Brooklyn Bugle » Government

At 2014 Inauguration, Brooklyn Rises Within NYC Political Circles

Homer Fink — Thu, 02 Jan 2014 16:49:42 +0000

By Michael Randazzo

With their respective swearing-in ceremonies on New Year’s Day at City Hall, two Brooklyn politicos ascended to the peak of New York City government: Mayor Bill de Blasio, who hails from Park Slope, and Public Advocate Letitia James, who lives in Clinton Hill, a community she represented on the City Council for the last 10 years.

The “Brooklyn in the House” sentiment was displayed early and often throughout the day’s festivities. A large contingent from the borough made the commute to City Hall Park to join the assembled throngs grooving to the sounds of Alicia Keys/Jay Z’s “Empire State of Mind,” while the Mayor-elect and his family disembarked at the MTA’s Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall station, unmistakably suggesting that the new mayor is both a son of Brooklyn and a man of the people, riding the subway like millions of other New Yorkers.

The inauguration capped a stunning reversal of fortune for Mr. de Blasio, who, as little as four months ago, was given long odds on capturing the Democratic mayoral nomination. With an introduction by former President Bill Clinton, who stated that he shared Mr. de Blasio’s desire for a city that offered all its residents “shared prosperity, shared opportunities,” New York City’s 109th mayor—and first from Brooklyn since Abraham Beame—lauded the city’s rich progressive history that informs his thinking.

Promising that “The spark that ignites our unwavering resolve to do everything possible to ensure that every girl and boy, no matter what language they speak, what subway line they ride, what neighborhood they call home—that every child has the chance to succeed,” de Blasio laid out an agenda that was both ambitious and a dramatic departure from the policies of his outgoing predecessor, Mayor Bloomberg.

Mayor de Blasio was measured in his inaugural speech, but he firmly outlined the themes that have elevated the former New York City Councilmember and Public Advocate to the highest ranks of progressive politicians.

In declaring that a de Blasio administration won’t wait to attack the inequalities present in what Harry Belafonte in his opening remarks termed a “Dickensian justice system,” the new mayor promised to expand paid sick leave, find funding for universal pre-school education for children as well as after-school programs for middle school students, and reform controversial stop-and-frisk policies that fall disproportionally on African-American males.

Quoting iconic Mayor Fiorello H. La Guardia, the “Little Flower” beloved by Progressives, Mr. de Blasio countered the conservative ideology of trickle-down economics epitomized by the notion of the “rugged individualist” making his own success: “I, too,” said La Guardia, “admire the ‘rugged individual,’ but no ‘rugged individual’ can survive in the midst of collective starvation.”

Mr. de Blasio also cited Jacob Riis, Al Smith, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, whose Bible he swore the oath of office on, Roosevelt’s wife Eleanor, and others as “New Yorkers who challenged the status quo, who blazed a trail of progressive reform and political action, who took on the elite, who stood up to say that social and economic justice will start here and will start now.”

In closing, the man who is mayor of America’s largest city and is now clearly identified as progressivism’s standard-bearer promised that “… no matter what your story is—this is your city. Our strength is derived from you. Working together, we will make this One City. And that mission—our march toward a fairer, more just, more progressive place, our march to keep the promise of New York alive for the next generation. It begins today.”

In her inaugural speech, Ms. James, the first woman of color to hold city-wide office, was emphatic regarding her Brooklyn roots. She was prominently accompanied by Dasani, the petite heroine of the recent New York Times series about one family’s profound challenges in the NYC homeless shelter system. Dasani—who gained national prominence as a result of Andrea Elliott’s reporting—held the Bible that Ms. James was sworn in on by the Reverend Anthony Trufant of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Clinton Hill.

In her remarks, Ms. James was scathing in her assessment of the previous administration’s priorities, advocating “government that cares more about a child going hungry than a new stadium or a new tax credit for a luxury development ”—a clear repudiation both of the multiple sports stadiums (three) that were constructed during the Bloomberg years and the deplorable state of affairs in the NYC shelter system that resulted in Dasani and her six siblings and parents living in squalor at the Auburn Family Residence, a dilapidated shelter in Fort Greene.

Stating “This is the spirit of our city … New Yorkers get up each day and fight and when they’re knocked down they get up again and fight some more,” Ms. James added that “This is the tenacity it will take for our government to strike a blow against inequality and injustice and make our city work for working people again.”

The city’s new Public Advocate brought the house down with a brash Brooklyn warning of the consequences of New Yorkers not working together to create a more progressive and equitable vision for their city. “Of course, if working people aren’t getting their fair share, if our government isn’t securing the reforms New Yorkers were promised, you better believe that Dasani and I will stand up—that all of us will stand up—and call out anyone and anything that stands in the way of progress.”

Certainly that’s a message that resonates with all inhabitants of New York City, including those native to the home to its most powerful politicians.

With former Mayor David Dinkins looking on, and Dasani, the pint-sized heroine of The New York Times‘ “Invisible Child” series, holding the bible, Letitia James is sworn in as NYC Public Advocate by Reverend Anthony Trufant of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Clinton Hill. Credit: William Alatriste

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/64739

Brooklyn Heights Resident Diane Ravitch: Five Things Mayor de Blasio Should Do About Education

Homer Fink — Sat, 09 Nov 2013 19:14:33 +0000

The election of Bill de Blasio as mayor of New York is a “major setback” for the polices of Mike Bloomberg and George W. Bush says author/Brooklyn Heights resident Diane Ravitch in a new blog post. Saying that, de Blasio “understands the failure of the Bloomberg education policies,” she outlines 5 things the new mayor should do to make schools better.

They are:

First, he must restore the contiguous community school districts, each of which has a superintendent to oversee the condition and progress of the schools.
Second, the restoration of neighborhood schools would eliminate the byzantine “choice” process that Bloomberg initiated, whereby parents of children applying to middle school and high school visited schools, listed a dozen choices, and hoped for the best.
Third, de Blasio should assemble a team of expert educators—recruited from the ranks of the city’s most respected retired educators—who will take on a double assignment.
Fourth, de Blasio should follow through on his campaign promise to set higher expectations for the city’s charter sector. The policy of co-location does not work.
Fifth, and far from last, the new mayor should de-emphasize testing and accountability.

Ravitch adds that the key to success is finding a chancellor who agrees with de Blasio’s vision. She says that person, “should be an experienced educator who shares the mayor’s view that the needs of children really do come first and that data are far less important than the restoration of respect for learning, respect for educators, and the realization that a new day has dawned for public education in New York City.”

Read the full post here.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/63760

Brooklyn Heights Cinema Offers Discount to Furloughed Federal Workers

Claude Scales — Sat, 05 Oct 2013 03:40:35 +0000

Kenn Lowy, owner of the Brooklyn Heights Cinema, 70 Henry Street (corner of Orange) says he is offering a discount for furloughed federal government employees for the duration of the present government shutdown. If you show your federal employee ID, admission is $10. (The discount doesn’t apply to Friday afternoon matinee showings, for which the regular admission price is $7.)

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/62896

Judge Baynes To SUNY: Restore Services At LICH, Ditch The Goons

Homer Fink — Sat, 17 Aug 2013 12:35:37 +0000

Supreme Court Justice Johnny Lee Baynes has ordered SUNY to restore servies at LICH to the levels they were at on July 19. Baynes also said he would name an ombudsman for the hospital and added that the armed and unarmed guards SUNY has employed to patrol the grounds must go.

Brooklyn Eagle: The “standstill order” will keep LICH open for care until discussions between SUNY Downstate and a number of groups working to keep LICH open resolve the matter through negotiation. In his order, Justice Baynes said that he has been advised by the Special Referee “that the parties are engaged in ongoing good faith negotiations and hope to resolve the matter to their satisfaction.”
Twitter was buzzing long into the night with congratulations from patients, staff and representatives who have been working around the clock to keep the hospital open.

SUNY tried 2 padlock LICH, violated court orders in broad daylight. Now after court fight, huge step fwd 2 #SaveLICH: http://t.co/U8hwDpISoD
— Bill de Blasio (@BilldeBlasio) August 17, 2013

Congrats @nynurses @1199 @BilldeBlasio on today's #SaveLICH court order to restore services to 7/19 levels. pic.twitter.com/8BX34zMnBZ
— Brad Lander (@bradlander) August 16, 2013

@Esspring @nynurses @bradlander @StephenLevin33 @Desi30 @BilldeBlasio #savelich YES we Can! Yes we DID! LICH Saves Lives! Thanks all!
— Sue Raboy (@incasue) August 17, 2013

#saveLICH. Newest member of Patients for LICH sends shout out to ICU RNs. @oceanblueskies @andersen_nancy pic.twitter.com/21gWsHk7ci
— michelle green (@michellegreen70) August 17, 2013

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/61779

Don’t #SaveLICH And The Trip To The Emergency Room Gets Dangerously Longer

Homer Fink — Sun, 28 Jul 2013 20:45:07 +0000

NYC Public Advocate and Democratic candidate for mayor Bill DiBlasio tweeted out a map detailing the impact on door-to-ER travel time if Long Island College Hospital shuts down permanently.

In the words of a #SaveLICH demonstrator recently, “don’t get sick in this part of Brooklyn.”

Why #SaveLICH? Here's a look at the before & after distances to the nearest ER if you live in Cobble Hill, #Brooklyn: pic.twitter.com/CUvnYENmDR
— Bill de Blasio (@BilldeBlasio) July 25, 2013

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/61383

SUNY Sustainability Plan: Sell or Close LICH

Claude Scales — Thu, 30 May 2013 04:06:48 +0000

SUNY has released its Sustainability Plan, which focuses on preserving its teaching function at University Hospital of Brooklyn while seeking to share or transfer health care responsibilities with or to other Brooklyn hospitals and clinics and to home health care, according to The Wall Street Journal:

The proposal doesn’t guarantee that LICH will remain open, although SUNY officials and a nurses union representative said potential operators had stepped up to take over the struggling Cobble Hill institution. A Wall Street Journal analysis of the plan estimates SUNY would need to spend nearly $130 million for the LICH transfer.

NY1 quotes SUNY Downstate President John Williams as saying they are “talking to…five institutions” that may have an interest in taking over management of LICH. According to an analysis of the Sustainability Plan prepared by the Cobble Hill Association, the first mention of LICH in the Plan occurs in a footnote that says:

SUNY will review all responses received to the request for information and determine the most expeditious and financially responsible course of action to enable Downstate to exit from the operation of the Long Island College Hospital facility.

The Plan must be reviewed by the State Department of Health, which may approve it or send it back for revision.

Update: Homer’s cousin/former Cobble Hill Ass’n prexy Jeff Strabone analyzes the plan here:

Breakdown of the Sustainability Plan

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/59561

SUNY Withdraws Application To Close LICH; Will Seek “Sustainability Plan”

Homer Fink — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 18:52:06 +0000

After mounting community pressure and a unanimous vote from the NYC Council this week to support its existence, SUNY Downstate has officially withdrawn its application the the State Department of Health to close Long Island College Hospital. According to SUNY Downstate’s press release, forwarded to us by City Councilman Stephen Levin:
“The financial conditions at LICH remain unchanged. LICH’s continued financial losses still threaten the viability of Downstate Medical and our world-renowned medical school. We are withdrawing the closure plan so we can work with the State and other stakeholders on a sustainability plan for Brooklyn’s only medical school and to ensure quality medical care throughout the borough. The current legal proceedings prohibit this dialogue,” said Downstate President Dr. John F. Williams, Jr.
We will keep you advised of developments.
Tweets about “#savelich”
And this statement from our man in the NYS Senate Daniel Squadron:
It’s good news that SUNY is withdrawing its closure plan for LICH. Now there’s a real opportunity for a collaborative process that engages the community and local leaders on LICH’s future.
We’ve been making our voices heard loud and clear: LICH is vital to Brooklyn. And it’s clear we’re being heard.
As nearly the entire Brooklyn delegation wrote last week, it’s critical that any decision on LICH’s future includes community and legislative input. I continue to urge the state to form a working group to ensure those voices are a key part of the process.
This is a positive step on SUNY’s part and I urge the state and SUNY to continue to work with us to ensure that the needs of our community and all of Brooklyn are met.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/57954

St. Ann’s Warehouse Again Seeking Approval to Build in Tobacco Warehouse

Claude Scales — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 03:15:43 +0000

You may recall the lengthy legal battle over the St. Ann’s Warehouse theater’s attempt to build a new performance space inside the 19th century Tobacco Warehouse in the Fulton Ferry Historic District, which led to a court decision holding that the transfer of the Tobacco Warehouse space from Brooklyn Bridge Park had not been done according to law. This legal obstacle has now been overcome by a transfer of new land into the Park in exchange for the Tobacco Warehouse, and St. Ann’s has presented new plans (see image) for a performance space, community room, and lobby to be built inside the roofless shell of the Warehouse. You can read more about the planned new facility and see more images in Theatermania.
The design proposal by St. Ann’s was considered by the Executive Committee of Community Board 2 at its meeting this last week and will go to the full board on May 8.
Note: This post has been modified since original publication.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/57706

Vote For Local Project Funding From Councilman Steve Levin’s Kitty

Claude Scales — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 15:57:15 +0000

As we reported last October, Steve Levin, who represents our district in the City Council, has $1 million in discretionary funds that may be used to bankroll projects in the area. Back then he had a community meeting to solicit ideas; now he has a list of sixteen “viable” projects and is asking constituents to vote this week for up to five of these projects to receive funding. The top vote getters, totalling up to $1 million, will be funded. A list of projects on the ballot is here.
Of the projects listed, several would benefit Brooklyn Heights or the immediate area. One would provide funds for laptops and smartboards at MS 8, which serves local students. Another would improve lighting in the Atlantic Avenue access to Brooklyn Bridge Park. Two others would improve Cadman Plaza Park; one by rehabilitating a presently closed comfort station, and the other by installing weight-based fitness equipment.
To vote you must be a resident of the district and sixteen or older. You must vote in person at a designated polling place, and bring ID proving age and residence. These are the locations and hours of operation of the polling places in this area:
The Moxie Spot, 81 Atlantic Avenue (between Henry and Hicks), today (Monday, April 1) through Saturday, April 6, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Borough Hall, 289 Joralemon Street, Wednesday, April 3, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
PS 8, 37 Hicks Street (between Middagh and Poplar), Friday, April 5, 7:45 to 9:45 a.m.
101 Clark Street Community Room, 101 Clark Street (between Henry and Cadman Plaza West), Sunday, April 7, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/57000

SUNY Votes To Shut Down LICH

Homer Fink — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 20:14:27 +0000

The SUNY Board of Trustees voted to close Long Island College Hospital today in a public meeting held in Westchester:
NY Daily News: Shutting the 150-year-old Cobble Hill facility must be approved by the state Health Dept. and would take at least 90 days to complete. Layoff notices will go out to LICH’s 2000 employees “within days,” an official said.

“We are resource poor. We don’t have the financial sustenance to keep LICH open,” said SUNY chancellor Nancy Zimpher as SUNY trustees voted at the meeting held at state College at Purchase in Westchester.
More than 100 workers and former patients bused to the meeting by the nurses’ union chanted “The vote is fixed. Don’t close LICH” during the meeting.
SUNY Bd of trustees just voted once again to close LICH @ SUNY Purchase. twitter.com/ErinEBillups/s…
— Erin Billups (@ErinEBillups) March 19, 2013
#LICH @nynurses, caregivers & patients post-vote. “Are we discouraged?” “No!” #SaveLICH twitter.com/DanielSquadron…
— Daniel Squadron (@DanielSquadron) March 19, 2013
Tweets about “#savelich”
Top photo via @ErinEBillups

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/56511

Judge Rules SUNY Board Acted Illegally on LICH Closing

Claude Scales — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 02:40:40 +0000

The Times reports that New York Supreme Court Justice Johnny Baynes, who earlier extended a temporary restraining order against SUNY’s shutdown of Long Island College Hospital, has ruled that the SUNY board acted in violation of New York State’s open meetings law, and vacated the board’s decision to close LICH. According to the Times:
The trustees’ use of a vague notice, a “skeletal statement of purpose in the written agenda,” and the timing of a two-hour closed executive session on Feb. 7, the day before the public vote, “seems intentionally designed to shield the purpose of the meetings from the general public and obstruct the transparency required by the Open Meetings Law,” the decision said, noting that the trustees “are not unsophisticated.”
The story also quotes a SUNY spokesman as saying that “the ruling hinges on a procedural technicality” and that “the board Would move swiftly to fix the problem.” If, as expected, the board again votes to close LICH, the plan must then be submitted to the State Department of Health, which could refuse to approve the closure, as it did a plan by LICH’s former owner, Continuum Health Partners, to close LICH’s obstetrics and pediatrics departments just over four years ago.

Source: Cobble Hill Blog
http://cobblehillblog.com/archives/8216

Markowitz on LICH Closing: “A Serious Mistake”

Homer Fink — Sat, 09 Feb 2013 02:49:30 +0000

Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz testified before the Assembly Health Committee at Brooklyn Borough Hall today. Here’s the transcript of his testimony:
This morning’s unanimous vote by the board of SUNY Downstate to shut down LICH is simply unacceptable. Closing LICH jeopardizes the health and well-being of thousands of Brooklynites and will have serious effects on our economy.
LICH provides essential medical treatment for thousands of Brooklynites with chronic conditions and those seeking emergency care—without it, they will lose their lifeline.
Comptroller DiNapoli’s audit claims that LICH is underutilized, yet according to several reports, including a study by the New York Nurses Association, LICH averaged a 90 percent occupancy rate. And in 2010, LICH delivered more than 3,000 babies, and treated over 4,000 infants in its neo-natal unit and nearly 2,000 heart patients.
The statistics clearly show that LICH is not underutilized.
Furthermore, the New York Nurses Association also found that in 2012 there were well over 120,000 patient visits to LICH. Roughly 20 percent of those were emergency room visits, meaning without LICH, one out of every five patients would have had to go elsewhere, losing valuable time in the process. And in life threatening situations, every second counts.
And the hospital’s hard working staff has clearly proven their capabilities and dedication as they are essentially operating with half the required resources. The facility has been staffed and budgeted for no more than 250 beds, yet the hospital has more than 500 beds!
Sadly, these 2,000 dedicated doctors, nurses, and hospital staff are in danger of losing their jobs. Many of these employees live in Brooklyn, so closing LICH would have devastating economic consequences that would ripple across Brooklyn. And right now, the last thing we want to do is hurt our already fragile economy.
In the debate on LICH’s future, we cannot ignore the simple fact that the real estate value of the LICH property is estimated at $500 million dollars. It raises the serious concern that this hospital may be viewed more valuable closed than open. But whatever profits SUNY might gain from real estate will be more than offset by the loss in jobs and valuable medical service to our community.
It’s plain to see that closing LICH would be a serious mistake, so I call on SUNY’s board to rethink this rash decision and continue working to find alternative solutions that would ensure that Brooklynites do not lose critical medical services.
BHB file photo by Claude Scales
Tweets about “#savelich”

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/55136

Daniel Squadron On LICH Closing: ‘Our Fight Isn’t Over’

Homer Fink — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 20:59:28 +0000

State Senator Daniel Squadron has put up his dukes over Friday morning’s confirmation that Long Island College Hospital will be shuttered by the SUNY Board of Trustees and sold for real estate development.
In a statement, he insists: “Our fight isn’t over. As I said yesterday, SUNY’s plan essentially turns a $63 million state grant into a subsidy for a massive real estate deal that will cut essential services without any community benefit. It should be no surprise that our community and Brooklyn will feel looted with this result. DOH has an opportunity to ensure the needs of this community and all of Brooklyn are met—and that’s precisely what we will urge it to do.”
Squadron testified at Thursday’s public hearing, in which community leaders and locals bemoaned the closing of the 155-year-old facility, at 339 Hicks Street in Cobble Hill.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/55066

Sparks Fly At Thursday’s LICH Public Hearing

Homer Fink — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 02:09:28 +0000

At Thursday’s public hearing with the SUNY board in Midtown Manhattan, sparks were flying over the closing of Long Island College Hospital in Cobble Hill, with contentious exchanges between Councilman Brad Lander, SUNY Chairman Carl McCall and state Sen. Eric Adams.
Among accusations: whether SUNY’s acquisition of Long Island College Hospital was a transaction driven by real estate rather than medical considerations. Lander: “Was there a good faith effort to integrate LICH into the [larger medical] system, or was there some attention being paid to several hundred million dollars, possibly 500 million dollars, in real estate?”
After the hearing Thursday afternoon, the board is expected to act on a recommendation that it close LICH in a closed door session. The Brooklyn Daily Eagle is reporting on today’s events.
Tweets about “#savelich”

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/55016

Tale of the Tweets: Brooklyn Heights Library Hearing

Homer Fink — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 02:10:26 +0000

The Friends of the Brooklyn Heights Branch Library held a Trustees Meeting on Tuesday night addressing the impending sale of the building. As previously reported, it was announced on January 15 several BPL branches would be impacted as the system shifts to digital media and services. The current Brooklyn Heights’ Cadman Plaza branch will be closing and be “temporarily relocated.”
The Brooklyn Eagle was on at the hearing and live tweeted highlights. (The “star” of the evening was apparently Josh Nachowitz—pictured here—the library’s VP for Government and Community Relations.)
Photo via Brooklyn Daily

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/54669

Brooklyn’s Chanukah Menorah Beams At Borough Hall

Homer Fink — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:17:32 +0000

Monday evening, December 10, in celebration of Chanukah, Brooklyn Borough Prez Marty Markowitz joined Rabbi Aaron L. Raskin of Congregation B’nai Avraham and Rabbi Simcha Weinstein, along with Paul Amit, a parent from Kiddie Korner, and other officials to light Brooklyn’s 29-foot menorah in front of the Supreme Court building in Columbus Park/Borough Hall Plaza.
Musical entertainment was provided by Yanky Flusberg and Kiddie Korner, and Markowitz handed out Chanukah gelt candy coins to celebrants. (Photo: Kathryn Kirk)

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/52704

Follow-Up: Nate Silver Nails All 50 States In Prez Election Prediction

Homer Fink — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 21:52:56 +0000

After BHB reported Tuesday about Brooklyn Heights area resident/NY Times’ 538 Blog guru Nate Silver’s prediction that “President Obama has a 90.9% probability of winning reelection” and his profile in Tablet, it appears the statistician/strategist correctly called every single state in last evening’s election—after being needled for weeks by political commentators who ridiculed his method for forecasting election results.
Poynter.org rounds up news reports from the likes of Slate, Huffington Post, Forbes, Newsday, Time and more. (Photo: Penguin Press)

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/51537

Nor’easter Coming

Claude Scales — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 16:46:41 +0000

As if Sandy wasn’t enough, some more rough weather is expected starting tomorrow evening and going into Thursday. The 84th Precinct Community Council has these suggestions:
The National Weather Service is forecasting a Nor’Easter storm to hit our area late Wednesday night into Thursday bringing with it possible 40-50 mile per hour winds and 2-4″ of rain. Tidal surges of 4-5′ are also possible.
While New York has seen its share of these types of storms in the past, its arrival just about one week after Hurricane Sandy devastated parts of our City is cause for us to take pause and ensure some basic preparations are made – especially in tidal areas.
We ask that you ensure loose items or debris around your home are secured, and any tree limbs that were affected by Sandy be removed or secured.
Stock up on essential food and water supplies if possible, and fuel your vehicles when you can (we know the lines are long!)
Make a plan – ensure family members know how to contact each other and where to meet should communication be difficult.
Check your flashlights and make sure they have a supply of batteries.
If you use candles, use them with care – keep them away from any flammable objects (curtains etc) and never use them unattended – particularly when sleeping.
Do not use your stove or oven to provide heat – Carbon Monoxide is deadly and open flames are even more dangerous.
Most importantly, check on your neighbors – especially the elderly and infirm – now, more than ever, New Yorker’s need each other.
We are here if you needs us – our Community Affairs Bureau command center is open 24/7 at this time to answer any questions you may have. We can be reached at 646-610-5323 or 718-610-5323 or via email: communityaffairs@nypd.org
We’ll keep you informed about weather developments.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/51315

Nor’easter Coming; May Bring Snow

Claude Scales — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 16:46:41 +0000

As if Sandy wasn’t enough, some more rough weather is expected starting tomorrow evening and going into Thursday. The forecast: Showers in the morning becoming steady rain in the afternoon. High near 40F. Winds 25-35 mph. Rainfall near a half an inch. Evening: Windy with rain, then a mix of rain and snow late. Low 36F. Winds could occasionally gust over 50 mph. The 84th Precinct Community Council has these suggestions:
The National Weather Service is forecasting a Nor’Easter storm to hit our area late Wednesday night into Thursday bringing with it possible 40-50 mile per hour winds and 2-4″ of rain. Tidal surges of 4-5′ are also possible.
While New York has seen its share of these types of storms in the past, its arrival just about one week after Hurricane Sandy devastated parts of our City is cause for us to take pause and ensure some basic preparations are made – especially in tidal areas.
We ask that you ensure loose items or debris around your home are secured, and any tree limbs that were affected by Sandy be removed or secured.
Stock up on essential food and water supplies if possible, and fuel your vehicles when you can (we know the lines are long!)
Make a plan – ensure family members know how to contact each other and where to meet should communication be difficult.
Check your flashlights and make sure they have a supply of batteries.
If you use candles, use them with care – keep them away from any flammable objects (curtains etc) and never use them unattended – particularly when sleeping.
Do not use your stove or oven to provide heat – Carbon Monoxide is deadly and open flames are even more dangerous.
Most importantly, check on your neighbors – especially the elderly and infirm – now, more than ever, New Yorker’s need each other.
We are here if you needs us – our Community Affairs Bureau command center is open 24/7 at this time to answer any questions you may have. We can be reached at 646-610-5323 or 718-610-5323 or via email: communityaffairs@nypd.org
We’ll keep you informed about weather developments. Update: MSNBC reports that the storm may bring “a few inches” of snow and wind gusts up to 50 MPH to the New York City area. Coastal flooding is not expected to be nearly as severe as with Sandy. Still, the storm will likely hamper recovery efforts.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/51315

It’s Election Day! Where To Vote? Find Out Here!

Homer Fink — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 13:39:41 +0000

Polls are open today, Tuesday, November 6, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. To make sure you know where your polling place is, go to the City of New York Board of Elections website and plug in your address here at the top right of the homepage. It works! The site also offers iPhone and Android phone apps, if need be.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/51318

Councilman Steve Levin Demands Restoration Of G/L Subway Lines

Homer Fink — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 18:24:03 +0000

City Council Member Steve Levin, whose district includes Brooklyn Heights, is fuming that MTA has not yet restored G and L subway service following Hurricane Sandy. He tells The New York Observer, “Commuters along the G-train deserve the same service and respect that other lines get. And the same goes for the L-train.”
MTA has responded that fixing those lines is “our highest priority,” although it does not expect to restore service until some time this coming week, making these the last lines to resume even partial service.
“What I expect them to do is provide the fullest service possible,” Levin adds. “I expect that my constituents are treated the same as subway riders in every other neighborhood. It is a critical part of the city’s economy.” Levin represents Greenpoint and parts of the waterfront stretching from Williamsburg to Brooklyn Heights and into Park Slope. He is calling for shuttle bus service to help replace the absent trains.
Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz does not fully agree with Levin’s viewpoint. He says in the story, “The MTA has done a remarkable job of restoring more than 80% of the system under very difficult conditions, and making sure Brooklynites have as many transportation options to and from Manhattan, such as the bus bridge,” according to spokesman Mark Zustovich said. “Additionally, while we understand that the L line is heavily used, restoration of the J train provides at least some service close to Williamsburg and other areas served by the L.”
See more from the Observer story here.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/51294

Don’t Go Near the Water

Claude Scales — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:07:09 +0000

We’ve received word from Notify NYC that because flooding has allowed untreated wastewater to flow into local waterways, “direct contact with the Hudson River, East River, New York Harbor, Jamaica Bay and the Kill Van Kull for recreational activities such as swimming, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, or any other water activity that would entail possible direct contact with the water should be avoided until further notice.”
This brings to my mind the Beach Boys’ song “Don’t Go Near the Water,” performed when my old Lion’s Head drinking buddy Blondie Chaplin (left in photo above) was with the group. Video of the song after the jump.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/50884

Brooklyn Chamber Offers Space For Displaced Member Businesses

Homer Fink — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 19:14:59 +0000

The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce has set up a resource guide with information and phone numbers that borough businesses may contact for assistance and emergency loans in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. It is also offering temporary work space at its offices through the end of the year for Chamber members displaced by the storm. The location: 25 Elm Place. Contact the Chamber at 718-875-1000.
Carlo A. Scissura, Chamber President & CEO, says, “If Chamber members need help filling out applications, do not hesitate to come to our offices or call us. Together we can help businesses rebuild bigger and better and continue to make Brooklyn the wonderful place we all know it is.”

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/50819

84th Precinct Hurricane Advisory

Claude Scales — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 17:55:34 +0000

Capt. Maximo Tolentino, new Commanding Officer of the 84th Precinct, has released this advisory:
1340 Hours: In connection with hurricane Sandy, staffing at the 84th Precinct has been consolidated into 2-12 hour tours, allowing for better coverage during this emergency. Since yesterday, 0700 hours, 84 Precinct personnel have been continuously visiting all areas looking for dangerous conditions and taking corrective action as necessary. Residential and commercial locations located in Zone “A” have all been visited. Public announcements directing an evacuation are also being made and recommended. There is 1 shelter, located at 285 Jay Street, confines of the 84th Precinct, that is currently housing approximately 35 people. There is room for upwards of 600 People. All critical care patients have been visited. If you elect not to evacuate, I recommend that for the duration of the storm that you stay indoors. Any emergency should be called into 911. Stay dry- stay safe.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/50259

D.I. Mark DiPaolo Leaving 84th Precinct Command for New Assignment

Claude Scales — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 03:27:56 +0000

Deputy Inspector Mark DiPaolo, who has served as Commanding Officer of the 84th Precinct for the past four years, is being reassigned by the NYPD to command the 90th Precinct, in Williamsburg. His successor at the 84th will be Captain Maximo Tolentino.
D.I. DiPaolo offered these parting words:
Though I am excited about the challenges and tasks of [my new] assignment , I would be remiss in not admitting that I will miss the Precinct and community that I have called home for the last four years. I would like to thank all the members of the community for their past cooperation and help in reducing crime. I will miss the bonds and relationships that were formed. I truly appreciated the partnership created that is needed to be successful in running a Police Precinct. I would sincerely like to thank members of the community for the their sympathy and support during the tragic event that took the life of P.O. Alain Schaberger.
In closing, I am comforted by the fact that the 84th Precinct is getting a great choice in Captain Maximo Tolentino as its new Commanding Officer. I have no doubt that with the assistance of Precinct personnel and this wonderful community there will be continued success in our goal to always make this community a safer place to work and live.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/49622

Council Member Levin Wants Your Advice on How to Spend $1 Million

Claude Scales — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 03:06:30 +0000

City Council Member Stephen Levin has a kitty of $1 million in “discretionary capital funding” to spend in his district, which includes Brooklyn Heights, and he’s asking his constituents for advice on how to spend it. So, he’s called a meeting fro Wednesday evening, October 17 (by the time you read this, that probably means “this evening”) from 6:00 to 9:00, at St. Francis College, 180 Remsen Street, to hear your ideas.
According to the Brooklyn Heights Association:
Examples of the type of eligible project that might result from the participatory budgeting effort are: buying new library collections, new playground equipment for a park, computers for schools, a school or community space renovation, new street furniture (trash cans, benches, bike racks, street lamps), public art, intersection safety improvements.
The “viable” projects that come from this and similar assemblies will be put on a ballot, and all residents of the council district 16 or older will be allowed to vote on them. Those receiving the most votes, up to a total of $1 million, will be assured of a place on the City’s forthcoming capital budget to be adopted next spring.

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/49334

Cobble Hill Association’s Fall General Meeting: Monday, October 29

Homer Fink — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 01:02:26 +0000

The Cobble Hill Association will hold its Fall General Meeting on Monday, October 29 at 7:30 p.m., at Long Island College Hospital, 339 Hicks Street. Two guest speakers will be present: John F. Williams, MD, EdD, MPH and the new President of SUNY Downstate Medical Center; and Tony Lewis, new CEO of the Cobble Hill Health Center.
CHA notes, “As always, there are many items to discuss in the neighborhood, from recently approved extended hours in our local park to safety enhancements on our local streets to ongoing repairs to our beloved Christ Church. For updates on these items as well as a presentation from representatives of Long Island College Hospital, please join us. All are welcome!”

Source: Cobble Hill Blog
http://cobblehillblog.com/archives/7918

Cobble Hill Residents Request Later Park Closure To Avoid Parking Tickets

Homer Fink — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 23:10:09 +0000

Neighborhood residents are calling for a pushback on the closing time of Cobble Hill Park in an effort to reduce traffic tickets, following what the Brooklyn Paper deems “a mini-ticket blitz that (leaves) late-night visitors facing costly summonses.” A burgeoning group is fighting to extend the park’s curfew from 9 to 10 p.m. amid complaints that cops are issuing $250 tickets for “harmless after-hours activities,” bounded by Congress, Clinton & Henry streets and Verandah Place.
Community Board 6 recently met with members of the Cobble Hill Association to discuss the issue, insisting that later hours for the park would decrease the number of superfluous summonses. Detective Paul Grudzinski of the 76th Precinct counters, “We’re not looking to storm in 5 minutes after closing, then start writing tickets, but we have to enforce the rules fairly and across the board”—although he said that he supports the later curfew, which would also put the park in line with nearby Carroll Park’s hours. Read the full Brooklyn Paper story here. (Photo: Chuck Taylor)

Source: Cobble Hill Blog
http://cobblehillblog.com/archives/7903

Brooklyn’s Community Board 2 Meeting: Wednesday, September 12

Homer Fink — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 19:57:24 +0000

Brooklyn’s Community Board 2 will hold its next general meeting Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at 6 p.m. in the third-floor auditorium of The Brooklyn Hospital Center, 121 DeKalb Avenue at St. Felix Street. The meet will include presentations from Dr. Richard Becker, President & CEO of The Brooklyn Hospital; and Dr. Stacy De-Lin, with the Committee of Residents and Interns at the Save Our Safety Net Campaign. Other items include the Chairperson’s Report from John Dew, District Manager’s Report from Robert Perris, as well as an Open Session for community issues.

Source: Cobble Hill Blog
http://cobblehillblog.com/archives/7816

Brooklyn Heights ‘Signs’ Off On DOT’s Mixed-Case Lettering Mandate

Homer Fink — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 11:30:53 +0000

Street signs in Brooklyn Heights will soon be following the letter of the law. The Federal Highway Administration has mandated that your tax dollars be spent on replacing 250,000 capital-letter street signs in New York City with mixed-case—specifically utilizing a condensed version of the Clearview typeface (licensed as ClearviewHwy).
So far, about 11,000 street name signs have been replaced around NYC’s five boroughs to meet national standards in typography and surface reflectivity, according to The New York Times—including some along Brooklyn Heights’ Montague Street. Brown historical signs will maintain their color.
Clearview was created in the 1990s by designers Donald Meeker and James Montalbano, working with the Thomas D. Larson Pennsylvania Transportation Institute and the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. “With its crisp, clean design, Clearview represents exactly what its name suggests,” says city transportation commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan. “Whether through signs, markings or sidewalks, we’re bringing clarity and simplicity to street design.”
Developer Montalbano recalls about two years ago crossing the East River from Brooklyn—where he lives—coming off the Brooklyn Bridge and seeing a sign for “Chinatown” with an arrow in Clearview. About a month ago, he also noticed Clearview signs on Montague Street in the Heights. “It’s very exciting,” he told NY Times. “We’ve been working on this project for a very long time.”
A number of the new signs replace those scheduled for routine maintenance, as well as when streets are under repair or reconstruction. “But sometimes, the new signs appear to have replaced perfectly serviceable older signs with all-uppercase lettering,” the Times notes, which has meant of tirade of criticism directed toward the Highway Administration, an agency of the federal Department of Transportation. As a result, DOT has since eased or eliminated some 46 deadlines and/or mandates for dutiful compliance.
(Graphic/New York Times)

Source: Brooklyn Heights Blog
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/45877