyn neighborhoods, one out of five adults is unemployed —
and for African-American males, the rate is over 20percent.
There is only one way out of this situation — America needs to start
making things again.
Don't get me wrong — high-tech jobs that require advanced degrees are
essential — but we also need jobs that don't require a Ph.D. — and jobs
where people can work with their hands.
America can't compete with countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and
Brazil if all we have is a service economy.
As you know, I believe Brooklyn is the perfect place for an Apple retail
store — I can't believe they're not here already!
But I'll tell you what would be even better than an Apple Store — and
that's an Apple manufacturing facility.
Apple is the largest publicly traded company in the world among the most
brilliant and most innovative.
And yet, this is a company that makes almost none of its products in the
United States.
You mean to tell me that with all the brainpower at this company, they
can't figure out a way to do the patriotic thing and keep some of those
jobs here?
And so tonight, I challenge Apple CEO Tim Cook.
If you really want to be trailblazer — bring manufacturing jobs back to
America — and start with East New York or Brownsville.
Because I'll tell you right now, those jobs will be snapped up — and
here you'll find the sharpest, hardest working employees in the world —
And once Apple is making its products here, it will be much easier for
the company to enforce the code of conduct it expects from its factories
and subcontractors over there.
IBM did it in 1968 — when they opened a factory in Bed-Stuy — and if IBM
could do it then, Apple can do it now.
And to make it that much more attractive for Apple or any other
manufacturer to bring jobs to Brooklyn, I am calling on Mayor Bloomberg and
the City of New York to designate an area in East New York or Brownsville
as a high-tech manufacturing zone.
Much in the same way that the city brought an applied science university
to Roosevelt Island, we should provide land and financial incentives to
interested companies.
I'll even put your money where my mouth is, by pledging $1 million to
get this started.
Let's bring those jobs back to America where they belong!
And let Brooklyn lead the way in rebuilding the manufacturing base that
made this country the world's economic powerhouse!
Now that would truly be a “killer app!"
We know that Brooklynites want to work and we won't rest until there
is a job for everyone.
In April we held our first Brooklyn Job Fair, along with the Brooklyn
Chamber of Commerce, led by Chairman Peter Meyer — Workforce One, a
program of Small Business Commissioner and Brooklynite Rob Walsh — Grant
Associates — and our host, Long Island University, led by Provost Gale
Steven Haynes.
(And, Peter, congratulations on your upcoming marriage to your beautiful
bride, Denise Arbesu.)
Job seekers began lining up at 6 am, four hours before the fair opened —
and by the end of the day, 5,000 people had passed through those
doors.
Now, most of us don't start at the top — we have to work our way up —
but any honest job is a good job.
Our first two guests are great examples of that.
Seven years ago, Flatlands resident Dennis Davie applied for an
entry-level job at Lowe's and started as customer service associate in the
paint department at the Gowanus store, making$10/hour.
Dennis soon became department manager, and after five more dedicated
years on the job, he was transferred to the Kings Plaza Lowe's, where he is
now assistant store manager — just one step away from the top job, where
the real "moolah" is!
Dennis proves that working hard in an entry-level job can really pay
off.
Ladies and gentlemen, Dennis Davie!
Here's another success story.
In 2004, Ditmas Park resident William Cardona joined the second avenue
Lowes in Gowanus, working as a cashier while going to school — like Dennis,
making $10/hour.
And in the next five years, he went from customer service — to receiving
— to the human resources department.
In mid-January, William was made area human resources manager, with
responsibility for 11 stores!
Congratulations on your great success — what a career! — please
welcome William Cardona!
In addition to helping people find jobs, I want to give them the means
to realize their dreams.
At last year's State of the Borough I announced that we were setting
aside funding for a food business incubator in an economically challenged
Central Brooklyn neighborhood, in partnership with EDC — thank you, Seth.
This incubator will provide culinary entrepreneurs with the tools,
equipment, and workspace that they would otherwise not be able to afford.
And so tonight I am thrilled to announce that the city has designated
3rd Ward to run and operate our incubator.
The organization has a proven track record in running a
multi-disciplinary workspace and education center.
Many thanks to 3rd Ward Executive Director Jason Goodman and President
Matthew Blesso.
To improve the economic prospects of Central Brooklyn, we need to make
sure that communities are secure in other ways.
I believe that one way to strengthen these neighborhoods is to transform
armories into community centers.
We've partnered with NYU's Capstone Team — and will form a community
task force —to look at ways to adapt the Armory at Bedford Avenue and Union
Street in Crown Heights.
In May, the team will issue a report that will recommend specific uses,
based on feedback from the community.
Just two weeks ago, over 300local residents brought their ideas to a
town hall meeting and tour hosted by my office, along with Councilmember
Tish James.
And tonight I'm proud to announce that I am pledging one million dollars
in capital funds for the Bedford-Union Armory — so that we can get the ball
rolling and give Crown Heights the community center it so richly deserves.
A place for families, and especially kids, who will have an alternative
to the streets.
After years of effort by CHARM and Sandy Taggart, we anticipate that
work will soon begin on efforts to adapt the Bedford-Atlantic Armory, as
well.
And we're continuing to work with Councilmember Al Vann and the
Department of Homeless Services on efforts to transform the Sumner Avenue
Armory in Bed-Stuy.
The Park Slope Armory has already proven how much a renovated armory can
add to a neighborhood —and there is no reason that each of these other
armories shouldn't have the same amenities.
Transforming these armories is an example of how I believe government
can help strengthen neighborhoods —but we can't do it alone — which is why
governments working with churches and faith-based organizations is so
important.
I want to be clear. I do believe in the separation of church and
state. But I fully believe in the union of church and family.
Children who are brought up in the church, who are grounded in the
belief of a power greater than themselves develop positive values, a sense
of dignity, respect for themselves and others and understand the importance
of family and community.
Children who are grounded in that higher power won't devalue other
children by bullying.
Children who are raised to cherish the value of life will reach for a
book instead of a gun.
I want to commend Brooklyn DA Charles Hynes for the recent arrest of 43
gang members suspected of crimes from murder to robbery. The DA's office
was acting on intelligence gathered in conjunction with community members
—including members of my office's Brownsville Task Force.
This is the best way —the only way — to reduce violent crime in Central
Brooklyn — members of the community coming forward and cooperating with
police and law enforcement.
Special thanks to Councilmember Darlene Mealy — and for consistently
advocating for gun control, we also thank Mayor Bloomberg.
A moment ago, I talked about the importance of manufacturing jobs. But,
high-tech jobs will define the future.
I want to congratulate the Mayor for his vision in bringing an applied
sciences university – a collaborative project between Cornell University
and Technion Israel.
But why stop there? — surely the "Greatest City in the World"
could use more than one applied sciences school.
And I can't think of a better place than 370 Jay Street in Downtown
Brooklyn for NYU Polytech to build such a facility.
370 Jay has been a vacant blight on the neighborhood for too long, and
it's high time we changed that — Have confidence in Deputy Mayor Robert
Steel — I know he'll get it done.
(I also want to congratulate NYU Poly on their recent expansion at
MetroTech.)
This was indeed another great year for Downtown Brooklyn.
I want to welcome the new President of the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership,
Tucker Reed.
And I want to thank outgoing President Joe Chan for his years of service
and also congratulate him for joining the Empire State Development
Corporation, which is headed by Brooklyn's own — and my long-lost twin
— Ken Adams.
I'd also like to thank my dear friend Mike Weiss for his many years of
service to the MetroTech BID.
When it came to the Municipal Building at 210 Joralemon Street, this was
the year we got the ball rolling on making it a prime retail shopping
destination when it opens in 2014.
Congratulations to Al Laboz and United American Land — and many thanks
to New York City Deputy Mayor Steel once again for helping to make this
project a reality.
And Downtown continues to be transformed by the new stores and
businesses that are here or coming soon, including Aeropostale — Planet
Fitness — H&M — Panera Bread — TJ Maxx — and of course my favorite,
Shake Shack. As far as I'm concerned, the best thing about Shake Shack is
that I can see it from my office window. And the worst thing about Shake
Shack is that I can see it from my office window — tempting me, every day!
I mean, on one end of Fulton Mall there's Junior's — and on the other
side, Shake Shack! What's a guy that looks like me to do?
Seriously, though, what I'm really awed by is the sheer number of new
arrivals —especially younger folks — who are moving to Downtown in droves.
Of course businesses like Shake Shack are coming to Brooklyn —they're
just following their customers!
After all, Downtown Brooklyn does have more college students than
Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Just look at what the new arrivals have done with Dekalb Market, up the
block from Junior's.
Many of Brooklyn's great artists and artisans display their wares in
salvaged shipping containers.
Let me tell you —in my day, getting something "off the back of the
truck" had a slightly different meaning!
Everywhere you look in Brooklyn, you'll find innovative businesses on
the cutting edge — like American Stock Transfer and Trust Company, which
provides comprehensive stock transfer and employee plan services for over
2,800public companies.
I was proud to join Councilmember David Greenfield at AST's 40th
anniversary celebration and ribbon-cutting for their new Borough Park
headquarters —providing jobs for more than 350 Brooklynites and New
Yorkers.
The Brooklyn neighborhood that is truly leading New York into the 21st
century is of course DUMBO —where you'll find the most innovative internet
and digital advertising companies in the city.
I know they're brilliant because when I visit them, they'll spend an
hour telling me what their company does — and when I leave, I think
"what did they just say?"
Huge, inc., an all-purpose interactive digital and marketing company, is
DUMBO's largest local employer —and 60 percent of its 300 employees live in
Brooklyn.
Companies like JetBlue, IKEA, and PepsiCo tap Huge for extra help in
research, design, and technology.
Shirley Au, president of Huge, is with us tonight.
Please welcome Shirley Au!
Here's a business I do understand.
Downtown Brooklyn resident Tina Roth Eisenberg is another outstanding
DUMBO entrepreneur, who has combined her eye for design with the power of
the internet.
Tattly, the business she founded, designs and sells hip temporary
tattoos, and does business with more than 60 countries, and more than
125,000 tattoos have already been shipped.
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Tina Roth Eisenberg.
One Brooklyn, One Destination
After years of struggle and false starts, 2012 is the year that the
Barclays Center will really come to fruition.
With the new arena nearly complete, it's clear this area will be the hub
of a new city center, creating the jobs in and around the arena that we
desperately need.
For an old-timer like me, it feels like Brooklyn has gone "Back to
the Future" —to the days when Downtown was teeming with nightclubs and
dancing halls — when we rocked — and rolled — our way to the Fox Theatre,
the Paramount, and back.
I can't wait to sit in the arena watching the Brooklyn Nets mop up the
floor with the "Manhattan Knicks."
And I'm filled with hope that the nets will get Dwight Howard, someone I
really "look up to!"
In fact, my ultimate dream would be Dwight Howard on the Nets —
and Neil Diamond and Barbara Streisand on stage.
Events already booked at Barclays include the ice capades, the Ringling
Brothers Circus, Andrea Bocelli, and a monster truck show.
I couldn't be prouder that the first show will be Brooklyn's own, the
pride of Bed-Stuy, the man who wrote the "Blueprint" for success,
Jay-Z.
By the way, we all send our congratulations to Jay-Z and Beyonce on the
birth of their daughter, Blue Ivy.
And I am delighted to say that for one night this October, Barclays will
host the first ever NHL game in Brooklyn when the New Jersey Devils and the
New York Islanders meet in a pre-season match up.
Of course, if I had it my way….
[Graphic of Brooklyn Islanders]
The Barclay's Center is yet another example of how much Brooklyn
continues to grow into a world-class city, earning raves as a tourist
destination worldwide — from Israel to Australia.
In fact, in 2012 the Travel Channel will finally hit the big time — when
it airs the show "Slice of Brooklyn," hosted by Tony Muia, based
on his "Slice of Brooklyn" bus tour.
Is it any wonder that hip, exciting hotels continue to open their doors,
including the Hotel Williamsburg, the Aloft, and the Sheraton Brooklyn New
York.
And coming soon: the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg, the Hotel BPM in
Sunset Park, and the 718 in Downtown Brooklyn, which will include a
restaurant helmed by Harold Dieterle, winner of the first season of “Top
Chef" — and in Borough Park, a new "kosher" hotel, The
Clarion.
Of course, it was the Brooklyn Marriott that started it all.
Our cultural attractions rival those of any city in the world — and I'm
thrilled to support them.
From the Brooklyn Museum, the second largest art museum in the city
—thank you, Director Arnold Lehman.
To the Brooklyn Children's Museum, helmed by Georgina Ngozi.
To the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, which plans to open a new visitors
center and café in the spring— congratulations, President Scot
Medbury.
And of course, the largest non-profit in Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Public
Library —congratulations to Linda Johnson, who was officially made
President and CEO —and Board Chair Anthony Crowell. And that's just to name
a few.
Don't forget the beautiful and historic Green-Wood Cemetery, a tourist
attraction so popular that people are "dying to get in."
Congratulations to President Rich Moylan, who has probably heard that joke
a million times if he's heard it once.
Or the Weeksville Heritage Center, founded in 1838, just eleven years
after the abolition of slavery in New York, Weeksville was a vibrant
community, a haven for free African-Americans.
The Weeksville center is set to open its new education building in 2013,
which I was proud to support —and there is no better way to learn about the
roots of Brooklyn's African-American community — the largest in the nation
for any county that isn't also its own city.
Congratulations to Executive Director Pam Green, who has done a
wonderful job carrying on the legacy of Joan Maynard, of blessed memory.
And for doing so much to support Brooklyn's arts and culture
organizations, we thank Heart of Brooklyn — and we bid a fond farewell to
Executive Director Ellen Saltpeter.
Our beautiful Brooklyn Bridge Park was named one of the coolest tourist
attractions in the world by Travel and Leisure magazine —and one of the 15
places in the world to see right now by Conde Nast Traveler.
Bravo, Regina Myer —as always, it took a woman to get it done
right!
The new centerpiece of the park is the beautiful 1920's-era carousel.
Restoring it took 30 years —truly a labor of love on the part of Jane
Walentas —Jane, all of Brooklyn thanks you.
Hey, I've always said Brooklyn is a place so exciting it will make your
head spin.
Brooklyn is the greenest borough in the city —everywhere you look
there's a beautiful park.
To take just one example out of many, there's Lindower Park Playground
and Pool in Mill Basin— many thanks to Councilmember Lew Fidler for his
work supporting its renovation.
And if you didn't think that the granddaddy of them all, Prospect Park,
could become any more gorgeous, just wait until the Lakeside facility opens
a year from now, featuring two new skating rinks.
Congratulations, Prospect Park Alliance President Emily Lloyd and
Brooklyn Parks Commissioner Kevin Jeffrey.
Another reason tourists flock to Brooklyn is for our world-class
restaurant scene —which we will once again celebrate with the 2012 Dine in
Brooklyn promotion from March 19th to March 29th.
In 2011, Brooklyn became even more of a foodie paradise.
The Chef's Table at Brooklyn Fare on Livingston Street earned an extra
Michelin star, making it the first three-starred Michelin restaurant in
Brooklyn —one of only seven in the city — and one of only 104 worldwide.
Three stars are nice, but there's an honor that truly makes me
"flush."
With pride, that is!
Habana Outpost in Fort Greene was a finalist for "America's Best
Restroom," as chosen by "Zagat's."
And finally, whether they say tomato or toe-mah-toe, whether you're a
restaurateur or just a connoisseur, only in Brooklyn can you find the
freshest tomatoes — even in the dead of winter — from Lucky's Real Tomatoes
in Greenpoint.
Congratulations to Lucky Lee!
One Brooklyn, One Art
There is no question that Brooklyn is the artistic and creative
epicenter of the nation — with more artists, writers, musicians, actors,
and dancers than anywhere in the
country.
The most exciting arts-related news in 2011 was the continued evolution
of the BAM Cultural District — thank you to Deputy Mayor Patty Harris for
making this a priority.
The centerpiece, of course, is BAM itself — the nation's oldest
performing arts center —and we want to wish them a happy 150th anniversary—
congratulations, Karen Brooks-Hopkins.
I was proud to support the greatest birthday present BAM could have
given itself —the nearly-completed 250-seat Richard B. Fisher Building,
which will open its doors in September.
By the way, BAM currently features Academy-Award winning actor Kevin
Spacey in a production of "Richard III" — and for the first time
will host performances by the New York City Opera.
The district will get a major upgrade with a beautifully renovated
building that houses both BRIC, whose innovative programs include the BCAT
TV Network and the Celebrate Brooklyn Summer Concert Series in Prospect
Park, and Urban Glass, the first "artist-access” glass center in the
U.S.—and now the largest.
Congratulations to BRIC Executive Director Leslie Schultz and Urban
Glass Executive Director Dawn Bennett.
Down the block, we welcomed the Theater for a New Audience, one of the
nation's most revered Shakespeare companies, which, after 30 years in Manhattan,
broke ground on a new home in Brooklyn that will be completed next year.
Congratulations to President and Founding Artistic Director Jeffrey
Horowitz and Managing Director Dorothy Ryan.
As Shakespeare put it, "some are born great, some achieve
greatness, and some have Brooklyn thrust upon them."
(I know I'm paraphrasing, but I'm sure that's what Shakespeare would say
if he were alive today!)
Another new arrival from across the east river to Atlantic Avenue:
Roulette, which is both an innovative performance space and an excellent
place to enjoy a good glass of wine.
And we want to congratulate St. Ann's Warehouse — which announced that
it would remain right where it belongs — DUMBO, Brooklyn, USA.
Kudos to Artistic Director Susan Feldman.
Finally, I've been proud to support legendary Brooklyn avant-garde
performance space Issue Project Room in Downtown Brooklyn — a lot of their
productions are "beyond me," but they're all further proof that
Brooklyn has something for everyone.
One "Word": Brooklyn
Of course, we remain the destination of choice for the world's greatest
writers, editors, and illustrators — no wonder the new issue of Conde
Nast Traveler has an eight-page spread on literary Brooklyn.
That's why the artistic achievement we're most proud of is our very own
Brooklyn Book Festival, a huge tourist attraction that draws booklovers
worldwide.
In its 6th year, the festival was bigger and better than ever — with 270
authors from around the world, along with160 literary organizations and
booksellers — many thanks to the Brooklyn Literary Council and Chair Johnny
Temple.
We also expanded the festival-related literary "bookend"
events that took place throughout the borough, from Dyker Heights to
Williamsburg to Bushwick to right here in
Flatbush.
The Book Festival isn't the only evidence that Brooklyn is the city's
most literary borough.
We are all brimming with pride that a Brooklynite has been chosen by
Urban Word NYC and the City of New York to be New York's Youth Poet
Laureate.
Ishmael Islam of Bed-Stuy is a filmmaker, graphic artist, hip-hop
musician, a student at Kingsborough Community College — and of course a
poet.
We are delighted that Ish is here to read a poem he wrote just for
tonight.
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the New York City Youth Poet
Laureate for 2012, Ishmael Islam.
[Ishmael reads poem]
Thank you, Ish.
When the latest round of Pulitzer Prizes was announced last year, we
discovered that of the 29individuals who were given this national award,
six live right here in Brooklyn.
And I thought I knew everything about our borough, but I think it's time
we put up signs that say “Welcome to Brooklyn, Editor Capital of New York
City" —
Because the number of top editors of national magazines living in
Brooklyn continues to grow.
Residents like Rosemary Ellis from "Good Housekeeping," Cindy
Allen from "Interior Design," Steve Tignor from “Tennis
Magazine," Adi Ignatius from "Harvard Business Review,"
Richard Nalley from "Forbes Life."
And of course, Chris Napolitano, former Editorial Director and current
Editor-at-Large for “Playboy," a magazine I read for the
articles about Brooklyn.
No, I can't lie — I look at the pictures —what man of my generation
can resist the "cheesecake"?
Some of Brooklyn's esteemed magazine editors are here tonight — Jon Dahl
from "Smart Money," Elizabeth Pochoda from “Magazine
Antiques," Cynthia Levy from "Glamour," Ann Fulenwider of
"Bride Magazine," Jill Herzig of "Redbook," Robert
Safian from "Fast Company," Pilar Guzman from "Martha
Stewart Living," and my dear friend Tom Matthews from "Wine
Spectator."
Please stand —and thank you all for making Brooklyn the Editorial
Capital of New York City.
One Brooklyn, One Home
In 2011 Travel and Leisure magazine told us what we
Brooklynites already knew — when it named Brooklyn Heights to its list of
the Ten Most Beautiful Neighborhoods in America.
We couldn't be prouder that one of Brooklyn's oldest neighborhoods — and
"America's First Suburb" — received this honor.
Congratulations to the Brooklyn Heights Association and Executive
Director Judy Stanton —who also serves as Borough Hall's unofficial
"Commissioner of Taste."
And just last month, the Historic Districts Council named Bay Ridge to
its list of "distinctive communities" for 2012.
But the truth is, every Brooklyn neighborhood is beautiful.
I challenge any city in the country to show me a neighborhood as lovely
as Victorian Flatbush.
But with our success —now that the whole world is flocking to Brooklyn —
some neighborhoods are in danger of becoming unaffordable — and I want to
make sure Brooklyn remains home to every income level.
That's why I've always made it one of my office's primary goals to
encourage affordable housing projects –working alongside City Council
Housing Chair Eric Dilan and Councilmember Charles Barron.
I want to highlight a few we were proud to support that opened recently
The Providence House in Bed-Stuy, The Schermerhorn House in Boerum Hill
—which also serves as a headquarters and performance space for the Brooklyn
Ballet.
The Red Hook Homes — and CAMBA Gardens on the Kings County Hospital
Campus. I also want to praise Dumont Green in East New York, the first
affordable housing development in New York City to feature solar energy.
And because we want to make sure that every unit of affordable housing
is preserved, I want to take a moment to thank our Mitchell-Lama Task
Force, led by Williamsburg resident Miss Dealice Fuller.
This year the task force conducted a borough-wide "State of
Mitchell-Lama Housing" survey.
The results are in, and the report is coming soon — but one conclusion I
can tell you right now: the Mitchell-Lama program continues to be the best
form of affordable housing in New York, with more than 30,000 housing units
in Brooklyn alone.
Finally, I want to thank my staff for spending a day with Habitat for
Humanity, helping to build affordable housing in Brownsville— a project I
was proud to support.
Many thanks to Josh Lockwood from Habitat.
One Brooklyn, for All Brooklynites
Making our "one Brooklyn" as strong as it can be means
advocating for all Brooklynites — which is why I'm particularly proud of
programs we support for younger residents as well as those of a
"mature-r" persuasion.
Our Summer H.E.A.T. program helps local teens secure six-week summer
jobs — besides putting money in their pocket, the program teaches the value
of good work habits, such as being punctual and dressing for success.
And once again this year, our Camp Brooklyn program helped send more
than400 kids to summer sleep-away camp. Many thanks to Debra Garcia.
And of course we once again held our "Take Your Man to the
Doctor" and "Lighten Up Brooklyn" campaigns.
You know, I often joke about how I fall off the wagon with my diet — but
the truth is, losing weight can be a matter of life and death — and for
many of us not fortunate enough to be genetically predisposed to being
thin, it's a lifelong fight.
East New York resident Pedro Gomez, Jr. has always struggled with his
weight — in fact, by the time he was ten he tipped the scales at 200
pounds.
The more he weighed, the more he turned to food for comfort— eventually
reaching more than 400 pounds.
In 2006, one day after his 34th birthday, Pedro joined a Weight Watchers
meeting in Starrett City.
Today, Pedro avoids fast food, packs his own healthy lunch, snacks on
apples and oranges, drinks plenty of water and hits the gym after work.
So here he is – down 230pounds and 26 pant sizes – the new Pedro Gomez,
Jr.!
What an inspiration he is — Pedro, thank you for giving us hope!
Now, as someone who officially entered the "Medicare Club" in
2010, I believe more than ever that there is no better place than Brooklyn
to spend the best years of your life.
That's why I've fought against any cuts to Brooklyn's senior centers — a
battle we fight every year.
And I continued to do everything I can to promote the rights of those
with disabilities —including providing training for businesses and city
agencies — and publishing a resource guide to hiring people with
disabilities. Many thanks to Sarah Ain and Debra Grief.
I am sad to say that among hospitals in New York State, Brooklyn has
more than its fair share of institutions facing dire financial difficulties.
We are all for looking at ways to make healthcare delivery better and
more efficient —but we will oppose any decrease in services.
Not only are hospitals among Brooklyn's largest employers, they provide
critical medical services in neighborhoods that desperately need them.
When it comes to education, we continue to fight against any attempts by
the city to close public schools, except as a last resort.
I am outraged that the city would even consider closing schools that
have recently seen test scores rise substantially — and that have received
A's and B's on progress reports.
And thank you to all the teachers in Brooklyn who teach in challenging
situations —and even take money out of your own pocket to cover the cost of
supplies — I want you to know how much Brooklynites support you.
We published the first-ever Brooklyn Parent Help Guide, which gives
parents advice on navigating the often-confusing public school system.
They're available in the lobby tonight —please pick one up on your way out.
You know, when I was growing up, the Golden Gate Motel in Sheepshead Bay
was not exactly a "family-friendly” hotel — it specialized in
"half-day rates," if you catch my drift.
Well, from illicit fornication to primary education — a true Brooklyn
success story is born.
The former Golden Gate Motel now houses the award-winning Brooklyn Amity
School, sponsored by Brooklyn's Turkish community, which as we all know is
the largest Turkish population in the country.
Congratulations to principal Gengis Karabekmez —and many thanks to
Councilmember Mike Nelson.
I've been proud over the years to support "Out 2 Play" and its
efforts to rejuvenate public school playgrounds.
Thanks to them, last year alone 21 schools received new playgrounds,
from Bushwick to Sunset Park.
Many thanks to Executive Director Andrea Wenner.
For 16 years, Greenpoint resident Melvin Martinez has coached the
baseball team at Grand Street Campus High in Bushwick — where he tells his
players they are "scholar athletes"—to drive home the importance
of education.
In fact, since 2002, 90percent of his graduating seniors have received
partial or full scholarships to college — some have even gone on to play in
the majors —and I know that this makes Councilmember Diana Reyna, who's a
big supporter of this school, very proud.
As if all that didn't keep him busy enough, Melvin also serves as
Assistant Principal at PS 257 in Williamsburg.
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome a true educator, Melvin Martinez!
One Brooklyn, One Love
The poets and the prophets all agree — love is love — and every day,
Brooklyn is filled with inspiring love stories.
Of course, the most inspiring story this year was New York State finally
recognizing the legality of same-sex marriages — for supporting this issue,
we thank Governor Cuomo, Mayor Bloomberg, Council Speaker Christine Quinn,
and most of the Brooklyn delegation to the New York State Legislature.
Beginning on the first day same-sex marriages were performed, we
arranged for two days of ceremonies at Borough Hall.
Just as love is love — family values are family values — something we
really take to heart in Brooklyn, which has one of the largest LGBT
populations in the country — and the largest lesbian population in the New
York Metro Area.
Downtown Brooklyn residents and newly-weds, Sasha Griffing and Paula
Dunn, are here with us tonight!
Sasha and Paula have been together for 19 years.
And the reason they got married this past July is very simple—they
finally could!
During their long relationship, the women bought a home and had a family
together—they're proud parents to seven-year-old Dylan, and Kaya, who is
six.
The couple looks at their long "engagement" as a blessing in a
way — because by the time they did marry, both their kids could attend the
wedding and the honeymoon!
Please welcome newlyweds Sasha Griffing and Paula Dunn — with their
children Dylan and Kaya!
Many young women dream about their wedding day and Crown Heights
resident Crystal Fluker was one of them.
But when she and her sweetheart Ernest decided to marry twenty years
ago, it was a quick trip to the City Clerk's office, since Ernest was in
the military and was shipping out to Saudi Arabia for the Persian Gulf War
the very next day.
For the next two decades life got in the way— and they never had a
chance to enjoy a traditional ceremony.
Crystal and Ernest recently celebrated their marriage in a full-blown
wedding, along with a fabulous reception for 50 guests at Morton's The
Steakhouse in Brooklyn—even a wedding night suite at the Brooklyn Bridge
Marriott!
Thank you to Morton's and its GM Joe Roken — as well as the Daily
News, which sponsored the contest.
Ladies and gentlemen. Meet the Flukers — Crystal and Ernest!
Every year, Jamie and I are proud to host Brooklyn couples who have been
married 50 years or more at a special Valentine's Day Sweethearts
Celebration.
(This year is no exception — we'll be holding our celebration at El
Caribe on February 13th.)
Tonight, one such couple is joining us.
Bay Ridge residents Ruth and Martin Spencer grew up together — seventy
years after tying the knot, they're still together!
At 91, Martin still works in Manhattan and Ruth— well at 90 years
young—she's become a real techie—she recently got an iPad and can be found
most nights surfing away as Martin watches television.
Ladies and gentlemen please welcome Brooklyn sweethearts Ruth and Martin
Spencer!
Every summer, South Williamsburg residents Amy Yee and her fiancé
Michael Treff visit the Red Hook Vendors, where they enjoy food from the
food trucks at bargain prices that are muy delicioso!
So when it came time to plan their wedding, it hit them — why not hire
food trucks to cater it?
Amy and Michael arranged for their 100 or so guests to enjoy dumplings,
schnitzels and huraraches freshly made from three different gourmet food
trucks.
The guests were happy and Amy and Michael didn't have to go into debt to
feed them.
Talk about starting your marriage with a truckload of good fortune!
Please welcome Amy Yee and Michael Treff!
Of Blessed Memory
With all we have to celebrate in Brooklyn, we also pause to recall those
we lost this past year.
Visionary leaders like Governor Hugh Carey, a Park Slope resident who
served Brooklyn's 12thand 15th Congressional Districts for fourteen years
before serving two terms as Governor of our state.
Community activists like attorney Murray Adams, who was known as
"the Lion of Cobble Hill", for his tireless record of service.
Murray Adams was, of course, father to Ken Adams, head of the Empire State
Development Corporation.
Brooklyn mourns the loss of cultural treasures like musician Olga Bloom,
creator of Bargemusic, a floating stage at the Fulton Ferry Landing near
River Café — where since 1977 — iconic views of Manhattan are the backdrop
for live chamber music.
Dr. Joseph Cunningham was Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives
at Maimonides Medical Center, long time Chair of the Department of Surgery,
and one of the most renowned cardiothoracic surgeons in the country.
Norman Henry was the owner of Henry House Catering Hall in Crown Heights
and a founding member of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and
Industry.
We lost Marie Louis, the Chief Operating Officer of Build and an active
member of Community Board 8, at much too young an age.
Dr. Marco Mason was a founding member of the Caribbean Women's Health
Association, Chair and CEO of the Panamanian Council of New York and a
tireless advocate for the Caribbean American community.
Senator Christopher Mega, a former Presiding Judge on the Court of
Claims who I served with in the New York State Senate, representing Bay
Ridge and Southern Brooklyn with distinction.
Senior Bishop Landon Penn was the founder and pastor of Universal Temple
Church and a Brownsville community activist with four decades of service.
We lost dedicated Brooklynite Ellen Smalls, who was President of Key
Women of America, Brooklyn Branch.
Duke Snider, one of baseball's greatest, and a beloved Brooklyn Dodger
who helped beat the dreaded Yankees in the 1955 World Series!
And Hazel Younger, dedicated Chair of Community Board 16.
Of course all Brooklynites send their sincerest condolences to the family
of police officer Peter Figoski, a 22-year veteran of the New York City
Police department who gave his life protecting residents of the 75th
Precinct in East New York and Cypress Hills.
As well as the family of Alain Schaberger, a 10-year NYPD veteran, and a
U.S. Navy veteran, who was tragically killed in the line of duty.
We also remember a Brooklyn marine who made the ultimate sacrifice for
our nation.
Lance Corporal Jabari N. Thompson of Brownsville died of wounds
sustained while conducting combat operations in Afghanistan.
We have with us tonight Lance Corporal Thompson's grandparents, Daphne
Taylor, John Taylor, and Icelyn Thompson.
And onstage, his fiancé, Shamaya Lewis.
Will you all please stand?
All of Brooklyn mourns your loss and we thank you from the bottom of our
hearts for Lance Corporal Thompson's heroic service to America.
All of Brooklyn mourns your loss — and we thank you from the bottom of
our hearts for your fiancé's heroic service to America.
Now let's have a moment of silence in remembrance of these and other
Brooklynites we lost this past year.
Brooklyn Characters
In a borough of more than 2.5million, making sure that the streets are
clean, that businesses run smoothly and that we're all safe is a huge job,
and—for the most part—the city workforce provides phenomenal services and
we're grateful for their tireless work.
But sometimes the miles of red tape—and the lack of common sense—wears
the average resident down!
Look at the case of Bed-Stuy resident Patrick Beberfield, for example.
One night recently Patrick took a break from helping his wife, Regina,
in the kitchen.
Taking in the night air, he walked across the street to a park, sat
down, and pulled out a Bible to read.
A police cruiser pulled up and Patrick was questioned for being in the
park after closing — he was frisked and checked for a criminal record—which
came up clean.
Despite his story, despite his Bible, despite the fact that he was in
his own neighborhood and clearly doing no harm, Patrick was issued a
summons.
Now, what about common sense?
What about a little understanding?
What about a warning instead of a ticket?
Here's another tale that drives us nuts!
Pietro Iuni has been a tailor since he was 14-years-old, when he learned
the trade from his father back in Italy.
Since 1964, Pietro has had a small shop in Bensonhurst in a building he
owns, and lives with his wife in the apartment above it.
Not long ago, a man walked into Pietro's shop and began asking questions
about prices — how much Pietro charged to hem trousers, alter a suit— (or,
in my case, let out some pants) —and so forth.
After Pietro answered his questions, the man revealed that he was from
Consumer Affairs — and that Pietro was violating the law by not having a
posted price list and return policy — then he slapped Pietro with a hefty
fine!
Again I ask you—why not just a warning?
After all, this was the first time Pietro had ever been visited by
Consumer Affairs.
Why not give a small businesslike that the chance to make it right?
Instead of nickel-and-diming hard-working Brooklynites and New Yorkers,
let's vow to treat our residents and small businesses with respect in 2012.
Patrick Beberfield and Pietro Iuni —please stand!
Anyone who has to fight their way through red tape might be tempted to
have a nice stiff drink.
Steve Hindy and Brooklyn Brewery have already led the renaissance of
brewing beer in Brooklyn — and these days, Brooklyn is also home to a
growing number of distilleries and distributors of the best vodka, gin and
whiskey this side of the Mason-Dixon.
There's the New York Distilling Company in Williamsburg, Kings County
Distillery in Bushwick, the Brueckelen Distilling Company in Sunset Park.
And here with us tonight, Brooklyn Republic Vodka!
Bensonhurst resident Gary Shokin made frequent trips to Eastern Europe,
which spurred his interest in vodka — so when he wanted to start a new
venture, he thought, why not a small-batch vodka operation?
He asked his daughter, Kary Laskin, a Park Slope resident, to team up
with him for a small family business.
The result was Brooklyn Republic Vodka, blended in Clinton Hill.
Tonight I am pleased to toast the father and daughter team of Gary
Shokin and Kary Laskin!
Our next guest is a real renaissance woman!
Bed-Stuy resident Marie-Yolaine Eusebe climbed the corporate ladder at
American Express— created a financial freedom workshop to help people get
out of debt—and is an actor who has even performed at the Kennedy Center in
Washington, D.C..
But after the devastating2010 earthquake in Haiti, she wanted to make a
more lasting impact in the country where she was born.
She resigned from American Express and founded Brooklyn-based
Community2Community, an organization that helps Haitian communities
rebuild.
For the helping hand she extends to our Haitian brothers and sisters in
need, we are proud to honor Marie-Yolaine Eusebe.
Brooklyn is the land where legends are made and dreams come true— even
if sometimes it takes a while for those dreams to be realized.
84-year-old George Weiss of Old Mill Basin earned his living as a
wallpaper-hanger — but his true passion was coming up with interesting
inventions.
From a new kind of child-proof medicine bottle to intricate Christmas
tree ornaments — George's brain has produced a storm of interesting ideas
over the years.
But despite filing for hundreds of patents, George never found anyone
willing to bankroll his ideas — until now.
Dabble, a three-dimensional word game George created, is now on sale
from retailers coast to coast.
For proving that dreams can come true, no matter what your age, all of
us salute George Weiss.
Our next guest is the longest serving principal in the United States —
someone who believes "old school" is the "only school."
For the past 48 years, Madeleine Brennan has been the revered principal
at Dyker Heights Intermediate School 201.
The school boasts "A" marks on the city's progress reports,
has an annual musical, five bands—you heard one of them here tonight—and
the hallways are always spotless.
There is no secret to getting along with Mrs. Brennan.
If you're a male teacher, you must wear a tie.
If you're a female teacher, you’re better off wearing a skirt, not
pants.
And if you're a Borough President speaking at graduation, be brief — be
short and be gone!
Take it from me — if she were running the show tonight, we'd all be at
the reception by now.
For her ongoing service as an inspiration to kids and educators
alike—we're proud to honor Mrs. Madeleine Brennan!
Speaking of being inspired, Bed-Stuy resident James Black Jr. may only
be 13-years-old, but he's already an intellectual giant when it comes to
the game of chess!
James learned how to play chess when he was just 7-years-old and has led
the chess team at IS 318 in Williamsburg to championships many times since.
Even more remarkable, James recently earned the title of Chess Master!
Less than 2 percent of the 77,000 members of the U.S. Chess Federation
are masters and just 13 of those are under the age of 14.
James wants to become the youngest person to achieve U.S. Grandmaster,
the highest title a chess player can achieve in America!
Please welcome James Black Jr.!
Creative businesses are sprouting all over Brooklyn, so when the White House
went looking for someone to transform the East Room for Christmas, they
tapped Park Slope resident Emily Thompson.
Emily made giant garlands of fresh pine and magnolia, built miniature
mountain ranges out of rocks, and created elegant gardens covered in moss.
There was even a replica of Bo, the Presidential dog, made out of
pinecones!
Please welcome the woman who turned the White House green, Emily
Thompson!
Our next special guest is returning to Brooklyn College, after
graduating just last year with a theater degree.
Williamsburg native Justiin Davis has been acting since the age of3,
proving his chops recently in films like The Taking of Pelham 1-2-3 and
in shows like The Good Wife and Law and Order, among
others.
This year Justiin won the role of a lifetime when he joined the cast of
HBO's Boardwalk Empire.
And even with his busy life, Justiin has created an arts program for
inner city school kids—and that's no act!
Please welcome Justiin Davis!
The Presidential Scholars in the Arts program is presented on behalf of
the President of the United States to the top high school artists in the
nation for their superior academic and artistic achievement.
There are only 20 given across the country — and, no surprise, one hails
from Brooklyn!
Brownsville resident India Carney is a mega-talented singer —from opera
to pop.
A graduate of Fiorello Laguardia High School—where she starred in
productions like Hairspray and A Chorus Line— India is
now a performing arts student at UCLA.
Please welcome 2011 U.S. Presidential Scholar India Carney!
Our next guest is proof that when it comes to the saying "waste not
want not" she's putting her money where her mouth is.
East New York resident Etta Dixon was one of the first Brooklynites to
install solar panels.
At 79, Miss Dixon is proof that age is just a number!
So for being ahead of the pack and for her can-do attitude that is
always on the Sunnyside, we are proud to honor Etta Dixon!
Downtown Brooklyn residents Jeff Grzybowski and his daughter, seven-year-old
Angelina, were riding the L train last July, when Foster McGinty got off,
leaving his prized Fender Stratocaster guitar behind.
When the train took off, father and daughter noticed the abandoned
guitar and watched as McGinty stood helpless on the platform, suddenly
realizing he'd left his guitar on the train.
Fortunately, Jeff and Angelina turned over the guitar to police, and
McGinty tracked it down.
McGinty was so happy he offered Angelina a $1,500 reward, which will go
toward her college fund.
Please welcome good Samaritans— Angelina and Jeff
Grzybowski!
If only more of us were like our next guest, Richard Schissler.
Since the early eighties, Richard has been donating blood whenever he
can and by now, he's made more than350 donations!
A Sheepshead Bay resident employed by National Grid, Richard has a
simple reason for giving so much—it saves lives!
Thank you, Richard, for being the lifeblood of Brooklyn — and
encouraging all of us to give blood!
Please welcome Richards Schissler!
In 2005, Borough Park resident Alex Rapaport had a simple idea— to give
those in need a nourishing kosher meal—free of charge, five days a
week.
From that vision, Masbia —Brooklyn's first and only kosher soup kitchen
was born.
Since opening in Borough Park, Masbia has served more than 400,000
kosher meals to men, women and children in need— and has opened three
additional centers in Flatbush, Williamsburg and Rego Park, Queens.
When so many New Yorkers are finding it hard to make ends meet, Masbia
is providing a critical safety net.
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Co-founder and Executive Director,
Alex Rapaport!
Sabrina Scott just wanted to get home from a long day at work when
someone pushed her onto the subway tracks— but luckily, Bushwick resident
Derrick Oakes was standing nearby.
When the attacker ran off, Derrick rushed to the edge of the platform
and pulled Sabrina to safety – never stopping to think a train could come
barreling into the station at any moment.
But after saving her life, Derrick did what many heroes seem to do, he
disappeared!
The two were reunited when Derrick visited her at the hospital, where
she was recovering from her injuries.
We are so grateful that both of them are with us here tonight.
Please welcome Sabrina Scott, and her hero—and ours— Derrick Oakes.
We have another Brooklyn hero here tonight!
Crown Heights resident Anthony Presley was like any other hardworking
Brooklynite, waiting to pick up his car from an auto body shop in Bed-Stuy
when all hell broke loose!
Four armed men suddenly rushed in, with guns drawn, forcing Anthony and
three other customers and the owner to the floor.
As a Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority Peace Officer, Anthony is
licensed to carry a service weapon, although he was off-duty at the time.
The four thugs started searching for valuables when one of them noticed
Anthony's firearm and screamed “gun!"—then he started pistol-whipping
Anthony in the face.
Despite the vicious attack, Anthony was able to draw his weapon—at the
exact same time one of the crooks started shooting at him.
During the exchange of gunfire, Anthony was shot in the shoulder, but
two of the robbers were also shot — and let's just say they won't be
robbing anyone anytime soon.
The other two cowardly criminals fled.
I'm happy to report that Anthony has healed up nicely, is back on duty,
and we are thrilled to acknowledge this Brooklyn hero here tonight!
Ladies and gentlemen, Anthony Presley!
Finally tonight I want to tell you about a truly amazing young man.
Cypress Hills resident Drew Champagnie —just seven-years-old at the
time—was getting dressed for school when his mother, Donna Gilkes,
collapsed.
Donna has diabetes, suffers from high blood pressure and has a history
of seizures.
When she fell to the floor and began shaking, Drew didn't miss a beat
[911 call audio plays.]
Drew's quick response and cool demeanor impressed everyone—from the 911
operator to the FDNY paramedics.
In fact, drew was later sworn in as a Junior Emergency Medical
Technician by the FDNY.
For thinking fast, staying calm and saving his mom—and proving that
heroes sometimes come in a small package— we are so pleased to honor Drew
and his mom, Donna Gilkes!
Ending:
And now, folks, the grand finale!
Everyone from Brooklyn has something special to offer —but only a few
have that "X-Factor."
Last year, 15-year-old Brian "Astro" Bradley beat out more
than 250,000 people who tried out for the TV show "X-Factor USA."
He made it to the show's top ten, with a healthy dose of Brooklyn
attitude.
Astro is headed for the stars— in fact, he recently signed a recording
contract with Epic Records.
His mom, Cascia Thompson, is with us tonight — but here's a word of
advice —don't look at her!'
Performing his hit "Stop Looking at My Mom," please welcome
Astro!
[Astro performs]
Thank you for being here, and enjoy the reception!
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